NBA opener for Cavs a daunting challenge

Last night the NBA season officially kicked off with the Warriors vs. the Jazz, Spurs vs. Trail Blazers, and Lakers vs. Rockets. Negative light overshadowed one game despite how close it turned out. The real action starts tonight as the Cleveland Cavailers look to show off their strengths against the powerhouse Western conference Dallas Mavericks. The home opener for the Cavs ought to put some extra spring in their step. Since their last game was there in the NBA Finals against San Antonio resulting in a loss they'll want to do their best to make it up to the fans.

Lebron gears up for first game of the season with high hopes for the still young Cleveland squad. Rather than see the superstar put on a scoring clinic it would be great to see the rest of the lineup and bench make big contributions. Lebron averaged 27.5 points last year and isn't worried about scoring. Their main concern is finding a way to shut down the middle and cut off the inside offense from the Mavs. I know Dirk, Terry, and Howard have proved they can hit from the outside, but Cleveland can take their chances with such high volume shooting attempts from beyond the arch.

Cleveland is coming off a remarkable season, pulling out the stops to eliminate the Pistons in the Eastern Conference championship series and go on to face the Spurs in the Finals. Their youth and inexperience caught up with them in route to being defeated. That's okay, but now they can take that experience and build upon it. Coach Mike Brown has done a terrific job in his first 2 seasons with the team. His expertise and knowledge of the game could get them back to the promised land in 07-08. The Cavs have Gooden, Illgauskas, Gibson, Hughes, and Snow returning so the lineup is still the same. I think a bit of restructuring to the bench and few trades will provide a boost. Overall, the Cavaliers remain a top contender in the East.

2007 MLB playoffs so lopsided...World Series a real bore

What a snoring conclusion to the baseball playoffs. The World Series wasn't even close. What has happened to the tense competition in MLB? Boston owned the Series before it even started against the Rockies. It's sad to say, but true. For a team with the hottest streak in baseball Colorado looked out of their element in the 4-game sweep to lose their first ever World Series. I have to admit it took guts, will, and fortitude for them to get that far. I just can't fathom have they go on a 7-0 run in the playoffs, part of a 21-1 record (including the last few weeks of the regular season) then can't win 1 game in the World Series. I guess it wasn't their time.

This year the playoffs didn't leave baseball fans on the edge of their seats. The Phillies, Cubs, and Angels all got sweep in the first round. Then the Diamondbacks were the next victims. To me it's like these teams collapsed after a reaching a pinnacle late in the season or just gave up. Colorado did battle in the WS by to no avail. Instead of seeing a new champion crowned the Red Sox went on to capture their 2nd title in 3 years. I would have rather the underdogs win and the Yankees actually got sweep in the first round by Cleveland (praying for the Cubs to pull off a stunner did absolutely no good).

What the playoffs needed was a good brawl on the field or in the stands with controversy brewing after a corked bat incident. At least then we'd have something to cheer for in order to take our minds off the monotony of another predetermined outcome. I think it's funny how ESPN analyst Jason Starks predicted the Cubs to win it all as they entered the postseason with the worst record (85-78). The Cubs are my favorite team and I knew they were not going to win it. I'm just waiting for the Devil Rays and Pirates to shock the hell out the baseball nation next season after they come back from 20-25 games out of first in their collective divisions and meet in the World Series...yeah fat chance of that ever happening either!!

Big Pappi looks to display power in Coors Field

I know Red Sox fans are jubliated to see the team up 2-0 in the World Series. They whipped the Rockies by a land slide in Game 1 and took control in Game 2 behind a superb pitching performance from Curt Schilling. Youkilis has served an important role in the Sox lineup as the primary first baseman. Tonight, however playing on the road on the Rockies turf David Ortiz will get the nod at first base while his teammate rides the bench. Boston wants to utilize all the power and hitting they have at Coors.

With Manny and Big Pappi in the middle of the order the balls may be flying out of the yard in a hurry! The young guys like Pedoria have set the tone in the early innings, but let it to the big boppers to drive them home. Ortiz completed another stellar regular season with more than 30 dingers and over 120 RBIs. He was an essential part of their run for the World title in 2004, freting the rival Yankees with a few dramatic homeruns late to seal victories for Boston. The big slugger may not see many good pitches in Game 3 against Josh Fogg (10-9). Dice K gets the start for the Sox and many expect his outing to be satisfactory.

