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History:

Damn, long time no post. I have an excuse though ... Recently I got a new job and moved to St. Petersburg, Fla., with my girlfriend Jen. I am working at the Bradenton Herald, basically doing what I was doing at my old job as a sports copy editor. It's not too bad so far, and the weather is just a tad nicer down here also, or so I heard. We've been pretty busy, considering we didn't bring a whole lot down with us and had to basically furnish the entire place ... it's still not done, but it's getting there. Oh and we got two cats, Caeser and Chloe, to keep us company.

Anyway, I miss everyone back home but I hope to be back up to the Garden State for a visit soon, probably around the holidays. We plan on having plenty of visitors though down here, so if you plan to be in the Tampa Bay area, or would like to, just give me a ring, you know the number. Until then, you can keep tabs on me via the Internet ... I'm not sure if I'll be posting on here a whole lot in the immediate future, but I've been doing the whole MySpace thing lately, seems like a lot of people are lurking around there. If you don't have it, you're missing out. You can access my page by going here: www.myspace.com/jaybart.

Talk to you later.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 6:45 PM [edit]

GIANTS UPDATE

Jeremy Shockey has finally made an appearance at the Giants' voluntary workouts after a few weeks of pleading by his QB, Eli Manning. Shockey had been in Miami, rigorously working out with former Hurricanes players as well as new teammate Plaxico Burress. The tight end said he didn't mean to cause controversy and was only trying to better himself, and added that he feels he's in the best shape of his career. Time will tell, but hopefully he and Manning can get on the same page this year and Shockey can return to the brilliance shown in his rookie season.

Could QB Doug Flutie suit up for Big Blue? It's a possibility, now that backup Jim Miller is set to undergo hip surgery that could have him out for several months. Flutie, the former Boston College star who was released by the Chargers earlier this offseason, would still like to play another year and is reportedly going to have a physical soon for the Giants. Sure, he's old, but you could do much worse in finding a second- or third-stringer.

Now that the draft is over, most teams are sifting through the remnants of college seniors in search of undrafted free-agent steals. The G-Men may have found one in Syracuse's Diamond Ferri. Ferri was a highly recruited RB coming out of high school but was forced to switch to defensive back for the Orange. His size (5-foot-10) probably kept most teams from drafting him as a safety, but he did show flashes of two-way ability in a stellar game against Boston College last year. Ferri returned an interception 44 yards for a TD and made six tackles, but was also pressed into backfield duty because of injuries and responded by rushing 28 times for 141 yards and two TDs in Syracuse's 43-17 upset win. For his efforts, Ferri became the only Big East player to win Offensive and Defensive Player of the Week honors. Ferri could prove to be a valuable and versatile player next year, so keep an eye on him.

Another undrafted free-agent pickup is Notre Dame RB Ryan Grant. A Nyack, N.J., native, Grant was the New Jersey Prep Player of the Year before joining the Fighting Irish. He did rush for 1,000 yards as a sophomore, but never really lived up to his potential, losing the starting job to current Cowboy Julius Jones as a junior and freshman Darius Walker because of injuries as a senior. Perhaps Grant will be able to live up to some of that potential in a Giant uniform.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 1:26 PM [edit]

GIANTS UPDATE

EAST RUTHERFORD - Despite not making their first pick until the second round (43rd overall) because of last year's trade for Eli Manning, I'd have to say it was a pretty successful NFL Draft for the Giants. I'll break down Big Blue's selections and also offer some other draft thoughts in a moment ... but first, I want to tell you about the Giants' Draft Day Party, which I attended Saturday at the Meadowlands with my brother and his friends.

We were able to get a few autographs, most notably former Giant RB O.J. Anderson, the MVP of Super Bowl XXV. We also got other luminaries such as defensive tackle Fred Robbins, offensive lineman Rich Seubert and new kicker Jay Feely. We missed out on legendary linebacker Harry Carson - who deserves to be in the Hall of Fame, by the way - and new offensive lineman Kareem McKenzie, a Penn State grad. But other than that it was pretty cool ... we got to take a walk through the Giants' locker room (it's not as impressive without huge, naked, sweaty dudes) and press box, and also got to go out onto the field. I also got my picture taken with former TE Howard Cross and radio analyst Dave Jennings. For some reason, they didn't believe me when I said I played linebacker in high school. Anyway, I will have plenty of digital photos to share with you in the near future.

Now, onto the Giants' picks ....

Second round, No. 43 overall: Corey Webster, CB, LSU
The Giants front office has really been hyping this young man up, saying they have him rated higher than first-rounders Antrel Rolle of Miami and Adam "Pac-Man" Jones of West Virginia. Webster (5-foot-11, 204 pounds) was considered a sure-fire first-rounder prior to his senior season at LSU, but a series of injuries (most notably a strained right knee, which caused a foot problem) set him back quite a bit. Still, they say he's fully recovered and his pre-draft workouts were phenomenal. He is said to have a nose for the ball and began his college career as a wide receiver, which means he should significantly reduce the Giants' continuing problem of dropped interceptions. Webster also showed character by returning for his senior season to complete his degree rather than going pro, as well as fighting through his various injuries. He should immediately give them depth at the corner position behind Will Peterson and Will Allen, who will be a free agent after this season.

Third round, No. 74 overall: Justin Tuck, TE, Notre Dame
Tuck is another highly regarded player whose stock dropped because of an injury-plagued senior season. Tuck tore his ACL at the end of his junior year in 2003 but was able to return to the Fighting Irish as a senior and start in all 11 games. He had a drop in production (13.5 sacks as a junior, six as a senior) but still set the school's sack record and was voted team MVP. Tuck can play both end positions and should become a part of the rotation with starters Michael Strahan and Osi Umenyiora.

Fourth round, No. 110 overall: Brandon Jacobs, RB, Southern Illinois
The Giants addressed another definite team need with this selection. Jacobs, who is said to weigh in at over 260 pounds, will step in as a replacement for the departed Ron Dayne and hopefully fair better in short-yardage situations. Both Jacobs and the Giants have stressed, however, that Jacobs is not a fullback, but a feature back. He originally played at Auburn but decided to transfer after being stuck behind Ronnie Brown and Cadillac Williams, who were both top-five selections this year. Jacobs was part of a three-running back rotation at Division I-AA Southern Illinois but still gained over 900 yards, scored 19 touchdowns and averaged 6.6 yards a carry during his senior season. Jacobs says he is willing to play any role for the Giants and has vowed to surprise some people who are expecting only a third-and-1 back. He will be very valuable to the team, as Mike Cloud is the only RB behind starter Tiki Barber with much experience.

Sixth round, No. 186 overall: Eric Moore, DE, Florida State
Moore is yet another player who was hampered by injuries as a college senior. He started 12 games in 2003 but only nine this past season because of two high ankle sprains. The Giants think he can become a good pass-rusher if he adds some weight to his 6-foot-4 frame. He provides more depth at the DE position.




