Bleacher Report - Articles by Bill Yadlon

Torry Holt Signing By Jags Opens Door For Jets to Grab a Top WR.

Bill Yadlon — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 20:25:25 -0400

With the Jaguars signing free agent WR Torry Holt to a three-year deal, it opens the door for the New York Jets to potentially grab a higher level WR such a Jeremy Maclin or even Michael Crabtree.

It may still take a trade-up, but the Holt signing more than likely takes the Jaguars out of the running for a WR in the first round of the draft.

People have been speculating about the Jets, who are in desperate need for a WR to start opposite Jericho Cotchery, could go after combine warrior Darius Heyward-Bey or even local product Kenny Britt at the 17th pick.

Crabtree, once considered a guaranteed top five picked has had his stock slip slightly in the past few months due to an injured foot, and concerns about his timed foot speed.

The Jaguars, who always seems to be in need of a No. 1 wide receiver, were considered a possible destination for Crabtree, after Seattle, who many considered his probable destination early in the offseason, signed former Bengal, T.J. Houshmandzadeh to a big contract.

Not many teams in the 9-16 range are in need of a top flight receiver. Many teams earlier in the draft like the 49ers, Browns, and Bengals, who would all certainly benefit from Crabtree services have much more pressing needs and figure to not be suitors on draft day.

If a player like Crabtree falls to eight and even gets past the Jags—who may have fulfilled their WR needs—the possibility of the Jets jumping ahead and snagging the former Belitnakoff winner could increase dramatically.

Though Maclin would be a nice prize at 17, no one can deny the impact of a player like Crabtree on not just the team but the often restless Jets fans. The Holt signing, just made the path from Lubbuck, TX to East Rutherford, NJ a lot clearer.

New York Mets: A Rotation of Problems

Bill Yadlon — Mon, 20 Apr 2009 17:48:33 -0400

It goes without saying that the New York Mets' Achillies heel last season was the bullpen. Locking down the wins in the eighth and ninth inning was very difficult for a makeshift bullpen, which lost Bill Wagner late last year and never found the right formula of relievers for getting the win.

Ironically enough, the bullpen has been rock solid this year. New additions JJ Putz and Francisco Rodriguez have been nothing short of godsends and very reliable when the Mets have a led going into the eighth. Maybe overlooked are the contributions of newly acquired Sean Green and youngsters Bobby Parnell and Brian Stokes, who have made great strides as late inning relievers.

The Mets' curse so far in this short season has been inconsistent and shaky starting pitching. Johan Santana has been the ace everyone knew he would be, giving up just one earned run in three starts.

After finally breaking out last year, No. 2 man Mike Pelfrey has been roughed up and bothered by nagging injuries. Oliver Perez, whom the team committed a large contract to in the offseason, doesn’t appear to be in shape for the year and has been wildly inconsistent (pun thoroughly intended). John Maine has been very sharp at times, but has fallen victim to disaster innings and looks like he will never be more than a 5-6 inning starter.

Livan Hernandez has been spectacular for the Mets this season, especially given his lack of success in recent years. Perhaps he is best fit in the NL, and he can provide great fifth starter production.

However, many have to be skeptical if Hernandez can keep it up. He has a track record of fast starts and drastic falloffs. At the very least, he will eat innings and throw strikes, which will be helpful in giving the bullpen a rest after they are worked like dogs during Perez and Maine starts.

With many top starters available via trade and the economy forcing lower market teams to potentially have to deal top talent for salary relief, the Mets could have many options to fill the the void created by an ineffective staff.

With few options in the minors for immediate help, and lefty Jon Neise looking less and less like the prospect the Mets thought he could be, it might be time to sell the farm off for a top notch starter.

Roy Halladay, Jake Peavy, and Roy Oswalt are all previous CY Young award winners, and all look to be on the block soon, if not already. The Mets don’t have the strongest farm, but they have a lot to give away if a team inquired.

Young SS prospect Wilmer Flores could be enticing, as well as Jon Neise and Fernando Martinez. F-Mart, who once left Mets fans salivating, is not matching his potential with production. It might be time to sell him while his values might still be high, much like the Yankees did with Jose Tabata.

2008 first rounders Reece Havens and Ike Davis, as well as Eddie Kunz and even Nick Evans, might be of interest, and are hardly untradeable blue-chippers.

Bottom line is if a team like the Blue Jays or Padres is looking to acquire a lot of mid-level prospects over one or two top-flight guys, the Mets wouldn’t be in bad shape. A team that sold the farm for Johan Santana—and no one in the tri-state area is complaining about that—may still have what it takes to land a big-time arm. I think it’s obvious this team needs to pull the trigger and get another top starter in Queens.

My personal plan: Throw absolutely everything, including maybe even Ryan Church at the Padres and Blue Jays for Peavy or Halladay and see what happens. Move John Maine to the bullpen as a long/middle reliever to go two innings of relief in short outings and be a spot-starter when needed.

The good news is that the Mets aren’t far away ,and they have loads of potential. Those screaming about the sky falling need to be talked some sense, and made aware that it’s still very early.

This team traditionally doesn’t hit its stride until about two months in, and can really only go up from here. Those who actually believe Florida’s hot streak will last and that they will continue to be able to hide their abysmal bullpen is crazy.

