Alex Rodriguez has taken a lot of heat since he came to New York, much of it deserved, some of it not. He came to the Yankees as the best and highest-paid player in the game, and until Game 4 of the 2004 ALCS, there was not a whole lot to complain about.
Then the Red Sox won 4 in a row. Then they won the World Series. The Yankees have not come close since, and Alex Rodriguez's image has taken many hits along the way.
Even though he has earned two MVPs (2005 & 2007) while with the Yankees, the constant pressure on him to perform in the clutch and attention to his personal life have obviously affected him.
After that 2004 postseason, Rodriguez hit .159 with 1 RBI and 2 extra base hits in three consecutive playoff losses, culminating in the Yankees missing the postseason for the first time in 13 years in 2008.
In his defense, Rodriguez has an argument to back up his performance during the regular season. He has averaged a .300 batting average with 40 home runs and 119 RBI as a Yankee so there is little to complain about there. Additionally, postseason performance is placed under a different microscope, and depending on who you talk to, unrealistic expectations are placed on the highest paid player in the game. Before 2005 Rodriguez was a career .330 playoff hitter in 103 at bats.
Then it all came crashing down.
Sandwiched between playoff disappointments and missing the playoffs altogether in 2008, Rodriguez was photographed with a former Playboy model heading out of a Toronto strip club a month before his wife filed for divorce. This created an all new set of problems for Rodriguez, forever changing the image he worked so hard to maintain.
The photos and divorce led to more stories of Rodriguez's infidelities while married, further damaging this image. Then came 2009, and an admission to steroid use, and a tainted career for the man many believed would bring legitimacy to the all time home run record.
The man who spent so much time developing an image as the face of baseball now was public enemy number one, this generation's Barry Bonds. Only two things were different:
He actually admitted to using, and he cares about his image.
No matter how or why he admitted, he did actually admit to 'some' using. Personally, I would not be surprised if he used outside of the 2001 - 2003 range that he admitted to, but that is another story. His admission put him in the club with Giambi, Pettite, and others who admitted some form of use. While they may not have shared the whole story, the fact that they said they used lifted a weight off of their shoulders. A-Rod is proving it with every swing of the bat.
People don't really care about it anymore. They have moved on. And I can't help but be transfixed every time he is at bat in this postseason. He is confident, he is loose, and he is undoubtedly the best player on the field.
Call me crazy, but I find myself rooting for the guy. Is he a diva? Yes. Self-Centered? You bet. Phony? Sure, but since when do you have to be Ghandi to earn a rooting interest? Rodriguez's past two years have actually made him look human, and added drama to a vanilla image that led Dustin Pedroia to refer to him as a 'Dork' last year.
His failings have made him interesting, and his reaction to it has been pure entertainment. If Hollywood was to make a movie about A-Rod how fun would it have been before he got to New York? Brief synopsis:
High School kid...better than everybody...first pick in draft...big leagues before 20...All Star...MVP...Married with kids...going to break all major records in baseball history.
Amazing, but where's the drama? You go to the theater to see the drama, the struggle, the human condition on display. That is what Rodriguez has inadvertently done by exposing himself to all of this criticism, and by becoming human in my eyes, I have reason to root for him. I also want him to do well because he is so talented, and what is more fun then watching a the best player in baseball perform at his highest level? As much as everyone spewed vitriol at Barry Bonds, you made sure to watch when he hit. It is the human reaction to watching such an impressive feat of athleticism and strength, no matter who the person is. At its core baseball is entertainment, and who better to entertain us than the best player in baseball?
Rodriguez has redefined his image unknowingly by not being afraid to be hated, and moving on with his life. He is not a saint by any means, but the gorillas that get thrown off of his back with each playoff home run not only endear him to the fickle New York media, but the fans and most importantly, his teammates. He may not be the favored son in that dugout, but the whole culture of the Yankees is changing before our eyes, as A-Rod is the proverbial straw that stirs the proverbial drink. It is funny how a confession to steroid use and getting exposed personally can change a man for the better, and I am having a great time watching it.
Sunday, October 18, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
Golf in the 2016 Olympics?
A great idea.
I am not sure what circumstances prevented this truly worldwide game from being an Olympic sport since 1904, but it needs to be back in the mix.
As I have heard today while watching coverage of the PGA Championship (Tiger is playing well...watch out), golf has made the necessary strides to be up for a vote in October for inclusion to the 2016 games. There is one reason I can think of that would make this date extremely important:
Tiger Woods.
Tiger will be 40 years old when these Olympics roll around. He is the main driving force behind getting golf in the Olympics and getting him to play while he is still at the height of his game is key to drive interest. The way he keeps in shape, he could play well into his 40's, but there is also the fact that he has had multiple knee surgeries and is only 33 now. He could very well develop arthritis in his knees and be on his way out before we know it. As much as I hate to think that, it could be the case. All the more reason to get him out there sooner than later with the best in the world on Sport's grandest stage.
The idea of having one tournament in which you play for your country every four years should add some terrific drama not only to the Olympics, but the game of golf. The Ryder Cup is a terrific event held every two years, but it involves only the U.S. and Europe. In the years they don't have that it is the President's Cup that pits the U.S. versus the World. However, both are team competitions, which makes them unique and intense in their own right, but not like a worldwide tournament held every four years for a Gold Medal. This could truly be a fifth major, yet the most coveted in that you only get an opportunity to win it every four years. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to the hype, importance, and exposure for this event. Now the IOC just has to vote this thing through.
