Thursday, December 31, 2015
Two Big Games Tonight
College football's four best teams play this afternoon and evening. Root for the underdog. Hope for lots of points.
That's the best way to enjoy these games.
That's the best way to enjoy these games.
Golden State Gets Whomped
Former T-Wolve, J.J. Barea led the Dallas Mavericks to a rout of the Warriors last night. Golden State was missing Stephen Curry due to a leg injury. 114-91 was the final.
The Warriors are now 29-2 on the season.
The Warriors are now 29-2 on the season.
Wednesday, December 30, 2015
Once Weres
Peyton Manning, Tiger Woods, and Kobe Bryant.
They've been getting a lot of press lately, and it's all for the same reason. They're old and their bodies are starting to fail them.
It wasn't that long ago that everyone was wondering how many Super Bowls Manning would win. The answer to that question now looks like ONE. He's had great success at quarterback over the years, but getting back to the Super Bowl, and actually WINNING another one seems remote at this point. His team has a chance again this year, but even if that happens, he might not be its quarterback.
Tiger Woods had the most incredible start to his career. People were wondering how many years it would take him to pass Jack Nicklaus for the most major titles of all-time. He was so far ahead of Nicklaus' pace that it wasn't even a contest...
...but then injuries happened, and domestic unrest. He had his 40th birthday yesterday, and there are rumors that he can barely walk. The rehab from his latest back surgery, which was months ago, hasn't even started yet. It isn't even scheduled yet. And a once promising career is now most likely over.
There are younger, better golfers now, and the sport has grown passed him. And Jack Nicklaus's records once more look very safe.
And then there's Kobe. He has had the career that everyone thought he would. His scoring and championships are legendary. But even he can't control the effects left by years of injuries. He's on his farewell tour this year, playing an aging guard on one of the worst teams in the league. Fans voting has left him atop the All-Star balloting. That's his last hurrah.
They were all great once. Their careers are all ending with a whimper.
They've been getting a lot of press lately, and it's all for the same reason. They're old and their bodies are starting to fail them.
It wasn't that long ago that everyone was wondering how many Super Bowls Manning would win. The answer to that question now looks like ONE. He's had great success at quarterback over the years, but getting back to the Super Bowl, and actually WINNING another one seems remote at this point. His team has a chance again this year, but even if that happens, he might not be its quarterback.
Tiger Woods had the most incredible start to his career. People were wondering how many years it would take him to pass Jack Nicklaus for the most major titles of all-time. He was so far ahead of Nicklaus' pace that it wasn't even a contest...
...but then injuries happened, and domestic unrest. He had his 40th birthday yesterday, and there are rumors that he can barely walk. The rehab from his latest back surgery, which was months ago, hasn't even started yet. It isn't even scheduled yet. And a once promising career is now most likely over.
There are younger, better golfers now, and the sport has grown passed him. And Jack Nicklaus's records once more look very safe.
And then there's Kobe. He has had the career that everyone thought he would. His scoring and championships are legendary. But even he can't control the effects left by years of injuries. He's on his farewell tour this year, playing an aging guard on one of the worst teams in the league. Fans voting has left him atop the All-Star balloting. That's his last hurrah.
They were all great once. Their careers are all ending with a whimper.
Tuesday, December 29, 2015
Gophers Win Bowl Game!
Just to set the record straight, I didn't even know the Gophers were IN a bowl game this year. A 5-7 regular season record isn't going to impress many bowl sponsors. But I did come upon their game last night with about a minute left, and I decided to watch that last minute.
I've never heard of the Quick Lane Bowl either, but there you are. The Gophers won, snapping a seven bowl game appearance losing streak.
And as long as we're admitting things, I thought the Gophers were the OTHER team while I was watching. My wife had to point out to me that I was rooting for the wrong team.
Did I mention that the Gophers didn't impress me much this year despite their big bowl game win?
Maybe I'll recognize them NEXT year.
I've never heard of the Quick Lane Bowl either, but there you are. The Gophers won, snapping a seven bowl game appearance losing streak.
And as long as we're admitting things, I thought the Gophers were the OTHER team while I was watching. My wife had to point out to me that I was rooting for the wrong team.
Did I mention that the Gophers didn't impress me much this year despite their big bowl game win?
Maybe I'll recognize them NEXT year.
Monday, December 28, 2015
Football!
Carolina lost. Seattle lost. New England lost. Pittsburgh lost. Green Bay lost.
The Vikings won. Big.
Big. Big. Big. Big. Big.
What a dominating game!
One week left. The whole shooting match. The last scheduled game of the season. Primetime next Sunday night.
Who would have thunk it?
The Vikings won. Big.
Big. Big. Big. Big. Big.
What a dominating game!
One week left. The whole shooting match. The last scheduled game of the season. Primetime next Sunday night.
Who would have thunk it?
Sunday, December 27, 2015
Connections
Former Twins' second baseman, Luis Castillo (2006-2007) is on the Hall of Fame ballot this year.
When the Twins fell out of contention in 2007 we traded him for Drew Butera, who was on the Twins for four seasons.
We traded Drew for Miguel Sulbaran who never made it to the majors, but we traded Miguel for Eduardo Nunez, who has been a Twins bench player for four seasons.
So Castillo is directly responsible for Butera and Nunez both being on the Twins eight years after we traded him. Few players give you eight good years of major league service after you trade them. But the Twins have gotten a lot of milage out of that one trade.
Who knows? Maybe the Twins will get a roster player for Nunez if we trade him as well. Castillo was not only a great second baseman, he was the gift that kept on giving.
When the Twins fell out of contention in 2007 we traded him for Drew Butera, who was on the Twins for four seasons.
We traded Drew for Miguel Sulbaran who never made it to the majors, but we traded Miguel for Eduardo Nunez, who has been a Twins bench player for four seasons.
So Castillo is directly responsible for Butera and Nunez both being on the Twins eight years after we traded him. Few players give you eight good years of major league service after you trade them. But the Twins have gotten a lot of milage out of that one trade.