GIANTS NOTES

The Newark Star-Ledger is reporting that the Giants signed Penn State linebacker Derek Wake to a free-agent contract. Wake is a physical specimen who had impressive pre-draft workouts but did not live up to his potential in his time with the Nittany Lions. He could be at the least a valuable special teams contributor. ... The G-Men will have new road uniforms next year that are exact replicas of their 1956 NFL Championship team ... the Chargers used the 12th overall pick, which they acquired from the Giants in the Manning deal, to select LB Shawne Merriman from Maryland ... TE Jeremy Shockey still has not shown up for the team's involuntary workouts despite pleas from Manning. Shockey is said to be in Miami with some of his former Hurricanes teammates taking part in their well-documented offseason training program.




OTHER DRAFT OBSERVATIONS

Penn State had no draft selections for the first time since 1951 ...

Two of the biggest surprises for me involved former USC WR Mike Williams: The Vikings picked speedy Troy Williamson ahead of him at No. 7, and the Lions took Williams despite having chosen a receiver in the first round the past two years (Charles Rogers and Roy Williams). Curious move by Detroit. I believe Williams will be an exceptional pro, but if all three (or even two) of these receivers play up to their potential, how do they expect to afford all of them without neglecting other areas on the roster?

Heisman Trophy winner Jason White wasn't selected, but a whopping 11 of his Oklahoma teammates were. White is the first Heisman winner since Florida State's Charlie Ward (1994) not to be picked. ...

Two teams that I thought had great picks on Day One were the Ravens (Oklahoma WR Mark Clayton, Oklahoma DE Dan Cody) and the Cardinals (Miami CB Antrel Rolle, California RB JJ Arington) ...

I guess it was surprising to see Cal QB Aaron Rodgers fall all the way to No. 24 after he had been projected by some as the top signal-caller in the draft, but don't feel too sorry for him: In one year he's going to make more money than any of us will see in a lifetime. It will be tough, however, going from the Cali sun to Green Bay winters and also becoming the heir apparent to Brett Favre ...

Two interesting picks by the Patriots, taking OL Logan Mankins of Fresno State in the first round and QB Matt Cassel of USC in the seventh round. Mankins was barely on anybody's radar screen as a first-round projection, and Cassel hardly had any playing time with the Trojans as a backup to both Carson Palmer and Matt Leinert. But watch, both of these picks will become Pro Bowlers ...

Interesting selection by the Jaguars in taking Arkansas QB Matt Jones in the first round. Jones is an outstanding athlete and is expected to play WR or TE in the NFL. He is reportedly the first modern player weighing over 240 pounds to be clocked at a 40-yard dash time of under 4.4 seconds. The Jags are taking a huge risk, but it could pay dividends if Jones' athletic abilities translate into success on the football field at the pro level ...

It was hilarious to see the reactions of J-E-T-S fans at the Javits Center when it was announced that their first selection (second round) was kicker Mike Nugent of Ohio State. They can laugh all they want, but a consistent kicking game can be the difference between winning and losing in today's parity-stricken NFL. For reference, see Adam Vinatieri, or better yet, New York's own Doug Brien against the Chargers in the playoffs last year. Nugent is a special player, and plus, Gang Green was still able to get a player they coveted (CB Justin Miller of Clemson) and fill a need with their next pick. Miller could have been taken much higher if not for an arrest (for disorderly conduct and a noise violation) just last week ...

The Broncos really threw a wrench into an otherwise average first day by taking much-maligned RB Maurice Clarett, formerly of Ohio State, with the final pick of the third round. They add a player with lots of baggage who's coming off a dismal performance at the NFL Scouting Combine (although he did have much better efforts at several other workouts), yet if Clarett has any chance of succeeding as a pro it will come as a member of Denver's running back factory. The Broncos have churned out 1,000-yard rushers with regularity, particularly late-round draft picks who flew under the radar. Clarett will have plenty of attention on him thanks to his various scandals and circumstances, but if Mike Shanahan can succeed in making him (or Ron Dayne, for that matter) into a productive pro we'll all need to bow down ...

The Saints may have gotten a steal by taking former Florida State QB Adrian McPherson in the fifth round. The super-gifted athlete (considered to have Michael Vick-like talent) was booted from the Seminoles for a gambling scandal (you have to be pretty screwed up to actually get kicked off a football team known as the "Criminoles") and spent the last year lighting up the Arena Football League. Don't scoff: you may have heard of a guy named Kurt Warner who did the same thing a few years back before winning league and Super Bowl MVPs ...

Some players who really fell far: Connecticut QB Dan Orlovsky (fifth round, Lions - hyped as a first-rounder prior to his senior season), and Wisconsin DT Anttaj Hawthorne (sixth round, Raiders - originally thought to be better than teammate and first-round DE Erasmus James; Hawthorne was busted for marijuana at the combine) ...

This year's Mr. Irrelevant is TE Andy Stokes of William Penn, taken by the Pats with the final pick of the draft (No. 255 overall). According to the tradition, Stokes will be treated to all these parties/banquets in his honor, but the real good news is that four of the last six Mr. Irrelevants (including Giants FB Jim Finn) are still currently on NFL rosters.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 10:43 PM [edit]

GIANTS UPDATE

Like the rest of the NFL, the Giants are preparing for the 2005 NFL Draft .... the only problem is, they won't have a first-round pick because of last year's trade with the Chargers for QB Eli Manning. The Giants don't consider this to be a problem however, because they're still ecstatic over getting their quarterback of the future, plus they've already addressed most of their pressing team needs through free agency.

Barring any trades, Big Blue's first pick will be near the top of the second round, No. 43 overall. It's considered to be a relatively weak draft, and the Giants believe they can get a player who is just as talented as most who will be picked late in the first round. One name that's come up is Florida RB Ciatrick Fason, but other areas that the Giants will be looking to upgrade include the secondary, defensive tackle, and perhaps later in the draft a blocking tight end.

If any Giants fans out there are concerned with their team's first pick coming so late, here are some tidbits that might ease your mind. Two talented running backs were recently chosen with the 43rd pick: Cowboys rookie Julius Jones, and former Bengal-turned-Patriot Corey Dillon. Also, some other outstanding second-round Giants draft picks: Tiki Barber, Michael Strahan, Amani Toomer and Joe Morris. All hope is not lost.

I'll be attending the Giants' draft day party at the Meadowlands on Saturday, so I'll be sure to bring you all the latest news from Big Blue camp.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 11:30 PM [edit]

In response to my 2005 MLB Season Preview, a certain Chris Korman says that I'm "biased" and that "the Phillies rule" .... you may be right that I'm biased, Chris, but that's hardly a convincing argument that the Phils will finish any better than third in the NL East ...




