Instant Replay, a good system to prevent umpires from throwing games

I know there has been talk about reinstating Instant Replay into baseball. Umpires can't be trusted when it comes to calling a close play. In fact sometimes they are intent on speeding the game up as strike zones widen, potential base stealers are cheated, and nail-biting moments are ruined when a curving fly ball is signaled foul when it's actually fair, changing the entire course of a game and screwing one team over royally. Besides that a fair and balanced reinforcement is needed to counter any doubts about a controversial play. The umpires miss the direction of a ball and have to form a meeting on the field and start thinking it causes trouble. Just like in the NBA I'm sure betting goes on amongst some officials and they plan on how to screw hitters at the plate in pivotal game situations.

Sometimes I think it comes down to umpires not being able to see worth a crap and just guessing. Such lousy officiating doesn't fly with fans. As a matter of fact it's one reason to throw trash on the field. Plus all those overweight umpires will benefit from Instant Replay. That way they can save their own butt by not paying attention, looking into the stands or sneaking a candy bar or hamburger out of their pocket during the middle of live action. I'm in favor of Instant Replay. It can help teams pushing for a run late in the season win close games. Plus come playoff time it will enable underdog teams not to get screwed as much on bang-bang plays and less likely have key players getting ejected from guys after calling the home umpire a fat, blind $%&*@! Take it from the game will be much better off.

Altercation with Astros GM not good for clubhouse morale

I don't think certain athletes can ever put personal issues aside and get along with their coaches. The Astros Shawn Chacon really put his baseball career in jeopardy. I understand players get frustrated and angry with teammates and coaches yet a clear thinking person knows when they're going too far. Chacon didn't care about injuring or hospitalizing Astros GM Ed Wade by grabbing him by the neck and throwing him to the ground. I don't see why the Astros will bother keeping the pitcher around or if any of his teammates want him around. I think this incident effects clubhouse morale and creates too much negativity compared to the tussles earlier this year with Red Sox's Manny Ramirez and Kevin Youkilis or the D-Rays pitcher/catcher scrape between Matt Garza and Dioner Navarro.

It's stupid yet kind of amusing when players on crappy teams get mad and fight because they misinterpret a signal. They should be paying closer attention to their coach's direction to avoid swinging on a 2-0 thinking it was a hit-and-run as they hit into an inning ending double play instead of a sacrifice bunt to move a runner into scoring position. The same mishap could happen in a dugout after a batter is steamed, slamming his bat into his intended target the wall yet is rather bounces off a water cooler and hits a teammate in the groin. At that point it's no one about the score, being slaughtered 22-0. Players who have issues with one another need to take it out in the parking lot after everyone leaves if they can work out differences by talking.

I don't see how the Astros will have their spirits uplifted after the altercation Shawn Chacon primarily is responsible for or have any sort of positive impact on the Astros' performance. The best thing to do is fined him then drop him like a bad habit. Nobody needs such crazy behavior like that around in a clubhouse. Since the way the confrontation was described as an assault I wouldn't be surprised if the Astros GM filed a lawsuit. So far there are no reports or indication that steroids was linked to the aggressive mean streak. I think the prelude to the manager, player fight will be opposing mascots dishing out punches on the field. If it ever spreads into the seats it may pose a long game delay as stadium security scramble to contain the fracas.

Shaq talks too much trash in rap song, deserves to be admonished

Well, to my dismay another basketball player has fell out of grace in the public's eye. There was a time I admired Shaquille O'Neal. His performance and influence on the court were inspiring. Realizing his pro career is on the verge of waning out he has to come out with a rap song ridiculing Kobe Bryant to incite negative publicity (mainly for himself). First of all, Shaq needs to find another hobby or way to make money because he can't rap worth a sh*t! Believe me I've seen the video footage and it's not platinum material. Surely anyone can write more sensibly lyrics than the junk he came up with. Besides that what the hell did Kobe ever do to him?

