Wednesday, October 31, 2007

Red Sox Want Their Baseball. Again!

This gave me a good laugh. Right after the WS ended, Jason Varitek said he would give the baseball, which was in his mitt after Jon Papelbon struck out Seth Smith for the final out, to the team to avoid the controversy of 2004. Somewhere along the line, Varitek changed his mind.

"I already gave it to Pap," Varitek said. "It's out of my hands."
Neither Larry Lucchino nor Red Sox spokesmen immediately returned calls or e-mails seeking comment Wednesday.

Source

Red Sox Want Their Baseball. Again!

This gave me a good laugh. Right after the WS ended, Jason Varitek said he would give the baseball, which was in his mitt after Jon Papelbon struck out Seth Smith for the final out, to the team to avoid the controversy of 2004. Somewhere along the line, Varitek changed his mind.

"I already gave it to Pap," Varitek said. "It's out of my hands."
Neither Larry Lucchino nor Red Sox spokesmen immediately returned calls or e-mails seeking comment Wednesday.

Source

Mike Cameron Hit 25 Game Ban

Mike Cameron wants it made clear that he has not used steroids. That being said he'll start out next season with a 25 game suspension after a 2nd offense for using a banned stimulant.

"The one thing I wanted to make sure was explained is, no steroids," Cameron told AM 1090, the Padres' flagship radio station. "I never took nothing like that before in my life. That would be 50 games, and that would affect me a whole lot more."

"After all of the analysis and testing, I can only conclude that a nutritional supplement I was taking was tainted," he said. "Unfortunately, the actual supplement is gone, and therefore cannot be tested. Without the actual supplement in hand, the rules are clear, and I must accept the suspension."

For Cameron, who is about to file for free agency, the timing couldn't be worse.

Source

Mike Cameron Hit 25 Game Ban

Mike Cameron wants it made clear that he has not used steroids. That being said he'll start out next season with a 25 game suspension after a 2nd offense for using a banned stimulant.

"The one thing I wanted to make sure was explained is, no steroids," Cameron told AM 1090, the Padres' flagship radio station. "I never took nothing like that before in my life. That would be 50 games, and that would affect me a whole lot more."

"After all of the analysis and testing, I can only conclude that a nutritional supplement I was taking was tainted," he said. "Unfortunately, the actual supplement is gone, and therefore cannot be tested. Without the actual supplement in hand, the rules are clear, and I must accept the suspension."

For Cameron, who is about to file for free agency, the timing couldn't be worse.

Source

Yankees or Bust

Andy Pettitte has told a Houston TV station that he'll either play for the Yankees in 2008 or retire.

"The New York Yankees committed an awful lot of money to me and put it in my hands, gave me a player option and trusted me with that option," Pettitte said. "It probably wouldn't be real honorable for me not to do anything other than if I shut it down or go back and play for the New York Yankees. I gotta figure out in my mind exactly what I want to do."
Source

Yankees or Bust

Andy Pettitte has told a Houston TV station that he'll either play for the Yankees in 2008 or retire.

"The New York Yankees committed an awful lot of money to me and put it in my hands, gave me a player option and trusted me with that option," Pettitte said. "It probably wouldn't be real honorable for me not to do anything other than if I shut it down or go back and play for the New York Yankees. I gotta figure out in my mind exactly what I want to do."
Source

Listen to the Tuesday's Press Conferences.

But I warn you..the 1st two are coma inducing. Thanks to Peter Abraham for posting them!

Joe Girardi


Brian Cashman


Don Mattingly

Listen to the Tuesday's Press Conferences.

But I warn you..the 1st two are coma inducing. Thanks to Peter Abraham for posting them!

Joe Girardi


Brian Cashman


Don Mattingly

Torre and Dodgers Close to Agreement

Joe Torre is getting his wish, just not with the team he had originally hoped. Reports earlier this evening were that Torre and the Dodgers were close to agreeing on a 3 year deal for app. $15 million. A deal could be announced as early as Thursday.

Dodgers skipper Grady Little was forced to resign earlier in the day, receiving a buy out in the process.

Don Mattingly is already on board to join Torre's staff and contract discussions are taking place for the remaining staff.

Donnie Baseball in a Dodgers uniform? Vomitous.