It's still early folks, so come down off the ledge. I am confident in this team and what they can do, and that if they needed a big impact move, it is attainable.

2009 NFL Draft: Who Should the Jets Draft.

Bill Yadlon — Fri, 17 Apr 2009 02:20:00 -0400

So, it's getting closer and closer to Christmas day for me—the 2009 NFL draft on April 25.

My New York Jets have the uncomfortable 17th pick and to me the only option is either trading up or trading down.

Some of the projected mocks have players like Percy Harvin and Josh Freeman going to the Jets, and I would not be pleased.

I am not confident Freeman will be anything, and Harvin is a giant ego with no position. I don't want to hear about this "weapon" thing. If you can't play full time at either RB or WR you're not worth a first rounder.

One guy I have been eyeing up lately is the USC QB Mark Sanchez. His stock has been skyrocketing and I am hoping with every fiber of my being that he will slip to say 12 or even lower, so the Jets can jump up and snag him.

He seems to be a very well-rounded QB with no real weakness. He strikes me as the guy who has what it takes to be a star.

I know he has little experience, but I think college experience is overrated, compared to NFL style intangibles, which I believe he has.

If Sanchez goes much earlier, say fourth to Seattle, and is not a feasible option for gang green, I would love to target another trade up for Michael Crabtree.

Don't tell me 40 times, injuries, I don't want to hear it. This is a big game WR in the mold of Fitzgerald. Mark my words—he will be a star and the Jets are in desperate need of a No. 1 wide-out.

The only player that I could see possibly getting to the Jets that I wouldn't mind them staying put for is LSU DE Tyson Jackson.

A prototypical 3-4 DE, with run stopping ability that makes him a perfect fit for the improving Jets defense.

If all the above options fail, trade down.

Going down to a late first, and being able to pick up an extra second, would not be too bad.

I am a fan of Hakeem Nicks and Kenny Britt, but I'm kind of torn on Darius Heyward-Bey. Use the extra second to pick up a guy like Ron Brace or LeSean McCoy.

Here’s a list of guys I like:

Mark Sanchez

Michael Crabtree

Tyson Jackson

Hakeem Nicks

Ron Brace

Benny Britt

Fiola Moala

Here’s a list of guys I don't like:

Percy Harvin

Josh Freeman

James Laurinaitis

Derrick Williams

Beanie Wells

Michael Johnson

Vonte Davis

Brian Cushing

New York Mets: No Manny, No Problem!

Bill Yadlon — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 02:23:50 -0500

Like any Red Blooded, sane New York Mets fan, I am all for signing Manny Ramirez. If they can get him at a slightly shortened deal of two years, maybe three if the price is good, I think its exactly what the Mets need.

He fills a need in the corner outfield spot, hitting fourth behind David Wright in a lineup where the Mets currently lack a bona fide cleanup hitter.

Also, at a time where he is on the market at a bargain in a year much more filled with talent than next year's free agent class, it makes all the sense in the world.

But I have essentially prepared myself for life without Manny. The penny-pinching Jeff Wilpon will instead count his cash and maybe add a fifth level to the his vacation house in Tahiti, while his baseball team continue to be second hand news in New York.

Putting aside the obvious big splash in Manny, I have devised a cost-feasible plan that even the Wilpons couldn't scoff at.

Second base is currently a gaping, empty abyss. The Luis Castillo signing is one of the few poor decisions made by Omar Minaya, but it hurts nonetheless. If there is any way to move him, even if you have to eat some of his salary, it needs to be done.

The guy to get is Orlando Hudson. He hit .305 with 8 HRs and 41 RBI, .367 OBP, and .817 OPS,. Those are great numbers from your second baseman, and when you add that to his stellar defensive play, to me its a no-brainer.

A three-year $17 million-$18 million dollar deal should get this done. He also has been rumored to be in talks with Atlanta, so what's better than to address a need and stick it to a rival; sounds like killing two birds with one stone.

Obviously without Manny on board that leaves a bit of a hole in the LF spot. There are enough people to take up at-bats: Nick Evans, Angel Pagan, Jeremy Reed, Fernando Tatis, but none of these guys are really major league starting caliber outfielders, and certainly not acceptable for the New York Mets.

I say go after Adam Dunn. Sure he doesn't have a great batting average, but the guy draws walks (over 100 the past five years) to go along with a .381 OBP. He can also slug like few others. Chalk him up for 40 homeruns, which would add needed power to the latter part of the Mets lineup.

You hit him sixth and suddenly, the lineup is longer and the lack of a true cleanup hitter is less obvious. I am also not confident in Carlos Delgado's ability to continue his fantastic second half last season.

You give him a one-year deal with a team option, put up with his less than stellar defense in left. If he does well, you can let Delgado walk, and move him to first base next season and possibly give him a few more years.

Catcher is a position I am shocked so few people have identified as a need for the Mets. Lets just be honest, but at his prime Brian Schneider was just barely a major league caliber starter on a horrible team, but that time has come and gone and he should do the same.

His one saving grace, his defense, has not even been that spectacular. I have also never heard anyone claim he calls a great game or benefit the pitching staff, so I have no problem letting him go.

