Bleacher Report - Articles by matthew offermann

Josh Hamilton Says No to US-A

matthew offermann — Mon, 15 Dec 2008 05:48:42 -0500

As we get closer and closer to the World Baseball Classic we see our favorite players go to their respected countries. The top overall pick in the 1999 first year player draft has declined to play for team USA.

After declining to play hamilton was recorded saying, "If I had four or five years under my belt, I think I would do it. I think I would be better served by going to Spring Training and by getting that work in, because I missed so much time."

In 2008, Hamilton finished first in the American League with 130 RBIs and 331 total bases. He also hit .304, and if you will remember he dominated the Home Run Derby with a record setting 32 long balls in one round.

BCS Bowl Game Predictions

matthew offermann — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 14:48:02 -0500

I have heard it all year, and I have complained just as much as anyone on the doubtful nature of the BCS standings. But at least the computers didn't screw us out of a good championship game. Florida vs. Oklahoma is the first thing the BCS has done right all year.

NATIONAL CHAMPIONSHIP

Florida vs. Oklahoma

I look to see some big numbers in this game from start to finish. Two great QB's will be going at it, and promise to put on quite a show. This game may come down to the final drive. Florida's defense may have a slight edge over OU's, but other than that it is a pretty even game.

Florida wins it 30-21

The Rose Bowl

USC vs. Penn St.

Personally, I don't see how Penn St. is even in this game. But quite honestly, with the way things have been going this year, I'm not surprised. Anyway, I don't see Penn anywhere close to the Trojans when time expires.

USC wins 44-14

The Orange Bowl

Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati

This has to be the worst bowl game matchup of all time, especially considering that there are so many more deserving teams than these two. I seriously don't think anyone will watch this game outside of these teams' fans.

Virginia Tech wins 21-7

Fiesta Bowl

Ohio St. vs. Texas

Here is the second best thing the BCS has done this year, only not. This looks to be a good game, except the exact opposite of that. Ohio State will win this game. And by win, I mean "get blown out of the building by an angry Texas team." Rice has a better chance than the Buckeyes.

Texas Crushes Ohio St. 55-14

Sugar Bowl

Alabama vs. Utah

Once again, I can't quite understand how Utah is here. I understand that Boise State heard the same thing when they played Oklahoma last year, but lightning doesn't strike the same place twice. Utah's wins against decent teams have come by very thin margins. Look for the Tide to roll in this one.

Alabama beats Utah 66-7

The Gods Of Baseball

matthew offermann — Sun, 07 Dec 2008 11:50:05 -0500

I am now addicted to comparing players to different things. This one has different Greek Gods and which baseball players would be them.

Zeus---Ty Cobb

The chief of the gods and the chief of baseball a perfect match. Arguably, if not definitely, the best player in all of baseball.

Poseidon---Hank Aaron

Poseidon was the god of water which is a huge part of the world (obviously). Being the all time leader of RBI's is a huge record to hold too.

Hades---Reggie Jackson

The Underworld was a place no one ever wanted to go. The career strike out record is also something no one wants and I hate to put Mr. October on here as a bad thing but stats don't lie.

Ares---Walter Johnson

The god of war. The god of starting wars. Johnson has the career record for hit batsman.

Hermes---Rickey Henderson

Speed,speed,speed. Hermes had speed and apparently so did the career leader for stolen bases with 1406 when the next closest person had 938. Phew, that's fast.

Hercules---Babe Ruth

Power and strength. Hercules was powerful and so was the great bambino.

Kronos--- A-Rod

Kronos was a titan and was the youngest of them all. Alex has broken a lot of records by being the youngest to do so.

Atlas--- Cal Ripken Jr.

Atlas lead the titans into battle against the gods. Ripken led the Oriels into battle for 2131 straight games.

Apollo---Tim Lincecum

Apollo was a key catalyst for the gods. Lincecum looks to be one for the Giants for a while.

Atlanta Braves Aquire Javier Vazquez

matthew offermann — Tue, 02 Dec 2008 11:31:51 -0500

MLB sources have confirmed that the White Sox have agreed upon a trade that will send right-hander Javier Vazquez to the Braves. Of course this is all pending physicals.

There are not a whole lot of details but "word is" that the White Sox will send Vasquez and a player to be named to the Braves for three unidentified players.

One of the two probable players that the Braves will send is OF Brent Lillibridge; the second player the White Sox will send to Atlanta is rumored to be LHRP Boone Logan.

The BCS Is Screwing Over Heisman Hopefuls!

matthew offermann — Thu, 27 Nov 2008 21:53:00 -0500

The Heisman Trophy. What do you think about when you hear it? Do you think about a quarterback who has impressive numbers? Or maybe it’s a running back who has broken records? I know that’s the first thing I think about when I think about it.

