Bleacher Report - Articles by Jake Karmel

Welcome to Chicago, Jay Cutler: Where Quarterbacks Come To Die

Jake Karmel — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 23:42:33 -0500

There is a pattern here. The Bears have never had an All-Pro QB in the modern era. They've had only one QB Hall of Famer in 90 years.

Every great college QB prospect has turned into a bust. And now there are all the naysayers about Jay Cutler.

Is it that the Bears don’t know how to draft? Don’t know how to evaluate talent (although Burris, Quinn, Hutchinson, Moreno, and a few others make this a tough question)?

Is it the water in Chicago? I don’t think so.

Maybe it’s the Bears and not the QBs.

Why would any offensive-minded QB ever, I repeat ever, want to play in Chicago?

The Bears destroy any offensive-minded QB with their mindless and defenseless insistence on being called a “running team,” especially today when the rest of the NFL has passed them by in the air.

Marino, Montana, Elway, and Aikman could not have achieved the same success they did elsewhere if they had played on most Bears teams over the last 30 years. Now Jay Cutler is just the latest to be put through the career-destroying QB meat grinder in Chicago.

He is an extremely talented QB, but like any team athlete, he cannot do it alone. And I don’t just mean surrounding him with 10 other players that fit into what this particular QB is capable of doing.

Lord knows Cutler doesn’t even have three or four, let alone 10. But that’s just part of the problem. The real problem starts and ends with coaching and the organization’s overall philosophy.

The Bears insist on fitting Cutler—probably the most physically gifted QB I have ever seen in Chicago—into its standardized, one-size-fits-all playbook. They have not done anything to accommodate the team to Cutler’s talents, either with personnel or coaching.

Handing off to Matt Forte on first and 10 every time to run up the middle for a gain of two yards is the Bears’ forte. That's usually followed by a screen play that always gets busted up, leaving third and long.

It's way beyond predictable. It is comical.

They are the Keystone Cops of the NFL. FOX and CBS should have the “balloon” sound effects used for cartoons like the Roadrunner every time the Bears run an offensive play. Kaboom! Splat! Boink!

Why doesn’t Cutler roll out instead of standing in the collapsing pocket, throwing from his back foot all the time? Why don’t the Bears use misdirection plays more?

I’m no more of an offensive genius than Ron Turner, but I do know this much: After watching Cutler’s press conference last night I wanted to cry. He looked so broken and dispirited.

Another young gunslinger destroyed in the numbing inanity of the Bears organization.

If I were his agent I would pay the Bears to release him before he is turned into a quivering confused Rick Mirer, Cade McNown, or Rex Grossman.

Chicago Cubs Centerfield in 2010: Curtis Granderson or Kosuke Fukudome?

Jake Karmel — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 13:22:57 -0500

I've been doing my fair share of reading on this site among others about the Cubs' interest in Granderson and what people think of the possible acquisition. Very interesting.

Right now on the Cubs' depth chart, young gun Tyler Colvin is the starting center fielder. As of now, I don't see the Cubs taking a risk on the young guy by throwing him into the mix right away. At least I wouldn't.

For those of you who think Colvin is more than ready, do the names Felix Pie and Corey Patterson ring a bell? They were in the same exact position as Colvin. We all know how the two of them turned out. Let's not let Colvin turn out the same way. Give the kid some time. He's 24.

Let's look to the stats and contracts between Fukudome and Granderson.

Fukudome in 2009 was mediocre at best. That is being generous. He hit .259 with 11 home runs and 54 RBI in 146 games. Pretty amazing. Not.

Yes, his defense is very good in the outfield but that is not why he makes the big bucks.

Fukudome's contract is pretty ridiculous for the lack of production he provides. In 2009, Fukudome made $11.5 million. In 2010 Fukudome will make $13 million. In 2011 he will bring in $13.5 million and then become a free agent in 2012. For platoon numbers, Fukudome is not worth the big money he is making.

Let's take a look at Granderson.

In 2009, Granderson played 160 games. He did bat .249 but he had 30 home runs, 71 RBI, and 20 stolen bases. Besides his batting average, pretty good numbers.

In 2009 Granderson made $3.5 million. Granderson doesn't make above $10 million until 2012. The highest he makes is in 2013 if the club picks up his option. If not, free agent market.

Who could the Cubs give away?

If you look to the lack of talent in the Cubs farm system, they have a few names they could shell out. I could see the Cubs and the Tigers agreeing on a trade that includes Josh Vitters and a couple of pitchers. The Tigers SHOULD have a very keen interest in Vitters. Brandon Inge is always injured and when down, Vitters could fill that void.

Pitchers that could be included could be Samardzija, Cashner, and maybe someone like Caridad who showed promise or Gorzelanny who is still fairly young and talented.

If I were the Cubs and the Tigers, I would do a deal that looks something like this.

Josh Vitters, Tom Gorzelanny, and maybe Cashner or Samardzija for Granderson and a prospect from their system. Seems like a fair deal to me.

Jim Hendry, let's get it done.

Control of 133-Year-Old Chicago Cubs Franchise Finally Taken by Ricketts Family

Jake Karmel — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:40:25 -0400

In the Cubs' 133 year old history, the team has been owned by one of the founders of the National League, a sporting goods mogul, a chewing gum company, and a media company. The newest owner to the list, a family of Cubs fans.

On Tuesday, Tom Ricketts officially took control of the Cubs and 25-percent of Comcast Sportsnet. The deal was valued at $845 million.

Family members Todd, Tom, Pete, and Laura will form a board of directors. The Tribune Company will hold a five-percent interest in the team and sit on the board. Tom Ricketts will be the chairman.

"My family and I are thrilled that this day has finally come and we thank [Major League Baseball] Commissioner Bud Selig and Major League Baseball owners for approving our ownership," Tom Ricketts said in a statement on cubs.com. "Now we will go to work building the championship tradition that all Cubs fans so richly deserve."

The Ricketts family will hold a formal news conference on Friday during a travel day for the Yankees and Phillies.

Past owners have included William Hulbert, the first president of the National League, who took over the then named Chicago White Stockings in 1876. Albert Spalding took over as the team's general manager after the 1876 season. Spalding, became the team owner after Hulbert's death in 1882.

Spalding was followed briefly by James Hart from 1902-05, and sold the team to Charles Murphy for $105,000. Murphy was the owner the last time the Cubs won a World Series in 1908.

Charles Weeghman purchased the team as part of a syndicate, which included chewing gum executive William Wrigley, who took control in 1919. He was succeeded by his son, Philip, in 1932, and by his son, William, in 1977. The Wrigley family ended its ownership of the Cubs in June 1981, when they sold the team to the Tribune Co.

Under the media company, the Cubs have had 17 managers, including current skipper Lou Piniella, and won the National League East twice (1984, '89), the Wild Card once (1998), and the Central Division three times (2003, '07, '08).