I detect a bit of jealousy here... don't let the fans remind you if it weren't for Dwayne Wade your ass wouldn't have a championship ring with the Miami Heat. The same goes for Kobe Byrant, who was as big a factor in the Lakers' title runs as anyone. Don't make me take off the gloves, Shaq, BECAUSE YOU WON'T LIKE THAT! I'm not even a Kobe fan, but damn even I can admit he's a great athlete, arguable the best player in the NBA today and carried the Lakers to the Finals this year. Yeah, his team got blown out in the deciding Game 5, but I'm sure the whole team accepts responsibility for their scoring drought and inability to slow down the Celtics' attack. At least Kobe showed class and demonstrated sportsmanship at the end. Unlike you Shaq he doesn't go around talking sh*t to the media and rapping mindless, childish songs about how you think you're superior to him and asks him to taste you filthy butt hole. I can't believe it, but he's one sick, twisted freak!

All I can say is Shaq is off my top 10 favorite players now. To think he'd act so childish over a burnt out, over exaggerated feud. An Arizona police sheriff got so upset over Shaq's stupid behavior that he is stripping the honorary deputy badges given to the big fella through their police training program. Apparently, the publicity stunt with the rap song made him feel bad about being a wrong judge of character and didn't want Shaq to be linked anymore with his police department. I can't say that I blame him. It's time for him to put an end to all this hating and don't even think about releasing that rap album because nobody wants to buy it.

Teixeira lights it up against M's with 3 homers

The old Mark Teixeira has resurfaced. With the Braves trying to keep pace in the NL East they need all the extra power in the lineup possible. Luckily for them though they were facing the worst team in baseball at the moment in the Seattle Mariners. Behind 7 strong innings from Tim Hudson and Teixeira's pop (3 HR, 4 RBIs) at the plate the Braves went to triumph 8-3. With Chipper Jones absence due to injury Atlanta have a reliable hitter to fill the void. Catcher Brian McCain has the best average as regular starter without Jones in the lineup at .310. He also smacked a homerun in the 4th inning, his 14th of the season.

The main veteran leader now is Mark Teixeira who will be expected to be up the slack until the Braves other star slugger returns. Improving to 38-39 the Braves are 4 games back in the division. If they can hang up until the All-Star with Chipper vying for a Triple Crown this season ( 16 HR, 46 RBIs, .393 AVG ) they probably need extra pitching in their rotation to compete with the Mets and Phillies. Although Teixeira may not be voted into the All-Star game he's going to have an impact on the Braves run down the stretch. He's well on his way to a banner year!

MLB managers given the heave ho, clubs can't accept lack of talent for dismal play

Nobody likes a rotten apple in any group who's trying to be productive. For baseball teams who are sucking and stinking up the field blaming the manager all the time isn't right. Fans know poor performance when they see it and will vouch for coaches they respect, the ones clearly giving it their best. This week three managers got fired and were sent packing. First in line was Mets skipper Willie Randolph who received so much praise two years ago for leading the franchise to the playoffs and ousting the Braves for first place in the NL East. I guess that bit of significant history was forgotten as well as his morale with the players.

Why are the Mets so unsatisfied now? Just be patient and work out a few deals by the trade deadline. It's not like the Braves are going to take the division by storm again. Look, take a chill pill Mets management, step back and realize you can actually beat the other prestigious New York team which will be slammed with more scrutiny after loses. Plus get off your high horse and dish out the money for extra talent, tightwads. Their season could be going far worse such as with the Seattle Mariners. Their coach, John McLaren almost went off the deep end because he couldn't take the crappy play and negative attitudes around the clubhouse. The Mariners are dead last in the AL West and have the worst record in baseball at 26-47. Everyone within the clubhouse ought feel responsible for this nose-dive catastrophic tailspin in the first half of the season.