However, recently following Texas Tech’s devastating loss to Oklahoma, a very, very skilled quarterback is being brushed aside simply for the fact that the team lost. I am pretty sure the Heisman is an MVP-type award where numbers win.

There have been talk all year that the top three hopefuls were Tim Tebow, Colt McCoy, and Graham Harrell. Following the loss, Harrell has completely disappeared from talks. I want to look at the stats of these three and the newcomer jumping into Harrell’s spot, Sam Bradford.

Tim Tebow, QB, Florida

Pass Yards: 2114

TDs: 22

INTs: 2

Colt McCoy, QB, Texas

Pass Yards: 3445

TDs: 32

INTs: 7

Sam Bradford, QB, Oklahoma

Pass Yards: 3710

TDs: 42

INTs: 6

Graham Harrell, QB, Texas Tech

Pass Yards: 4438

TDs: 39

INTs: 6

I don’t know about you, but I think they dropped the wrong guy. (*cough* Tebow *cough*) Even if Harrell doesn’t win, it's not right that just because his team lost it should automatically cancel him out as an MVP-type player.

Another thing that bugs me is that ALL OF THESE PLAYERS ARE ON A TEAM THAT HAS ONE LOSS. Yet they pick Harrell to screw over.

Which NASCAR Drivers Would Be MLB Teams?

matthew offermann — Wed, 26 Nov 2008 14:32:23 -0500

I have seen a bunch of articles that rate what kind of athlete would be a good team. i.e., wrestlers and NFL teams. So I decided to make one that puts NASCAR drivers as MLB teams.

Dale Earnhardt---New York Yankees

It's only right that the best driver ever should be with the best MLB team ever. Both have won the most championships in their respected sports. There is no doubt that these two are exactly alike.

Jimmy Johnson--- Boston Red Sox

These two are a perfect match. Both have started their rise to greatness around the 2001-02 seasons. Since then stock has sharply rose for both. Look for both to not stop anytime soon.

Carl Edwards---Chicago Cubs

When I think of Carl Edwards, I can only use one word. Clutch. The man wins when he needs to and has rose up the last couple of years, such as the Cubbies have done.

Greg Biffle---Philladelphia Phillies

Greg and the Phillies are a good match, I think, because when you really think about it, you would not expect either to win a championship, even though the Phillies won it this year. Maybe now its Greg's turn.

Kevin Harvick---Any NL West Team

I could not find an exact team for Harvick. I always thought of Kevin as a guy who was always in the Playoff race, if you will, but has never won. Always in the mist but never comes through. I dont believe any NL West team has won in a while and sadly for Kevin, I don't believe they will in a long time.

Clint Boyer---San Fransisco Giants

I chose the Giants more for a certain player. Tim Lincecum. Both are rather old, but still have something to show. Tim has won the NL Cy Young Award, and Clint Boyer finished fifth in points. Not too shabby for an old guy.

Jeff Burton---LA Dodgers

Almost the same reason as Boyer: Burton is like the Dodgers because they have been around for a while, and this year they started to shine.

Jeff Gordon---Atlanta Braves

This pick was ready from the get-go. Both were excellent in the nineties. Still good but slowly fading. Not that Gordon is done, but I don't see him winning anymore championships while people like Johnson are around.

Denny Hamlin---Tampa Bay Rays

Not a whole lot to say here. Both young and starting to shine.

Tony Stewart---Houston Astros

Stewart, by me, is seen as a fighter. I choose the Astros because of Nolan Ryan. I remember seeing a fight, more like a punch, when Ryan uppercutted Robin Ventura.

Kyle Busch---Milwaukee Brewers

Both were great in the regular season but crumbled in the playoffs.

Matt Kenseth---Colorado Rockies

One excellent year each but sadly nothing since.

Dale Earnhardt Jr.---New York Mets

As the first one says Dale Sr. and the Yankees are the best. Both are living in shadows, and will never be as good as either Dale Sr. or the Yankees.

If you read this and a picture of Tim Lincecum shows up, please change it if you can; my computer is being gay.

AP Polls: Once Again Texas Tech Gets The Shaft

matthew offermann — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 15:01:21 -0400

The one thing that seriously pisses me off are the AP polls. They in no way make any sense and screw every decent team out of their deserved rankings.Whoever made up the points system should be kicked by Chuck Norris in the balls. But now let me make my point about Texas Tech.

I know most people are saying something like they have not played anybody yet and the one thing anyone would remember is that they almost lost to Nebraska. Now the keyword is ALMOST. Unless it is official it should not matter.

This weeks polls puts Tech DOWN one spot to No.8. There are currently only eight teams that are undefeated in the top 25. Texas, Bama, and Penn ST. are all undefeated and are one,two and three. Now these three teams, respectively, deserve these spots. Honestly the teams I have a problem with are Florida, USC, and Oklahoma. More importantly Florida.