Even though I wish both teams well I'd like to see the Rockies win 2 games at least to make the series interesting and send it back to Fenway. Colorado has experienced their greatest winning streak in franchise history and may not get any more opportunties at a World Series for a long time. At the same time if Ortiz cranked 4 homeruns in a game that would be awesome since I don't think any player has accomplished such a feat in the World Series. Dice K will push to give the Red Sox a 3-0 lead as Ramirez and Ortiz bring out the lumber tonight at Coors.

Kevin Durant's sprained ankle won't cut into game opener

The NBA second pick in the draft may not get the as much practice as desired. This week the Sonic's Kevin Durant is out of action with a sprained ankle. The inconvenience will not prevent him from playing in the first game of the season. Unlike the no. 1 pick in the draft, Greg Oden, who will be out for the season after having surgery Durant eyes a full season filled with endless possibilities. He has a bright future ahead of him in the NBA. He has the best shot at receiving rookie of the year honors.

The Supersonics are starting off slow in the preseason with a (1-5) as they lost to the Warriors 126-122 in overtime Tuesday night. Despite the injury Durant finished the game with 21 points. After dealing away Rashad Lewis and Ray Allen Seattle is hurting for some veteran leaders. This team find themselves in a tough Western conference with mediocre competition few and far between. It's still possible management can swing a few good trades during the season and give the Sonics a boost in the second half of the season. Durante will give them scoring, versatility, quickness, and defense.

Red Sox come from behind to win pennant

Once again the Boston Red Sox did the unthinkable: come from behind and advance to the World Series. Down 3-1 in the ALCS against the Indians this team showed just how much heart and will they have to succeed. Last night after the 11-2 win at Fenway Park the celebration erupted. For the 2nd time in 3 years the Red Sox head to the World Series. With 15 hits for the lineup Boston produced most of their runs from the top to middle of the batting order.

Second baseman Dustin Pedroia went 3-for-5 with 5 RBIs in the lead-off spot. Kevin Youkilis followed suit with a 3-hit 2-RBI performance. Dice K pitched 5 strong innings to qualify for the win and allowed 2 runs on 6 hits. Late in the game Mike Lowell added a run from a sacrifice fly. The momentum was solely on Boston's side as they felt the encouragement from the die-heart raucous Fenway crowd.

It's going to be the Red Sox and Rockies for the World title. What a matchup it's going to be with baseball two hottest teams finishing out the regular season in September. Fans will see if Colorado can keep their streak intact (21-1) at least for one more game. The Sox have the more power-driven lineup and stellar rotation and bullpen, but with the Rockies sizzling in the playoffs anything can happen. I do believe the extra time off the field will effect Colorado. Who knows...they be refreshed and better than ever. Congratulations to the Red Sox for clinching the pennant and reach the World Series again!

Red Sox hang on, Beckett helps wrap up 7-1 win

The Boston Red Sox breathe new life going into Friday night's game trailing 3-1 in the series. It was all Josh Beckett last night he had commanding stuff on the mound. He pitched 8 innings of 5-hit 1-run baseball while striking out 11. The middle of Boston order provided the offense as Kevin Youkilis smacked a 3-run homer in the lst innings off C. C. Sabathia. David Ortiz hit two sacrifice flies in the winning effort. The Red Sox out hit the Indians 12-6 in Game 5. Boston still has to win the next two games in route to the World Series.

Winning on the road isn't a problem for the Red Sox, but the way Cleveland has played at home it's going to be a tough grind for the opposition. The young teams have flourished in the playoffs this October. There doesn't appear to be any pressure on them and they just take games in strides. Much of it has to do with great team chemistry and the ability to execute during crunch time. Carmona is expected to face Curt Schilling on Saturday for Game 6. Both of the AL competitors are loaded with talent yet I'm pulling for Schilling to help the Sox notch another win and stay alive.