They have not reached the World Series since 1945, and have not won it all since 1908, as us Cubs fans and the rest of the sports world know as the longest "dry" streak in professional sports.

"I just hope they keep trying to win-that's the bottom line," third baseman Aramis Ramirez said on cubs.com. "I hope they keep adding the pieces they need."

The sale was approved by the MLB Owners unanimously on October sixth.

My Chicago Cubs Wish List

Jake Karmel — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 23:44:12 -0400

This off season, the Cubs have a lot of problems to take care of. They need a second basemen, an outfield, some pitching, and some hitters. In relation to the holiday spirit, I thought I might as well create my wish list for the Cubs for this 2009-2010 off season. In this list, I will highlight the players I wish the Cubs will add and the players I wish they will get rid of. Take a look. NOTE: I name multiple people at the same position. I know that. I'm not saying sign every single person on this list. I'm saying these are the people I at least want the Cubs to look after.

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Bad News: Bradley Could Be Back in Blue in 2010

Jake Karmel — Fri, 23 Oct 2009 19:39:53 -0400

This is the worst news I have heard in a long time as a Cubs fan. Yes, worse then Aramis Ramirez out with an injury or when D-Lee got hurt a couple years ago. Milton Bradley could be back as a Cub in 2010.

Why?

Former Texas Rangers hitting "guru," Rudy Jamarillo is going to be the new Cubs swing coach in 2010. Apparently, he has a good standing relationship with Bradley, so this can't hurt right?

Wrong. I could care less about Jamarillo's relationship with Bradley.

If the Ricketts family wants to make 2010 like 2006, so be it. I will boycott Cubs baseball until Bradley leaves. Just like us fans did in 2006, I won't attend a game, nor will I watch this decrepit team on TV.

Hopefully the Ricketts family makes like the Tribune Company did the following year. Firring team president at the time Andy McPhail and spending lots of money. Only this time getting rid of Bradley.

I don't think Jamarillo could help Bradley. Milton needs more help then just a swing. He needs attitude help.

Teammate, Ryan Theriot said on the Waddle and Silvy show that the only time Bradley was happy was after he won a card game on the team plane. Even after home runs, the man was unhappy.

Why keep an unhappy teammate?

Jim Hendry, if you keep this poor excuse for a ball player and a teammate, you deserve to leave the organization. Fool me once with the signing of Bradley, shame on me. Fool me twice by keeping him, SHAME ON YOU JIM HENDRY!

Not only was he a poor excuse for a teammate, he was a poor excuse for a ball player. He underachieved. He hit .257 with 40 RBIs and 12 home runs! What a $10 million waste!

Dear Hendry. PLEASE, for the sake of Cubs nation, get rid of Milton Bradley. The time has come to rid the team of this "disease."

The Top 10 Most Annoying Fans in Sports

Jake Karmel — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 18:03:32 -0400

Fans make sporting events interesting. They cheer, taunt, and threaten. Fans are one of a kind when it comes to sports. They will [most of the time] support their team no matter what happens. Then there are the fans that annoy you until no end. The fans who support the losing teams and try to intimidate you because their team can't. Or the fans who brag just because their team won a world series five years ago. Here is my take on the top 10 most annoying fans in sports.

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What Dustin Byfuglien Has Riding on the 2009-2010 Season

Jake Karmel — Thu, 08 Oct 2009 15:38:12 -0400

Dustin Byfuglien was a no-name at the start of the 2008-2009 season for the Chicago Blackhawks. By the end of the year, he was one of the star players for the Hawks.

Who is Dustin Byfuglien?

He is the enforcer. The goal scorer. He is everything Joel Quenneville could want in a hockey player.

Dustin Byfuglien has the most riding on the 2009-2010 season.

Byfuglien last season had 15 goals, 16 assists, and 31 points in 77 games for the young and up-and-coming Blackhawks.

He needs to keep up the good work and not slump like other Chicago players did in their respective sports. (I'm talking about you, Alfonso Soriano, Milton Bradley, and Geovany Soto.)

If Byfuglien has a bad season, he could be run out of town. His right to play in Chicago is at stake.

New York, Chicago, and LA are the sports towns that put a lot of pressure on their athletes. They need to perform at their levels of expectations, or they will be trashed by the media and fans alike.

If Byfuglien gets off to a bad start this season, it could be a very long 2009-2010 if the Hawks decide to keep him. If they don't, it could be a very short one.

The exact start he needs? I don’t know. It has to be some kind of start that shows he is willing to hustle and be the kind of player Chicago knows he can be.

Why I Love Those Lovable Losers, The Chicago Cubs: Words From The Heart Part Two

Jake Karmel — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 21:38:01 -0400

I feel like the last article I wrote about why I love the Cubs didn't do it justice. There is much more to my love for the wretched Cubs then just: "Because we play two."

Here is why.

Being a Cubs fan, you build character. You may not think so, but you do.

For example, life is pretty easy being a Yankees fan.

You have seen 26 world championships, many Hall of Fame ball players pass through your park (a brand sparkling new park), and your team has the highest payroll in the majors.

Yankees fans complain if they don't win a World Series. They raise hell if they don't make the playoffs.

Cubs fans on the other hand, have a harder life.

We haven't seen a world championship in 101 years. We haven't seen a pennant in 64 years. We haven't even won a world championship in our current ballpark.

Keep in mind, Wrigley Field is the second oldest in the majors. Our payroll is high but our production is low.

Cubs fans have quite a tough life.

Being a Cubs fan, you are taught what it means to be loyal.

Why do we keep going back after 101 years? Cubs fans are the most loyal fans in baseball. Plain and simple.

I always complain about being fed up with the Cubs yet, every year I am in the same exact seats cheering for the same baseball team. Why? Because I am loyal.

I hear different fans all the time saying things like, "I am officially done," or "I can't stand this anymore. I'm selling my season tickets."

Cubs fans keep coming back for more. Why? Jimmy Fallon says it perfect in "Fever Pitch." The Cubs will always be there. They will always be out on the field come April, waiting for us fans to come back and watch.

Being a Cubs fan is an addiction. You always want more. I want more and I want 2010 to be here already.

Rock Chalk Blackhawk: October Preview of the Chicago Blackhawks

Jake Karmel — Tue, 29 Sep 2009 15:55:56 -0400

Get ready, Hawk fans. The season has come.

Many questions are yet to be answered though. As a die-hard Hawks fan myself, I'm very nervous for this upcoming season. I have no idea what to expect.

Let me break down what has gone down since last season.

Former GM Dale Tallon was fired and reassigned to a new job after the fallout with Marty Havlat. Havlat was never re-signed, and he eventually signed with the Minnesota Wild. Even after all the times Havlat said he wanted to stay in Chicago, the Hawks couldn't get it done.

The Hawks signed Marian Hossa from the evil empire (Detroit Red Wings) to a long contract to try to fill the Marty Havlat void. As of Sept. 29, Marian Hossa is out until mid to late November because he had offseason shoulder surgery.

