Charlotte Bobcats, new and improved for 05-06 season

The NBA didn't treat the Charlotte Bobcats well in their first year as an expansion team. The weight fell on the shoulders of rookie, Emeka Okafor. A new season is almost here and help has arrived. Without a steady and consistent point guard, the Bobcats didn't have anyone to lead the offense in 04-05. That has changed with one top draft pick, Raymond Felton. He's quick, a smooth passer, reliable, and full of energy. I think he'll be a spark plug to the offense. Also, Felton will increase the team's scoring per game. Joining him in Charlotte will be his former Tarheel's teammate, Sean May. This is another step in the right direction. May will bring another big body to the mix, most likely going to positioned at 4 spot(PF). He has strong hands, is a proven scorer in the paint, capable of averaging 8-12 rebounds a game, and will help clog up the middle on defense.

The franchise has only begun. With enough time and the right managerial decisions this team can be respectable. They can attain mid-range goals and finish with a commendable record. Success is not going to occur overnight, but strides hopefully will be taken to improve the overall structure of this team. It's not too early to start pondering possible trades either. Another star player or two can fill a few holes at shooting guard and small forward. The pressure is going to be on the rookies though I think because they'll want to pull this team out of the gutter in only it's second year. At least the Bobcats can be content in last season's efforts by obtaining a better record than their predecessors, the New Orleans Hornets. Well, actually that's not really saying much since the Hornets finished dead last in the Western conference. That doesn't matter though, this team is moving on up and will make great progress. So cheer up, Charlotte Bobcats and best of luck in the new season!

New dress code for the NBA

The NBA has finally decided to set standards in player wardobe attire. Well, it's about time. Commissioner David Stern established a policy requiring all active NBA players to wear professional dress clothes during road trips. This is good for athletes and shouldn't cause a issue, but just like too many foreign players in the league it already has. Players have complained about the new rule, too accustomed to wearing whatever street clothes they prefer all the time. Well, that's changed whether players like it or not. Some superstar players have even had the balls to argue that if the NBA wants them to wear suits and ties why don't they get paid extra money, separate from their regular salary. This is being greedy as hell! Is it really that big of an inconvenience to spend a couple hundred dollars on nice outfits? It's okay though for these professional basketball players to go on wild spending sprees, buying expensive custom-made cars, mansions, jewerly, speed boats, home stereo systems with surround-sound, hookers, weed, or even a small island. They don't mind paying for these luxuries.

Whatever happened to just being grateful to have the ability to play basketball? Players who are whining and opposing the dress code need to shut up, accept and respect the regulation. It's not like the players are being forced to practice proper hygiene or hair grooming. Otherwise Ben Wallace would have to kiss his monster afro goodbye. To me, not wanting to wear fancy outfits doesn't make sense. Being privileged enough to afford such clothes is a blessing. I understand finding the right sizes is a problem for big guys. Shaq has to shop at the Big and Tall department stores, sometimes having to special order items. The point is the man has plenty of money. Special events or ceremonies he'll attend make it necessary for him to wear suits anyway. When you're a mega-millionaire a dress code is not too much to ask and should be the least of your problems. With the 2005-06 season fast approaching, players can hopefully see the need to sport their natural ability as well as a professional appearance.

New World Series: White Sox Vs. Astros

The 2005 playoffs haven't excited me that much because my favorite teams as mentioned before were not included. That's okay, I've accepted over half a century of losing and misfortune by the Cubs. At least the other Chicago fans are happy and anxious that the Sox are going to the World Series. Their drought of winning the championship has lasted since 1959. These are times to cherish because who knows if this team will be able to return to the Series for another 50 years. Shoeless Joe Jackson, the former hard-hitting Sox player must be rolling over in his grave, thinking of this chance he never got to play in the biggest game of them all. Also, he must get sick of seeing re-runs of the movie, "Field Of Dreams", especially since Kevin Costner's character gets all the credit for building the baseball field. Well, then on the other hand maybe showing this movie over and over was a good luck charm in an odd sort of way.

