Bleacher Report - Articles by Ty Jackson

To the Series...And Beyond!

Ty Jackson — Wed, 08 Apr 2009 00:31:30 -0400

Every year sportswriters make their predictions. For years I have listened to the stupid remarks in Sports Illustrated and more without a word of protest except for "Yeah right!" However, this year I will make my predictions!

AL East

To be honest I am really liking the Red Sox on this one. They are the deepest team with pitching and have arguably three or so MVP candidates in Pedroia, Youkilis, and Big Papi (Finally!) They are definitely clicking together and should have a nice medium lead in the tough east.

AL Central

I really don't know how but the Twins are good enough to earn my choice as the team to beat in the AL Central. They have high quality hitting, defense, and nice pitching. Their only questions going in seems to me is if the rotation will stay healthy and the pitchers leading to Joe Nathan.

AL West

The Angels have taken hits. They are all a year older. However, they still manage to have a great team. Torii Hunter and Vlad can still produce and their staff is very deep.

Wild Card

I have to pick the Rays because they are looking pretty good. However, they look like they might not be as affective now that teams are ready for them.

NL East

The Mets are gelling offensive wise and look to have fixed their heart-wrenching bullpen problems. However, their starting rotation is so-so after Santana and Pelfrey. Perez is inconsistent and Maine isn't overpowering. With their money they could do better. I also think their lineup should be changed to:

Jose Reyes
Carlos Beltran
David Wright
Carlos Beltran
Ryan Church
Daniel Murphy
Luis Castillo
Schneider/Castro
Pitcher

NL Central

The Cubs are the most complete team in the NL Central and have few questions with their team and the few that exist are very small such as Kevin Gregg as closer or Carlos Marmol.

NL West

I believe this is the weakest division in baseball. (See previous article) However, I will pick Arizona. While their offense is weak I think their pitching is better overall than the Dodgers. This is a real dark horse pick but I think they have what it takes to buckle down and take the title.

Wild Card

The Dodgers and Cardinals both came to mind when picking this. To be honest, Manny really made me think. However, one man is a bit much. I am going to pick the Cardinals because of their nice staff and great offense anchored by Prince Albert.

AL Champions

Red Sox over Rays

The Red Sox seemed to only have lost last year because of their injuries. Theo addressed this with his acquisitions and everyone injured seems back to form. I will look forward to an exciting series with intense feelings (see Coco Crisp).

NL Champions

Mets over Cubs

The Mets seem to have a better overall team offensively complete on both sides of the dish and with practically lights out pitching.

World Champs

Red Sox over Mets

The Red Sox have proved time and time again that clutch IS real and should be reckoned with. Ortiz, Varitek, Drew, Pedroia, Youk, the list goes on. When the going gets tough the Red Sox hit big. I see K-Rod struggling in the regular season with walks and homers in the World Series.

With Theo Epstien, a third trophy in Boston looks inevitable.

The D-Train Now D-railed.

Ty Jackson — Tue, 07 Apr 2009 23:54:53 -0400

What happened to Dontrelle Willis? The D-Train! You know him! Twenty-two wins in 2005, a title in 2003! Kid struck out 170 batters in 2005 and seemed like he would ride high forever.

But then came 2006. Control issues led to leading the league in hits batsmen and a .500 record.

Then Willis, 27, was traded to the Detroit Tigers. What happened?

Some blamed the fact that he was under pressure to perform at the plate. Willis was known for his success at the plate during his NL tenure, including a grand slam in 2006. However, come his move to the AL and he still didn’t perform.

Me? I think it was pressure in general.

In Florida he was touted as the newest ace in town. The best yet! A 22-game winner and World Series champ. Maybe pressure to perform got to him.

Pressure hit A-Rod and maybe even CC (Although CC being under pressure is questionable at this point.)

In Detroit, Willis was half of Detroit’s offseason pride. Now Willis is attempting to rebuild in Single-A ball and on the DL for anxiety, which may prove my point.

Why should we care about Willis?

He is just one of hundreds struggling to perform. The reason I give is simple: Potential.

His 2005 season proves it. Even during his bad seasons, he showed what he could do.

My solution is simple. Either one he goes Rick Ankiel or two he gets out of Detroit.

Rick Ankiel remade himself as a hitter after suffering similar issues and Willis already shows he can hit.

If Willis likes pitching too much my second choice would fit him.

See Detroit is not known for their great pitching coaches in recent years. See 2008 and early 2009 Justin Verlander.

