Vick is an Eagle

After spending the last two seasons behind bars, Michael Vick has signed a two-year deal with the Philadelphia Eagles.

The deal gives Vick and one year deal, with an option for a second year, according to his agent. The terms include, $1.65 million for the first year, with a $5.2 million team option on the second year.

Out of the all the team's Philly had to be one of the least expected teams for him to land on. After McNabb lead the Eagles to an incredible playoff run last season, it's expected he is not in any jeopardy of losing his job. Vick has even stated he's not aiming to be a starting quarterback right now.

So where does that leave him?

Well, Vick was signed for multiple reasons. For one Vick, as the athlete can still be utilized in a few ways. One of the biggest ways he can be used is in the wild-cat formation. Lining up McNabb and Westbrook along side him in the backfield, will cause many problems for opposing defenses. McNabb himself is an athlete, and would be perfectly capable of running down a Vick pass, or if he does not want to pass, Vick can just take the ball and run it, or just simply be used as a decoy.

Secondly, Vick serves as plan B. Well all know how injury prone McNabb is. After seeing Kolb's performance last season, it's very likely the Eagles were just looking for some more insurance incase of another McNabb injury...

Lastly, the city of Philadelphia can handle the controversy. It's obvious that PETA will want to protest, but after booing Santa Claus, do you really think the city of brotherly love is going to want to hear any of it. PETA will be lucky to make it out alive if they try and let Philly know how they feel about Vick.

All in all, it's a good deal on both sides. Pending Godell's official reinstatement for Vick, he could have an immediate impact this season. The Eagles are paying him next to nothing this year, and have the option to give him a bigger contract next year if they decided to bring him back. For Vick, just getting onto an NFL team is a good deal for him, maybe he has learned his lesson. He should be thankful just to have a second chance.

Eli Manning is one rich man

Eli Manning is nearly a 100 million dollar man, after agreeing to a new six year, 97.5 million dollar contract extension with the New York Giants on Wednesday making him among the highest paid players in the NFL.

Manning is guaranteed 35 million dollars under the new deal, and will remain with the Giants through the 2015 season. He will be racking in $15.285 million annually making him the 3rd highest player per year, only behind Carson Palmer ($16.116 million annually) and Julius Peppers ($16.683 million annually).

First off I would like to state I am a Giants fan, and a big Eli Manning fan. This summer I am working at Giants training camp and get to be up close with Eli daily. Now back to the contract, Manning is a franchise quarterback, a gamer and a good teammate, but he should not be one of the highest players in the game.

Yes he won a Superbowl and hes broken many Giants franchise records. However, he only has a 76.1 passer rating for his career and already 74 interceptions, just 24 less than his 98 TD's. In comparison to his brother Peyton (making $14 million annually) who in a longer career, has a td:int ratio of 333-165 and a 94.7 quarterback rating.

When looking at Eli's career he has always had the potential, and even at the level he is at now deserves to be in the top 10 quarterbacks in this league. However, when thinking of Eli Manning, one thing that is always questioned is his ability to be a leader. He has a very mellow personality, and does not seem to be very outspoken.

Though, one thing no one will ever forget is the run he lead the Giants on in 2007, especially the very last drive of Superbowl 42. This is where the leadership we were all looking for finally shined. The difference is during that run he had Plaxico Burress.

Without Plaxico last year, Eli completely faltered along with the New York Giants. Without Plaxico the Giants went 2-4 (10-1 to that point), including two loses, one in the playoffs, against the Eagles. Manning completed just one touchdown pass to a wide receiver in that entire span of time.

This year will be the true test for the much richer Manning. He must prove hes worth the contract, so many think he is not. He will have to put the team on his shoulders with no top notch receivers. It's his time to prove to all of his,he is worth his contract.

All in all, Eli Manning was over payed yes, but the truth is if you had to pick a quarterback to start your franchise with, Eli would be one of the first picks. He has the talent to be at the level his contract puts him at, it's just a matter of if he can live up to his potential.

MLB Trade Deadline

The MLB trade deadline has come and gone, and many deals have been put together. I will go through and evaluate all the major deals that have happened in the last week or so.

Athletics trade OF Matt Holliday to Cardinals for minor leaguers, 3B Brett Wallace, OF Shane Patterson and RHP Clayton Mortensen

You have to love this trade for the Cards. Since coming to the Cardinals a week ago Holliday is batting nearly .400. Batting behind Puljols is every hitters dream, Holliday should fit into his new role perfectly. The 3-4-5 of Ludwick, Puljols and Holliday is by far the best in baseball. St.Louis has quite the team right now, they may be able to make a run. As for the A's its a deal that needed to be done, they got four quality prospects for a player that visibly did not want to be an Athletic, Billy Beane once again worked his magic here.

Indians trade 1B Ryan Garko to Giants for minor league LHP Scott Barnes

Great deal for the Giants, they needed a bat to complement Sandoval and Molina, Garko brings that bat to the middle of the Giants lineup.

Pirates trade RHP Ian Snell and SS Jack Wilson to Mariners for IF Ronny Cedeno and minor leaguers C/1B Jeff Clement, RHP Ben Pribanic, RHP Brett Lorin and RHP Nathan Adcock

Well.... this is the start to a new era for the Pittsburgh Pirates. After already giving up McLouth and Morgan then Pirates continued the fire sale by getting rid of Snell and Wilson... This team has brought in 21 prospects in total at the end of the deadline, it will be at least five years before we still this team can be competitive. I do give them credit for going all out, nothing is worse then only selling certain parts, the Pirates have not made the playoffs in 16 years, they might as well try and start over. Wilson's frustrations are finally over.

Indians trade LHP Cliff Lee and OF Ben Francisco to Phillies for minor league RHP Jason Knapp, RHP Carlos Carrasco, SS Jason Donald and C Lou Marson
One of this year's best deals so far. After hearing for the past month about the Phillies getting Roy Halladay they went out and got another Cy Young winner (at a much lower price). The Phillies not only got Francisco in return also, but they held onto both Kyle Drabeck and J.A. Happ, both of which Toronto was asking for in the Halladay deal. It almost seems as if the Phillies did a smokescreen sending out rumors they were going after Halladay, which made the Indians lower the price on Lee. This makes the Philles a legit World Series contender this year.

Pirates trade 2B Freddy Sanchez to Giants for minor league RHP Tim Alderson
Another Pirate deal, this one most likely the hardest for fans to swallow. Sanchez was the franchise player, fans loved him, he was the all-star. They get a prospect in Alderson who may be one of the best pitching prospects in the game right now. It just seems hard for me to understand why you would deal an all-star player, beloved by the fans, straight up for an unproven prospect.

Orioles trade LHP George Sherrill to Dodgers for minor league 3B Josh Bell and RHP Steve Johnson

Boy are the Dodgers good. This trade makes them that much better, the 8th-9th punch of Sherrill and Broxton is exactly what the Dodgers were looking for. The Dodgers, who currently have the best record in the bigs, were looking World Series bound even before this deal, this solidifies it that much more.

Mariners trade LHP Jarrod Washburn to Tigers for LHP Luke French and minor league LHP Mauricio Robles

This was a huge deal for the Tigers. Washburn was the missing piece to the Tiger rotation. Now with veterans Verlander, Washburn, Jackson, making up the front end of the rotation and the prospects Porcello and Galarraga bringing up the back end, you cant ask for a much better rotation. All 3 front end pitchers are all-stars followed by a guy in Porcello who may be rookie of the year in the AL and Galarraga who is arguably one of the best number 5's in the league.

Athletics trade SS Orlando Cabrera to the Twins for minor league SS Tyler Ladendorf

The Twins are very much in the AL Central race, and this is the exact deal they needed. Cabrera has been on fire in the month of July, batting .354 since June 14th, the Twins have struggled all year between Punto and Harris at short. Cabrera brings much needed middle infield help, to a team that could very well make a run.

Pirates trade LHP John Grabow and LHP Tom Gorzelanny to Cubs for RHP Kevin Hart, RHP Jose Ascanio and minor league IF Josh Harrison

More unloading for the Pirates.... I thought both Gorezlanny and Grabow were young and had a lot of potential, but the Pirates went for the quantity here.

Indians trade C/1B Victor Martinez to Red Sox for RHP Justin Masterson, minor league LHP Nick Hagadone and a player to be named later.