Who knows? Maybe the Twins will get a roster player for Nunez if we trade him as well. Castillo was not only a great second baseman, he was the gift that kept on giving.
Two Great Games
Packers at 3:30. At Arizona.
Vikes at 7:30. At Minnesota against the Giants without Odell.
The outcomes of those games could set up an interesting season finale next week.
Much like the Twins this season, the Vikes are surprising many.
Go Vikes!
Vikes at 7:30. At Minnesota against the Giants without Odell.
The outcomes of those games could set up an interesting season finale next week.
Much like the Twins this season, the Vikes are surprising many.
Go Vikes!
Saturday, December 26, 2015
NBA Action
Regular readers know I don't watch much basketball, but yesterday I found the Golden State/Cleveland game early and decided to watch the WHOLE THING. Curry vs. Lebron. An NBA finals rematch from last year. THE game of the year so far...
Thoughts? Though I left the game on in the background I found myself doing other things around the house instead. When Curry got hurt, I kind of lost interest. It was a sloppy game and neither LeBron nor the returning Curry did much shooting or scoring. It was always Golden State up by a couple of buckets. And the fouling at the end was ridiculous even by NBA standards.
In short, the NBA's showcase game of the year was really not worth watching.
It just made me long for NFL action Sunday.
Thoughts? Though I left the game on in the background I found myself doing other things around the house instead. When Curry got hurt, I kind of lost interest. It was a sloppy game and neither LeBron nor the returning Curry did much shooting or scoring. It was always Golden State up by a couple of buckets. And the fouling at the end was ridiculous even by NBA standards.
In short, the NBA's showcase game of the year was really not worth watching.
It just made me long for NFL action Sunday.
Friday, December 25, 2015
Merry Christmas!
I came across an amusing item this morning. What does Rudolph do in the Christmas off-season? Why play baseball of course!
Thursday, December 24, 2015
Christmas in Mayberry
CBS will be broadcasting one of the BEST episodes of the Andy Griffith show Christmas night. The one where Ben Weaver wants a prisoner to be in jail for Christmas. For the first time ever, it will be shown in color. They'll be showing Aunt Bee's pickle contest episode as well.
I wish they wouldn't do the same colorization process that they are doing with "Lucy," but at least Andy is back in primetime on CBS.
We're really looking forward to this.
I wish they wouldn't do the same colorization process that they are doing with "Lucy," but at least Andy is back in primetime on CBS.
We're really looking forward to this.
Wednesday, December 23, 2015
WWE
I haven't stopped watching pro wrestling, I just watch it much less. Vince McMahon's vision of what's best for fans no longer matches what longtime fans wish to see. It started with his reluctance to push Daniel Bryan as champ a couple years back, and it continues with his insistence on pushing Roman Reigns, leaving all other worthy contenders (the true fan favorites) to fend miserably for themselves.
The womens' division, which he insists on calling the DIVA's division gets worse week by week, to the point where their product is almost unwatchable. Last night's live Smackdown was a great example of that. The announcers actually criticized a female wrestler for NOT being distracted enough to help someone at ringside while she was IN A MATCH with an opponent. She focused on the match and WON instead of blowing the match to help someone and lose. Her friend at ringside was fine after the match was over so there really was no reason to help her, yet the announcers continued to disparage the woman who kept her focus on the actual match and won.
Wrestling fans know this is all scripted, but for any of it to work, you have to PRETEND it's real competition, AND that winning or losing matters. If losing doesn't matter, why are you even "competing?" This type of writing now permeates the whole WWE universe.
Wrestling has always been a joke to non-fans. We all get that, too, but all scripted television isn't "real." You can't defy logic and reason every step of the way and expect anyone but small children to enjoy your product. That goes for every scripted show on television. Wrestling barely makes sense to begin with. You can't ignore good writing and say it doesn't matter. You come off looking like Roller Derby, or even worse NASCAR. With a product as absurd as pro wrestling you have to try even harder. You need better writing than your average TV show, not worse.
Vince is losing viewers. Eventually he'll have to do something about his inane plotting and writing. Forcing average entertainers down our throats and calling them champions and superstars is beginning to wear a bit thin.
He has far better wrestlers to push, but he's currently blind to it all. Making his young women wrestlers look like morons isn't helping their cause any either. He could start by just having wins and losses matter again. Over time, folks will get their suspension of disbelief back.
IF they chose to continue watching.
The womens' division, which he insists on calling the DIVA's division gets worse week by week, to the point where their product is almost unwatchable. Last night's live Smackdown was a great example of that. The announcers actually criticized a female wrestler for NOT being distracted enough to help someone at ringside while she was IN A MATCH with an opponent. She focused on the match and WON instead of blowing the match to help someone and lose. Her friend at ringside was fine after the match was over so there really was no reason to help her, yet the announcers continued to disparage the woman who kept her focus on the actual match and won.
Wrestling fans know this is all scripted, but for any of it to work, you have to PRETEND it's real competition, AND that winning or losing matters. If losing doesn't matter, why are you even "competing?" This type of writing now permeates the whole WWE universe.
Wrestling has always been a joke to non-fans. We all get that, too, but all scripted television isn't "real." You can't defy logic and reason every step of the way and expect anyone but small children to enjoy your product. That goes for every scripted show on television. Wrestling barely makes sense to begin with. You can't ignore good writing and say it doesn't matter. You come off looking like Roller Derby, or even worse NASCAR. With a product as absurd as pro wrestling you have to try even harder. You need better writing than your average TV show, not worse.
Vince is losing viewers. Eventually he'll have to do something about his inane plotting and writing. Forcing average entertainers down our throats and calling them champions and superstars is beginning to wear a bit thin.
He has far better wrestlers to push, but he's currently blind to it all. Making his young women wrestlers look like morons isn't helping their cause any either. He could start by just having wins and losses matter again. Over time, folks will get their suspension of disbelief back.