Source

Torre and Dodgers Close to Agreement

Joe Torre is getting his wish, just not with the team he had originally hoped. Reports earlier this evening were that Torre and the Dodgers were close to agreeing on a 3 year deal for app. $15 million. A deal could be announced as early as Thursday.

Dodgers skipper Grady Little was forced to resign earlier in the day, receiving a buy out in the process.

Don Mattingly is already on board to join Torre's staff and contract discussions are taking place for the remaining staff.

Donnie Baseball in a Dodgers uniform? Vomitous.

Source

Coaching Staff in (tentative) Place

Joining Joe Girardi in pinstripes next year will be...

Bench Coach - Rob Thomson. Kudos to a guy who has worked behind the scenes for many years, without getting much of the credit.

Pitching Coach - Dave Eiland. No surprise here. Ron Guidry was out no matter who was the manager. Eiland worked with Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, and Ian Kennedy, as well as other young arms in the Yankees organization.

Hitting Coach - Kevin Long. Excellent move by the Yankees in retaining this guy. He took a lot of heat early in this past season, but he definitely deserves plenty of credit for the offensive turnaround as well as A-Rod's monster season.

1st Base - Tony Pena. Great to have Tony Sr. back after missing out on the manager's job. Has a great rapport, not only with the young Latin players, but with everyone.

3rd Base - Bobby Meacham. I still get shivers thinking back to his days as a Yankees shortstop. He was awful. But he's earned high marks for his minor league work and was Girardi's 3rd Base coach in Florida.

Bullpen - Mike Harkey. Who?

Never thought I would ever see the day I would say I would miss Larry Bowa, but I will. As annoying a player as he was and as testy a manager as he was, he did a tremendous job during his time in pinstripes. Good luck in Seattle (or LA if you decide to rejoin Joe Torre), Larry.

Source

Coaching Staff in (tentative) Place

Joining Joe Girardi in pinstripes next year will be...

Bench Coach - Rob Thomson. Kudos to a guy who has worked behind the scenes for many years, without getting much of the credit.

Pitching Coach - Dave Eiland. No surprise here. Ron Guidry was out no matter who was the manager. Eiland worked with Joba Chamberlain, Phil Hughes, and Ian Kennedy, as well as other young arms in the Yankees organization.

Hitting Coach - Kevin Long. Excellent move by the Yankees in retaining this guy. He took a lot of heat early in this past season, but he definitely deserves plenty of credit for the offensive turnaround as well as A-Rod's monster season.

1st Base - Tony Pena. Great to have Tony Sr. back after missing out on the manager's job. Has a great rapport, not only with the young Latin players, but with everyone.

3rd Base - Bobby Meacham. I still get shivers thinking back to his days as a Yankees shortstop. He was awful. But he's earned high marks for his minor league work and was Girardi's 3rd Base coach in Florida.

Bullpen - Mike Harkey. Who?

Never thought I would ever see the day I would say I would miss Larry Bowa, but I will. As annoying a player as he was and as testy a manager as he was, he did a tremendous job during his time in pinstripes. Good luck in Seattle (or LA if you decide to rejoin Joe Torre), Larry.

Source

Tuesday, October 30, 2007

What Crawled up Michael Kay's A.....

Every day he takes shot after shot at Joe Torre. Today he's ripping the media for canonizing Torre. Ultimate company man (though he always kissed Torre's behind on YES) or spurned journalist? Either way, he just sounds foolish.

What Crawled up Michael Kay's A.....

Every day he takes shot after shot at Joe Torre. Today he's ripping the media for canonizing Torre. Ultimate company man (though he always kissed Torre's behind on YES) or spurned journalist? Either way, he just sounds foolish.

Mattingly, Girardi Press Conferences

Being carried by WFAN-AM; Mattingly's began at 4, Girardi's to follow.

Mattingly, Girardi Press Conferences

Being carried by WFAN-AM; Mattingly's began at 4, Girardi's to follow.

Official Girardi Press Release

Courtesy of PeteAbe

This press release from the Yankees:

YANKEES NAME JOE GIRARDI 32ND MANAGER IN FRANCHISE HISTORY; SIGNED TO A THREE-YEAR CONTRACT THROUGH THE 2010 SEASON

The Yankees announced today that they have named Joe Girardi the 32nd manager in franchise history, signing him to a three-year contract which extends through the 2010 season. He becomes the 17th Yankees manager to have played for the club and the fourth former Yankees catcher to skipper the team, joining Bill Dickey, Ralph Houk and Yogi Berra. At 43 years old, Girardi becomes the third-youngest manager in the Major Leagues, behind the Washington Nationals’ Manny Acta (38) and the Cleveland Indians’ Eric Wedge (39).