This to me seems like the biggest deal of them all, the slumping Red Sox were in need of some help. Martinez is a veteran with a big bat, he is also rumored to be one of the best teammates you could ask for according to his Indian teammates. Not only will Martinez bring his big bat to the middle of the Sox lineup, but he will give both Ortiz and Varitek days off at DH and Catcher. Masterson was a big name to give up and the Indians came away with some good prospects, but the Red Sox came away with a game changing player. VMart seemed pretty emotional leaving the only team he has ever been with, but that will all change once he gets a taste of bean town. It had to be hard for the Indians to get rid of the face of their franchise (especially the day before his bobble head night), it's not a good time to be an Indian fan right now.
Red Sox trade 1B Adam LaRoche to Braves for 1B Casey Kotchman

This trade does not make a whole lot of sense. LaRoche and Kotchman both seem like the same player, at the same level. After getting VMart the Red Sox I guess just tried to get the best possible player they could for LaRoche. Maybe they thought Kotchman would handle coming off the bench better? For the Braves, this trade makes sense, they are looking for power and Kotchman's 6 homers were not cutting it. Home sweet home for LaRoche, who had a long stint as a Brave before signing with the Pirates, I wonder how he is feeling getting traded twice in one week?

Blue Jays trade 3B Scott Rolen to Reds for 3B Edwin Encarnacion, RHP Josh Roenicke and minor league RHP Zach Stewart

Good for the Reds! Just a little word of advice, you don't have to sell if your not a winning team. The Reds, whole still have an outside chance at making a playoff run, bring in a veteran player with playoff experience, who can mentor the young guys and bring on a leadership role around the dugout. Rolen's .320 average and 43 rbi's this season is not too shabby either. For the Blue Jays, Encarnacion is a kid with a lot of talent, that he is wasting away, he should be a good project for them. The only thing that goes against the Reds in this trade is having to pay Rolen his 11 million dollar contract.

Reds trade UT Jerry Hairston Jr. to Yankees for minor league C Chase Weems.
Great small deal for the Yanks. Hairston can play any position but pitcher, catcher and first base. He will be a great UTL player, and for a team that spent half a billion dollars this off-season, this is a great money saving move for them. The Yanks gave up almost nothing for him, he is the kind of player that helps win championships, he will be utilized in many ways.
Nationals trade LHP Joe Beimel to Rockies for minor league RHP Ryan Mattheus and RHP Robinson Fabian

Great deal for the Rockies. Beimel was one of the best left handed relievers in free agency this off-season, how he landed on the Nats in February I don't know. The Rockies are in the middle of a tight wildcard race in the National League and Beimel is the kind of player they needed to help build a strong bullpen.

Nationals trade 1B Nick Johnson to Marlins for minor league RHP Aaron Thompson
I commend the Marlins for not giving up West or Miller. They held onto their big prospects while at the same time bringing in a guy like Johnson, who has a .408 OBP this season, and is another player who can get on base for Hanley. He does not have a ton of power (6 homers this year), but he should get a ton of base hits and help produce runs. This was a great move for the Marlins.

Padres trade RHP Jake Peavy to the White Sox for LHP Clayton Richard, LHP Aaron Poreda and minor league RHP Dexter Carter and RHP Adam Russell
Well this one was a shocker. Peavy is heading to the White Sox for the second time this year, but this time he has accepted the deal. Most likely Peavy agreed to move now because of the situation, the Padres are selling, and no where close to a championship, as oppose to back in May when the trade was first proposed when the Padres had a better record the White Sox did. This is a huge move for the White Sox, who were in need of a big time pitcher. Peavy should be back in August, and may help them make a run at the playoffs this year, if not he will be a franchise player for years to come. On the other side, it's a rough time to be a Padre fan, they did not get the type of value here that Peavy was worth.

This is all the major deals, I would just like to talk about one more deal that fell apart at the last second.

Via Twitter, Jon Heyman of SI.com, reported that the Padres almost dealt Heath Bell and Adrian Gonzalez to the Dodgers for James Loney, Russell Martin, Blake DeWitt, James McDonald and Ivan Dejesus.

WOW!! This would of been quite the blockbuster. You have to wonder what was going through the Dodgers mind on this one, if they were truly thinking about doing it. First off they already have a closer and setup man, why would they need Heath Bell? Next they were going to give away two of the better young players in the game for one player at a little higher of a level in Adrian Gonzalez. James Loney and Russell Martin alone are worth more than Gonzo and Bell are in my opinion. Beyond that just to make this deal even more lopsided to the Padres, Dewitt and McDonald are two of the better prospects in the Dodgers system, DeWitt is already MLB ready, starting much of last season for the team. I would hope that the Dodgers are the reason this deal did not go through, because the Padres would of got a huge steal.

No comeback for Favre

Since he announced his retirement for the second time, Brett Favre has been much of the talk of the NFL Off-Season. Now, after telling the Vikings he will not be making a comeback, we can finally put the Favre talks to rest (for now).

The soon to be 40, Favre alerted the Vikings on Tuesday that he would remained retired. His main reason was not because of his motivation to play, that was there, it was the fact that he did not think his body could make it through an entire grueling season.

Now that in itself seems like Favre is setting himself up to not completely call it quits. We all know he is known for changing his mind. All Favre said is he cant make it a full 16 games, what would be interesting is if the Vikings are looking at 4-4 or 3-5 after 8 games and are in need of quarterback, well he get the "itch" again?

For now, Favre is making the right decision in the eyes of many including myself. His legacy in Green Bay, is something that no other player in a Packer uniform may ever compare with. He was loved in Green Bay, and by most he still is, and will continue to be.

If he had went to the Vikings, for the sheer reasons in many peoples mind of getting back at the Packers, he might as well have kissed his entire Packer fan base goodbye. For those who lived in a box last year, Favre decided to come back after announcing his first retirement, only to find out the Packers had moved on and given his job to Aaron Rodgers, and had no intentions of giving him back.

Favre now can take a vacation, and enjoy what it's like to not have a sore shoulder. He has truly been an incredible quarterback and while he wont be on the field this season, his legacy and longest consecutive game record will carry on.

Ortiz and Manny join A-Rod on "The List"

David Ortiz and Manny Ramirez joined Alex Rodriquez on the list of 104 players that tested positive on a random drug test in 2003.

The so-called anonymous test that involved a sample of just over 1000 players, was suppose to be confidential with no names attached or recorded. Well, it was not anonymous and names were recorded, as shown by the reports of Manny, A-Rod and Big Papi.

Now first off I would like to state that I am completely against any type of performance enhancing drug, you can see more of my opinion on that in my blog a few weeks ago on Manny.

What I want to talk about in this blog, is this "list" that is starting to leak out to the public. I have multiple problems with this list, and it's really starting to frustrate me, especially after the reports we have just heard today.

First off, whoever decided to leak these names must have a vendetta against Alex Rodriquez, to leak his name out solely was just wrong. Now, Ortiz will have to deal with the media and angry fans, but nothing like what A-Rod had to deal with. It's almost old news at this point, fans are going to say "Ortiz got caught? Oh well A-Rod did it, everyone must of." Ortiz is going to get off much easier then A-Rod did and i think that's just wrong. You have to look at it from a marketing stand-point, who is going to get more media attention and boost ratings higher, A-Rod on steroids or Ortiz? I will take A-Rod in that argument.

Staying on the topic of names being released, why cant they just release all of them! I don't understand why few names are being leaked out. Are they trying to make it more suspenseful? I know some players are more popular than others, but I don't care if the guy never made it out of Single A, everyone needs to be responsible for what they were caught doing, not just the A-Rod's and Big Papi's of the league.

The thing that bothers me the most about this entire situation, is why were the names ever recorded in the first place? According to SI.com, the 2003 drug test, was an experiment to see how many players were under the influence of performance enhancers. The idea of the test was that if more than 5 % of the sample tested positive, MLB would install a new policy, with punishments for P.E.D. users. So did MLB lie to players when they told them no names would be released? Why is no one talking about the fact that the players were basically tricked into thinking they had nothing to worry, so MLB could see what players were taking performance enhancers. Of course no player is going to make a comment on that, because they all know what they did was wrong and they have no defense, but let me do the defending for them in this blog, what Major League Baseball did was wrong.