As much as I hate the idea of taking baseball and to a lesser extent, softball out of the games, I could understand why they were removed. While each is growing in global participation, they are still far from being worldwide sports. Golf is already worldwide.
One of the ideas I heard today was that they would take the Top 15 players in the world and after that they would take no more than two players from each country to fill remaining spots. With that system, if it were to be used today, over 30 countries would be represented in the Olympic Tournament. Golf is truly a worldwide game that is covered across six continents.
In addition to this I heard Jim Gray (who I am not a fan of BTW) speak to the effect that the 1992 Dream Team had not only on the Olympics, but International Basketball as a whole along with the NBA. Look at NBA rosters now as compared to 1992. The foreign influence has been dramatic, and the game has grown worldwide. Going back to '92, who was the most recognizable athlete in the world? Michael Jordan, who was at the forefront of the Dream Team.
Fast forward to today. Who is the most recognizable athlete in the world? Tiger Woods. Put him at the forefront of what could be a fantastic event and watch golf explode even more.
I can't wait to see it.
I am not sure what circumstances prevented this truly worldwide game from being an Olympic sport since 1904, but it needs to be back in the mix.
As I have heard today while watching coverage of the PGA Championship (Tiger is playing well...watch out), golf has made the necessary strides to be up for a vote in October for inclusion to the 2016 games. There is one reason I can think of that would make this date extremely important:
Tiger Woods.
Tiger will be 40 years old when these Olympics roll around. He is the main driving force behind getting golf in the Olympics and getting him to play while he is still at the height of his game is key to drive interest. The way he keeps in shape, he could play well into his 40's, but there is also the fact that he has had multiple knee surgeries and is only 33 now. He could very well develop arthritis in his knees and be on his way out before we know it. As much as I hate to think that, it could be the case. All the more reason to get him out there sooner than later with the best in the world on Sport's grandest stage.
The idea of having one tournament in which you play for your country every four years should add some terrific drama not only to the Olympics, but the game of golf. The Ryder Cup is a terrific event held every two years, but it involves only the U.S. and Europe. In the years they don't have that it is the President's Cup that pits the U.S. versus the World. However, both are team competitions, which makes them unique and intense in their own right, but not like a worldwide tournament held every four years for a Gold Medal. This could truly be a fifth major, yet the most coveted in that you only get an opportunity to win it every four years. The possibilities are truly endless when it comes to the hype, importance, and exposure for this event. Now the IOC just has to vote this thing through.
As much as I hate the idea of taking baseball and to a lesser extent, softball out of the games, I could understand why they were removed. While each is growing in global participation, they are still far from being worldwide sports. Golf is already worldwide.
One of the ideas I heard today was that they would take the Top 15 players in the world and after that they would take no more than two players from each country to fill remaining spots. With that system, if it were to be used today, over 30 countries would be represented in the Olympic Tournament. Golf is truly a worldwide game that is covered across six continents.
In addition to this I heard Jim Gray (who I am not a fan of BTW) speak to the effect that the 1992 Dream Team had not only on the Olympics, but International Basketball as a whole along with the NBA. Look at NBA rosters now as compared to 1992. The foreign influence has been dramatic, and the game has grown worldwide. Going back to '92, who was the most recognizable athlete in the world? Michael Jordan, who was at the forefront of the Dream Team.
Fast forward to today. Who is the most recognizable athlete in the world? Tiger Woods. Put him at the forefront of what could be a fantastic event and watch golf explode even more.
I can't wait to see it.
Monday, June 8, 2009
Roger and Tiger
I'd say it is a pretty good Sports Sunday when you can see Roger Federer win his first French Open and Tiger Woods come from 4 down to with the Memorial with a 65. My two favorite athletes at the top of their game...nothing like it.
Over the last few years I have gained more respect and admiration for Federer through watching him play and conduct himself. He epitomizes class as well as excellence on ad off the court. I am fully aware of how fans often percieve athletes as something they are not, but I can't help but think that Roger is a genuine individual who is worth rooting for.
As for Tiger, what else can I say? I am extremely excited about his prospects for the U.S. Open, and who wouldn't be (other than every other tour pro)? When the best player in the world does not miss a fairway on the last day of the tournament before the U.S. Open, I'd say that is bad news for the rest of the players.
Congrats to the best I have ever seen, and hopefully there is a lot more to come...
Over the last few years I have gained more respect and admiration for Federer through watching him play and conduct himself. He epitomizes class as well as excellence on ad off the court. I am fully aware of how fans often percieve athletes as something they are not, but I can't help but think that Roger is a genuine individual who is worth rooting for.
As for Tiger, what else can I say? I am extremely excited about his prospects for the U.S. Open, and who wouldn't be (other than every other tour pro)? When the best player in the world does not miss a fairway on the last day of the tournament before the U.S. Open, I'd say that is bad news for the rest of the players.
Congrats to the best I have ever seen, and hopefully there is a lot more to come...
Friday, May 15, 2009
Random Question of the Day...
For some reason this just popped into my head:
We see MLB managers get thrown out of a game, sometimes NBA coaches as well. But has anyone ever seen an NFL Head Coach get tossed?