IF they chose to continue watching.
Tuesday, December 22, 2015
Inside the Twins
Projected Twins Bullpen (based on who we still have)
Closer: Perkins
Setup 1: Kevin Jepson
Setup 2: Trevor May (The Twins have said they want him as a starter this season but he doesn't fit)
Middle Relief 1: Casey Fien
Middle Relief 2: open (But we just signed veteran Fernando Abad who will probably get first chance at this because he is left-handed and has 250 major league appearances.)
Long Man: Ricky Nolasco (He's under contract, the Twins can't trade him, and there's no way they want him in the rotation unless someone gets injured)
Projected Rotation?
Tyler Duffy, Kyle Gibson, Phil Hughes, Tommy Milone, and Ervin Santana
There's not much room for anyone else, though the Twins could add one more guy to the bullpen. They went with 11 pitchers most of the year last season. So I expect them to do that again this year. Molitor likes to have that extra guy as a bench player/pinch-hitter/extra catcher/extra infielder/extra outfielder kind of guy.
Even if this is the current plan, injuries occur all the time, especially to pitchers. So nothing is less solid than a pitching roster.
Closer: Perkins
Setup 1: Kevin Jepson
Setup 2: Trevor May (The Twins have said they want him as a starter this season but he doesn't fit)
Middle Relief 1: Casey Fien
Middle Relief 2: open (But we just signed veteran Fernando Abad who will probably get first chance at this because he is left-handed and has 250 major league appearances.)
Long Man: Ricky Nolasco (He's under contract, the Twins can't trade him, and there's no way they want him in the rotation unless someone gets injured)
Projected Rotation?
Tyler Duffy, Kyle Gibson, Phil Hughes, Tommy Milone, and Ervin Santana
There's not much room for anyone else, though the Twins could add one more guy to the bullpen. They went with 11 pitchers most of the year last season. So I expect them to do that again this year. Molitor likes to have that extra guy as a bench player/pinch-hitter/extra catcher/extra infielder/extra outfielder kind of guy.
Even if this is the current plan, injuries occur all the time, especially to pitchers. So nothing is less solid than a pitching roster.
Wolves Lose BUT...
...Karl-Anthony Towns had 25 points and 16 rebounds.
In the last 30 years, the only other player to do that while being so young, was LeBron.
That's kind of cool. The Wolves still got beat pretty badly though. Towns and Wiggens combined for 51 points and we still got killed.
sigh
In the last 30 years, the only other player to do that while being so young, was LeBron.
That's kind of cool. The Wolves still got beat pretty badly though. Towns and Wiggens combined for 51 points and we still got killed.
sigh
Odell
IF Beckham's suspension is upheld after appeal, he will sit out the Vikings game this week. That should give the Vikings the edge against the Giants in Sunday night's game. And IF the Cardinals beat the Packers this weekend, it sets up an interesting season finale.
Who would have thunk it?
Football has been great this season. And the likely outcome of all of this is that the Pack and the Vikings will end up playing each other two games straight at the end. We just won't know which team will have the home field advantage in that last one.
Yet.
Go football!
Who would have thunk it?
Football has been great this season. And the likely outcome of all of this is that the Pack and the Vikings will end up playing each other two games straight at the end. We just won't know which team will have the home field advantage in that last one.
Yet.
Go football!
Monday, December 21, 2015
The Force Awakens Review
(I started this review yesterday. If you're interested you may wish to read that blog first.)
How difficult is it to relaunch one of the most successful movie franchises in cinema history? MOST hardcore Star Wars fans did not like the previous 3 prequel movies. They made a lot of money. They broke box office records. BUT they did not satisfy the fans' thirst for really good stories.
What about THIS latest movie?
They did it.
These new heroes are a nice blend of iconic heroes. They have purpose. They have character flaws. And in the end, they do what they have to do simply because it is the RIGHT thing to do. The old favorites are there as well, but they are not the focus of this movie. They are there as the strong supporting cast meant to mentor our young heroes as they find THEIR destiny.
Yes, there were too many action scenes. Yes, they could have explained the new rebel plans in greater detail. Yes, they could have had greater insights into character motivations, but I figure they are going to do all of that in the next couple of movies so I'll be patient. None of these movies is ever meant to stand on it's own. It's all part of a greater, expanded story.
In reference to yesterday, it's all a part of what makes TV shows so great. Playing off what happened in the past is what makes this movie so surprisingly good. And it also leaves me with a sense of hope for future episodes in the Star Wars saga. I hear Disney is planning on doing some stand-a-lone movies to supplement this trilogy and future trilogies.
That's the way to make this all work. Make them good. Make them work together. Give us these stories more often.
It'll gives us all "A New Hope" for what's coming next.
I can't wait.
And for my twin brother who has never seen any of these movies, they are way better than Shane or Dragnet. Just watch them all in order before you jump to the new one. It's never too late to catch up...
How difficult is it to relaunch one of the most successful movie franchises in cinema history? MOST hardcore Star Wars fans did not like the previous 3 prequel movies. They made a lot of money. They broke box office records. BUT they did not satisfy the fans' thirst for really good stories.
What about THIS latest movie?
They did it.
These new heroes are a nice blend of iconic heroes. They have purpose. They have character flaws. And in the end, they do what they have to do simply because it is the RIGHT thing to do. The old favorites are there as well, but they are not the focus of this movie. They are there as the strong supporting cast meant to mentor our young heroes as they find THEIR destiny.
Yes, there were too many action scenes. Yes, they could have explained the new rebel plans in greater detail. Yes, they could have had greater insights into character motivations, but I figure they are going to do all of that in the next couple of movies so I'll be patient. None of these movies is ever meant to stand on it's own. It's all part of a greater, expanded story.
In reference to yesterday, it's all a part of what makes TV shows so great. Playing off what happened in the past is what makes this movie so surprisingly good. And it also leaves me with a sense of hope for future episodes in the Star Wars saga. I hear Disney is planning on doing some stand-a-lone movies to supplement this trilogy and future trilogies.