Oklahoma is reasonable because they lost to Texas and well Texas is a beast team. Florida lost to Ole Miss. Now let me repeat that FLORIDA LOST TO OLE MISS.

A team that is 3-4 beat a powerhouse like Florida. A team that has lost to Wake Forest, Vanderbilt, South Carolina, and Alabama. I don't have anything against Florida but why are they in they in the top five.

USC lost to Oregon St. Oregon State is 4-3, having lost to STANFORD, Utah, and Penn St.

I cant even begin to imagine how these rankings work. What do you guys think?

Jake Peavy in Pinstripes?

matthew offermann — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:17:56 -0400

I am sure by now everyone who pays attention to baseball knows that the ace from San Diego, Jake Peavy, has been placed on the trading block. You may also have heard that Atlanta has been heavy on acquiring Peavy.

Peavy has said that he wants to go to a playoff-contended team. Peavy also has a full no-trade clause and has to approve any trade first.

Jake has mentioned some teams he would like to be traded to: St. Louis, Houston, LA Dodgers, Atlanta, and Chicago. Obviously, Peavy would prefer to stay in the NL. However, Peavy's agent has hinted that he may accept a trade to New York.

The Yankees, as any fan would know, need pitching badly. Peavy has been a topic in Yankee meetings.

So that brings every Yankee fan to wonder, who would they trade to get him?

The one person that I think would be in that trade if it happens would be Robinson Cano. It would definitely take more than that to reel him in.

So all you Yankee fans out there, what do you think would be a good trade to get the Padres' ace?

MLB Playoff Predictions

matthew offermann — Sat, 13 Sep 2008 12:06:59 -0400

I know it may be too early to pick teams that will make it when there are so many that are not mathematically out of the race yet, but here is my logic.

AL East vs AL Central

Tampa Bay vs White Sox

As of now the White Sox lead the Twins by one game and it is still close. The Sox, however, have a four game set against the Yankees, and three game series against the Royals, Indians, and a crucial one against the Twins.

The Twins have a four game set against the Rays, and three game sets against Baltimore, the Indians, The Royals and of course the White Sox.

In the end I think the Sox will have a 2.5 game lead going into the playoffs.

The Rays will send out Kazmir for game one and they will never look back.

The Rays will take this series 3-1.

AL West vs AL Wild Card

Angels vs Red Sox

This will probably be the first time all Yankee fans will watch a Red Sox game without them playing the Yankees but for good reason. The Angels should have plenty of rest going into the playoffs and will whip out the broom and take the Red Sox.

I am not making this pick out of hate but the wild card is a close one and it may go down to the last game and I don't see the Sox going straight through into the playoffs still strong.

Angels sweep it 3-0.

NL Central vs NL West

Cubs vs Dodgers

The Dodgers do not play the Diamondbacks anymore so they cant gain serious ground on them so the West should be taken by the Dodgers. The Dodgers may have won the division but that is where it ends. They will put up a minor fight but they will be going home early this year.

Cubs win it 3-1.

NL East vs NL Wild Card

Phillies vs Brewers

Yes, you read right. The Phillies are playing strong and should make it. The Brewers are a shoe in for the Wild Card. The Brewers will be too strong in the first two games with C.C. and Sheets that the Phillies will be demoralized and then pick up the sweep on game three.

Brewers sweep 3-0.

ALCS

Angels vs Rays

This will be a great match-up between the two teams that have pretty much dominated the American League all year. This series should go all the way to seven but in the end.

Angels win it 4-3.

NLCS

Brewers vs Cubs

Yet another good match-up between two division teams. They have played each other enough to make it so that it will not be easy and each other will know the players weaknesses and strengths. It will be a hard fought series but in the end I think pitching will entirely win this series.

Brewers win it 4-2.

WORLD SERIES

Brewers vs Angels

The Brewers have pitching but the Angels have hitting. This will be a Goliath vs Goliath series. The Angels will start out strong but the Brewers wont give up.

Game 1—Angels

Game 2—Angels

Game 3—Angels

Game 4—Brewers

Game 5—Brewers

Game 6—Brewers

Game 7—Angels

Winner:

ANGELS

In the end the Angels will do what the Yankees could not in '04 but none the less the World Series Champions will be the Angels.

The Top Ten Most Embarrassing Sports Injuries: A Tribute To Carlos Quentin

matthew offermann — Fri, 05 Sep 2008 16:53:39 -0400

Injuries are part of all sports. Very few players in every kind of sport make it their entire careers without getting hurt in one way or another, but what about the injures that are the case of showboating or anger? These are the ten dumbest injuries that should never have happened:

10. Sammy Sosa

Ordinarily, one might think this would be impossible to do but just ask Sosa how it feels. A while back when Sosa still played the Cubs had a game at PETCO Park. To everyone else it seemed like a regular game but to Sammy it spelled disaster.

