Both New York teams out of playoffs...now the Bronx is really pissed!

What a way for the both New York baseball teams to pull off a double-downer and truly disappoint their fans. How can it get even worse especially for the Mets? Being knocked out of playoff contention on the last day of the season two straight years has to be the pits. Usually I'd reserve a pot shot directed to primarily the Yankees, but each team took a flying nose dive for a collapse. Come to think, after losing some of their best pitchers the Mets were destined to falter and I actually picked them to win the wild card! I'm not sure what I was thinking at the time. This 2008 team sure didn't get a 'miracle' when they needed it and will have to watch the postseason back in the Bronx where the fans will be livid (Most likely calling them every name in the book and sending them regular hate mail). They were so close and only got to lick the outskirts of postseason emergence.

I guess after Joe Torre left the Yankees things went downhill fast because he was a central piece to their success over several years. Then they bring in former catcher Joe Giradi and think he will have the same effect because he has the same first name. Not clear thinking at all by an aging billionaire owner. A-Rod and Jeter couldn't get it done and needed help which just didn't arrive. I have to imagine going out to restaurants or clubs won't be the norm for these superstar players as irate Yankees fans will give them a piece of their mind. As soon as they're spotted on the street they better watch out because it will be like,

"HEY, you guyz ain't no real freaking Yankees, how dare you shame the good name of the Babe in the last year at Yankee Stadium. Having Yogi at the last game was special...it was an emotional night and you prima donnas f--ked it all up! Maybe elsewhere, they let it slide, but you in Brooklyn b*tch and we don't pull up with that crap! We only want winners not pretenders. Don't bother showing ya face around here until you lousy bums can hit the playoffs again."

Ken Griffey Jr. cranks no. 610, leaves Sosa in the dust

What an amazing career Ken Griffey Jr. has put together and it's only getting better. Last night against the Twins Junior broke out the whooping stick and hit a homerun in consecutive games. The long ball hit Thursday night in a 3-2 loss was historic as Griffey moves up the all-time leaders list at 610 and counting. He passes by Sammy Sosa. The veteran, one of a kind slugger has moved up to inhabit their no. 4 spot on the homerun list. If the White Sox know what's best they have Griffey Jr. donning a Sox jersey on the field and in the lineup as often as possible. All the skeptics who think the former All-Star can't cut it anymore still don't know what he's capable of because trust me he might not a 'Kid' anymore, but he still has the pop.

Beyond explicable explanation the White Sox lost two in a row to the Twins in a fierce AL Central playoff race after Griffey Jr. slugged 2 homeruns with RBIs. How can a team falter with a dynamic impact from a superstar, eventual Hall of Fame Great? I'm just glad Junior got the heck out of Cincy, where the team was going no where. He deserves the opportunity to be in the playoffs, in the lime light again to let his fans know he can still put on a show. The only thing he needs to avoid is making running, diving catches or leaping into the outfield wall. There is no need to cause injuries, he's had more than his share in his career. A playoff run will only add to his legacy, making his late career more satisfying and memorable. Come October if Griffey Jr. isn't presence it will be a crying shame.

Clemens gets the shaft in Yankees' farewell montage

Well, the last game at Yankee Stadium is in the record books. As expected no one wanted to leave the stadium while players stayed around to show appreciation to the many fans. The real story wasn't centered around the Yanks winning their final game at the place known as the 'house Ruth built' rather how the list of former Yankees who made the franchise what it is today. One notable name not included in a video tribute was none other than Roger Clemens. Apparently, after Clemens' controversy with steroids and absence from the game made him a less important figure in the team's rich history. Okay, I'm no Yankees fan (quite frankly can't stand them), but come on, everyone knows the 'Rocket' deserved to be apart of the farewell event.

I mean the front office must have beef still with Clemens. For crying out loud even Chuck Knoblauch was mentioned and honored as a Yankee. There is an issue lingering between the veteran pitcher and the franchise because if Petitte and Giambi, both guilty of using performance enhancing drugs can be present and bask in the accolades and historic glory Clemens has a right to recognized as well. It's no big surprise though that Steinbreiner wants to distract fans, having them forget about gloomy times and make out like he can do no wrong. Sorry, old timey it doesn't work that way. Fan favorites do make bad decisions, but they always will be remembered and held in admiration.

