11. Buffalo Bills- Aaron Maybin, DE/LB, PSU
Why: The Bills need to bolster their pass rush. Veteran Chris Kelsay wants out of town and Aaron Schoebel isn't getting any younger. To compete in the AFC East, they need to get more pressure on the QB.
How else it could go: After shipping LT Jason Peters to the Eagles, the Bills have a gaping hole on the blind side. If one of the elite (Jason Smith, Monroe, Oher) slips here, they could be appealing. Don't count out Andre Smith who is immensly talented but projects to fall after an embarassing Combine breakdown. Although many would consider it a reach, TE Brandon Pettigrew could also be a possibility.
12. Denver Broncos- Everette Brown, DE/LB, FSU
Why: Another team who will undergo an identity change under a new coach. Their best pass rusher (Elvis Dumervil) is under-sized and may not be ideal with a scheme change. Brown is one of the elite rush end/linebackers in the draft
How else it could go: Reports have linked them to Mark Sanchez (who hasn't been). I'd be surprised. Kyle Orton should be efficient enough to run this offense. They've signed a host of running backs this offseason, but a player to keep an eye on could be Knowshon Moreno. This would be very high for him, but he could have the ability to fit in well in Denver.
13. Washington Redskins- Mark Sanchez, QB, USC
Why: If he falls to them, the Skins will undoubtedly take Sanchez. Danny Snyder reportedly has a big man crush on the former Trojan. He has said he won't unload next year's 1st rounder to move up for Sanchez, but that doesn't rule out a deal involving a former first rounder (Jason Campbell).
How else it could go: The Skins O-line isn't getting any younger, so Andre Smith could be a good fit in this spot to deal with the bounty of skilled pass rushers in the NFC East. They extended DeAngelo Hall for several years, but I wouldn't count them out of the CB market. Another possibility would be one of Sanchez former teammates Rey Maulauga, Clay Matthews, or Brian Cushing.
14. New Orleans Saints- Malcolm Jenkins, CB, OSU
Why: The past few years, the Saints have had plenty of fire power. Unfortunately, they've had trouble stopping others. A defensive back is sorely needed and the Jim Thorpe award winner would be a terrific fit for the Saints.
How else could it go: Is Reggie Bush or Pierre Thomas the answer in the Saints backfield? Many may argue that they can't get the job done. A big, bruising back such as Jenkins' college teammate Beanie Wells could be the guy.
15. Houston Texans- Clay Matthews, LB, USC
Why: The Texans have solidified their defensive line at the top of the last few drafts with Mario Williams and Amobi Okoye. Early round pick DeMeco Ryans has flourished as an interior linebacker, but he could use some help to the sides. That's where Matthews comes in to play.
How else it could go: There has been speculation that coach Gary Kubek wants some help in the backfield for RB Steve Slaton. The perfect compliment would be Beanie Wells, who could be gone to the Saints at 14, but likely to still be on the board.
16. San Diego Chargers- Brian Cushing, LB, USC
Why: The Chargers have been unable to stay healthy in their LB corps for several years now. Keeping any of the USC trio of linebackers in their home area would be a terrific acquistion.
How else it could go: Although not demonstrated in many mock drafts, the Chargers could be a team in the market for a go-to receiver. Vincent Jackson, Malcolm Floyd and Chris Chambers have talent, but they could use another vertical threat. Perhaps Percy Harvin's versatility fits well in to this offense.
17. New York Jets-Josh Freeman, QB, Kansas State
Why: Despite throwing money at various other positions in the past few offseasons, the Jets don't have a bona fide signal caller on their roster. While they'd much rather make a run at Sanchez, they might not have the ammo to get high enough to draft him. Freeman is seen as a project, but has a lot of desireable traits in a quarterback.
How else it could go: With the departure of Lavaranues Coles, the Jets could use help at the receiver position. Florida's Percy Harvin could be the playmaker they desire. I'd be surprised if the Jets are content to have Freeman as their answer, so look for them to get out of this spot.
18. Denver Broncos- Andre Smith, OT, Alabama
Why: If Smith manages to fall this far, the Broncos couldn't pass up the chance to grab an elite tackle to pair with Ryan Clady.
