Golden State needed an overtime last night to beat the Jazz, but a win is a win.
The Wolves lost by 20. Any chance that Minnesota could get Luke Walton to be their coach next season? He did a great job with Golden State this season while Steve Kerr was out. Everybody says how talented these Wolves are, maybe it's the right opportunity for both...
Thursday, March 31, 2016
Wednesday, March 30, 2016
Twins
The Twins pitching the last week or so in spring training has been fantastic. Sano hit another home run yesterday and his on-base percentage is near .500 for the spring.
The problem? I now have the highest of hopes for the Twins this year. I don't like going into the season this optimistic. It's easier going into the season jaded and then being surprised later. Kind of like the Vikings this past year. When you have expectations, when you have hope, you set yourself up for disappointment.
If Nolasco ever figures out what made him good in the first place, I think the Twins can challenge just about anyone this year. If Sano isn't as horrible as spring training in the outfield, the Twins will be a force.
You see what I mean? That kind of thinking is dangerous. I'm setting us all up for failure and disappointment.
Want something worse? There are major analysts throughout the sports media scene who are telling us it's Byron Buxton, not Sano, who will be the next Bryce Harper or Mike Trout. They all agree that Sano should hit lots and lots of home runs, but it's Buxton who is the great one.
I don't need that kind of pressure.
The problem? I now have the highest of hopes for the Twins this year. I don't like going into the season this optimistic. It's easier going into the season jaded and then being surprised later. Kind of like the Vikings this past year. When you have expectations, when you have hope, you set yourself up for disappointment.
If Nolasco ever figures out what made him good in the first place, I think the Twins can challenge just about anyone this year. If Sano isn't as horrible as spring training in the outfield, the Twins will be a force.
You see what I mean? That kind of thinking is dangerous. I'm setting us all up for failure and disappointment.
Want something worse? There are major analysts throughout the sports media scene who are telling us it's Byron Buxton, not Sano, who will be the next Bryce Harper or Mike Trout. They all agree that Sano should hit lots and lots of home runs, but it's Buxton who is the great one.
I don't need that kind of pressure.
Tuesday, March 29, 2016
Twins
The Twins decided to keep Oswaldo Arcia and Danny Santana on their final major league roster. They weren't prepared to release either since both were out of options. Carlos Quentin, the former star of the White Sox was granted his release because he did not wish to go to the minors.
Tyler Duffy and Ricky Nolasco are still "battling" (poorly) for that last starting job. Both had awful springs, BUT Nolasco is still owed $25 million over the next two seasons. The Twins would like to use him in the bullpen against he and his agent's wishes. With Duffy stumbling he still might get that fifth spot.
Duffy was asked to work on his change-up this spring, and even though he was great without it last year, he tried and looked just awful doing it. It was assumed Duffy was a lock for a starting job when spring began, but the pitching coach messed him up terribly. Kind of what happened to Phil Hughes last spring.
sigh
Tyler Duffy and Ricky Nolasco are still "battling" (poorly) for that last starting job. Both had awful springs, BUT Nolasco is still owed $25 million over the next two seasons. The Twins would like to use him in the bullpen against he and his agent's wishes. With Duffy stumbling he still might get that fifth spot.
Duffy was asked to work on his change-up this spring, and even though he was great without it last year, he tried and looked just awful doing it. It was assumed Duffy was a lock for a starting job when spring began, but the pitching coach messed him up terribly. Kind of what happened to Phil Hughes last spring.
sigh
Monday, March 28, 2016
A Syracuse-Shaped Monkey Wrench
A number 1, two number 2s and a number 10.
That's the NCAA men's final four. Obviously, I'm rooting for the biggest underdog. So will most of the country, but my point is still valid.
Imagine an NFL playoff where all the wild card teams and division winners earn playoff spots by playing winning football throughout the entire year, and THEN the Detroit Lions are also given a slot and then THEY get hot and win a couple games in a row and find themselves in the NFC Championship game with a chance to go on to and win the Superbowl. Wouldn't you feel that the teams that got beat by Detroit got ripped off? It's not good enough to play great in the playoffs, you had to EARN your spot to get there.
The playoffs are a reward for the best teams. Even having an opportunity to play for the title when you had an average regular season is wrong. That's what March Madness has become, a potential reward for teams who get hot at the end, without having the season to back it up.
On the other hand, the UConn women's basketball team won their elite 8 NCAA tourney game last night by a score of 98-38. UConn is so much better than any other team in women's college basketball that no one can even come close to beating them. They always have their pick of the best girls in high school every year so no one else has a chance. When you're that good you cease to be interesting. You only watch their games hoping they get beat. And after they get a big lead, you stop watching.
I hope UConn gets beat. That won't stop the best girls in the country from going there, though. You're virtually assured of 4 years of championship final games if they accept you.
I prefer the men's current tourney to this situation.
That's the NCAA men's final four. Obviously, I'm rooting for the biggest underdog. So will most of the country, but my point is still valid.
Imagine an NFL playoff where all the wild card teams and division winners earn playoff spots by playing winning football throughout the entire year, and THEN the Detroit Lions are also given a slot and then THEY get hot and win a couple games in a row and find themselves in the NFC Championship game with a chance to go on to and win the Superbowl. Wouldn't you feel that the teams that got beat by Detroit got ripped off? It's not good enough to play great in the playoffs, you had to EARN your spot to get there.
The playoffs are a reward for the best teams. Even having an opportunity to play for the title when you had an average regular season is wrong. That's what March Madness has become, a potential reward for teams who get hot at the end, without having the season to back it up.