The days of the Black Sox scandal are over and the 2005 Chicago team are determined on making a splash in the World Series. Behind four dominant starters who pitched complete games in the League Championship Series, they're confident and ready to face the Houston Astros (*First time team franchise has reached the World Series). With a hot hitting Paul Konerko and slugger Jermaine Dye, the Sox will try to out hit their opponents. I look for Mark Buehrle to have a big game pitching second in the rotation. Naysayers who don't believe in newcomers entering the World Series need to shut up and stop whining because their "team" didn't make it (Yankees). They should appreciate the change, besides Houston deserves this chance, especially Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell who have suffered without a title since joining the team at the start of their careers. Despite being glad for both teams, I'm pulling for the Astros since I'm favor the NL plus being a Lance Berkman fan and have sympathy for Bags and Biggio. I don't wish bad luck to either team and hope an idiot who pretends to be a Chicago fan doesn't cause fan interference, therefore screwing the Sox while inflicting a bad cloud of death. With the exception of that possibility, it's going to be a great World Series!

Umpires favor non-instant replay proposal

Major League Baseball has progressed steadily in the last 10-15 years. New regulations are invoked for players, new stadiums built have evolved into more fan friendly and convenient venues to watch games,allowing fans to do anything from taking batting practice to access Internet connections on laptops, and two lucky teams have a shot at the playoffs through the wildcard. As far as the game itself, people have gotten accustomed to the rules of baseball. All of a sudden, MLB is considering getting rid of instant replay. Who came up with this crazy idea? This is one of the last changes MLB needs. Umpires don't always get credit for their work and have to make tough calls in crucial situations. In my view though, this will only encourage umpires to speed up the game even more than usual. Anyone who's seen several games in their life, knows that umpires will make questionable calls and won't settle on particular areas for the strike zone. They'd call strikes all over the place. This is one reason hitters tend to strike out frequently. They're afraid not to swing even if the pitch is going to be an obvious ball outside.

The main problem with banning instant replay is how much it's going to effect teams. For example, if a batter hits a rapid, long fly ball which appears to be shifting towards the foul poll, but is a fair ball and the umpires agree otherwise, this could impact the outocme of the game. This goes the same for just the opposite, a signal to indicate a homerun that actually tails off to the left of the foul poll. Also, a team may suffer when a player attempts a diving catch, but traps the ball with the glove after it touches the ground and it's called an out. These are occurrences which sometimes requires another look. Without instant replay, teams will get screwed over royally. I've seen some terrible umpires since following baseball. They're made calls so poor that as a spectator you wonder why they're not wearing glasses. When a runner is indicated safe, but is tagged by the catcher at home plate by a few feet without sliding you've got to believe that the home umpire's eye sight is shot to hell. Why else would he make such an assinine call? So with consideration for these types of controversial and influential calls it should be evident, instant replay serves a strong purpose in baseball.

Rose displaying his bat speed as a Philly. Photo- Manny Millian 

Remembering Charlie Hustle

The days of old in baseball are a distance memory, but are not forgotten. The Phillies and Reds organization won't forget a proven superstar named Pete Rose. In the 60's and 70's he was tearing it up at the plate in the National League. His legendary status and remarkable records have gone down in history. People still marvel at what a clutch switch hitter Rose was in his career. The fundementally sound third base could hit with the best in the league as well as flash the leather on occasion. Hitting over .300 as a career average while pounding out more than 3,000 total hits was a testament to his dedication and performance in baseball. In the late 80's Rose finished out his amazing career, retiring as a Montreal Expo (What a wasted talent on such a dreadful team).

