THE EMPIRE STRIKES BACK

There was a thing called the “Curse of the Bambino”. The Red Sox traded the Babe for cash in order to fund a play out of all things. Because of this the Red Sox didn’t win a world series since 1918 and the Yankees have won 26. BUT in this decade the tides have turned. Since the reverse of the curse the Sox have had the Yanks’ number. They have won two World Series and there continues to be ten year old Yankee fans that haven’t seen a title.

The 2009 season was a little more of the same. The Red Sox won the first 8 meetings of the season, rudely welcoming the Yankees into their new ball park. Since the all-star break however the Bombers are on a roll and clearing the way for an October run. The Red Sox have been more like the Dead Sox the second have of the year relinquishing their division lead to the pinstripes.

This weekend was the killer blow. The Yankees walked off with a sweep in a four game series with the Sox giving themselves a comfortable lead in the division. They have the Sox reeling now losing 6 straight games leaving them tied with the Texas Rangers for the AL Wild Card. With that said the Sox will still be relevant come playoff time as always. And as we have seen in recent years, once you’re in…anything can happen.

Don’t look now but the Dodgers have fallen and the Yanks now hold the league’s best record. This series with the Sox says a lot about this team, they overcame stellar pitching performances from Boston and came out on top. This team is built to win in the postseason with a high-octane offense, a great 1-2-3 punch on the mound and a solid bullpen. They may be the team to beat in the American League come October baseball. But let’s not crown them just yet, there is a lot of baseball to be played until we can go ring fitting for number 27.

Crabby Crabtree

Yesterday, Michael Crabtree’s advisor, and cousin, David Wells, told the press that Crabtree would be willing to sit out the 2009 NFL season and re-enter the draft in 2010 if the 49ers don’t offer him the contract he “deserves”. Wells furthered his argument by saying that Crabtree should be paid like a top 5 pick, since he is top 5 talent, and should make at least what Raiders rookie wide-out Darrius Heyward-Bey is making ($38.25M/5YR). Here are 6 reasons that Crabtree is in the wrong on this one.



1. Crabtree is coming off two of the best college football seasons for a WR that the nation may have ever seen. However, he’s also coming of a hairline fracture in his foot, meaning that the 49ers took a bit of a risk on him, and therefore should not have to pay him as much.

2. His 40-yard dash time is not nearly the same as the lighting quick Heyward-Bey’s. While that does not make Bey a better receiver, speed is a crucial part of NFL evaluations. Crabtree’s speed has always worried some scouts.

3. Wells states that Crabtree is top 5 talent, except that he’s not; because if he was, he would have been taken in the top 5 overall. Crabtree fell to number ten in the draft and therefore should be paid like so.

4. If Crabtree sits out this season, he can do all the weight training he wants, he will never be in the football shape he is now, and that will cost him a more fruitful career perhaps.

5. As a finance minor, I’ve learned the time value of money. Money now, if invested right, could mean even more money later for Crabtree.

6. His agent is named David Wells. Sure, I know it’s his cousin, but the guy shares a name with the drunk pitcher for the Yankees in the late 1990’s. Coincidence?

Sure some of these reasons are better than others, but the main point is that Crabtree needs to sign and get in camp. This is not just to benefit the Niners, but to benefit his career as well. He has to potential to be one of the most electrifying receivers in the game right out of the gate; it would be such a waste to see him sitting in the stands instead.

GIANT MONEY

For the longest time I have considered that Eli Manning is the most overrated quarterback in the NFL and now, as of yesterday he is now the most overpaid. Yes, it is true that he had won a Super Bowl but does that justify the $97.5 million extension that he received on Wednesday. That makes him the third highest player in the NFL and second highest quarterback behind Carson Palmer.

Let's try to rationalize this for a second. I am going to attempt in the next 7 seconds to name all of the quarterbacks that i would want over Eli Manning...Ready, Set, Go! Brady, Peyton Manning, Cutler, McNabb, Roethlisberger, Ryan, Hasselback, Brees, Rivers, DONE! Okay, there may be other QBs that i would still take over him that I couldnt think of in the time but that would at most make him the tenth best quarterback in the league. He is getting paid as the 2nd.

I am not trying to diminish the Giants Super Bowl by the following remarks because their victory was one of the greatest BUT Eli was not the reason they won it. Let's look at it the end of that Super Bowl. Patriots cornerback Asante Samuel drops a gimme interception which would have ended the game. Then the Pats missed another opportunity later in the drive. Kudos to Eli for escaping the pocket but "The Catch" by David Tyree was all Tyree and very little Eli. Eli threw it up blindly into double coverage and if it wasnt for the adhesivness of Tyree's helmet, the Pats go undefeated.

My tirade maybe mean and coming out of bias as an Eagles fan but there is no reason that Eli deserves or needs a million dollars more than his brother Peyton. He hasnt been known to show up in the clutch (reference last years second round exit to the Eagles). I will admit that I dont think McNabb deserved his contract either this offseason. In this economic do we really need to throw around all of this cash. Just read Michael's post from yesterday...

So for now, congratulations Eli on the new deal. Now its time to play to the level of the contract.

It was the Best of Times, It was the Worst of Times...

Last year on September 29, 2008, the White Sox beat the Tigers in Chicago, by a score of 8-2, in the only MLB game played that day. Why bring up this game? Because it occurred on the same day that the DOW fell 777 points, and perhaps changed baseball for the foreseeable future.

This September day kicked off the recession that our nation, and the world, has fallen into. It can be seen on the news daily, in unemployment rates, and in the political realm. However, it can be seen in sports as well, in particularly baseball. Sure, free agents didn’t get the millions they thought they could this past off-season, as front offices became penny-pinchers, but I’m talking about something bigger: the growing discrepancy between teams in baseball based on payroll.

ESPN’s Buster Olney mentioned yesterday in his blog that out of the top 8 teams based on payroll, 7 of them would make the playoffs as off today (sorry Mets). This is a far cry from a few years ago, when small market clubs like the Marlins won the Series, and the A’s and Twins made the playoffs in consecutive years. All the current divisional leaders (again, aside from the Mets) respectively lead their division in payroll, while 4 of the 6 cellar teams (aside from the Nationals and the Royals) are respectively last in payroll for their division.

There are a few reasons for this. Firstly, is the outrageous contracts for drafted players. Currently, first overall pick Stephen Strasburg is looking for a contract of $50M/5yrs. The entire Nationals payroll this season is $61M! Stephen will walk in a few weeks and re-enter the 2010 draft, only to have the same saga next season. So while losing teams do still get first-crack at young talent, they are becoming less and less able to sign their prospects.

Secondly, small market teams have been hit hardest with attendance this season. According to Forbes, eight of last season’s top ten in income are in this season’s top ten in payroll. This discrepancy should expand, as these top teams will continue to make more due to TV contracts, bigger named players, and playoff appearances, while small market teams, who can’t put a competitive team on the field, should see income go down, leading to a bad cycle of lack of talent and money.

There are probably a few other factors that are perpetuating this divide as well, but the message is, until the economy recovers and baseball, in addition, does something more drastic than luxury tax to equal the playing field, the competitiveness in baseball may dwindle.