We see MLB managers get thrown out of a game, sometimes NBA coaches as well. But has anyone ever seen an NFL Head Coach get tossed?
Thursday, May 7, 2009
Manny: Another Sad Story
With today's news that Manny Ramirez tested positive for a PED, baseball was hit with another uppercut to its credibility, further proving that the 'steroid era' is by no means over.
Of course he has already come out with the 'My doctor prescribed it' story, but I don't care. Even if that story has a shred of truth to it (which I doubt), Manny needs to own up and leave his 'doctor' out of this. Everyone affiliated with Major League Baseball has the means to look up what substances are banned and which are not. I know of at least 83 banned substances that baseball tests for. 7 of them are drugs of abuse, 46 are steroids, and 30 are stimulants. If you are looking at taking something which you are not sure about, MLB is very clear as to what is not allowed. Furthermore, if Manny were to have any questions about this 'prescription,' there are dozens of sources at his disposal that he could double-check with first. If he took the opportunity to check first, take second, this would not have happened if you base this off of his story.
That being said, I believe that Manny, like A-Rod, knew exactly what he was taking, how long he has taken it, and what it has helped him achieve on the field. Now that may sound presumptuous, but do you blame me for thinking that? Have any of these stories, be it A-Rod, Bonds, Canseco, Clemens, Giambi, etc. led you to believe anything otherwise?
For those of you who are not so sure if Manny did something on purpose, I'll let you in on a little secret: Nobody takes PED's by accident. The next one that does will be the first. All of the pro athletes that do it know they are doing it and why they are doing it. It is a culture that starts with a few and spreads like wildfire once others realize that they may be costing themselves millions by not doing it.
The bottom line is this; I do not care what story Manny comes up with, he was cheating and got caught, period. In a way I try to view it as a good thing in that we have one less player to wonder if they are clean or not. However, it is sad for baseball because the more these names come out, the more it hurts the game.
There is no end in sight for stopping this short of allowing PED use, which will never happen. How does MLB stop this?
Of course he has already come out with the 'My doctor prescribed it' story, but I don't care. Even if that story has a shred of truth to it (which I doubt), Manny needs to own up and leave his 'doctor' out of this. Everyone affiliated with Major League Baseball has the means to look up what substances are banned and which are not. I know of at least 83 banned substances that baseball tests for. 7 of them are drugs of abuse, 46 are steroids, and 30 are stimulants. If you are looking at taking something which you are not sure about, MLB is very clear as to what is not allowed. Furthermore, if Manny were to have any questions about this 'prescription,' there are dozens of sources at his disposal that he could double-check with first. If he took the opportunity to check first, take second, this would not have happened if you base this off of his story.
That being said, I believe that Manny, like A-Rod, knew exactly what he was taking, how long he has taken it, and what it has helped him achieve on the field. Now that may sound presumptuous, but do you blame me for thinking that? Have any of these stories, be it A-Rod, Bonds, Canseco, Clemens, Giambi, etc. led you to believe anything otherwise?
For those of you who are not so sure if Manny did something on purpose, I'll let you in on a little secret: Nobody takes PED's by accident. The next one that does will be the first. All of the pro athletes that do it know they are doing it and why they are doing it. It is a culture that starts with a few and spreads like wildfire once others realize that they may be costing themselves millions by not doing it.
The bottom line is this; I do not care what story Manny comes up with, he was cheating and got caught, period. In a way I try to view it as a good thing in that we have one less player to wonder if they are clean or not. However, it is sad for baseball because the more these names come out, the more it hurts the game.
There is no end in sight for stopping this short of allowing PED use, which will never happen. How does MLB stop this?
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Brett Favre - Why?
Since the NFL Draft is over and teams are trying to set their rosters for training camp, it must be time to talk about Brett Favre...NOOOOOOOOOOOO!
Seriously though, here is my take:
If you are going to consider coming back, again, why say in an interview that you are not planning on coming back? I would be fine if he said 'Hey, I may still come back, but I want to let the Jets (or whoever he has/will/might play for) move forward as if I am not going to be a member of their team.'
To his credit, he let the Jets do that, but he didn't let the Packers always do that. He drug out the process over the last two or three years he spent by waffling on his decision, which really tainted his image. I always loved Brett Favre. I loved watching him play and respected the way he conducted himself, (especially after getting help for a painkiller problem), but the latest news from Favre is tired. I cannot keep cutting him slack. It seems as if he is addicted to having his name come up on ESPN around this time of year with talk of 'will he or won't he return,' and I'm sure I speak for a lot of people when I say enough is enough.
Why can't you just stay retired?
With this new talk of returning to the NFL with the Vikings, I can't help but speculate that this is to spite the Packers, who I guess after loving him for two decades have wronged him in some way. Could you imagine if Tommy Lasorda went to manage the Giants after he left the Dodgers? Or if Derek Jeter left the Yankees to sign with the Red Sox? How about Magic Johnson and Larry Bird switching teams straight up? It would feel dirty, and this is what this playing out to be.
I can respect someone wanting to still play. And as much as I respect a guy for leaving on a good note (Elway, Jordan (the first and second time), Billy Chapel :) ) I can't say that a guy shouldn't play if he feels like he has something to give. But to drag things out and make false statements only hurts your image and makes people dislike you more.