Winger Adam Burrish is out at least six months with ACL surgery.

Also, Nikolai Khabibulin was never re-signed. As of Sept. 29, Cristobal Huet and Corey Crawford are going to split time at goalie.

Now, what can we expect for this season?

The young Blackhawks team will find a lot of success in their goal scoring. The team is still young. Even though they did lose Havlat, who scored 29 goals last season, the Hawks will be able to rebound with the help of Jonathan Toews and Patrick Kane, who had 34 and 25 goals respectively.

The big area of question is their goaltending. Last year, Huet got killed during the winter classic. He was taken out during the third period with five goals against.

Huet from the waist down is one of the best goalies in the game—from the waist up, one of the worst. You never know which Huet you will get: the Huet who can shut teams out or the one who will give up five goals.

By the end of the first month, the Hawks should be in okay position. The Hawks have eight out of 13 games at home this month. Two of the games are against playoff teams from last year, the Red Wings on the eighth of October and the Canucks on the 21st.

I don't expect the Blackhawks to win every game this month. I don't expect them to lose every game either. I think the Hawks will end up with a pretty decent 8-5 record to start the season off.

The matchups to watch will be the Hawks-Red Wings game on the eighth at Joe Louis Arena and against the Canucks at home on the 21st. If the Hawks keep it close against the Wings, this will be a good year. If they get blown out, we may have problems. Same thing for the game against the Canucks.

This will be a very fun team to watch once again. Although they did lose a couple of players, they filled the voids very well. Watch out for the young and quick Blackhawks to make some noise again in 2009-2010.

Chicago Bears Football: Running Game Looks Okay

Jake Karmel — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 23:24:05 -0400

I know what you're thinking.

Is this guy nuts?

The running game didn't look good versus the Packers! What is he thinking? Let me tell you what I'm thinking.

Yes, 25 carries for 55 yards is not very good.

For a first game, I'll take it. We all know what Forte is capable of. He isn't going to be putting up many more 2.2 yard per carry averages.

Last season, Forte posted three or more yards per carry in 13 out of 16 games. That is pretty good if you ask me.

Forte also had three 100 yard games last season and two multi-TD games. He'll be okay.

The offensive line in 2009 is pretty inexperienced.

They didn't do a good job on Sunday night. Don't expect to see that often as long as running-minded Lovie Smith is at the helm of the Bears.

What Needs to Happen

The offensive line needs to protect.

They didn't protect Cutler and they didn't make lanes for Forte. Forte is a very powerful, agile runner. He is going to find the lanes and explode through them.

In week two, the line has to beat the powerful D-Line of the Pittsburgh Steelers. This is a tough test for this line. I think they can do it. I think they can open up the lanes for Forte.

They need to run the ball more to the outside and to the edge.

Let Forte make a play. As long as the linemen pull their blocks to the appropriate spot, Forte will do the rest. Ron Turner has to get away from this up the middle stuff that no Bears fan likes.

We don't want a Frank Gore.

If Forte can get to the outside, he will explode. He is talented enough and fast enough to make something happen. Turner just has to call the right play and the Bears have to execute it.

Forte Prediction

In his rookie season, Forte put up pretty good numbers. He had 1,238 rushing yards and four touchdowns.

This season, I expect Forte to put up higher numbers.

I am expecting around 1,300 to 1,500 yards from Forte and hopefully in the neighborhood of four to seven touch downs. If Forte can produce numbers like those, the Bears will definitely be one of the most feared teams in the NFL.

Dear Jim Hendry: Make Like The Steelers and Throw in The Terrible Towel

Jake Karmel — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 23:01:07 -0400

The Cubs can be described in one word this season: Awful. That doesn't even do it justice.

I have been a Cubs fan for all my life and I think this is the most talent I've seen on a team in a long time. Can they produce? You tell me.

Jim Hendry needs to follow the ideas of the Florida Marlins after they won their World Series in 2003. He needs to do a fire sale. They need to rebuild, not just this team, the entire franchise from the ground up.

Start at the basics. Get rid of all your big salary players. Players like Soriano, Bradley, Zambrano, Fukudome, Ramirez, Lee, Dempster, Lilly, Gregg, Baker, Hoffpauir, Fontenot, and Miles all have to go. Just dump them.

The rebuilding time has come.

Guys like Ryan Theriot and Geovany Soto are guys you can build this franchise around. Also if Randy Wells matures into the stud he has shown signs of this year. The Cubs need to stop going out and spending big bucks on busts like Soriano and Bradley.

What were they thinking when they signed a 29-year-old Soriano to a seven year deal? Or how about Bradley to a three year deal? It sickens me to see this happen.

The young guys on this team are the guys they need to rebuild around. Maybe they don't mature. I'm willing to take the gamble that they will.

Imagine this starting lineup for 2010. Sam Fuld leading off and playing center field followed by Ryan Theriot at shortstop, Blanco or Scales at second, Jake Fox playing first base, Soto behind the plate, Vitters at third, Brandon Guyer and Tyler Colvin filling out the final two outfield spots. Maybe with Randy Wells as your number one stud guy.

I like that.

Jim Hendry please make happy for once and do something like this. The worst that can happen is they are still a bad team. I'm willing to take the gamble.

Why those young guys you ask?

Josh Vitters hit .316 this year in A ball. Yes it is only A ball but he is 20-years-old. He is a freak.

Brandon Guyer hit .347 with two home runs and 23 stolen bases in A ball this year.

Tyler Colvin is hitting .300 and 14 home runs with AA Tennessee this season. Enough said with him.

The rest of the guys we all know as Cubs fans.

Keep in mind that the team I named is without any other transactions. It would be nice if they went out and got one big name, veteran player to lead this young group. Someone like a MARK DEROSA or a Matt Holiday. Someone who has proven themselves in the MLB and someone who is capable of being a leader for a team of young guys.

Let the fire sale begin.

Jake Karmel

Chicago Bears Breakdown 2009: What to Expect

Jake Karmel — Sat, 05 Sep 2009 02:49:06 -0400

This year, the Chicago Bears are in for a real battle in the under-appreciated NFC North division. With the addition of Jay Cutler, the Bears can only better their pathetic 9-7 showing in 2008. What is going to come of the Bears this year?

Packers

When the Bears open their season up versus the Packers at Lambeau, the Bears are in for a real tough battle. Here is my position by position breakdown.

At quarterback, Aaron Rodgers vs Jay Cutler is probably the most interesting match up in the NFC North. Both like to throw the ball long and like to move around a little in the back field. Both are very talented and in my opinion, this is a push.

At running back, I give the Bears the edge. Matt Forte is a little more mobile than Ryan Grant coming out of the back field. Ryan Grant is much slower and isn’t much of a power runner. Forte can go up the middle like a power back or make moves and break a run to the outside like a fast back.

At wide receivers, the edge goes to the Packers. I can’t really fight Greg Jennings and Donald Driver versus Earl Bennett and Devin Hester.

