Congratulations to now Hall of Famers, Tony Gwynn and Cal Ripken Jr. These two class acts were bound for the Hall. They left their mark on the game, playing with grace and intelligence. Many baseball Greats were on hand in Cooperstown this week to be apart of the ceremony. Such names as Ozzie Smith, Wade Boggs, Bruce Sutter, Dave Winfield, Fergie Jenkins, and many others. The Orioles prime time third baseman was honored and noted for his 3,000 hits and most consecutive games played record.
Former Padres All-Star, Tony Gwynn talked about his relationships with Ozzie Smith and Ted Williams. He claimed whenever he made the All-Star team he wanted his locker to be next to the Wizard's because the shortstop always like to have fun and laugh. Gwynn felt it was best not to take records or special baseball events too seriously and just concentrate on playing smart baseball. Ted Williams taught the younger Gwynn the art of hitting in the clutch or for a high average.
During one memorable chat when the Padres Great met Williams he asked him where his bat was and then proceeded to gnaw on it as a joke. Both stars, Gwynn for the NL and Ripken from the AL are deserving players whose names and jerseys belong in the Halls of Cooperstown. The next cast for 2008 may not be so promising as critics and fans are so sure guys like Mark McGwire and Andre Dawson will receive enough votes. One thing is for certain now, the Hall has added two memorable Greats to the list!
Tuesday, July 31, 2007
Friday, July 27, 2007
Teixeira on the trading block, who's next?
The Texas Rangers are unhappy with their performance this season. Who could blame them. They've got a power-driven lineup yet a decent starting rotation. One name which has swirled around in trade rumors is Mark Teixeira. The star third baseman is having an off-year compared to his previous 2 seasons with the organization. Texas is searching for solutions to salvage somewhat of a disappointing spring and summer. Sammy Sosa's name had been tossed around.
After launching his 600th career homerun against his former team, Sosa hasn't received much attention. Trading power and star value for better pitching seemed to be the route Texas is pursuing. At 46-56 the Rangers are dead last in the AL West trailing their division rivals by 13 games. They actually still have a chance to make a late run and at least grab the wild card. On the other hand that's easier said than done.
Teixeira is expected to head to the East Coast, preferably somewhere such as Atlanta. Personally I'd rather see him stay on the West coast since I'm a Cubs fan. He though could really have an impact on a team like the Giants, who have struggled most of the year. I don't think that deal will happen. I'd be happy if the switch-hitting slugger landed in Seattle! You never know with these crazy trade talks right before the deadline.
After launching his 600th career homerun against his former team, Sosa hasn't received much attention. Trading power and star value for better pitching seemed to be the route Texas is pursuing. At 46-56 the Rangers are dead last in the AL West trailing their division rivals by 13 games. They actually still have a chance to make a late run and at least grab the wild card. On the other hand that's easier said than done.
Teixeira is expected to head to the East Coast, preferably somewhere such as Atlanta. Personally I'd rather see him stay on the West coast since I'm a Cubs fan. He though could really have an impact on a team like the Giants, who have struggled most of the year. I don't think that deal will happen. I'd be happy if the switch-hitting slugger landed in Seattle! You never know with these crazy trade talks right before the deadline.
Wednesday, July 25, 2007
NBA referee Tim Donahey's ultimate career mistake
Why can't sports professionals (and those who claim to be) just enjoy playing, refereeing, and coaching the game? It's evident the NBA has it's share of problems these days with immoral decision making by players, owners, and now at the latest...refs. NBA ref Tim Donahey had to jump into the gambling pool. Who says refs don't fix games anymore? The dark days of the NBA continue as guys like this want to screw up the fun and excitement for everyone.
I don't know the whole story on this Donahey character, but what bothers me is that guys like him are slowly deteriorating the game of basketball because of their greed. Some of the NBA finest players are also included in this category. It's funny how the schemers and gamblers are so shocked when they get caught. They look all sad and worried. Taking such high risks with your career is ignorant especially if it's a sports career. What straight man on earth wouldn't enjoy having such a job position?