In other news, I won my office NCAA Tournament pool, a cool $80 thanks to North Carolina's victory .... even more importantly than the cash, I beat out some office heavyweights, including the publisher and the metro editor, and hopefully won some office respect ...




So I went to see Sin City the other day. I have to say it was pretty cool ... mad violent, but cool. It's unlike any other film, and it's got some quite unique characters also, definitely worth checking out.




So what's up with all the famous deaths lately, first Johnnie Cochran, then Mitch Hedberg, now the Pope ... sounds like a good scenario for a joke actually, Johnnie Cochran, Mitch Hedberg and the Pope walk into a bar ....

Another notable recent passing was the Greene family dog, Sherlock ... he will be missed.




GIANTS UPDATE
New York restructured S Shaun Williams' contract, allowing the long-tenured Giant to return for a ninth season rather than retire.

Also, an interesting story as reported by Giants.com: Last year, QB Eli Manning wanted to wear No. 10, but that jersey was already taken by P Jeff Feagles, so in exchange for the number, Manning agreed to pay for a Florida vacation for Feagles and his family ... well this year, WR Plaxico Burress wanted Feagles' new No. 17, so in return, Burress is paying for a renovated kitchen at Feagles' home in Arizona. Not a bad deal, huh.

Finally, the Giants organization is going to sue the developers of the future Xanadu entertainment complex that's currently being built at the Meadowlands, claiming that it violates their lease and will create too much traffic on gamedays ... which seems odd, because the Giants are already planning to build a new, state-of-the art stadium, and you'd think the sides would be able to integrate the two projects and really build something worthwhile that accomodates everyone ... so we'll see.




Finally, I'd like to share a quick review of a new album I've been digging lately ...

Corrosion of Conformity (C.O.C.) - In the Arms of God

Even though they've been around for a long time, C.O.C. has kind of been under my radar .... I know a few songs here and there, I knew they were an important hardcore/metal crossover band in the 80s and turned into more a of a hard rock type band ... but apparently I've really been missing out, at least according to what I'm hearing on this album.

Anyway, In the Arms of God is a pretty serious hard rock record. There's a definite Black Sabbath influence/worship; in fact, "Paranoid Opioid" sounds like a lost tune from Masters of Reality, or a sort of speedier "Hand of Doom"/anti-drugs tune that takes plenty of Sabbath-style twists and turns and even features an Ozzy-esque distorted vocal in the chorus. Other heavy influences include blues (intro to "Stone Breakers"), southern rock ("So Much Left Behind") stoner rock ("Is It That Way") and Led Zeppelin-inspired folk (the strumming guitar and pained vocals of "Rise River Rise"), each style getting its full due throughout the record. I'm not surprised, considering the contributions singer/lead guitarist Pepper Keenan made during his time in the Phil Anselmo project Down and that band's penchant for bending those genres under the flag of metal. There's also the slightly punkish "Infinite War" (which features vocals by either bassist Mike Dean or second guitarist Woody Weatherman, I'm not sure) and harkens back to their much different early 80s sound.

Keenan and Weatherman's riffs form the backbone of the record, but there's also great performances by Dean and drummer Stanton Moore, who combine for a thundering low-end sound. Keenan's vocals are also pretty solid, and his intelligent political and religious criticisms add another level of enjoyment. The album's highlight comes at the end with the title track, which, after a creepy intro, explodes into an awesome display of monster drumming and monster riffs. It's a must listen, and could be one of the best metal tracks of the year.

In summary, any music fan who's into the harder-edged material by Down, Alice in Chains, Clutch, Crowbar or Load-era Metallica (don't get scared off), with a good amount of Sabbath, Zeppelin and Lynyrd Skynyrd thrown in for good measure, should find themselves right at home. The album combines them all, but offers enough heaviness, originality and skill on its own to stand alone as superb work and one of 2005's top releases.

Jay's Picks: "Paranoid Opioid", "Dirty Hands/Empty Pockets (Already Gone)", "Rise River Rise", "Never Turns to More", "The Backslider", "World on Fire", "In the Arms of God"
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 4:44 PM [edit]

2005 NEW YORK YANKEES SEASON PREVIEW

My spring training correspondents (a.k.a. my parents) weren't able to come up with much info during their trip to Tampa, Fla. (other than the fact that they got Tommy John's autograph), so it looks like I'll have to take care of this myself. Here we go.

CATCHER
Mainstay Jorge Posada will once again be behind the plate. A team leader, he'll face a new challenge this year in getting accustomed to three new starters. John Flaherty is a proven backup and can step in if needed without any defensive dropoff.

FIRST BASE
Perhaps the only positional question mark. Much-maligned former 'roid head Jason Giambi is feeling healthy and appears to have full support from Yankee fans. However, he's still a huge unknown now that he's off the juice - he could hit 30 HRs, or could be a total disaster. That's why fan favorite Tino Martinez was brought in to give them a sure-handed defensive player that would allow Giambi to spend more time as DH. He may have lost a step offensively, but still offers a solid glove, as well as leadership abilities.

SECOND BASE
Miguel Cairo had a nice season last year, transforming himself from a platoon player to a clutch performer, but it may have been a career year and the front office wasn't willing to shell out a big contract. Tony Womack comes over from the NL-champion Cardinals and offers a much-needed stolen base threat at the bottom of the lineup. Veteran infielder Rey Sanchez was also brought in as a bench player, replacing Enrique Wilson.

SHORTSTOP
Team captain Derek Jeter will of course be in his familiar spot. He's taken a liking to the leadoff spot in the batting order and despite a miserable slump last year (during which he was actually booed by Yankee fans!) he still put up solid numbers.

THIRD BASE
Now entering his second year in Pinstripes, the Yankees are hoping to see the MVP-caliber numbers Alex Rodriguez put up as a Ranger and Mariner. Still, A-Rod had a fine offensive season last year and fared even better defensively playing at the hot corner for the first time in his career. He's had a year to adjust to the bright lights of the Big Apple and blood fued with the Red Sox, and owner George Steinbrenner has personally spoken to him about becoming a team leader, so we'll see if he's up to the challenge.

LEFT FIELD
Hideki Matsui has been a huge player for the Yankees thanks to his all-out hustle and disciplined approach to the game. He's adjusted well to the major leagues despite constant media pressure from his home country (not to metion the N.Y. contingent) and the Yanks hope to lock him up with a long-term extension at some point this season.

CENTER FIELD
Sure, Bernie Williams is getting older and more brittle, and trips to the DL have been more frequent. However, the longest-tenured Bomber will somehow get his at-bats and continue to provide a spark for the team, whether it be in the field or as DH. The Kenny Lofton experiment is thankfully over, with the surly veteran being dealt to the Phillies in the offseason. The hustling Bubba Crosby beat out veteran Doug Glanville and utility man Damian Rolls for the back-up job and could be a short-term fill-in at any of the OF positions. The job in center could someday soon belong to prospect Melky Cabrera, who'll begin the year at Double-A.