On the other hand, the UConn women's basketball team won their elite 8 NCAA tourney game last night by a score of 98-38. UConn is so much better than any other team in women's college basketball that no one can even come close to beating them. They always have their pick of the best girls in high school every year so no one else has a chance. When you're that good you cease to be interesting. You only watch their games hoping they get beat. And after they get a big lead, you stop watching.
I hope UConn gets beat. That won't stop the best girls in the country from going there, though. You're virtually assured of 4 years of championship final games if they accept you.
I prefer the men's current tourney to this situation.
Sunday, March 27, 2016
Two Number Ones Fall
But it was to number two seeds, so no biggie. Oregon looked sluggish in the first game.
The second game got off to a really slow start, with the "stars" of both teams having a combined THREE points at half. At least it was close.
Me? I went to bed early last night. We had a big morning of shopping and an afternoon double feature of movies. Batman Vs. Superman was better than critics suggested, (though I understand why most disliked it) The first forty minutes made me dislike both characters immensely. Superman, too quick to jump to conclusions. Batman, too heavy handed, too out of control. These aren't spoilers. They needed a reason to fight. Plot holes? Yes. Way more than needed.
It took two DC universe tales, one by Frank Miller and one by Dan Jurgens, both of which took months to tell, and they combined them into one 2-hour film. It was too much. It was too gritty, too grim, too dark, with too many explosions. They gave us glimpses of future events and dream sequences when they should have concentrated on what was happening now. Come to think of it, maybe I didn't like it that much...
The second movie was the first Captain America film which was on FX. It was so much better than its DC counterpart. It was heroic in every sense of the word. DC should take a step back and figure out how to make their heroes more likable. Even Iron Man, a real jerk, can charm you with his humor. DC forgot the humor. And to fill the plot holes.
The second game got off to a really slow start, with the "stars" of both teams having a combined THREE points at half. At least it was close.
Me? I went to bed early last night. We had a big morning of shopping and an afternoon double feature of movies. Batman Vs. Superman was better than critics suggested, (though I understand why most disliked it) The first forty minutes made me dislike both characters immensely. Superman, too quick to jump to conclusions. Batman, too heavy handed, too out of control. These aren't spoilers. They needed a reason to fight. Plot holes? Yes. Way more than needed.
It took two DC universe tales, one by Frank Miller and one by Dan Jurgens, both of which took months to tell, and they combined them into one 2-hour film. It was too much. It was too gritty, too grim, too dark, with too many explosions. They gave us glimpses of future events and dream sequences when they should have concentrated on what was happening now. Come to think of it, maybe I didn't like it that much...
The second movie was the first Captain America film which was on FX. It was so much better than its DC counterpart. It was heroic in every sense of the word. DC should take a step back and figure out how to make their heroes more likable. Even Iron Man, a real jerk, can charm you with his humor. DC forgot the humor. And to fill the plot holes.
Saturday, March 26, 2016
Elite Eight
Syracuse (a 10 seed) and Notre Dame (a 6 seed) are still in it. All the number one seeds are still there, and two number 2s.
In other words 6 of the eight teams projected to be in the elite eight made the elite.
I guess they could have just started with the elite eight.
Too many average teams, too many meaningless games.
The only teams to benefit from the entire tournament? Syracuse and Notre Dame.
Now that they are there, I'm rooting for them. And at least their fans are happy. Upsets are always fun. And them winning is the only way to validate the over-sized tournament at all. I don't expect it, but weirder things have happened.
It's time to start watching.
About watching...
The CBS ratings for Thursday night's games averaged 6.3 million viewers for the entire evening. Their normal Thursday night ratings average close to 9 million viewers. So the last two Thursdays (the basketball tournament ones) are CBS worst two Thursday night ratings of the year, by a large margin. Last Thursday? About 4.5 million viewers for the evening.
In other words 6 of the eight teams projected to be in the elite eight made the elite.
I guess they could have just started with the elite eight.
Too many average teams, too many meaningless games.
The only teams to benefit from the entire tournament? Syracuse and Notre Dame.
Now that they are there, I'm rooting for them. And at least their fans are happy. Upsets are always fun. And them winning is the only way to validate the over-sized tournament at all. I don't expect it, but weirder things have happened.
It's time to start watching.
About watching...
The CBS ratings for Thursday night's games averaged 6.3 million viewers for the entire evening. Their normal Thursday night ratings average close to 9 million viewers. So the last two Thursdays (the basketball tournament ones) are CBS worst two Thursday night ratings of the year, by a large margin. Last Thursday? About 4.5 million viewers for the evening.
Friday, March 25, 2016
NCAA Tournament
With 10 teams left you can't help but notice that most are number one and two seeds.
That means only one team (Syracuse or Gonzaga) not in the top 28 will make the elite eight.
In other words, most of those extra teams added to the original 68 were just filler. Just like they are every year.
I'm rooting for both Indiana and Wisconsin to make the final four this weekend, just because they're from the Big Ten. The Gophers finished next to last in the conference this year with a 2-16 conference record, but Indiana had the best record and I'd like to see them or Wisconsin make a good showing in the tournament. Maryland, another Big Ten team, got eliminated last night from the coming elite eight by Kansas.
That means only one team (Syracuse or Gonzaga) not in the top 28 will make the elite eight.
In other words, most of those extra teams added to the original 68 were just filler. Just like they are every year.
I'm rooting for both Indiana and Wisconsin to make the final four this weekend, just because they're from the Big Ten. The Gophers finished next to last in the conference this year with a 2-16 conference record, but Indiana had the best record and I'd like to see them or Wisconsin make a good showing in the tournament. Maryland, another Big Ten team, got eliminated last night from the coming elite eight by Kansas.