How else it could go: Smith is unlikely to fall this far, so the Broncos could look for defensive end help if they don't go in that direction at #12. Robert Ayers or Michael Johnson could be nice fits. They could also look to solidify their defensive backfield with Champ Bailey getting a little older, so Vontae Davis could be in play.
19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Robert Ayers, DE, Tennessee
Why: Another team that could use pass rush help. A book end to pair with Gaines Adams would really help this unit.
How else it could go: The Bucs cut a lot of veterans earlier this year and could look to fill those holes. A LB could also be the pick, depending on which of the USC LB's are on the board. If Freeman slips past the Jets, he could be the guy on a roster devoid of quality QB's.
20. Detroit Lions- Michael Johnson, DE, Georgia Tech
Why: The Lions took care of their franchise QB with the number one pick, so an OT could be the selection to keep him upright. Something tells me they'd rather field a defense that could keep the Lions in more lower scoring games. Johnson is a talented pass rusher who could make an immediate impact.
How else it could go: After going 0-16, you know the team has a lot of holes to fill. The Giants proved in '07 that teams need a big pass rush. In a copy cat league, I expect the worst managed team in the NFL to finally get the memo. However, if they don't look to bolster the D-line, they could look along the offensive line. Arizona's Ebben Britton could be an option.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Mock Draft- Part I- Picks 1-10
New URL. Same horrible prognosticating. Despite some feeble attempts at Mock Drafts in the past, I'm back at it this year with even less of a clue of what's to come. As technological advances make information so readily available, team executives exploit the media's love affair with the NFL draft by spreading false rumors and posturing. Every team is guilty of it. Each of the last two year's the Giants did not conduct private workouts with the men they tabbed as first round selections (Aaron Ross and Kenny Phillips). A team wants a guy to drop to them? Hype up potential injuries (see: Beanie Wells and foot). Trying to lower a team's ability to deal a disgruntled superstar? Adamantly state you have no interest in said player. With that in mind, here are three trades that I think make a lot of sense, but are by no means even remote possibilities.
3 Potential Blockbuster Trades:
1) Redskins receive: #3 pick from Chiefs to select Mark Sanchez
Jets receive: Jason Campbell from WAS
Chiefs receive: #13 pick from Washington, #17 pick from NYJ
2) Packers receive: #23 pick and 3rd round from Patriots
Patriots receive: #9 pick from Packers to select DE/LB Aaron Maybin
3) Browns receive: 2nd, 5th and 2010 4th from Giants
Giants receive: WR Braylon Edwards
This year could be the year where a lot of teams are on the move. Several teams are loaded with 2nd day picks and could use them as ammo to grab the players they target. If every team holds their pick (which I believe is 100% not going to happen), this is how it might look:
1. Detroit Lions-Matthew Stafford, QB, UGA-
Why: Got one! The Lions have already agreed to a 6-year deal with Stafford.
2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith, T, Baylor
Why: With the departure of long-time, future hall-of-fame LT Orlando Pace, the Rams are in need of a blindside protector for year's to come. Even though this is a top-heavy draft for Tackles, Smith seems to be the safest of the elite. High character, good frame, and productive in a top tier conference (Big XII).
How else it could go: Rumors have been circulating tying the Rams to Mark Sanchez. Reports have surfaced the Rams even have arranged for Sanchez to fly to St. Louis on Sunday. With all the money they have tied in to Marc Bulger, it's hard to see Sanchez become a Ram. They could like one of the other tackles (Andre Smith, Eugene Monroe, Michael Oher). I wouldn't be surprised if the Rams deal this pick.
3. Kansas City Chiefs- Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Why: Jackson has been shooting up draft boards in recent weeks. He'd be the book-end of a line that features another first rounder from a couple years ago Tamba Hali.
How else it could go: Chiefs should look long and hard at LB Aaron Curry. They've added veterans like Mike Vrabel who could help shape Curry in to a perennial Pro Bowler. This is another pick I wouldn't suprise to be shopped as new GM Scott Pioli would love some additional picks.
4. Seattle Seahawks- Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
Why: There are several directions the 'Hawks can go in with this pick. They need the heir apparents to LT Walter Jones, QB Matt Hasselbeck, and someone to pair with new acquisition TJ Houshmandzadeh. That said, Eugene Monroe, Mark Sanchez, or Michael Crabtree would not be surprising in this spot. However, Seattle could plug Curry in to a talented LB corps that already features Lofa Tatupu, LeRoy Hill, and an aging Julian Peterson.