However, a team like the Red Sox is world renown for their pitching program as Junichi Tazawa stated it was one of the reasons he signed with the Red Sox in the winter.

If done correctly Willis could once again be the golden child he was thought to be early in his career.

Backing Up The Bullpen

Ty Jackson — Sat, 10 Jan 2009 17:06:54 -0500

The Boston Red Sox used their bullpen to dominate in 2007. In 2008 the lineup of Manny Delcarmen, Hideki Okajimia, and Jonathan Papelbon stopped working. Time after time the late innings grew harder and harder to complete.

In the 2008 offseason the Red Sox started off by trading outfielder Coco Crisp to the Kansas City Royals for excellent reliever Ramon Ramirez. About a week after New Years they acquired John Smoltz, who is likely to pitch out of the pen. About a day later the Red Sox signed the biggest name of them all: Takashi Saito.

Saito is a 38-year old pitcher who has 14 years of experience in Japan, including four all-star appearances. In 2006 he pitched his first game for the LA Dodgers and soon after became closer. In 2007 he was named to his first National All-Star team and August Closer of the Month. 2008 saw injuries and only 45 appearances.

The Red Sox have Saito for one-year with a club option for 2010. His deal is worth $1.5-2.5 million with incentives that add up to $7 million. This pickup could become one of their best in the offseason and return them to world series glory.

Small Year For Big Papi

Ty Jackson — Fri, 09 Jan 2009 20:14:48 -0500

David Ortiz is famous for his clutch hits and big home runs. In 1993 David Ortiz was signed to the Seattle Mariners and played under the name David Arias. Three years later he was traded to the Minnesota Twins for Dave Hollins. Now No. 34 is a perennial all-star ever since his success in Boston and has never looked back.

In 2006, David hit the most home runs he has ever hit in a single season totalling 54. In 2007 he hit for a personal high .332. In 2005 he had the most runs and RBIs in a single season he has ever hit. 2004 was his year for doubles and triples.

In 2008 he made no personal single season records from games to slugging percentage. All year he played through injury and sat out 60+ games because of an injury to the left wrist and continuing pain. All fans of Big Papi are hoping for a comeback in 2009.

Nate McLouth: Diamond In The Rough

Ty Jackson — Mon, 05 Jan 2009 07:23:04 -0500

The Pittsburgh Pirates. 67-95 in the NL Central. Last place. Things have been dismal for the last place Bucs. But, there is a bright future.

Nate McLouth is arguably the best Pirates hitter after Jason Bay was traded mid-season in 2008. He hits for power, with 26 home runs. He is fast, boasting 23 stolen bases in 26 attempts. He is even a great fielder, earning his first gold glove in 2008, which proved to be his best year yet. He was sent to represent the Pirates in the 2008 All-Star game at Yankee Stadium. His clutch assist proved vital to keep his team in the game. Although the National League lost, Nate came away a winner.

In 41 games, Nate hit five homeruns in 2005 for the Pirates. In 2006 he made the team for the first time out of a stellar spring training. Since then his average has improved about .02 points per season. In 2008 he had a career year hitting .276. At 27 Nate will only improve. In years to come one could see Nate as a mainstay at the All-Star game.

Will the West Be Won? Previewing the National League West

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 13:45:47 -0500

The NL West is compromised of five teams. The Arizona Diamondbacks, Colorado Rockies, Los Angeles Dodgers, San Diego Padres, and the San Francisco Giants.

The division champions, the LA Dodgers were 84-78 in 2008. That's a .519 winning percentage. Third place Marlins had a better record in the NL East.

The Rockies won't get any better having lost Matt Holiday, Brian Fuentes, and Willy Taveres to free agency. With them they finished 74-88. Things look dismal at Coors Field.

The Diamondbacks were the only other team in 2008 to finish above a .500 wining percentage at 82-80. If starters Dan Haren and Brandon Webb stay consistent and the younger players produce the D-Backs are almost sure fire to win

The Padres went in a complete nose dive in 2008 from third to last. If Jake Peavy isn't traded and stays healty the Padres could be one of the few non-laughable teams.

The Giants got rid of Barry, but took on fourth place. The team from San Fran was 12 games behind the Dodgers in 2008. But, signing Edgar Rentaria and Randy Johnson could be key to redemption. Manny Ramirez rumors are a definite plus for the Giants to possibly contend in 2009.

Basketball On The Go: NBA Live 09 PlayStation Portable Review

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 12:23:18 -0500

NBA Live is EA's edition to the virtual basketball world. NBA Live 09 for the PSP features Tim Duncan on the cover.