RIGHT FIELD
Gary Sheffield had a remarkably consistent season last year (arthritis cream or no arthritis cream) despite playing virtually with one arm because of a lingering shoulder problem. The runner-up for AL MVP had offseason surgery, and it's scary to think what he might accomplish in this lineup at 100 percent. Ageless Ruben Sierra, once considered a clubhouse cancer but now a Joe Torre favorite in his second tour of duty with the Yanks, will give Sheff an occasional day off and will get his share of at-bats as a DH or pinch-hitter.

STARTING ROTATION
The acquisition of Randy Johnson is almost priceless because he gives the Yankees so many things: a legitimate ace, a strikeout pitcher, a lefty arm, an intimidator, an equalizer in a short series and someone to strike fear in the hearts of Red Sox. Forget about the cameraman incident earlier this year - Johnson is a professional and the New York spotlight shouldn't bother him. He knows he was brought here for a specific mission, and barring any significant injury time (a distinct possibility at age 42) he should accomplish it.

Carl Pavano gives the Yanks another power pitcher who's relatively young (29) and can eat up innings. The only question is, was last year's breakout season with the Marlins a fluke, or is he moving into his prime years?

Mike Mussina should be breathing a lot easier now that he's no longer forced to be the staff's de facto ace, a role he was thrust into last year with the sudden departures of Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte. He should be much more comfortable with quality arms surrounding him, and the Yanks hope he can bounce back from some of last year's occasional struggles.

New York took something of a gamble on Jaret Wright, who experienced a rebirth last year with the Braves. The righty signed a three-year deal that turned out to be almost identical to the one Jon Lieber got from the Phillies. While Lieber proved he could perform well in the postseason (against Boston, no less), his replacement suffered through a number of inconsistent and injury-riddled seasons before finally getting on track under Atlanta pitching guru Leo Mazzone. Will Wright remember what he learned and prove his worth in the playoffs, or did the Yanks make a mistake in replacing a known commodity like Lieber?

Beleagured Kevin Brown rounds out the rotation simply because GM Brian Cashman couldn't unload him and his hefty salary. For all Brown's success in previous years, he showed he couldn't be trusted last season by foolishly busting up his hand at a crucial stretch in the season and then completely laying down in Game 7 against the Sox. Now he's had an up-and-down spring and a recurring stiffness in his troublesome back returned in his final exhibition start Friday. Still, most major league clubs would love to have a pitcher of Brown's caliber at the back of their rotation. If he should land on the DL for a significant period of time or simply can't perform, owner George Steinbrenner will be sure to find someone else who can.

BULLPEN
Closer Mariano Rivera did show a few slight cracks last year, especially against Boston, and is not quite the absolute sure thing he used to be. That being said, he's still a dominator and there's no one else Torre would want on the mound in a big spot. Mo's taken it very slowly in the offseason because of bursitis in his pitching elbow, but he's declared himself ready to go for the regular season.

Set-up man Tom Gordon had a masterful 2004 regular season and even made the All-Star team, a feat almost unheard of for middle relievers. But in the playoffs, he inexplicably morphed into Byung-Hyun Kim, surrendering hit after hit to the Red Sox in the ALCS and even reportedly vomiting in the bullpen between appearances. It's cause for concern, but the Yanks hope it was just a bad case of butterflies and he'll once again serve as the primary bridge to Rivera.

Paul Quantrill was another key part of that bridge last year before he faded badly down the stretch, compiling an ERA of over 8.00 in his final 29 games. He was hampered by lingering knee trouble and also seemed to be overworked despite having the reputation of being a workhorse, logging his most innings since 1996. With a host of veteran arms added to the bullpen and the expectation of more quality innings from the new starters, Quantrill should be fresher in September and October.

Felix Rodriguez, acquired from Philadelphia for Lofton, adds another veteran live arm to the relief corps. He's tailed off a bit since his better days in 2001-03, but Torre would no doubt love to see him revert to the key player he was for the Giants in their 2002 World Series run.

The next new arm is actually an old one, former Yankee lefthander Mike Stanton, acquired from the Mets in exchange for the enigmatic Felix Heredia. Stanton is familiar with the expectations in the Big Apple and has earned Torre's trust from the championship years of the late 90s and early 200s.

Another familiar face is Steve Karsay, who's said to be completely healed from the major shoulder surgery that's sidelined him for huge chunks of the past two seasons. He did appear in seven games last year, but the Yankees hope to get much more out of their major free-agent investment made prior to the 2002 season and would be delighted if he showed some of his pre-injury capabilities.

Rounding out the bullpen is Tanyon Sturtze, a Devil Rays castoff who's somehow become one of the Bombers' most important pitchers. The versatile Sturtze can serve as a long reliever or set-up man in a pinch, fill in as a spot starter or get crucial outs in a playoff game. He's deservedly won the trust of the coaching staff and could be called on early on in the first few weeks of the season if Brown's back is still acting up.

COACHING STAFF
Torre's been the glue that holds everything together and arguably the most important piece of the organization's success of the past decade. He rededicated himself to the job last year, and although he made some questionable moves in the debacle against Boston, there's no one better qualified to lead this team.

Former Yankee catcher Joe Girardi comes aboard as bench coach after speding a year broadcasting and replaced now-Mets manager Willie Randolph. Girardi, a key member of New York's most recent dynasty is trusted and well-liked among the players and coaching staff and also is familiar with Torre's line of thinking.

Mel Stottlemyre returns for a final season as pitching coach and faces a fresh task in helping three new starters adjust to New York. Bullpen coach Neil Allen is considered a possible future replacement.

Hitting coach Don Mattingly had a successful first year in 2004 and will continue to be groomed for a possible managerial job with the club. Former Yankees Roy White and Luis Sojo return as first-base and third-base coaches, respectively.

SEASON OUTLOOK
A postseason appearance is almost a given thanks to a payroll that exceeds $200 million, and anything less than a World Series appearance would be considered a disaster. It will be interesting to see how the fued with the Red Sox plays out now that their championship has put an end to the "curse," surely changing the dynamic between the two superpowers. The Yankees do not appear to have any significant weaknesses other than their age - however, the rest of the league's contenders are built around veterans who are just as vulnerable to injury. Barring unforseen catastrophe, New York will return to the postseason, and that's ultimately where the members of this club will have to prove their worth. A safe bet is that they'll go all the way.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 4:50 PM [edit]

2005 MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL SEASON PREVIEW, Part 2

NL EAST

1. ATLANTA BRAVES - The constant in their incredible run of 13 straight division titles has been pitching, and with the addition of SP Tim Hudson and closer Dan Kolb, look for the trend to continue.
Player to watch: SP John Smoltz
With the All-Star Kolb in tow, Smoltz moves back to starting rotation after three years as dominating closer. If he can show some of the outstanding stuff of his younger years, look out.