How else it could go: The Seahawks are a real power team of the first round. If they select a Tackle, there could be a mad scramble to move up and take one of the two remaining elite tackles on the board. If they show genuine interest in Sanchez, teams could be trying to get up to #3 to select ahead of them.
5. Cleveland Browns- BJ Raji, DT, Boston College
Why: Eric Mangini is a hard-nosed, defensive-oriented guy. He'd love to have another big body on the D-line and Raji projects well on the interior of a 3-4 defense. If their rumored interest in Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka holds any weight, they are clearly looking to upgrade their defensive front.
How else it could go: If they are bracing for the loss of Braylon Edwards, they could go Crabtree here. Reportedly they found Crabtree to be a diva during the interview process, but that could be a smoke screen to coax teams in to believing they want to hold on to Edwards.
6. Cincinnati Bengals- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
Why: Ochocinco is not getting any younger and the Bengals lost TJ Houshmandzadeh to free agency. Having a young talent to take some pressure off 85 could rejuvenate his interest in playing football and give Carson Palmer another playmaker. If pre-draft coverage is any indicator, Crabtree was wearing a Cincinnati Reds cap. I'm just saying...
How else it could go: If Smith or Monroe are available, the Bengals could be interested in keeping Carson Palmer upright. The last thing the Bengals need is another diva Wide Receiver. If the reports on Crabtree are true, he would not be a good fit for the Bengals.
7. Oakland Raiders- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Why: Al Davis loves downfield threats. Maclin may be the best available in this draft. He had a very accomplished college career which seperates him from Maryland's Darius Heyward-Bey.
How else it could go: DHB is a burner. Many people feel Al Davis wouldn't be afraid to reach to get even more speed.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars- Eugene Monroe, T, Virginia
Why: Jaguars expected to be a playoff contender last year but fell flat on their face because they couldn't protect David Garrard. While Garrard has slimmed down this offseason to become more agile, a big body on the O-line could be the move to make them a contender again.
How else it could go: The Patriots have reportedly made an offer for this pick but been turned away. Depending on how the first 7 picks go, the Jags may look to move back. If they stay in this spot and don't focus on the line, they could look at Crabtree, Maclin, or Heyward-Bey.
9. Green Bay Packers- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
Why: The Packers are stacked with young playmakers on the offensive side of the ball, but need their defense to step up to become an elite team. New coordinator Dom Capers plans to switch to a 3-4 but they lack the ends to make this system work.
How else they could go: They could look to draft a young corner to be the heir apparent to Charles Woodson and Al Harris. Names that could surface are Malcolm Jenkins or Vontae Davis. One of the hybrid ends Aaron Maybin or Everette Brown could also be an option.
10. San Francisco 49ERS- Michael Oher, T, Ole Miss
Why: Franchise tackles are hard to come by. They think they found one with Joe Staley a couple seasons ago, but they could use a true blind-side protector. Who better than the main focus of "The Blind Side".
How else they could go: If Sanchez slides, they could use a franchise QB. The California kid could be a smart marketing move for a franchise that has fallen far from grace. A few of us his former teammates, most notably Rey Maulauga or Clay Matthews, could be great options to team with superstar LB Patrick Willis.
3 Potential Blockbuster Trades:
1) Redskins receive: #3 pick from Chiefs to select Mark Sanchez
Jets receive: Jason Campbell from WAS
Chiefs receive: #13 pick from Washington, #17 pick from NYJ
2) Packers receive: #23 pick and 3rd round from Patriots
Patriots receive: #9 pick from Packers to select DE/LB Aaron Maybin
3) Browns receive: 2nd, 5th and 2010 4th from Giants
Giants receive: WR Braylon Edwards
This year could be the year where a lot of teams are on the move. Several teams are loaded with 2nd day picks and could use them as ammo to grab the players they target. If every team holds their pick (which I believe is 100% not going to happen), this is how it might look:
1. Detroit Lions-Matthew Stafford, QB, UGA-
Why: Got one! The Lions have already agreed to a 6-year deal with Stafford.