Soon after Sosa walked into the clubhouse he did a simple task. He sneezed two times. What makes these sneezes unique is that Sammy INJURED HIS BACK while doing so. Soon everybody was talking about how it was his fault for sneezing. I dont blame them. Who can't control when they sneeze?

9. Adam Eaton

Obviously Adam's mom never told him not to play with knives. Ok so he wasn't playing but still. Adam had bought a DVD and couldn't get the plastic cover off so naturally he got a knife to cut it open.

Somehow the knife slipped and Adam ended up stabbing himself in the stomach. Quickly he went to the hospital and got stitches. Im guessing whoever put the plastic on the DVD was an Angel fan.

8. Paulo Diogo—Servette FC

There is a reason most men don't wear there wedding rings at work. I'm pretty sure Paulo doesn't any more. In celebration for an assisted goal, Diogo climbed a fence and as he was about to jump down his ring got stuck and he left it and most of his finger on the fence. So if you ever need a reason to tell your wife why you don't wear your ring, use this story.

7. Marty Cordova

The Cardinal rule for baseball is to never make the first or last out at third. The cardinal rule for tanning is never fall asleep. Marty I guess never heard of that rule as the '95 AL Rookie Of The Year for Baltimore went out to tan, proceeded to fall asleep, and awoke looking like an Oompa Loompa. Good thing he is good at baseball.

6. Carlos Quentin

Most of you reading this have probably already heard that the AL leader in home runs has a fractured wrist and is probably out for the rest of the season. What you might not know is how he fractured it.

In a rush of anger at the plate for missing a pitch Carlos punched his hand that was still on the bat and fractured his wrist in the process. Anger management would be a better way to rid of anger, not fracturing your wrist when you're leading your league in home runs.

5. Derrick Mason

Staying on the subject of broken wrists, the WR of the Ravens thought he was helping out for a good cause but ended up hurting his own. In a charity golf event, the wideout took an awkward swing and broke his wrist. The only funny thing about this story was he tried to get a mulligan out of it but was denied.

Talk about dedication, but Mason should stick to the sport he knows.

4. Bill Gramatica

If you think about weird injuries most people would think of jumping in celebration and falling awkwardly. That's just what happened for the kicker for the Miami Dolphins. After making a field goal the kicker jumped up in celebration, but as he landed he tore the anterior cruciate ligament in his non-kicking knee.

3. Jack Del Rio

I put this one on Jack Del Rio because basically it was his fault. After wanting his players to keep on keeping on so to speak, Jack put a block of wood and an axe in the locker room and required his players to take a hack everyday after practice.

Punter Chris Hansen finished his work out early and went to take his hack. He missed and made a deep cut in his leg. Immediately Chris was rushed to the hospital. Good job coach.

2. Kevin Johnson

Normally after making a game winning shot your teammates may give you a high five or put you on their shoulder. Not Charles Barkley, he takes the "hurt you" approach. After making the game winning basket Johnson was greeted by Barkley who wrapped him up and squeezed very hard and dislocated his shoulder. I guess some people don't know their own strength.

1. Gus Frerotte

Most people reading this have probably guessed by now that this bonehead (literally) move was going to end up atop the list. In 1997, in one of the few games he played (now we know why), Gus scored a go ahead touchdown against the Redskins. To celebrate, he ran to the wall that he though was padded, well actually it was padded—with concrete—and head butted it. He felt dizzy and was rushed to the nearest hospital to treat his head injury.

So some injuries just happen and some athletes make them happen. These guys made them happen in the most idiotic ways—and I guarantee they want them back.

Milestone Day For Yankees

matthew offermann — Tue, 02 Sep 2008 16:47:29 -0400

Today was a great day for Yankee fans everywhere. Not only did Mussina get win number 17, but Joba had a great outing late in the game.

The Yankees beat the Rays 7-2 today at Tropicana Field in Tampa Bay. Mike Mussina was the winning hurler as he went six strong innings. Mike allowed the only two Ray runs while giving up 10 hits, and fanning eight, and walking only one.

The victory puts the moose only 33 away from 300 wins. This was win number 267 and put Mike all alone in 34th all time moving past Bob Feller and Eppa Rixey. The win against Tampa was his 19th of his career which he is now tied with knuckleballer Tim Wakefield with 19 against Tampa Bay all time.

On the offensive side Alex Rodriguez went two for three with his 30th home run of the year. This was number 548 and it tied A-Rod with Mike Schmidt for 12th all-time.

Xavier Nady also had a home run and two RBI's in the game as well as Johnny Damon Legged out a triple.