Thursday, March 24, 2016
Golden State Wins
64-7 with 11 games to go. They need to win 9 of those 11 to break the all-time wins in a season record.
Go Warriors!
Go Warriors!
Wednesday, March 23, 2016
Baseball
I'm glad tensions between Cuba and the USA have lessened. It was kind of cool to see the highlights of the Ray's and the Cuban National team, but the problems that exist between the two nations still exist. If this first big step begins the repair efforts it's a good first step.
Fifty years of hatred and fear won't go away that quickly, and appeasing one of the Castro brothers won't solve anything either. The world has changed a lot in the last five decades, but those two Castros have been stuck in their ways. Perhaps this effort will loosen them up a bit.
Play ball!
The Twins won both sides of a split-squad double header yesterday. I watched part of the replay of the Oriole's game last night. It was my first game this year. I want real baseball to start. We're expecting snowfall amounts of up to 12 inches of today (the heavy wet stuff) and everybody there is running around in shorts and t-shirts.
The extreme contrast was worth noting.
Fifty years of hatred and fear won't go away that quickly, and appeasing one of the Castro brothers won't solve anything either. The world has changed a lot in the last five decades, but those two Castros have been stuck in their ways. Perhaps this effort will loosen them up a bit.
Play ball!
The Twins won both sides of a split-squad double header yesterday. I watched part of the replay of the Oriole's game last night. It was my first game this year. I want real baseball to start. We're expecting snowfall amounts of up to 12 inches of today (the heavy wet stuff) and everybody there is running around in shorts and t-shirts.
The extreme contrast was worth noting.
My Nephew
The final stats are in for my nephew. His field goal percentage was amazing this year, and it's not just because he's underneath the basket. He's got an amazing three-point touch as well.
Tuesday, March 22, 2016
In the End, The Wolves Are the Wolves
It was fun watching the last part of the Wolves games last night against the undisputed reigning, defending NBA champions, the Golden State Warriors. I was surprised that I was actually rooting for the upset to occur.
But when all was said and done, the Wolves were the Wolves. They missed shots and had turnovers at the end. And Golden State was Golden State.
They won. Again.
I've been watching the Wolves not quite win for a long time now. I don't enjoy that. I like watching good teams play. I like watching Golden State.
Go Warriors!
But when all was said and done, the Wolves were the Wolves. They missed shots and had turnovers at the end. And Golden State was Golden State.
They won. Again.
I've been watching the Wolves not quite win for a long time now. I don't enjoy that. I like watching good teams play. I like watching Golden State.
Go Warriors!
Sano
Sano is starting in right field for the Twins this spring as expected, but since its spring he's not playing much. And not a lot of balls are heading his way...
This picture is an example, however, of a ball actually hit to him. It was Sunday's game. It was an easy enough play, but Sano dropped it. It was his first official error of the spring, even though reports are that most balls hit his way are looking a little ugly.
There's no doubt that Sano will be the man with that position this year, but that error is putting extra pressure on Oswaldo Arcia. He's got a good bat as well, but he's about as bad in the outfield as Sano. The problem is that Oswaldo is out of options. IF the Twins decide he's not going to be our back-up outfielder when the season starts, he's basically done as a Twin.
But you normally want a good fielding outfielder as your back-up man. It would make no sense to put in Oswaldo late for Sano in close games. That's the puzzle facing Molitor. Darin Mastroianni is a proven glove with speed, and he would normally be the Twins fourth outfielder.
Molitor has a tough choice to make.
This picture is an example, however, of a ball actually hit to him. It was Sunday's game. It was an easy enough play, but Sano dropped it. It was his first official error of the spring, even though reports are that most balls hit his way are looking a little ugly.
There's no doubt that Sano will be the man with that position this year, but that error is putting extra pressure on Oswaldo Arcia. He's got a good bat as well, but he's about as bad in the outfield as Sano. The problem is that Oswaldo is out of options. IF the Twins decide he's not going to be our back-up outfielder when the season starts, he's basically done as a Twin.
But you normally want a good fielding outfielder as your back-up man. It would make no sense to put in Oswaldo late for Sano in close games. That's the puzzle facing Molitor. Darin Mastroianni is a proven glove with speed, and he would normally be the Twins fourth outfielder.
Molitor has a tough choice to make.
Monday, March 21, 2016
Void Continues
The ACC has 6 of the final 16 teams in the NCAA Tournament. That's cool, but I still have no interest in the games. The final four is usually good enough to put some tube time in. I have some time to go before those games.
So what's a casual sports' fan to do until real baseball games start?
I've told you before about a TV channel that specializes in old shows, The Heroes and Icons channel. They switch up their lineup quite a bit. As of right now they run shows like Have Gun Will Travel (the best western ever), Kung Fu (also great) and Hercules and Xena (both extremely fun) daily.
Since all of these are some of our all-time favorites, we aren't having that hard a time finding something to watch. Throw in some recent movie acquisitions like The Martian and Spectre, and you have a fun weekend even with no sports.
Still waiting for baseball, though. Reruns don't fill the void, they merely get your mind off of it.
So what's a casual sports' fan to do until real baseball games start?
I've told you before about a TV channel that specializes in old shows, The Heroes and Icons channel. They switch up their lineup quite a bit. As of right now they run shows like Have Gun Will Travel (the best western ever), Kung Fu (also great) and Hercules and Xena (both extremely fun) daily.
Since all of these are some of our all-time favorites, we aren't having that hard a time finding something to watch. Throw in some recent movie acquisitions like The Martian and Spectre, and you have a fun weekend even with no sports.