A few options out there could be Miguel Montero of the Diamondbacks, the third D-Back on this list. The Red Sox have been eyeing him throughout the off-season and it makes sense, he is young for the position, 25, and has a good OBP with improving power for the position.

He has also improved his defense over the years, and seemingly wouldn't cost much with the Diamondbacks apparently committed to Chris Snyder in the long term.

Ideally, my choice would be Kelly Shoppach on the Indians. With Victor Martinez hurt last year, he played very well, showing great power and patience at the plate, posting an impressive .865 OPS for a catcher. He plays fantastic defense, considering his nickname, the SHOP-VAC.

With Martinez coming back, and top young Indians prospect Carlos Santana on the Horizon, Shoppach may become expendable, who who turn 29 early in the 2009 season, could still have three or four good years left in him. It might take a little more to get him, but it would be worth it considering his modest 400K+ salary last season.

So relax Mets fans, not getting Manny is not the end of the world, but there are still great, intelligent, need filling options out there to be had. If there is any time for the Mets to spend spend spend, it is now.

In a depleted market, a team with its own TV network, and new stadium revenue, the Mets are in a financial position unlike many others where they can fill needs at bargain prices now in short-term deals, and let the extra payroll come off the books next off season.

The time is right, the players are right, its seems like a no-brainer to me.

Why I Refuse To Give Up On Vernon Gholston

Bill Yadlon — Sun, 25 Jan 2009 01:39:43 -0500

Last year, with an abysmal 2007 season on our hands, I began to do what any good New York Jets fan would do: I began to look forward to the draft. Since I've been into sports, I have always been a draft junkie.

It's tough to describe, but I just think the excitement of adding a brand new potentially great piece to your team is very exciting and worth a ton of attention. Each year, for my beloved New York Jets, I lock in on a guy based on mock drafts and need, that I just simply want.

In about mid-November last year, after researching scouting reports looking into mocks and thinking it through, I absolutely fell in love with Vernon Gholston.

I'm not ashamed to admit it. I absolutely loved everything about his game. 6'3" 260-lb pass-rushing beast. Looked to project beautifully to a 3-4 OLB. Coming off a Super Bowl in which we all saw the incredible New York Giants pass rush bring Tom Brady and Randy Moss's dynamic aerial attack in New England to a screeching halt, I came to the conclusion that there is nothing quite like a great pass rush in the NFL.

After putting up unfathomable numbers at the NFL combined, I was ecstatic about the Jets' prospects of drafting Gholston. What made him so special is that he had what few combine wonders in the past have had, and that's on the field production to go with his gaudy numbers.

An Ohio State season record 14 sacks in his junior year along with 8.5 his sophomore year, in the Big Ten where he would constantly be matched with top OTs like Michigan Jake Long and Wisconsin's Joe Thomas the year before.

He seemed like a can't miss. I envisioned him becoming a DeMarcus Ware, Shawne Merriman for the Jets—a game changer who opposing teams had to game plan around.

One year later it is no secret. Things have not worked out that way. Gholston seemed lost from day one. Never really found his niche in Mangini's scheme and barely saw the field outside of special teams work. Personally, I was devastated.

I had made it so obvious my love for Gholston by celebrating immensely upon his drafting to even purchasing his jersey, soon after. I think it goes without argument that without a doubt Gholston did the least for his team, than any other first-round pick in the past draft outside of injuries.

Yet, with all this said. I refuse to give up hope. The Rex Ryan era in New York brings hope to those who still have faith in Vernon being a factor. This is the same man who has coached up several linebackers on the Ravens like Terrell Suggs and plays a defensive scheme that consistently maximizes the talent of his personnel.

With former Ravens outside linebacker's coach Mike Pettine to be the defensive coordinator. Fantastic news for the Jets players and Gholston is that Ryan claims his 3-4 scheme is more "player-driven."

"We are going to evaluate during the spring what our players do well and what they don't do well. We've always been of the mind-set that you fit your system to your players and not your players to your system," says Ryan.

This has to come as fantastic news for Jets fan who had to put up with the exact opposite from Eric Mangini for four years. After watching Jonathan Vilma be shipped off to the saints last season it became apparent, Mangini was just trying to fit square pegs into round wholes, in misguided attempt to mimic the New England 3-4 scheme piece by piece, in honor of his hero Bill Belichick.

All the stars seem to be aligning for a resurgence out of Vernon Gholston next year. I'd even like the see the Jets try to ship off Bryan Thomas and give Vernon and real legitimate chance to flourish in a starting role.

Of course, it is really all up to Gholston and whether he is willing to work, some questions in college were regarding his motor and how he would disappear at times with inconsistent play. But if that's really the worst thing people can say about you, yours in pretty good shape.

It seems as if any chance of Vernon Gholston maximizing his potential it will be under the guidance of Rex Ryan and his right-hand man Mike Pettine. All I know is, as far as I'm concerned, unlike many other Jets fans, I refuse to give up on Vernon Gholston.

Fighting Urges To Screw Up: The Writers Finally Get One Right

Bill Yadlon — Wed, 12 Nov 2008 09:13:32 -0500

The Cy Young Award is given out yearly to the best pitcher in each of the two leagues in Major leave Baseball. It is also an award which frequently carries a lot of controversy with it, because usually a there are a lot of contenders and lot of different ways the judge their performance.