Poor John McLaren was so incensed and lost for direction with this club he vented his frustrations and anger in a live press conference unleashing a series of obscenities to get his point across to the media. Basically, what he was saying through the bleeped out words of emotion was: I can't put up with this sh*t anymore, I know damn well a miracle isn't in the works so get off my back. It's a shame managers in these situations have to be singled out and be the first ones to go. The third manager to get the boot was John Gibbons by the Blue Jays. Okay, this team is starting to piss me off! First they carelessly let former All-Star veteran and keen slugger Frank Thomas walk out the door, not caring to compromise with his lack of at-bats or giving a drop of crap about his contract. Then they're going to complain about being a potentially last place team and having no shot at the postseason. With that kind of mind set and attitude I'm sure they will despite it's only June and the team is just 5 games under .500 (35-40). Yes, they're in a tough division, but whining about it won't get them anywhere.

Sometimes there are no win situations in a managerial position. No matter what decisions are made teams fall apart one way or another. Unfortunately, it normally results with the skipper taking the plunge and having to find a new job. The older guys who's been around the block are used to taking the thumps and rolling with the punches. Former Phillie and Cub player, Larry Bowa even knew during periods in his coaching career that he was a defeated man, realizing he failed to deliver on his part and saved time by firing himself twice (Had no idea this was even possible or anyone felt so guilty for losing, but apparently it happened). That is one irrational, thought provoking way to stick it to an organization and cut ties with them. With tortured souls like McLaren in Seattle I have to believe after he received the old pink slip he had a few choice words: Up Yours!

KG's ecstatic celebratory rambling, a priceless live NBA moment

I've got to hand it to those remarkable Boston Celtics who were determined throughout the season and played with so much heart and athleticism in the Finals. It was no doubt in my mind they would be NBA champions before the historic series got underway with the Lakers. In fact Game 5 was a blowout much to the satisfaction of Boston fans and a surprise to everyone else. The highlight of the night for me though was KG's celebration speech or their lack of on live national TV. I thought the first question he'd be asked was, "KG now that you've won the Finals what do you plan to do? His response:

"Baby, I'm gonna party like it's 1999 drinking champagne and go bligging it up all night on the town with my fabulous ring. Oh yeah, I'm going to DISNEY WORLD! I'd also like to give a shout out to those bums managing the Minnesota Timberwolves, HOW DO YOU LIKE ME NOW B*TCHES! I finally gonna get my NBA title, no thanks to you dumb !*&$#! Oh, how sweet it is baby!"

Of course this isn't quite the reaction I'd hoped for personally. Rather he was so overjoyed he just lost control and kept shouting, "Top of the World, top world....top of the world baby! Woooooo!" So filled with emotion Garnett was partially lost for words and shared the spotlight with former Boston Great Bill Russell. Next to the much younger lean, mean rebounding machine Russell looked like an old white-haired dinosaur. He's still one of the greatest of all-time though. Since the top scorer in the series, Paul Pierce got such little camera time it was the All-Star Celtics forward's night. Moments like that in sports are priceless. At least he basked in the glory of victory in a respectable manner. Good for you KG, you've earned it.

Ken Griffey Jr. right for the D-Rays?

I heard about Ken Griffey Jr. being traded off and on for the past 4-5 years and he's yet to relocate. For young, motivated team in particular believes the superstar is right for the picking now. The Tampa Bay Devil Rays are actually in the hunt for the playoffs in '08. More widely known as the underachieving D-Rays that other teams used to beat and batter with ease. Those days are over as they're playing inspired ball trailing only the Red Sox in the AL East and are in the market for a veteran hitter. However, will this potential deal give Tampa Bay the edge to counter the fierce AL contenders?

First it's a tantalizing offer for Junior as he's had few opportunities to reach the playoffs since leaving the Mariners in 1998. Then again it all depends how whether he has faith in the franchise and wants to move to Florida. His batting average is down this year, hovering at .245 yet still possesses the power to fuel a team's offense. Personally, I'd like to see Griffey stay in the NL though I know he's probably be a good fit for the D-Rays. Him hitting in the middle of the order and available to be used as the DH could benefit them in a great way.