Girardi was the 2006 National League “Manager of the Year,” guiding the Florida Marlins to a 78-84 record in his only season as a Major League manager. With the award, he matched the Houston Astros’ Hal Lanier (1986) and the San Francisco Giants’ Dusty Baker (1993) as the only managers to win the honor in their managerial debuts. In 2005, he served as the New York Yankees’ Bench Coach and Catching Instructor in his coaching debut.

In 15 Major League seasons as a catcher, Girardi played for the Chicago Cubs (1989-92 and 2000-02), Colorado Rockies (1993-95), New York Yankees (1996-99) and St. Louis Cardinals (2003). He was originally selected by the Cubs in the fifth round of the 1986 draft and went on to appear in six career postseasons, winning World Series titles with the Yankees in 1996, 1998, and 1999. In 1,277 career Major League games, he batted .267 (1,100-for-4,127) with 454 runs, 186 doubles, 36 home runs and 422 RBI, finishing with a .991 career fielding percentage while throwing out 27.6% of potential base stealers. He was named to the National League All-Star team in 2000 while playing with the Cubs.

As a Yankee, Girardi was behind the plate for Dwight Gooden’s no-hitter on 5/14/96 vs. Seattle and David Cone’s perfect game on 7/18/99 vs. Montreal. In Game 6 of the 1996 World Series vs. Atlanta, Girardi tripled in the game’s first run in a three-run third inning as the Yankees clinched their first World Championship since 1978 with a 3-2 victory.

A native of Peoria, Ill., Girardi was a three-time academic All-American and two-time All-Big Ten selection at Northwestern University, graduating with a degree in industrial engineering in 1986. Following his retirement as a player in 2004, Girardi joined the YES Network as an analyst and won an Emmy Award for hosting YES’ “Kids on Deck” series. In 2006, he rejoined YES, working as an analyst on Yankees broadcasts. He and his wife, Kim, have three children, Serena, Dante and Lena.

Official Girardi Press Release

Courtesy of PeteAbe

This press release from the Yankees:

YANKEES NAME JOE GIRARDI 32ND MANAGER IN FRANCHISE HISTORY; SIGNED TO A THREE-YEAR CONTRACT THROUGH THE 2010 SEASON

The Yankees announced today that they have named Joe Girardi the 32nd manager in franchise history, signing him to a three-year contract which extends through the 2010 season. He becomes the 17th Yankees manager to have played for the club and the fourth former Yankees catcher to skipper the team, joining Bill Dickey, Ralph Houk and Yogi Berra. At 43 years old, Girardi becomes the third-youngest manager in the Major Leagues, behind the Washington Nationals’ Manny Acta (38) and the Cleveland Indians’ Eric Wedge (39).

Girardi was the 2006 National League “Manager of the Year,” guiding the Florida Marlins to a 78-84 record in his only season as a Major League manager. With the award, he matched the Houston Astros’ Hal Lanier (1986) and the San Francisco Giants’ Dusty Baker (1993) as the only managers to win the honor in their managerial debuts. In 2005, he served as the New York Yankees’ Bench Coach and Catching Instructor in his coaching debut.

In 15 Major League seasons as a catcher, Girardi played for the Chicago Cubs (1989-92 and 2000-02), Colorado Rockies (1993-95), New York Yankees (1996-99) and St. Louis Cardinals (2003). He was originally selected by the Cubs in the fifth round of the 1986 draft and went on to appear in six career postseasons, winning World Series titles with the Yankees in 1996, 1998, and 1999. In 1,277 career Major League games, he batted .267 (1,100-for-4,127) with 454 runs, 186 doubles, 36 home runs and 422 RBI, finishing with a .991 career fielding percentage while throwing out 27.6% of potential base stealers. He was named to the National League All-Star team in 2000 while playing with the Cubs.

As a Yankee, Girardi was behind the plate for Dwight Gooden’s no-hitter on 5/14/96 vs. Seattle and David Cone’s perfect game on 7/18/99 vs. Montreal. In Game 6 of the 1996 World Series vs. Atlanta, Girardi tripled in the game’s first run in a three-run third inning as the Yankees clinched their first World Championship since 1978 with a 3-2 victory.