However, even though there were instincts to completely botch the award horrible the writers somehow managed to collect there thoughts and intelligently give the award to the most deserving player, San Francisco Giants Pitcher, Tim Lincecum.

Lincecum, the scrawny, 14-year old-looking flamethrower went 18-5 on a 72 win team, which is impressive in itself. His 2.62 ERA and 265 strikeouts didn't hurt either. However, there are some who question this decision by the voters.

Even thought Lincecum put up nearly identical numbers to last year's unanimous winner, Jake Peavy (19-6, 2.54 ERA 240 K's) some felt it should have gone to Brewers Ace and midseason acquisition CC Sabathia, who ,in a half of a season, put up an amazing 11-2 clip with a 1.62 ERA a 128 K's in 17 starts.

Admittedly those numbers are mind blowing, but it's a shame the MLB doesn't give out half-season awards. You just simply cannot give the award to a guy who only pitches half a season in Milwaukee, despite what he did. The fact that he changed leagues midseason also didn't help.

This also happens to be the same reason Carlos Beltran had such a tough time finding out what All Star game to play for in 2004 and why Mark Teixeira didn't win the gold glove at first this year despite being probably the best fielder in the game at first.

Others felt Brandon Webb deserved the hardware, and I couldn't disagree more. I don't think there is a more overrated stat in the major leagues for judging a pitchers success than wins. Regardless of his 22 wins, Webb, pitched very poorly down the stretch and is partly responsible for his team's absence from these past playoffs.

I put the biggest emphasis on ERA, and Webb's 3.30 mark is nice but not Cy Young worthy.

Many unintelligent people like to say it deserved to go to Brad Lidge, whom, if it wasn't for the Phillies winning the World Series woudln't even have been in the conversation. People often forget that these are regular-season awards and should not be impacted by playoff success. Unfortunately, sometimes the writers forget this.

The big thing about the Cy Young as it is with most awards is most people like to give the edge to those players whose teams are in contention. I have preached for years how unfair I think this is.

The reason we have a World Series is to award team success. Personal Regular Season Awards should be strictly statistical based, and playoffs should have no impact in the voting.

For example, this year in the case of Lincecum; he couldn't help it that the Giants weren't very good. He can only do so much being that baseball is the ultimate team game.

Thankfully this year, those who understand the interpretations of of the regular season awards and how they should be awarded were pleased to find that the voters actually made the right call in choosing Lincecum as the N.L. Cy Young award winner, who undeniably combines the best overall statistical season.

But I do have a piece of advice for Lincecum, Sabathia, Webb, and Lidge. Be thankful for the ineptness of the New York Mets bullpen, or else Johan Santana would be polishing off that award right now.

How To Solve The Closer Issue, Without Signing K-Rod

Bill Yadlon — Sat, 08 Nov 2008 17:51:51 -0500

Its typical of fans of a big market team to want to solve all of their issues in the off season by throwing a blank check at a top free agent. Thus is the case with the New York Mets this year.

After a second late September collapse in as many years, the brunt of the blame fell of the teams abysmal bullpen. With star closer, Billy Wagner out for this season, and possibly for his career, the Mets are in desperate need of not only significant bullpen help, but a guy to close out wins in the ninth.

This year the big guy everyone wants is single season saves record holder, Francisco Rodriguez. There is no denying K-Rod's talent and ability, as he has proven himself as a great closer and is still very young. But you have to expect he will want a monster contract. The assumed total is expected to be somewhere near five years and $75 million.

Do you really want to have to pay a relief pitcher 15 million a year? The Mets do have a limit, and despite most fans desire for them to spend like the Yankees, the Wilpons have expressed a desire to cutback costs or at least keep the payroll where it is now.

I believe giving one man in the bullpen who will only pitch 5 percent of your innings, if your lucky, $15 million is a mistake. And despite the inevitable chastising I will receive for this comment, I do not think K-Rod is that good, at least not 15 million per year good.

His WHIP is a little higher than you would like for a closer at 1.29. His ERA has been a little higher in recent years at 2.81 and 2.24. You'd prefer more of a sub 2 ERA for a top payed closer.

His emotions run high, and although he does have a World Series ring, hasn't been very good in big games, not to mention the playoffs this past year.

So if K-Rod is not the answer, who is? Creative people suggest Brian Fuentes. He is not a bad pitcher, and would probably benefit from getting out of Coors Field. However, I still do not believe he is worth the type of money he wants.

Lets take a look at some more creative closer options for the Mets to potentially pursue.

Huston Street - Oakland

I have always liked Street, and felt he would bounce back this season. He had his confidence rattled early and lost his job mid-season, which means his value is relatively low.

I'm sure a deal can be worked out with Mr. Beane involving some low level prospects, and maybe a major league ready starter.

Of course you will have to live with the fact that Billy Beane will probably turn whoever you trade into an eventual All-Star. But Oakland has not hesitated to trade in recent years, and might be looking to dump Street, who could benefit from a change of scenery and a guaranteed closer job.

Chad Cordero - Washington

Often overlooked because of how few chances he gets on a bad Washington team, Cordero would make a great option.

Even though he is coming off a shoulder injury, I think he is a worth the flyer in maybe a short contract. Cordero would probably like to be reunited with the man who originally drafted him in Montreal in Omar Minaya, and might be open to playing for the Mets who already have a strong established Latino culture.