If the Sox are going to turn it around and come from behind to take the series David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez must be active in the lineup and avoid being non-factors (which they rarely are especially in the ALCS). If there is an edge for Boston it's their experience with veteran talent. Although, so far such an asset has already proved to be irrelevant. Whichever team goes to play the Rockies in the World Series it's sure to be memorable and historic. I wouldn't mind on the other hand seeing a few dramatic homeruns from Big Pappi to make the final games interesting.

As if buying the Cubs isn't enough Cuban now wants Kobe too.

I'm not sure exactly what goes through an owner's mind. They explore possibilities and offers extended their way, but sometimes the money truly goes to their head. Reports show that Mavs' owner, Mark Cuban is interested in a possible trade to acquire Kobe Byrant. The passionate sports nut keeps dreaming up their outlandish proposals. He's planned already to put a bid on the Cubs franchise (odds are dead set against him). Why does he believe he can pull a deal for Byrant when there is no clear indication the superstar will be leaving the Lakers?

The Mavericks have experience great seasons in the past 5 years yet it has to suck getting knocked off by the Golden State Warriors in the first round in the 2006-07 NBA playoffs. Former Dallas coach, Don Nelson really stuck it to Cuban in that series! Anyway, I don't see Mark Cuban as a man of power in the NBA. He doesn't have any pull in the league. All anyone sees him doing is running around the sidelines, squawking at the refs and serving as a distraction. Sure he's a passionate and energetic fan, but what does that amount to when it comes time to get down to brass tax and wheel and deal?

Kobe may not even wish to play for the Mavs. I don't see Dirk, Howard, or him co-existing when it comes to scoring chances and getting enough touches. That would definitely cause friction. If the elite superstar just moved over to San Fran and joined the Warriors he might get to play for a championship contender. I know that would piss Cuban off. Then when the playoffs rolled around again history would repeat itself with the Mavericks owner left with a sour taste in his mouth.

Rockies a win away from heading to the World Series

What a remarkable season it's been for the wildcard-clinching Colorado Rockies. No one expected them to be in NL West race or clinch the playoffs. Now they're only a win away from the World Series. Up 3-0 they're putting all the pressure on the Diamondbacks, who now who what it feels like to be a hole. No NL team in history has came back down 3-0 in the League Championship series. Last night the hero for Colorado, playing the cold rain was Yorvit Torrealba. His 3-run homer in the 6th broke the 1-1 tie and was the difference in the game. Matt Holiday is a big part of the Rockies run in the playoffs and the regular season.

I'm amazed at the Rockies hot streak. They're 20-1 counting the last few weeks of the regular season and the playoffs. I don't remember the last time any MLB team pulled off such a feat. Not to be denied the Rockies are on a mission for to capture their first World Series title. They remind of the 2004 Red Sox team except they don't have the veteran talent that team possessed. If they end up playing Boston in the World Series it's going to be record-breaking, but it will most definitely be an uphill battle.

Tonight Game 4 gets underway as Arizona starts Micah Owings against the Rock's Franklin Morales, two virtually unknowns duking it out in a huge deciding contest. I'm pushing for the Rockies because they deserve a shot in the World Series. If Todd Helton and Matt Holiday along with the rest of the lineup can get the Rockies on the scoreboard early they have a great chance at getting the sweep. From there the underdogs can rest and wait to see who their opponent will be in the World Series. Give 'em hell Rockies!!

Knicks make investment in Zach Randolph, still pray for miracle in 2008

Certainly basketball fans aren't much concerned about what the New York Knicks are doing this off-season (unless you actively root for the team). All the controversy and attention surrounding Isiah Thomas hasn't lowered the negative spotlight on the franchise, he's only intensified it. With hope in their corner the Knicks acquired forward Zach Randolph from the Portland Trailblazers. This must be a relief for the star forward who's gone from one struggling team out west to another with too much turmoil existence before the 07-08 seasons has even started.

I can't fault Knicks management for wanted to improve and continue to rebuild the franchise, but another scorer is just one piece to the puzzle. Basketball spectators in Madison Square Garden witnessed first hand why this team slided and collapsed throughout last season: defense. Trying outscore each opponent without good defense is impossible. Gone are the days where Charles Oakley, Anthony Mason, and Patrick Ewing roamed the court as revered fierce defenders. The youth movement has to take affect and learn how to create turnovers and be active on the glass.