Once this list comes out the other problem I see is players not being on the list, who took P.E.D.'s in 2003. The random testing was exactly that, IT WAS RANDOM!!!. Only 1000 players were tested, well under the total amount in the league.

Overall, shame on Ortiz, shame on A-Rod, Shame on Manny, they deserve everything that comes to them, but mostly shame on Major League Baseball for letting this list be recorded in the first place.

10 burning MLB questions heading into the trade deadline...

1. Will we see another surge from the Tampa Bay Rays?

I don't think so. Though the Rays have been hot as of late, the struggles of Scott Kazmir, B.J. Upton and an unreliable bullpen, seem like to much to overcome this season. On top of that the Yankees are a much better team this year, and although Boston is slumping I still think they have an edge over Tampa. The Rays will be most likely the best 3rd place team in baseball.

2. Will Roy Halladay remain a Blue Jay?

Every indication right now is pointing to him either staying with Toronto or going to Philly. Though the Blue Jays would be smart to deal him, they are just asking for way to much. They want 4 top prospects in return for a guy, who while still on top of his game is ageing and up for a new contract in 2010. I think he will stay put, unless the asking price goes down.

3. Does Matt Holliday make St.Louis the team to beat in the NL Central?

I believe so yes. If Chris Carpenter can stay heathly and at ace status, and the rest of the starters and bullpen remain consistant like they have, I could see the Cardinals even winning the entire National League. The 3-4-5 of Ludwick, Puljols and Holliday is hands down the best in baseball. Nothing is better then having Albert Puljols batting in front of you, expect great things from Holliday the rest of the season.

4.Will the Mets turn it around this season?

No.... Between injuries, lack of motivation and lack of leadership, this Mets team will be lucky to place any better then 4th in the division. Playoffs are a long way away from the team with the second highest payroll in baseball. Being a Mets fan, before this season is over I will blog exactly how the Mets can regain championship form.

5. Are the Rockies the real deal?

I believe so. If you look at my blog from earlier this season when the Rockies originally began to surge, they have done exactly what I said they needed to. The top end of the rotation in Cook, Marquis and De La Rosa have been great and who would be expecting the numbers we have seen out of Brad Hawpe and Todd Helton? Everything is working for the Rockies right now and they may just sneak their way back into the playoffs. Hats off to Jim Tracy with what he has done for this team.

6.What team is destined to make a run?

It has to be the Cubs... They have simply too much talent to struggle as much as they did the first half of the season. You don't go from 8 All-Stars and being one game away from the World Series, to a sub .500 team with one all-star in Todd Lilly, who only went because one player has to go from every team. With names like Alfonso Soriano, Carlos Zambrano, Aramis Ramirez, Rich Harden, Derek Lee, Milton Bradley and more, the Cubs have the talent to be one of the best teams in the national league. Don't be surprised to see them to go on some big streaks to end the season.

7.Who is this years long-shot to win the World Series?

After picking up Matt Holiday I really think St.Louis is the long-shot. If Chris Carpenter can stay healthy he is one of the best aces in this league. He has been pitching great this year with a sub 3 era and looks to be back in old form. Ryan Franklin has also been almost unhittable at the closer role and even earned himself an all-star spot this season. Yes the bottom of the lineup is a bit weak, but the power in middle of this lineup makes up for it. I also like their rotation from front to back, though no one is really that over-powering, everyone in the rotation is capable of winning games.

8. Texas, San Francisco, both or neither?

Ill take Texas. This is my biggest upset... The injuries Boston are currently facing and the struggles of players like David Ortiz and J.D. Drew worry me with the Red Sox. While Beckett and Lester have put together great seasons, Wakefield just went down, who knows what is going to happen with Dice-K and the Penny/Smoltz combination is up in the air every start. I could be totally off on this one and Boston may just be in a slump, but what I have seen from them lately make me feel like a big dropoff is coming. As for Texas, they have put together names like Scott Feldman and Kevin Millwood, to come up with a very admirable rotation. We all know how well this team hits and I think they could steal the last playoff spot away from the Sox. As for San Francisco, Pablo Sandoval has been terrific but I still think they are very weak as a hitting team. They have one of the best pitching rotations in the bigs, but I think their lack of hitting will put them just short of the playoffs.



9. Who are your early playoff predictions?

NL West- LA Dodgers

NL Central- St. Louis

NL East- Phillies

Wildcard- Colorado (it will be very close with San Francisco)

AL West- LA Angels

AL Central- Detroit

AL East- Yankees

Wildcard- Rangers



10. Who is your early picks for the World Series?

It has to be the Dodgers and Yankees with the Dodgers winning in 6. The Dodgers line-up has been unreal this year and they currently are sitting at 26 games over .500. Expect Manny and crew to lead the team to the promise land as long as all goes right. Something seems different about the Yanks this year... Every year I always say the Yankees are all about business, and while baseball is a game of numbers, team chemistry is also huge, something the Yankees have been lacking. If you have watch them play at all this season something looks different, they look like they are having fun, they are flowing well as a team and you may finally see them get back to the world-series this year.

Beckham's time in America needs to be over.

When Americans hear the word football, we automatically think of cracking open a beer on Sundays and enjoying the hard hitting sport we all know and love. However, if you say the word football anywhere else in the country, they will pronounce it futbol, and think of the finesse game we call soccer. David Beckham's goal was to change this, something he is far from doing.

When Beckham arrived to America and put the L.A. Galaxy jersey on, it brought new blood to a sport that couldn't buy itself fans. 2 and 1/2 years later, the Galaxy have yet to make the playoffs since his arrival, and Beckham is already looking to get out of America.

Not only has Beckham done nothing to help the sport that so desperately needed him, hes tarnished his image, with the few soccer fans he brought into the game. Looking for a way out, Beckham looks to be heading to AC Milan, within the next two years.

This is something that on top of many other things did not get the best reaction from his MVP teammate Landon Donavon. He slammed him in the book "The Beckham Experiment", calling him a bad teammate and captain. Stating he did nothing to motivate the team and did not really seem to care about anyone on it.

He may have helped with ticket sales, or maybe even sold more jerseys then any other American soccer player, but when you look at the pecking order of sports, soccer is still close to the bottom, and it will remain there until America can win a World Cup (which is not happening anytime soon). Beckham has brought entertainment to the sport, but most people watching aren't looking for a good soccer game, they are watching for Beckham's next move.

Recently, after his first game of the season, coincidentally in a practice match against AC Milan, Beckham got into it with an angry fan, after getting booed by his home crowd. Beckham called out the fan telling him to "come on down here" along with a few other words, so the drunk fan did and security broke it up, but not before the damage was done, with the home-crowd watching Beckham foolishly call out a fan. Check it out here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O-c720nNtgI

This shouldn't surprise anyone, knowing what we knew about Beckham he has always been a pre-madonna. Marrying an ex-spice girl and hanging with Tom Cruise, are not the criteria you look for in a professional athlete.

Even though the Beckham experiment is not over, the idea of him changing the image of American soccer has so far been a complete and udder failure. Beckham might as well leave for AC Milan now (he would if it was not for his contractual agreement), his attempt at helping American soccer's image has done nothing but turn American soccer into a circus.

Why Michael Vick should be reinstated...

After serving 23 months on a dogfighting conviction, and the last 60 days in home confinement, Michael Vick is a free man, besides in the eyes of Rodger Godell that is.

Godell still has yet to make a decision on if the 3-time pro-bowler will be reinstated to the NFL this season, or ever.

While PETA may think differently, I believe Vick has served his time and Godell should make an exception to his very strict suspension policies. While most players Godell suspends go to "NFL Jail", Vick served the real thing.

Now don't get me wrong, what Vick did was wrong, no one can make an argument about that, dogfighting is a terrible thing. However, Vick has served his time and lost his money, Vick has paid his debt to society. Suspending Vick from the NFL would add to a punishment that while deserved, has been been paid for.

Vick may never be a star again, 23 months removed from the league means a huge uphill battle for the former superstar. He will most likely come back as a back-up and be used for the wildcat formation.

As for PETA, they can petition all they want. Good luck getting NFL fans to listen to your protests, they wont want to hear it. Can you imagine them trying to protest in a city like Philadelphia, Pittsburgh or New York, not saying Vick will go to those places, but NFL fans in any city will be sure to let PETA know their feelings about them being there.