All the money in baseball want make a team the best, but the players and coaches are the backbone to an organization. Not only did Clemens get snubbed, but also there was no appreciation shown to Joe Torre. Why does the franchise overlook such instrumental key leaders who have played major roles in their success? Is it that because they don't care? Whatever the reason for the total diss the Yankees' front office better have one hell of an explanation and make it public to everyone. Too many feelings are hurt with such slaps in the face along with complete lack of consideration. Sure the Yankees were winners after last night in the finale, but is the owner a winner with the fans for tossing other Yankee Greats to side. As the old adage goes, "Out of sight out of mind."

Longoria's 3 jack cities aren't enough to put Twins away

If there was a time in baseball history where a team with the one of the lowest payrolls flourished with a magical season they would be similar to the 2008 Tampa Bay Rays. No one thought the young, emblazoned team who has never made the playoffs since their franchise debut would exceed lofty expectations. All while making the New York Yankees sulk and feel like crap after another season gone straight to the toilet. Yeah, that's right the mighty Empire can forget about the playoffs (so suck on that spoiled Yankee fans)! Unlike their success based mainly on richness the Rays have a true source which powers their team: young leadership. Tampa Bay put up one heck of an effort Thursday night against the Twins. Evan Longoria did his best to joust for a comeback smacking 3 homeruns.

No one can deny the Rays their destiny this year. I really wouldn't be surprised to see them in the World Series. They have a good group of young pitchers with Kazmir and Garza in the rotation plus a steady mix of talent in the lineup. All season long one man in particular has been overlooked and that's Carlos Pena. He connected on his 30th homerun last night. That makes back-to-back seasons of 30 or more homeruns with a chance for 100 RBIs again. Yes he's a veteran with a flair for the dramatic. Another central piece to their offense is Eric Hinske who continues to have quiet hitting contributions. The same goes for the infielder Bartlett who seemly has come out of no where.

Don't count the Rays out in the playoffs, this club is legitimate. Sure they are neck and neck with Boston, only a 1.5 ahead in first place. Having offense with speed certainly helps a team as well. This is where B.J. Upton comes into play. The rising star outfielder has 42 stolen bases! To go along with that, add 82 runs scored and bang there is the offensive production. With Tampa Bay on the verge of clinching a playoff spot the fans better start supporting them by filling the seats. I know the team is in Florida and the hurricanes pose threats (still the team plays indoor), but damn this team is hot!! In other words the Rays are the team to watch come October so fans better recognize.

O.J. plantiff has blunder in court yet still doesn't get O.J. off the hook

Well, to say the O.J. case is going smoothly would be a real understatement. After a series of trails in court, examining all sides of information and parties involved it looks as if O.J. Simpson will be finally nailed and prosecuted. One thing that did help him is the man who is an alleged victim claimed he didn't try to profit from the stolen memorabilia then admitted later he advertised the items on Ebay under 'Same O.J. memorabilia stolen from Las Vegas.' What a totally contradictory, stupid-ass move! This so-called memorabilia dealer was also recorded stating how he was going to get revenge on O.J. and have Inside Edition run a story on the whole ordeal.

At this point, the focus is away from O.J. somewhat (still doesn't make him close to innocent nor an angel). Another thing I don't understand is why the shady dealer and O.J. were former friends and obviously have serious trust issues. I mean it's one thing to have personal possessions stolen from you, but certainly another to turn your back and get stabbed (probably O.J. contemplated doing this many times). Another wishy-washy statement made by the plantiff is how he believed his life was in danger after the robbery, but also commented how he wasn't afraid. None of it makes sense. The jury needs to wrap up the damn trial and let the judge issue prosecutions on both parties. Both are guilty of various random crimes and need to face justice. There is no need to have the trial drag on like the last one. No one should have to face that burden again. In the mean time it would be a good idea if O.J. stayed in check with his emotions and didn't try to kill anyone.