Many claim that baseball is a business, and that is most definitely true. However, unlike most businesses, you do not compete to drive others out of the market, as one can not survive without the others. So take note Yankees, Cubs, and Red Sox…you need the Marlins, Twins, and A’s of the world. While a cap is too drastic, a payroll discrepancy of $166M (between the Yankees and Marlins) is ludicrous.

So hopefully, the next year or so will provide a turnaround: both for America and the American pastime.

ARENA SET FOR DEMOLITION

I am sorry to interupt Shark Week for all of you but I have to announce that these poor economic times seem to have claimed its next victim. Reports have surfaced that the Arena Football League will fold after 21 seasons of play. The AFL launched in 1987 and have had varying levels of success ending with a contract deal with ESPN and ABC.

The AFL was a really fun league. It was a casual league to follow, in which you are suppose to have fun and a stress-free afternoon. It is the only league in the country in which its owners were more famous than the coaches and players. The owners included Ron Jaworski, Jon Bon Jovi and John Elway. It also had the coolest team monikers such as the VooDoo, Desperados, Sabercats, Blaze, Gladiators and Storm. The AFL featured players that made minor league money and drove to the game in worse cars than the fans. It showcased offense and points and basketball score like outcomes. If a runningback broke off a 60 yard run, he has run too far and will find himself in the seventh row. The shortened field intesified the bone-crunching hits which made for some really fun TV. It even made its own EA Sports video game in the mid 2000s.

The AFL provided me with one of my favorite sporting events that I have ever attended. I went to the divisional round playoff game between the Philadelphia Soul and the New York Dragons. The final three minutes of the game had three touchdowns and a last second win for the Soul. My Soul went on to beat Michael's San Jose Sabercats in the final Arena Bowl. It was the most watched "minor-league" event for television ever.

But since that game the league has had a rough go of it. Two days before the Arena Bowl the commisioner and creater of Arena football David Baker resigned from his post leaving the leauge in confusion. During the next offseason the league decided to close up shop for the 2009 season to redraft the finances. And now when it seemed like 2010 was a possibility the Arena Football League looks like it is closing down for business. Along the way the AFL gave us cheap and affordable entertainment while being exciting on the field. It gave football fans something to do in the NFL offseason to scratch their itch for good ole' gridiron fun.

Hot August Nights

It is now August, probably one of the worst months of the year for most. Millions of kids nationwide will be heading back to school this month. There is no holiday during the month. It is probably one of the hottest months of the year, and there are no really good sporting events either. Football doesn’t kick off until September and baseball doesn’t getting cooking again until then either. So here is a list of the top 3 things in sports to look for during the month of August.

3. European soccer leagues kick off their seasons come mid-August. With big time summer transfers of Cristiano Ronaldo and Kaka, Real Madrid looks to be the clear front runner in La Liga (Spain), however, FC Barcelona is the reigning UEFA Champions League champ. The Premiership is up for grabs after Manchester United lost some talent this off-season; however, Sir Alex Ferguson should have a good lineup on the pitch. Finally, a Beckham-less AC Milan looks poised to capture a Serie A title in Italy.

2. The MLB playoff race should begin to shape up this month. Currently 18 teams are battling it out for a total of 8 spots. By the end of August, roughly four teams should be weeded out of the mix, leaving 14 teams battling in September. My predictions: Tampa Bay (pitching hasn’t been what it was last year), Milwaukee (worst team in July due to many factors), Marlins (won’t be able to keep pace with the Phils), and Minnesota (great young lineup, but not enough pitching).

1. There are still 11 first round draft picks unsigned in the NFL. Hopefully we will see some of these rooks sign soon so that they can get in to camp and start practicing with the team prior to the NFL kickoff the first week of September. Some of the big names remaining unsigned include: Michael Crabtree (San Francisco), Jeremy Maclin (Philadelphia), Knowshon Moreno (Denver), Andre Smith (Cincinnati), and Tyson Jackson (Kansas City). All of these guys should provide some spark for their teams this season.

So while you sit around on hot August nights, watch some baseball. During the afternoon, watch some of the NFL camps on NFL network, and if you’re up early, catch the Premiership on Sky Sports. Enjoy the final weeks of the ’09 summer!

THE BEST OF THE REST

Let's be honest, in our quest for some of the best sports movies of all time we have neglected those that dont fall under the shroud of the four major sports. The drama often falls under those sports less thought of. They often feature a man v. man affair in which it is do or die, you win the race or you don't and there is no blaming your teammates, because you are on your own. So here it is the dramatic conclusion of Movie Week here on SportsNight with the Best of the Rest.

SEABISCUIT

This inspiring and moving story tells the Depression Era triumph of the horse Seabiscuit. The movie demonstrates how this one horse not only brings hope to fans in these trying times, but tells how this horse brings together the owner, jockey, trainer and everyone else involved. It has a couple great scenes of Toby McGuire alone riding the horse, and one gets an insight into how important the chemistry between a horse and a jockey truly is. A great movie.

Quote: "You know everyone thinks we got this broken down horse and fixed him. But we didn't. He fixed us. Every one of us. And I guess in a way, we fixed each other, too."

CADDYSHACK

What do you get when you mix, Rodney Dangerfield, Billy Murray, Chevy Chase, a gopher and golf…one heck of a movie. Danny Noonan is a young caddy who tries to sure up his future by getting a caddying scholarship. Al Czervik is a rude, and overly eccentric millionaire who has interests in purchasing Bushwood. Judge Smails shows a quick disliking towards Al and soon there is a conflict between the Judge and Al, the Judge and Danny, and even between the Judge and Ty Webb the charming golfer who is slowly helping Danny figure out his real goals. On the outside of this is Carl Spackler the Golf Course Grounds keeper, who's goal is eliminate a rampaging gopher who is chewing up holes throughout the golf course.

Quote:

---“License to kill gophers by the government of the United Nations. Man, free to kill gophers at will. To kill, you must know your enemy, and in this case my enemy is a varmint. And a varmint will never quit - ever. They're like the Viet Cong - Varmint Cong. So you have to fall back on superior intelligence and superior firepower. And that's all she wrote” Carl Spackler.

---“IT’S IN THE HOLE!!!” Carl Spackler.

COOL RUNNINGS

A movie that combines John Candy, bobsleding, and the word "mon" (man), has to be a hit right? We'll this comedy sure was, and was based on the true story of the Jamaican bobsled team that went to the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Will they do not end up winners, the team bonds together as brothers and brings pride and some Winter Olympic glory to island in the caribbean. It combines comedy, pride and sport to make one of the funniest PG movies around!



Quote:

"Our Father, who art in Calgary, Bobsled be thy name. Thy kingdom come, gold medals won, on Earth as it is in Turn Seven. With Liberty and Justice for Jamaica and Haile Selassie. Amen."

ROCKY

In 1975, virtually unknown actor Sylvester Stallone wrote the script for Rocky in three days after going to a boxing match between the underdog Chuck Wepner (Rocky) and the great Muhammad Ali (Creed). Inspired by this unique fight, Stallone captured and created on of the most beloved characters in movie history.

Rocky is the only movie that we have covered this week that won the Oscar for Best Picture. Stallone plays the bum from Philly, Rocky Balboa. The southpaw slugger was at “rock” bottom and was an out of shape club fighter with a dead end career. Then luck finds him when showboat boxing champ Apollo Creed decides to give an unknown a shot at the title. Creed played by former NFL player, Carl Weathers who delivers a great Muhammad Ali impression.