All in all, Vick got in with the wrong people and he served his time. Now in major debt, losing 23 months of his life, to me it seems like Vick has done his time.

Lebron's future

With 1 year remaining on the contract of arguably the best player in the NBA, it's time talk about what Lebron James will do after this season.

James signed a 100 million dollar endorsement deal with Nike straight out of High School, and has lived up to the hype surrounded by him, since he came into the league.

After being selected number 1 in the 2003 NBA Draft by the Cleveland Cavaliers, Lebron has become a superstar, averaging 27.5 points, seven rebounds and 6.6 assists in his 6-year career. He is a 5-time all-star, including two Olympic appearances, and has already lead the Cavs to the NBA Finals, in a losing effort to the Spurs in 2007. Since 2005, James has been selected to the All-Star and All-NBA teams every season. He was elected the NBA Most Valuable Player for the 2008-09 season.

With such an impressive resume, and still just 24-years old, Lebron will be a major free-agent, arguably the most desirable free-agent ever.

So what can the Cavs do to make sure they don't lose him?

Well it will be very hard to hold onto to "King James", especially with what other teams will be offering him. Allegedly the Knicks are already freeing up cap room to prepare to offer him a huge deal next season.

One thing Lebron wants more then anything is to win a championship. After averaging nearly half the Cavs points in the playoffs last season, it's quite obvious that the Cavs need to give their superstar some help.

Shaq was a good start for sure. Not only does he bring in a big presence under the hoop, but he also will take a bit of the media attention off of Lebron. While Lebron loves the spotlight, it will be a good thing for him to have some of the media pressure taken off of him, which is exactly what Shaq will do.

However, Shaq is 37-years-old and well past his prime. The Cavs need to bring in another big free-agent, or make a trade, to help out Lebron. If the Cavs do not give him the help he deserves, you may see him leave.

Lebron may also want to play for a bigger market. Lets face it, while Cleveland basically idolizes Lebron, they are still a smaller market team, something superstars like Lebron may not like. Playing in a place like New York, would make Lebron even bigger than he is now.

The last and most obvious reason Lebron may leave Cleveland is for money. Do the Cavs really have enough dough to dish out to keep him there? I think they will do everything in their power to make sure they do, but with teams like the Knicks already preparing to offer him a deal, who knows what type of money he could be seeing, maybe an A-Rod type contract?

Overall, I think it's still very up in the air.... In his heart he probably wants to stay with Cleveland his entire career, but with lots of temptations out their for him, the Cavs would be smart to try and sign him before next season is over, though that may be impossible.

McNair's legacy has been tarnished forever...

For those of you who have lived in a box for the last week, Steve McNair was shot and killed by his 20-year-old girlfriend Sahel Kazemi, while sleeping on his sofa.

Along with financial concerns, Kazemi allegedly killed McNair (a married man with 4 kids), then herself because McNair was in a relationship with a 3rd women.

While this tragedy has grabbed the hearts of many football fans, coaches and players, it also gives us an entirely new image of McNair. While he was in the league, McNair was always known as a leader, hard-working player and an all around great guy. He fought through every injury always giving everything he had. Besides being the Titans all-time leading passer, he led the Titans to the playoffs four times, including one Super Bowl appearance.

Now, the once publicly known family man, with have an asterisk next to his name. Nothing will ever take away his legacy on the field, but to many he will always be remembered as the guy who cheated on his wife and paid for it. People will always wonder why he would ever do this wife, especially with a crazy women half his age.

You have to feel for his family right now, his wife has to be mixed with many emotions. I find it hard to believe she had no idea what was going on, but you never know. She still lost a husband and her children lost a father.

In the big picture, as fans gather for his funeral showing their support, the other side of McNair will be in the back of their mind. A side that he will always be remembered for.

MLB All-Star teams announced

MLB has announced the rosters of the All-Star teams... I will go over each section (NL and AL) and give my evaluation.

STARTERS
POS PLAYER TEAM
C Yadier Molina St. Louis
1B Albert Pujols St. Louis
2B Chase Utley Philadelphia
3B David Wright NY Mets
SS Hanley Ramirez Florida
OF Ryan Braun Milwaukee
OF Raul Ibanez Philadelphia
OF Carlos Beltran NY Mets

The fans did a pretty good job here. Although Ibanez and Beltran are hurt they both are worthy selections considering their numbers this season. The only thing I would change is Yadier Molina for Brian McCann. After starting the year batting under .200 due to problems with his sight, he got his vision repaired and has batted .330 since. He also has 8 homers and 33 RBI's, as oppose to Molina's 5 homers and 27 rbi's, and that's with missed time... Pujols is having an unreal year with 33 homers and over 80 rbi's already, not to mention a .330 average. Wright, Utley, Braun and Ramirez are also the best at their respective positions.

PITCHERS
POS PLAYER TEAM
RHP Heath Bell San Diego
RHP Chad Billingsley LA Dodgers
RHP Jonathan Broxton LA Dodgers
RHP Matt Cain San Francisco
RHP Francisco Cordero Cincinnati
RHP Ryan Franklin St. Louis
RHP Dan Haren Arizona
RHP Josh Johnson Florida
LHP Ted Lilly Chicago
RHP Tim Lincecum San Francisco
RHP Jason Marquis Colorado
RHP Francisco Rodriguez NY Mets
LHP Johan Santana NY Mets

Pretty good selections here... Marquis doesn't really deserve to be there over guys like Cueto and Gallardo. I know that Marquis is the NL leader in wins, but Cueto and Gallardo are beating him in every other category. On the season Cueto was 8-4 with a 2.69 ERA (4th best in the NL) and 78 k's, when the teams were announced. Gallardo is just as impressive on the season with an 8-6 record, 2.95 era and 120 k's.

Just on a side note it's pathetic that all Chicago sent to the all-star game this year was Ted Lilly. They had 8 players selected last season.... If things don't change, this could be it for Piniella.

Reserves
Pos Player B/T
C Brian McCann, ATL L/R
1B Prince Fielder, MIL L/R
1B Adrian Gonzalez, SD L/L
1B Ryan Howard, PHI L/L
2B Orlando Hudson, LAD S/R
2B Freddy Sanchez, PIT R/R
SS Miguel Tejada, HOU R/R
3B Ryan Zimmerman, WSH R/R
OF Brad Hawpe, COL L/L
OF Hunter Pence, HOU R/R
OF Justin Upton, ARI R/R
OF Shane Victorino, PHI¹ S/R

I agree with almost every pick here.... Pablo Sandoval is the only player being snubbed. The guy is batting .326 on the season with 13 HR's, 48 RBI's and 38 runs. He could have replaced either Hudson or Howard on the reserves...

Starters
Pos Player B/T
C Joe Mauer, MIN L/R
1B Mark Teixeira, NYY S/R
2B Dustin Pedroia, BOS R/R
SS Derek Jeter, NYY R/R
3B Evan Longoria, TB R/R
OF Jason Bay, BOS R/R
OF Ichiro Suzuki, SEA L/R
OF Josh Hamilton, TEX L/L

The fans messed up big time here... It's the same issue we see every season, fans vote based on fanhood and name recognition over the best players. It's always the same two teams that run the American League team and that's the Yankees and Red Sox. Starting at 1st base, Teixeira should not be starting over Justin Morneau. Lets break down the numbers... on the season Tex is batting .281 on the season with 21 homers, (most at the Yankees new wiffle ball stadium), and 63 rbi's... Morneau has just about the same in homers and rbi's with 21 homers and 69 rbi's, but he is also hitting for average, currently he has a .313 average. Now lets go to 2nd... Reigning MVP Dustin Pedroia beat out Aaron Hill to start at 2nd base. This has to be one of the biggest snubs this year. All we have to do is simply look at the numbers. Pedroia is not having a bad season at all batting .301 with 4 homers and 38 rbi's, however Aaron Hill is having a career year with a .298 average, 20 homers and 59 rbi's. Pedroia's numbers don't even come close to Hill's, but look at the markets... Pedroia plays for the Red Sox while Hill plays for small market Toronto, fans unfortunately will never look at a ballet objectively and it's a major issue. Lastly Josh Hamilton's big performance in the home run derby last season obviously was the reasoning behind his All-Star appearance this year. Hamilton who has been hurt for a portion of the season is batting .256, with just 6 homers and 24 rbi's. Torii Hunter is the worthy candidate here... He is batting .305 with 17 homers and 65 rbi's, there is absolutely no reason for Hamilton to be in ahead of him. The only other issue I see is possibly the perennial All-Star Jeter... Jason Bartlett of the Rays is batting .356 on the season and has arguably had a better season then Jeter, it's not a terrible pick though.