Saves record by Bobby Thigpen shattered by Angels closer

The Angels are having a magnificent season. A central piece to their success is Francisco Rodriguez. He's been apart of many close games. His 58 saves for the season has made the Angels are a contender and moved him pass former White Sox reliever Bobby Thigpen for the top spot for most saves in season etched in the record books. He broke an 18-year mark and received a congratulatory note from Thigpen. That's quite a feat for any major league pitcher. The first pitcher to notch over 50 saves was Dave Righetti for the Yankees prior to the 90's era. The only other player close to the new record was Trevor Hoffman, who is the career saves leader.

The Angels have the AL West wrapped up, already clinching the division. They prepare for the playoffs where they'll face either the White Sox, Red Sox, and Rays. Francisco Rodriguez has come a long ways in his career from a virtual unknown to a prized saves specialist. When he's in the zone no one can hit him. I have a feeling it will be several years before any other pitcher reaches or surpasses his new mark. Most relievers don't have the durability and consistency to withstand season after season. K-Rod will most likely be a prime factor in the Angels' run for postseason satisfaction.

Phillies Phanatic a source of inspiration for playoff run

Many fans and baseball followers tend to overlook the motivational spark generated by team mascots. When it comes to picking up team spirits and ignite rallies that falls into the hands of these adored (sometimes ignored or even hated) ballpark icons. The Philadelphia Phillies are pushing for a late season spurt to clinch a playoff spot. When it comes to getting a crowd active and spreading positive energy they can look no further than the Phillie Phanatic. The mascot's cheering provides more than just moral support. When Ryan Howard steps to the plate with the game on the line as Chase Utely inches over for a good lead on first or second base with pressure rising you can bet your ass the Phanatic's participation will have an effect on the situation.

This isn't to say the the greenish-furry costumed character won't slip up at times, play around with kids instead being up on the home dugout or go for a beer during the wrong time during a game. A team like the Phillies must get all the momentum and adrenaline from their crowd while feeding off it to win big games. In response to those who feel contenders don't thrive off electric cheering sections you obviously don't give a rat's ass about mascots! Sure from time to time these notable, silly hallmark baseball entities miss the mark and get sidetracked basking in popularity amongst the bleacher bums.

That doesn't mean their spirited presence and clapping never makes a difference. Their dance routines and antics in the stadium spurs the passion from fans who in turn express themselves and root aloud (sometimes out of control and too loud). I say give credit where it's due. If the Phillies go on an amazing win streak to finish out the regular season, watch the highlights and believe it...the mascots are key. Let's face it even when teams stink and lose mascots are the only ones who can bring a smile to a spectator's face.

Pennant race tightening in NL West

There isn't much to boast about in the NL West as far as records are concerned. Right now it's a neck-and-neck between the D-backs and Dodgers who jockey for first place. Manny and Greg Maddux look to give L.A. the edge with 19 games left on the schedule. Brandon Webb had been red hot for the D-backs, but has not found the magic in previous starts to collect his 20th win. Between the two NL teams I think the Dodgers have the better offensive lineup with young guys and veterans with potent bats. The test will be who strives in the final 2 weeks of the season. It's either first place or bust because other contenders will stake claims for the wildcard.

As of today the Dodgers are atop the division at 73-71 with a 1.5 game lead. Since picking up Adam Dunn in a trade Arizona still can't be underestimated. Chris Young is another critical player in their run for the postseason. Plus, despite his age veteran Randy Johnson is still a force on the mound at times and gives teams trouble. I'm pushing for the Dodgers to win the division title because of their rich history and the fact they haven't been to a World Series for a long time. Much pressure is on Manager Joe Torre to help his team succeed in his first year. With Ramirez hitting and solid contributions from Casey Blake the club is well on their way.