I guess it doesn't matter to Farve, but I wish it did.
Seriously though, here is my take:
If you are going to consider coming back, again, why say in an interview that you are not planning on coming back? I would be fine if he said 'Hey, I may still come back, but I want to let the Jets (or whoever he has/will/might play for) move forward as if I am not going to be a member of their team.'
To his credit, he let the Jets do that, but he didn't let the Packers always do that. He drug out the process over the last two or three years he spent by waffling on his decision, which really tainted his image. I always loved Brett Favre. I loved watching him play and respected the way he conducted himself, (especially after getting help for a painkiller problem), but the latest news from Favre is tired. I cannot keep cutting him slack. It seems as if he is addicted to having his name come up on ESPN around this time of year with talk of 'will he or won't he return,' and I'm sure I speak for a lot of people when I say enough is enough.
Why can't you just stay retired?
With this new talk of returning to the NFL with the Vikings, I can't help but speculate that this is to spite the Packers, who I guess after loving him for two decades have wronged him in some way. Could you imagine if Tommy Lasorda went to manage the Giants after he left the Dodgers? Or if Derek Jeter left the Yankees to sign with the Red Sox? How about Magic Johnson and Larry Bird switching teams straight up? It would feel dirty, and this is what this playing out to be.
I can respect someone wanting to still play. And as much as I respect a guy for leaving on a good note (Elway, Jordan (the first and second time), Billy Chapel :) ) I can't say that a guy shouldn't play if he feels like he has something to give. But to drag things out and make false statements only hurts your image and makes people dislike you more.
I guess it doesn't matter to Farve, but I wish it did.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Slumdog Millionaire: Best Picture?
This blog has been mostly sports related, but I love movies as well, so here ya go...
I know I am a little late to the party on this, but I just watched Slumdog Millionaire last night. After seeing some of 2008's most well reviewed films, I feel that the Academy got it wrong. Of course, I felt that way when the nominations came out, but this only solidified my opinion.
Don't get me wrong, Slumdog is a fine film. I am all for something that opens the eyes of everyone, American's especially. The film depicts the slums of Mumbai unlike anything I have ever seen, and it is important for those of us who have it so good to realize how good we in fact have it.
That being said, Slumdog was not the best film of 2008. The film that stood out for me more than any other was The Dark Knight. First of all, how many times does a movie exceed expectation, especially a film with the anticipation of TDK? Christopher Nolan is on the short lists for best filmmakers today, having penned and directed TDK, Batman Begins, The Prestige, Insomnia, and Memento. The fact that he recieved no love from the Academy for TDK really bothers me.
The Dark Knight was so superbly paced, written, acted, and filmed it was almost scary. Heath Ledger (who did get the love he deserved from the Academy) was amazing, as was the entire cast. Not to mention the film grossed over half a billion dollars here in America. Movies don't do that every year. You have to have the perfect combination of popularity, buzz, and quality to accomplish that. TDK did.
Again, I know it is a little late, but the Academy really tripped up by not even nomination TDK or Chris Nolan. It is time for voters to recognize that mainstream films (even superhero ones) can and should recieve serious consideration, especially when they are done as well as The Dark Knight. It was not only the most popular movie of the year, it was the best.
I know I am a little late to the party on this, but I just watched Slumdog Millionaire last night. After seeing some of 2008's most well reviewed films, I feel that the Academy got it wrong. Of course, I felt that way when the nominations came out, but this only solidified my opinion.
Don't get me wrong, Slumdog is a fine film. I am all for something that opens the eyes of everyone, American's especially. The film depicts the slums of Mumbai unlike anything I have ever seen, and it is important for those of us who have it so good to realize how good we in fact have it.
That being said, Slumdog was not the best film of 2008. The film that stood out for me more than any other was The Dark Knight. First of all, how many times does a movie exceed expectation, especially a film with the anticipation of TDK? Christopher Nolan is on the short lists for best filmmakers today, having penned and directed TDK, Batman Begins, The Prestige, Insomnia, and Memento. The fact that he recieved no love from the Academy for TDK really bothers me.
The Dark Knight was so superbly paced, written, acted, and filmed it was almost scary. Heath Ledger (who did get the love he deserved from the Academy) was amazing, as was the entire cast. Not to mention the film grossed over half a billion dollars here in America. Movies don't do that every year. You have to have the perfect combination of popularity, buzz, and quality to accomplish that. TDK did.
Again, I know it is a little late, but the Academy really tripped up by not even nomination TDK or Chris Nolan. It is time for voters to recognize that mainstream films (even superhero ones) can and should recieve serious consideration, especially when they are done as well as The Dark Knight. It was not only the most popular movie of the year, it was the best.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Nick Adenhart 1986-2009
I never met Nick Adenhart. I don't know of anyone who knew him. Yet his death early this morning struck a chord with me that I am trying to process.
For those of you who don't know, Nick Adenhart was a promising pitching prospect for the Los Angeles Angels. So promising he was chosen as the number one prospect in the Angels' organization while also earning a spot on their opening day roster. At the age of 22, Adenhart had his whole life in front of him, and the possibilites seemed to be endless.