That's the way to make this all work. Make them good. Make them work together. Give us these stories more often.
It'll gives us all "A New Hope" for what's coming next.
I can't wait.
And for my twin brother who has never seen any of these movies, they are way better than Shane or Dragnet. Just watch them all in order before you jump to the new one. It's never too late to catch up...
Sweet!
Remember how I said that the Vikings looked great against Arizona while losing last week? The primary reason for that success was the game plan that unleashed Teddy's short range passing game.
Yesterday, the Vikings expanded on that and, as a result, Bridgewater's performance and execution was simply dazzling. He threw for 4 TDs while running one in as well.
The banged up defense, still without three key starters, looked much better this week as well.
The problem? We did not clinch a play-off berth yesterday. We still have to beat the Giants next week at home knowing full well that the Giants almost beat undefeated Carolina yesterday.
This season keeps us all watching. I guess that's all anyone can ask.
Go Vikings!
Yesterday, the Vikings expanded on that and, as a result, Bridgewater's performance and execution was simply dazzling. He threw for 4 TDs while running one in as well.
The banged up defense, still without three key starters, looked much better this week as well.
The problem? We did not clinch a play-off berth yesterday. We still have to beat the Giants next week at home knowing full well that the Giants almost beat undefeated Carolina yesterday.
This season keeps us all watching. I guess that's all anyone can ask.
Go Vikings!
Sunday, December 20, 2015
Star Wars: The Force Awakens
My brother out in California hasn't seen this movie yet, so out of courtesy to him I'm not going to review it today. But I'm going to give you a pre-review.
Though my wife and I like watching a lot of movies, we aren't big movie fans. Why? Because TV shows are better than movies. I'd rather watch 100 episodes of a well-written, favorite TV show than see any major Hollywood blockbuster. Good TV shows are better than great movies just because you have a chance to get acquainted with characters over time. And supporting casts and storylines have so much more depth to play with.
Case in point: I've liked all the Marvel Universe movies so far (except the Hulk, I don't think it's possible to to a good stand-alone Hulk movie). The first Iron Man and Avengers movies were great, and the Thor and Captain America movies were right up there, too, BUT my favorite Marvel Universe story right now is the ABC television show, Marvel: Agents of Shield. The first season was kind of hokey. The second season got much better when it took itself more seriously. And the third season, after a rough start, has became the best thing the Marvel universe has produced. Why? Because Agent/Director Coulson has become the best written character on television, while the actor who portrays him has made that character the most believable/intriguing character on television.
Good writing, over time, gives you a more well-rounded glimpse into the universe portrayed. Supporting characters become more believable as a result. In a world where extraordinary individuals are the norm, you need the stability of regular people realizing it. The foundation of a show like this is that a normal person can figure out how to live in a world with Super Heroes and Super Villains and make it seem normal. Coulson, and by default, the supporting cast, has done that.
When might movies establish that kind of connection? When they are given well written sequels that play off the history of the established mythos. Did The Force Awakens manage to do that?
I'll tell you tomorrow.
Though my wife and I like watching a lot of movies, we aren't big movie fans. Why? Because TV shows are better than movies. I'd rather watch 100 episodes of a well-written, favorite TV show than see any major Hollywood blockbuster. Good TV shows are better than great movies just because you have a chance to get acquainted with characters over time. And supporting casts and storylines have so much more depth to play with.
Case in point: I've liked all the Marvel Universe movies so far (except the Hulk, I don't think it's possible to to a good stand-alone Hulk movie). The first Iron Man and Avengers movies were great, and the Thor and Captain America movies were right up there, too, BUT my favorite Marvel Universe story right now is the ABC television show, Marvel: Agents of Shield. The first season was kind of hokey. The second season got much better when it took itself more seriously. And the third season, after a rough start, has became the best thing the Marvel universe has produced. Why? Because Agent/Director Coulson has become the best written character on television, while the actor who portrays him has made that character the most believable/intriguing character on television.
Good writing, over time, gives you a more well-rounded glimpse into the universe portrayed. Supporting characters become more believable as a result. In a world where extraordinary individuals are the norm, you need the stability of regular people realizing it. The foundation of a show like this is that a normal person can figure out how to live in a world with Super Heroes and Super Villains and make it seem normal. Coulson, and by default, the supporting cast, has done that.
When might movies establish that kind of connection? When they are given well written sequels that play off the history of the established mythos. Did The Force Awakens manage to do that?
I'll tell you tomorrow.
The Vikings
It seems so simple, if the Vikings can beat either the Bears or the Giants in the next two weeks, they'll probably make the play-offs. Green Bay could be in the play-offs before they even play this afternoon, if the right couple teams lose early games.
The problem for the Vikings? Green Bay is most likely going to win the division and Seattle, with the way they've been playing as of late, is probably going to be the top wild card team. BOTH have tie-breaker status over the Vikings due to their wins over Minnesota.
That means all the Vikings are playing for, at this point, is to simply to make the last play-off spot. When just one win in three games will accomplish that, they probably aren't going to win much more than that. The incentive for winning has been removed.
And when the incentive isn't there, most teams don't play very well. The Vikings have gotten smoked too often in recent weeks. That doesn't give them or their fans much hope, especially with the recent rash of injuries.
With three games left the Vikings, at best, could possibly win two of them. More likely? A single win. Chicago and the Giants have been playing miserably this season, too, but the Giants still have a chance at the playoffs and will be playing every week for their playoff life.
That means that Vikings best chance of making the play-offs comes down to their beating the Bears TODAY. If they don't, they probably won't win any more games this season.
Either way, the Vikes will either be a 9-7 team that barely makes the play-offs or an 8-8 team that barely misses them. Teams like that don't win in the play-offs.
IF they win the next two weeks, all of that will change.
How many more games do you think the Vikings will win?