On the defensive side of the ball, I am a little biased. I have always liked the Bears defense and I think this year they will make huge improvements over the depressing 22nd ranked pass defense.

Even though Dvoracek is out, the Bears D-Line will still rival the best lines in football like the Giants. With Tommie Harris, Alex Brown, Adewale Ogunleye, and other guys who rotate, they will be a force to be reckoned with.

The only thing in question is their defensive backs. The edge definitely goes to the Packers. The Bears are filled with a bunch of unknowns at defensive back. Yes, Vasher and Tillman aren’t unknowns but they have a lot to prove. They both had pretty disappointing years in my opinion. With the loss of Mike Brown, guys like Zack Bowman and Craig Steltz have a lot to prove. Hopefully they can fill the void of Brown.

One thing worries me about the Bears versus Packers match up. I am worried if the secondary can hold up against the explosive wide outs from the Packers. Can Vasher and Tillman stay healthy enough to keep up with Jennings and Driver?

I think they can. Rod Marinelli will get this team ready to play and ready to prove themselves.

Vikings

This is a very interesting match up in my opinion. With the addition of Brett Favre, I have no idea what to think of the Vikings now.

At quarterback, I have no choice but to give the edge to Brett “The Ego” Favre. He is a much better improvement over what the Vikings used to have. He holds many records and his experience trumps Cutler’s talent any day of the week.

At running back, the Vikings also have the edge. AP 28. Enough said.

At wide receiver, I give it to the Bears even though Earl Bennett and Devin Hester are much more inexperienced than Bernard Berrian. The thing that made me pick the Bears is the fact that after Berrian, who do the Vikings have? Sidney Rice? He is about as good as Johnny Knox.

I like the Bears defense better. The Vikings pass defense is much better but the Bears run defense is better. The Bears are better up front but the Vikings are much better in the secondary.

What scares me about the Vikings is the fact that they won the division with Tarvaris Jackson. If they are that talented, what will they do with Favre? Will Favre make Berrian better?

The Vikings will improve greatly this year. No division for them but a definite wild card.

Lions

The Lions had a tough season last year. 0-16 is a rough finish. The Lions will be bad but not as bad as 0-16.

At quarterback, the Bears have the advantage. Matt Stafford and Daunte Caulpepper are both worse than Jay Cutler. Cutler is so much better and talented than both. Daunte used to be better in his prime, but not now.

At running back, the Bears are better. Matt Forte is much better than Kevin Smith. Matt Forte can run to the outside or run up the middle. Kevin Smith cannot.

At wide receiver, the Lions actually get the advantage. Calvin Johnson gives the Lions the advantage. Calvin Johnson is just too talented to not get the edge over mediocre wide receivers like Earl Bennett.

On the defensive side, the Bears get the advantage. The Bears are just better up front and in the secondary. The Lions are just not good at all.

The Lions worry me with their wide receivers. If Matt Stafford lives up to the hype, how will Calvin Johnson play? Or Dennis Northcutt? Will those guys play to their potential?

In my opinion, Stafford won’t live up to his potential so the Bears will not have anything to worry about with the Lions.

What to Watch For

As a fan, you should be in for a very high scoring division. With Cutler, Rodgers, and Favre leading the North, who knows how many points the Bears, Packers, and Vikings will score. The limit is unpredictable.

The match up to watch for is in week one; the Bears versus the Packers at Lambeau Field at 7:30 on Sunday Night Football. It will be a high scoring affair and a very good game. Keep an eye out for that.

With Gregg Out as Closer, What's Next?

Jake Karmel — Tue, 18 Aug 2009 18:25:00 -0400

The Chicago Cubs and Lou Piniella have finally come to their senses. It is likely that Kevin "Blown Save" Gregg is finally not the closer anymore for the north siders.

That is the equivalent to a birthday gift for a Cubs fan. As a Cubs fan, I am so happy that Gregg is finally out. No more blown saves. Yes!

But what's next? Who takes Gregg's place at the closer role?

Many Cubs fans are thinking Carlos Marmol should be thrown into the closer role. I disagree.

Marmol has had a lot of control and pitching problems this season. Marmol isn't the lights out guy he was last season. This season Marmol has four blown saves. His save percentage is 50 percent. That is unacceptable!

Who else can we turn to? Marmol? No. Gregg? No. Marshall? No. Guzman? Maybe.

Guzman is the best choice out of everyone on the Cubs. In 52 innings, Guzman has walked only 15. Less than both Gregg and Marmol. In 52 innings, Guzman has given up only 36 hits.

He has a nasty slider like Marmol and a good fastball. He has the control to be the closer and knows about the poise. We won't know until he enters the closer role.

All three men have closer type stuff. They all have the talent to do it. It is just about executing.

The verdict is that Guzman should be the new closer for the Chicago Cubs.

2009 NFL Season Predictions: Awards Edition

Jake Karmel — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 17:36:37 -0400

One of the most interesting things to predict in the NFL is who will win the NFL season awards. Will someone like Tom Brady win the MVP or will someone new snatch the award come seasons end? How about coach of the year? What about the Lombardi Trophy? Many questions loom going into the 2009-2010 NFL season. Who will win what? I am here to answer such a question.

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2009 NFL Season Predictions

Jake Karmel — Thu, 13 Aug 2009 15:06:22 -0400

September means only one thing when it comes to American men. Football. Football is finally here. No, not the football you kick around with your foot and score goals. Sorry Europeans. The rough and tough tackle pigskin football. That means only one thing for American men like myself. We have to predict what is going to happen this season. Will Jay Cutler be the savior for the Bears? Which rookie will breakout? Who will be the surprise team? I'm here to answer all of those questions.

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The Chicago Cubs Need a Win: Something Has To Give

Jake Karmel — Tue, 11 Aug 2009 12:23:24 -0400

The Cubs need a win. They need a win badly.

It seems as if the team is heading back to their old ways: Instead of losing games, they're finding ways to lose. Just some how, some way.

Yes, to all the optimists, the Cubs have only lost two in a row. The only thing is, this late in the season you can't lose two in a row when the team you're trying to catch is winning.

With the 11-5 loss last night to Colorado, the Cubs have fallen three full games back of the St. Louis Cardinals.

The Cubs are a talented team. They have the skill to get the job done. They have the pitching, the fielding, and the hitting to win this division.

They have one thing going against them, however.

The team has been so hurt this season. Right now the Cubs have eight players on the disabled list.

The Cubs need all the help they can get. Ramirez, who just came off the disabled list, is day-to-day with left shoulder soreness. That is definitely not the kind of news a Cubs fan wants to hear right now.

Three starting pitchers are on the DL, two of whom are everyday starters. One was brought in to take an injured pitcher's spot.

Ted Lilly is still on the DL with left shoulder inflammation. He is due back mid-August.

Zambrano is on the DL with back muscle spasms. He is due back mid-to-late August.

New pitcher Tom Gorzelanny is on the DL now with a left foot contusion. His return is unknown.