Last night was his season opener as he got the call against the Oakland Athletics. For whatever reason he told his dad before the game that he should fly out from Baltimore because 'something special was going to happen.' He was right. For six innings he pitched shutout baseball, proving to himself and the Angels that he belonged in the big leagues. After the game he met with his father and agent Scott Boras, telling them that he 'felt like a big leaguer.' It would be the last game he would ever pitch.
After leaving the ballpark, Adenhart met with some friends and went to a club. On the drive home the car he was riding in was struck by a minivan that had run a red light. Two of the four passengers in the car were pronounced dead at the scene. Adenhart died in surgery a short time after while the fourth passenger is in critical condition but expected to survive.
Unfortunately, accidents like this happen all too often and get reported on far too little, at least on the national scene. Had Nick Adenhart not been in this accident, you would not see this on ESPN, CNN, NBC and so on. In some ways that is good, because if every drunk driving fatality was reported on by the national media, there would be no room for any other news, good or bad. On the other hand, I do not believe that enough people get the message of how serious drunk driving is, our legal system included.
At the forefront of this is the driver of the car that struck Adenhart and his friends. 22 year old Andrew Thomas Gallo was driving on a suspended license from an earlier drunk driving charge. According to all reports, Gallo ran a red light, impacted the car holding Adenhart, then fled the scene only to be caught a half hour later. His blood alcohol level was said to be above the legal limit of .08.
In my opinion, any drunk driver who is deemed to be the cause of an accident should be tried for murder in the case of a fatality occuring. Even if there is not a fatality, I believe that they should be tried for attempted murder. Any time that a person gets drunk and chooses to drive, they have already endangered every other person in their car and every driver on the road.
I view drunk driving no different than if a person was to fire a gun at a fence, not knowing if there was anyone on the other side. Are you trying to kill someone? No, but you don't know if there is anyone on the other side of the fence. Maybe you get lucky and there is nobody on the other side. Or you aren't so lucky, and you end up killing 3 people and critically injuring another.
We need to rethink our drunk driving laws. Anyone who gets caught should go to jail no matter what, and those who cause an accident should be punished more harshly than we do now. It makes me so angry to think that if this murderer had decided to call a cab that 3 families would not have to mourn the death's of loved ones.
The next time you have a drink, think about the mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister, niece, nephew, cousin, or grandparent that you could kill if you get behind the wheel. Then call a cab or have a designated driver take you home.
God Bless all of the families that have to deal with these awful, avoidable tragedies on a daily basis.
For those of you who don't know, Nick Adenhart was a promising pitching prospect for the Los Angeles Angels. So promising he was chosen as the number one prospect in the Angels' organization while also earning a spot on their opening day roster. At the age of 22, Adenhart had his whole life in front of him, and the possibilites seemed to be endless.
Last night was his season opener as he got the call against the Oakland Athletics. For whatever reason he told his dad before the game that he should fly out from Baltimore because 'something special was going to happen.' He was right. For six innings he pitched shutout baseball, proving to himself and the Angels that he belonged in the big leagues. After the game he met with his father and agent Scott Boras, telling them that he 'felt like a big leaguer.' It would be the last game he would ever pitch.
After leaving the ballpark, Adenhart met with some friends and went to a club. On the drive home the car he was riding in was struck by a minivan that had run a red light. Two of the four passengers in the car were pronounced dead at the scene. Adenhart died in surgery a short time after while the fourth passenger is in critical condition but expected to survive.
Unfortunately, accidents like this happen all too often and get reported on far too little, at least on the national scene. Had Nick Adenhart not been in this accident, you would not see this on ESPN, CNN, NBC and so on. In some ways that is good, because if every drunk driving fatality was reported on by the national media, there would be no room for any other news, good or bad. On the other hand, I do not believe that enough people get the message of how serious drunk driving is, our legal system included.
At the forefront of this is the driver of the car that struck Adenhart and his friends. 22 year old Andrew Thomas Gallo was driving on a suspended license from an earlier drunk driving charge. According to all reports, Gallo ran a red light, impacted the car holding Adenhart, then fled the scene only to be caught a half hour later. His blood alcohol level was said to be above the legal limit of .08.
In my opinion, any drunk driver who is deemed to be the cause of an accident should be tried for murder in the case of a fatality occuring. Even if there is not a fatality, I believe that they should be tried for attempted murder. Any time that a person gets drunk and chooses to drive, they have already endangered every other person in their car and every driver on the road.
I view drunk driving no different than if a person was to fire a gun at a fence, not knowing if there was anyone on the other side. Are you trying to kill someone? No, but you don't know if there is anyone on the other side of the fence. Maybe you get lucky and there is nobody on the other side. Or you aren't so lucky, and you end up killing 3 people and critically injuring another.
We need to rethink our drunk driving laws. Anyone who gets caught should go to jail no matter what, and those who cause an accident should be punished more harshly than we do now. It makes me so angry to think that if this murderer had decided to call a cab that 3 families would not have to mourn the death's of loved ones.
The next time you have a drink, think about the mother, father, daughter, son, brother, sister, niece, nephew, cousin, or grandparent that you could kill if you get behind the wheel. Then call a cab or have a designated driver take you home.
God Bless all of the families that have to deal with these awful, avoidable tragedies on a daily basis.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Tiger at Bay Hill
As the tens of you who read this site probably know, Tiger Woods won at Bay Hill yesterday with a dramatic birdie on the 72nd hole (again).