2. St. Louis Rams- Jason Smith, T, Baylor
Why: With the departure of long-time, future hall-of-fame LT Orlando Pace, the Rams are in need of a blindside protector for year's to come. Even though this is a top-heavy draft for Tackles, Smith seems to be the safest of the elite. High character, good frame, and productive in a top tier conference (Big XII).
How else it could go: Rumors have been circulating tying the Rams to Mark Sanchez. Reports have surfaced the Rams even have arranged for Sanchez to fly to St. Louis on Sunday. With all the money they have tied in to Marc Bulger, it's hard to see Sanchez become a Ram. They could like one of the other tackles (Andre Smith, Eugene Monroe, Michael Oher). I wouldn't be surprised if the Rams deal this pick.
3. Kansas City Chiefs- Tyson Jackson, DE, LSU
Why: Jackson has been shooting up draft boards in recent weeks. He'd be the book-end of a line that features another first rounder from a couple years ago Tamba Hali.
How else it could go: Chiefs should look long and hard at LB Aaron Curry. They've added veterans like Mike Vrabel who could help shape Curry in to a perennial Pro Bowler. This is another pick I wouldn't suprise to be shopped as new GM Scott Pioli would love some additional picks.
4. Seattle Seahawks- Aaron Curry, LB, Wake Forest
Why: There are several directions the 'Hawks can go in with this pick. They need the heir apparents to LT Walter Jones, QB Matt Hasselbeck, and someone to pair with new acquisition TJ Houshmandzadeh. That said, Eugene Monroe, Mark Sanchez, or Michael Crabtree would not be surprising in this spot. However, Seattle could plug Curry in to a talented LB corps that already features Lofa Tatupu, LeRoy Hill, and an aging Julian Peterson.
How else it could go: The Seahawks are a real power team of the first round. If they select a Tackle, there could be a mad scramble to move up and take one of the two remaining elite tackles on the board. If they show genuine interest in Sanchez, teams could be trying to get up to #3 to select ahead of them.
5. Cleveland Browns- BJ Raji, DT, Boston College
Why: Eric Mangini is a hard-nosed, defensive-oriented guy. He'd love to have another big body on the D-line and Raji projects well on the interior of a 3-4 defense. If their rumored interest in Giants DE Mathias Kiwanuka holds any weight, they are clearly looking to upgrade their defensive front.
How else it could go: If they are bracing for the loss of Braylon Edwards, they could go Crabtree here. Reportedly they found Crabtree to be a diva during the interview process, but that could be a smoke screen to coax teams in to believing they want to hold on to Edwards.
6. Cincinnati Bengals- Michael Crabtree, WR, Texas Tech
Why: Ochocinco is not getting any younger and the Bengals lost TJ Houshmandzadeh to free agency. Having a young talent to take some pressure off 85 could rejuvenate his interest in playing football and give Carson Palmer another playmaker. If pre-draft coverage is any indicator, Crabtree was wearing a Cincinnati Reds cap. I'm just saying...
How else it could go: If Smith or Monroe are available, the Bengals could be interested in keeping Carson Palmer upright. The last thing the Bengals need is another diva Wide Receiver. If the reports on Crabtree are true, he would not be a good fit for the Bengals.
7. Oakland Raiders- Jeremy Maclin, WR, Missouri
Why: Al Davis loves downfield threats. Maclin may be the best available in this draft. He had a very accomplished college career which seperates him from Maryland's Darius Heyward-Bey.
How else it could go: DHB is a burner. Many people feel Al Davis wouldn't be afraid to reach to get even more speed.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars- Eugene Monroe, T, Virginia
Why: Jaguars expected to be a playoff contender last year but fell flat on their face because they couldn't protect David Garrard. While Garrard has slimmed down this offseason to become more agile, a big body on the O-line could be the move to make them a contender again.
How else it could go: The Patriots have reportedly made an offer for this pick but been turned away. Depending on how the first 7 picks go, the Jags may look to move back. If they stay in this spot and don't focus on the line, they could look at Crabtree, Maclin, or Heyward-Bey.
9. Green Bay Packers- Brian Orakpo, DE, Texas
Why: The Packers are stacked with young playmakers on the offensive side of the ball, but need their defense to step up to become an elite team. New coordinator Dom Capers plans to switch to a 3-4 but they lack the ends to make this system work.