Joba Chamberlin, who was only just activated earlier today got some work in as he went in for 1.1 inning while allowing just one hit and one walk. Hopefully this is a sign of things to come for the Bronx Bombers.

MLB's Five Most Overrated Players

matthew offermann — Sun, 24 Aug 2008 16:05:21 -0400

5. Travis Hafner

There is only one real reason that the veteran first baseman is on this list—INJURIES. He has a career .280 AVG with 114 home runs in seven seasons. Hafner has not hit .300 since 2006 and fell down about 20 home runs from '06, when he hit 42, to '07, when he hit 24.

Still a young player, Travis has time to fully recover and be really great. I think that the injury will encourage the slugger to come back stronger than ever. Cleveland fans, the clubhouse, and Travis will all do whatever possible to make sure that happens.

4. Carlos Delgado

What ever happened to the New York Mets? Rightfully, the entire Mets team should be at No. 1, but since they are leading their division, I guess I'll only use the biggest one on their team.

From hitting four home runs in a game to praying to get four in a month, Delgado has got to be the most disappointing player on the Mets. Now, I'm not saying he isn't good, but Carlos has not hit over .265 since joining the Mets and really has disappointed a lot of fans. He had a good run, but it may be time to hang 'em up.

3. Nomar Garciaparra

Remember that guy, a long time ago, in Boston who used to say, "Hey Nomar, hit a homar," he has been replaced with a guy from L.A. that says, "Hey Nomar...just make contact".

Injuries and age have plagued the once-great shortstop. Nomar used to be compared to future Hall of Famers Derek Jeter and Alex Rodriguez. He has not hit more than 20 home runs in about five years and has not hit over .300 in two years, yet all I hear about is how great he is and how he is still an All Star.

Overall, he was a great player, but it might be about that time.

2. Barry Zito

Back in Oakland, the awesome lefty deserved every bit of hype he received...now, not so much. His last year in Oakland, Barry was 16-10 with a 3.83 ERA. The next year in San Francisco, he was 11-13 with a 4.53 ERA.

There is no possible way that the teams in the NL are harder than the AL. Even this year he is 8-15 with a 5.31 ERA. The first year in San Fran was the first year in a seven-year span that Zito did not get more wins than losses.

The one division that is lucky to have one team finish over .500 and an All Star pitcher comes over and flat-out sucks. I honestly do not know what to say about this.

1. Andrew Jones

{cough}{cough} Sorry about that, I was doing my impression of Andruw Jones (a.k.a. The Most Overrated Player in the world). This year, in 74 games, he has hit only three home runs.

In his first year in Atlanta, he hit five in 34 games. Now he's serving up a great .161 AVG with an amazing 14 RBI. The Braves are in the NL East, the Dodgers are in the NL West. Think about that for a minute. Pretty much the biggest disappointment and definitely the most overrated player ever.

Top Ten Underrated Baseball Players

matthew offermann — Sat, 23 Aug 2008 16:21:16 -0400

10. Jason Bay

I know everybody now knows Jason because of the Manny trade but I picked Bay for reasons before the trade. He was very under shadowed in Pittsburgh; mostly because he was in Pittsburgh.

From '04-'07 Bay had a .280 AVG with 114 home runs and 376 RBIs. He became the one player that was referred to as the Pirates. Bay pretty much led the team and was the best player on it who nobody knew or gave much credit to.

9. Jarrod Saltalamacchia

Although he is still young and has time to break through, Jarrod has shown great skill. He was acquired by the Rangers in the Mark Texiera trade in 2007 and has shared time at catcher with Gerald Laird.

Jarrod will ( I think) prove to be an all-star caliber player. He has not yet been a sure fire starter but in the next couple of years look for Saltalamacchia to become a common name.

8. Bronson Arroyo

Most people know Arroyo from the 2004 ALCS when Boston (luckily) came back from three games back to beat New York 4-3 but what about now. After 2005 Arroyo went to Cincinnati. Since then in '06 and '07 he has amassed an 3.76 total ERA. In his first year with the Reds he showed that not only could he pitch but he could hit as well.

Bronson since then has hit four home runs, two in his first year hitting alone. Still Bronson has fallen off the map once again mostly because of the team he is on, but his stats are still there and Arroyo is a great pitcher.

7. Zach Duke

With a career record of 25-37 and a 4.49 ERA most people would think of one word to describe it ( I wont say it but I'm sure you know it). I would like to put another word in your head...TEAM. You cant blame everything on the team but in this case I would.

A number one starter, Duke has been the best pitcher on the team by far. Zach has yet to have a winning season, but when your on a team that wins maybe 67-68 a year it becomes challenging because as you all know if you cant hit you cant pitch no matter how great you are.

I think only one thing can make him show his true colors...a change of scenery.