Rocky knows he can’t beat the champ but he declares that winning is taking everything he’s got and going the distance. He has unorthodox training routines such as pounding meat, lifting logs and of course running up the “Rocky Stairs” (Philadelphia Art Museum). But nothing is more inspiring to him than the support of his love interest Adrian. He goes the distance and gives hope to all of the underdogs in the world. He came at the perfect time for the country that was still in despair, he still to this day personifies the city of Philadelphia. Who hasn’t run up the steps?

Quote: “Yo Adrian!”

...And Shoot!

The hardwood has not been the stage for many classic sports movies, yet it has produced probably one of the best ones ever. While recent basketball movies have focused on the flair that goes with the game, these three films focus on fundamentals, passion, and teamwork.

3. Space Jam
Yes this movie does have all three of the things that I mentioned. The Looney Toons played well together, helped develop their own talent and had the passion to win against the Monstars. This movie also combines the talent and leadership of Michael Jordan with the hilariousness that is Bill Murray.

Quote: Bill! We're on defense!
Whoa hoa hoa! I don't play defense!

2. Glory Road
In 1966, a small school from Texas accomplished the unfathomable. Not only did they beat Adolf Rupp’s legendary Kentucky Wildcats to win the NCAA D1 Basketball Title, but they did so with a starting lineup of all black players. Did I mention it was in the 1960’s? Coach Don Haskins pursuit of talent, left him blind to the color of his recruits, allowing him to create an outstanding team. Josh Lucas takes on the role of Don Haskins, and does a good job portraying the legendary coach. It’s a movie about how the court brought equality.

Quote: “They're trying to take our dignity away from us.
Your dignity's inside you. Nobody can take something away from you, you don't give them”

1. Hoosiers
Far and away one of the greatest sports classics of all time, regardless of sport. It tells the story of a small Indiana high school and town coming together to make it to the state championship game. The journey helps to define character for a number of players, including the assistant coach, Shooter, who happens to be the town’s local drunk. In one of the most classic scenes, as they arrive at the huge arena for the state championship game, Coach Dale, played by Gene Hackman, measures the dimensions of the court to show that they are the same as the court they play at back home in Hickory. It’s just a classic.

Quote: If you put your effort and concentration into playing to your potential, to be the best that you can be, I don't care what the scoreboard says at the end of the game, in my book we're gonna be winners.

Box Off-ICE Hits

Over the years hockey has had a flare for the dramatic. But making a quality hockey movie takes impressive action shots, which are not always easy to come by. That is why there have been very few hockey movies that are worth noting. With that said it was still hard to break it down to the three best. Here we go the best movies of all time for the coolest, fastest sport out there…

3. Mystery, Alaska
The setting is a small town in Alaska who lives, breaths and eats hockey. Only the best of the town played for the team. Team captain and town sheriff, Russell Crowe leads Mystery on the ice against the opposition as well as winter’s vicious bite. After Sports Illustrated comes to Mystery to write a human interest piece the team ends up getting the opportunity to play the NHL’s New York Rangers as a publicity stunt. The town and team rally together to welcome the NHL’s best. In the biggest day of their lives Mystery pushes the Rangers to the brink. It is a really fun movie that shows some of the hockey culture that the average person isn’t able to see.

Quote: “Look, I play hockey and I fornicate, because those are the two best things to do when it’s cold outside.” Skank Marden

2. Miracle
Unarguably the best moment in sports history was when the 1980 United States Olympic team shocked the world when they defeated the Soviet Union in the Medal Round of the Winter Olympics. “Miracle” is the movie that follows the ragity bunch of college kids who are united under the tyrannical yet inspiring coach Herb Brooks. He taught them to believe in themselves and he changed the way that the US played hockey and it was the team who taught the world to change the way they think. This movie captures the drama of the time period as they show the escalation of the Cold War and the despair that accompanied it. It showed how thirsty the country was for a victory, a sliver of hope. Unlike other sports movies when they teach actors how to play the sport, “Miracle” took hockey players who could act. This made the action shots very realistic. The climax of the movie is Herb Brooks’ speech before the game. It sends chills up my spine every time I watch it. The movie ends with one of the most memorable calls in sports history, the call by Al Michaels, “Do you believe in MIRACLES?! YES!”

Quote:
Eruzione: “Mike Eruzion, Winthrop, Massachusetts.”

Brooks: “Who do you play for?”

Eruzione: “I play for, the United States of America!”


1. Slapshot
If you have ever made of hockey with the cliché, “I went to a fight and a game broke out” it is probably Slapshot that you are referencing. The ultimate hockey movie features hockey, girls, fights and comedy. The Chiefs are a two bit minor league hockey team in desperate need of a winning season. Head coach and captain Reggie Dunlop leads the Chiefs to a great season behind the Hanson brothers. The triplet terrors physically dominated every opponent and became the face of the movie. In the Federal League championship game the Chiefs had to take on the murderer’s row of the Syracuse Bulldogs including Dr. Hook and Ogie Oglethorpe. The team wins because of some unorthodox means that will never be forgotten. You can’t mess with slapshot.

Quote: No quotes available that satisfy FCC regulations.

TRIBUTE TO THE GODS: The Mighty Ducks
You have to love the fun the Ducks have. As they always face the same predicament and then come to the idea that hockey should be FUN and then of course win.

Quote: “QUACK, QUACK, QUACK---GO DUCKS!”

Diamond to Silver Screen

Some of the best sports movies of all time have their setting on the baseball diamond. Being a slow game, baseball is easy to film, seems to take on a metaphor for life quite easily, and happens to be the American pastime. So with so many movies to choose from, it was quite hard to pick the top three.

3. Bull Durham
The late 80’s classic features Crash Davis, a washed up minor league catcher, mentoring stud pitching prospect Calvin Laloosh. It emphasizes the crud yet essential part of the game, as well as highlights the ruggedness that is minor league baseball. Crash Davis, played by Kevin Costner, is the kind of teammate you wish you had, and Annie Savoy, played by Susan Sarandon, is the kind of fan you wish you always had watching you on the field. It’s comedic, yet provides some serious insight into what the game of baseball is like away from the Majors.

Quote: “This is a very simple game. You throw the ball, you catch the ball, you hit the ball. Sometimes you win, sometimes you lose, sometimes it rains.”

2. The Natural
Roy Hobbs, the best there ever was. The story, based on a novel, tells of Hobbs’, played by Robert Redford, big league story, as he takes the Majors by storm as a 35-year old outfielder. The movie’s real legacy is in the title. It portrays a man’s love for the game and how gracefully he plays. It emphasizes that baseball is a part of natural heritage and that it should be a part of our youth, as there are a few scenes of Hobbs as a boy and him playing catch with his boy. The final scene leaves the crowd in “ahh”, as Hobbs hits a winning home run that smashes out the lights. Literally.

Quote: “Go pick me out a winner Bobby.”

1. Field of Dreams
This movie is a very hard one to describe, as it is multi-faceted, however its theme is not. Baseball is a passion. It can be seen in Ray Kinsella, played by Kevin Costner, as he tears down a few acres of his corn farm to create the most pristine baseball diamonds that Iowa has ever seen. It can be seen in Shoeless Joe Jackson, played by Ray Liotta, as he believes that this field is heaven. It can be seen in “Moonlight” Graham, in the way he plays the kid as a mere youth. Also, its got a few monologues from James Earl Jones…Awesome!