You can't win a division with three starters on the DL in August. It just won't happen. The Cubs are in need of a lot of help in the starting rotation.

Boy, the Jake Peavy deal sounds good right now. Too bad the Sox beat us to it. (Great job, Jim Hendry.)

The verdict is the Cubs need help and need to keep ground with the Cardinals in the division and the Rockies in the wild card or bye-bye playoffs in 2009.

Chicago Cubs in Need of a Win: Game Four Preview

Jake Karmel — Mon, 10 Aug 2009 18:05:21 -0400

Tonight, at 7:40 ET, the Chicago Cubs and Colorado Rockies are going to square off at Coors Field for the final game of their four game set. So far, Colorado has two wins and Chicago has one.

Tonight's pitching match up features new guy, Tom Gorzelanny (4-1) for the North Siders and Jorge De La Rosa (9-8) for the Rockies.

Gorzelanny made a great first impression in his debut for the Cubs. He threw 7 1/3 innings of three-hit ball against the Reds back on Aug. 4. He even helped himself with a RBI single.

Gorzelanny has one goal for his time in the majors. Cut down on his free passes. He did just that in his last start by only giving up one walk.

Hopefully he can continue that trend tonight.

De La Rosa is having a decent year so far. The lefty is 9-8 with a 5.00 ERA along with 120 strike outs.

Against the Cubs, De La Rosa is 1-0 with a 0.00 ERA in four relief appearances covering 6 1/3 innings.

My Prediction

I think the Cubs will take game four against De La Rosa.

The Cubs have a very potent right handed lineup. With guys like Soriano, Soto, Lee, Ramirez, Theriot, Bradley, and Johnson.

The Cubs are a force to be reckoned with.

The Cubs have proven themselves as of late to be real contenders in the NL Central this season once again, and they should not be taken lightly.

My Top Five Unsung Bears Heroes of All Time

Jake Karmel — Fri, 07 Aug 2009 11:38:30 -0400

The Bears have had a lot of great players over the years. A lot of players who will never find a place among the best in Canton. Included in my list are Bears players that have left a lasting impact on me as a fan. These people worked hard and it showed on the field. They deserve more credit than some of the players we know and sometimes love today.

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Chicago Cubs' Tom Gorzelanny Throws a Gem

Jake Karmel — Wed, 05 Aug 2009 14:05:58 -0400

The newest member of the Cubs, Tom Gorzelanny, threw a gem on Tuesday night versus the Reds.

When Gorezelanny was pulled in the eighth inning, the Cubs fans in the crowd of over 17,000 at The Great American Ballpark in Cincinnati gave Gorzelanny a well deserved standing ovation. A little unusual for on the road if you ask me.

"It was great," Gorzelanny told cubs.com. "It shows how big this team is, having more fans here than the home team. It's definitely a different feeling coming from where I came from. It was something I'll probably remember for a while."

Gorzelanny was acquired from the Pirates in a five-player deal on July 30.

On Tuesday, Gorzelanny held the Reds to three hits and one run over 7 1/3 innings. It was a pretty good debut if you ask me.

"What a nice first impression," Hill said of Gorzelanny. "It's really good for him to get off to a first start. It's going to be big for us."

Gorzelanny has not made a major league start since September 10 and hasn't pitched any big league ball since June 9.

After June 9 Gorzelanny was sent down to the Pirates' Triple-A affiliate, Indianapolis. Gorzelanny made 15 starts and acquired a 4-1 record.

Gorzelanny really made an impression on skipper, Lou Piniella. He maintained his velocity throughout his start and only walked one.

Gorzelanny is scheduled to start two more games before Lilly returns. His next game is set to be Sunday in Colorado.

Once Lilly returns, the Cubs will have to make a decision on what to do with Gorzelanny.

Gorzelanny hopes to remain on the big league club and do what ever the team needs him to do.

Chicago Cubs' Kevin Gregg Has Tired Arm

Jake Karmel — Tue, 04 Aug 2009 18:03:10 -0400

If you're a Cubs fan, you know the troubles closer Kevin Gregg has had over the past few games.

In his last two appearances, Gregg has blown both save opportunities even though one turned out to be a win.

If you were to ask Gregg, he would say he is ready even though Piniella wants to give him some time off for his tired arm. Yes, my fellow Cubs fans. That means an even worse nightmare has come true. Carlos "Wild Thing" Marmol will be closing.

"I think we'll give [Gregg] a little time off tonight," Piniella said before Monday's game against the Reds. "Hopefully, we can give him some time off tonight and tomorrow. He has a little bit of a tired arm. There's no pain in any particular area, but just achy. What I'm going to do is talk to him, and if that's the case, we can stay away from him. We've got to know it."

Closers take on a lot of responsibility. Piniella knows that. Most closers believe they can pitch through anything and Piniella is being realistic.

Most Cubs fans accuse Gregg of being terrible because of how interesting he seems to make games. Let's be realistic. His last 10 opportunities before Saturday, Gregg was 10-for-10. He is 21-for-26 on the season. Not bad.

What's next for Gregg?

Nothing. Nothing is of worry here in my opinion.

Gregg will get some time off to get his strength back, and he'll come back and convert his next 10 chances. He has the stuff to do it.

Aramis Ramirez: The Catalyst The Cubs Have Been Looking For?

Jake Karmel — Tue, 28 Jul 2009 22:27:11 -0400

Aramis Ramirez went down with a terrible injury this past May verse the Brewers when he dove for a ground ball and hurt his shoulder. People thought he would never be the same this year.

People thought he would be just like Derrek Lee when he came off his wrist injury. It pretty much took Lee a season and a half to get his power back.

Even Ramirez doubted himself. He was quoted as saying, "I can't hit a home run if my life depended on it."

He was wrong. Everyone was wrong.

Ramirez went down with the injury on May 8 and stayed on the DL until the beginning of July. During that time the Cubs struggled. They never played anywhere better than .500 ball.

Now he has returned and boy what a difference he has made!

Since his return, Ramirez has hit .313 with four home runs and 17 RBI in 16 games. He's back with a vengeance.

Since Ramirez's return, the Cubs have been pushed up into first place ahead of the Cardinals. As of July 28, the Cubs are a half a game ahead of St. Louis.

What a coincidence this is. Before Ramirez's injury, Soriano had 13 home runs. During the 50 or so games he was out, Soriano hit one. Since Ramirez's return to the lineup, he has hit four more home runs. Coincidence or not?

What about this? With Ramirez in the lineup, power stroke or not, other hitters are given protection. Maybe with Ramirez in the lineup, Milton Bradley will start to hit again.

The Cubs should try this situation.

Last year, Bradley hit in front of Josh Hamilton. Hamilton gave him lots and lots of protection. He saw fastballs all day and look at the season he had. He was an all-star.

I say put Bradley in front of Ramirez for a few weeks. The worst that can happen is Bradley continues to either get walked (which won't happen because pitchers won't want to face Ramirez) or he gets out. It is worth a shot.