6. Austin Kearns

Kearns isn't what you would call a great outfielder but I would rather have him in the outfield than someone like Alfonso Soriano. Stat wise you might think im nuts but if you have ever seen him play you would understand.

Kearns always goes the extra mile, never misses a backup, and is just a great all around player. I didn't choose Austin on stats and I can't really explain it but if you want to know what I'm talking about you just have to watch him play.

5. Aubrey Huff

Aubrey Huff was a beast with Tampa Bay before they were good. As a power hitter Huff hit .290 for his first six years with TB. Huff has kind of been passed around as in 2005 he was sent to Houston, back to Tampa,and finally landing in Baltimore.

Aubrey has had five years in which he has had a 1.000 fielding percentage and is a great fielder. Age and the game have stopped Huff from playing outfield but he is still a dependable first and third baseman.

4. Grady Sizemore

Since 2005 Sizemore has been a lead-off and speed guy. He has never had less that 22 steals in a season but on a downside he has never hit over .290 either. Still a great overall player. Grady has the ability to be any type of hitter.

He can hit for singles, stretch them into doubles, use his speed to make it a triple, or as we have seen this year he can also take them yard.

This year his home run total has been the most in his career and he was also in the Home Run Derby this year. Not to mention fielding, never in his career has Sizemore had less than a .991 fielding percentage.

3. Bobby Crosby

The Rookie Of the Year winner has been nothing but spectacular since the first day he stepped onto a field. Although his career batting average is .240 Crosby should, by the end of his career be in the hunt for a spot in Cooperstown. Just an all around awesome ball player.

Fielding, Base running, hitting. All of these things are done to the best of his abilities. So while he might not be the Derek Jeter type of shortstop; at the end of his career I think Bobby Crosby will share a home with him in Cooperstown.

2. Adam Dunn

When you watch Adam Dunn step into the box everyone is asking themselves the same thing... home run or a strikeout? I am sure everybody knows Adam and if your reading this wondering why he is up towards the front or even on the list. I put Dunn at number two (haha) because most people think he is a strikeout king and I cant say I blame them but you have to think around the stats.

Dunn brings out the meaning of " taking the good with the bad". Adam has never hit over .264 and never had less than 126 strikeouts in a year. However, Dunn can do what anybody who hits under .264 can do. From 2004 on Dunn has had a span of 40+ home runs every year and will probably do the same this year.

A good fielder and obviously a power hitter Dunn is a great player if people will see past the strikeouts.

1. Joe Nathan

Joe Nathan is (to me) the most underrated baseball player. Joe truly started to shine when he came to the American League from San Fransisco. His first year as a twin he set a career high mark when he got 44 saves. Joe also became first pitcher in club history to record 36-or-more saves in four consecutive seasons.

This year every ones attention is on K-Rod and for good reason. However Joe should rightfully be up there with him. When Nathan hangs up his glove I would bet anything and everything that it will be in Cooperstown.

Dan Haren: Take Off Your Shoes...Stay A While

matthew offermann — Tue, 05 Aug 2008 16:09:33 -0400

Last December right handed pitcher Dan Haren was in a huge trade involving the Oakland A's and the Arizona Diamondbacks. The Diamondbacks acquired Dan Haren and Connor Robertson from the Oakland Athletics in exchange for Brett Anderson, Dana Eveland, Greg Smith, Chris Carter, Aaron Cunningham and Carlos Gonzalez.

The Diamondbacks took a chance on Haren in exchange for six good prospects. It appears that the change of scenery was good for Haren because he wants to stay for a lot longer and he just got his wish.

Haren was asked about how it was in Arizona and the hurler replied, "I knew I'd like it here, I've said before I didn't know I'd like it this much. The guys have been great, the team is exciting to watch and it's fun to have them play behind me."

The Diamondbacks have just signed Haren to a four-year extension that is worth $44.75 million. This deal should keep Dan in Arizona until the 2013 season. The deal states that Haren will be paid $7.5 million next year, $8.25 million in 2010 and $12.75 million each in 2011 and 2012.

The team option is for $15.5 million, and if the D-backs choose not to pick it up they must pay a $3.5 million buyout.

This year Haren is definitely earning his keep. In 23 starts Haren is 12-5 with a 2.75 ERA, which is the top five in the National League. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Dan Haren, Arizona fans, and Dan Haren fans, for that matter, all hope this deal helps them all to the number one goal, a world series title.

Milwaukee Brewers Fight Cincinnati Reds...Then Themselves

matthew offermann — Mon, 04 Aug 2008 17:30:13 -0400

Monday night the Milwaukee Brewers lost to the Cincinnati Reds 6-3, while trying to get back on track in the NL Central.