Being a 20-game winner on a losing team

For players on struggling teams this year it's got to be a bummer. This hits bottom the belt extra hard for veteran guys hitting only .205, no bright spots during a season without a miracle in sight. For the Cleveland Indians there isn't much to be praised for except for one phenomenal pitcher. Cliff Lee worked diligently all year to obtain his 21-2 record through all the losing spells, trade involving C.C. Sabathia, and fans heckling the Indians every time they stepped onto the field. The only thing magical about the Indians' season is their starting ace. He's quietly be having a career year with his team far out of the playoff picture. It got to stink having the best pitching record in baseball yet being on a crummy team.

I think if the Cleveland organization doesn't start taking strides towards improving their franchise Mr. Lee will find himself a new home elsewhere with different scenery. I mean the Indians aren't pulling it together with a 69-72 record which isn't bad, but won't cut it for playoff material. Trailing 10.5 games behind the powerhouse White Sox such a deficit is too much for them to overcome. If the club structure their team around Cliff Lee, bringing in new talent then maybe they'll have a shot to contend in the coming years. Other than the Indians' star pitcher and Brandon Webb who else is likely to win 20 or more games? This is an extraordinary accomplishment, but sure to be undervalued by fans and analysts driven by pennant races and playoff fantasies. Don't worry Cliff you'll still get the Cy Young while those playoff insurgents are out there on the field beating each other's brains out.

Snap, crunch...ow weeee not injuries

Each baseball season has it's share of player injuries. The most unusual incidents sometimes aren't linked to the media or public right away because it's so embarrassing. For instance, earlier this year the A's Daric Barton went on the DL with an injury to his neck after hitting his head on the bottom of a pool. Before the season started the Cubs' Felix Pie wound up with a painful experience while twisting a private tender part sliding on the base paths. The most clumsy, silly incident happened to Cardinals' pitcher Jason Isringhausen who stabbed himself attempting to open a well taped package then broke his hand after punching a trash can. Wow! I'm sure his injuries could have easily been avoided. Too many people forget the odd injuries to ball players in the past.

I remember when Sammy Sosa went on the shelf a couple years ago with the Cubs with back spasms because he sneezed so hard back in the clubhouse. Who does that really? The most shocking incidents on the other hand which I was unaware of happened to two notable star pitchers. In the 90's Tom Glavine had a rough time on a plane once, not with the flight, but with the bad food he eat. It caused him to vomit repeatedly resulting in breaking a rib and missing games as a Brave. The other wild occurrence I've never heard anyone coping with concerned Nolan Ryan when he was with the Rangers. Apparently, he was out in the wilderness or desert and got his hand bitten by a coyote. Luckily the flame-throwing Texan didn't get rabies as well.

The most hilarious injury I think is forgotten former All-Star Kevin Mitchell going on the shelf one year after chipping a tooth from chopping down on a chocolate donut. I'm sure the slugger had a few that day because he used to be huge! I bet he still didn't take any advice later about eating an apple an day (fatties never do). No athlete in baseball or any other sport look forward to injuries yet some are inevitable such as when a player slides head first into home and collides when a catcher's cleats or fists. The same goes for when an outfielder loses track of a wall and bounces off it trying to make a daring, highlight play. The unknown, low-tier guys (usually utility players) ought to know better than take chances on the field because one freak incident could mean their career. I suppose that's why fans don't see the likes of Juan Gonzalez or 'Oil Can' Boyds anymore.

Called up to the Show: Prospects yearn for opportunity to prove value

It's that time a year again where MLB teams expand their roster grinding towards the end of the season. Most young minor leaguers jump at the chance to play in the Bigs and revel in the moments on the diamond. Sure some can't hit the knock the dust off an old barn yet they get their chance to prove themselves. Whether it's coming out of the bullpen to face a few batters or entering the game in a pinch-hitting spot prospects get their frill. I don't think it's a good idea though for a prospect to be placed into a situation where the game is on the line and they're set up to fail mercilessly by striking out to end it or giving up a gofer ball to send a home crowd home in tears. That's just not good baseball.