Still waiting for baseball, though. Reruns don't fill the void, they merely get your mind off of it.
Sunday, March 20, 2016
Spurs Beat Warriors At Home
The two best teams in basketball continue their ongoing chess match. San Antonio remains undefeated at home as fans got to enjoy the latest battle.
Curry? One for twelve from three-point land!
Curry? One for twelve from three-point land!
Saturday, March 19, 2016
More Upsets
I normally like upsets in sports, but in college basketball if you have a 2nd ranked team like Michigan State getting beat in their first game, it shows one of two things: 1) ALL the teams are so similar that ranking them becomes a fool's errand, or 2) lesser teams should not even have the opportunity to beat teams that were dominant all season. Being lucky once may make some fans happy, but it leaves a bitter taste in my mouth.
If an off day can cost a top team a spot in the finals, it lessens the overall game. If you play enough games, you're bound to lose a few, and some of those losses will happen against poorer teams.
With all the upsets yesterday, though, I think the real reason so many upsets occurred is because all the teams are simply too close in ability and performance. My 256 team tournament idea from yesterday is starting to make even more sense. Much like soccer, NCAA basketball has deteriorated into every team being pretty good sometimes.
The great random 256 team tournament of ping pong ball selections should be just around the corner.
And a 512 team tournament can't be that far behind.
In the meantime, go Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders!
If an off day can cost a top team a spot in the finals, it lessens the overall game. If you play enough games, you're bound to lose a few, and some of those losses will happen against poorer teams.
With all the upsets yesterday, though, I think the real reason so many upsets occurred is because all the teams are simply too close in ability and performance. My 256 team tournament idea from yesterday is starting to make even more sense. Much like soccer, NCAA basketball has deteriorated into every team being pretty good sometimes.
The great random 256 team tournament of ping pong ball selections should be just around the corner.
And a 512 team tournament can't be that far behind.
In the meantime, go Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders!
Friday, March 18, 2016
Spurs Still Undefeated At Home
If not for the Warriors, everyone would be talking about how good San Antonio is this year.
They have now won 34 straight at home this season. The Bulls won 37 straight during their historic 72 win season in 1995-96.
Their NEXT home opponent?
Golden State on Saturday night.
That one should be good.
They have now won 34 straight at home this season. The Bulls won 37 straight during their historic 72 win season in 1995-96.
Their NEXT home opponent?
Golden State on Saturday night.
That one should be good.
NCAA Basketball
Enough teams and enough games will produce many upsets.
Number 6 Arizona getting beat by number 11 Wichita State was one of the biggest so far (a couple of 12 seeds won as well), which means the 21st-24th best team got beat by the 41st-44th best team.
Neither would have been in my tournament in the first place.
The fan in me would love to see the Shockers take the whole thing, if for their name alone. They always seem to have a very good team. This year is no different.
Maybe it just shows that teams are seeded poorly by the "experts" in the first place.
How about next year we expand the tournament to 256 teams and have all games determined by ping pong ball selections? No seedings at all. Rankings going in would become meaningless and teams would just play based on the luck of the draw.
I'd actually get behind that. It would make the tournament a lot more interesting than it is now.
Number 6 Arizona getting beat by number 11 Wichita State was one of the biggest so far (a couple of 12 seeds won as well), which means the 21st-24th best team got beat by the 41st-44th best team.
Neither would have been in my tournament in the first place.
The fan in me would love to see the Shockers take the whole thing, if for their name alone. They always seem to have a very good team. This year is no different.
Maybe it just shows that teams are seeded poorly by the "experts" in the first place.
How about next year we expand the tournament to 256 teams and have all games determined by ping pong ball selections? No seedings at all. Rankings going in would become meaningless and teams would just play based on the luck of the draw.
I'd actually get behind that. It would make the tournament a lot more interesting than it is now.
Thursday, March 17, 2016
Golden State Now 61-6
They have 50 straight home wins. Curry was 8 for 13 from three-point land.
I watched a bit of the Wolves last night. Zach LaVine was 6-10 from 3-point land as well. With all the talk of Wiggins and Towns, we sometimes forget that Zack is starting to look pretty good out there as well. He's shooting nearly 60% from the field the last month. That includes his threes.
The Wolves beating the Grizzlies at Memphis would normally be reason to celebrate, but the Grizzlies are hurting right now, so though it was nice, it wasn't as big a deal as it could have been. The Wolves looked good though. I give them credit where credit is due.
I watched a bit of the Wolves last night. Zach LaVine was 6-10 from 3-point land as well. With all the talk of Wiggins and Towns, we sometimes forget that Zack is starting to look pretty good out there as well. He's shooting nearly 60% from the field the last month. That includes his threes.
The Wolves beating the Grizzlies at Memphis would normally be reason to celebrate, but the Grizzlies are hurting right now, so though it was nice, it wasn't as big a deal as it could have been. The Wolves looked good though. I give them credit where credit is due.
Wednesday, March 16, 2016
Matt Cassel
Matt Cassel signed with the Buffalo Bills last year, thinking he would be their starting quarterback.
But Tyrod Taylor got the job instead, and Matt sat on the bench all year except for ONE PLAY. He made the most of that play, though, he handed the ball off to LeSean McCoy while Taylor played a decoy receiver on a trick play.
That ONE PLAY netted Cassel an incredible bonus check.
$58.73! Sometimes the mind boggles.
Most experts agree that is the smallest bonus check in the history of the NFL.
I would recommend pizza, but don't have it delivered. There won't be enough for the tip.