A native of Peoria, Ill., Girardi was a three-time academic All-American and two-time All-Big Ten selection at Northwestern University, graduating with a degree in industrial engineering in 1986. Following his retirement as a player in 2004, Girardi joined the YES Network as an analyst and won an Emmy Award for hosting YES’ “Kids on Deck” series. In 2006, he rejoined YES, working as an analyst on Yankees broadcasts. He and his wife, Kim, have three children, Serena, Dante and Lena.

Got to Go to Mo

The Daily News is reporting that Mariano Rivera and his agent, Fernando Cuza, are meeting with the Yankees in Tampa today to work out a new deal for the closer.

When asked if he was meeting with the Yankees, Rivera said, "Yeah. We have to see something." Rivera declined further comment, telling reporters he would elaborate on his way out of the ballpark.
Mo officially filed for free agency yesterday, the first day he was eligible to.

Source

Got to Go to Mo

The Daily News is reporting that Mariano Rivera and his agent, Fernando Cuza, are meeting with the Yankees in Tampa today to work out a new deal for the closer.

When asked if he was meeting with the Yankees, Rivera said, "Yeah. We have to see something." Rivera declined further comment, telling reporters he would elaborate on his way out of the ballpark.
Mo officially filed for free agency yesterday, the first day he was eligible to.

Source

7.5

That's the number of millions Joe Girardi will be getting over the next 3 years.

Source

7.5

That's the number of millions Joe Girardi will be getting over the next 3 years.

Source

Girardi Makes it Official

The Yankees are expected to officially announce Joe Girardi's hiring today, via a conference call. At some point, a meet and greet the media in NYC will be set up.

Source

With the Yankees coaching contracts expiring tomorrow, the Yankees are reportedly working quickly to retain Kevin Long as hitting coach. If indeed Joe Torre takes the Dodgers job, he would probably want to hire Long, who makes his off-season home in Arizona. The Yankees would probably like to keep Tony Pena, and possibly Larry Bowa as well. Long time scout/player development guy Robbie Thompson may also join the staff. Girardi's bench coach in Florida, Gary Tuck, who has worked with the Yankees before, could leave the Red Sox to join Girardi in the same capacity.

Source

The Star-Ledger's Lisa Kennelley also did a nice piece on the Yankees new Joe in today's paper.

Source

Girardi Makes it Official

The Yankees are expected to officially announce Joe Girardi's hiring today, via a conference call. At some point, a meet and greet the media in NYC will be set up.

Source

With the Yankees coaching contracts expiring tomorrow, the Yankees are reportedly working quickly to retain Kevin Long as hitting coach. If indeed Joe Torre takes the Dodgers job, he would probably want to hire Long, who makes his off-season home in Arizona. The Yankees would probably like to keep Tony Pena, and possibly Larry Bowa as well. Long time scout/player development guy Robbie Thompson may also join the staff. Girardi's bench coach in Florida, Gary Tuck, who has worked with the Yankees before, could leave the Red Sox to join Girardi in the same capacity.

Source

The Star-Ledger's Lisa Kennelley also did a nice piece on the Yankees new Joe in today's paper.

Source

Monday, October 29, 2007

Torre to Manage Dodgers

The Journal News is reporting tonight that Joe Torre has agreed to manage the LA Dodgers next season and Don Mattingly will join him as bench coach. An announcement could come as soon as tomorrow.

The Dodgers had to buy out current manager, Grady Little, who lost his last job with the Red Sox, in part, due to Joe Torre.

Source

Torre to Manage Dodgers

The Journal News is reporting tonight that Joe Torre has agreed to manage the LA Dodgers next season and Don Mattingly will join him as bench coach. An announcement could come as soon as tomorrow.

The Dodgers had to buy out current manager, Grady Little, who lost his last job with the Red Sox, in part, due to Joe Torre.

Source

Don't Let the Door Hit Ya

Brian Cashman addressed the A-Rod situation with a prepared statement and possibly a veiled shot.

"I received a message from Scott Boras last night informing me that Alex Rodriguez formally opted out of the final three seasons of his contract," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said in a statement released Monday. "We always understood that it was his contractual right to do so.