The Brewers have been trying to catch the Cubs for first place, and are currently 5.5 games behind in second place. Recently the team hasn't been doing so great as they have gone 3-7 the last ten games and have lost two straight.

Bronson Arroyo was on the mound for the Reds and helped out his own cause with a fifth inning double that plated Jay Bruce and Jolbert Cabrera. Bruce hit a two-run home run and Joey Votto hit a two-run single to account for the Reds. The Brewers got their runs from Ryan Braun and Mike Cameron each hitting solo shots and a Cory Hart RBI single.

The real story came in the seventh inning when pitcher Manny Parra left the game for a pinch hitter and as he walked to the dugout first baseman Prince Fielder walked up to him and they exchanged words. Fielder then pushed Parra twice before the team could pull him away.

Although it was not clear what was said, manager Ned Yost said after the game “If you want to know what happened or what transpired—blow-by-blow or what words were said—I’m sorry, you’re not going to know, It’s private. It’s between us, and it’s not a big deal. And it’s not the first time it ever happened, and it won’t be the last.”

The Brewers need this stretch of games to get back in the race with Chicago as they will face in consecutive games the Nationals, Reds, and Padres. All of which are last place teams and could drastically help lift Milwaukee to if not over Chicago.

Are the Minnesota Twins Really the Minnesota Lirianos?

matthew offermann — Sun, 03 Aug 2008 17:52:00 -0400

At the beginning of the year, the Twins' fans were asking themselves two questions: Will Liriano ever be back, and will we make the playoffs. One question has been answered, but what will the answer to the other one be?

Obviously, it takes more than one person to win a game or a championship, and especially the World Series, but can the return of one player make that happen.

Francisco Liriano has recently been called up from AAA Rochester to the Minnesota Twins. There are different angles to look at why he was called up. You could say it was his agent's work, or you could say it was his impressive pitching.

Liriano was 10-2 with a 3.28 ERA in 118 innings for the Red Wings this season. In his last 11 starts, he was 10-0 with a 2.67 ERA and 80 strikeouts in 70-2/3 innings. When anyone compiles stats like that, you need to take a hard look at your team to see who needs to go down.

The Twins have designated RHP Livan Hernandez and OF Craig Monroe for assignment and called up Liriano to take Livan's place.

Greg Genske, Liriano's agent, lately has spoken to the player's union to have them investigate why Liriano hasn't been called up after going 7-0 with a 2.73 ERA in his past nine starts. "I think that Francisco is dominating down there," Genske said "The club concedes that as well. We're a little frustrated he hasn't been called up."

Now that Liriano is back, do the Twins have what it takes to hold the lead? In Liriano's first start back, the phenom went six innings, allowing just three hits, three walks, and fanning five. Ironically, that 6-2 win over the Indians propelled them into first place when the Royals beat the White Sox 14-3. The Twins now hold a 62-49 record, with a half-game lead over the White Sox.

Tomorrow, the Twins take on the AL's worst team, the Seattle Mariners, and have Glen Perkins on the mound against Miguel Bautista. It is the first of a three-game set before getting a day off and then continuing to Kansas City. The schedule is there for the taking. The only question is: Can they take it?

Which Division In Baseball Is The Toughest?

matthew offermann — Tue, 29 Jul 2008 18:58:14 -0400

It has been the most frequent asked question in America. Whose division is harder? Well, for starters and im sure everyone knows its not the NL west just to get that out of the way. the only real way to tell is to break down the teams.

NL West:

No, probably not the toughest division, but without a doubt the most challenging one. This year the Diamondbacks and the Dodgers are in a tight race, with Arizona out in front by a game with their 53-52 record.

The millions of dollars going to Andrew Jones will be going out the window if the choice of benching him because of recent slumps goes into effect. This division has got to be the weakest, but I do understand that they play a lot of good teams and it is hard for them to stay or to get over .500, but come on.

Arizona is the only team over .500, and the rest are down by one, 6.5, nine, and 12 games, and of course it's not only about standings because every team has its strengths and weaknesses, but Brandon Webb is basically carrying the team. LA has some solid players, but with the loss of Nomar they're trying to fill out the infield. I really can't go further into detail about the rest because it is kind of crazy.

NL Central:

Without a doubt the greatest division in the NL. The Cubs are having an amazing year on the 100th anniversary of the goat. The Cardinals are always good, and the Brewers are up there too. Houston, Pittsburgh and Cincinatti are 12.5, 13, and 13.5 games back and I don't think they will be making a comeback, but who knows.

The Cardinals have had a lot of problems, but they are still battling with injuries and players in slumps. It is currently the only division with three teams with 60 wins with the Cubs at 63 and Brewers and Cardinals at 60. With recent aquireage (yes, I just made that word up), of C.C. Sabathia the Brewers have been good of late, winning all of his starts except on the 28th, when he received his first loss.