Pitchers
Pos Player B/T
P Andrew Bailey, OAK R/R
P Josh Beckett, BOS R/R
P Mark Buehrle, CWS L/L
P Brian Fuentes, LAA L/L
P Zack Greinke, KC R/R
P Roy Halladay, TOR R/R
P Felix Hernandez, SEA R/R
P Edwin Jackson, DET R/R
P Joe Nathan, MIN R/R
P Jonathan Papelbon, BOS R/R
P Mariano Rivera, NYY R/R
P Justin Verlander, DET R/R
P Tim Wakefield, BOS R/R
This is a stacked roster.... Wakefield is the only weak spot. However, after 17 seasons and no All-Star appearances the knuckle baller is a well deserving candidate. Kevin Millwood would of been a bit more deserving then Wakefield or Jered Weaver who is 9-3 with a 3.15 era and 95 k's.

Reserves
Pos Player B/T
C Victor Martinez, CLE S/R
1B Justin Morneau, MIN L/R
1B Kevin Youkilis, BOS R/R
2B Aaron Hill, TOR R/R
SS Jason Bartlett, TB R/R
3B Brandon Inge, DET¹ R/R
3B Michael Young, TEX R/R
OF Carl Crawford, TB L/L
OF Curtis Granderson, DET L/R
OF Torii Hunter, LAA R/R
OF Adam Jones, BAL R/R
OF Ben Zobrist, TB S/R
I agree with every poistion here...


When it comes down to it, my opinion is the fans should not be able to vote. The only reason I say this is because the game really does count for something. Having home field advantage for the World Series is a huge deal!!! Game 7 at home could mean everything if it's a tight series. So in my opinion only non-biased, objective people should be voting. This would be coaches, players and experts.

Federer is a true champion

Roger Federer won his 15th Grand Slam victory to surpass Pete Sampras’ career mark, after taking down Andy Roddick in a marathon five-sets.

Sampras traveled from California to watch the match. He had this to say in an interview with yahoo.com. “I have to give it to him,” he said. “He’s won all the majors. He’s won 15 now. He’s going to win a few more here. So in my book he is (the greatest).”

It took 4 hours, 16 minutes, five sets and 77 games for Federer to overtake Samprus for the record Sunday at Wimbledon. Federer served a career-high 50 aces and overcame the resilient Roddick 5-7, 7-6 (6), 7-6 (5), 3-6, 16-14— the longest match and longest fifth set in Grand Slam final history in terms of games.

When thinking of the best athlete in the world, Federer is right at the top. He is truly an amazing player, on and off the court. His work ethic, competitive and positive attitudes, make it almost impossible to not root for him.

Modest about his accomplishments, Federer had this to say about Samprus.

“In a way, I still feel like we share (the record) because he was such a wonderful champion,” he said. “He still has one up against me here at Wimbledon. It’s nice that he shows appreciation for what I’m doing.”

Still just 27, Federer still has some of his career left ahead of him. He will set the mark for tennis players and sports players in general, for years to come. By the time his career is over, I wouldn't be surprised if he wins 19, even 20 Grand Slams.

He is the type of player that you don't see many times throughout your life. Though Nadal and even Roddick, can give him a run for his money, in my eyes Federer is the uncontested best player in the world, and most likely will be until he retires.

Steriods and Manny

As Manny Ramirez stepped into the batters box for the first time since his 50-game suspension. He stood in front of a sold out crowd at Petco Park, greeted with both boos and cheers.

Though Ramirez failed to get the ball out of the infield in four plate appearances, it did not seem to matter to Dodgers fans, they had their star back and came to Petco decked out in blue and white, ready to bleed out the boo's of Padres fans.

Now that Manny has done his time for cheating the game, just like A-Rod, it will be forgotten and fans will move on. The fans seem to see steroids on a different level then the players, coaches and media do. After watching some of the best players in the game be caught (Manny, Arod, Bonds, Clemens) most fans have the mind-set of thinking most players of this day and age did it at some point, so we might as well just accept it. It's something the game of baseball should not be proud of, but something you cant be the fans for thinking.

For players in this day, a different mind-set with similar consequences, is something players must deal with. Steroids, at least at some point were acceptable. After-all to be the best you have to compete with the best, and if the best are taking steroids, you better be taking them to. Now with strict drug testing, we can only hope players are getting the picture.

Manny will most likely lead L.A., who has a 7.5 game lead in the NL West, to a division title and possibly a world series trip. He is a great hitter, with or without performance enhancers. Fans will grow to love him again, and "Mannywood" will return. Fans always have the "what have you done for me lately mind-set" and Manny is the kind of player that will always deliver. He is a true talent in this league.

One thing fans do seem to be intolerant of is lying. So just a bit of advice to any player out their right now, if you get caught, fess up and we will forgive. Look at Bonds, Clemens, McGuire and Sosa, just to name a few, compared to Manny, A-Rod, Giambi and Pettite. Fans will forgive and forget, as long as you fess up for what you have done.

The bigger issue in this entire situation is the fact that I am even having to blog about one of the best players in the game using performance enhancers. Baseball is Americas past-time and it's reputation has been tarnished by players desire to be the best, and more importantly get the big bucks. What kind of model are we setting to the kids out there, who are young and rising stars? If you look around more and more kids are being caught using steroids, it's a growing problem.

Though baseballs penalty has become much more harsh, it's still a major issue when a player gets cheered after returning from a 50-game suspension for cheating as if it's ok....

Stallworth got away with murder... Literally!!

Like any other criminal, NFL wide receiver Donte Stallworth stood in front of a judge and gave his plead of guilty to DUI manslaughter charges, a crime that serves up to 15 years in prison. However, unlike other criminals Stallworth got off with a light sentence.

In March, Stallworth struck and killed a 59-year-old man with his 2005 Bentley GT. The man, Mario Reyes, was trying to catch a bus to get to work just after 7 a.m. Police later found that Stallworth's blood alcohol content was .126 when the crash occurred, above the legal limit of .08 in the state of Florida.

After accepting a plea deal, Stallworth agreed to plead guilty. As part of the deal, Stallworth agreed to spend just 30 days in prison. Yes that's right, Reyes is gone forever, and Stallworth is spending just 30 days behind bars.

Granted, Stallworth will have to spend two years under house arrest, eight years on probation and will never be allowed to drive again. He has also been suspended indefinitely from the NFL by Rodger Godell, with a doubtful future in the sport. But he still is only spending 30 days in jail, which begs the question, is money really worth letting someone get away with the killing of an innocent life?

The Reyes family sure believes so. They reached a financial agreement with Stallworth, allowing him to get away with virtually no jail time, in my opinion selling out Reyes.

It just doesn't seem right to me. If this had happened to anyone in my family, I would make sure Stallworth would serve the maximum jail time possible. No money can take away the emotional pain you get from losing a loved one.Shame on his family for letting Stallworth get away with this.

This is just one situation of many, where a celebrity is higher then the law. It dosent seem right, they should be held to the same standards as any other citizen of this country. For Stallworth to avoid jail time, is a slap in the face to our judicial system.

The one person who does deserve some credit, is Rodger Godell. He seems to be the only one that realizes how serious this situation is. Stallworth will most likely never play a down in the NFL again, due to Godell's indefinate suspension.

"The conduct reflected in your guilty plea resulted in the tragic loss of life and was inexcusable," Goodell wrote Stallworth, according to the league's announcement.

New reports have come out that Stallworth also was under the influence of marijuana. That only furthers the extent of how serious this really was. Stallworth was at no state to be anywhere near a moving vehicle.

As Stallworth gets away with something no normal citizen could, he will be sitting on his living room couch, hopefully remorsefull, but thinking thank God I have money.