2. FLORIDA MARLINS - Fish boast one of the league's most well-balanced rosters. They picked up a cleanup hitter (Carlos Delgado), veteran starter (Al Leiter) and upgraded at catcher (Paul LoDuca) late last year. Biggest question is at closer, where former Dodgers set-up man Guillermo Mota replaces Armando Benitez who, believe it or not, was teriffic last year.
Player to watch: SP A.J. Burnett
Hasn't yet lived up to his potential, but if he stays healthy he could put up big numbers and cash in as a free agent at end of year.

3. PHILADELPHIA PHILLIES - Underachievers the past few seasons could finally make a postseason run under new manager Charlie Manuel. The offensive talent is there, and so is the bullpen, but does a starting rotation headed by Jon Lieber, Randy Wolf and Corey Lidle really have what it takes?
Player to watch: LF Pat Burrell
Will he be the Pat Burrell of 2002 (.282, 37 HR, 116 RBI) or revert to the disappointments of the past two seasons?

4. NEW YORK METS - Amazin's made wonderful strides to improve themselves with whirlwind offseason that netted CF Carlos Beltran and SP Pedro Martinez, among others, and gave the franchise a much-needed facelift. They still need major help in middle relief, however, and although things are looking up they are probably another year away from seriously contending.
Player to watch: LF Cliff Floyd
If the sometimes-disgruntled veteran can have a big year batting fifth behind C Mike Piazza, he could work wonders for the lineup - or become a valuable bargaining chip for help in the bullpen or elsewhere during a pennant race.

5. WASHINGTON NATIONALS - These aren't the same old Expos. With fan support and a permanent home, plus some decent new pieces like SS Cristian Guzman, RF Jose Guillen and 3B Vinnie Castilla, they'll still finish last, but it should be at least somewhat exciting.
Player to watch: SP Livan Hernandez
He's a workhorse that could be valuable to any big-league staff. With some of the smaller improvements made to the offense, defense, bullpen and rotation, there's a chance he could approach his career high for wins (17).




NL CENTRAL
1. ST. LOUIS CARDINALS - Defending NL champs did lose some important pieces in the offseason (speedster Tony Womack, lefty reliever Steve Kline, SS Edgar Renteria and innings-eater Woody Williams) but added a good leadoff hitter (SS David Eckstein) and an ace (Mark Mulder). They'll also benefit from a full year of having OF Larry Walker, acquired in a late-season trade, batting in front of a modern-day Murderer's Row of 1B Albert Pujols, 3B Scott Rolen and CF Jim Edmonds.
Player to watch: 1B Albert Pujols
His potential impact on the MLB record books is scary. Look at his career numbers after just four seasons: 500 runs, 787 hits, 160 HRs, 504 RBI, .624 slugging, .333 average. Sick.

2. HOUSTON ASTROS - Unfortunately, they were only Carlos Beltran retners and not long-term investors. The loss of the five-tool center fielder, as well as 2B Jeff Kent, combined with CF Lance Berkman's ACL injury and another year of age for LF Craig Biggio and 1B Jeff Bagwell could cause production to drop dramatically. But the trio of SPs Roy Oswalt, Roger Clemens and Andy Pettitte at top of rotation should make them a factor.
Player to watch: SP Roger Clemens
How much longer can Rocket keep this up? At 42, he's given no indication of slowing down. As he goes, so go the 'Stros.

3. CHICAGO CUBS - Success hinges on the top two starters, Mark Prior and Kerry Wood. Sky's the limit for these two guys, and if they're healthy all year (a HUGE if), they're world series contenders. If not, the debacle at the end of last season is a harbinger of things to come.
Player to watch: SS Nomar Garciaparra
Seems like ages ago he was considered the league's top shortstop. With a fresh season on the North Side and the Red Sox drama over thanks to their World Series win, No-mah's primed to put up big numbers in a contract year.

4. PITTSBURGH PIRATES - Arguably the most talent the Bucs have had in the past few years. They should at least break .500 this year, or manager Lloyd McLendon should go. As long as SS Jack Wilson, LF Jason Bay and 1B Craig Wilson didn't all fool us with career years in 2004, and if they can squeeze another productive year out of closer Jose Mesa, they might - and I stress might - make some progress this year.
Player to watch: SP Oliver Perez
Lefty is real deal and could be a No. 1 starter on at least half the teams in the league. Dropoff after him in the Pirates' rotation, however, is major cause for concern.

5. CINCINNATI REDS - Appear to be building a serious club. If the heart of the order - RF Austin Kearns, 1B Sean Casey, LF Adam Dunn and CF Ken Griffey Jr. - can somehow avoid extended trips to the DL, this underrated group of basher's can be among the league's best. Rotation was upgraded with the additions of SPs Eric Milton and Ramon Ortiz, but they'll have to prove they're better than average for the Reds to make some noise.
Player to watch: LF Adam Dunn
The big guy clubbed 46 HRs last season and had over 100 walks, hits and RBIs - the only Red besides Joe Morgan to do so. However, he struck out an MLB-record 195 times. Cutting down on that number could make him an MVP threat.

6. MILWAUKEE BREWERS - Slowly but surely assembling a contender, adding slugging OF Carlos Lee and dealing closer Dan Kolb to the Braves at perhaps his highest value for prized pitching prospect Jose Cappellan. Minors are also bursting with talent led by Prince Fielder, son of former Tigers great Cecil Fielder. That being said, it's going to be a long year.
Player to watch: SP Ben Sheets
Blossomed into a Cy Young-caliber starter last season, his fourth in the big leagues. He could be the cornerstone of the franchise for years to come, so they simply must lock him up with a long-term deal this year. They're trying.




NL WEST
1. SAN DIEGO PADRES - Could sneak up on Dodgers and Giants to win West thanks to talented pitching staff that adds veteran Woody Williams and benefits from friendly confines of Petco Park. Also boast a solid lineup and one of league's top bullpens, with unheralded Scott Linebrink and Akinori Otsuka setting up for Trevor Hoffmann.
Player to watch: CF Dave Roberts
In his brief time with the Red Sox last year, he gained fame for his ALCS Game 4 steal against the Yankees, but now the former Dodger gets a chance to once again be an everyday player. He's capable of 60+ SBs and could score a ton of runs batting leadoff in front of 2B Mark Loretta, LF Ryan Klesko, 1B Phil Nevin and RF Brian Giles.

2. LOS ANGELES DODGERS - Messed with a good thing last year with questionable moves like dealing catcher and team leader Paul LoDuca and set-up man Guillermo Mota, the bridge to super-closer Eric Gagne. Also lost three heavy hitters (CF Steve Finley, RF Shawn Green and 3B Adrian Beltre) and brought in two high priced potential busts, SP Derek Lowe and RF J.D. Drew.
Player to watch: SP Brad Penny
L.A. thought highly enough of him to deal LoDuca and Mota to the Marlins to get him (and 1B Hee Seop Choi). Full recovery from nerve problems in pitching arm is crucial and could give them a solid No. 2 behind Jeff Weaver.