This is a scary thought. Since Ramirez really got his stroke back which was after the break, Lee has hit for a higher average than ever before. Through 11 games, Lee is hitting .357! Not to leave out the fact he has three home runs and seven RBI.

Ramirez is the catalyst the Cubs have been looking for. Like I've said before, with the return of A-Ram look for the Cubs to make a run in the second half.

NEWS: Jason Schmidt Set To Start on Monday

Jake Karmel — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 02:47:35 -0400

Former Giants ace, Jason Schmidt is set to start for the Dodgers on Monday versus the Cincinatti Reds after he is activated off of the 60-day disabled list.

Yes my fellow bleacher creatures. The same Jason Schmidt who has made three All-Star teams and was the runner up for the Cy Young Award in 2003. The same Jason Schmidt who left the Giants after the 2006 season to sign a $47 million deal with the Dodgers.

Where has he been?

Schmidt had shoulder surgery in 2007 and hasn't pitched since. After pitching a mere 25 2/3 innings, Schmidt had shoulder surgery to repair a torn labrum and a frayed biceps tendon in his right shoulder that June.

Let me put it this way. The Dodgers have used 18 starting pitchers since the last time Jason Schmidt pitched 25 months ago. How soon you forget about once dominant pitchers.

Schmidt has made eight rehab appearances with stops in Class A and Triple-A. He compiled a record of 3-1 with a 3.65 ERA.

Joe Torre told the San Jose Mercury News on Saturday that they will have to see what he still has. He knows Schmidt won't be the same velocity-wise but he believes Schmidt is a smart guy and seems to know how to pitch well within his ability.

Schmidt has had a solid career so far. He has compiled a career record of 128-94 with a 3.94 ERA in 13 years of Major League service.

Jake Karmel

UPDATE: Injured Cubs Are Making Good Progress

Jake Karmel — Sun, 19 Jul 2009 01:44:17 -0400

Saturday got off to a good start when the questionable Alfonso Soriano was added to the Cubs' lineup before their night game versus the Nationals.

Soriano, who had a swollen finger on his right hand, came out with a bang and helped lift the Cubs to their 6-5 victory with a home run in the sixth inning. That was Soriano's first home run in over seven weeks.

Things are looking up for the All-Star left-hander, Ted Lilly. Lilly was supposed to pitch on Saturday but was replaced by Randy Wells due to some inflammation in his knee. Lilly said he could have pitched on Saturday if he really needed to.

Lilly told cubs.com that the only thing the knee is doing is holding him back from doing a lot of work on his off days to stay in shape. He said, "It's nothing major."

Dempster isn't far off from returning either. He pitched a side bullpen session on Saturday. This was his first time throwing off a mound since he was placed on the disabled list July 5 for a broken toe. Pinella called the bullpen session, "Okay."

Piniella stated on cubs.com about Dempster's progress. "The bone has to start showing calcifications and fusing together, and that's what we're waiting for. I think before we make any concrete determination [as to when Dempster can pitch], he'll have to get another X-ray. He threw today and he was OK. He passed the first test. Before we can push him any further, he'll have to get another X-ray."

Dempster expects to have another X-ray on Thursday when the Cubs return to Chicago from their road trip in Washington and Philadelphia. If all goes well, Dempster could go throw a simulated game instead of go back to the minor leagues and be inserted back into the rotation by late July.

Catcher, Geovany Soto is still rehabbing at the Spring Training facility in Mesa, AZ. He is expected back in early August if all continues to go well.

Jake Karmel

Report: Lily and Soriano Are The Latest to Be Bitten By The Injury Bug

Jake Karmel — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 02:30:12 -0400

The injury bug is still going around in the club house on day two after the break. Left fielder, Alfonso Soriano and All-Star pitcher, Ted Lilly are the latest to be bitten.

Soriano was scratched from game two versus the Nationals because of some swelling in a finger on his right hand. Soriano dislocated the finger after sliding into first base on Thursday night in the fourth inning. Soriano said of his injury, "The problem now is the swelling is too big and I cannot [grip the bat]."

Soriano says he isn't worried about the pain. He just wants the swelling to go away so he can swing a bat.

The outfielder was never a disabled list player until he was signed by the Chicago Cubs.

Manager, Lou Pinella, thinks Soriano will be ready to play in a few days. He doesn't think the swelling in his finger will go down in one day.

Lilly was the scheduled starter on Saturday but he has been scratched due to some inflammation in his left knee. Rookie stud, Randy Wells, has been chosen to take his place in Saturday's game three of the four game series versus Washington. Kevin Hart, who was sent back down to Iowa after his start on July 8 to keep him on schedule, will start game four on Sunday.

Lilly will now tenatively open up the series versus Philadelphia on Monday.

Apparently the knee has been an issue for a few days now. "When he came back here [Thursday], his knee was bothering him, and the last couple starts he's had, it's bothered him somewhat," Pinella said of his All-Star lefty. "We'll see."

Hopefully they both make a quick return to the lineup.

Jake Karmel

The Five Greatest Cubs Players of All-Time

Jake Karmel — Sat, 18 Jul 2009 01:17:01 -0400

The Cubs have had some awesome players over the years. Players like Ron Santo, Ferguson Jenkins, Greg Maddux, Ryne Sandberg, and the list goes on. What about the no names? Who makes the top five list? Do I put Santo over Mad Dog? How about Mr. Cub over Lee Smith? Decisions, decisions, decisions, decisions. What do I do? Let's take a look.

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Bear Down: Chicago Bears Season Preview

Jake Karmel — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 18:12:41 -0400

The Bears have had an interesting offseason, to say the least. They signed Jay Cutler and Orlando Pace, had an interesting draft, and lost their injury-prone and once pro bowl safety Mike Brown.

What happens next?

With the opening of training camp on the horizon, the Bears still have to address a lot of questions before the start of the 2009-2010 NFL campaign.

Questions like: Is Jay Cutler going to be the Jay Cutler from the Broncos? What is going to happen with the wide receivers? What about the secondary? Who is going to replace Mike Brown? Is Urlacher too old?

The questions can go on forever. I'm here to answer them (or at least try).

Jay Cutler

As everyone knows, the Bears won the Jay Cutler sweepstakes last May. Chicago Bears fans were so happy knowing that we actually have a quarterback on our team, something that hasn't happened since before the days of Jim McMahon.

But will Jay Cutler be the same Jay Cutler of years past?

I say yes, but he won't be throwing the 40+ touchdowns like he did in Denver.

In Denver, Cutler had Brandon Marshall, Brandon Stokley, and Eddie Royal. That group is much better than what is in Chicago.

In Chicago, there is Earl Bennett, Juaquin Iglesias, Derek Kinder, Johnny Knox, Eric Peterman, Brandon Rideau, and of course Devin Hester. None are as proven as Marshall, Stokley, or Royal.