NBA Draft Overview

The NBA Draft took place Thursday, and many teams came out winners, while others were not so fortunate.

Here is my analysis and letter grade for each team on draft day.

Atlanta Hawks
Picks: (19th) Jeff Teague, (49th) Sergiy Gladyr
Analysis: Teague is a great fit for a team that needs a point-scorer to replace Mike Bibby. Teague should have an immediate impact for the Hawks. They stretched a bit for Gladyr.
Grade: B+

Boston Celtics
Pick: (58th) Lester Hudson
Analysis: Hudson was a good value pick this late in the draft, however the Celtics didn't have much to work with having the third to last pick as their only draft pick.
Grade: C

Charlotte Bobcats
Picks: (12th) Gerald Henderson, (40th) Derrick Brown
Analysis: Gerald Henderson is an NBA ready player, he should be a franchise player for years to come, he adds the versatility that the Bobcats were looking for. Derrick Brown was also a steal at the 40 spot, he has tremendous potential. They also sold Oklahoma City the rights to the No. 54 pick, Robert Vaden.
Grade: A
Chicago Bulls
Picks: (16th) James Johnson, (26th) Taj Gibson
Analysis: While both were stretches at each position, both could end up being great players. The Bulls needed some big men under the basket, and both players should help.
Grade: B+

Cleveland Cavaliers
Picks: (30th) Christian Eyenga, (46th) Danny Green
Analysis: One of the biggest surprises of the first round came at the end of it, Eyenga received little hype coming into the draft. I don't really understand the pick.... Danny Green was a nice pick late, he could become a great role player.
Grade: D+

Denver Nuggets
Pick: (18th) Ty Lawson
Analysis: Lawson was one of the biggest steals in this draft. Potentially a lottery pick, Lawson slipped to 18 and into the Nuggets lap. The Nuggets sold Houston the rights to the 34th pick, Sergio Llull. They are still in need of another big man to complement Anthony and Billups.
Grade: B+

Dallas Mavericks
Picks: (25th) Rodrique Beaubois (via Oklahoma City), (45th) Nick Calathes (via Minnesota), (56th) Ahmad Nivins (via Portland)
Analysis: Beaubois could end up being a great player, he has the word we all love to use "potential", he is an athletic point-guard who will need to take some time to learn the NBA. I don't see much coming from either Calathes or Nivins.
Grade: C
Detroit Pistons
Picks: (15th) Austin Daye, (35th) DaJuan Summers, (39th) Jonas Jerebko
Analysis: The Pistons made three great picks in the second round in Summers, Jerebko and Chase Budinger. They then traded Budinger, to Houston, which was a silly move. Taking Daye at 15 really makes no sense to me, there was so much better talent left at that point....
Grade: D-

Golden State Warriors
Pick: (7th) Stephen Curry
Analysis: Curry should fit well along side Monta Ellis. The problem with Curry is he struggles big time defensively. With his shooting ability, athleticism and passing abilities he should be a great young talent, just what the Warriors need.
Grade: B+

Houston Rockets
Picks: (32nd) Jermaine Taylor (via Washington), (34th) Sergio Llull (via Denver), (44th) Chase Budinger (via Detroit)
Analysis: The Rockets should of used better management before the draft, coming in with no picks. The front office did however, have an amazing draft day. Having arguably the best 2nd round of any team, the Rockets used great maneuvering tactics to come away with 3 potential NBA ready players.
Grade: A

Indiana Pacers
Picks: (13th) Tyler Hansbrough, (52nd) A.J. Price
Analysis: Hansbrough is a great team player, the kid is the hardest worker you will ever see. However, his size and natural talent will always hold him back. I think he could be an admirable player in the NBA, but at the 13th pick the Pacers could of had a much more NBA ready player. Price will be lucky to make the team...
Grade: D

Los Angeles Clippers
Pick: (1st) Blake Griffin
Analysis: Griffin was the consensus number one. He is the most NBA ready player in this draft. He should have an immediate impact on a team that desperately needs a leader. Griffin may be the franchise player that turns the Clippers around. His dominance in the NCAA has a very good chance of carrying over to the NBA.
Grade: A+

Los Angeles Lakers
Picks: (59th) Chinemelu Enolu
Analysis: The defending champs sold the 29th pick, Toney Douglas, to the Knicks. Then they traded the 42nd pick, Patrick Beverly, to the Heat for a future second- rounder and cash. They really dident upgrade at all with Enolu, ive never been one to like trading for cash....
Grade: D-

Memphis Grizzlies
Picks: (2nd) Hasheem Thabeet, (27th) DeMarre Carroll, (36th) Sam Young
Analysis: Thabeet was a great pick for the Grizzlies. They were in desperation of a presence under the basket and they got their man. Carrol and Young will both compete for playing time and could be good off the bench this season. Grade:
Grade: A-

Miami Heat
Picks: (42nd) Patrick Beverley, (60th) Robert Dozier
Analysis: Neither are flashy picks... The Heat shouldent expect anything special here. They drafted the positions they needed but neither Beverley or Dozier should have a big impact. The Heat should of really tried to trade into the first round.
Grade: C-

Milwaukee Bucks
Picks: (10th) Brandon Jennings, (41st) Jodie Meeks
Analysis: Jennings was a great value pick at 10. He's got the potential to develop into one of the top point guards in the league, his stock was hurt by his decision to skip college and go play in Europe. Meeks was picked more for his name then talent, he was a stretch even at 41.
Grade: B

Minnesota Timberwolves
Picks: (5th) Ricky Rubio (via Washington), (6th) Jonny Flynn, (28th) Wayne Ellington, (47th) Henk Norel
Analysis: The storyline right now is Rubio may go back and play a few more years in Spain. Still at 5, Rubio was a steal. He is only 18-years old and could be a great talent for the next 20 years. While Flynn is small in size, he still has an incredible shot and positive attitude. Along with Ellington, the Timberwolves may have improved their team as much as any other team in this draft. The only thing that was a bit confusing was taking two guards back to back, it should be interesting to see how that plays out.
Grade: A-

New Jersey Nets
Pick: (11th) Terrence Williams
Analysis: For starters, the Vince Carter blockbuster isn't part of this grade. Williams has the potential to be a nice pick, however for a team looking for a shooter, you have to wonder why they didn't take Gerald Henderson.
Grade: C

New Orleans Hornets
Picks: (21st) Darren Collison, (43rd) Marcus Thornton
Analysis: Why draft Collison when he is the same type of player as Chris Paul... That one does not make sense to me. Thornton is a nice shooter and should add some decent depth
Grade: C-

New York Knicks
Pick: (8th) Jordan Hill
Analysis: The Knicks were really hoping to land either Curry or Flynn, and so were their fans, but Hill is a great value pick at 8. The Knicks are in need of help at the forward position. He could end up being a great player for years to come for them.
Grade: A

Oklahoma City Thunder
Picks: (3rd) James Harden, (24th) B.J. Mullens, (54th) Robert Vaden (via Charlotte)
Analysis: The Thunder came into the night with two open spots in their future starting lineup: shooting guard and center. So they filled them. Harden was a bit of a strech at 3 but could be a great asset for the Thunder. B.J. Mullens should also find his way right into the lineup.
Grade: A-

Orlando Magic
Picks: None
Analysis: Although they did not have any picks, getting Vince Carter was well worth it. So although, I cannot grade them on the draft, the move was a great upgrade.
Grade: N/A

Philadelphia 76ers
Pick: (17th) Jrue Holiday
Analysis: Holiday was expected to go much higher then 17. He was a steal at 17, and could help a team desperate for three-point shooting ability. The 76ers walk away with a great pick in Holiday. He has all the tools to be a good guard in the NBA. Hopefully he can put aside his struggles at times with UCLA.
Grade: A-

Phoenix Suns
Picks: (14th) Earl Clark, (48th) Taylor Griffin, (57th) Emir Preldzic
Analysis: The Suns got a nice pick in Clark, many were considering him a top 10 pick. I was scratching my head with the Griffin pick, it must of been purely because of the last name....
Grade: B-

Portland Trail Blazers
Picks: (22nd) Victor Claver (via Dallas), (31st) Jeff Pendergraph (via Sacramento), (33rd) Dante Cunningham, (55th) Patrick Mills
Analysis: All great value picks here... Patrick Mills was an absoulte steal at 55, if it wasent for his injury he would have been a top pick.
Grade: A-