I haven't played the game extensively yet but, from my experience the game plays differently on the system than last years edition. The game looks darker and the players feel slower. The PSP version also includes hot and cold players.

If one guy is in a slump he can barley make a shot. If he is on fire everything goes in. It is similar to MLB 08: The Show. When I scrolled through teams I found more FIBA teams, but the Thunder didn't have its name or logos. That was a little disappointing.

Gameplay: 3/5

Graphics: 3/5

Features: 5/5

overall 3/5

NBA Live 08 was a better game overall. You get used to the newer version but it just isn't as good on the PSP

The Hot Stove Has Some Sloppy Seconds: Free Agents for the Rest of Us

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 10:07:31 -0500

As January begins some teams' rosters still seem a little empty. The Red Sox never got that fourth outfielder. Don't the Mets still need another starter? Whatever happened to the Brewers? And the Tigers still need someone to finish the game.

He's no K-Rod, but Takashi Saito may be the only top notch closer role for the Detroit Tigers. Saito is 37 and won't be a long-term option, but a small deal may be the steal of the season.

The New York Mets rotation consists of:

Johan Santana
John Maine
Mike Pelfrey
Jon Niese

The rotation so far is acceptable but lacks in experience. Niese is a rookie and Pelfery was in 2007. Derek Lowe would make a good fit for the Mets if they paid him enough.

The Brewers had a lot of key players go to free agency and if they want to compete they need to get pitchers like Ben Sheets, John Smoltz, Curt Shilling, and others.

Billy Beane: The Crazy King of Oakland

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 09:42:55 -0500

Billy Beane is known for taking his low salary Oakland Athletics to the top. Homegrown players like Rich Harden, Tim Hudson, and Mark Mulder are a few standouts who have excelled in Oakland.

However, his players never seem to stay. Rich Harden was traded in 2008 in a six-player deal. Tim Hudson was traded for three players. Miguel Tejada cost too much to keep. Jason Giambi wasn't much better. Dan Haren, not homegrown, was traded for prospects before 2008. Only Eric Chavez seems like a mainstay.

But in the 2009 offseason Beane sent prospects along with Huston Street for Matt Holiday. This trade surprised me. Billy Bean traded prospects?! For an established player?! I couldn't believe he would make that trade. Maybe Street for three minor leaguers, but prospects for Holiday?! I couldn't believe it.

When this trade finally sinks in, many will wonder what this means. Is Beane going to change his ways? Will he start trading for more and more stars to create a powerhouse? Or is this just another way to grab some high level prospects?

Maybe Beane has his eye on a young power hitter or a future ace. One can only wonder going into the 2009 season.

The 2009 World Baseball Classic Preview: All The World's A Stage

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:45:05 -0500

As 2008 is behind us, we must look forward to the upcoming year. In March, baseball fans will be looking forward to the season and may see one of the most exciting tournaments of baseball anywhere in the world.

The World Baseball Classic is held every three years and highlights the best professionals from around the globe. Players like Dustin Pedroia and Kevin Youkilis will team up to bring the gold home to the US. While A-Rod and David Ortiz will drop the Yankees-Red Sox rivalry to represent the Dominican Republic.

In 2006, Daisuke Matsuzaka became famous as the MVP for champion Japan. However, four years later, the teams have changed and it could be anyone's game.

Team USA will be especially formidable with the AL MVP in Pedroia, Red Sox teammate and second MVP runner up Kevin Youkilis, famed Braves third baseman and .400 chaser Chipper Jones, and maybe an appearance by New York Mets new setup man J.J. Putz.

However, Japan retains Ichiro and Dice-K still in top form to help protect its title.

24/7 Baseball: MLB Network Debut

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:32:08 -0500

Any baseball fan who pays attention to www.mlb.com during the offseason will see adds and a countdown clock to MLB Network a new in house baseball TV station. Viewers will see the faces of Matt Vasgersian, Al Leiter (pictured), and Harold Reynolds among others.

Some service providers to include the channel are Verizon Fios, DirecTV, Comcast as well as 30 something others. So far the channel shows programs about all time greats such as Roberto Clemente, greatest plays, and even the 2004 Boston Red Sox postseason run.

The network will show the 2009 World Baseball Classic and chosen matchups throughout the season. As well as a recap of every day on a show call MLB Tonight. MLB Network will be a treat to any fan who loves baseball.

Rough Road To Victory: Celtics Road Trip Troubles

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 07:12:24 -0500

The Boston Celtics have been known to be a dominant home team since their amazing comeback season.