But Tyrod Taylor got the job instead, and Matt sat on the bench all year except for ONE PLAY. He made the most of that play, though, he handed the ball off to LeSean McCoy while Taylor played a decoy receiver on a trick play.
That ONE PLAY netted Cassel an incredible bonus check.
$58.73! Sometimes the mind boggles.
Most experts agree that is the smallest bonus check in the history of the NFL.
I would recommend pizza, but don't have it delivered. There won't be enough for the tip.
Tuesday, March 15, 2016
Golden State Now 60-6
They also have 49 straight home wins. Stephen Curry turned 28 yesterday. He's officially entered his prime.
Monday, March 14, 2016
The Problem With 68 Teams
I've always hated March Madness. The primary reason? There's just too many teams.
Now, for America, this is the single biggest organized gambling event in existence, and that's why most people who actually follow it care at all. They don't care about the teams, the games, or the players. They just want to see if the teams they picked to win, won. There's some kind of money at stake in the local office pool.
It's not about basketball, it's about making some extra cash. Most of those betting don't watch a single early round game. Many watch no games at all.
I have this same rant every year. But it's more than just sports betting. As I stated already, there's just too many teams. And even with a 68 team tournament...
...there are STILL so many commentators, the next day talking, about how the wrong teams got in, and so many other teams got ripped off by not being the ones invited.
REALLY?!?!
Are the best 15-20 teams included? Then shut UP!
Who cares if the 48th seeded team shouldn't be there? Who cares if 4 other teams that YOU thought should be there aren't in the top 68?
What kind of insanely stupid people feel that including a 66th ranked team belongs in the same tournament as a team ranked THIRD? Why should a team ranked 67th even be given a chance to upset a team ranked 2nd?
The bigger the tournament, the less meaning the regular season has, and if the regular season has no real meaning, why watch any of the games? They have about as much importance as baseball's spring training games.
Even the top ten teams this year have something like 60 losses between them. I believe that's more losses than any top 10 has ever had. None of the teams are special, BUT at least they proved they are better than teams beneath them. They EARNED their spots.
The others simply don't belong.
The tournament should start with an elite eight. Another 8 should be determined from those who just missed a top 8 ranking. And everyone else should settle for the NIT. You'll have the best 8-10 teams in there somewhere, and THEY will be fighting for the crown of best in the country.
As it should be.
Right now, it's March Mediocrity. The TV viewership for the first rounds are awful. Eliminate half the teams next year, and another half the next year. Then you'll have a tournament worth watching.
But now? As my close personal friend Billy Shakespeare once said, it's much ado about nothing.
I'll have to come up with some kind of contest just to make it interesting...
Now, for America, this is the single biggest organized gambling event in existence, and that's why most people who actually follow it care at all. They don't care about the teams, the games, or the players. They just want to see if the teams they picked to win, won. There's some kind of money at stake in the local office pool.
It's not about basketball, it's about making some extra cash. Most of those betting don't watch a single early round game. Many watch no games at all.
I have this same rant every year. But it's more than just sports betting. As I stated already, there's just too many teams. And even with a 68 team tournament...
...there are STILL so many commentators, the next day talking, about how the wrong teams got in, and so many other teams got ripped off by not being the ones invited.
REALLY?!?!
Are the best 15-20 teams included? Then shut UP!
Who cares if the 48th seeded team shouldn't be there? Who cares if 4 other teams that YOU thought should be there aren't in the top 68?
What kind of insanely stupid people feel that including a 66th ranked team belongs in the same tournament as a team ranked THIRD? Why should a team ranked 67th even be given a chance to upset a team ranked 2nd?
The bigger the tournament, the less meaning the regular season has, and if the regular season has no real meaning, why watch any of the games? They have about as much importance as baseball's spring training games.
Even the top ten teams this year have something like 60 losses between them. I believe that's more losses than any top 10 has ever had. None of the teams are special, BUT at least they proved they are better than teams beneath them. They EARNED their spots.
The others simply don't belong.
The tournament should start with an elite eight. Another 8 should be determined from those who just missed a top 8 ranking. And everyone else should settle for the NIT. You'll have the best 8-10 teams in there somewhere, and THEY will be fighting for the crown of best in the country.
As it should be.
Right now, it's March Mediocrity. The TV viewership for the first rounds are awful. Eliminate half the teams next year, and another half the next year. Then you'll have a tournament worth watching.
But now? As my close personal friend Billy Shakespeare once said, it's much ado about nothing.
I'll have to come up with some kind of contest just to make it interesting...
Sunday, March 13, 2016
Vikings Making News
In the last week alone, the Vikes have been making fans excited. The gave Marcus Sherels a new 2-year deal. They signed Alex Boone, San Francisco's 6 foot 8 guard to a 4-year deal, and they're talking about signing Andre Smith, the former Bengal right tackle, as a possible replacement for the still questionable Phil Loadholt, who is coming off that achilles tendon tear.
The funniest news? Officially, the Vikings new stadium will be on Chicago Avenue, the team has requested that the city of Minneapolis change the name of that street to Vikings Way. At least their small part of it. The stadium cost over half a billion dollars, I think the city will probably make one last consideration and compromise there.
The funniest news? Officially, the Vikings new stadium will be on Chicago Avenue, the team has requested that the city of Minneapolis change the name of that street to Vikings Way. At least their small part of it. The stadium cost over half a billion dollars, I think the city will probably make one last consideration and compromise there.
Saturday, March 12, 2016
More Catchers
Spring training brings with it lots and lots of pitchers. With all of those guys pitching, teams also require a boatload of catchers in camp every spring as well.