3. SAN FRANCISCO GIANTS - Hopes rest in the knee (and mind) of beleaguered LF Barry Bonds. If he's able to return to the lineup and is his usual self by midseason or earlier, they've got a shot. If not, they're an old bunch with a weak offense and average pitching, aside from stellar SP Jason Schmidt. Only silver lining in Bonds' troubles is opportunity for talented young utility man Pedro Feliz to step in and show his stuff full-time.
Player to watch: RP Armando Benitez
Once considered a lost cause as a big-time pitcher, he experienced a rebirth last year in Florida, saving 47 games with a sparkling 1.29 ERA. A repeat performance would be a huge help.

4. ARIZONA DIAMONDBACKS - Things certainly won't be as bad as last year, despite the fact that SP Randy Johnson is across the country. Contrary to popular belief, D-Backs were able to increase payroll, picking up 3B Troy Glaus, RF Shawn Green and starters Javier Vazquez and Russ Ortiz. Won't be enough to make a run at the division title, but at least they could begin to climb back to respectability.
Player to watch: SP Javier Vazquez
Heralded as a huge pickup by the Yanks last year, he started out strong and even made the AL All-Star team before failing miserably down the stretch. Now the pressure's off and he's back in the NL, where he spent the first six years of his career, so let's see if he can shrug it off.

5. COLORADO ROCKIES - The average baseball fan would be hard-pressed to name a Rockie other than 1B Todd Helton or maybe CF Preston Wilson. With a roster full of prospects like 2B Aaron Miles, SS Clint Barmes, 3B Garrett Atkins and C J.D. Closser, you figure at least a few will come into their own in the rarified air at Coors Field. As for the pitching staff, well, that's a whole different story. Could challenge K.C. for the league's worst record.
Player to watch: 1B Todd Helton
The guy puts up incredible stats, but don't be field - his numbers away from Colorado are nearly just as good, and just recently he vehemently denied a broadcaster's claim that he might be on steroids. He also has two Gold Gloves in his trophy case and is said to be a model citizen - too bad no one outside of Denver or fantasy baseball knows much about him.




POSTSEASON PREDICTIONS

AL East: Yankees
AL Central: Twins
AL West: Angels
Wild Card: Red Sox

ALDS: Yankees over Red Sox; Angels over Twins
ALCS: Yankees over Angels

NL East: Braves
NL Central: Cardinals
NL West: Padres
Wild Card: Marlins

NLDS: Cardinals over Marlins; Braves over Padres
NLCS: Cardinals over Braves

World Series: Yankees over Cardinals in six games

AL MVP: Vladimir Guerrerro, Angels
AL Cy Young: Randy Johnson, Yankees
AL Rookie of Year: 3B Dallas MacPherson, Angels
AL Manager of Year: Eric Wedge, Indians

NL MVP: 1B Albert Pujols, Cardinals
NL Cy Young: Tim Hudson, Braves
NL Rookie of Year: 3B Garrett Atkins, Rockies
NL Manager of Year: Bruce Bochy, Padres
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 12:24 AM [edit]

2005 MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL SEASON PREVIEW, Part 1

AL EAST
1. NEW YORK YANKEES - Most complete team in baseball - as they should be, given their payroll. Three-fifths of the rotation was beefed up after last year's major disappointment. Only question, of course, is how they will fare in October.
Player to Watch: SP Randy Johnson
Will he be the missing piece to put them over the top, a la Boston's Curt Schilling in 2004?

2. BOSTON RED SOX - Lineup actually improved with addition of SS Edgar Renteria, but rotation takes a big hit with loss of Pedro Martinez and Derek Lowe. Will there be a hangover from last year's miracle season?
Player to watch: SP Curt Schilling
No Pedro behind him in the rotation this year, plus he's still got a gimpy ankle. Can he be the savior again?

3. BALTIMORE ORIOLES - Even a mediocre season from RF/DH Sammy Sosa will produce 35+ HRs in Camden Yards, making a serious lineup even better. Starting rotation is dangerous too, but for all the wrong reasons. Off-field trouble involving ace-turned-No. 4 starter Sydney Ponson (punching a judge in Aruba after a jet ski run-in, plus a DUI arrest) doesn't help matters.
Player to watch: RP B.J. Ryan
Dominant as a set-up man in 2004, can the lefty be equally as good as the O's closer?

4. TAMPA BAY DEVIL RAYS - Team of blossoming young stars, led by All-Star LF Carl Crawford (capable of 50 SBs, 100 runs and a .300 average) could avoid division cellar for a second season.
Player to watch: SP Scott Kazmir
At least another year away from emerging as a true superstar, but southpaw will eventually make the Mets rue the day they dealt him for Victor Zambrano.

5. TORONTO BLUE JAYS - Loss of 1B/DH Carlos Delgado from middle of batting order is damaging. Only hope for contention is for SP Roy Halladay to return to Cy Young form, and that alone may not be enough.
Player to watch: CF Vernon Wells
Jays' key offensive player cannot have another down year.




AL CENTRAL
1. MINNESOTA TWINS - They're hoping to continue their small-market magic act by contending with the big boys at one-third the payroll. Entire pitching staff returns intact, and talented youngsters plug holes left by SS Cristian Guzman and 3B Corey Koskie.
Player to watch: SP Johan Santana
Who else but the 2004 AL Cy Young winner and last year's breakout star? He wowed us with a dominating second half - imagine if he can keep it up for a full season.

2. CLEVELAND INDIANS - Tribe had some surprising success last year before fading down the stretch. Can infusion of a few veterans (RF Juan Gonzalez, SP Kevin Millwood, 3B Aaron Boone) put them over the top?
Player to watch: C Victor Martinez
Looking to establish himself as the game's premier backstop in just his second season.

3. CHICAGO WHITE SOX - Remade a good portion of their lineup, replacing power (RF Magglio Ordonez, LF Carlos Lee) with speed (LF Scott Podsednik, 2B Tadahito Iguchi), but will it make a difference in AL's most competitive division?
Player to watch: CF Aaron Rowand
Will need to duplicate or better last year's breakout numbers (.310, 24 HRs, 151 hits) to make up for lost pop.

4. DETROIT TIGERS - Picking up RF Magglio Ordonez - especially from a divisional rival - could be huge if injured knee holds up, and indications are it will. With offense looking good, hopes rest in talented but underachieving pitching staff led by emerging Jeremy Bonderman and improved bullpen that added Kyle Farnsworth and Troy Percival to go with Ugueth Urbina (if he doesn't get traded).
Player to watch: DH Dimitri Young
Injured much of last year, but a return to his usual numbers (.300, 80 RBI, 160 hits) isn't out of question batting behind Ordonez and C Ivan Rodriguez.