The problem for the Vikings? Green Bay is most likely going to win the division and Seattle, with the way they've been playing as of late, is probably going to be the top wild card team. BOTH have tie-breaker status over the Vikings due to their wins over Minnesota.
That means all the Vikings are playing for, at this point, is to simply to make the last play-off spot. When just one win in three games will accomplish that, they probably aren't going to win much more than that. The incentive for winning has been removed.
And when the incentive isn't there, most teams don't play very well. The Vikings have gotten smoked too often in recent weeks. That doesn't give them or their fans much hope, especially with the recent rash of injuries.
With three games left the Vikings, at best, could possibly win two of them. More likely? A single win. Chicago and the Giants have been playing miserably this season, too, but the Giants still have a chance at the playoffs and will be playing every week for their playoff life.
That means that Vikings best chance of making the play-offs comes down to their beating the Bears TODAY. If they don't, they probably won't win any more games this season.
Either way, the Vikes will either be a 9-7 team that barely makes the play-offs or an 8-8 team that barely misses them. Teams like that don't win in the play-offs.
IF they win the next two weeks, all of that will change.
How many more games do you think the Vikings will win?
Saturday, December 19, 2015
Wolves Win
They beat a team that is 10-16. They are now 10-16, too.
Star Wars today. Pumped. Hope the theater is not sold out.
Star Wars today. Pumped. Hope the theater is not sold out.
Friday, December 18, 2015
Wild Win Again
Once more I watched some of the game, and once more I didn't see any goals even though the Wild won 5-2. I did see a lot of play in the Rangers end, including a Wild player whiffing on an open net chance, but my interest waned and I decided to read instead.
Go Wild!
Other stuff:
I don't go to movies in theaters very often any more. My wife and I are making an exception for the latest Star Wars movie tomorrow. We've always been Star Wars fans and the reviews have been outstanding. Seeing an event movie like this the first weekend with other pumped up fans is going to be pretty cool. It's already breaking box office records internationally and could possibly become the biggest movie of all-time (beating out Avatar) by the time it's run is over.
We were surprised that there's a showing in New Ulm on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. They NEVER have showings of any movies before noon. I mean NEVER. They're anticipating a huge weekend. I told myself that I'm going to enjoy it instead of being a critic. We'll see if it delights or disappoints. We never buy tickets ahead of time either, so we hope it's not sold out. Even event movies in New Ulm rarely produce auditoriums more than half full. IF we don't get in, this movie is going to be bigger than anyone thought. We'll get there early and hope for the best.
The Twins are putting up more netting at Target Field. They're extending it past the dugouts now for fan safety. Though hardcore fans will be disappointed at not being able to get more foul balls, baseball officials are more concerned about fan safety after the number of bat and balls in the stands incidents the last few years. They realize most are lost on their phones and not paying attention. Which in a nutshell is our society today.
Go Wild!
Other stuff:
I don't go to movies in theaters very often any more. My wife and I are making an exception for the latest Star Wars movie tomorrow. We've always been Star Wars fans and the reviews have been outstanding. Seeing an event movie like this the first weekend with other pumped up fans is going to be pretty cool. It's already breaking box office records internationally and could possibly become the biggest movie of all-time (beating out Avatar) by the time it's run is over.
We were surprised that there's a showing in New Ulm on Saturday morning at 9 a.m. They NEVER have showings of any movies before noon. I mean NEVER. They're anticipating a huge weekend. I told myself that I'm going to enjoy it instead of being a critic. We'll see if it delights or disappoints. We never buy tickets ahead of time either, so we hope it's not sold out. Even event movies in New Ulm rarely produce auditoriums more than half full. IF we don't get in, this movie is going to be bigger than anyone thought. We'll get there early and hope for the best.
The Twins are putting up more netting at Target Field. They're extending it past the dugouts now for fan safety. Though hardcore fans will be disappointed at not being able to get more foul balls, baseball officials are more concerned about fan safety after the number of bat and balls in the stands incidents the last few years. They realize most are lost on their phones and not paying attention. Which in a nutshell is our society today.
Thursday, December 17, 2015
Warriors, Spurs, Wolves
Golden State had Clay Thompson back last night. His ankle must be feeling better as he had 43 points. Their current winning streak is ONE. The Spurs are 22-5 on the season having won their 23rd straight home game. These are the two best teams the NBA has to offer.
The Wolves? Rubio had a good night, almost producing a rare quadruple-double. But he didn't. And the Wolves lost again, too. They played better the second half, but a 20 point half time deficit was too much to overcome. They are now 9-16 on the season.
sigh
At least they aren't the 76ers.
The Wolves? Rubio had a good night, almost producing a rare quadruple-double. But he didn't. And the Wolves lost again, too. They played better the second half, but a 20 point half time deficit was too much to overcome. They are now 9-16 on the season.
sigh
At least they aren't the 76ers.
Wednesday, December 16, 2015
Wolves and Wild
I know the Wolves are young, but I think I'm going to wait until they're a lot older before I watch another one of their games. Denver is not a very good team either, but they didn't have any problem last night beating the Wolves.
One bright spot? Because the Wolves were losing badly most of the night, and because all major network shows are basically in rerun, I decided to watch some Wild hockey last night. I watched most of the third period, and, as usual, didn't see one goal. They had 6 before I started watching. So there's that. Hockey is just hard to watch. Lots of movement. Little actual achievement. And if a goal is scored, you're usually out in the kitchen making a snack when it happens. You don't build toward scores in hockey. They just happen. But usually it's just a lot of movement without anything happening.
One bright spot? Because the Wolves were losing badly most of the night, and because all major network shows are basically in rerun, I decided to watch some Wild hockey last night. I watched most of the third period, and, as usual, didn't see one goal. They had 6 before I started watching. So there's that. Hockey is just hard to watch. Lots of movement. Little actual achievement. And if a goal is scored, you're usually out in the kitchen making a snack when it happens. You don't build toward scores in hockey. They just happen. But usually it's just a lot of movement without anything happening.