The veteran slugger's presence and bat won't be enough without a few other quality starting pitchers. Plus I hate to say it being a Griffey fan and all, but the D-Rays have to consider the devastating injury possibilities. With a history of ailments he could go down at the worst time right before playoff time and slow down their stride. With any deal almost a risk is involved and the D-Rays will have to be relentless regardless in their run for late season success and postseason emergence.

Interleague Play: hot weekend matchups

Good baseball matchups are on tap this weekend as Interleague Play kicks off. A few first-time meetings between teams occur. Boston aims to maintain their AL East supremacy facing the Reds. Justin Masterson (3-0) takes the hill against Aaron Harang (2-9). With Ken Griffey Jr. already making history with his 600th homerun the Reds will try to avoid being bushwhacked in the 3-game series. The Yankees pray that Joba Chamberlain brings the heat in the opener on the road in Houston. Lance Berkman and company look to go for the long ball and improve to 34-34 after slowing down a bit. Yankees skipper Joe Giradi is finding out quick how difficult managing will be this season in a tenacious AL East.

In another highly anticipated series, the Marlins take on the D-Rays. It most likely will be a battle of pitching changes. Which ever team overuses their bullpen will lose the series. Tampa Bay is 24-10 at home and isn't back down from any competition. Expect them to sting Marlins pitching with an array of line drives. The Dodgers vs. Tigers series won't be one filled with dramatics yet a scrape between two struggling clubs. With trade rumors going around involving the Dodgers they'll wish they had at least another veteran to combatant the Tigers' star power and relentless attack.

The best team in baseball, the Chicago Cubs look to extend a 4-game winning streak heading into Toronto and continue their pace to set a new franchise record. They'll have maintain their confident stride without the injured Alfonso Soriano. A.J. Burnett (5-6) better hopes is curveball is on point because the Cub bats will be ready to rock his world. Interleague action only getting underway with scorching months ahead. Which teams will reign supreme by the All-Star break? For once it looks like it won't be those overrated Yankees.

Ken Griffey Jr. launches 600th homerun, sets milestone

With a usual sparse home crowd the Florida Marlins fell victim to baseball history. Ken Griffey Jr. with all eyes on him to reach a new milestone his career hit a 2-run blast in the lst inning off Mark Hendrickson. His 600th homerun put him 6th on the all-time list. The Reds went to win the game 9-4 as Griffey moves within 6 homeruns of Sammy Sosa. Everyone knows what the veteran slugger was capable of doing if not for all those injuries in years past. His career totals are more than enough to get him into the Hall of Fame after he retires. Playing 9 years in Cincy Griffey has yet to enter the postseason or have a chance to win a World Series.

As a overlooked club in the NL Central the Reds are 33-30 and nipping at the heels of the Brewers. It's possible for them to make a run before the All-Star break. Without the one of better rotations in the league they'll have to rely on the offense to carry them. Ken Griffey Jr. is on his way to another 30-35 homer season and draw closer to 3,000 hits. This season he's churned out 7 homeruns and 29 RBIs in 219 at-bats. Off to a good pace fans just want to see Griffey play and stay healthy.

Since I've always been a Griffey fan from his early days in Seattle I'd like to see him play in the playoffs. He deserves to at least have a shot at a World Series title before he hangs it up. At 38, the odds are against him catching Babe Ruth's historic mark of 714 round trippers. Then again, it's Junior so don't count him out yet!

M's Hernandez shuts out Red Sox 8-0

Fortunately the Seattle Mariners collected an easy win against a brawl-battered Red Sox team. Friday night after suspensions were issued to Red Sox and Devil Ray players for the bench-clearing melee this week Seattle took advantage facing a less potent lineup. Both Manny and Ortiz were out of action. At Fenway Park there wasn't much to cheer about as Hernandez held Boston to 6 hits and 0 runs while walking 3 batters in 6 innings. Coco Crisp got the start to centerfield for the Red Sox, who apparently will serve his suspension next week for charging the mound and throwing punches in the Devil Rays game.