Quote: “People will come Ray. The one constant through all the years, Ray, has been baseball. America has rolled by like an army of steamrollers. It has been erased like a blackboard, rebuilt and erased again. But baseball has marked the time. This field, this game: it's a part of our past, Ray. It reminds of us of all that once was good and it could be again. Oh... people will come Ray. People will most definitely come.”

There are many others that could have been chosen, so here is a list of honorable mentions:

The Sandlot – “Oh yeah, the Great Bambino. Of course! I thought you said the Great Bambi.”

Little Big League – “If I owned the Twins, I wouldn't even show up here. I'd just hire a bunch of scientists to do my homework. I mean, if you're rich you don't have to be smart. That's the whole beauty of this country.”

Eight Men Out – “Say it ain't so, Joe. Say it ain't so.”

A League of Their Own – “Are you crying? There’s no crying in baseball

GRIDIRON'S GREATEST

If you look at the best sports movies of all time you will find that not many of them take place on the gridiron. Hollywood has churned out some great football movies but they can’t seem to compete with the best in other sports. This could be attributed by a number of factors. Unlike baseball, boxing and basketball, football action shots are hard to make look realistic. They end up being too violent and not believable. Then the characters all seem to be the same. The quarterback is the main character, typically with a love interest while the receiver has blinding speed but is plagued by horrible hands. Then of course there is the bloodthirsty giant of a linebacker and a showboat running back who “needs his touches”.

In order to overcome these stereotypes of football movies the producers have had to invest into dramatic off the field plot lines in which the team has to overcome enormous odds, football or otherwise to become victorious. Because of these themes the moments on the field are intensified by the conflicts that the characters have to tackle off of it.

In real life, football provides us with dramatic moments more than any other sport. Maybe because of the physicality, the awareness that is either “YOU” or “ME” that makes the sport a pleasure to see. Last second drives and time-expiring field goals. In no other sport can a person sacrifice his body for the good of the team like they can in football. Football more so than baseball or basketball a person can make up for their lack of skill with a tremendous amount of heart. It is the struggle that makes us watch, the hope that the runt can become a hero and whether a David can conquer a Goliath. So we begin our Movie Week here on SportsNight with the great game of football.

#3 FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS
Friday Night Lights takes the audience into small town USA where football is everything. Many of us can’t imagine our lives peaking, our fame climaxing in high school but the kids of Permian High School have to live with that harsh reality. This movies shines light on the pressure that these high schoolers have to deal with. Through the thick of the season the players begin to understand the shocking reality that there is more to life than high school football.

QUOTE TO REMEMBER: “Being perfect is being able to look someone in the eye and know that you didn’t let them down” Coach Billy Gaines.

#2 BRIAN’S SONG
In 1971, Godfather star, James Caan and Stars Wars’ Lando Calrissian (Billy Dee Williams) team up to make this touching TV movie. Really realistic action as the movie used real Chicago Bears footage. It is a story that features Gale Sayers and Brian Piccolo. One black and one white, one loud and one shy, one talented and the other a hardworking runt face unprecedented odds and become best friends. Their tallest task is when Brian is diagnosed with cancer. It is a true buddy story that strikes the heart of the ultimate sports theme, love your teammates.

QUOTE TO REMEMBER: (Before the game) “I love Brian Piccolo. And I’d like all of you to love him too, and tonight when you hit your knees. Please ask God to love him.” Gale Sayers.

#1 REMEMBER THE TITANS
This is my favorite football movie by a long shot. I mean when you mix Denzel Washington, football and a grade-A soundtrack you are going to have a good movie. It follows the season of high school in Alexandria, VA during the Civil Rights movements. The school was the first in the area to mix black and white students, which meant the football team, would be too. In a remarkable training camp the team rallies together only to be hit with the racism and chaos of the real world. Instead of folding under the pressure the team becomes a beacon of hope for the town and the time. The team ended the season undefeated, a perfect season, not for the wins and losses but for the extraordinary maturity that the team showed during some very dark times. Did I mention Denzel was the coach?

QUOTE TO REMEMBER: “We will be perfect in every aspect of the game, you drop a pass you run a mile, you miss a blocking assignment you run a mile and if you fumble the football? Then I will break my foot off in your John Brown hind parts AND then you will run a mile…PERFECTION.” Herman Boone.

Other Movies: Knute Rockne, All American, the Longest Yard, Rudy, Little Giants

Dishonorable Mention: The Replacements

GET YOUR POPCORN READY!

No, do not worry we are not going to make you watch Terrell Owens' new show, the TO show or watch Shaq strip down to swim gear and race Michael Phelps. To be honest this week is going to give me a lot of anxiety. Will the Phillies land Roy Halladay? Will Favre return? Will Michael Vick see the field for camp? All of these questions monopolize much of my TV time. That got us thinking here on SportsNight about TV, that led to movies and then of course sports movies. This week on SportsNight we are going to look at the three best sports movies by sport. So check in everyday and let us know if we missed your favorite sports flic.

The Prince of Thieves

“This is Rickey, calling on behalf of Rickey…Rickey wants to play baseball.” – Rickey Henderson

And play he did. This weekend, on an ordinary summer Sunday, in a small town in upstate New York, Rickey Henderson, along with Red Sox Jim Rice, will be inducted into Baseball’s Hall of Fame. Rickey will be enshrined with the best that have ever played the game, and he most definitely belongs.

Growing up in Oakland, Rickey was an amazing athlete. He was a good basketball and baseball player, and phenomenal football player, being selected to the HS All-American team in 1976 as a senior running back. However, when drafted in the 4th round by his home town Athletics, he chose to pursue baseball rather than accept any of the football scholarships he’d been offered.

Henderson spent four seasons in the minors, prior to being called up in 1979. In the minors, Rickey transformed himself from simply a speed demon into the ultimate base thief that we came to know. He learned how far to take leads, how to read the pitcher, his trademark head-first dive, and learned that he could swipe third. All of these facets, along with a solid glove and above average bat, allowed him to flourish.

Called up in 1979 as a 20 year old, Rickey stole 33 bases in only 89 games, which set the stage for a great sophomore year. That year he eclipsed the AL record, stealing 100 bags. He went on to eclipse the MLB single-season record, by stealing 130 bases two years later. In 1985, Rickey was traded to the Bronx, and played there for 4 seasons, before being traded back to the Green & Gold in the summer of 1989. That season, Rickey helped lead Oakland to a World Series title, as the A’s swept the Giants in four games.

After realizing his dream of a title, Rickey worked even harder in 1990, winning his first MVP award. That season he stole only 65 bases (low by his standards) but lead the league in runs (119), OBP (.439) and also hit a career high 28 home runs from the leadoff spot. The following year, in 1991, he broke Lou Brock’s all-time stolen base record, by stealing his 939th base. When Rickey hung up his spikes, he had 1406 stolen bases; roughly 50% more than Brock did.