Tuesday, December 15, 2015
Mediocrity
Last week I published the standings of a really bad NFL division. This week I'm doubling down on that. Please note: TWO of these teams WILL make the playoffs and each will host one playoff game.
Monday, December 14, 2015
My Patriots and My Packers Back On Track
And Cam with Carolina are still undefeated.
Everything is right with the world once more.
No, I take that back. My Broncos lost to Oakland.That was disappointing.
Everything is right with the world once more.
No, I take that back. My Broncos lost to Oakland.That was disappointing.
Sunday, December 13, 2015
Saturday, December 12, 2015
Michael Cuddyer Retiring
At 36, Michael Cuddyer is calling it a career. Last year he saw limited time playing for the Mets and ended up with career lows in all of his stats. He had one year remaining on his contract but it's thought the Mets may have bought out that last year as incentive to Michael.
He had a good 15 years.
In Twins news: Miguel Sano has left his winter league team to start a conditioning program to get him ready for the outfield. He's currently 268. The Twins want him at 260 or less come spring.
Maybe they really are going to do this!
He had a good 15 years.
In Twins news: Miguel Sano has left his winter league team to start a conditioning program to get him ready for the outfield. He's currently 268. The Twins want him at 260 or less come spring.
Maybe they really are going to do this!
TWO Overtimes Result: 24-0
Golden State is not as good without Klay Thompson and Harrison Barnes who were both out with injuries. But with Draymond Green stepping up, Stephen Curry and the Warriors managed to pull off their 24th straight win of the season. Even if it did take them two overtime periods to do it.
I was actually watching another NBA game last night just so I could see the extra coverage they had of the Golden State/Boston game. This streak is way cool.
And so are the Warriors.
I was actually watching another NBA game last night just so I could see the extra coverage they had of the Golden State/Boston game. This streak is way cool.
And so are the Warriors.
Friday, December 11, 2015
Vikes Lose
Those three fumbles absolutely killed us.
Bright side? Our banged up defense, despite giving up a couple of huge plays, held strong and tough. And Norv Turner figured out a way for Teddy to move the team all night. We LOST, but we lost to a very good team, and for the most part we looked good doing it.
Where everyone else is praising the Cardinals great team this morning, I'm excited about how good the Vikings looked MOST of the night. A three point loss, on the road, against one of the best teams in the league, is nothing to hang our heads in shame over.
The Geen Bay and Carolina games were embarrassing. This game was not. IF this same Vikes team played the Cardinals again next week, I would fully expect the Vikings to win. I want to see THAT team show up the next three weeks.
Just no fumbles.
Thursday, December 10, 2015
Wolves
If not for the Sixers, the Lakers would be considered the absolute worst team in basketball. The Sixers ONLY win of the season came against the Lakers. The Wolves beat the Lakers by ONE point last night in overtime.
It's going to be another long season in Minnesota.
It's going to be another long season in Minnesota.
Wednesday, December 9, 2015
Tuesday, December 8, 2015
Wolves Lose Again
For anyone following the Wolves for the better part of three decades, this should come as no surprise. Their current losing streak is four straight.
Cowboys Win
At 4-8, the Cowboys are now just ONE game out with 4 games to play.
THIS is what a bad division looks like:
THIS is what a bad division looks like:
Monday, December 7, 2015
Warriors 22-0
They beat Brooklyn by 16 last night. Only 60 games to go.
The most amazing part? Brooklyn fans were cheering for the Warriors last night. Not in a mocking sort of way, but because they love this team more than their own. THAT'S what a good basketball team looks like.
The most amazing part? Brooklyn fans were cheering for the Warriors last night. Not in a mocking sort of way, but because they love this team more than their own. THAT'S what a good basketball team looks like.
How 'Bout Them Vikes?
I missed the entire game yesterday, but I still got to enjoy the later games. Denver looks great with Brock at the helm. And Carolina, with their remaining schedule, looks to go undefeated.
I think more fans are starting to see the very real possibility of an 8-8 (perhaps 9-7) season for Minnesota. That ESPN experts were picking the Vikings this weekend was laughable. The Cardinals are up next on Thursday night. I'm probably going to avoid that one as well.
Vikings fans shouldn't feel too bad. The Patriots lost to the lowly Eagles yesterday, too.
I think more fans are starting to see the very real possibility of an 8-8 (perhaps 9-7) season for Minnesota. That ESPN experts were picking the Vikings this weekend was laughable. The Cardinals are up next on Thursday night. I'm probably going to avoid that one as well.
Vikings fans shouldn't feel too bad. The Patriots lost to the lowly Eagles yesterday, too.
Sunday, December 6, 2015
UNC
The football games went pretty much as predicted yesterday. Number 5 Michigan State beat number 4 Iowa in what was a close game the whole way.
The biggest moment? UNC was called offside on a successful onside kick. The play wasn't reviewable. The only thing is that replay showed they weren't. UNC was denied one last 50 yard drive to tie because the refs blew the call.
That's been happening a lot lately. At all levels. That the play wasn't reviewable is the biggest crime of all.
The biggest moment? UNC was called offside on a successful onside kick. The play wasn't reviewable. The only thing is that replay showed they weren't. UNC was denied one last 50 yard drive to tie because the refs blew the call.
That's been happening a lot lately. At all levels. That the play wasn't reviewable is the biggest crime of all.
Saturday, December 5, 2015
Spoiler
I told myself I wasn't going to watch the Star Wars trailers so that I wouldn't spoil the upcoming movie. I should have followed that. I now have wrecked one of the coolest movies in history by watching all the trailers (spoilers) in a row several times yesterday.
I know the basic plot and I figured out THE HUGE SURPRISE TWIST. IF you don't want to know it stop reading HERE.
I noticed fans have been complaining that they aren't showing Mark Hamill in any of the trailers. Oh, aren't they? Luke, as it turns out, is indeed his FATHER'S son. I warned you not to read this.