This should really come no surprise to those in the golf world, as Tiger has won Bay Hill six times now, the last two years in dramatic fashion:
2008 Bay Hill
25 Footer for victory on the 72nd hole
2009 Bay Hill
16 footer for victory on the 72nd Hole
I could watch these clips for hours on end, in addition to the many others Tiger has accumulated over the years. I suggest to anyone who is preparing for a game, boardroom meeting, or whatever to pull up Tiger's best hits on youtube or any other site you can find. Few things motivate, inspire, or move me as much as watching Tiger's excellence and passion for being the best.
A few more gems from Tiger:
72nd Hole of the 2008 U.S. Open: Making birdie to force a playoff with Rocco Mediate
Chipping in at 16 on Sunday, 2005 Masters
I suggest watching the entire two-plus minutes of the Masters clip. The tension and buildup leading to and during the shot are unreal, not to mention the goose bumps of excitement I get every time I watch it. Amazing.
Tiger does not approach every facet of the game the way Nicklaus, Palmer, Hogan, or Player did. He plays in a different time where throwing your hat down and screaming exuberant expletives is acceptable, mainly because he made it that way. When he burst onto the scene by turning pro in August of 1996, golf was transformed like never before. His father, Earl Woods, claimed that he would be a transcendent figure worldwide. While opinions on how transcendent Tiger is are debatable, this much is for certain: Tiger has changed the game of golf singe-handedly. And again, it has been amazing to watch.
Here's to hoping Tiger never stops our jaws from dropping and our bumps from goosing...
This should really come no surprise to those in the golf world, as Tiger has won Bay Hill six times now, the last two years in dramatic fashion:
2008 Bay Hill
25 Footer for victory on the 72nd hole
2009 Bay Hill
16 footer for victory on the 72nd Hole
I could watch these clips for hours on end, in addition to the many others Tiger has accumulated over the years. I suggest to anyone who is preparing for a game, boardroom meeting, or whatever to pull up Tiger's best hits on youtube or any other site you can find. Few things motivate, inspire, or move me as much as watching Tiger's excellence and passion for being the best.
A few more gems from Tiger:
72nd Hole of the 2008 U.S. Open: Making birdie to force a playoff with Rocco Mediate
Chipping in at 16 on Sunday, 2005 Masters
I suggest watching the entire two-plus minutes of the Masters clip. The tension and buildup leading to and during the shot are unreal, not to mention the goose bumps of excitement I get every time I watch it. Amazing.
Tiger does not approach every facet of the game the way Nicklaus, Palmer, Hogan, or Player did. He plays in a different time where throwing your hat down and screaming exuberant expletives is acceptable, mainly because he made it that way. When he burst onto the scene by turning pro in August of 1996, golf was transformed like never before. His father, Earl Woods, claimed that he would be a transcendent figure worldwide. While opinions on how transcendent Tiger is are debatable, this much is for certain: Tiger has changed the game of golf singe-handedly. And again, it has been amazing to watch.
Here's to hoping Tiger never stops our jaws from dropping and our bumps from goosing...
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
WBC Continued...
After running over to the TV to catch the 9th inning of the USA Puerto Rico game last night I couldn't help but let out a yell as David Wright's base hit dropped inside the right field line, bringing home Brain Roberts and Jimmy Rollins, securing a spot in for the US in the WBC semifinals.
If you looked on the field you saw pandemonium ensue as Rollins crossed home plate. If you looked in the stands, you wouldn't know if it was a walk-off hit in the WBC or a Marlins - Nationals game in August. That was the drawback.
Again, I'm not sure if we can fill stadiums for every game of this thing, but I KNOW we can do better than 13,000 people for a WBC elimination game involving the US on its own soil. But I digress...
If you were a fan of baseball and/or the USA, last night was a special night. Great, intense baseball is being played. Turn on your TV or buy a ticket to see it!
If you looked on the field you saw pandemonium ensue as Rollins crossed home plate. If you looked in the stands, you wouldn't know if it was a walk-off hit in the WBC or a Marlins - Nationals game in August. That was the drawback.
Again, I'm not sure if we can fill stadiums for every game of this thing, but I KNOW we can do better than 13,000 people for a WBC elimination game involving the US on its own soil. But I digress...
If you were a fan of baseball and/or the USA, last night was a special night. Great, intense baseball is being played. Turn on your TV or buy a ticket to see it!
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
The World Baseball Classic
Now that the WBC is going, I thought I'd share a few thoughts on what I think should be changed, what can be changed, and if it can work in the long run.
The timing of this tournament is a huge concern for me going forward. You cannot help but feel you are watching a spring training game when there are 75 pitch counts and a couple thousand people in the stands. That kills me.
Can it be changed? I don't know. I've heard some say that it would work better at the conclusion of the season because guys would not have to worry about getting into shape earlier than usual, which I agree with. However, I'm not sure that any more guys would want to gut it out over the course of three additional weeks after the season than do now before the season.
I, like many fans I'm sure, hope that this turns into an event that fills stadiums and engrosses all country's involved. The overall premise of the WBC is great, and I applaud the players who are behind it 100%. At the same time, I totally understand the reasoning of those players who turn down invites to play. They are sitting on million dollar contracts that in some cases cannot be protected if they hurt themselves in the tournament.