He left Oakland in 1993, heading to Toronto, where he won another title. He found his way back to Oakland 1994 and was back again in 1998. From then until his retirement in 2003, Rickey bounced around to a variety of ball clubs. He ended his career as the all-time leader in SB’s (1406), Walks (2190, later eclipsed by Barry Bonds) and Runs (2295). Not to mention he also had a career OBP of .401 and is in the 3,000 hit club (3081).

One thing that no statistic can describe is how Rickey changed the game. His keen eye and powerful stroke made him an extremely tough out, and once he got on base, there was no stopping him. He caused havoc to catchers and pitchers alike, and even created the Rickey Rally, where he could walk, steal second and third, and get driven in on a sac fly, resulting in one run with no hits.

While his on field accolades speak for themselves, what adds to Rickey Henderson is his charismatic and colorful character. Some say arrogant, others say confident, but there was no doubt that Rickey knew what he could do. He also became famous for talking in the third person, talking to himself at the plate, and having some outlandish quotations. None the less, number 24 always backed up his mouth with his play.

This side of Rickey is what has many people excited to see Rickey’s induction speech, as no one quite knows what will be uttered. However, one thing is for sure; Rickey has been quite humbled. Upon his election into the HOF, Rickey talked about how humbled he was to be placed in such an elite group and how he was glad people recognized that he played the game the right way.

Ricky Henderson revolutionized the leadoff position, and there will never be any one close to his presence in the one hole. His command of the strike zone and base running capabilities are unparalleled, and he truly left his mark on the game. As my favorite player growing up, I’m proud to see his induction this weekend, as well has his number retired in Oakland come next weekend. While I too found myself in the leadoff spot a fair amount and stole a good number of bases through out my baseball career, I told myself what Rickey told himself, “you can’t steal first” when I walked to the plate. But that never stopped Rickey.

Campfire Confidential

It is summer time, one of the best times of the year. It gives us the chance to go out with our friends and sit around the campfire and share our feelings while having a kumbayatic experience. But around this time of the year we get a chance to look at a different type of campfire.

It is finally here! A time at which we starve all winter and summer for, its time for NFL training camp! I always wondered why we care so much about spring training and training camp. The reason that people love it so much is because it is something new and the opening of camp opens the hope of a new season. As a Phillies fan I always counted the days until the Birds flew into Lehigh. Now that the Phillies are a contender, Eagles training camp isn’t as necessary. It is because we needed the Eagles to save us from the despair of the long summer. I doubt many people care about the Giants camp or Patriots camp but I bet you they flock by the thousands to see the Browns and the Steelers.

Whether the need is there or not, NFL training camp gives us that thirst that can only be quenched by the promise of opening weekend. While the kids try to keep there first day of school at bay we will look at the campfires roaring this summer. Here are the top five campfires that we should keep an eye out for.

1.) TO in BUFFALO
TO knew the day that he signed his contract with the Bills that he was riding north to a very small market. There isn’t nearly the same type of attention as he received in Philly, San Fran or Big D. To remedy this problem TO has been working even harder to pull the spotlight on himself. He has hosted the Buffalo News, appeared on a reality show and created another, and even went as far as creating his own cereal “TO’s”. Before everyone picks up a box beware of what you have in Buffalo. If he isn’t made happy he could be dangerous to a young and fragile lockeroom. On the other side TO is always great in his first season to spite his previous city. He could be the star of a very underrated offense.

2.) FAVRE TO MINNESOTA
Have you heard? Favre is considering coming back to the NFL. Well we think he is, he might, we aren’t so sure, I don’t think he is, but he still could. He has held Sportscenter, Minnesota, and the NFL hostage this offseason as he makes us wait for his decision. He should make up his mind by tomorrow but the question will be if he can pick up the offense and whether or not his arm will hold up.

3.) ROETHLISBERGER’S LEGAL TROUBLE
We are not sure yet whether or not Big Ben actually raped the girl or whether it is a get rich quick scheme by another Cry Wolf. Whether it is or isn’t true the drama might distract him and the defending champions.

4.) MICHAEL VICK
Michael Vick is more hated than most of the rapist, murderer and druggies in the NFL. Something is wrong about that and we as a culture need to reevaluate who e hate. With that said he did a bad thing and has paid his debt to society and the question remains if he will be reinstated and will a team sign him. If not he may be destined as the face of the United Football League in Orlando.

5.) ROMO’S SHAPE
The summer of break ups for Tony Romo. He first split with diva Terrell Owens who ran away from Texas to an extension of Canada. Then he thought the right time to break up with his girlfriend Jessica Simpson was on her birthday weekend. He also has broken up with his athletic physique. He supposedly was asked by the Boys to drop some of the weight before camp. Will he be able to be ready to step up as the leader of the dismal Cowboys? Because the pressure falls squarely on his shoulders now that TO is gone.

Christmas In July...What A Halladay/Holliday!

How many just love unwrapping that gift on Christmas? You know the one I’m talking about…the one you’ve only been asking for since the summer. Well some teams are going to feel the same way as they get the gift that is an extra arm or bat in their arsenal.

However, this year we might not see as many deals as we think. Currently only nine teams can really be counted out of the race for October, which means that 21 are slugging it out for only eight spots. This translates in not enough sellers for the amount of buyers in the market. However there is talent out there to be had, and it could make all difference in the brawl for October.

TOP 5 AVAILABLE:

5. Dan Haren, SP, Arizona Diamondbacks
Although he is only in the first year of a 4-year extension, rumors have surfaced about whether he will stay in the desert. Pitching is always an essential part of any playoff run, and Haren is quality on the mound, posting some of the best numbers in the league in the past three seasons. Teams that do not have the prospects to go land astray Jay, such as the Brewers or the Braves, may look at Haren. However, in the end, Haren will probably stay put.

4. Justin Duchscherer, SP, Oakland Athletics
While he is yet to throw a pitch this season due to off-season elbow surgery, the free agent to be has been one of the most commanding pitchers in baseball the past few years if you’ve been paying attention. Last year he maintained a WHIP under 1.00 as a starter and, if not for an incompetent Oakland offense, he may have wound up with 15 wins (won 10). He will most likely stay in Oakland, but if teams are desperate for pitching, he’s not a bad target.

3. Jack Wilson, SS, Pittsburgh Pirates
Although Neil Huntington has had a fairly long career in baseball, the Pirates GM must have been a used car salesman and one point by the way he’s shipping off products. The Pirates have already traded Nyjer Morgan, a speedy defensive outfielder, and Nate McClouth, their 2008 stud, in an attempt to “rebuild”. Wilson could be next, as he’s expressed an interesting in winning (clearly something not happening at PNC Park) and he’s a free agent to be. Plus, he’s put up quality numbers in the small market that is Pittsburgh.

2. Matt Holliday, LF, Oakland Athletics
While the probability of his departure has greatly diminished due to his production this season, Matt Holliday is a bright young star that needs to find a home. Beane’s crapshoot hasn’t panned out, and it’s completely improbable that he will re-sign with Oakland after the season due to payroll. With the right package, he can be drawn away from the Bay Area, otherwise Beane will sit with him and take the draft picks he gets when Holliday signs elsewhere after the season.

1. Roy Halladay, SP, Toronto Blue Jays
Can’t say much more than what’s already been said the past few weeks, but yes he’s this good. The “Doc” has put up some astonishing numbers north of the border the past few seasons and would be extremely valuable to any team that can arrange it. While the Phillies are the obvious front runners, others might be in the mix. Even though they’re white hot, the Phils need this arm. Even if its in exchange for Happ and two other stud prospects, if the Phils can lock up Halladay for 5-6 years, its worth it.