Stephon Marbury if he's still on the team will be the team leader. He has a quick handle on the ball and has become a better defender. Steve Francis and him make a nice one-two guard punch. They can utilize their speed, agility, and experience to help the Knicks win. I still don't see them making the playoffs unless they pull several more quality off-season acquisitions. Jamal Crawford has shown a lot of promise and ought to be a pick me up for the team. Finding another reputable coach with a successful track record will be a big plus too.

Mark Cuban believes he bleeds Cubbie blue

This whole baseball season and playoff experience had proved to be a real sham for me. That's right I'm a Cubs fan. The horrors on the baseball field I've witnessed are etched into my brain. All I've heard about off and on this year is that the Chicago Tribune announced during the season they were going to sell the Cubs franchise and chose to depart ways...the easy way out. Obviously, the nationally acclaimed company didn't want to commit anymore. All of a sudden now everyone is pulling for Mark Cuban to buy out the team. That's fine, but for the time being as fans let's allow some other names to surface who also may be interested in ownership.

Before I go into the Cuban story I have to share my take on the Chicago franchise's history and what I've seen in my 15 years as a Cubs fan. First of all, getting swept by the no-name yet talented D-backs in the playoffs sucked big time and never should've happened. The players better be hard on themselves for letting this golden opportunity slip away and once again disappointing the faithful bleacher bums through their dismal performances. They did try and that does count for something I guess, however it looked like none of the players were on the same page for most of the year. The highs and lows were there too with the adversity rising with each game. The power hitters just didn't produce when needed.

What is so stupefying is the past years I've followed this year and the numerous chances they've squandered to win a championship. 2003 was one of the worst to watch. Everything was working in the Cubs favor until that dreaded Game 5 of the NLCS. Being 5 outs from going to the World Series was mind blowing when they let the Marlins storm back to win 3 straight and close out that series. The notorious Bartman didn't cost them the series they simply shutdown and failed to execute. Everything became too much of a mental game for the Cubs. In 1999 against the Braves in the division series it wasn't quite as bad, but it ended with the same outcome. Back in 1989 the Giants got the best of the Cubs and took control of the NLCS. Will Clark's long ball sealed it. Ryno and Mark Grace deserved to win a World Series title with Chicago, but never did because of failed chances by the entire team.

I'm glad another sports owner is interested in buying the franchise. I realize Mark Cuban is passionate and an energetic guy, standing behind his Mavericks no matter what. For some reason I don't see him as the best match to represent this baseball club. Sure he's experienced and a die-heart fan, but will he look out for this struggling franchise's best interests? He comes off as arrogant and superior sometimes to me and I think that rubs people the wrong way...of course that may be just how I see him. If he does become the new owner at least he'll be active (making deals, running around the stadium, cheering, etc.).

The problem I see the Cubs encountering with Cuban is him trying to make up for loss times by signing popular players to outrageous contracts, thinking this will be the solution to long standing offensive droughts. For him make the Cubs a success he will have to find a way to get a group of talented players to be in sync and have great chemistry together on the field. Otherwise fans will have to bear more of the same horrific, desolate seasons. There is a reason why teams like the RedSox have elevated their game to new highs. It's because they know how to perform in the clutch as a group and conquer success!

The Cubs are the longest standing club without a World Series title, now moving toward a century mark!! This ought to bother both fans and player as well as the owner and GM instead of shrugging it off as if it's no big deal. Mark Cuban will be expected to make great strides and do something to motivate this franchise to win a championship. How he plans on pulling this feat off I don't know if he becomes an owner. One thing is for sure, the legendary organization can't ignore history.

Ortiz, Ramirez guide Red Sox to ALCS

It's been a fun week for the Boston RedSox. Their energy and powerful lineup had them open the AL division with a bang. They put the pressure on the Angels and gave them no breathing room. David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez delivered with big homeruns in Game 3 to put them ahead and powered Boston to a sweep. Curt Schilling was a big part of the deciding win yesterday as well. He pitched 7 quality innings and finished with 4 strikeouts in the 9-1 victory. There was no offensive shortages for the Red Sox as they swung hard and scored early in the series they seemed to have wrapped around their fingers.