David Stern is supposed to be handling this matter with swift and fair penalties. It's time for him to assert more authority and be his foot down on corruption and trouble making before he becomes too short to be seen standing with a microphone at a podium (At press conferences he may even get lost in the shuffle). Too many active members in the league are getting away with too much crap. The illegal activities need to be contained to a certain extent.
Otherwise players and coaches will continue to be at each other's throats, firearms will be brought to stadiums, fights will occur on and off the court, and secret drug distribution networks will still flourish. Refs such as Tim Donahey ought to be ashamed of themselves and take pride in their work. Besides they may want to keep fans on their good side especially after they made a bunch of blind-sided lame ass calls to screw a team out of a close game. Yeah, Donahey you better watch your back!
I don't know the whole story on this Donahey character, but what bothers me is that guys like him are slowly deteriorating the game of basketball because of their greed. Some of the NBA finest players are also included in this category. It's funny how the schemers and gamblers are so shocked when they get caught. They look all sad and worried. Taking such high risks with your career is ignorant especially if it's a sports career. What straight man on earth wouldn't enjoy having such a job position?
David Stern is supposed to be handling this matter with swift and fair penalties. It's time for him to assert more authority and be his foot down on corruption and trouble making before he becomes too short to be seen standing with a microphone at a podium (At press conferences he may even get lost in the shuffle). Too many active members in the league are getting away with too much crap. The illegal activities need to be contained to a certain extent.
Otherwise players and coaches will continue to be at each other's throats, firearms will be brought to stadiums, fights will occur on and off the court, and secret drug distribution networks will still flourish. Refs such as Tim Donahey ought to be ashamed of themselves and take pride in their work. Besides they may want to keep fans on their good side especially after they made a bunch of blind-sided lame ass calls to screw a team out of a close game. Yeah, Donahey you better watch your back!
Friday, July 20, 2007
It's down to 2 dingers: Bonds eyes tying Aaron's record
Usually I wouldn't waste time delving back into the Barry Bonds homerun pursuit. From a historical perspective, however it's worth discussing. See both sluggers have shown how generations have changed drastically. When Hammering Hank set the old record by passing Babe Ruth two eager fans rushed the field and rounded the bases only to be chased down and escorted off the field. Avid fans today will flock on the field when Barry hits that historic mark only they will be searching his back pockets for supplements and syringes.
Of course Barry Bonds has to get close to this major, highly anticipated and discussed record against my favorite team the Chicago Cubs. Why can't he do this against the Rockies, Brewers, or the D-backs? It doesn't effect them as much. Right when the Cubs are hot the Giants had to come in to town with the souped up, bald, big-headed Bonds. Really I don't have anything against the future Hall of Famer....he just seems to rub opposing fans the wrong way sometimes, okay all the time.
Hank Aaron looks to live to see the day his homerun record will be shattered. I don't thinks he really cares that much anymore after all the attention it's got. The fact that he's still alive and well, able to walk is his main concern (God knows the man isn't getting any younger). Then again the day Barry launches that magical homerun ball Hank will watching in the stands, pretends to be smiling and then utter, "That rotten SOB!"
Of course Barry Bonds has to get close to this major, highly anticipated and discussed record against my favorite team the Chicago Cubs. Why can't he do this against the Rockies, Brewers, or the D-backs? It doesn't effect them as much. Right when the Cubs are hot the Giants had to come in to town with the souped up, bald, big-headed Bonds. Really I don't have anything against the future Hall of Famer....he just seems to rub opposing fans the wrong way sometimes, okay all the time.
Hank Aaron looks to live to see the day his homerun record will be shattered. I don't thinks he really cares that much anymore after all the attention it's got. The fact that he's still alive and well, able to walk is his main concern (God knows the man isn't getting any younger). Then again the day Barry launches that magical homerun ball Hank will watching in the stands, pretends to be smiling and then utter, "That rotten SOB!"