Don't get me wrong. Cutler is very good. But he needs someone on the other end to catch the football. He can't throw it, then run and catch it. I wish he could.

As Bears fans, we can't expect Hester to run down field and catch every ball thrown to him. We saw how good Hester was when Orton or Grossman tried to throw the ball down field. He dropped almost every ball.

With all of that said, will Cutler improve the offense?

Yes.

Cutler gives the Bears the arm they have always looked for. He is someone who can throw on the run while throwing few interceptions. He is someone who isn't Rex Grossman.

Orlando Pace

Orlando Pace, the three-time pro bowler, is a definite plus for the Chicago Bears. Pace is a left tackle who played 12 seasons for the Rams. He will help the Bears offensive line immensely.

The offensive line was a definite trouble spot for the Bears this past season, allowing 29 sacks. That number doesn't seem too high, but for the Bears it is.

The running game couldn't really get anywhere, either. Yes, Forte rushed for over 1,000 yards, but he could've rushed for much more if he had the same line as Brandon Jacobs or someone else of that caliber.

The Secondary

The Bears secondary is always a topic of conversation among Bears fans.

In passing yards given up per game, the Bears are 30th in the NFL (241.2 yds). In touchdowns, the Bears are 13th (21).

The secondary needs to be improved, badly.

Who is in the secondary now that Brown is out?

As of Jul. 17, the cornerbacks on the team are Zack Bowman, Randy Burgess, Marcus Hamilton, Trumaine McBride, D.J. Moore, Charles Tillman, Woodny Truenne, Nathan Vasher, and Danieal Manning. The safeties on the team are Al Afalva, Josh Bullocks, Dahna Deleston, Glenn Earl, Corey Graham, Kevin Payne, and Craig Steltz.

The cornerbacks are fine. The safeties, not so much.

The Bears need to get a safety who can be the captain of this young group. Danieal Manning could fill that void for a few weeks but not in the long run. Steltz and Payne are too young to do that. They tried that last year and it didn't work well.

Schedule

The Bears open the season with a tough game at Green Bay. They end the season with an easy game at Detroit.

Here's a game-by-game prediction:

Week 1: At Green Bay

Winner: Green Bay

Week 2: Vs. Steelers

Winner: Pittsburgh

Week 3: At Seattle

Winner: Chicago

Week 4: Vs. Detroit

Winner: Chicago

Week 5: At Atlanta

Winner: Atlanta

Week 6: At Cincinnati

Winner: Chicago

Week 7: Vs. Cleveland

Winner: Chicago

Week 8: Vs. Arizona

Winner: Arizona

Week 9: At San Francisco

Winner: Chicago

Week 10: Vs. Philadelphia

Winner: Chicago

Week 11: At Minnesota

Winner: Chicago

Week 12: Vs. St. Louis

Winner: Chicago

Week 13: Vs. Green Bay

Winner: Chicago

Week 14: At Baltimore

Winner: Baltimore

Week 15: Vs. Minnesota

Winner: Chicago

Week 16: At Detroit

Winner: Chicago

Final Record: 11-5

Jake Karmel

NEWS: Dempster and Soto Could Return Soon

Jake Karmel — Fri, 17 Jul 2009 15:43:15 -0400

Near the end of the first half, the Cubs were bitten by the injury bug once again. Geovany Soto and Ryan Dempster both went on the DL.

Dempster, who broke his toe on July 5, has been throwing on flat ground and doing cardio work while he waits for the inflammation to go down in his right big toe. Reports are pointing to Dempster returning possibly in late July.

Pinella gave some encouraging words when it came to Dempster. "Talking to Larry [Rothschild, pitching coach], he seemed to think the second [turn in the rotation] after the break is not out of the question."

Dempster had his big toe examined again on July 15. He had another x-ray and it came back clean. A definite good sign if you're a Cubs fan.

Soto, who strained his left oblique, has been working at the minor league complex in Mesa as of July 17. According to Cubs.com, Soto is making great progress and the team doesn't feel the need to look for outside help at the catcher position.

Assistant General Manager, Randy Bush said on cubs.com, "We're exploring other things but we're also encouraged that Geovany Soto—we're hopeful—he's feeling really good the last few days. We're hopeful he's turned the corner and this could be a short-term thing. We don't want to put any time frame on it. We're encouraged where he's at."

Soto's backup, Koyie Hill, will be back behind the plate Friday for game two of four versus the Nationals. Jake Fox, who caught the final two innings of the night game last Saturday, will continue to be the backup to Hill.

Jake Karmel

Why the Cubs Are the Team to Beat in the Second Half

Jake Karmel — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 18:26:49 -0400

This may sound crazy, but I firmly believe the Cubs are the team to beat in the second half. As injury-prone as they are, they are a force to be reckoned with.

They had a million and a half problems during the first half of the season. Some major problems included Milton Bradley's very poor first half, the injury bug that has affected many players, the slow start by the bullpen, Soriano's struggles, and so on.

But all of that is changing.

You're probably thinking, "Why does he think this? What possible reasoning could this crazy guy have?" You want to know? Check this out.

Injury Bug

The Cubs are starting to get healthy. Just imagine this team healthy. If they can go .500 without Ramirez for most of the first half, Soriano and Bradley basically MIA, EVERYONE getting out to a slow start, and the struggling early days of the pen, just imagine what they'll do when this is fixed.

Soriano's knee was a topic of conversation ever since he started his slump. The All-Star break can only do good for Soriano and his knee. Soriano has played in 80 of 86 games during the first half. Imagine that. Playing 80 games on a sore knee. I'd be in a slump too. Give the man a rest during the upcoming series versus Washington. The Nationals are terrible, so there's no need to play him.

Ramirez was really missed during the first half. Ramirez has been the guy who drives in all the runs for the Cubs over the past few seasons. With Ramirez out, no one has been there to do it. Yeah, the last month and a half D-Lee put the team on his back, but before that they weren't scoring. During a six-game skid earlier in the season, the Cubs were scoring half a run per game!

Since 2004, Ramirez's first full season, Ramirez has hit .302 with 158 home runs and 526 RBI. He's had over 100 RBI four times during his first five full seasons with the Cubs.

Bullpen

In the beginning of the year, the entire pen was struggling. Gregg was blowing saves, Marmol couldn't (and still can't) find the plate, Heilman and Guzman were struggling, and the starters were inconsistent.

In April, Gregg's ERA was a disgusting 5.59. In 9-2/3 innings pitched, Gregg gave up six earned runs. He had only one save.

May was still a struggle, but it was a little better. His ERA was 3.86. In 11-2/3 innings he gave up only five earned runs. He had seven saves in May.

He really came around in June. His ERA was 2.77 with five saves—much better if you ask me.

16 days into July, Gregg hasn't given up an earned run. He's appeared in six games and faced 24 batters. He has three saves already this month.

What I'm trying to say about Gregg is he is really starting to come around. At the beginning of the year, I was scared whenever he appeared. Now I feel like he's a solid closer. I have more confidence when Gregg comes in.