I know the basic plot and I figured out THE HUGE SURPRISE TWIST. IF you don't want to know it stop reading HERE.
I noticed fans have been complaining that they aren't showing Mark Hamill in any of the trailers. Oh, aren't they? Luke, as it turns out, is indeed his FATHER'S son. I warned you not to read this.
Clemson and Alabama
Number one and number two both play conference championship games today. Both might lose. Both are afternoon games. I plan on watching both even if I have to have the remote close at hand. Nothing would please me more than both going down. THAT is the thrill of college football.
Go Florida! Go UNC! Mess up the rankings!
Go Florida! Go UNC! Mess up the rankings!
David Price and Zach Greinke
Wow. Just when you think baseball has learned its lesson about spending too much money on aging free agents, this week alone Boston and Arizona demonstrated that they think a 30-year old David Price and a 32-year old Zach Grienke are worth close to a half-BILLION between them.
And what's even more surprising is that neither deal is longer than seven years. Has any pitcher who ever signed this type of deal EVER performed well for the length of their contract? David Price was having arm problems late last season with Toronto. Both will be in their late 30's when their contracts expire.
I'm just glad the Twins have seen the error of their ways in deals like this. One Joe Mauer deal is enough to last me a life-time.
At least I HOPE they've learned their lesson.
And what's even more surprising is that neither deal is longer than seven years. Has any pitcher who ever signed this type of deal EVER performed well for the length of their contract? David Price was having arm problems late last season with Toronto. Both will be in their late 30's when their contracts expire.
I'm just glad the Twins have seen the error of their ways in deals like this. One Joe Mauer deal is enough to last me a life-time.
At least I HOPE they've learned their lesson.
Friday, December 4, 2015
My Packers Win
An incredibly iffy facemask penalty at the end of regulation (though you can easily see WHY the refs called it) gave the Packers one last chance to win.
One untimed, 70-yards in the air, Hail Mary pass later...
...and the Packers pulled off one their most dramatic comeback wins of all-time.
Detroit has nobody to blame but themselves. They had a 17-0 lead early and simply squandered it.
I admit this hurts my Vikings chances to take the division, but with Minnesota's upcoming schedule the next two weeks (Seattle and Arizona), and then the Bears, the Giants, and the Packers to end the season, they really don't have much hope of winning the division title anyway.
I shouldn't say it that way. The Vikings must WIN 4 of those remaining 5 games to show they deserve to be the division winner. What Green Bay does the rest of the way should be irrelevant to the Vikings success IF they are really a good team.
Most don't see them winning more than two of those remaining five games. And pessimists (realists?) like myself see even less.
Rodgers and the Packers showed last night that they aren't ready to surrender their title of best team in the division just yet. It's up to the Vikings to answer the call this weekend at home against Seattle. IF the Vikings win that game, they'll have to beat the Cardinals at Arizona next Thursday night as well.
I'm not optimistic. Seattle and Arizona, right now, are two of the hottest teams in the conference. Both are on major rolls.
If the Vikings had beaten Green Bay two weeks ago, we wouldn't even be having this discussion. Winning proves how good you are. Green Bay showed who they are two weeks ago and again last night.
It's up the the Vikings to prove who they are the next two weeks and beyond.
Either way, I'm happy with what Minnesota accomplished this year. Much like my Twins, they were and are a pleasant surprise.
I do want more, but like I said I'm a realist.
I sure hope they prove me wrong.
One untimed, 70-yards in the air, Hail Mary pass later...
...and the Packers pulled off one their most dramatic comeback wins of all-time.
Detroit has nobody to blame but themselves. They had a 17-0 lead early and simply squandered it.
I admit this hurts my Vikings chances to take the division, but with Minnesota's upcoming schedule the next two weeks (Seattle and Arizona), and then the Bears, the Giants, and the Packers to end the season, they really don't have much hope of winning the division title anyway.
I shouldn't say it that way. The Vikings must WIN 4 of those remaining 5 games to show they deserve to be the division winner. What Green Bay does the rest of the way should be irrelevant to the Vikings success IF they are really a good team.
Most don't see them winning more than two of those remaining five games. And pessimists (realists?) like myself see even less.
Rodgers and the Packers showed last night that they aren't ready to surrender their title of best team in the division just yet. It's up to the Vikings to answer the call this weekend at home against Seattle. IF the Vikings win that game, they'll have to beat the Cardinals at Arizona next Thursday night as well.
I'm not optimistic. Seattle and Arizona, right now, are two of the hottest teams in the conference. Both are on major rolls.
If the Vikings had beaten Green Bay two weeks ago, we wouldn't even be having this discussion. Winning proves how good you are. Green Bay showed who they are two weeks ago and again last night.
It's up the the Vikings to prove who they are the next two weeks and beyond.
Either way, I'm happy with what Minnesota accomplished this year. Much like my Twins, they were and are a pleasant surprise.
I do want more, but like I said I'm a realist.
I sure hope they prove me wrong.
Thursday, December 3, 2015
Rio
When Rio captured the winning bid for next year's Olympics 5 years ago, one of the requirements that the International Olympic Committee made of them is that they HAD to clean up the area's municipal water/sewage treatment problem.
With just a few months to go, they haven't done a thing.
How big a deal is this? I encourage you to find a good article on the subject and find out for yourself, but basically the way Rio takes care of all their waste is to flush it down the drain and let it flow freely to rivers which carry it to their bays. As some reporters are saying, several Olympic events will be held in sewage water.
Germany's Erik Heil, while doing warm-up sailing runs in the very same bays he's going to compete in for next summers event, contacted MRSA, a flesh-eating bacteria that nearly killed him. Tests show that nearly ALL the water to be used for these events is going to have bacteria and viruses in them 10, 000 to several million times more than America or European countries allow in their recreational water.