Tuesday, July 17, 2007
Griffey Jr. jumps ahead of Frank Robinson on homerun list
With career homer no. 587 last night Ken Griffey Jr. moved into 6th place passing Frank Robinson on the all-time homerun list. Going 4-for-4 with an RBI to help the Reds defeat Atlanta 10-3. Griffey hit his 24th homerun of the season. He's only 15 homers behind Sammy Sosa for his career. What a sensational year the All-Star centerfielder is having! The kid is back!
Before the end of the season he will have over 600 homeruns. There is no doubt in my mind that the superstar slugger will eventually be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Everyone wonders what if for all those years he was injured...well he's still putting up impressive totals despite the number of games he's played. He's just in his mid-30s and looks to have several more seasons left in him.
I'm glad to see extra attention being placed on Griffey instead of all on Bonds because credit and recognition should be given where it's due. The Reds may stink this year, but it's not because of him. Ken is way on his way to more milestones in his career.
Before the end of the season he will have over 600 homeruns. There is no doubt in my mind that the superstar slugger will eventually be inducted into the Hall of Fame. Everyone wonders what if for all those years he was injured...well he's still putting up impressive totals despite the number of games he's played. He's just in his mid-30s and looks to have several more seasons left in him.
I'm glad to see extra attention being placed on Griffey instead of all on Bonds because credit and recognition should be given where it's due. The Reds may stink this year, but it's not because of him. Ken is way on his way to more milestones in his career.
Friday, July 13, 2007
Rickey Henderson returns to MLB as Mets 1B coach
Former Major Leaguer Rickey Henderson is making a return to the Big Leagues...not as an active player, but as the Mets first base coach. This definitely a plus for the New York club loaded with star power and clutch hitters. The 48-year-old holds the Major League record for stolen bases (1406) and will be an excellent baseball adviser to the young talent on the team. His expertise knowledge on the base paths will pay dividends. I can't believe other teams didn't pick him up sooner as either an assistant coach or hitting coach.
It's for certain the Mets can learn patience from the wise star veteran of the past as he accumulated 2200 walks in his career. Don't forget about his ability to hit as well. He had over 120 hits in 13 seasons. That pretty darn good in any era of the game! A few years ago Henderson try to make a comeback with the Dodgers, working through the minor league system in hopes of gaining a spot on the roster. It was cut short as conditioning, health, and age played a big part in his departure.
I know if Rickey had it his way he'd suit up to play, starting sometimes and coming off the bench to fuel rallies late in games. If this happened the Mets would have two active guys available in their mid-to-late 40's. The lineup, however which consists of such names as Shawn Green, Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, and David Wright will gain valuable insight on hitting and playing smart baseball with Henderson around. If the Mets get hot look out Atlanta because they might grab the division for their second straight year.
It's for certain the Mets can learn patience from the wise star veteran of the past as he accumulated 2200 walks in his career. Don't forget about his ability to hit as well. He had over 120 hits in 13 seasons. That pretty darn good in any era of the game! A few years ago Henderson try to make a comeback with the Dodgers, working through the minor league system in hopes of gaining a spot on the roster. It was cut short as conditioning, health, and age played a big part in his departure.
I know if Rickey had it his way he'd suit up to play, starting sometimes and coming off the bench to fuel rallies late in games. If this happened the Mets would have two active guys available in their mid-to-late 40's. The lineup, however which consists of such names as Shawn Green, Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, and David Wright will gain valuable insight on hitting and playing smart baseball with Henderson around. If the Mets get hot look out Atlanta because they might grab the division for their second straight year.