Richie Sexson went 3-for-4 for the M's with 2 RBIs as part of the lineup's 11 hits. Ichiro drove in 2 runs with a single. Their offense finally sprung to life after a series of petty performances on the field. At 22-39 Seattle has the worst record in baseball. Due to this along with the club's lack of team effort, blunders, and misfortune prompted Coach John McLaren to go on a verbal tirade filled with profanities in a press conference earlier in the week. He later apologized for his choice of words, realizing his conduct was inappropriate yet was so fed up with describing the team's crummy play on the field he just lost it. I can understand his frustration and anger when players aren't producing and everything is going wrong. He knows his job is on the line and there are things he can't control. Letting off some steam back in the clubhouse and yelling at his players probably provided relief and broke the tension.

Even the loss at home Boston remains in first place in the East and won't back down from any challenge. They have a new rival this season in Tampa Bay creating more than friction and crossed words. Until Ortiz returns from the DL it's going to be a sizzling summer month where the Red Sox must try to check their emotions in check. They have a formidable rotation yet how well will the offense hold up until the All-Star break? Following the series against Seattle they'll meet up with the Orioles at home for 3 games. From there they'll bring out the lumber and look to go yard!

A tribute to Randy Johnson, the strikeout king

The history of the game would not be the same without Randy Johnson. I remember the days when he mowed down hitters while pitching for the Seattle Mariners. His tall, imposing presence on the mound shook up opponents. The best highlight of his career in my opinion was when he helped lead the M's alongside Ken Griffey Jr. past the Yankees in the ALCS during the late 90's. He's was so dominant that he was used in relief one game in the playoff series. Man, did Randy kick serious ass back then! There is no doubt the veteran southpaw set the standard for strikeout pitchers in baseball.

Yesterday he captured a historic mark in a game against the Brewers. He whiffed 8 batters in 6 innings to gain his 4,680 career strikeout. Randy Johnson (click for career stats) can still muster up the power and maintain good control at 49 when the average pitcher's career has long been over at that age. He's second on the all-time record in baseball now passing Roger Clemens. Despite recording the loss (starting lineup's fault) in the 7-1 yesterday route Johnson is well on his way to the Hall of Fame when his career ends. Plus he has a World Series title to his credit with the Diamondbacks. Congrads to Randy on reaching a new milestone in his career!

Red Sox demonstrate public display of affection while dusting off Orioles

When it comes to celebrating a victory after leaving an opponent with the bitter taste of defeat the Boston Red Sox are kings. Their 9-4 smackdown on the Orioles Sunday seemed that of a joy ride which ended with a heartfelt hug between Manny Ramirez and Julio Lugo (who appears to be in heaven) at the mound. This proves Major Leaguers are in touch with their feelings, carefree with emotion even after destroying a team's chance at a comeback by launching 3 homeruns (Ramirez, Drew, and Lowell) and having their starter go 6 quality innings. Luckily for the Red Sox Ortiz had the game off and didn't join in the playful camaraderie on the field.

Having the big DH hitter squeeze a teammate could result in a few cracked ribs or spinal cord. I can see why the Red Sox are all smiles, owning a 35-24 record. It's good to see the players can get up close and personal for once without allegation arising over HGH, steroids, or Viagra. That or how much they enjoy taking showers together in the clubhouse and what really happens in the trainer's room after hours....oh I'm sure it's only harmless fun! Enjoying their success in the month of May Boston looks to recapture first place from the D-Rays in the AL East. They'll close out their series today with Baltimore before heading home to face the D-Rays and Mariners.

Celtics vs. Lakers title showdown, a classic confrontration

The sky hook was a key highlight of the Lakers, Celtics battles for the NBA titles in the 60-80's. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar started the tradition then it was Magic Johnson taking the daring athletic shot into the teeth of the Lakers' defense. The 1-on-1 matchups made the championship series great. Such encounters included Russell vs. Chamberlain, McHale vs. Kareem, Bird vs. Magic, plus John Havlecik and Jerry West being key star performers making outstanding plays in route to an NBA title. The tense overtime games, sights, and legends are became part of basketball championship history.