There are moments when a team will falter and experience a downward spiral such as with the fictitious Cleveland Indians team in the movie Major League 1 & 2. The best moves by managers is to use newcomers in roles where can get the most out of appearances to serve as learning experiences. In other words it will be a gut-wrenching spot which will put too much pressure on the player and result in a crowd growing incensed, booing with rabid intensity and ready to clobber the player in the parking lot after watching their team lose. Many young prodigies will get the feeling of pride when they succeed while the rest will ride the bench or sent back to the minors for further development. Either way they'll learn from mistakes like not hitting into a double twice in a game and striking out on low pitches. At that point there is only room for improvement.

No challenge too strong for Rays, too hot to be stopped

2008 has to a miracle year because the Tampa Bay Rays are almost invincible...or perhaps have a kinetic power over teams with the ability to read their pitching extremely well and make due just fine with the bare essentials. I say that because since Evan Longoria and veteran Carl Crawford have gone on the shelf the club doesn't seem to lose often. Their eclectic mix of up-and-comers and veteran leaders have turned out to be magic. Who would have thought a group of overlooked ball players and no-namers would work like a charm. Sitting atop the AL East the Rays sure aren't going to fade, not this year.

A centerpiece to this club is two underestimated, lesser-known players who keep a low key: Carlos Pena and Eric Hinske. Both are having outstanding seasons and leading the team in homeruns and RBIs. With yesterday's 10-4 victory over the Orioles everything in going according to plan. The Rays climb to 83-51 and secure a 4.5 game lead over Boston in the AL East. This club is packed with talent yet the Florida fans don't fully support them by coming out in droves to the ballpark. I mean they have an incredible home record (51-19), the best in the MLB! Too many tropical storms have draw people away, but still the Rays are having an incredible season.

Sooner or later everyone will giving the club the credit and accolades they deserve. It's all in due time. I imagine when Longoria returns with B.J. Upton keeping up his hitting stride the Rays will be the team to beat and will go on a surge towards the end of the regular season. Plus nobody should forget about Akinori Iwamura who is spark plug at the lead-off spot. He's batting .282 with 150 hits and 76 runs scored. I bet the Yankees wished their prospects developed as fast as Tampa Bay's. Building upon a successful year, the sky is the limit for the Rays!

Instant Replay's Impact On Postseason Play

Since MLB reinstated Instant Replay on Thursday it's suppose to enhance the accuracy of calls during games. Too many questionable, highly contested judgments have caused teams to lose close games or alter a game situation in favor of another team. The new automated feature in ballparks still won't prevent managers or players from arguing balls and strikes while storming the field causing a ruckus. The same goes with close plays on the base paths. I do think Instant Replay will enhance the quality of the game, but also pose delays. Fans can turn rabid when action on the field is halted for long periods. If they really get furious a baseball atmosphere becomes out of control when trash litters the field. In most cases, a play that's called straight down the center and is fair receives high regard and is appreciated by all.

Heading into the postseason I think Instant Replay may play a big part in crucial game moments. If a team is trailing by a run in the 8th or 9th inning and a ball is hit down the right or left field line tight to the foul pole it's going to be debatable. This is where a late inning influential call can be reviewed and given proper consideration to be corrected or confirmed. I also feel bad calls at home plate can occur less and give teams the chance to score game-tying or winning runs. Sometimes there is an issue with fan interference as well or whether a ball cleared the line on the wall for a homerun as it bounces back into play. These types of scenarios have dramatic effects on game outcomes and therefore deserve to be given a second, more accurate evaluation.

The worst dilemma to go wrong with this state of the art ballpark technology is a live feed is lost and a monitor goes to black. Hopefully the tech gurus developing this unique visual device have worked out all the bugs beforehand. Otherwise it would truly suck if it was the bottom of the 9th with 2 outs and a player drilled a potential grand slam to win a game which needed to be reviewed. All of a sudden it get misty in the ballpark and creates too much static on a screen to see much of anything. I don't foreseen anything of that nature occurring, but it's a possibility. Instant Replay is a good step to improving the accuracy and consistency of bang-bang plays. It will definitely come in handy for the playoffs.