Monday, July 09, 2007
The ESPYs: A night of boasting with celebs getting in their 2-cents worth
The annual ESPYs awards are due up this month and as usual the hype of this show is nonstop airing on ESPN. Yeah, Lebron James will be there so will Tiger Woods, Peyton Manning, Charles Barkley, Magic Johnson, and a cast of other big name stars. I have to wonder how talk show hosts like Jimmy Kimmel however need to be presence. Sure he's a sports fan (nothing wrong with that), but is it necessary to have him start the show again? I'd personally rather see Michael Jordan or a baseball legend host.
For the most part this show just rags on famous sports players by celebrities who are jealous of them or try to make a name for themselves on national television. Such entertainment can't be complete without doing a few dress-up skits where singled-out athletes are poked fun of without going so far as getting slapped with a lawsuit. I can only imagine Barry Bonds showing up to this live event, decked out in a lavish three-piece suit and as he walks to the stage a bag of white substance falls out of his suit's pocket then a few moments later a syringe.
What a way to kill a show in an instance. Trust me after that there will be a loss for words and no one will be lining to shake the San Francisco's slugger hand. Yet fun will be had by all during the ESPYs and the fans will vote for their favorites. One thing will help the show: if any of the Dominican baseball players win an award they need to keep short and sweet. Otherwise the audience won't know what they hell they're talking about. Best luck to the top athletes in all sports!
For the most part this show just rags on famous sports players by celebrities who are jealous of them or try to make a name for themselves on national television. Such entertainment can't be complete without doing a few dress-up skits where singled-out athletes are poked fun of without going so far as getting slapped with a lawsuit. I can only imagine Barry Bonds showing up to this live event, decked out in a lavish three-piece suit and as he walks to the stage a bag of white substance falls out of his suit's pocket then a few moments later a syringe.
What a way to kill a show in an instance. Trust me after that there will be a loss for words and no one will be lining to shake the San Francisco's slugger hand. Yet fun will be had by all during the ESPYs and the fans will vote for their favorites. One thing will help the show: if any of the Dominican baseball players win an award they need to keep short and sweet. Otherwise the audience won't know what they hell they're talking about. Best luck to the top athletes in all sports!
Wednesday, July 04, 2007
Even an old, rich grouch deserves a special day
Well, happy 4th of July everyone. It's a time to celebrate independence for Americans while for others it's a special day to enjoy. Happy Birthday George Steinbreiner! Just another typical day for the Yankees owner except he may splurge a extra bit more other than the usual billions he spends on team payroll. Don't tell me A-Rod or Derek Jeter didn't buy 'Ole George (bag of bones) a lavish gift, perhaps a yacht, private jet, or who knows his own sleazy strip club!
Oh, that's right George probably already holds ownership in those commodities. While others will be setting off fireworks and grilling out today the baseball-minded senior citizen will be blowing up rows of candles on a huge birthday cake which reads, "You might be about to kick the bucket, but you're still rich as hell."
Joe Torre will not forget to express well wishes and greetings (while nonchalantly thanking the Yanks owner for not firing his ass during the Yankees shameful losing drought earlier this season). I guess for those trying to work their way up the ladder in the Yankees organization this is the best day to be 'kissing some ass' (wrinkling, sagging ass I might add). The interns at Yankee Stadium can have bright futures if they play their cards right. Old George don't spend too much on hookers...I mean players and enjoy your special day.
Oh, that's right George probably already holds ownership in those commodities. While others will be setting off fireworks and grilling out today the baseball-minded senior citizen will be blowing up rows of candles on a huge birthday cake which reads, "You might be about to kick the bucket, but you're still rich as hell."
Joe Torre will not forget to express well wishes and greetings (while nonchalantly thanking the Yanks owner for not firing his ass during the Yankees shameful losing drought earlier this season). I guess for those trying to work their way up the ladder in the Yankees organization this is the best day to be 'kissing some ass' (wrinkling, sagging ass I might add). The interns at Yankee Stadium can have bright futures if they play their cards right. Old George don't spend too much on hookers...I mean players and enjoy your special day.
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