Coming off an injury, Cordero should be cheaper than he normally would be and could be a good option.

JJ Putz - Seattle

How the mighty have fallen. Arguably the top closer in 2007, he was less than impressive in 2008. But then again so was all of Seattle. You'd have to think that coming off a horrible season, Seattle is definitely looking to dump some players and rebuild.

Putz is another one of those proven guys whose value is very low at the moment, and can be had for a decent price. No one can deny he has the ability, and being only 32 by opening day helps.

With other, cheaper options out there, I see no need to give Francisco Rodriguez $15 million. He is of course a better pitcher than the three other options I mentioned, but I think that money can be better spent on a starting pitcher, second baseman, or corner outfielder.

Besides, if the Phillies proved anything this year, its that you can strike gold, by just giving a guy with proven closer talent, a change of scenery.

Rays Sign Former Big Leaguer Luis Pujols to Scare Phillies Closer (Humor)

Bill Yadlon — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 09:02:40 -0400

With the World Series now tied and heading back to Philadelphia for the next three games, the Rays are looking for any type of advantage they can get. In order to nullify the Phillies' greatest advantage, their bullpen, the Rays have recently signed former nine-year big-league veteran and former interim manager of the Detroit Tigers Luis Pujols in a move many think is designed to psyche out Phillies All-Star closer Brad Lidge.

The move is a result of the famous 2005 ALCS, in which Albert Pujols faced Lidge, then the Astros closer, and smacked a three-run homer that was last reported orbiting Jupiter a few weeks ago. It was that home run that seemed to shatter Lidge's confidence, as he struggled for the next two years before finally regaining his All-Star form in Philadelphia.

The Rays plan to utilize Luis Pujols in the same way.

"He's going to come off the bench when Lidge is on the mound, and, hopefully, just seeing the name Pujols on the back of his jersey will cause Lidge to have a breakdown, throw several wild pitches, and possibly wet himself," said Rays manager Joe Maddon.

With Lidge out of commission, the Rays have a clear advantage later in games. Pujols, the current manager of the Corpus Christi Hooks, the Houston Astros' AA farm system, is a little skeptical.

"I do not know what the Rays expect out of me," Luis said, looking bemused. "I am an almost 53-year-old who's been out of baseball since 1985. But, come to think of it, Brad did seem a little weird when I met him. I introduced myself at a Houston Sports Banquet, and just after I finished telling him my name, he began to shake and cringe.

"He spent the next three hours in the corner next to the coat rack. Finally, as I was leaving, I asked him to throw me my hat on the way out. He picked it up and lobbed it like a flat 83 mph hanging slider with no bite."

As an added security blanket, the Rays have given Albert Pujols a complimentary Philadelphia vacation. They have rented him a fine hotel room, as well as given him front-row seats right behind home plate for the next three games at Citizens Bank Park.

"I appreciate the kindness of the Rays and thank them for being so generous to me, though I do not know why. I don't even play for them," said Albert, who is not related to Luis.

Clearly, Maddon is continuing to use his sharp baseball mind in all facets of the game in an attempt to win.

"This team has been bad for so long, we need a World Series title to increase revenue, and if inflicting severe psychological damage on Brad Lidge is what it takes, that's what we are going to do," Maddon said.

The Rays have not had Luis practice with the team. Instead, they have put him in a small room with 39 hours of Albert Pujols' at-bats during his career.

"They want me to imitate everything about him, from his intimidating stance to the way he stares at the pitcher," Luis said.

The Rays are definitely pulling out all the stops and trying to assure themselves of a World Series title because they know it wont be long before B.J. Upton, David Price, Carl Crawford, James Shields, and Matt Garza are all on the Red Sox and Yankees.

With Nets In Rebuilding Mode, Team Relying Heavily On Three Big Rookies

Bill Yadlon — Sat, 25 Oct 2008 06:54:43 -0400

When Jason Kidd left for New Jersey, not only did he take his great leadership and passing skills, but he took the Nets' chances as a contender for next couple years with him as well.

With the team in rebuilding mode, they have managed to stockpile young talent, in what is essentially a tryout season, to see who fits into the long-term future. With plenty of youthful front-court depth, Rod Thorn and his staff should be able to find enough young pieces to potentially build a team around Lebron James for the 2010 season.

However, its like the old saying goes, "You can't just build a team through free agency, you have to do it through the draft". Although it may normally be an NFL saying, the Nets took it to heart this past spring, selecting a threesome of talented rookies. With little veteran talent on the team, you can expect immediate contributions from the Nets' "New Big 3". But what can we expect in the long run?

With the 10th overall pick the draft, the Nets found themselves extremely lucky to be on the clock with star Stanford center Brook Lopez falling into their laps. A bona fide low-post threat who many believed could go as high as the third or fourth pick.

With Lopez the Nets now have a dominant center, unlike Josh Boone or Sean Williams who despite their height, are really better suited to be power forwards in the NBA. Expect Lopez to contribute immediately and develop into an offensive presence in the middle.