But, they have been known to struggle on the road. Recently the Celtics lost to the Trail Blazers, Golden State Warriors, and the rival Los Angeles Lakers.

Is this a sign of trouble to come or just a small blip in the radar?

The Warriors dominated late in the game to beat the former champions, 99-89. Boston did lose a key player in James Posey to free agency and has weakened off the bench. Come time to step up, one must wonder if the Celtics are up to the task of defending their title when the clock is ticking.

The road troubles did not affect their record much and they sit 29-5 as of Jan. 2. But picture this: Game 7 of the NBA Finals the final minutes are on the clock. The game is tied. Will the reserves be able to do it? Do they have enough off the pine to win it all? Until then Celtics fans can enjoy the season as one of the top contenders in the NBA.

Baby Boomers: The MLB Rookies Of 2009

Ty Jackson — Sun, 04 Jan 2009 04:41:39 -0500

As the baseball season approaches in March of 2009, one wonders who may come forth from the minors and begin a career in glory. Last year, Evan Longoria lead the Tampa Bay Rays to the AL East pennant. In 2007 Jacoby Ellsbury took Red Sox nation by storm with a furry of postseason hitting. Who is waiting in the wings to show their stuff in 2009?

David Price was the 2007 No. 1 overall pick by the then Tampa Bay Devil Rays. In 2008 he finished his minor league career and joined the historic worst to first postseason run by the Rays. In 2009 Price still has rookie eligibility and shows promise to become one of the top pitchers in the league.

Matt Wieters is a relativly unknown 22-year-old catcher. However, he may be known soon. The Orioles soon-to-be catcher will most likely get his chance once 2009 rolls around to continue his minor league reputation as an on-base machine.

If anyone watched Olympic Men's baseball last summer you may recognize Matt LaPorta. A converted first baseman Indians fans may see LaPorta man the outfield with Grady Sizemore in the close future. LaPorta is a power hitter and played in the 2008 Futures game at Yankee Stadium. He was recently traded from the Brewers for CC Sabathia and will excite fans with power hits once he is done motoring through the minors.

Hanley In Boston? The Red Sox Pray.

Ty Jackson — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:46:37 -0500

The Boston Red Sox have reportedly been shopping prospects like Clay Buchholz, Jacoby Ellsbury, as well as others to the Florida Marlins for shortstop stud Hanley Ramiriz. The Red Sox see Ramirez as an outfielder while Jed Lowrie would play shortstop.

Although Ellsbury was a 2007 postseason phenomenon and third in 2008 rookie of the year voting, and Buchholz is famous for his no-no, I do not see this happening.

The Marlins may have made bad trades in the past but seem to see themselves as possible contenders for a Rays-esque turnaround. Hanley was recently given a long term contract and is highly valued as one of the top shortstops in the league and Jacoby and Clay are still unproven.

On the other hand, if the Red Sox unloaded a treasure chest of prospects, the Marlins could be enticed by the level of young talent on the table. However, based on Epstein's track record, such an offer is unlikely.

I belive the Red Sox shouldn't be wasting their time with offers that out of reach. They should focus on getting a young catcher like Jarrod Saltalamacchia or a fourth outfielder.

If a deal like Masterson and/or Bard for Salty, or Masterson and/or Bard for Miguel Montero and Eric Byrnes went through that would be a move to launch the Red Sox to another level.

Red Sox Quietly Land Two Important Free-Agents

Ty Jackson — Sat, 03 Jan 2009 14:29:38 -0500

The Boston Red Sox recently acquired two free-agents for the upcoming 2009 season, pitcher Brad Penny and catcher Josh Bard. This marks the two first significant major-league-ready signings for the Red Sox in the 2009 offseason.

Bard could possible fill the looming hole behind the plate at Fenway. He is .265 career hitter in seasons with Cleveland, San Diego, and a short stint with Boston. Although Bard is a potential starting catcher, the Red Sox do not dismiss the possibility of a trade with Texas or Arizona for a younger fit. Bard is 31 years old in March.

Penny, aged 30, signed a one-year, $5 million contract and could be a solid number four starter. Penny, formerly of the Dodgers and Marlins, had a rough 2008, spending most of it on the disabled list.

However, Penny had back-to-back 16 win seasons for the Dodgers in 2006 and 2007, as well as postseason success against the Red Sox rival New York Yankees. This could mark him as clutch pitcher and may be a good sign that he will be comfortable in his first American League rotation.