The worst part? Olympic officials are ignoring the problem while merely redefining their parameters. Much like FIFA (the governing body of world soccer) whose corruption is just now being sorted out now, Olympic officials are starting to be called out on this. Corruption is afoot once more.
This water is dangerous and the health and lives of athletes will be at stake.
Rio broke their promise that they'd address this. I say take the Olympics away from them. They got the rights based on promises they did not and will not keep. We'll live without one more Olympic Games. And officials will be forced to be less corrupt in the future.
I feel sorry for the athletes that might miss this. We'll feel a lot worse if some of them die because of the dangerous mess.
With just a few months to go, they haven't done a thing.
How big a deal is this? I encourage you to find a good article on the subject and find out for yourself, but basically the way Rio takes care of all their waste is to flush it down the drain and let it flow freely to rivers which carry it to their bays. As some reporters are saying, several Olympic events will be held in sewage water.
Germany's Erik Heil, while doing warm-up sailing runs in the very same bays he's going to compete in for next summers event, contacted MRSA, a flesh-eating bacteria that nearly killed him. Tests show that nearly ALL the water to be used for these events is going to have bacteria and viruses in them 10, 000 to several million times more than America or European countries allow in their recreational water.
The worst part? Olympic officials are ignoring the problem while merely redefining their parameters. Much like FIFA (the governing body of world soccer) whose corruption is just now being sorted out now, Olympic officials are starting to be called out on this. Corruption is afoot once more.
This water is dangerous and the health and lives of athletes will be at stake.
Rio broke their promise that they'd address this. I say take the Olympics away from them. They got the rights based on promises they did not and will not keep. We'll live without one more Olympic Games. And officials will be forced to be less corrupt in the future.
I feel sorry for the athletes that might miss this. We'll feel a lot worse if some of them die because of the dangerous mess.
Twenty Straight
Golden State ran away with another win last night. 20-0 is putting them in pretty elite territory. Stephen Curry scored 28 points in THE THIRD QUARTER. He had 40 for the night and sat out the entire fourth quarter because of their huge lead. Cooler? The Charlotte Hornets were honoring their all-time leading scorer and broadcaster last night, Dell Curry. Yes, that's Stephen's dad.
Go Warriors!
Go Warriors!
Press Conference
The Twins (Terry Ryan) repeated at Byung Ho Park's press conference yesterday that Trevor Plouffe IS the Twins third baseman this year and that Miguel Sano WILL be in the outfield. Color me skeptical. If Sano can't play the position where will they put him?
At the same time, can you imagine if Sano, Park, and Plouffe all have career years at the plate?
The Twins signed their second catcher of the week yesterday picking up John Hicks from Seattle. His caught stealing rate is impressive. He can't hit but it looks like he's the Twins primary back-up plan for Suzuki coming out of spring training. Juan Centeno got a minor league deal. He can't hit either, but the Twins signed him for his defensive skills.
At the same time, can you imagine if Sano, Park, and Plouffe all have career years at the plate?
The Twins signed their second catcher of the week yesterday picking up John Hicks from Seattle. His caught stealing rate is impressive. He can't hit but it looks like he's the Twins primary back-up plan for Suzuki coming out of spring training. Juan Centeno got a minor league deal. He can't hit either, but the Twins signed him for his defensive skills.
Wednesday, December 2, 2015
The Park Signing
I was surprised that we signed him for only 3 million a year. The 12 million dollar guaranteed deal was actually the same amount we paid his old club just to have the rights to sign him. In effect, we get him for four seasons for the same cost as Joe Mauer's cost this season.
IF, and this is a big if, he's any good at all, we got a great deal. If he's not, he didn't really cost us that much as his strikeouts are as legendary as his home runs in Korea.
I just hope he doesn't cost us Trevor Plouffe, too. The Twins have too many third and first basemen/DHs now. I'm hoping Sano really does transition to outfield, but at his size, I don't see it happening.
Getting rid of an established 29-year-old player who is one of your best, to make room for a 29-year-old rookie may not be the best strategy for the organization.
Sano is playing third base in winter ball this offseason. He hasn't went any where near the outfield.
IF, and this is a big if, he's any good at all, we got a great deal. If he's not, he didn't really cost us that much as his strikeouts are as legendary as his home runs in Korea.
I just hope he doesn't cost us Trevor Plouffe, too. The Twins have too many third and first basemen/DHs now. I'm hoping Sano really does transition to outfield, but at his size, I don't see it happening.
Getting rid of an established 29-year-old player who is one of your best, to make room for a 29-year-old rookie may not be the best strategy for the organization.
Sano is playing third base in winter ball this offseason. He hasn't went any where near the outfield.
Tuesday, December 1, 2015
Monday Night Football Is Not What It Used To Be
The 3-7 Ravens went against he 2-9 Browns last night. It's a shame that someone had to win. At least the Ravens made it cool with a blocked field goal attempt ran back for a touchdown as time expired. If you're going to 4-7, that's the way to do it.
In other sports news: Golden State is now 19-0 to start their season. They had to come back, late, to do it. That's something. Projected over a whole season at this pace? 82-0.
Okay, maybe we can't start projecting like that, but the season is nearly 1/4 over.
Twins News: Remember Joe Benson? He was the Twins next outfielder rookie of choice in 2011. The Twins eventually left him go. He's since been dropped by a few other teams as well AND has been signed by the Twins again to a minor league contract. He's 28. Rochester needed another outfielder since all the good ones are now up with the Twins.
In other sports news: Golden State is now 19-0 to start their season. They had to come back, late, to do it. That's something. Projected over a whole season at this pace? 82-0.
Okay, maybe we can't start projecting like that, but the season is nearly 1/4 over.
Twins News: Remember Joe Benson? He was the Twins next outfielder rookie of choice in 2011. The Twins eventually left him go. He's since been dropped by a few other teams as well AND has been signed by the Twins again to a minor league contract. He's 28. Rochester needed another outfielder since all the good ones are now up with the Twins.
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