Heavy-weight hitters: Ranking John Kruk more than just an overaveraged eater

I know several guys in baseball only are known for primarily exceling at one thing. After their career is over they are nearly forgotten. There are several notorious names which comes to mind when I think about the Phillies: Mike Schmidt, Steve Carlton, Darren Dalton, Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, and Richie Ashburn. Then also there are unique players like John Kruk which are overlooked. Now an ESPN analyst, Kruk shares his knowledge and advice about the game. He's a type of ball player who was just as content hitting an RBI double to put his team ahead as devouring a chili dog smothered with relish. There is no question the left-handed Phillie liked to eat. If anything it helped him put more weight behind the ball during his playing days yet fatigued the hell out of him running the basepaths.

He doesn't have a ton of homeruns in his career like Schmidt, but was a keen hitter with over a .300 lifetime batting average. Plus his defense wasn't too shabby either. Of all the players in Phillies franchise history I wonder where does he rank. Top 20? Top 10? (Okay, I know that's kinda pushing it). Let's just say hypothetically Kruk hit 40 homeruns one year and drove in 100 RBIs with that high average. Surely, this would place him up there with the likes of heavy hitters such Cecil Fielder, Fred McGriff, and Kevin Mitchell (It's a shame that most fans don't care about those guys either). Honestly, in my own personal poll I'd rank John Kruk about 15th in franchise history.

I don't mind vouching for a fat player who hit with consistency. After all that's what leads to winning games. Given John Kruk will never be on the Hall of Fame ballot, he sure was a team player with good baseball instincts. For instance, if a ball was hit in foul territory near the first base dugout, swerving towards the seats Kruk knew he wasn't able to get there in time and didn't interfere in a teammate's path, allowing him plenty of room to try and make the catch. Now that's being aware of your surroundings and practicing sportsmanship. Every once and while the veteran hitter would wallop a homerun and bring down the house at Veterans Field. After the game I imagine he savored his share of cold beers and everything else provided to him by request from the concession stands. Does John Kruk make the cut for being one of the best all-time Phillies? Not by a long shot...yet he's a classic hitter who played with spirit and heart and won't be forgotten in franchise history.

Team USA fulfills promise, wins gold!

I can hear those Olympic basketball critics now, "Well, it's about time the NBA's best won a gold medal. I thought for sure they'd choke." After listening to all the criticism and negative light placed on them by the media in the past Team USA gutted it out and accomplished the ultimate goal. They held off Spain in the championship game for a 118-107 triumph. This new, fined-tuned Olympic USA squad knew they could pull it off.

Dwayne Wade led all scores with 27 points (9-for-12 FGA-FGM). Kobe Byrant followed that up with a 20-point, 6 assist performance. Lebron's prediction was right on target. He played a big part in the tournament run. Spain's speed and feistyness were no match for Team USA's scoring power, depth, and overall strength.

Counting the USA out of obtaining the gold was a mistake. They have set a new legacy as the "Redeem Team" etching their Olympic achievement into the record books. In order to get to the promised land they had to get past the likes of Argentina, Austraila, Germany, and Angola. The US had showed such dominance in the tournament since the 1992 Dream Team. With Michael Jordan and Larry Bird at the helm I can't personally compare the two teams. Everyone can be satisfied now who was pushing for this talented, young team to win it all and the rest of the naysayers can hit the bricks for all I care. This reign in Beijing is only the start to a new dynasty for USA basketball glory. Congrats to the USA team for bringing home the gold!

Greg Maddux looks to rekindle magic with Dodgers

The first time Greg Maddux stepped on the mound as a Dodger I thought, so this is the place where the old veteran will end his career and try to relive his last moments of glory. Also, it appeared as Maddux had let himself go as far as being in shape. It turns he was in good condition just was unable to breathe life into a deflated team. In 2005 with L.A. the crafty gamer went 6-3 with a 3.30 ERA. Not bad at all for a pitcher who many felt was at the end of his rope (especially me). Now after gutting out a few miserable seasons with the lowly Padres he has returned to Hollywood, not in search of regained fame, but for a sweet piece of the pie. The move by the Dodgers was aimed obviously to give them an extra arm in the rotation and a shove towards earning a playoff spot.