"We expressed our interest in keeping him in pinstripes, and requested the opportunity to convey those feelings to him directly with the Steinbrenner family in an open, face-to-face dialogue.

"Alex was a key part of our success over the last four seasons, and I appreciate having the opportunity to work with him. I wish Alex, Cynthia and their growing family the best of luck in the future. I only wish we could have raised a championship trophy together during his time here, which was the ultimate goal we all shared."

Source

Don't Let the Door Hit Ya

Brian Cashman addressed the A-Rod situation with a prepared statement and possibly a veiled shot.

"I received a message from Scott Boras last night informing me that Alex Rodriguez formally opted out of the final three seasons of his contract," Yankees general manager Brian Cashman said in a statement released Monday. "We always understood that it was his contractual right to do so.

"We expressed our interest in keeping him in pinstripes, and requested the opportunity to convey those feelings to him directly with the Steinbrenner family in an open, face-to-face dialogue.

"Alex was a key part of our success over the last four seasons, and I appreciate having the opportunity to work with him. I wish Alex, Cynthia and their growing family the best of luck in the future. I only wish we could have raised a championship trophy together during his time here, which was the ultimate goal we all shared."

Source

MLB Hand Slaps Boras; Agent Repents

It didn't take Major League Baseball long to respond to the ill time announcement of A-Rod's pending free agency.

"We were very disappointed that Scott Boras would try to upstage our premier baseball event of the season with his announcement," Bob DuPuy, baseball's chief operating officer, said Monday in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

"There was no reason to make an announcement last night other than to try to put his selfish interests and that of one individual player above the overall good of the game," DuPuy said. "Last night and today belong to the Boston Red Sox, who should be celebrated for their achievement, and to the Colorado Rockies, who made such an unbelievable run to the World Series."
Knowing that he has to do business with the Red Sox and Rockies, Boras was quick to apologize.

"I apologize to the Boston Red Sox and Colorado Rockies and their players, Major League Baseball and its players, and baseball fans everywhere for that interference," he said in a statement. "The teams and players involved deserved to be the focus of the evening and honored with the utmost respect. The unfortunate result was not my intent, but is solely my fault. I could have handled this situation better, and for that I am truly sorry."

We're sure if you asked Boras if he had it all to do over again, he would respond yes to repeating his actions.

Source

MLB Hand Slaps Boras; Agent Repents

It didn't take Major League Baseball long to respond to the ill time announcement of A-Rod's pending free agency.

"We were very disappointed that Scott Boras would try to upstage our premier baseball event of the season with his announcement," Bob DuPuy, baseball's chief operating officer, said Monday in an e-mail to The Associated Press.

"There was no reason to make an announcement last night other than to try to put his selfish interests and that of one individual player above the overall good of the game," DuPuy said. "Last night and today belong to the Boston Red Sox, who should be celebrated for their achievement, and to the Colorado Rockies, who made such an unbelievable run to the World Series."
Knowing that he has to do business with the Red Sox and Rockies, Boras was quick to apologize.

"I apologize to the Boston Red Sox and Colorado Rockies and their players, Major League Baseball and its players, and baseball fans everywhere for that interference," he said in a statement. "The teams and players involved deserved to be the focus of the evening and honored with the utmost respect. The unfortunate result was not my intent, but is solely my fault. I could have handled this situation better, and for that I am truly sorry."

We're sure if you asked Boras if he had it all to do over again, he would respond yes to repeating his actions.

Source

Tigers Acquire Renteria

The Detroit Tigers, according to Buster Olney, are players in the Alex Rodriguez sweepsstakes, but it would not include a move back to shortstop. The Tigers acquired shortstop Edgar Renteria from the Braves for rookie starting pitcher Jair Jurrjens and outfielder Gorkys Hernandez.

The Braves will be handing the full time shortstop job to Yuniel Escobar.

Tigers Acquire Renteria

The Detroit Tigers, according to Buster Olney, are players in the Alex Rodriguez sweepsstakes, but it would not include a move back to shortstop. The Tigers acquired shortstop Edgar Renteria from the Braves for rookie starting pitcher Jair Jurrjens and outfielder Gorkys Hernandez.

The Braves will be handing the full time shortstop job to Yuniel Escobar.