Best case scenario: A Shorter Yao Ming

With the 21st pick, via Dallas through the Jason Kidd trade, the Nets went back to the front court and added University of California sophomore forward, Ryan Anderson. It is ironic that the Nets would trade a former Golden Bear, but aside from similar Alma maters, these two couldn't be more opposite on the basketball court.

Anderson possesses great offensive skills, including a great jumper for a big man. He does, however, lack ideal athleticism and a refined low-post game. He has turned heads in the preseason, and despite many questioning the pick, he may make the most immediate impact on the Nets.

Best Case Scenario: Mike Dunleavy (last year)

Finally the usually under-appreciated second round which rarely churns out any real stars in the league, the Nets made the most of the 40th overall selection by taking former first-team All American and Memphis Tigers star Chris Douglas-Roberts.

I was absolutely in love with this selection, when it was made last April. I constantly preach taking a proven college star, over the 7'3" 160-pound European project who is usually seven years away from being a starter on his Euro Club team.

With Douglas-Roberts, the Nets have a proven winner, a leader, and a scoring threat off the bench, with the intangibles you look for. While he may never reach the level of dominance he displayed in college, Douglas-Roberts could still be a very effective sixth man on a championship roster

Best Case Scenario: James Posey (winning ability)

Do not expect much success out of this team, this year. They are very young and luckily have a lot of depth and talent, but they will probably finish near the bottom of the league for this year, yet again.

However, don't expect this lack of success to last. The Nets have a plan to target a big name free agent next summer, with Jay-Z and a Brooklyn move on board, the Nets should be able to land Dwayne Wade, Chris Bosh, or Lebron James. There is a bright light at the end of this tunnel.

Despite Poor Play, Brett Favre Can Still Do Things That Others Cannot

Bill Yadlon — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 14:14:47 -0400

Coming off their most recent loss to Oakland, Jets fans cannot be happy overall with the play of Brett Favre. People were jumping out their shoes after his six TD performance against Arizona in week four, but in the recent weeks he has come back down to earth.

Favre, who went 21-for-38 for 197 yards, with no touchdowns and two interceptions, had his second outing with fewer than 200 yards passing and two picks this Sunday in Oakland. You can blame it on bad play-calling by Brian Schottenheimer or blame it on the offensive line for bad pass protection. One way or another, the Jets' passing game has not been very good as of late. Generally, most of the blame goes to the quarterback.

Favre didn’t play well, but what the optimistic Jets fan needs to take away from this game is that if you still have Chad Pennington as your starting quarterback with 1:24 left in the fourth quarter on the five-yard line, you lose that game, no questions asked.

Maybe Pennington doesn’t make the bonehead interception that Favre is prone to make from time to time, but does Pennington escape the safety on second down in the end zone? I doubt it. I think he probably goes down right there and the game is over.

Is Pennington able to scramble and create more time and find Chansi Stuckey on 3rd-and-10? Highly unlikely.

Whether you like Brett Favre or not, you have to come to appreciate that he is capable of doing things that many other quarterbacks in the NFL just cannot. He has the famous iron man, clutch performer reputation for a reason. He practically has a cult following in Green Bay because he is able to make game winning/tying drives, just like he did for the Jets this Sunday.

So before you go throwing Favre under the bus for his poor play Sunday, learn to appreciate his ability to make that game-tying drive. And this isn’t the first time he has done it, but rather the 37th time.

So before you Jets fans run around screaming about how the sky is falling and demanding Brett Favre’s head, taken a step back, put down the flaming torch, and appreciate how Brett Favre was able to tie the game and get the Jets to overtime.

I know personally when the Jets ran out onto that field late in the fourth quarter with a chance to win the game, I was thanking God it was Brett Favre under center and not Chad Pennington.

New York Jets Should Forget the Titan Jersey's

Bill Yadlon — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 09:20:35 -0400

Any self respecting New York Jets fan has to be fed up with the New York Titans uniforms the Jets began wearing last year. While wearing the classic throwbacks for the first time in 2008, the Jets routed the Arizona Cardinals 56-35, in which Brett Favre threw for a career high six touchdown passes.

Impersonating the behavior of most superstitious high school athletes, the Jets chose to wear their throwbacks uniforms during their next home game against the Bengals, which they won. Not because of superior talent and the Bengals atrocity, but because of those gritty looking old school threads.

Originally, I liked the idea for the Titans jerseys. Most teams had some kind of alternate jersey, and it was nice to see a change every once and a while. But, I must oppose the design, in that it is modified to look similar to the Jets jerseys of today, while still maintaining an artificial old-fashioned look. But I guess things could be worse, we could have those sky blue and yellow Philadelphia Eagles jersey.

As a Jets fan, I am a supporter of anything that distinguishes us from the hated Giants. The classic green and white allowed us to never be confused with our East Rutherford roommates. However, last week while watching the game, someone in the room commented that the Jets resembled the Giants. I simply lost it, and these over-used throwbacks became an instant no-no.

Being three home games into the season, it is simply inexcusable to use your throwbacks more (twice) than your classic home colors (just once). If you’d like to honor history, do so in a way that celebrates Broadway Joe and the Super bowl III winning team. Don’t waste your time celebrating a bleak team that finished an unimpressive 19-23 in three pedestrian seasons.