Shaping up for another rematch from decades ago the Lakers have already advanced to the NBA Finals as the Celtics are up 3-2 on the Pistons awaiting their chance at destiny. With a win tonight they could start a new dynasty, adding to a new chapter in the Lakers and Celtics long-time rivalry. The two main stars which will come forth in the potential Finals clash will none other than Kobe Byrant and Paul Pierce. Sorry KG, I know you helped turn the franchise around this year, but you will be part of the supporting cast though will make significant contributions. The same goes for Paul Gasol for Los Angeles. His size alone and ability to score inside won't take the spotlight off the superstar running the show. I have to admit guard Jordan Farmar is a heck of a player, adds so much energy off the bench, but based reserves off the bench Boston has more depth and experience.

Bringing up the matchup between these two teams I have to mention Lamar Odom and Ray Allen. Two of the best veteran scorers in the league, which play second keel to the top players on their teams. Allen shoots over 34% from beyond the arc and is an valuable guy to have on the free-throw line during crunch time. The Laker power forward Odom is a threat from the inside and tends to slip the ball to teammates on the inside and catch defenders by suprise by dishing off while in the lane. With such a powerful, equally talented showcase this anticipated Finals showdown will be a coin toss. If I had to bet on one team it would be the Celtics. Their starting 5 I feel exceed the scoring averages of the Lakers. Plus Boston is such a driven, strong-willed team at home I think the fans could summon the ghost of Bill Russell and Bob Cousy to pull of a historic comeback win.

Avery Johnson out of a coaches box and straight into a Nissan

What is it with former sports players and car dealerships? The attraction seems inevitable. For ex- Mavericks coach Avery Johnson it's becoming a new investment venture. After being fired as the Mavericks lost in the first round of the Western conference playoffs Johnson has since started his own Nissan dealership in Northern Texas. Refusing to wait around for any coaching position the former NBA guard came up with a smart business plan to take advantage one of Americans greatest weaknesses: cars. There is no quicker way to sucker people out of their money than to sell cars.

I have to give Avery kudos for this endeavor. Sure he's only around 5' 7 and never dunked a basketball in his life yet that doesn't mean he can't be one hell of a salesman. For all I know he could sell manure to a Texas farmers (especially in Crawford to anybody like Ole' not-headed W). Good to see Mark Cuban couldn't take the stride out of Avery's step. Starting the Nissan business is a way to say, in your face douchebag! I think Avery will do a fine job with his natural enthusiasm, good natured attitude, and southern accent. Avery Johnson could shoot a promo with a cowbody hat on claiming he's slashing prices left and right. After customers arrive on the lot he'd then be able to stick it to them on charging high prices for add-on features.

The following is an example of how a commercial would go:

"Hey there, this is Avery Johnson. I invite everyone to my Nissan dealership for our grand opening! Brand new makes and models are available. We'll deliver imports to your home or office. Bad credit, no credit no problem. We have short-term and long-term low financing. If you don't cash now that's a problem. Whether you're looking for a family, economy, or off-roadster we've got it all and special discounts to boot. Plus we do trade-ins on all brands even those that are broken down. So y'all come on down to Johnson's Nissan and check out these great deals while inventory is fully stocked. We guarantee customer satisfaction, saddling you in right with a new ride partner!"

D-Rays making noise, take over first place in AL East

Of all the teams in MLB I would have never expected the Tampa Bay Devil Rays to jump out to such a hot start. This low-tier team is putting the Yankees and Orioles to shame. Sunday a comeback was in the works as the Rays' finished with a dramatic outcome against Baltimore. Evan Longoria hit a game-winning RBI double to center scoring Carlos Pena. Starting pitcher James Shields pitched 8 innings, yielding 3 earned runs on 8 hits and a walk. Putting a 2 spot on the scoreboard in the 6th from an RBI single by Melvin Mora then a solo homer by Aubrey Huff the Orioles tied the game at 4. The D-Rays got to the Orioles bullpen in the 9th while Troy Percival nabbed his first win of the season.