Tampering Rumors Continue to Spread

Source

If you recall there were rumors back in September that A-Rod already had a deal in place with the Cubs, including partial ownership. While it sounded ludicrous and Scott Boras categorically denied it, Ken Rosenthal and others think back room deals were already taking place well before last night's opt out.
The deal is done. Or darn near close to it.
I don't know the team. I don't know the terms. But I know this much: There is no way Alex Rodriguez would have opted out of his contract with the Yankees unless he and his agent, Scott Boras, knew they had a bigger score coming.

Boras doesn't act on impulse. He routinely hoodwinks owners because he outworks and outsmarts them. And even if he doesn't know exactly how this will play out — which I doubt — he surely has, uh, surveyed the landscape.

Some will be outraged that Boras chose the final game of the World Series to drop his latest — and greatest — stink bomb. The more serious concern for baseball is the possibility that Boras already has shopped A-Rod to other clubs, winking and nodding if not outright tampering.


If it's true, hopefully MLB comes down hard on Boras, A-Rod, and whicever teams are involved.

Tampering Rumors Continue to Spread

Source

If you recall there were rumors back in September that A-Rod already had a deal in place with the Cubs, including partial ownership. While it sounded ludicrous and Scott Boras categorically denied it, Ken Rosenthal and others think back room deals were already taking place well before last night's opt out.
The deal is done. Or darn near close to it.
I don't know the team. I don't know the terms. But I know this much: There is no way Alex Rodriguez would have opted out of his contract with the Yankees unless he and his agent, Scott Boras, knew they had a bigger score coming.

Boras doesn't act on impulse. He routinely hoodwinks owners because he outworks and outsmarts them. And even if he doesn't know exactly how this will play out — which I doubt — he surely has, uh, surveyed the landscape.

Some will be outraged that Boras chose the final game of the World Series to drop his latest — and greatest — stink bomb. The more serious concern for baseball is the possibility that Boras already has shopped A-Rod to other clubs, winking and nodding if not outright tampering.


If it's true, hopefully MLB comes down hard on Boras, A-Rod, and whicever teams are involved.

Donnie Baseball Speaks

Courtesy of PeteAbe:

Don Mattingly’s agent, Ray Schultze, just released this statement:

“Don was extremely disappointed to learn today that he wasn’t the organizations choice to fill the managerial vacancy. Instead, he was informed the organization offered the position to Joe Giradi.

Don feels both Joe and Tony Pena represent true professionalism both on and off the field and he was honored to be among them as candidates for the managerial position. Don extends congratulations to Joe and wishes him and the organization good luck next year!

Today is a very difficult day because managing the Yankees was Don’s aspiration and goal since becoming the hitting coach four years ago. Even though this opportunity has passed him by he wants to thank Mr. Steinbrenner for his initial faith, inspiration and support throughout his playing and coaching career.

Don will use this time to reflect on this experience while considering future family and career options. In the meantime, he did inform the Yankee’s that given the circumstances he won’t accept a coaching position within the organization during 2008.”

It's a sad day to see Donnie Baseball go, but we believe Joe Girardi was the correct choice as manager.

Donnie Baseball Speaks

Courtesy of PeteAbe:

Don Mattingly’s agent, Ray Schultze, just released this statement:

“Don was extremely disappointed to learn today that he wasn’t the organizations choice to fill the managerial vacancy. Instead, he was informed the organization offered the position to Joe Giradi.

Don feels both Joe and Tony Pena represent true professionalism both on and off the field and he was honored to be among them as candidates for the managerial position. Don extends congratulations to Joe and wishes him and the organization good luck next year!

Today is a very difficult day because managing the Yankees was Don’s aspiration and goal since becoming the hitting coach four years ago. Even though this opportunity has passed him by he wants to thank Mr. Steinbrenner for his initial faith, inspiration and support throughout his playing and coaching career.

Don will use this time to reflect on this experience while considering future family and career options. In the meantime, he did inform the Yankee’s that given the circumstances he won’t accept a coaching position within the organization during 2008.”

It's a sad day to see Donnie Baseball go, but we believe Joe Girardi was the correct choice as manager.

Sign in Triplicate Please

Joe Girardi will be the next manager of the New York Yankees. According to several sources, the Yankees officially made a contract offer to GI Joe. The contract will be for 3 years, with the money ranging from a reported 4.5 to 6 million in total.