NL East:

New York, Florida, and Philly are the teams in the race since Atlanta is 8.5 games out and Washington has the worst record in baseball. The Mets have a great lineup and look to continue with their lead and take it into the playoffs.

Having the league leader (tied with A. Dunn) in home runs on your team is always a good thing to have, and the great play of Chase Utley has put the quickest team to 10,000 losses into contention. The Marlins and the strong bat of Dan Uggla have brought the last year's 71-91 team back from the dead. The Braves just traded away their best player (my opinion) and Tim Hudson may be out for the year, so it is hard to believe they will make a run for it. The Nationals record is 38-68. Enough said.

AL West:

Here we find the best team in baseball up to date, as the Angels and their 66-40 league leading record are way out in front. Also, with today's trade that landed them Mark Texiera, and with K-rod on pace to stomp a mud hole into the save record, they are only going up from here.

The Angels have the best road record with a 35-19. This is the only division where I'm pretty sure 99.9% of people will agree that the Angels are a shoe-in for the playoffs.

Texas and rising star and RBI leader Josh Hamilton are trying their hardest to catch the Angels, but I think the effort will come up short. Oakland is battling Texas for the number two spot. And the Mariners are not playing up to potential.

Texas, Oakland and Seattle are 11.5, 13, and 26 games back. I know the 26 games back may make some people think that they are the worst team in the league, but you have to take the Angels into consideration, as the have a 66-40 record and it is basically every game they win and Seattle loses it's like they fall back five games. I don't think they totally suck, but the effort is for naught, as LA is just too strong.

AL Central:

This is where the most determined team, the Detroit Tigers call home. The White Sox and the Twins are in a dead race with a 59-46 and 59-47 record each, with the White Sox out in front by .5 games. The Tigers have scratched and clawed their way back from a horrible span of games.

Chicago and Minnesota have gotten in front and stayed out front, the Indians went from third to last, and the Tigers came back like a bat out of hell and of course the Royals are the Royals. This is a division that I think has finally cooled down, and nobody should move up or down too much, but like I said before this is baseball and anything can happen.

AL East:

Finally a winner. I hate to do this because I am a huge Yankee fan and I do like to be fair, but this has got to be the most challenging division. From the Rays coming out of nowhere and the fierce rivalry of the Yankees and the Red Sox to even the Blue Jays.

This is the only place where only one team is below .500. Tampa Bay has the best home record of 40-16. The AL East is the only place where for the most part every team has a chance to win the division. The Yankees just received Xavier Nady and Damaso Marte from the Pirates for some minor leaguers which they hope to add some good play to the outfield and another solid pitcher.

So in order we have

1. AL East 2. NL Central 3. AL Central 4. NL East 5. AL West 6. NL West

I'm sure a lot of people don't agree with the way I put it, but this is just the way I think it is.

Kyle Busch: Man or Machine?

matthew offermann — Sun, 13 Jul 2008 11:40:06 -0400

There is no doubt that Kyle Busch is having a dream season this year in just about every NASCAR event. In standings he is 20th in Craftsman Truck Series, fifth in the Nationwide Series, and of course he is leading in the Sprint Cup Series.

These numbers may not look too good to some people, but when you think about the hectic schedules and how many times in a season a driver might need to be in five places at once, it's really pretty impressive. Most impressive are the performances he is executing in the No. 18 MNM's Joe Gibbs Car this year.

He is leading in points and is out to an enormous 262-point lead over Dale Jr. Kyle also has 12 top fives and 13 top 10s to go with the seven wins. In 19 races he has won seven. The last person to do better was the greatest racer of all-time, Dale Earnhardt, when he won seven out of 18.

In 2004 Kyle was just learning the ropes as he only ran six races with his best finish at 24th in California as he finished 52nd in points. At the end of 2004 he was announced as Hendrick's full-time driver of the No. 5 car.

When he first started out in 2005 he had a great rookie season, finishing 20th in points with one pole, two wins, nine top fives, and 13 top 10s. This was of course with Hendrick Racing which uses Chevys.

In 2006 he moved up 10 spots to finish in 10th with one win, one pole, 10 top fives, and 18 top 10s. Once again it was with Hendrick.

In 2007, his last year with Hendrick, he moved up once again to finish in fifth. He had one win, no poles, 11 top fives, and 20 top 10s. Kyle announced at the end of 2007 that he was moving to Joe Gibbs Racing

As you read all of these stats, look at how much he was improving throughout his career—how he jumped from 52nd to 20th to 10th to fifth. And this year he is in first.

I have heard a lot of people saying that it's just luck or it's the Toyota cars. In the end this could be true, but look at the facts. He drove a Chevy and gradually moved up in points every year he raced. If you go by the pattern, this year he should be No. 1.