I'd be hard pressed to find one GM who is for the idea of his players playing in this tournament at any time of year. An organization is only worried about themselves, and a GM is only worried about his players being healthy for the season. The WBC does not guarantee that Derek Jeter or Ichiro won't tweak a knee or break a bone, and I'm afraid this fact will never change the stance organizations have on it.
How do you create a WBC that players cannot come up with good reason not to play? I don't think you can. As long as MLB players are making millions and have guaranteed contracts, teams (and players in some cases) are not going to get behind the idea of playing in this thing.
Just look at some of the US players that could be on this team:
CC Sabathia
Tim Lincecum
Cole Hamels
Roy Halladay
Cliff Lee
Jonathan Papelbon
Joe Mauer
Ryan Howard
Chase Utley
Lance Berkman
Matt Holliday
Josh Hamilton
...and I am sure that there are names I left out.
This is not to show that I disagree with the makeup of this year's team - I feel that they have done a good job of putting together a well-rounded team as opposed to a team of all-stars. However, it would be nice if the rotation was Sabathia, Lincecum, Hamels, Peavy, Halladay (or something like that) rather than going to Jeremy Guthrie as your guy after Peavy and Oswalt (like they did the other day).
I think the best move going forward is to have the classic at the conclusion of the World Series. Advertise it during the whole postseason, get it out there to as many people as you can. With March Madness coming up the WBC is not as talked about as I feel it should be. Get it on one of the big 4 networks (NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX) to ensure that anyone who wants to watch it will. I don't want to have ESPN Deportes or ESPN 8 (the ocho!) to see a game.
Even though it would be in the fall weather should not be an issue. Pick domed stadiums - Seattle, Arizona, Houston, Toronto, Milwaukee - to gaurantee that weather will not effect the games.
Since its at the end of the World Series, pitch counts would not have to be used because pitchers will be in game shape. This would create more realistic, in-season-like games instead of having to take your ace out in the 3rd because his pitch count is up.
As for the brackets, I'd like to see more of a series format rather than the 4 team, 4 pool bracket that exists now. Figure out a seeding system (possibly from the results of this year's tourney or the International Baseball Rankings) and have 8 3-game series in the first round, 4 in the second, 2 in the third, and a final 3 game series for the championship.
I didn't like the fact that the US knocked Venezuela around in their first meeting then lost 5-3 in the second yet they have a lower seed and have to play Puerto Rico in the first game of the second round...that doesn't seem fair to me. Both teams beat each other once, both teams lost once, yet the other team gets a higher seed because they won a game in which both teams knew they were moving on? I think that really waters down the intensity of the games. Put more on the line in each game and see what happens. Seed the teams 1-16 and set matchups up accordingly for three game series. You can still have the first round in four locations, each hosting 2 3-game series each.
I really think if they take the time (and money in the right places), this can become a truly fun and great event. Right now it is interesting, but not important, in part because it is new and in part because those involved in planning in need to fine tune some things. . I would hate for it to go away and/or be watered down with any gimmicks because in my opinon, the WBC could be a great tool to spread the game worldwide and pump national pride into baseball.
The timing of this tournament is a huge concern for me going forward. You cannot help but feel you are watching a spring training game when there are 75 pitch counts and a couple thousand people in the stands. That kills me.
Can it be changed? I don't know. I've heard some say that it would work better at the conclusion of the season because guys would not have to worry about getting into shape earlier than usual, which I agree with. However, I'm not sure that any more guys would want to gut it out over the course of three additional weeks after the season than do now before the season.
I, like many fans I'm sure, hope that this turns into an event that fills stadiums and engrosses all country's involved. The overall premise of the WBC is great, and I applaud the players who are behind it 100%. At the same time, I totally understand the reasoning of those players who turn down invites to play. They are sitting on million dollar contracts that in some cases cannot be protected if they hurt themselves in the tournament.
I'd be hard pressed to find one GM who is for the idea of his players playing in this tournament at any time of year. An organization is only worried about themselves, and a GM is only worried about his players being healthy for the season. The WBC does not guarantee that Derek Jeter or Ichiro won't tweak a knee or break a bone, and I'm afraid this fact will never change the stance organizations have on it.
How do you create a WBC that players cannot come up with good reason not to play? I don't think you can. As long as MLB players are making millions and have guaranteed contracts, teams (and players in some cases) are not going to get behind the idea of playing in this thing.
Just look at some of the US players that could be on this team:
CC Sabathia
Tim Lincecum
Cole Hamels
Roy Halladay
Cliff Lee
Jonathan Papelbon
Joe Mauer
Ryan Howard
Chase Utley
Lance Berkman
Matt Holliday
Josh Hamilton
...and I am sure that there are names I left out.
This is not to show that I disagree with the makeup of this year's team - I feel that they have done a good job of putting together a well-rounded team as opposed to a team of all-stars. However, it would be nice if the rotation was Sabathia, Lincecum, Hamels, Peavy, Halladay (or something like that) rather than going to Jeremy Guthrie as your guy after Peavy and Oswalt (like they did the other day).
I think the best move going forward is to have the classic at the conclusion of the World Series. Advertise it during the whole postseason, get it out there to as many people as you can. With March Madness coming up the WBC is not as talked about as I feel it should be. Get it on one of the big 4 networks (NBC, ABC, CBS, FOX) to ensure that anyone who wants to watch it will. I don't want to have ESPN Deportes or ESPN 8 (the ocho!) to see a game.