Pete Rose has become an icon in baseball. His name is universally known with educated fans of the game. His presence on a vintage Reds team which included Johnny Bench, Joe Morgan, and Tony Perez made him an even better player. Those guys relieved him of carrying the load, allowing a classic hitter to emerge. The great thing about Pete Rose was he didn't mind taking risks. If he wanted to steal a base or beat a throw at home plate he'd plunge face first and try his best to avoid a tag. No matter how bad the tumble fell while getting his jersey and pants dirty or ripped didn't shake his confidence. If breaking up a double play meant sliding into an infielder with spikes up Rose did it. Sure, it was a rotten tactic, but it worked a high percentage of the time. His worth ethic was admirable. He spent extra time working on timing, hitting to the opposite field, bunting, learning pitcher's motions, and other vital tidbits. This put him a step ahead of the competition.

Controversy remains as whether or not Pete Rose should be voted into the Hall of Fame. His past history of betting on games and removal from baseball is the sole negative light shining on the decision. Some people feel Rose doesn't deserve the prestigious honor and enshirement into Cooperstown since he broke a rule in baseball. To those critics I say this: Get over it! Leave this offense in the past where it belongs. His conduct or actions doesn't reflect his career performance and fantastic achievements as a player. These are the aspects which should be considered for his possible induction. Yes, Pete did screw-up, got caught, and lied but it's not like he cheated by using performance enhancing drugs or killed anybody. Now if ever used speed to get energized and run around the bases like a madman then I'd disagree on putting him in the Hall of Fame. It's time for the Commissioner and MLB to cut the crap. Stop the blaming and critizing, vote on Rose's entry into Cooperstown. By reaching the promise land through this chance Pete Rose truly will be deemed a legendary, Hall of Famer.

Goodbye Yankees and good riddance

It's a special time of year in baseball. It's the push for the World Series and the Yankees are knocked out of contention. As a fan of the game and opposer of spoiled, rich franchises you've got to be feeling good about the postseason. Sure you favorite team may not have made the playoffs or even came close to winning their division, but at least a new, deserving team on the rise to stardom has an opportunity to win. The Angels took care of business in Anaheim Monday night to capture the league championship series and doing so against Randy Johnson. If anything Boston must be cheered up after being swept against the White Sox. They despise the Yanks more than anyone.

The power trip of this rich empire created by George Steinbreiner is stopped... rather put on hold until next season. I guess losing for a change can be a humbling experience. The spirit of Babe Ruth or Mickey Mantle didn't serve as a good luck charm in the Yankee's outcome. Maybe these overrated punks will learn not to be so beheaded and arrogant from now on by basking in the glory of fame and winning history of the franchise. Just because their multi-million dollar name appears on numerous jerseys and bats, which are sold for profit and then allegely cut up and slapped on baseball cards doesn't make them the best players. As the Angels and White Sox battle it out for a spot in the World Series, maybe the Yankees will realize something important: teams don't get accustomed to winning, they strive to the be the best and that offering to sign some kid's ball for $100 is absurd. Young fans know a sham when they see it. Players shouldn't be greedy, but just enjoy playing the game and making fans happy. So long Yankees until 2006.

NL Playoffs: Same Teams and Circumstances

The NLDS series is shaping up like last years' playoffs. The only difference is the Padres are in the mix, but are close to being eliminated. It shouldn't come as a surprise to Braves fans that their team collaspes in the first round of the playoffs every year. What is their problem? They can't win with the likes of Andruw Jones, Chipper Jones, John Smoltz, and scrappy hitters like Marcus Giles. They have a problem with getting over the hump. Sure rookie, Jeff Francoeur is struggling at the plate, but this is no excuse for losing. The Astros are well on their way to their second consecutive League Championship Series. The veterans, like Craig Biggio and Jeff Bagwell will expected to step up on offense while Roger Clemens, Andy Petitte, and Roy Oswalt share the pitching load.