Stuart Turner is listed as the Twins 16th top prospect. When drafted in 2013, he was considered the best collegiate catcher in the country. He throws out 35% of all attempted base stealers. His biggest problem is that he can't hit. Think Drew Butera.
Another of the prospects in camp is Carlos Paulino. He's got the best arm among Twins catchers. You can actually hear the ball smack the fielders gloves when he throws to them, more so than any other receiver in the Twins receiver corp. He's still learning the fundamentals of catching though. He's always been the back up catcher for every minor league team he's played for. That's not a fast track to the majors.
Stuart Turner is listed as the Twins 16th top prospect. When drafted in 2013, he was considered the best collegiate catcher in the country. He throws out 35% of all attempted base stealers. His biggest problem is that he can't hit. Think Drew Butera.
Another of the prospects in camp is Carlos Paulino. He's got the best arm among Twins catchers. You can actually hear the ball smack the fielders gloves when he throws to them, more so than any other receiver in the Twins receiver corp. He's still learning the fundamentals of catching though. He's always been the back up catcher for every minor league team he's played for. That's not a fast track to the majors.
Wolves Beat OKC AT OKC!
Beating a big name team with big name players is pretty sweet. More please. Ricky Rubio had the three-point buzzer beater for the win. Technically, there was 1/5 of a second left to play after he made it, but there's no easy way to say that.
And I got to type OKC three times. That's always a bonus.
And I got to type OKC three times. That's always a bonus.
Thompson, Curry Combine For 15-25 From Three-Point Land
And the Warriors had 81 points at halftime. Klay Thompson joined Curry as the only other player in league history to make 200 3s in four straight seasons. Curry now has 311 this year.
What's strange is that Portland actually made more three-point plays as a team last night than Golden State did (19-18). The combined 37 threes is also an NBA record.
For everyone else, these numbers are historic. The Warriors think of it as just another Friday night. Stephen Curry suggested this week that their remaining home games should start earlier so that more fans could get the chance to see them play. That's the same thing I suggested earlier this season. I'd vote for that. Right now their games finish at 1a.m. on the East Coast and around midnight for fans in the Midwest.
The NBA's biggest fans are kids, and those times are just too late. Old codgers need their sleep as well. Most sports leagues have the same problem, but this is the first time a major superstar has suggested the idea publicly.
I like Curry even more now.
What's strange is that Portland actually made more three-point plays as a team last night than Golden State did (19-18). The combined 37 threes is also an NBA record.
For everyone else, these numbers are historic. The Warriors think of it as just another Friday night. Stephen Curry suggested this week that their remaining home games should start earlier so that more fans could get the chance to see them play. That's the same thing I suggested earlier this season. I'd vote for that. Right now their games finish at 1a.m. on the East Coast and around midnight for fans in the Midwest.
The NBA's biggest fans are kids, and those times are just too late. Old codgers need their sleep as well. Most sports leagues have the same problem, but this is the first time a major superstar has suggested the idea publicly.
I like Curry even more now.
Friday, March 11, 2016
Catchers
Kurt Suzuki is still the Twins catcher but, as I mentioned in a post several months ago, all our other 2015 40-man roster catchers are gone this spring. That list includes Chris Hermann, Eric Fryer, and Josmil Pinto. So are Dan Rolfing and Tyler Graves, two other non-roster invitee catchers from last spring.
So who will be the primary projected back-up to Suzuki this season? John Ryan Murphy has the best chance. He's a former second round pick of the Yankees and only 24 years old. He's had the most major league experience of the camp candidates. He's probably the closest thing to a lock. The Twins currently look at him as a long-term replacement for Suzuki.
John Hicks and Juan Centeno are cast-offs from other ball clubs. Stuart Turner and Carlos Paulino are our high minor league guys. We even have our two of our A ball catchers in camp: Mitch Garver and Alex Swim.
Honestly, the Twins look for two things in their back-ups. Can they play another position regularly AND can they pinch hit effectively? The more versatile they are, the better chance they have at making the team.
Centeno has never hit more than one homerun in any minor league season, yet he already has a home run this spring. John Hicks was 2-32 in his brief stint with the Mariners last year, but is a lifetime .280 minor league hitter with some power. And he's also a 40-man protected roster player.
The Twins usually go with one back-up catcher and sometimes call up another man who can play outfield and catch if needed. I don't think anybody falls into that category this year. Molitor may use that extra roster spot as a 13th pitcher, too.
So who will be the primary projected back-up to Suzuki this season? John Ryan Murphy has the best chance. He's a former second round pick of the Yankees and only 24 years old. He's had the most major league experience of the camp candidates. He's probably the closest thing to a lock. The Twins currently look at him as a long-term replacement for Suzuki.
John Hicks and Juan Centeno are cast-offs from other ball clubs. Stuart Turner and Carlos Paulino are our high minor league guys. We even have our two of our A ball catchers in camp: Mitch Garver and Alex Swim.
Honestly, the Twins look for two things in their back-ups. Can they play another position regularly AND can they pinch hit effectively? The more versatile they are, the better chance they have at making the team.
Centeno has never hit more than one homerun in any minor league season, yet he already has a home run this spring. John Hicks was 2-32 in his brief stint with the Mariners last year, but is a lifetime .280 minor league hitter with some power. And he's also a 40-man protected roster player.
The Twins usually go with one back-up catcher and sometimes call up another man who can play outfield and catch if needed. I don't think anybody falls into that category this year. Molitor may use that extra roster spot as a 13th pitcher, too.
Thursday, March 10, 2016
Curry Nets Another Half-Court Shot
Actually it was beyond half-court. And yes, Golden State won.
Again.
Again.