Where does leave Don Mattingly? Possibly in Los Angeles. The Dodgers are reportedly working on a buy out of Grady Little and then will offer a deal to Joe Torre. If that happens, there's a good chance Mattingly could end up on Torre's staff.

Sign in Triplicate Please

Joe Girardi will be the next manager of the New York Yankees. According to several sources, the Yankees officially made a contract offer to GI Joe. The contract will be for 3 years, with the money ranging from a reported 4.5 to 6 million in total.

Where does leave Don Mattingly? Possibly in Los Angeles. The Dodgers are reportedly working on a buy out of Grady Little and then will offer a deal to Joe Torre. If that happens, there's a good chance Mattingly could end up on Torre's staff.

Have Fun in Chicago or Wherever, Whore


Have Fun in Chicago or Wherever, Whore


Sunday, October 28, 2007

B-ye B-ye A-Rod

Alex Rodriguez has notified the Yankees Sunday night that he's opting out of the remaining 3 years of his contract. According to SI - Rodriguez's agent Scott Boras said he sent word of the opt-out in writing Sunday and left phone and text messages for Yankees general manager Brian Cashman.

Team president Randy Levine said the Yankees were unaware of A-Rod's intentions.

There you have it. Apparently there is no answer for just how much money do you need? So A-Rod and Scott Boras, you can take your greed and shove it up your collective asses.

Source

B-ye B-ye A-Rod

Alex Rodriguez has notified the Yankees Sunday night that he's opting out of the remaining 3 years of his contract. According to SI - Rodriguez's agent Scott Boras said he sent word of the opt-out in writing Sunday and left phone and text messages for Yankees general manager Brian Cashman.

Team president Randy Levine said the Yankees were unaware of A-Rod's intentions.

There you have it. Apparently there is no answer for just how much money do you need? So A-Rod and Scott Boras, you can take your greed and shove it up your collective asses.

Source

A PSA for Red Sox Moronation

A PSA that recently aired on Jimmy Kimmel's show...


A PSA for Red Sox Moronation

A PSA that recently aired on Jimmy Kimmel's show...


NFL Week 8

For a variety of reasons we didn't get a chance to do our usual preview of this weekend's games, but here were our picks and the results going into Monday night.

Anyone watching the locals needed a crate of No-Doze to stay awake.

We went 8-4, going into the Monday night game.

Giants -9.5 vs. Miami in London, England.
What a waste of a trip. The weather sucked, the field sucked, the fans were great, but did they really give a fish and chips who won? We took the Giants, laying the points, and not only didn't they cover, they nearly blew the game.
Final- Giants 13 Dolphins 10 WRONG

Bills +3 vs. Jets
How in the name of the late Pete Rozelle were the Jets favored? Mangenius finally pulled Chad Pennington...but with 3:30 left in the game?
Final- Bills 13 Jets 3 RIGHT

Browns -3 at Rams
The Rams had Marc Bulger and Stephen Jackson in the starting lineup and we were tempted, but luckily we stayed with the Browns. And Jackson got hurt again.
Final- Browns 27 Rams 20 RIGHT

Bears -5 vs Lions
We don't trust the Bears, but the Lions have been notoriously bad on the road. We were so wrong on this one. This Bears team is one year removed from the big game???
Final- Lions 17 Bears 6 WRONG

Colts +7 at Panthers
David Carr or Vinny Testaverde? Did it really matter. Can the Colts just play the Pats for the AFC title game and get it over with already? Still wondering who we took?
Final- Colts 31 Panthers 7 RIGHT

Vikings -1 vs. Eagles
Kelly Holcomb was filling in for Tavaris Jackson and we thought that would be enough to take the Vikes at home. Donovan McNabb quieted the critics for a bit.
Final- Eagles 23 Vikings 16 WRONG

Steelers -4 at Bengals
This is clearly a bad Bengals football team. Marvin Lewis is a very good coach, but his head may be on the chopping block. Who had the most input for all the misfits they've either drafted or signed as free agents? We went with Mike Tomlin and his normal jaw all the way.
Final- Steelers 24 Bengals 13 RIGHT

Titans -7 vs. Raiders
Outside of Rob Bironas, the Titans have been unable to put points on the board. We still thought they'd get more than enough against the Raiders. Oops. Btw, Vince Young threw for less yards than Eli Manning!
Final- Titans 13 Raiders 9 WRONG