How else they could go: They could look to draft a young corner to be the heir apparent to Charles Woodson and Al Harris. Names that could surface are Malcolm Jenkins or Vontae Davis. One of the hybrid ends Aaron Maybin or Everette Brown could also be an option.
10. San Francisco 49ERS- Michael Oher, T, Ole Miss
Why: Franchise tackles are hard to come by. They think they found one with Joe Staley a couple seasons ago, but they could use a true blind-side protector. Who better than the main focus of "The Blind Side".
How else they could go: If Sanchez slides, they could use a franchise QB. The California kid could be a smart marketing move for a franchise that has fallen far from grace. A few of us his former teammates, most notably Rey Maulauga or Clay Matthews, could be great options to team with superstar LB Patrick Willis.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Yanks Set Thursday Tryout for Wang
There were many question marks entering the 2009 season for the Yankees. How would they adapt to a new home? How would the new additions adjust to New York? Should Joba be in the pen? One thing was certain: Chien-Ming Wang would be the top number three starter in all of baseball. Unfortunately, after his first three starts, he couldn't be a number three starter on my co-ed softball team. The team has decided to skip his scheduled start this weekend in Fenway and have set up an audition at their extended spring training in Tampa. They estimate Wang will throw about 100 pitches and the outcome will determine his immediate future with the team. If he struggles and his velocity continues to be an issue, a trip to the Disabled List is a strong possibility.
So what should the Yankees do with Wang? They've already bruised his ego by shipping him south and skipping his spot in the rotation. Although it's early, the Yankees can't afford to let him work out his issues in the big leagues. Unfortunately they have very few options. They can't send him to Scranton without a trip through waivers. Even though Phil Hughes is off to a strong start in Triple A, listening to offers for Wang would be foolish because he has little trade value at the moment (except possibly in a heavy asian market such as Seattle).
Wang maintains that he has no injury or mechanical issues, but he'd get a strong opposing argument from Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi. Pitching coach Dave Eiland insists that the tall righty has had strong bullpen sessions and will carry that on to the field shortly. The Yankees are hoping to find out he's right during Thursday's audition.
So what should the Yankees do with Wang? They've already bruised his ego by shipping him south and skipping his spot in the rotation. Although it's early, the Yankees can't afford to let him work out his issues in the big leagues. Unfortunately they have very few options. They can't send him to Scranton without a trip through waivers. Even though Phil Hughes is off to a strong start in Triple A, listening to offers for Wang would be foolish because he has little trade value at the moment (except possibly in a heavy asian market such as Seattle).
Wang maintains that he has no injury or mechanical issues, but he'd get a strong opposing argument from Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi. Pitching coach Dave Eiland insists that the tall righty has had strong bullpen sessions and will carry that on to the field shortly. The Yankees are hoping to find out he's right during Thursday's audition.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Not Your Dear Abby Advice Column
Today I'm unveiling a new weekly spot for the site with my weekly fantasy sports advice column. With the NBA and NHL starting up their playoffs, (and who really cares about their respective fantasy leagues anyway) I'll focus on baseball. Some slow starts by some big names have owners worried, so for week one I'll take a look at a few of the big name guys you should be patient with and the ones you should deal while you can.
Any day now:
Brandon Phillips, Reds 2B- One of the top 2B available and a must-start guy in all formats. He's well below the Mendoza line after another terrible day from the plate on Monday, but he's a legit 20-20 guy and should still be considered an elite 2B talent.
David Ortiz, Red Sox 1B/DH- Ortiz started to emerge from his slump with a strong outing in the Red Sox convincing win earlier today. His inability to drive the ball has caused concern in Beantown, but manager Terry Francona was encouraged by a new dent put in the Green Monster by his cleanup hitter in today's game. While his days of 35/120 may be behind him, I'd be surprised if he didn't chase 30/100.
Just need a little time to clear their heads:
Chien Ming-Wang, Yankees, SP- Call me crazy, but I don't believe Wang has forgotten how to pitch. This is a guy who combined for 38 wins in 2006 and 2007. The injury he suffered last year is not a red flag for a pitcher (shoulder/elbow), but a freak foot problem. My only concern is whether it's still affecting his ability to plant his foot. Although Wang didn't want to miss a start, the Yankees will skip his turn in the rotation this weekend. I expect he'll regain his form within the next couple weeks.