Osweiler Deserts Denver
Brock Osweiler is now a Houston Texan. And Denver has lost it's two top quarterbacks in less than a week.
Can't wait to see what happens next in the wonderful world of NFL football.
Can't wait to see what happens next in the wonderful world of NFL football.
Wednesday, March 9, 2016
Void Blues
I could talk about Maria Sharapova getting suspended for using a drug for ten years that wasn't banned until just a couple of months ago.
I could talk about Calvin Johnson officially retiring.
Or Mike Wallace being released by the Vikings after one mediocre season.
But I won't.
I'm just waiting for baseball to start. We lost the last of our snow yesterday. It's been near 70 degrees for a couple days in a row. It seems like baseball weather.
And fans are trapped by spring training games in Florida and Arizona just WAITING for real games to begin.
sigh
I could talk about Calvin Johnson officially retiring.
Or Mike Wallace being released by the Vikings after one mediocre season.
But I won't.
I'm just waiting for baseball to start. We lost the last of our snow yesterday. It's been near 70 degrees for a couple days in a row. It seems like baseball weather.
And fans are trapped by spring training games in Florida and Arizona just WAITING for real games to begin.
sigh
Tuesday, March 8, 2016
Picture of the Day
This illustrates what's wrong with today's game of baseball more than anything. The woman in front ducking and slurping soda? That's a fan. She's paying attention. The fan who thinks he's a photographer with an expensive camera? He's safe, too because at least he's watching the game while taking photos.
But then you have the boy on his phone not paying a lick of attention. If not for Dad, that kid's in the hospital undergoing facial reconstruction surgery, or worse. The Dad gets points for the save, but he better not let his kid use his phone at games any more.
If something would have happened, everybody would have been talking about the tragic "accident."
Just like car "accidents"caused by cell phone use. Pay attention out there. Some things are dangerous when used incorrectly. And some kids never learn.
But then you have the boy on his phone not paying a lick of attention. If not for Dad, that kid's in the hospital undergoing facial reconstruction surgery, or worse. The Dad gets points for the save, but he better not let his kid use his phone at games any more.
If something would have happened, everybody would have been talking about the tragic "accident."
Just like car "accidents"caused by cell phone use. Pay attention out there. Some things are dangerous when used incorrectly. And some kids never learn.
Monday, March 7, 2016
Park Hits Slam, Plays First
Park has now started all five Twins preseason games. To say that's unusual is an understatement. Though it was nice that he hit a grand slam in his first at-bat yesterday, he also played first base for the first time. Reports are that he plays first a lot like Matthew LeCroy played catcher for the Twins.
He has a glove, but you wouldn't say he knows how to use it very well. Tom Kelly, pretty much recovered from his stroke, has taken it upon himself, to work with Park on that. The problem is that his translator is not always with Park, so no one knows how much of TK's coaching is getting through.
Park, like Sano, is going to be an ongoing project in the field.
We're all happy there's still plenty of spring ball left to work with them both.
He has a glove, but you wouldn't say he knows how to use it very well. Tom Kelly, pretty much recovered from his stroke, has taken it upon himself, to work with Park on that. The problem is that his translator is not always with Park, so no one knows how much of TK's coaching is getting through.
Park, like Sano, is going to be an ongoing project in the field.
We're all happy there's still plenty of spring ball left to work with them both.
Manning Rides His Broncos Off Into the Sunset
He says it has nothing to do with the HGH and Tennessee allegations.
I've always said he was the smartest quarterback to ever play the game. This is just another example of that. It's time to let the dust settle.
I've always said he was the smartest quarterback to ever play the game. This is just another example of that. It's time to let the dust settle.
Lakers Club Warriors
Really?
Yep. Golden State made just 13% of their three-point plays. Some are calling it one of the biggest upsets in NBA history.
In other NBA news, the Wolves shot nearly 70% from the field on Saturday night when they beat the Nets.
That's basketball.
Yep. Golden State made just 13% of their three-point plays. Some are calling it one of the biggest upsets in NBA history.
In other NBA news, the Wolves shot nearly 70% from the field on Saturday night when they beat the Nets.
That's basketball.
Sunday, March 6, 2016
UFC
Dana White as president of the UFC has been having problems as of late. Since this is real fighting, as opposed to WWE staged fighting, he can't keep his undefeated fighters undefeated. He can only hope they stay undefeated and get more popular.
When Holly Holm took out Ronda Rousey three months back, he lost the biggest name star he's had in a while. Now Holly Holm got beat by Meisha Tate last night. The rematch between Rousey and Holm just lost much of its luster.
Worse? Undefeated Conor McGregor, the next big thing in UFC, also got submitted last night by journeyman Nate Diaz, a guy who took the fight just a week and a half ago when McGregor's REAL opponent got hurt while training.
Three big deals are now also-rans. Whoever paid for last night's UFC event got their money's worth. But now it's difficult to have another major card in the near future. You need great fighters to get people interested. All of this losing is bad for business.
You can see why WWE books who wins and who loses. They can build events for the future that way. The UFC is going to struggle with that for awhile.
When Holly Holm took out Ronda Rousey three months back, he lost the biggest name star he's had in a while. Now Holly Holm got beat by Meisha Tate last night. The rematch between Rousey and Holm just lost much of its luster.
Worse? Undefeated Conor McGregor, the next big thing in UFC, also got submitted last night by journeyman Nate Diaz, a guy who took the fight just a week and a half ago when McGregor's REAL opponent got hurt while training.
Three big deals are now also-rans. Whoever paid for last night's UFC event got their money's worth. But now it's difficult to have another major card in the near future. You need great fighters to get people interested. All of this losing is bad for business.