Even though it would be in the fall weather should not be an issue. Pick domed stadiums - Seattle, Arizona, Houston, Toronto, Milwaukee - to gaurantee that weather will not effect the games.
Since its at the end of the World Series, pitch counts would not have to be used because pitchers will be in game shape. This would create more realistic, in-season-like games instead of having to take your ace out in the 3rd because his pitch count is up.
As for the brackets, I'd like to see more of a series format rather than the 4 team, 4 pool bracket that exists now. Figure out a seeding system (possibly from the results of this year's tourney or the International Baseball Rankings) and have 8 3-game series in the first round, 4 in the second, 2 in the third, and a final 3 game series for the championship.
I didn't like the fact that the US knocked Venezuela around in their first meeting then lost 5-3 in the second yet they have a lower seed and have to play Puerto Rico in the first game of the second round...that doesn't seem fair to me. Both teams beat each other once, both teams lost once, yet the other team gets a higher seed because they won a game in which both teams knew they were moving on? I think that really waters down the intensity of the games. Put more on the line in each game and see what happens. Seed the teams 1-16 and set matchups up accordingly for three game series. You can still have the first round in four locations, each hosting 2 3-game series each.
I really think if they take the time (and money in the right places), this can become a truly fun and great event. Right now it is interesting, but not important, in part because it is new and in part because those involved in planning in need to fine tune some things. . I would hate for it to go away and/or be watered down with any gimmicks because in my opinon, the WBC could be a great tool to spread the game worldwide and pump national pride into baseball.
Friday, March 6, 2009
About my Father
For those of you that don't know who my father was, this was a great little piece written by Bruce Jenkins, a sportswriter for the San Francisco Chronicle and an old friend of my Dad.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/threedotblog/detail?blogid=60&entry_id=36165#comments
My father passed away in May of 2007, but his influence, especially in the game of baseball, still resonates with those that knew him. As one of his three kids, that always makes me proud. This article is a great example of the many "what-ifs" he had during his career as a scout, and probably the biggest mistake the San Francisco Giants made in the draft the past 20 years.
My father was by no means perfect. Some of his vices had the most harmful implications on a human body (i.e. smoking, adding salt to anything, drinking anything that had sugar in it), and he rarely thought about what he said before he said it. On the flip side, he had more friends than most, was sharper than any of his peers, always provided for us, and was always supportive of our decisions.
When it came to baseball, I always valued his opinions over everyone else. I felt that he was the best evaluator of talent I ever knew, which was good because that helped put food on the table for us. In the inexact science of baseball scouting, he was about as accurate as one could be, especially when it came to projecting what a kid would look like in 5-10 years.
He may have had only a high school education, but his IQ when it came to baseball was off the charts. Thanks to Bruce Jenkins for helping more to understand this, and for keeping his legacy alive.
http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/threedotblog/detail?blogid=60&entry_id=36165#comments
My father passed away in May of 2007, but his influence, especially in the game of baseball, still resonates with those that knew him. As one of his three kids, that always makes me proud. This article is a great example of the many "what-ifs" he had during his career as a scout, and probably the biggest mistake the San Francisco Giants made in the draft the past 20 years.
My father was by no means perfect. Some of his vices had the most harmful implications on a human body (i.e. smoking, adding salt to anything, drinking anything that had sugar in it), and he rarely thought about what he said before he said it. On the flip side, he had more friends than most, was sharper than any of his peers, always provided for us, and was always supportive of our decisions.
When it came to baseball, I always valued his opinions over everyone else. I felt that he was the best evaluator of talent I ever knew, which was good because that helped put food on the table for us. In the inexact science of baseball scouting, he was about as accurate as one could be, especially when it came to projecting what a kid would look like in 5-10 years.
He may have had only a high school education, but his IQ when it came to baseball was off the charts. Thanks to Bruce Jenkins for helping more to understand this, and for keeping his legacy alive.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
It has begun...
Hello to all,
My hope with this blog is to share my thoughts and opinions with all who care to read. I will rant and rave about anything that comes to my mind, be it sports (which you will read a lot of on here), movies, politics, family, or anything else that I care to write about.
I have always loved to write on things I am passionate about. Hopefully doing that here will create an entertaining and insightful blog for my readers.
As for the name of the blog, I always enjoyed the conversations I had and the people I met while playing first base in high school, college, and pro baseball. I spoke with friends, foes, and people I looked up to very much while they were on first base, and while they were not always long or exciting, it always gave me a unique perspective of the game and the world around me. That is what I want to bring to this blog.
Thanks in advance for reading and talk to you soon...
My hope with this blog is to share my thoughts and opinions with all who care to read. I will rant and rave about anything that comes to my mind, be it sports (which you will read a lot of on here), movies, politics, family, or anything else that I care to write about.
I have always loved to write on things I am passionate about. Hopefully doing that here will create an entertaining and insightful blog for my readers.
As for the name of the blog, I always enjoyed the conversations I had and the people I met while playing first base in high school, college, and pro baseball. I spoke with friends, foes, and people I looked up to very much while they were on first base, and while they were not always long or exciting, it always gave me a unique perspective of the game and the world around me. That is what I want to bring to this blog.
Thanks in advance for reading and talk to you soon...
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