What the postseason-starved young Dodgers get is a future Hall of Famer with a career 353 wins and 35 shutouts. If they can succeed with Manny and 'ole Mad Dog there is no saving them. With how the D-backs keep playing and Brandon Webb (19-3) on fire the Dodgers better turn up the voltage to high and play like there is no tomorrow. Maddux will be an asset no doubt, he's a real gamer approaching near 5,000 innings pitched and 737 games started.

That's pretty consistent numbers from a reliable 42-year-old veteran with plenty of experience under his belt. The former All-Star pitcher can add value to the team's run in the final month. Come October if the Dodgers hit with consistency behind Maddux and the club's other starters playoff emergence is a great possibility. If they can get the D-backs to cough up a few games in the desert or keel over a few times then L.A. is in business.

Phillies' Rollins knows better than to rattle fans

There is a reason why Philadelphia is a called the city of "Brotherly Love." That term has to be used loosely when referring to the avid sports fans there. In other words, it's like asking for directions if a person is visiting the city and is lost. Sure on a good day a local may be kind enough and help you out, but on another day they won't hesitate to mug you. That's sort of the situation Jimmy Rollins finds himself in with the Phillies' fans. Earlier this week he made the wrong statement to the media, admitting the home fans are too demanding and get impatient when a player isn't playing good or have scuffles, letting that player hear about it over and over. His worst mistake, however probably was referring to these team supporters as frontrunners.

One quick way to incense a home crowd is by admitting they are haters, unhappy when a player isn't performing at the top level. Well, duh...who wants to sit around and watch a team lose game after game and ruin their chance at the postseason. His criticism towards the Philly fans started on a West Coast trip in which the team went 2-5. Despite this recent gaffe the Phillies are 67-57 and stand only 1.5 games behind the Mets. What is Jimmy Rollins' problem anyway? He ought to know the fans have a right to boo him and feel obliged to since he's hitting a mere .266 with 8 homeruns. That's far from a productive 2007 season which consisted of 30 homeruns, 20 triples, 30 doubles, and 30 steals (first player in history to reach the platoe).

To make matters worse Rollins had chances to apologize for his choice of words yet refused. This only makes the hometown faithful more hotter under the collar. I think Rollins either better start rediscovering his swing or get use to the bombastic array of boos for a while. When will players learn to keep their mouth shut during interviews when it comes to topics like this off the field? All he needs to be concerned about is his performance in games and how to help his club get into first in the NL East. That or stay alive with a series of late season runs to capture the wild card.

I think it will be easier for Philly to go after the division title because several hot teams will be in the fold for that final playoff birth. They can be streaky at times and their pitching may hold up better than the Mets'. Plus the middle of their order is a threat on any given night (Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, Pat Burrell). If Rollins knows what's best he'll lay off the fans and work his tail off to start contributing. Otherwise the Philly fanatics may form a mob with clear intentions and wait for the shortstop to leave the ballpark late one night wielding sledgehammers and chains.

Team USA blows out Germany 101-57, silences critics

For a while all I heard was how the U.S. Olympics team was going to be screw up and embarrass themselves by losing to a less talented foreign opponent. Well, it has yet to happen. As a matter of fact, Team USA is showing all they need to do is outscore the opposition by a wide margin then feel obligated to finesse and show-boat a little for the fans back home. Now I know Lebron James has came up with the nickname, "Redeem Team" for this year's squad yet this is too much unnecessary pressure to put on the other younger players. Sure the goal is to win the gold while kicking the living tar out of every other team on the schedule in the tournament. All they can do is take this quest one game at a time.

For Team USA, there is no point in getting ahead of themselves and allowing a quicker, smarter opponent to sweep the rug right from under them. As far as the 'we're better than everyone else' attitude goes the players with this mindset will have to put their egos aside for the good of the team. Otherwise too much complaining and arguing on the court evolves and before the US realizes it they're trailing in the championship game with some quirky, underestimated European giving them hell on the offensive end. As long as Team USA stays focus and make crucial stops on defense they'll be A-okay. Up next on the schedule for them is Australia, a country known for their adoration for soccer.