You can see why WWE books who wins and who loses. They can build events for the future that way. The UFC is going to struggle with that for awhile.
Saturday, March 5, 2016
Santana
Danny Santana is not going to be the shortstop for the Twins this year. Eduardo Escobar earned that job last year. Santana, who is out of options, must make the roster as a utility guy if he's going to make it at all. In the three spring games so far he has played FOUR positions, subbing late for center and right in the first two games, and splitting his time between third and second in yesterday's 2-2 tie with the Pirates.
IF he could play well at all of these positions it would sure make it easier for the Twins to keep him. Will all of this switching around bother his hitting? Well, he already has a home run this spring, which is one more than Sano and Park combined...
IF he could play well at all of these positions it would sure make it easier for the Twins to keep him. Will all of this switching around bother his hitting? Well, he already has a home run this spring, which is one more than Sano and Park combined...
Friday, March 4, 2016
Curry Held to 5-15 From 3-Point Land, Golden State Still Wins
That was the best defense Curry has seen all year. OKC was in his face all night, no matter how far away from the rim he was. That strategy left other Warriors open, and they all scored instead.
The final score? 121-106. The Warriors swept the season series from the Thunder and have now won an NBA record 44 straight home games.
I wish the games weren't on so late...
The final score? 121-106. The Warriors swept the season series from the Thunder and have now won an NBA record 44 straight home games.
I wish the games weren't on so late...
Sano's Outfield
Sano had no balls hit to him in right in the first game this season. Yesterday, he misplayed a fly ball that led to three runs when it went over his head. Not a routine play according to observers, but also the kind of ball a major leaguer needs to catch. We don't see much highlights of these games in the great white north, so I don't have an opinion myself. Most say Sano will at best look ugly while he learns the position.
Nolasco, trying to earn a spot in the Twins rotation, didn't appreciate the three runs scoring, especially since this was Boston playing their scrub team.
This is the reality of spring ball.
Nolasco, trying to earn a spot in the Twins rotation, didn't appreciate the three runs scoring, especially since this was Boston playing their scrub team.
This is the reality of spring ball.
Thursday, March 3, 2016
Ian Drummond
Ian Desmond, one time All-Star shortstop for the Washington Nationals, turned down a contract extension offer of $107 million for 7 seasons before the 2014 season. He thought he could do better in free agency if he waited...
He had a horrible year in 2014, but the Nationals still offered him a 2-year, $16 million extension deal. He turned them down once more.
Last year was even worse. Washington released him.
He signed a one year deal with the Texas Rangers this offseason for $8 million.
By my math, he basically cost himself $100 million by waiting. The only way he could possibly make up for that is by having one of the best seasons by a shortstop ever and then hoping for another great offer after this season.
No one sees that happening.
$100 million. Gone.
Some folks are just greedy.
He had a horrible year in 2014, but the Nationals still offered him a 2-year, $16 million extension deal. He turned them down once more.
Last year was even worse. Washington released him.
He signed a one year deal with the Texas Rangers this offseason for $8 million.
By my math, he basically cost himself $100 million by waiting. The only way he could possibly make up for that is by having one of the best seasons by a shortstop ever and then hoping for another great offer after this season.
No one sees that happening.
$100 million. Gone.
Some folks are just greedy.
Park Strikes Out Three Times, Twins Still Win
Let's hope Park adjusts to major league pitching better than this.
Wednesday, March 2, 2016
Twins Play First Exhibition Game Today
Okay, it's just spring training, but I'm still allowing myself to get a little excited.
No Curry? No Problem!
Stephen Curry didn't play Tuesday night for Golden State. He was resting his rolled ankle from a previous game. At home, in OT once more, this time it was Draymond Green who hit the awkward three just as the 24 second clock was about to expire.
Net result? 43 straight home wins for the Warriors.
Net result? 43 straight home wins for the Warriors.
Tuesday, March 1, 2016
Denver to Drop Manning
If Peyton Manning chooses to play another year or not, FOX Sports is reporting that he will not be a Bronco.
Most reports have Peyton retiring within a week or so anyway, BUT he has not announced that decision as of yet. The Broncos, planning for next year's salary cap, do not wish to retain Manning's $19 million contract. Super Bowl MVP Von Miller is a free agent. So is back-up quarterback and projected future starter Brock Osweiler. Denver needs to free up money to re-sign both. Defensive tackle Malick Jackson is another free agent they want to retain.
And there just isn't salary cap money to go around. This would be similar to the Packers dropping Brett Favre to make room for Aaron Rodgers. Sometimes you need to say goodbye to Hall of Famers before they say goodbye to you. This is just one of those cases.
Personally, I'd like to see Manning get healthy and play a couple more seasons, but then, I'd like to see Brett come back as well. The odds of either event happening isn't that likely. Old age happens to the best of us.
Most reports have Peyton retiring within a week or so anyway, BUT he has not announced that decision as of yet. The Broncos, planning for next year's salary cap, do not wish to retain Manning's $19 million contract. Super Bowl MVP Von Miller is a free agent. So is back-up quarterback and projected future starter Brock Osweiler. Denver needs to free up money to re-sign both. Defensive tackle Malick Jackson is another free agent they want to retain.
And there just isn't salary cap money to go around. This would be similar to the Packers dropping Brett Favre to make room for Aaron Rodgers. Sometimes you need to say goodbye to Hall of Famers before they say goodbye to you. This is just one of those cases.
Personally, I'd like to see Manning get healthy and play a couple more seasons, but then, I'd like to see Brett come back as well. The odds of either event happening isn't that likely. Old age happens to the best of us.
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