Some people love Black Friday in November. I personally love watching the shopping done in July.

ANOTHER LOOK AT IT

What is going on around here? Last night the Minnesota Twins blew a huge lead against the struggling Athletics at home. After an impressive start they let the A’s off the ropes and the green and gold made them pay. They erased the deficit in a 7 run 7th which was sparked by Matt Holliday’s grand slam. Unfortunately for Oakland the headline of the night wasn’t the epic comeback it was the controversy that the final out caused.

Let me start by stating that Michael’s A’s deserved to win that game and the Twins deserved what they got. But it does raise the debate for instant replay, should it be expanded or does it not belong in baseball?

I think that what happened last night is an example that screams for the need to further introduce instant replay. The game ended when Michael Cuddyer was called out trying to score from second on Wuertz’s wild pitch. The original call was proven wrong when a second look at it clearly showed Cuddyer getting the plate before the tag.

It is hard for the ump’s to make the call in a fraction of a second from a potentially blocked view. But just because it is tough does that mean that we shouldn’t get the call correct? The Twins would have tied the game and forced extra innings or won the game. The season is a long 162 trek through the summer and it will give MLB a kick in the pants if the Twins miss the playoffs by one game.

Baseball is the last major sport to introduce instant replay. Even when they did it was merely a baby step in the right direction. They decided to limit the replay to only homeruns. It is a step that has worked but since then there have been instances in which we wish that baseball would take another step. There are many reasons that baseball fans are hesitant to further involve replay. So let’s talk about them, shall we?

1.) “The current system is taking too long. Just last night in Houston a review of a potential home run left fans and players waiting for about seven minutes. That is a long break for an already long game.”

Okay, let’s get real. If you are a baseball fan and it is your game then you stopped worrying about a long game a long time ago. If you go to a baseball game and endure the heat and humidity and then your team gets robbed of a win or a pivotal moment because of human error you are going to be ticked off. It is not as if every single out is going to be contested. Probably the only calls that will be contested will be the ones that the managers come out of the dugouts. Everyone doesn’t mind when a manager comes out of the dugout to throw a hissy fit for five minutes over a blown call, and the end of their tirade what happens? Nothing. We might as well get the call right if we are going to spend the time.

2.) “If the scope of instant replay in baseball gets too big it could really hurt the game. A replay of every close play at first base or called strike three would be horrible for the typical fan.”

It is a slippery slope that baseball intends to avoid. I do understand their concern if all of a sudden we challenge every single call. These are the same concerns that football, tennis and hockey have had to deal with. Football and tennis have systems in which the teams get a certain number of challenges and are awarded if they get the challenge right. For hockey the reviews are decided on by the officials. If the officials think that there is a possibility of their call being wrong then they check it out. For baseball we are simply looking at the hot zones for replay. The replay would be best at the foul poles, homerun calls and close plays at each base. It would never come to a point when we challenge balls and strikes.

3.) “Though accountability is good, we can't question everything an umpire says. Umpires are human and make mistakes and those mistakes will always be part of the game and there is simply no way around that.”

This quote bothers me. “those mistakes will always be part of the game and there is simply no way around that.” So we would rather accept that we are going to get things wrongs just to avoid using the technology? I am not the most technologically savvy guy and would admit that if we didn’t have technology than a lot of our lives wouldn’t be so hectic BUT if I don’t just accept that I will get to work late just because I wanted to avoid upgrading from a bike to a car.

The bottom line of the argument is that we should try to get the call right. Who wants to win or lose on a bad call. Why should we live with that when we have the possibility of getting it right. I know the baseball purists may disagree and I welcome the debate, but honestly it’s time to get it right.

On the Road Again...

A total of 1,000 miles and 18 hours of driving provided me with the opportunity to watch two ball games last week, as I was absent to the blog due to my trip to Dodger Stadium and Petco Park. Dodger is a classic, and a place I’d been before, while Petco is state of the art and was a new experience.

Thursday – July 16th
Dodgers v. Astros – Dodger Stadium
Sitting roughly 9 rows from the top of the stadium, I witnessed Manny’s first game back at Chavez Ravine since his 50 game suspension. He was greeted with overwhelming applause and proceeded to go 1-4 with 2 K’s. It was like when Bonds was a Giant, everyone knew he was a cheater, but he was their cheater. It’s becoming depressingly sad that someone sitting out for CHEATING, is still welcomed by fans because ‘roids have become such a part of the game today.


The game itself was not even worthy of the Dodger applause. After 5 innings of a masterful pitching duel between Wandy Rodriguez and Randy Wolf, the Astros jumped out in front on a Humberto Quintero homer to dead center. The Astros tacked-on two more runs, winning the game 3-0, although the Dodgers threatened in a couple innings.


As for Dodger Stadium, it’s just a classic place to see a game. You get the feeling of Brooklyn, Los Angeles, Dodgers-past, and Dodgers-present. It’s also got some of the best in the league. Dodger Dogs are by far the best franks around and Vin Scully is the ultimate listening pleasure. Overall, a must visit for any fan of the National Pastime.

Friday – July 17th
Padres v. Rockies – Petco Park
Since they took the Rockies to a one game playoff in the 2007 season, no one has been worse than the Padres. The Friars showed how a bulimic offense and mediocre pitching is not a combination for success, and sitting only 20 rows behind the dugout, it provided me with the opportunity to see this first hand.


That Friday night, the Pads pushed 3 across on only 3 hits and failed to get a hit after the 5th inning. They Rockies meanwhile hit well and played even better defense. Ian Stewart made ESPN’s Top 10 with a diving stop at the hot corner, Tulowitzki played solid up the middle, and Helton made some great stretches at 1st. Another thrill included seeing Ubaldo Jimenez, the Colorado starter, hit the triple digits on the radar gun. All in all, the Rockies dominated, although only winning 5-3, and the most explosion in San Diego that night was the post-game fireworks.


Petco Park is a great ballpark. It combines luxury with a down-to-earth feel. Modeled as a completely open terrace, it is very welcoming and provides great views of the entire field. Also, they feature a ballpark steal, by offering a 5 for $5 deal that includes a hot dog, popcorn, peanuts, a cookie, and a soda. Definitely a park worth going too.



Overall it was a trip to remember, and definitely helped make this 2009 season one to remember.

IT IS OUDAAA HEREE!

"IT IS OUDDAAA HEREEE, RYAN HOWARD!" Harry K.

It is a call that we have heard over a hundred of times but on the night that we need to hear it most, it wasn’t there. Last night Ryan Howard made MLB history by slamming his 200th homerun in record time. As many of us tried our best Harry K impersonation as the ball sailed out of Landshark Stadium in Miami it wasn’t the same. It is the first big moment for the Phillies with a different voice.