Sacramento Kings
Picks: (4th) Tyreke Evans, (23rd) Omri Casspi, (38th) Jon Brockman (via Portland)
Analysis: Evans at 4 seemed to be a huge stretch, with Flynn and Rubio still on the board. Evans should be an upgrade for a Kings team who needs just about everything. Overall they can expect another last place finsh this year.
Grade: D+

San Antonio Spurs
Picks: (37th) DeJuan Blair, (51st) Jack McClinton, (53rd) Nando De Colo
Analysis: Blair falling to 37 had my jaw dropping, the Spurs got a huge upgrade here, he could start right away. McClinton and De Colo should also both make the team and be a great presense off the bench. The only thing the Spurs were missing was a first rounder.
Grade: A

Toronto Raptors
Pick: (9th) DeMar DeRozan
Analysis: DeRozan seemed to be a strech. This was all about the Raptors looking for the best position player avaiable... He may still be a few years away from being NBA ready.
Grade: B-

Utah Jazz
Picks: (20th) Eric Maynor, (50th) Goran Suton
Analysis: The Jazz failed to address their need for help at forward and took two players with very limited potential. Both will most likely be career bench players.
Grade: C-


Washington Wizards
Picks: None
Analysis: After watching Rubio go in the 5 spot that they traded, they may be regretting that trade... Though Miller and Foye could be nice additions.
Grade: C-

What has gotten into the Colorado Rockies?

A little under three weeks ago, the Colorado Rockies were 13 games under .500 with no consideration of being a contender this season. Since then, the Rockies have won 16 of the past 17 putting themselves back into the playoff mix.

The last time we were talking about the Rockies it was 2007. They had just made their way to the 07 World Series in improbable fashion. Winning 11 of 12 to end the season, the Rockies took the NL Wildcard, leading us on a crazy ride all the way to the World Series. Although they would lose to the Red Sox, they still showed that when a team gets hot anything is possible.

With the Dodgers currently standing at 44-26, still with a 9.5 game lead on the Rockies, the division will be hard to take. However, if the Rockies can keep this streak alive until the all-star break the division could be right back in sight again.

One of the biggest differences in the Rockies this season is center field. Matt Holliday was
traded away to the Oakland A's in the off-season. Holliday is most remembered for his slide home, giving the Rockies the winning run over the San Diego Padres on the last day of the season, giving them the wildcard. He was also arguably the best hitter they had.

This year without Holiday, it's been unlikely hero's that have brought the Rockies back into contention. The Rockies line-up has been hitting very well, especially as of late, something any team needs to go on a win-streak.

The ageing Told Helton has been a pleasant surprise, batting .316 this season, with 48 rbi's and 40 runs. Clean-up hitter Brad Hawpe is currently ranked 3rd in the NL with a .338 average, along with 50 rbi's and 39 runs. Troy Tulowitzki, who struggled mightily earlier this season, is batting .306 with 5 homers in the month of June. To top it all off, the most unlikely of hero's has to be Ian Stewart. A projected back-up at the start of the season now is batting .317 with 6 homers for the month of June. Clint Barmes has also emerged, batting .342 with 16 rbi's this month.

The starters have also really picked it up for this team. In the months of April and May, they were averaging 5.8 innings pitched, and over a 4.5 era. In the month of June they are averaging 6.6 innings pitched, a 3.4 era and 2.5 k's-balls ratio. Much of this can be credited to ace Aaron Cook. In April, Cook finished 1-1, with a 7.11 era and a .409 OBA. Since then Cook has went 5-2 with a 2.97 era, and a .283 OBA.

Closer Huston Street has been huge also. He has yet to blow a save since the winning streak started. He has had seven in the month of June, totaling 15 for the season.

Jim Tracy should take much of the credit for the Rockies recent success. Before firing Clint Hurdle, the Rockies were 18-28. Since then as Jim Tracy took over, the Rockies have gone an incredible 18-5. Whatever Tracy's doing it's working.

All in all, the Rockies should ride this streak for all it's worth. Everything is going right for this team right. Although, they don't have a lot of big names, everyone is working together to make this team succeed.

Marshall wants out of Denver

What started as a rumor, has now been confirmed by Brandon Marshall's agent. The disgruntled pro-bowl wide receiver wants out of Denver.

"Yes there was a meeting between Brandon, and (Broncos owner) Mr. (Pat) Bowlen," Marshall's agent, Kennard McGuire told FOX31 in Denver. "There was a request for a trade. Mr. Bowlen has said that ownership will do everything in its power to accommodate his wishes."

News of Marshall's wishes came just days after he skipped Broncos mandatory mini-camp.

While Marshall's main issue with the team is primarily about money, he also has stated he has a lack of trust in Denver's medical staff. The staff decided not to rehab at team headquarters following what he has called a misdiagnosis of his hip injury last year.

Marshall made $1.5 million in each of his first three seasons, before making the Pro Bowl last year which brought his 2009 pay to $2.2 million.

Marshall would be the second pro-bowler lost this off-season, the Broncos already lost the Chicago-bound Jay Cutler, who demanded a trade after being initially involved in trade talks by new head coach Josh McDaniels. The Broncos received two first round picks, and quarterback Kyle Orton in return for Cutler.

While the loss would be another huge hit, the Broncos would be better off getting rid of the troubled receiver, instead 0f trying to accommodate his wishes. Marshall has always had the I before team attitude, which all organizations dread.

He has also had some anger issues in the past, including charges of domestic assault on his girlfriend in 2008, which lead to a three game suspension by Roger Godell.

He also had a incident in 2008, which to this day is still surrounded by skepticism. He severed an artery and a vein, damaged a nerve in his right forearm and cut tendons to five muscles, when his hand went through a television screen. He needed surgery to have his tendons and artery sutured back together, which took 3 months recovery time. It was reported that Marshall claimed to be wrestling with a family member when the incident happened. The accident happened during the off-season, so he did not miss any of the 2008 season.

One thing you cannot deny about him is his athletic talent, which is why the Broncos should be able to get a decent value for him.

Marshall is an elite receiver, but at times he seems to not have his head on straight. Many have nick-named him T.O. number two, for both his athletic ability and off the field antics.

When your dealing with a player who wants to be traded, it seems as if it never ends good if the player is not granted his wish. Instead of dealing with all the distractions that would surround the team, the Broncos might as well start on a clean slate, and get rid of the receiver.

Some teams of interest could be, the Buccaneers, the Jets, a reunification with Cutler on the Bears, the Vikings and the Eagles. I would list the Giants as a team of interest but I cant see them taking a player with any character issues, especially after what happened with Plaxico.

Buck got what he payed for

For those of you who haven't seen it yet, check out Artie Lang on the Joe Buck Live show. (It has been taken off of YouTube by HBO, so bare with the video it's all I could find).

http://www.tiricosuave.com/2009/06/15/artie-lange-ruins-joe-buck-live-in-a-most-excellent-way/

Artie Lang's appearance on Joe Buck Live was suppose to give viewers some laughs and add a comical aspect to the show, but Lang had other intentions.

The recovering heroine addict and right-hand man of Howard Stern, was brought onto a segment with Actor Paul Rudd and SNL's Jason Sudeikis, took the show out of control on it's debut.

He took Buck out of his comfort zone on the uncensored HBO, reaching a level that HBO did not appreciate.

When Buck, a well-known sportscaster, announced that celebrity gossip site TMZ was his favorite website, Lange stated "Joe, TMZ is your favorite website? What's your second, suckingcock.com?"

Lange then followed and said, "I'm on TMZ constantly, did you see what Angelina was wearing today? What the fuck, how about going to a sports website for Christ's sake?"

Lange, with his feet on the table in front of him, then went on to admit he was homophobic, along with some more offensive remarks.

"As a Giants fan, and a well-known homophobic, it's like a white trash gift from god that the fucking Cowboys have a quarterback whose last name rhymes with homo, Lang said."

Lange then moved to Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo's girlfriend, Jessica Simpson.

"And he's dating a fat chick!" he said. "Jessica Simpson started out looking like Jessica Simpson, now she looks like Chris Farley from those Gap sketches."

Buck then tried taking control of the situation by moving the discussion forward, moments later Lange took a shot at Buck's hosting abilities.