I don't see any other nation giving the U.S. a real scare yet. Lebron James, Dwayne Wade, and Kobe Bryant will try to pave the way to capture Olympics gold for first time since the Dream Team in the mid-90's. I think efficient contributing scoring efforts from their teammates ought to give them enough leverage. Relying on outside shooting is out of the question when they possess plenty of inside capability with post players like Dwight Howard to overwhelm if not dismantle opponents. Of course, a 40-plus points performance by Lebron or Kobe could do no wrong. The proclaimed 'Redeem Team' plans on going far in the tournament and coming out on top.

White Sox put 'em on the BOARD, ehhh YES!

I don't know what kind of energy drinks the Chicago White Sox' hitters are drinking, but I'd like to get a taste of it. The power infusion in their lineup yesterday lead to a homerun exhibition. Bashing four straight homeruns is difficult by any measure yet the White Sox look to do it with a flick of the wrist and luck on their side. How seldom does a team accomplish such a feat? I mean a triple-play can be one of the most astonishing plays of a game (especially if it happens to the opposing team with the bases loaded). The Royals didn't know what the hell hit them yesterday in a 9-2 slugfest. Chicago brought out the whooping stick and the Royals have no choice other than to take it like men.

The one rarity in the game to me was that Carlos Quentin wasn't apart of the homer parade. In fact he was so much a non-factor he took a cortisone shot in the ass back in the clubhouse and tried to play through the pain, kinda limping around in the outfield. Okay I'm only kidding....that didn't actually happened, but it would have made a helluva tie-in to the story. Instead the recent hot-hitting Quentin just enjoyed the show his teammates put on and settled for a 1-for-3 performance. Jim Thome (25), Paul Konerko (12), Alexi Ramirez, and Juan Uribe (4) all went yard in the 6th inning. The White Sox tied a Major League record for consecutive homeruns in an inning. The feat had occurred only 6 times in the past.

As an underestimated contender, the White Sox are impressive with a 68-52. They lead the Twins in the AL Central by a game. With Griffey injected into the lineup, sometimes coming off the bench the Chi Sox are ready to make a run. If their pitching continues to hold up they have plenty offense to ignite rallies. Jim Thome and Jermaine Dye are having overlooked seasons and will be the key players in the lineup towards the end of the season. The Chi Sox battle the A's starting this weekend for a 3-game series at home before seeing the Mariners. All they have to do now is get the Twins off their back. Good luck with that gang.

Injuries a real setback for Rays

Out of all the Tampa Bay Rays the best player missing from their lineup on any given night is Evan Longoria, who remains sidelined with an injury. Not only having to bear his absence, but the club also will be without Carl Crawford for the rest of the season. The center fielder will undergo surgery to his injured right hand. His production is the lineup will missed too. His numbers so far: 8 homeruns, 57 RBIs, and 25 stolen bases. Tampa Bay now must look elsewhere for their main source in offense. Not to be discarded, Eric Hinske and Carlos Pena are having a good year. They've combined for 114 RBIs. With the Red Sox reeling in Paul Byrd in a trade the Rays will have to counter somehow. Simply keeping the lineup they have won't cut it.

The standings still favor the Rays, who hold a 71-47 record with a 3-game lead over the Red Sox. It's going to be tough for the Rays to match their scoring or stay ahead in the AL East. Yet as unexpected they have took the division by storm. Aiming for a playoff will take at least another good bat in the lineup. Instead of letting the D-backs snatch up Adam Dunn they should've got him. What a difference his power could have made for them as far as clutch hitting and average runs per game goes.

Finding a way to win to hold on to first place is the biggest challenge for the Rays now. Their loss of production will put more pressure on the rotation. Scott Kazmir (8-6) and Andy Sonnanstine (11-6) are their top pitchers who will try to keep the team afloat until Longoria returns from the 15-day DL. I'd like to see the Rays continue to suprise critics and survive the test with injuries and outplaying their opponents. They've gotten this far already, it would be a shame for them to fall off pace. With all of the young players and exuberance I still believe they're better than the Yankees. Don't count on Tampa Bay withering away yet because they've got too much spirit and fight left.