But we all know it’s not about honoring history; it’s about the Jets commitment to a different type of green, which is the all mighty dollar. I shouldn’t fault them; most teams also do this to raise jersey sales. But please, do not beat the Titans jerseys into the ground. Once a season will do just fine. Let’s not throw the jerseys we won our only Super Bowl into the wind, for the sake of something new.

Of course, what is most important is winning, and let’s face it, this team is 2-0 in the throwbacks. So, I’m willing to put up with our New York Jets looking like Notre Dame’s JV team, as long as they keep winning.

Welcome to MLB Stardom, BJ Upton

Bill Yadlon — Sun, 19 Oct 2008 07:34:07 -0400

It is truly amazing what a great postseason can do for your image; just ask Carlos Beltran. But this postseason another five-tool star is born.

With seven home runs, tied for the AL record (Troy Glaus in 2002), BJ Upton has been a terror for both types of Sox this postseason. For those that closely follow the game, it seems BJ Upton has been on the radar for quite some time. Tampa Bay fans waited year after year for him to finally emerge like they expected him to when he was selected second overall in 2002. Let's take a quick look back at BJ’s journey to stardom.

Given the birth name Melvin, he soon became known as BJ. His father's nickname was Bossman, so he quickly became Bossman Jr., which clearly doesn't roll off the tongue as well as BJ.

Despite being the obvious best player in the draft he fell to second because of the Pirates' refusal to pay top talent—or draft well, for that matter.

Fielding was his Achilles' heel all throughout the minors. After making 56 errors in 2003 at shortstop he was shifted all over the diamond to find a position he could hold down.

He made his much anticipated MLB debut at the tender age of 19, going 1-for-3 with a single. He was sent down once again to settle down his fielding issues. Attempted moves to second and third base failed because of continued errors.

Finally in 2007, BJ became a permanent fixture in the Rays' season. After beginning the season at second, he was soon injured and returned as the starting center fielder, where he remains to this day.

Some were impatient with BJ's development and were worried fielding issues would jeopardize his potential major-league career. But pure talent prevailed, and now you can find Upton roaming American League outfields and snagging fly balls no man should be able to reach.

His younger brother Justin was drafted first overall by the Arizona Diamondbacks, who clearly learned from the Pirates that you can't put a price on Upton family talent. He is now the starting RF for them. Like many young players, he shows flashes of brilliance with his power stroke but strikes out too much and doesn't hit for a high enough average.

With comparable skills and similar draft selections, these brothers are taking a career path similar to that of the first family of football, the Mannings. With BJ already establishing himself as a star like Peyton, one can only hope Justin follows suit like Eli and emerges just like his brother.

But that remains to be seen.

One thing is for sure: BJ Upton has become a household name and will continue to wow us for many years to come.

Welcome to MLB stardom, BJ Upton; enjoy your stay.

New York Mets Bullpen: Should They Stay or Should They Go?

Bill Yadlon — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 13:46:54 -0400

It's no secret: The Mets' bullpen in 2008 cost them a chance at the playoffs. There is nothing worse than jumping out to a quick 5-0 lead on a good team, only to see them creep back and eventually beat you because day after day, nobody could get the job done.

The problem the Mets had was that they had a bullpen full of specialists. If you look at the splits, players like Pedro Feliciano and Scott Schoeneweis were great against lefties but terrible against righties. Joe Smith and Aaron Heilman could get the righties out, but were awful against the opposite side of the plate.

Duaner Sanchez oddly enough had a 3.04 ERA against lefties, and a 5.40 against righties, which is just mind boggling out of a righty reliever.

You just can't have a team full of players who can only get their side of the plate out. When I would look at the Mets' box scores, I would constantly see five or six names after the starter, each going zero innings or 0.1. There's no doubt things need to change. So let's go through the current arms out there and decide if they should stay or go.

Brian Stokes - RHP No. 43

Stokes is a flame-throwing right-hander, who really only has his fastball. But being still reasonably young at 29, I say keep him and hope he can develop some control and maybe blossom into a Grant Balfour type for the Mets.

KEEP HIM

Joe Smith - RHP No. 35

One of the only decent seasons last year with a 3.55 ERA. It seemed down the stretch Smith was the only one doing his job. Though I don't want to give too much praise, that's not saying much out of this 'pen. Smith had his blowups, but all in all, considering his age and contract, I have no problem keeping him on as a righty specialist.

KEEP HIM

Scott Schoeneweis - LHP No. 60

Not bad numbers with a 3.34 ERA on the season, but absolutely brutal against righties. However, he is towards the end of his career and because of that, I say he can only go down, ditch him.

LOSE HIM

Pedro Feliciano - LHP No. 25

He gets the nod over Schoeneweis purely because of age. His numbers weren't as good as Schoeneweis's last year, but unlike Schoeneweis, it wasn't too long ago when he was an excellent left-hander out of this 'pen. I'm sticking with potential and age here; let Feliciano be the lefty specialist.

KEEP HIM

Duaner Sanchez - RHP No. 50

I still have faith in Sanchez. After the 2006 season, in which he established himself as a top-notch set-up man, he fell off much the rest with a 4.32 ERA. I think he needs more time to get his stuff back after his horrific injury, but I don't think anyone has as much upside as him out of this bullpen. A definite keeper, in my opinion.