No matter who made the call the undisputable fact is that Ryan Howard now stands alone as the fastest player to ever hit 200 homeruns. He cruised past Ralph Kiner’s 70 year old record by 48 games. Ryan Howard is known for his power as he is on track for 48 homeruns and 150 rbi’s.
Since he came into the league he has been amongst the league’s elite. He has won a silver slugger award, NL Rookie of the Year, NL MVP, 2 NL East titles, an NL Pennant and not to mention a World Championship. He has the potential of being one of the best Phillies in franchise history. It is true a strong start doesn’t translate into a hall of fame career but it can’t hurt. Howard belittled ARod’s start and they think he’ll be the homerun champ, so where’s the love for Howard?

He is about to turn 30 and unfortunately came up to the majors late by the Phillies who wanted to make sure he was ready to go. One of the biggest knocks against Howard is his fielding and strikeout numbers. Both of these problems are what Howard had dedicated his offseason to fixing. He isn’t going to break any more strikeout records and he is nimble as a big cat at the cool corner now that he dropped a lot of weight in the offseason.

Howard may or may not find himself immortalized in Cooperstown but he does get the satisfaction of being faster than any homerun hitter already there. He probably will end up with 500+ homeruns and hopefully a few more championships. It was a night that the Phillies got to honor one of their even though another great wasn’t there to see it.

WANTA TAKE THIS OUTSIDE?!

One of the fastest growing sports events in the country is moving to one of the grandest stages in all of sports. The NHL announced today that the Philadelphia Flyers will due battle with the Boston Bruins in the Winter Classic at Fenway Park. The Classic was named the “Sports Event of the Year” by the SportsBusiness Journal.

"The NHL Winter Classic is truly a great day for hockey. It has become arguably the biggest game played during the NHL's regular season and offers a tremendous opportunity to showcase our great sport of hockey to millions of worldwide viewers. Despite the fact that the Classic has to compete with a full slate of College Football Bowl games it has proven itself worthy of the spotlight

The 3rd Annual Winter Classic will be played in the shadows of the Green Monster at Fenway. Fenway is a cultural icon and has brought countless memories to the sports world. The previous Classics have been in Ralph Wilson Stadium in Buffalo and Wrigley Field in Chicago. This years matchup will feature to blue collar teams from two blue collar cities.

The Flyers newly revamped with Chris Pronger and Ray Emery will battle Tim Thomas and a giant of a man in Zdeno Chara and the Boston Bruins. The Bruins are one of the Original Six teams while the Flyers are members of the first NHL expansion. It has the ingredients for one special event.

NICK v. MIKE Celebrity Baseball

Last night concluded the festivities in St. Louis for the All-Star Game. It was a lot of fun to see all of the different events that took place including the Celebrity Softball game. And as many of you know Michael and I are big softball players in our older age and were flattered when ESPN and Major League Baseball picked us over Mike and Mike to be the captains for the 2010 softball game in Anaheim.

Michael being an A’s fan is going to be the captain of the American League, while I being a die hard Phillies fan will captain the National League. This game isn’t for money or home field advantage it is for the love of the game and for bragging rights. Without further delay I present to you the teams…

“Please welcome the visiting National League” PA Announcer.

NATIONAL LEAGUE

1. Meg Fox-What are you talking about, I didn’t pick her because she is drop dead gorgeous. Well a little but mostly for her speed and her potential as a leadoff man. In transformers 2 she was able to sprint away from Megatron and heavy fire, so I think she’ll be fine beating out a close play at second. Plus the other team will be dumbfounded as they watch her do the running.

2. John Krasinski- aka Jim from the Office is a proven competitor. He played his heart out in a basketball game versus the warehouse guys, placed second in the Office Olympics and didn’t stop until he got Pam. He’s got the heart of a lion.

3. Cal Ripken Jr.- Before Robert Downey Jr. Cal Ripken was known as Iron Man. As we all know the celebrity game can get kind of aggressive and therefore we will rely heavily on Mr. 2,632-consectutive-games for some insurance.

4. Kevin James- He big and he’s mean. This porky, funny man from Queens will provide a great power bat to the National League lineup. Unfortunately his agility is limited. Therefore we will probably stick him at first or behind the plate. Batting clean up James we go from King of Queens to King of the Diamond.

5. Serena Williams- She has dominated women’s tennis and will do the same on the diamond. One forehand could push the National League over the top.

6. Shaq- It is true he has a huge strike zone. But if he gets a hold of one its going to be gone. Plus I don’t think any AL pitcher is going to want to strike him out because he will be under command to charge the mound. And that would scare me.

7. Josh Charles- known for being in the Dead Poet’s Society is the Nick-based character on the show Sports Night (the show that we based our show off of). He had to be on the team.

8. Lee Corso- The ESPN College Gameday host, Scooter is a fast, fun-loving player that will provide team leadership and strategy. If Michael thinks he is going to win, Corso will give him a “not-so-fast-my-friends”. Now that deserves a big ole “Yo”.

9. Steve Carlton-This pitching legend will take the bump for the NL. He will take his four Cy Young’s and half a billon strikeouts and try and belittle the American League Offense.

10. Steven Colbert-He is quick witted, funny and smart. He has hosted his show, ran for president and tried out for the army in Iraq which proves to me that he is a versatile player that can be utilized as a great presence off of the bench.

11. Evangeline Lilly- She holds her own on a male dominated island. Kate kicks butt on the island from Lost and will do so on the diamond.

12. Emma Watson- the witch with the pitch. Bringing her in late as a relief for Carlton, Watson not only brings magic to the mound but an international flare for an expansion for the game.

13. Nick Esposito-this super star south paw aims to win one for the National League.


AMERICAN LEAGUE
“Now, the moment you have all been waiting for your American League celebrity all-stars!”.
1. Ricky Henderson - My favorite player as a kid, and who better to start of the game for you than the best leadoff hitter of all-time?

2. Mia Hamm - Great athlete with some speed from having played as a world class striker. Just needs to put the ball in play to get Ricky around the bases.

3. Kevin Costner - Whether it be Crash Davis or Ray Consella, the guy knows baseball. Putting him in the three whole should allow him to use his vast movie baseball knowledge to be patient and help the team.

4. Justin Timberlake - The guy has a good golf game, and I'm hoping that some good fairway drives can turn into at least warning track power. Plus he's got good moves on stage, so he should be able to make his way around the bases pretty well.

5. Jennie Finch - One of the best softball pitchers on the U.S. team, she should be one of the leaders on the field.

6. Matt Damon - As a huge Red Sox fan, I expect him to bring passion for the game. Not to mention the fact that he played Jason Bourne, so hopefully he's still got some of that strength left in him.

7. Misty May Treanor - The small but powerful volleyball player is married to a Marlins catcher, giving her some baseball knowledge. Also her small frame makes her hard to pitch too.

8. Dennis Eckersley - Will be a bigger presence on the mound than at the plate. Just hoping he doesn't throw a back-door slider like he did in Game 1 of the 1988 Series.

9. Matthew Perry - As a kid, he was a ranked amateur tennis player in Canada, his home country. His athleticism and comedic nature are good contributions to this team. Plus wanted some international flare.

10. Amy Adams - Her sweet nature is intended to keep the team up even when the scoreboard states otherwise. I'm sure she can play a mean second as well!

11. Robin Williams - Every team needs a club house guy, who gets the team motivated, but knows how to have fun. Who's better than this guy?!? He's great in serious roles and comedic ones, and he's become a big baseball fan as of late.