With a 3-game sweep of the worn down Angels the Red Sox have a few days to rest before meeting their upcoming opponents. It looks like the Indians will meet them in the league championship series. The Yankees prolonged the series with a win yesterday, but trail 2-1. Anything is possible, but I don't see the Evil Empire winning three straight games. Travis Hafner, Grady Sizemore, and Victor Martinez lead the way for Cleveland and look to continue to do further offensive damage. Congrads to the Red Sox of reaching the ALCS! An Indians vs. Red Sox clash to reach the World Series will be an enthralling matchup.

Rockies on natural high heading into first round playoff series

So it turns out the Colorado Rockies were the hottest team in baseball in the final two weeks of the season, posting a 14-1 mark in the final 15 games. Who would thought the Rockies would have took the NL by storm and finished with a 90-73 record overall. This gutsy young team beat out the Mets, Padres, and Braves for the wildcard. This is a historic year for the franchise, marking their first ever postseason appearance. Also, this is the first time the Rockies, Phillies, and Cubs all clinched the playoffs together.

I know one guy who's happy and finally relieved. That's Todd Helton, the corner stone of the franchise. He's been with the club since 1995. Long has the veteran gold glove-winning first baseman waited for this day. He's followed by a talented group of teammates which include the slugging Matt Holiday (up for MVP honors), lead-off hitter Kaz Matsui, starting pitcher Jeff Francis, and rising star Garrett Atkins. What's surprising about this team is there ranked 2nd in runs scored in the NL, and won several 1-run games.

Philadelphia would be welcoming ground for these Rockies. They'll have to depend more on their starters and bullpen to survive the series. Cole Hamels (15-5) makes the start in Game 1 vs. the Rockies Jeff Francis (17-5). Jimmy Rollins and homerun hitting Ryan Howard are the main keys to the Phillies' offense. Second baseman Chase Utley has known to be a run producing igniter as well. For Colorado, Todd Helton needs to step up and deliver in the clutch with his teammates helping to build early leads for their starter pitchers. The division series is shaped up to be a classic confrontation. Good luck to both teams!

MLB Playoff Matchups

The baseball playoffs are only a day away with great matchups in store for the fans. In the AL Boston takes on Anaheim. This series showcases a good cast of power hitters and plenty of dynamic, young pitching. David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez carry the torch for the Red Sox, leading the hit parade while the Angels represent the West featuring Vladmir Guerrero, Garret Anderson, and former Red Sox player Orlando Cabrera. There will also be good pitcher matchups in the series, John Lackey vs. Josh Beckett, Jered Weaver vs. Dice K, probably Curt Schilling vs. Kelvin Escobar.

In the other AL series the Yankees will face the Indians. This 2007 Cleveland team took the league by storm and ran up a comfortable lead in the division. They're got a talented group of young players such as C. C. Sabathia, Travis Hafner, and Casey Blake. The energetic club must contend with a yet again powerhouse Yankees club which rode a high wave towards the end of the season. A-Rod is sure to drill a couple shots into the bleachers and be the top run producer. Mariano Riveria is a reliable closer, but is shown to be shaky at times this year. Look for the Tribe to wear out the Yankees' bullpen. They'll have to string together every bit of offense they can muster in key situations.

Over in the NL it's set that the Cubs will meet the Diamondbacks starting Wednesday in Arizona. This series could get away from either team if momentum stirs solely in one direction and guys get hot. Alfonso Soriano is on a tear, smashing 14 homeruns in September. Zambrano and Lilly are the key guys in the rotation and are expected to give the Cubs leverage to gain a series lead. Brandon Webb will pitch in Game 1 vs. Zambrano as will rely on his young, versatile lineup to find way to manufacture runs. It's going to be an exciting series.

The Phillies clinched the NL East title and await their opponent as the Rockies and Padres duel it out today in a wildcard tie-breaker (I hope Colorado wins...they have waited a long time for this chance). Baseball fans check out news and notes at Phillies Insider.com. Ryan Howard will leave his mark on the series in some fashion with a veteran rotation laying in the balance. The 2007 playoffs feature new teams yet familiar faces, ready to fulfill their dreams of capturing a World Series title.