I'm impressed to see such an underdog team standing tall in a fierce division. Having a 30-20 record coming into Memorial Day is quite an improvement. In the past Tampa Bay would already be considered out of any race and on pace to finish with one of the worst records in baseball. Not this year though because those D-Rays aren't stinking up the field instead they're playing with heart while quietly gaining momentum as the rest of MLB overlooks them. After last night Carlos Pena has 10 homeruns while outfielder Carl Crawford continues to connect at the plate. If Tampa Bay actually gets 20 games over .500 people will faint or have a arrhythmic stroke from the utter shock. Forget about the heckling and being the laughingstock of the AL because the D-Rays are on a roll. AL East you better recognize b*tches!

Mike Piazza, love or hate him but he's bound for the Hall

To announce I've ever been a Mets or Dodgers fan would be a lie. Both franchises have rich history and can boost championship glory. They couldn't stake their achievement without great players. The argument over whether retired slugger Mike Piazza will head into the Hall of Fame as a Met or a Dodger on his plaque to me is irrelevant. He will be revered as one of the best catchers of all-time and have a spot reserved in Cooperstown. His career numbers prove his HOF material: 427 Homeruns, 2127 Hits, 1335 RBIs, and .308 batting average.

Some fans think Piazza complained too much as a member of the Mets. His inefficiency with throwing runners out then moving to first base due to the problems with his knees was reason enough to get mad at the All-Star slugger and consider him 'washed up'. From a defensive standpoint Piazza was never the same after leaving the Dodgers. That didn't mean he became a terrible first baseman. He still hit for power and had clutch hits with his run with the Mets during the playoffs. His stints with the Marlins, Padres, and Athletics didn't along him to utilize his full strengths and attributes. As a DH he didn't show quite the production as the bat speed slowed down yet I'm sure the younger guys around him learned how to play the game with class.

As a Mike Piazza supporter the 16-year career didn't seem long enough. At 39 I'm sure he's most concerned about his family and his health after giving baseball some of his best seasons. To force him into a position he's uncomfortable with like trying to play third base wouldn't never worked. I just can't imagine 'Pepperoni' Piazza (old reference) diving for a lead drive or ground ball down the third base line. All he'd come up with most likely was a face full of dirt and a sore groin. He was a true catcher and knew his limitations on the field, which I respect. So why fight over what team he belongs to when he gets his call to the Hall. Remembering him as a Baseball Great should be enough.

David Ortiz slugs two homers in Red Sox 11-7 win

The big man is back in a groove for the Boston Red Sox. Displaying his power stroke in the Red Sox's 11-7 rout of the Brewers Sunday David Ortiz delivered with the clutch hits. He walloped 2 homeruns and drove in 4 runs. In an ever growing competitive AL East the heavy hitter puts Boston in first behind the hot Devil Rays. Given ample run support yesterday Josh Beckett turned in his 5th win despite giving up 4 homeruns. A 27-19 record to their credit the Red Sox aim to draw a comfortable lead over the rivaled Yankees.

With Manny Ramirez hitting .305 with 8 homeruns and 27 RBIs as part of the 1-2 punch in the middle of the order Big Pappi should continue to see good pitches in the zone. Whether it's over the green monster or the short fence in right field at Fenway the veteran slugger will hammer the ball. With May not over yet things are only beginning to heat up for the Bo Sox. Due up for them this week are the Royals and Athletics. Watch the ball soar when Ortiz gets locked in and rips AL pitching. Take control the AL East Red Sox!

President Bush never needs to be asked baseball questions again

With the economy still stuck in a recession the only true delight for many Americans during the spring and summer is the great National Past time. One of the quickest ways to ruin this joy is by interviewing George W. Bush about hypothetically starting a baseball team with the best position hitter and pitcher in the game today. First of all, the former Texas governor did own a team, the Rangers in which he f**ked up things so bad draining the team's payroll by making poor financial decisions. What makes anyone think this dimwit can manage a baseball club much less lead a horse to water? American men have seen what has happened to our country over the past 8 years and realize baseball may be their last treasured memory.