"Good segue," Lange said, mocking Buck's attempt to move discussion forward. "You're a regular Bob Costas."

"I wanna be working construction by next Thursday, I hate show business," Lange said.

"You're on your way," Buck replied.

"So are you!" Lange shot back.

Later, as Buck attempted to rush Lang through a story about Buck's father, Lange said, "sorry to ruin your fucking great show."

"I appreciate the apology, because you have," Buck said.

Near the end of the segment, Lange takes out a cigarette and Buck yelled at him not to light it.

"If you do that, sir! Sir, you cannot do that," Buck shouted.

"I won't light it," Lange said.

"You think I care about you smoking a cigarette after what you just laid out here?" Buck said, so Lange said, "Fuck it, let's do it bro" and light up. "No, don't, please!" Buck said.

"Say what you mean," Lange said back.

HBO has already done everything they could to take the video off the web. The rumor now is Lang has a permanent ban off HBO. My question is what were they expecting when bringing in a train wreck like Artie Lang?

First off, the show is on HBO, if you tune into the same channel just a few hours later you can watch Cat House (Pornography). What Lang did was offensive, but he did not go to a level HBO has not been at before.

While at points it almost gets uncomfortable to watch, I still laughed throughout the whole segment. It really made great television.

Buck has always been a great color commentator, but he has never been a good host. Joe Buck Live with the exception of Lang was boring, it probably wont make it more then one season. Lang if anything just helped boost it's ratings. Buck is a professional and should be have been prepared for this.

Buck himself, according to his Joe Buck Live twitter, does not seem to be that upset about the incident.

"Artie did what he thought we wanted. A bit too far? Sure. But its LIVE. And fun!! Glad I am at HBO!!"

Did Lang go over the top, yes, is HBO blowing it out of proportion, definitely. When you bring in a guy like Lang you have to be expecting anything.

ALL QUOTES DURING THE SEGMENT ARE COURTESY OF THE HUFFINGTON POST

Brian Who?

The Yankees Brian Bruney, had some words for Francisco Rodriguez after the Mets loss Friday night.

Bruney spoke of Rodriguez's celebrations after he gets a save, and about blowing his first of the season on Friday night.

"Unbelievable. I've never seen anything like that. I have, but in high school," Bruney told reporters in Trenton. "It couldn't happen to a better guy on the mound, either. He's got a tired act."

As anyone who knows K-Rod would expect, he put Bruney right in his place. According to the New York Post, K-Rod had a few words to give back to Bruney.

"I don't even know who that guy is. Somewhere in Double-A? I believe he hasn't even pitched one full season. He's always been on the DL. That's all I know right now. He better keep his mouth shut and do his job and not worry about somebody else."

The issue escalated today before the game, when K-Rod approached Bruney and got in his face. K-Rod did most of the talking before the Yankees Jose Vera broke up the escapade.

Out of everyone on the Mets, K-Rod is the last player you want to mess with. He is a gamer, and plays with a lot of heart and emotion. His celebrations are just his way of showing the emotion he plays with.

Bruney had no business saying anything about K-Rod. I don't even understand why the guy was being interviewed about the situation in the first place. He deserves everything that comes to him from this. Good for K-Rod for confronting him. When Bruney breaks K-Rod's save record then maybe someone will care about his opinion.

I just wonder if Bruney put any thought into opening his mouth before he did. Where did he feel that he had any right to criticize K-Rod? Bruney, who has never even been able to make it through a full season, is trying to critique the singled season record holder for saves? It's pathetic and just gives Bruney a bad name.

Instead of blabbing his mouth, Bruney should work on getting off the disabled list, he has thrown just one inning for the Yankees since April 21st.

The only explanation I can possibly see for Bruney is just that he is jealous. He will more than likely never be even close to the level that K-Rod is at.

He should of just shut up and been happy with the Yanks win they were handed by the Mets on Friday.

Congrats to Kobe and the Lakers on winning the championship.

After blogging about the finals for the last week, the Lakers have taken home the championship.

The Kobe critics were out more then ever after the Lakers were crushed by the Celtics last year in the finals, stating he could not win a championship without Shaq.

Even if your not a Kobe Bryant fan, you have to give the man some credit. He has finally put his critics to rest, proving to truly be one of the best players of this generation. I personally am not a huge Kobe fan, but the man has skill. Once he retires he will go down as one of the best guards the game of basketball has ever seen.

This team is built to win a lot of games the next few seasons, as long as everyone stays healthy and a Laker, you could see a dynasty in the making. The young talent in Bynam and Ariza, combined with the veteran leadership of Bryant, Fisher, Odom and Gasol give the Lakers a team that could be good for many years to come.

They outplayed the Magic in every aspect, the Lakers were truly the best team this season and deserved the championship.

Professional Chokers

As Alex Rodriguez popped up to seemingly end game 1 of the subway series, the Mets thought nothing could go wrong.

The ball looked to be a routine catch for Luis Castillo. Rodriquez slammed his bat to the ground and Yankee fans were getting ready to head for the exits at the new Yankee Stadium.

Then the unthinkable happened.

Castillo dropped the ball, bringing home Derek Jeter and Mark Teixeira (already on base at the time) giving the Yankees a 9-8 win.

This was just another pitiful chapter for Mets, who have found ways to break fans hearts the past three seasons.

Blowing a seven game lead with just 17 games to go in 2007, the New York Mets orchestrated one of the biggest collapses in major league baseball history.

Then in 2008, the Mets collapsed again, losing the division and wildcard births on the last day at Shea Stadium, in front of a sold out crowd.

This year has brought Mets fans much of the same misery. When Ryan Church missed third base as the winning run, which instead resulted in a loss earlier this season, fans thought nothing could match that.

Blowing two straight games in late innings to the Phillies and Castillo's error last night, gave Church his match.

As a Mets fan, I find it hard to even sit through a game right now. For the past three seasons the Mets have lacked the consistency of being able to put games away. Even with the addition of Francisco Rodriguez, the Mets have still lost nine games when tied or winning going into the 8th inning this season, despite K-Rod being 16 for 16 in save situations before last night.

The lack of fundamentals on this team is something I've never seen before. Whether it's missing bases, dropping routine plays, misplaying balls or balks, their fundamentals look more like a little league team then a professional.

It's not time to start blaming Jerry Manuel, but something needs to change.

Omar Minaya has tried to establish a winning ball club, but instead hes built a team of mostly Latinos that lack the edge to win a championship. He has built a team that looks good on paper, but just doesn't win. They are missing the "killer instinct". With the exception of a few stand outs (K-Rod, Johan), I don't really see much of a competitive ego on this team. Even David Wright and Jose Reyes, seem to falter when the Mets need them most. In order for this team to do anything this season, Jerry needs to find a way to "fire up the troops".

Injuries have been rough on the Mets this year, giving the team some optimism, if they can keep themselves in the division hunt till August. By that time, they will have a healthy Carlos Delgado, J.J. Putz, Billy Wanger, and if all goes right an improved Oliver Perez. This will solve not only the home run problems (the Mets are currently ranked 29 in dingers), but will give them arguably the best 7th,8th,9th inning combination in baseball. The Mets are not a bad team, they have the talent, it's just a matter of if they can play with a competitive edge.

I think mentally, ever since they collapsed two seasons ago, they have lacked the confidence to win games.

The Mets have been given the reputation by the rest of the league as chokers, publicly by rival pitcher Cole Hamels. After all the things that have happened the past three seasons, I think it's fair to say the Mets are the biggest chokers in any professional sport.

Back to the game, a few things really bothered me.

For one, the Yankees reaction was ridiculous. For them to come out and commend A-Rod like he actually did something was foolish. If anyone, Tex should of been commended for hustling even when the game looked to be over.

Two, what was Ryan Church doing? Church, was coming in full charge at a ball that was all Castillo's. I am not here to try and play the blame game, Castillo blew it, but Church running in could definitely cause a distraction.

Lastly, why did Castillo throw to second? What good is going to happen from throwing the ball to second? Even if A-Rod turns first, Tex would have scored before the tag anyway. It made no sense at all.

For Mets fans everywhere, we can enjoy being the laughing stock of baseball until we figure out how to win games. For now, we can only hope things turn around for what should have been a promising season.