5. KANSAS CITY ROYALS - Will resemble a AAA team rather than a big-league club, with exception of 1B Mike Sweeney, who could be dealt to a contender. 1B/DH Ken Harvey, an All-Star last year, was surprisingly demoted to the minors. 2005 will serve as training for future stars like C John Buck and 3B Mark Teahen, acquired in exchange for CF Carlos Beltran last year.
Player to watch: SP Zack Greinke
Twenty-one year old has the makings of a future star, and it would be nice to see him blossom into K.C.'s future ace.




AL WEST
1. LOS ANGELES ANGELS OF ANAHEIM - New CF Steve Finley gives this ridiculously named ballclub one of the league's best OF trios. If SP Bartolo Colon picks up where he left off in second half of '04 and RP Francisco Rodriguez can effectively replace Troy Percival as closer, they could run away with division title.
Player to watch: 3B Dallas MacPherson
Rookie had 40 HRs and 126 RBI between AA and AAA last year. He could start out on DL with a bad back, but by end of year he could be AL Rookie of the Year and have Angels fans forgetting about the departed Troy Glaus.

2. TEXAS RANGERS - Manager Buck Showalter is blessed with an abundance of young offensive talent, but they could be one or two quality starters away from fielding a serious playoff contender.
Player to watch: 1B Mark Teixeira
Entering his third big-league season, the heavy hitter (.550 slugging percentage, 38 dingers in '04) is primed for more big numbers in hitter-friendly Ballpark in Arlington.

3. SEATTLE MARINERS - Best-case scenario: 1B Richie Sexson returns to 2003 form, 3B Adrian Beltre proves last year wasn't a fluke, and the starting rotation and bullpen rebound from an awful 2004. Worst-case scenario: Can things get any worse than last year?
Player to watch: CF Jeremy Reed
After 18 games with M's last season, youngster gets a prime No. 2 spot in the lineup between RF Ichiro Suzuki and Beltre.

4. OAKLAND ATHLETICS - Moneyballers once again find themselves replacing superstars with young talent like OF Nick Swisher, SPs Dan Haren and Joe Blanton, and RP Huston Street. A very talented group, but can the A's squeeze enough out of them before they depart via free agency like the rest?
Player to watch: SP Rich Harden
Promising flame-thrower and No. 2 starter gets unenviable task of filling void left by departed Mark Mulder and Tim Hudson - talk about some big white shoes to fill.




COMING TOMORROW: Part Two, the National League
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 1:58 PM [edit]

It's almost time for a second season of fantasy baseball in my league at work (Anal Leakage II: Anal Revenge) ... I'm looking to repeat as league champion, mind you. We had a live draft this year (my first), so let's take a look at the Nittany Loins' 2005 lineup:

C - Ivan Rodriguez, J.D. Closser
1B - David Ortiz, Mark Teixeira
2B - Mark Loretta, Ryan Freel
SS - Edgar Renteria
3B - David Wright
OF - Jim Edmonds, Larry Walker, Barry Bonds, Dave Roberts, Jacque Jones, Craig Wilson
SP - Randy Johnson, Mike Mussina, Greg Maddux, David Wells, Al Leiter, Jeff Weaver
RP - Mariano Rivera, Keith Foulke, B.J. Ryan, Juan Rincon

I have to say I'm pretty happy with my roster for the most part ... the starting rotation is a little old, so some lengthy trips to the DL could be costly ... I just had to take a chance on Bonds in the 13th round, even if he doesn't come back until the second half of the year he could be the push I need to get to the top of the standings. I also have a few familiar faces - Roberts, Wilson, Maddux, Wells, Rivera and Ryan - who helped me win the league championship last season. It's definitely going to be a fun ride.



NCAA TOURNAMENT UPDATE

As for my NCAA tournament pool, I'm in a tie for first place with one of my co-workers (who had three of the Final Four correct - I had two). I can probably pull it out if, by some chance, Louisville knocks off Illinois and then North Carolina beats them for the championship. We'll see.




GIANTS UPDATE

A few minor transactions from the past week or so ... the G-Men re-signed FB Jim Finn and QB Jesse Palmer, who will be either the second- or third-string QB along with new signee Jim Miller. They also cut OL Barry Stokes and WR Tony Johnson, a Penn State product who had been allocated to NFL Europe but couldn't make a roster. Sucks to be him.




PENN STATERS ON THE MOVE

A couple Nittany Lions found new homes this week, as WR Joe Jurevicius signed on with the Seahawks (joining former Lion Bobby Engram) and DE Courtney Brown joined the Broncos. Good luck to both of these gentlemen.




Speaking of PSU, things haven't been so great lately, athletics-wise. Last week, the women's basketball team was shocked in the first round of the NCAA tournament by 13th-seeded Liberty, a school that had never won a tourney game and, even worse, was founded by televangelist Jerry Falwell (who, you may recall, blamed the 9/11 attacks on gays, lesbians, feminisits and the ACLU). Things got even worse for the Lady Lions when two players supposedly asked for their release from Penn State (or were forced to leave, depending on who you believe). One player, Jennifer Harris, was a highly touted high school player and McDonald's All American who was penciled in as the starting point guard next year. Along with the 2005 graduates (including All-American guard Tanisha Wright) the Lions are losing EIGHT players from their squad. Needless to say, there may be a slight dropoff in their success next season.

Over on the men's side, the Lions just lost one of their best players in junior Aaron Johnson, who has asked to transfer. I guess it's only fitting that the move now leaves just one player left over from the regime of former coach Jerry Dunn. New coach Ed DeChellis does deserve a few more years to revamp the program as he sees fit. However, it's pretty discouraging to note that both Dunn (now an assistant coach at West Virginia) and former guard Sharif Chambliss (now with Wisconsin) went deep into the tournament while Penn State sat home and watched like the rest of us.

As for football, spring practice is now underway in Happy Valley in preparation for the annual Blue-White scrimmage later in April. It just wouldn't be spring, however, unless there was at least one off-the-field incident involving football players to report ... actually this one has been floating around for a while, I had some inside info from one of my State College contacts, but more facts only recently came to light ... apparently a couple players (starters, no less) who share an on-campus apartment were busted shooting multiple arrows into a wall. Not a huge deal I guess, but it was pretty reckless and stupid, and apparently they had been warned prior to that ... it wasn't the first trouble for one of the fellows either, so I don't have too much pity for him. The word is that the players are suspended indefinitely pending a judicial affairs investigation and all that ... for the sake of the team I hope they can return, although honestly I've had enough with these stupid incidents involving guys who represent my school and should know better.