Like I've mentioned before, I don't care much for the baseball playoffs this year. Everything is turning out the same in the NL. There is nothing shocking or exciting to me about a team who wins 14 division titles, but blows it in the playoffs. Then the underdog looks to gain momentum or an advantage, but then falls flat on their back during the most pressure filled situations. That happens, it's understandable except when a team constantly fails to capitalize on scoring opportunties, a pitcher is left in too long or players make bonehead plays on the base paths and the field in crucial situations. Well, the St. Louis Cardinals better enjoy their lack of competition for a couple of days because the Padres were an obvious "no threat." Maybe the playing field will be even if one of the Cardinals' starting pitchers happens to get injured or has a freak accident. If the Astros go on to face them the injuries would make the series a more spirited challenge. Go ahead and throw a bench clearing brawl in the mix and then we've got a game worth watching. With several players ejected, managers will really have think on their toes especially when it comes to a near depleted bench and bullpen.

With playoffs focus is off steroids

Today marks the start of the 2005 Playoffs. Sure in my previous post I remarked about awaiting the upcoming basketball season rather than caring much for the baseball playoffs. It's come to my attention once again after watching a debate in Congress, around a week ago between John McCain and idiot Congress members that decision makers want to nit pick about this important issue. State representatives and majority leaders of the Senate and House proposed a policy for three strikes then you're out. Then it turned into 4 strikes, then back to 3 which led to a undecided halt and further arguing. Can't these people make up their damn minds? Anyway, today during a Presidential address President Bush was asked whether he continued to believe Rafael Palmerio is not guilty after finding out he tested positive. Of course, the Commander-In-Chief failed to give a straightforward, correct answer. He said, "Using steriods is wrong. They have no place in baseball and aren't good for baseball. They should be banned." Why does he have such a hard time answering simple questions?

Ignoring this problem isn't going to help it go away. The issue should already be resolved by now. Yes, Rafael Palmerio received his punishment, being refrained from playing the remainder of the season. That's fine, but what about all the high school and college athletes influenced to try performance enhancing drugs? They're still at risk. Supplies are circulating in secret locations and behind closed doors. Establishing a strict penalty for young athletes who use steroids are in order. This is necessary because before long kids at middle schools and even elementary schools will be getting their hands on this stuff. School administrators and coach have more than just guns and weed to watch for now. There was a time when kids only distributed crack and amphetamines in the school yard, not anymore. It's serious business. That's why it bothers concerned protestors to see leaders and lawmakers push this problem to the side like it's a common misdemeanor. Barring the hurricane diasters, this should be a top priority for Congress. Maybe they'll come to their senses and realize their laspe in thinking. Get a fair policy passed and finalize it. The time for talking is over.

Looking forward to basketball season

The way events have turned out for MLB this year it's refreshing to have another popular sport right around the corner. Well, at least if your favorite team hasn't made the playoffs again, further throwing fuel to their flaming history of shame(Chicago Cubs). Don't get me wrong certain teams are fun to root for, but when they take a nose dive straight into the depths of mediority or damnation, whichever is deemed appropriate dreams fade away. That's why if you're a sports fan you can focus your attention on the upcoming basketball season. Forget the baseball playoffs, Yankees and Braves win the pennant, random other teams make an appearnace, fans get hostile over questionable calls, and some idiot interferes with a play on the field. Like this is a real shocker. It's not a big deal to see the same teams oompete for the World Series. Who cares? That's why it's good to look forward to the basketball season.

The good points about watching pro and college basketball are: the games don't last 3 hours or more, basketball players sweat much harder to earn their salary, coaches scream at their players when they screw up then bench them a moments later, long suspensions are served to players who get involved in fights in the stands, drug use or possession is only an issue off the court, and when Shaq misses free throws fans enjoy a cool breeze in their direction. So there are several positive aspects in basketball. With the expansion team, the Charlotte Bobcats returning for their second year and the hot, top draft picks entering the league excitement is building. These rookies will be balling and displaying their talent in the spotlight. Lebron James and Carmelo Anthony may not be the centers of attention, but they'll still put on spectacular shows. They may even string together a couple triple-double performances. I'm definitely anticipating a great year of basketball rather than be absorbed into the usual, depressing circumstances of the baseball playoffs.