Cole Hamels, Phillies, SP- The reigning MVP of the World Series has struggled in his first two outings after having his Opening Day start pushed back due to elbow concerns. Many pundits suggest his rapid increase in innings a year ago will cause the Phillies ace to take a step back or possibly miss some time. I don't see it happening. His stuff is too good for prolonged struggles and he'll be a force in the not too distant future.
Cut 'em loose:
Hideki Matsui, Yankees DH/OF- It pains me to include a Yankee on this list, but Godzilla does not appear to be fully healed from his knee problems. He's unable to put weight on his leg and has been swinging only with his upper half. Matsui consistently is stepping out of the box and is not driving the ball to any part of the field. The Yankees will have to give him more rest and it is highly unlikely he matches the production anyone expected of him this year.
Pat Burrell, Rays, DH/OF- A 30 HR machine for years as a Phillie, the switch to the AL has been unkind to the often over-looked Burrell. He's advancing in age and it shows. One encouraging thing for Burrell owners is that he should benefit from the hot starts of Evan Longoria and Carlos Pena. As pitchers start to get more careful with the two Rays sluggers ahead of him, Burrell should have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs. The RBI's may come as a result of opportunity, but it's hard to imagine him matching his HR productivity of recent years.
Any day now:
Brandon Phillips, Reds 2B- One of the top 2B available and a must-start guy in all formats. He's well below the Mendoza line after another terrible day from the plate on Monday, but he's a legit 20-20 guy and should still be considered an elite 2B talent.
David Ortiz, Red Sox 1B/DH- Ortiz started to emerge from his slump with a strong outing in the Red Sox convincing win earlier today. His inability to drive the ball has caused concern in Beantown, but manager Terry Francona was encouraged by a new dent put in the Green Monster by his cleanup hitter in today's game. While his days of 35/120 may be behind him, I'd be surprised if he didn't chase 30/100.
Just need a little time to clear their heads:
Chien Ming-Wang, Yankees, SP- Call me crazy, but I don't believe Wang has forgotten how to pitch. This is a guy who combined for 38 wins in 2006 and 2007. The injury he suffered last year is not a red flag for a pitcher (shoulder/elbow), but a freak foot problem. My only concern is whether it's still affecting his ability to plant his foot. Although Wang didn't want to miss a start, the Yankees will skip his turn in the rotation this weekend. I expect he'll regain his form within the next couple weeks.
Cole Hamels, Phillies, SP- The reigning MVP of the World Series has struggled in his first two outings after having his Opening Day start pushed back due to elbow concerns. Many pundits suggest his rapid increase in innings a year ago will cause the Phillies ace to take a step back or possibly miss some time. I don't see it happening. His stuff is too good for prolonged struggles and he'll be a force in the not too distant future.
Cut 'em loose:
Hideki Matsui, Yankees DH/OF- It pains me to include a Yankee on this list, but Godzilla does not appear to be fully healed from his knee problems. He's unable to put weight on his leg and has been swinging only with his upper half. Matsui consistently is stepping out of the box and is not driving the ball to any part of the field. The Yankees will have to give him more rest and it is highly unlikely he matches the production anyone expected of him this year.
Pat Burrell, Rays, DH/OF- A 30 HR machine for years as a Phillie, the switch to the AL has been unkind to the often over-looked Burrell. He's advancing in age and it shows. One encouraging thing for Burrell owners is that he should benefit from the hot starts of Evan Longoria and Carlos Pena. As pitchers start to get more careful with the two Rays sluggers ahead of him, Burrell should have plenty of opportunities to drive in runs. The RBI's may come as a result of opportunity, but it's hard to imagine him matching his HR productivity of recent years.
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Can Yanks win with a broken Wang?
An 0-3 start for a starting pitcher isn't the end of the world. And, believe it or not, neither is an astronomical 34+ earned run average. After all, when you're playing for the New York Yankees, it comes down to what you do in September and October. Unfortunately, when you struggle in April, the question becomes can the Bombers blast their way to the postseason in a loaded AL East with Chien Ming-Wang doing his best Sidney Ponson impression?