Soriano's Struggles

Soriano was finally moved down to the six hole in the order by Lou Piniella. Good move, Lou.

In the last seven days, Soriano is batting .308. He's starting to hit the ball much better, and he definitely looks better at the plate knowing he isn't responsible for getting this offense started. He isn't a leadoff hitter by any means.

For $18 million a year, Soriano is worth it. No matter if he is only batting .233 so far this year.

He will come around. He is a major league hitter. He hasn't forgotten how to hit. With the pressure of being the leadoff hitter gone, watch out.

Milton Bradley

Last year, Bradley had the security of Josh Hamilton hitting behind him. He was seeing fastballs all day. Bradley should be given that same security this year. Yes, Bradley should bat third or fourth. Possibly second.

Bradley needs someone hitting behind him. He needs to see good pitches to hit. He got that last year and he was an All-Star. He doesn't have that this year.

Bat Bradley before Lee or Ramirez. See what happens. Just throw him there for a couple games, and see if he gets pitches to hit. It should be interesting.

If it works out, then Bradley will finally get going. If not, he will be no worse then what he is now. So what's the harm then?

Schedule

The schedule for the second half is pretty easy.

They start off in Washington for four games. If the Cubs don't take three games, they're in trouble. After that, it gets a little harder. They go to Philly for three, followed by home games against Cincinnati and Houston.

The Cubs' remaining opponents are 651-712 with a .478 winning percentage. I'd think that is pretty easy.

The Cubs team last year isn't much different than the team this year. The only difference is this year the team is struggling. Last year, they ran away with the division.

Within their division, teams are struggling. The Cardinals got off to a hot start, but have recently played .500 ball like the rest of the division. Expect them to continue that trend.

The Brewers have been hot as of late, but they are like the Cubs. They are very inconsistent.

Final Result

The Cubs are going to win the division. I expect them to go 44-30 in the final 74 games. Their final record will be 88-74.

The Baseball Hall of Fame: Who's In and Who's Out?

Jake Karmel — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 00:48:19 -0400

Alright kids.

This is a game I like to call, "In and Out."

I'm going to name a player, decide who gets in and who stays out, and give reasons why.

Here are the verdicts.

Pete Rose

Is this even a question?

Pete Rose holds one of the most unbreakable records of all-time.

He was convicted on gambling charges and was given a lifetime suspension from the game. There are worthier things he could've done than gamble.

Rose, who played 24 seasons, was a career .303 hitter with 4,256 hits. He made 17 All-Star teams, won the 1963 Rookie of the Year, the 1973 MVP, the 1975 World Series MVP, two gold gloves, and a silver slugger.

How can you tell me stats like these don't belong enshrined in Cooperstown?

I'm not done.

Rose won three batting titles, led the league in OBP twice, hits seven times, games played five times, and doubles five times.

Major League Baseball, please put Pete Rose in Cooperstown.

For the sake of the game.

Mark McGwire

Mark McGwire is a little tougher. Many people believe he should be in, and many believe he should be out.

I believe he shouldn't be in.

He was only a career .263 hitter in his 16 seasons. He only won one gold glove and three silver sluggers. Yes, he made All-Star teams, but he wasn't very good other than his 583 career home runs.

No other stats jump out at me.

He only had 1,414 RBI in his career.

He only stole 12 bases.

He struck out 1,596 in his career.

He has no other hall worthy stats other than his 583 dingers.

Shoeless Joe Jackson

No one gives him credit because he was "part" of the eight men out. Shoeless Joe couldn't have had any part in the scandal of the 1919 Black Sox.

No way. No how.

I know he's been dead for many years now, and it seems as if he's been forgotten.

But I don't care.

Another one for the sake of baseball. Put Joe in.

His career totals are outstanding. In 12 seasons with the Sox, he was a career .356 hitter with a .413 OBP, all while he swiped 202 bases.

In 1911, he hit .408 with a .463 OBP and 41 stolen bases. No, he didn't play like 80 games either. He played 147 games that season.

About this scandal in 1919.

In the 1919 World Series, he hit .375 with 12 hits in eight games.

How can you tell me he was trying to throw the series if he hit .375?

He also had one home run and six RBI on top of that.

Please Major League Baseball. Please put Shoeless Joe in Cooperstown.

Alex Rodriguez

He's in. He is most definitely in.

Okay steroid happy critics. He did use steroids from 2001-2003 from what we know. We can't say he used them before 2001, because he is innocent until proven guilty.

So besides 2001-2003, let's take a look at what he's done.

Other than 2001-2003, A-Rod made nine All-Star teams, two MVP awards, seven silver sluggers, and won one batting title.

How can you tell me that doesn't deserve to be enshrined?

Just wait.

He's a career .305 hitter, 570 home runs, 2,455 hits, 2,100 games played, 1,656 RBI, a .577 slugging percentage, a .390 OBP, and not to mention he has stolen over 200 bases.

Oh, and guess how old he is?

He's only 33.

No question. A-Rod, steroids or not, should be Cooperstown bound.

Barry Bonds

The tainted Barry Lamar Bonds.

In or not?

I'll save the verdict for the end.

Okay. Let's say he began roid usage in 2000. Until the end of the 2000 season, he was a career .289 hitter, with 494 home runs, 2,157 hits, along with 471 stolen bases.

That in itself deserves hall consideration.

Up until the end of 2000, Bonds made nine All-Star teams, won three MVP awards, won all eight gold gloves, eight silver sluggers, and actually led the league in home runs once.

He also stole over 30 bases nine times before 2001.

Now the verdict.

I vote yes.

I vote Barry Lamar Bonds to the hall. Tainted or not, he still would've hit over 500 home runs. Without steroids, he may have even come close to Henderson's stolen base record.

Sammy Sosa

Sammy Sosa is another odd case.

In or out?

I'll save this to the end again.

Sosa, 18 seasons, was a .273 career hitter with 609 home runs. He made seven All-Star teams, won one MVP, and six silver sluggers.

What did he have to offer other than home runs?

Nothing.

His fielding was suspect, and he was streaky at the plate. As a Cubs fan, I was in love with him at times and wanted to trade him at others.

He had 128 errors in his career. He also had a .973 career fielding percentage.

Nothing that jumps off the page at you.

I vote Sosa out.

Bonds had stolen bases going for him before he got on the "juice." Sosa had home runs his whole career, and that's it.

But of course, who makes the hall isn't up to me. I hope the people who vote make the right decision and put these people in eventually and keep others out.

For the sake of baseball.

Jake Karmel

MLB Records That Will Never Be Broken

Jake Karmel — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 14:42:47 -0400

There will be records in all major sports that will never be broken. Some MLB records will never be broken. Will walks in a season be broken? How about Bonds's career home run record? Which ones? How about the consecutive games played by Ripken? Dimaggio's hit streak? You never know what can happen. Lets take a look at my list.

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