Okay, suppose somebody was crazy enough to allow Bush to run a baseball team again. His top choice for infielder/hitter is the Phillies' Chase Utley. The second baseman hits for power and shows solid defensive ability, but of all the great players in the game now Utley came to mind. Not thinking big-name again Bush responded by saying he'd go with the Blue Jays' Roy Halladay as the best pitcher. The most annoying part about the stupid interview was he was told he had the Yankees payroll at his dispense. Forget about any star power like David Ortiz, A-Rod, Ryan Howard, or Ken Griffey Jr. this dumbass wouldn't have the foggiest idea how many players to put in the starting lineup or rotation.

Even having any pitcher available and he wants....geez a terrorist ought to pummel him to death with a Louisville slugger while watching the game in the luxury box. The least that could happen for such idiotic answers would be for Bush to get drilled with a lead drive foul ball and catch it on camera. There is no better way to signify his lack of intelligence even when it comes to baseball. I think his head is spinning enough when it comes to handling national issues reiterated by the media. Imagine him in a press conference after a game, trying to explain why his team has lost 20 games in a row and he struggles to pronounce two Mexican ball players' names which are almost identical. He'd be on the verge of sh*tting himself! Let's make it easy for all of us and put on lid on asking Bush any more baseball questions.

Hornets' David West racks up career best against Spurs

Going back to New Orleans with the series tied 2-2 the Hornets didn't want to make any excuses. They knew their performance in Game 4 was lackluster and inexcusable. Taking the loss the hardest was All-Star forward David West. He felt everybody on the team didn't give it their best effort. Last night it was West who set the example and stole the spotlight, showcasing a career best 38 points, 14 rebounds, and 5 blocks. How incredible is that for a guy who had a bad back? Just imagine what he can do when 100%. The Spurs held control in the first half clamping on to a small lead until the 3rd quarter.

Chris Paul dazzled the home crowd once again feeding teammates and hitting big baskets in the clutch. His 22 points and 14 assists sent the San Antonio defense into a frenzy, unable to find a strategy to stop him. He helped the Hornets build a double-digit lead into the 4th quarter in route to the stunning 101-79 victory. Much credit to the Hornets' defense has to go to Tyson Chandler who guarded Tim Duncan, forcing him to 5-of-18 shooting despite hauling in 23 rebounds. No one else in the Spurs starting lineup had more than 20 points.

Almost setting the new franchise record, David West was 2 points away from breaking Glen Rice's mark of 39. All those who underestimated this young team have only energized their play in the playoffs. A Lakers, Hornets Western Finals duel may be in the works. With the Hornets up 3-2 heading back on the road with the one-two punch of Paul and West I believe franchise history is on the verge of being made. Go Hornets! Woooooooooo!

Cavs, Celtics series heating up

With the Boston Celtics up 2-1 on the Cavaliers this Eastern conference second round series is about to explode. Cleveland fans are gearing up for Showtime at Quicken Loans arena. Nobody can count out the Cavs and Lebron James until the last whistle. Although the superstar didn't have a record breaking performance in Game 3 his teammates spread out the scoring to carry them to a win. Don't expect Lebron to have another similar off-night because when he gets hot no one can stop him. Getting Big Z and Delonte West involved early sure takes less focus off him. Plus when veteran, Wally Szczerbiak can spark the offense with a 16-point effort and Daniel Gibson is knocking down threes the opposition is in trouble.

To the Cavs favor in the series the Celtics are 0-4 in the playoffs on the road this year, struggling to pull out the stops at crunch time. The Eastern conference league leaders know that Lebron's 5-of-16 shooting was only a faze and his 30 ppg average proves it doesn't happen often. I've got to think Lebron will ignite the Cleveland crowd and put on a another all-around showcase. It could be Jordan-isk or just simply a Lebron James earth shattering performance. Doc Rivers better have one heck of a game plan to shut down his cerebral attack tonight. Even the up the series, Go Cavs!