KEEP HIM

Bobby Parnell - RHP No. 39

This guy doesn't belong in the majors right now. Demote him, let him develop, and we'll see later what he can become. Probably not much. Either way, he's not in the Mets' 'pen this upcoming year.

LOSE HIM

Brandon Knight - RHP No. 44

Players don't stay in the minors in their early 30s because they want to. This guy isn't the answer. Congratulations on the bronze medal in Beijing, but I don't think he can get it done in the majors, much less New York City.

LOSE HIM

Carlos Muiz - RHP No. 32

Who? Exactly. This guy's roster spot is a direct result of everyone else failing. No thank you, not in New York.

LOSE HIM

Luis Ayala - RHP No. 56

Probably the worst numbers of all the relievers in this bullpen, even thought most of them came with Washington. He will be a free agent this year, and what he will command remains to be seen. If it's reasonable, I say keep him. If some team gives him $5 million, let him walk.

I am partial to Ayala because it was not too long ago he was a reliable middle reliever. And he is one of the few guys on the Mets that can get both righties and lefties out. It may be questioned, but it's more of an upside pick. I say give Ayala another try.

KEEP HIM

Aaron Heilman - RHP No. 48

Heilman is my least favorite Mets reliever. An 8.19 ERA against lefties, for Heilman, it was more than just the numbers. This guy is the A-Rod of middle relievers, without any of the success. It seemed whenever the situation was big, he was the worst. Constantly blowing big leads and giving up big hits. He needs to go, no questions asked.

LOSE HIM

Why The Mets Should Sign Manny Ramirez

Bill Yadlon — Sat, 18 Oct 2008 08:31:31 -0400

After a second straight season with a September collapse, the Mets have to do something big. This year, with such a huge gap in LF heading into the season, nothing would shake things up more than bringing in Manny Ramirez.

The Manny deal would have to be done carefully. Scott Boras, Ramirez' demon spawn agent, is lobbying for a six-year contract, which would terminate at Manny's 42nd birthday, much like Alex Rodriguez.

The cost per year? Probably around $22-25 million. If this is in fact the price, its a no go. But if you can use Omar Minaya and the teams Latino ties to sway Manny to take a front loaded three or four-year deal with lots on incentives for good play, I think its a no-brainer.

Manny will give the Mets two great years before he begins to alienate himself and sabotage games. But for the production he will give during his good years, I think it's worth it.

Manny is not the best fielding LF, but neither was Daniel Murphy and let's just be honest: hitting trounces fielding in the majors and anyone who tells you otherwise is a liar. If you stick Manny in that lineup hitting fourth behind David Wright, he will start to see a lot more fastballs and instantly becomes a .335 avg. 40 HR, 130 RBI guy. Just look at the fall off in David Ortiz' production without the Man-Ram hitting behind him.

Of course the bullpen was the culprit in the Mets collapse this season, but with little options out there, I'd prefer paying Manny than overpaying for Francisco Rodriguez, who I personally think is overrated.

I don't think the bullpen is as bad as they showed. Bullpen arms tend to vary year to year, so I don't think breaking the bank on a good, not great closer is the answer.

Many people will object and say he's too much money. But with Pedro Martinez, Oliver Perez, and possibly, Carlos Delgado coming off the books, it almost evens out. Besides, playing in the New York market, the Mets have to become big spenders if they ever want to steal the back pages from the Yankees.

After such an embarrassing collapse, yet again, the Mets front office owes it to their club's fans to make a big signing and promise them that what happened the last two years will not happen again.

Top 10 Most Underrated Players In The NFL

Bill Yadlon — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 17:09:34 -0400

Tired of hearing about Terrell Owens, Tom Brady, and all the other big name guys in the NFL? Me too. Here's a list of some players you may not know, but should, because they sure are good.

10) Justin Fargas, RB Oakland Raiders

Rushed for over 1,000 yards last year on a bad team, and despite the drafting of Darren McFadden and pressure from Michael Bush, he continues to average 4.6 yards per carry.

9) Derrick Mason, WR Baltimore Ravens

Mason catches 80 balls a year with his eyes closed, despite bad QB play in recent years.

8) Shaun Phillips, OLB San Diego Chargers

Despite usually being overshadowed, he is finally getting noticed with Merriman out for the year.

7) Jeff Saturday, C Indianapolis Colts

Peyton Manning's play without him reflects his importance to the Colts offense.

6) London Fletcher, LB Washington Redskins

He may not have impressive size (5'10" 245), but he is a tackling machine.

5) Robert Mathis, DE Indianapolis Colts

Mathis is more consistent than his opposite end counterpart, Dwight Freeney.

4) James Harrison, OLB Pittsburgh Steelers

Harrison is a do everything linebacker who broke out big last year.

3) Cortland Finnegan, CB Tennessee Titans

Leads NFL in picks with four and does everything you ask for in a corner very well.

2) D.J. Williams, LB Denver Broncos

Williams has flown under the radar for years, and even thought he has switched positions year after year, he continues to be one the forces on a bad Denver defense.

1) Lofa Tatupu, MLB Seattle Seahawks

Even though flashier names like Lewis and Urlacher get all the headlines, Tatupu can do it all. Drop into coverage (four picks last year), tackle (over 100 every year since he's been in the league), plus he is durable. Maybe the best MLB in football, and recently payed like it.