The Taiwanese sinkerballer anchored the staff in 2006 and 2007 with 19 wins each year. He was off to an 8-2 start a season ago before a freak injury on the base paths cost him the rest of his 2008 campaign. Pitching coach Dave Eiland insists that "the stuff" is still there in bullpen sessions, but Wang has been unable to replicate that on the field. Club personnel suggest mechanical issues. If so, one has to believe it's only a matter of time before he rights the ship. However, there are others insisting his velocity is down, which could be a reason for concern. His start on Saturday aired on Fox and the speed of each pitch was not displayed. The few they did show had his fastball touching around 90-91, which is slightly down. Although the coaching staff maintains its position on blaming the poor starts on his mechanics, Wang has publicly refuted those claims. So what else could it be? Judging by the pep talks he received upon his departure from yesterday's outing from Jeter and Girardi, it seems he's struggling with his confidence. With his next start scheduled for Fenway park next weekend, the Yankees are perilously close to dealing with a major crisis. If the Yankees hope to emerge from a brutal AL East, Wang needs to return to form against their arch rival.
The Taiwanese sinkerballer anchored the staff in 2006 and 2007 with 19 wins each year. He was off to an 8-2 start a season ago before a freak injury on the base paths cost him the rest of his 2008 campaign. Pitching coach Dave Eiland insists that "the stuff" is still there in bullpen sessions, but Wang has been unable to replicate that on the field. Club personnel suggest mechanical issues. If so, one has to believe it's only a matter of time before he rights the ship. However, there are others insisting his velocity is down, which could be a reason for concern. His start on Saturday aired on Fox and the speed of each pitch was not displayed. The few they did show had his fastball touching around 90-91, which is slightly down. Although the coaching staff maintains its position on blaming the poor starts on his mechanics, Wang has publicly refuted those claims. So what else could it be? Judging by the pep talks he received upon his departure from yesterday's outing from Jeter and Girardi, it seems he's struggling with his confidence. With his next start scheduled for Fenway park next weekend, the Yankees are perilously close to dealing with a major crisis. If the Yankees hope to emerge from a brutal AL East, Wang needs to return to form against their arch rival.
Friday, April 17, 2009
Aura and Mystique are Dead and Gone
Many wonderful things have been said about the new Yankee Stadium. Concession stands go on for miles offering all the best fare the city has to offer. Everything is pristine, even the men's bathrooms. A fan can wander around the hallways and find stunning views of the field with each step. But one thing is missing: fans who actually care. Nearly two billion dollars bought all the players, food, and amenities that charm corporate America, but the Steinbrenners' and taxpayer dollars will not be able to recreate the magic of the old park. That seems harsh after one regular season game, but any real fan could tell the show has become the park, not the game. Fans reveled at all the new toys, but couldn't even muster a "Reg-gie" or "Yo-gi" during pre-game introductions. Never before has such a star-studded event been received so poorly in the Bronx. It may have been just day one, but the sights and (lack of) sounds do not bode well for the future of the new building.
People may suggest it was simply "an opening day crowd"; a crowd there more to be seen than heard. Unfortunately, this year projects to be full of "opening day" crowds. Even the most passionate fans can't justify the type of money it costs to catch a game. Those who can afford the most expensive seats, even in the old stadium, aren't the noisemakers. Unfortunately, in the current structure, those are the only ones who can be heard by the players. The new "concourse level" is closer to the Grand Concourse than the field. These differences were not lost on the beneficiaries of a home-field advantage. Players, past and present, remarked how different the park sounded yesterday. If the performance by the "10th man" continues to be lackluster, the Yankees once vaunted home-field advantage will be greatly diminished.
People may suggest it was simply "an opening day crowd"; a crowd there more to be seen than heard. Unfortunately, this year projects to be full of "opening day" crowds. Even the most passionate fans can't justify the type of money it costs to catch a game. Those who can afford the most expensive seats, even in the old stadium, aren't the noisemakers. Unfortunately, in the current structure, those are the only ones who can be heard by the players. The new "concourse level" is closer to the Grand Concourse than the field. These differences were not lost on the beneficiaries of a home-field advantage. Players, past and present, remarked how different the park sounded yesterday. If the performance by the "10th man" continues to be lackluster, the Yankees once vaunted home-field advantage will be greatly diminished.
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