In other news, there were two notable deaths recently: attorney Johnnie Cochran, and actor Barney Martin of Seinfeld fame. Cochran, of course, is best known for defending O.J. Simpson in his murder trial and adding the timeless phrase "if it doesn't fit, you must acquit" to popular culture, while Martin played Jerry Seinfeld's elderly father Morty on the show. In a weird twist, Cochran was the inspiration for another memorable Seinfeld character, attorney Jackie Chiles. Now that's egregious, preposterous ... outrageous!




I was thinking about this the other day during a lengthy car ride: has there ever been a more diverse, talented and consistently excellent rock band than Led Zeppelin? A case could be made for the Beatles I guess, but other than them, I defy you find one.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 1:06 PM [edit]

NCAA Tournament Update

It doesn't seem like it, but apparently I've had a pretty good run through the first two rounds of the tourney. In fact, I'm in first place in the Daily Record office pool, thanks to an 11-5 record in the second round. I'm also in pretty good shape for the rest of the tournament, as I have 11 of my Sweet 16 teams left and three of my Final Four picks still alive. Go me.
posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 11:10 PM [edit]

So, how's your bracket?

Mine was doing fine ... until tonight. Freakin Syracuse loses to Vermont (I told you it'd be the game to watch, didn't I?) ... then Kansas falls to Bucknell. I was a pretty solid 13-3 on the tournament's first day, but thanks to these two costly upsets (especially the Orange, one of my Final Four teams) I am now a very ordinary 25-7. But hey, this is what March Madness is all about, anything can happen and there's a long way to go until the bracket is complete.

Two of my upset specials came up big, Wisconsin-Milwaukee over Alabama and UAB over LSU. Iowa didn't fare so well against Cincinnati, but Niagara actually had a chance against Oklahoma - the Purple Eagles were only down by like five late in the second half before the game slipped away.

As I just mentioned, my prediction for an exciting Cuse-Vermont game was on the money, although the outcome wasn't exactly what I had in mind. The Orange certainly didn't play its best game, but you have to admit the Catamounts and their retirement-bound coach are turning out to be a pretty exciting story so far. As for my other highlighted game, Utah vs. UTEP (which I didn't even get to see because of the steroids hearings, and I don't think was shown much on CBS anyway) this Andrew Bogut had 24 points, 11 rebounds and four blocks. I'll have to catch him this afternoon against Oklahoma.

As for some second-round games to watch:
For starters, Texas Tech vs. Gonzaga is pretty intriguing and it kicks off this afternoon's action at 1:10 p.m.. I have Bobby Knight's boys getting past the third-seeded Zags. The two 8 o'clock games are pretty interesting 7 vs. 2 matchups, West Virginia-Wake Forest and Cincy-Kentucky. Especially watch for WVU's Kevin Pittsnoggle to come up big against the Demon Deacons.

As for Saturday, try Georgia Tech-Louisville (4:45 p.m.) ... it should have big implications for a lot of people's Final Four picks since there doesn't seem to be a lot of confidence in Washington as a No. 1 seed, leaving the Albuquerque bracket divided among the Yellow Jackets, Cardinals and Deacons.




As for the steroid hearings ... pretty fascinating stuff, I kept my eye on it throughout most of the day on ESPN. Mark McGwire obviously came off looking pretty bad with his refusal to answer questions and his repeated "I'm retired" and "I'm not here to talk about the past" statements when it came to steroid use. He almost would have been better off admitting that he used them, because at least then he could have apologized to the nation and his pledges to help kids in whatever way possible would have been viewed as sincere. Now, everybody believes he did steroids and, even worse, didn't tell the truth to the entire country under oath. As for Sammy Sosa and Rafael Palmeiro, whether they were being completely honest or not they at least came straight out and said they hadn't juiced, and thus they'll get the benefit of the doubt.

A few other issues:

- It's amazing how sitting before Congress can make people change their tunes. Jose Canseco writes an entire book based on the idea that "hey kids, steroids could actually be good for you if you use them properly," then comes out and says he's changed his mind and doesn't believe that anymore. Curt Schilling shoots his mouth off to the media about how huge the steroid problem is in baseball and how something drastic needs to be done, then says he "grossly overstated" the problem and believes MLB can fix the problem on its own. Bud Selig goes on and on about how he's been tough on steroids in the minor leagues and if he had his way he'd be tougher at the major league level, then says that steroids aren't really a big problem. Amazing.

- Did you catch Canseco's warning that soon there's going to be a "wood shortage" and MLB will have to switch to aluminum bats? As far as gems of wisdom go, that almost rivals his infamous 60 Minutes comment about the "gluteus maximus - which is the butt muscle."

- Also, did you see Canseco's "lawyer"? The dude looked like either A) a Sopranos extra, B) the WWE Intercontinental Champion or C) a guy who's had too many injections in his gluteus maximus - which is the butt muscle.

- Was Sosa's "interpreter" really necessary? The man's been in the major leagues for 15 years ... and he had to have his lawyer read his opening statement (which, presumably, contained his own, genuine inner thoughts as written by himself, right?) ... plus, whenever he was asked a question all he did was agree with McGwire or Palmeiro anyway.




GIANTS UPDATE

In a shocking turn of developments, the Giants agreed to a six-year deal with WR Plaxico Burress, one week after the G-Men released a statement saying they had rescinded their contract offer to him after he turned it down. Burress changed agents after that, found out that there really wasn't a market for him anywhere else, came crawling back, agreed to the Giants' demands that he take a physical, and agreed to essentially the same $25 million deal that he passed on. It's been quite a soap opera, but now he's officially a Giant. I'm pretty split on the move, so let's take a look at it from both angles.

Positives: The Giants needed a WR, and he was the best one available. Burress is an upgrade over the two other free agents they were looking at (Corey Bradford and David Terrell) and, at least on paper, better than any receiver that might fall to them in the second round of the draft. ... His contract is relatively affordable, and the Giants did not have to significantly overpay or increase their original offer. ... He is only 27 years old, should be entering his prime and will be a much needed deep threat they can pair with young QB Eli Manning for several years to come.

Negatives: Burress has never been a No. 1 receiver but will be expected to fill that role with the Giants. (For reference, see Peerless Price's similar move to the Falcons). How will he fare without Pro-Bowler Hines Ward on the field? ... Burress managed only 35 catches and five TDs last season. Granted, he was the No. 2 WR, but that was a contract year, on a team that went 15-1 ... Burress is said to have something of a bad attitude. Coach Tom Coughlin may be a hard ass, but I haven't yet seen much evidence of him decisively dealing with locker-room distractions. Will the two personalities be able to coexist?

Overall, I have to view the move as a positive. Burress is clearly a talented player and he comes at the right price. The Giants have made significant steps to fill their needs, and I can only hope that Burress will keep his head on straight and blossom into a big-time player for Big Blue.

posted by JASON BARTOLONE at 2:00 AM [edit]