12. Tina Fey - One of the most popular women on television, she'll bring out a crowd. Not to mention that she's a Yankee's fan, and while I hate them, it at least shows dedication to the game.
13. Michael Bobich- Michael is going to rely on some of his leadership skills as well as his storied baseball background, he will try to not get intimidated by playing in his AL West rival Angels’ ballpark.


***Let us know what you think and who would be on your celebrity softball team.

This Time it Counts

Tuesday we get a special treat. No it’s not the debut of NCAA 10 or the midnight showing of Harry Potter: Half Blooded Prince it is the Major League Baseball All-Star game. The Midsummer classic is arguably the best all-star game out there and in a pivotal move six years ago; commissioner Bud Selig made it the most relevant. Six years ago he decided that the All-Star game would decide who gets home field advantage in the World Series. This has spurred constant debates, is it fair that one game gets to decide something that 30 teams play 162 games each to decide on their own?

I am against the way that the All-Star game decides this for a few reasons. Maybe it’s because I am a National League fan and they haven’t won one in close to a decade. But as I did the research I discovered that even that argument doesn’t hold water. Despite getting demolished in the all-star game the National League has taken three out of six titles from the American League. So then what’s the big deal?

First, is the fact that the fans are the ones picking the teams. I love the fact that we get to vote for our heroes but its not exactly fair if Phillies fans vote more than a D-Backs fan. This year the Philadelphia radio station WIP ran a contest for ten fans to come down to Citizen’s Bank Park and vote for Shane Victorino. While he is deserving, I don’t think it is right that a team could use the mobster mentality “vote early and often” to get their players in. For example last season Big Papi was voted into the All-Star game despite playing for less than a month the first half of the season. It is like high school and has been reduced to a popularity contest.

It’s one of those things that if the fans are going to vote for the players than it shouldn’t count for the post season. If it is going to count then leave the fans out of it. I would be frustrated if I played on a team that won over a hundred games but then couldn’t have my game 1 or 7 at home because a bunch of guys we played all season lost it for us.

With that said Major League Baseball hasn’t run into a problem yet but it is something that gives us unnecessary headaches during the middle of the summer. It is the best all-star game but it shouldn’t affect one of the best moments in the fall.

This year i think it is the best chance for the NL to get home field advantage. Here are my predictions...

Derby---> Dark Horse Brandon Inge (Detroit)
ASG-----> National League 9- American League 6
MVP----> Albert Pujols (home town hero)

EARNING THEIR STRIPES

AL CENTRAL
In the conclusion of SportsNight's midseason report we look at one of the most underrated divisions in all of baseball is the AL Central. Every single year it seems that the race for the central has come down to the wire. Since 2005 every team in the division has made the playoffs except, of course the Royals. The parity is screaming once again this summer. The top three teams are separated by 4 games. At the all-star break the division title may be in doubt but it has the ingredients for a fun summer.

1.) DETROIT TIGERS (--0 GB)
Remember last year—Sports Illustrated predicted that the offensive juggernaut Tigers were going to blast their way to a World Series, and Dontrell Willis was going to win the AL Cy-Young. Well Dontrell is still having his problems but the Tigers finally caught up to the front of the pack. Miguel Cabrera leads the way offensively with .323 average and 48 rbi’s. On defense the Tigers are enjoying the success of Edwin Jackson who has .256 era. As of right now the Tigers aren’t in the same class as the Sox or Yankees but that doesn’t matter. One you into the post-season anything can happen.

2.) MINNESOTA TWINS (--4 GB)
Unfortunately for the Twins their hopes of making the post season will depend on whether or not they can catch the Tigers for the division. It seems that the Wild Card is going to either come out of the AL East or the runner-up in the West. So it is an up hill battle for the Twins but it is possible with Joe Mauer hitting everything, leading the league in average and rbi machine Justin Morneau in the top five in both rbi’s and home runs. The Twins have also gotten good pitching. The pieces to the puzzles are there but can they put it all together in time to make a run at the Tigers.

3.) CHICAGO WHITE SOX (--2.5 GB)
The defending Central Champion White Sox won the division on an extra game with Minnesota last year, and it might take a similar type of magic to get to October again. Konerko, Ramierez will have to make up for the absence of Carlos Quentin. The White Sox are experienced but another magical comeback might not be in the cards.

4.) KANSAS CITY ROYALS (--10.5 GB)
The Kansas City Royals were in fact in first place for longer than usual this year. They rode the arm with AL Cy Young Candidate Zach Greinke who almost had a negative ERA in the beginning of the year. Which is very impressive considering he is a Royal. The Royals will continue to be mediocre and look towards next year, again.

5.) CLEVELAND INDIANS (--14 GB)
The Tribe has to be one of the biggest disappointments this season. With not much more to play for this season the Indians look to the future and Cliff Lee’s status. They seem to be sellers at the trade deadline but only for a hefty price. Lee’s performance recently has been on of the only bright spots after a rough start.

Tightly Packed…Except For One

The NL Central is the only division to feature six teams. While this may sound cluttered, normally there is a pretty good spread between first place and the Pirates. However, this year, teams are battling for position like horses out of the gate at the Kentucky Derby. Right now, it’s St. Louis that is out in front…but it could be a photo finish.

1. St. Louis Cardinals (- GB)
Led by the best player in the game, Albert Pujols, the Cardinals are in the lead halfway through the season. They have seen terrific offensive performance throughout their lineup and have seen good pitching from their under-rated rotation and bullpen. Probably one of the biggest surprises has been the pitching of Chris Carpenter and Ryan Franklin. Carpenter has returned to his ace like status after an injury-plagued season, and Franklin has been lights out in his new found closer role.

2. Milwaukee Brewers (2 GB)
The “Brew Crew” are probably the biggest surprise in this division. Written off after losing C.C. Sabathia and Ben Sheets, the Brewers have pitched fairly well and hit even better. They post one of the best lineups in baseball, and Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder have proven that they will make up the core of this team for years to come. Look for the Brewers to stay close, but probably fall down the stretch.

3. Chicago Cubs (3.5 GB)
They are the biggest disappointment of the season. Touted as the NL team to beat, the Cubbies have not lived up to expectations. They added Milton Bradley to an already meaty lineup, but he has failed to perform. The rotation has Zambrano, Dempster, and Harden at the top, but yet the pitching has had issues. They should be fine by the end of the season, but even if they make the playoffs, this is not the year that the Series comes to Wrigley.

4. Houston Astros (4.0 GB)
While they started off slow, the Astros have picked up the pace. With a middle of the order that features Tejada, Lee, and Berkman, they will always have a chance. This offense must continue to overcompensate for their mediocre pitching. If they could go get an arm before the deadline, they would be better set for an August/September run.

5. Cincinnati Reds (4.5 GB)
The Reds show future promise, but future is the key word. They’re led by youngsters Jay Bruce and Joey Votto offensively, and have got good pitching from their young rotation. However, there are still missing pieces in Cincinnati, such as a stronger top of the order which will allow Votto and Bruce to knock in some more runs.

6. Pittsburgh Pirates (8 GB)
What’s there to say? They are only eight back, but the Bucs haven’t had a winning season since 1992 and they have traded away most of their current talent for prospects. In the past year alone, they’ve trade Xavier Nady, Jason Bay, Nate McClouth, and Nyjer Morgan. Talk about a sale. Fans are hoping the team goes up for sale soon!