Chargers -10 vs. Texans
The Chargers are starting to take out their early frustration on the rest of the league. We figured they would.
Final- Chargers 35 Texans 10 RIGHT

Jaguars +3.5 at Bucaneers
No David Garrard, but we don't trust this Bucs squad. Our fears paid off.
Final- Jags 24 Bucs 23 RIGHT

Saints -1.5 at 49ers
How were the Saints favored by so little? Just because Alex Smith was back? Similar situation to the Chargers.
Final- Saints 31 49ers 10 RIGHT

Patriots -14.5 vs. Redskins
When do you not go with the Pats, when they're favored by 50? Even then they probably would find a way to cover. We're just glad they don't play the Giants until the last week of the season. Hopefully they'll call of the dogs by then.
Final- Patriots 52 Redskins 7 RIGHT

NFL Week 8

For a variety of reasons we didn't get a chance to do our usual preview of this weekend's games, but here were our picks and the results going into Monday night.

Anyone watching the locals needed a crate of No-Doze to stay awake.

We went 8-4, going into the Monday night game.

Giants -9.5 vs. Miami in London, England.
What a waste of a trip. The weather sucked, the field sucked, the fans were great, but did they really give a fish and chips who won? We took the Giants, laying the points, and not only didn't they cover, they nearly blew the game.
Final- Giants 13 Dolphins 10 WRONG

Bills +3 vs. Jets
How in the name of the late Pete Rozelle were the Jets favored? Mangenius finally pulled Chad Pennington...but with 3:30 left in the game?
Final- Bills 13 Jets 3 RIGHT

Browns -3 at Rams
The Rams had Marc Bulger and Stephen Jackson in the starting lineup and we were tempted, but luckily we stayed with the Browns. And Jackson got hurt again.
Final- Browns 27 Rams 20 RIGHT

Bears -5 vs Lions
We don't trust the Bears, but the Lions have been notoriously bad on the road. We were so wrong on this one. This Bears team is one year removed from the big game???
Final- Lions 17 Bears 6 WRONG

Colts +7 at Panthers
David Carr or Vinny Testaverde? Did it really matter. Can the Colts just play the Pats for the AFC title game and get it over with already? Still wondering who we took?
Final- Colts 31 Panthers 7 RIGHT

Vikings -1 vs. Eagles
Kelly Holcomb was filling in for Tavaris Jackson and we thought that would be enough to take the Vikes at home. Donovan McNabb quieted the critics for a bit.
Final- Eagles 23 Vikings 16 WRONG

Steelers -4 at Bengals
This is clearly a bad Bengals football team. Marvin Lewis is a very good coach, but his head may be on the chopping block. Who had the most input for all the misfits they've either drafted or signed as free agents? We went with Mike Tomlin and his normal jaw all the way.
Final- Steelers 24 Bengals 13 RIGHT

Titans -7 vs. Raiders
Outside of Rob Bironas, the Titans have been unable to put points on the board. We still thought they'd get more than enough against the Raiders. Oops. Btw, Vince Young threw for less yards than Eli Manning!
Final- Titans 13 Raiders 9 WRONG

Chargers -10 vs. Texans
The Chargers are starting to take out their early frustration on the rest of the league. We figured they would.
Final- Chargers 35 Texans 10 RIGHT

Jaguars +3.5 at Bucaneers
No David Garrard, but we don't trust this Bucs squad. Our fears paid off.
Final- Jags 24 Bucs 23 RIGHT

Saints -1.5 at 49ers
How were the Saints favored by so little? Just because Alex Smith was back? Similar situation to the Chargers.
Final- Saints 31 49ers 10 RIGHT

Patriots -14.5 vs. Redskins
When do you not go with the Pats, when they're favored by 50? Even then they probably would find a way to cover. We're just glad they don't play the Giants until the last week of the season. Hopefully they'll call of the dogs by then.
Final- Patriots 52 Redskins 7 RIGHT

Wells Fargo

That be the name on the truck that will be backing up to Alex Rodriguez's house to unload the money. Whether he opts out or not, the soon to be AL MVP is on the brink(Brinks?) of getting his 2nd break the bank contract.

Word from several sources is that the Yankees are preparing an offer that will, hopefully, keep him from being a free agent 10 days after the World Series ends.

There is currently 3 years remaining on his existing deal, with Scott Boras throwing out numbers like 12 years, $360 million. While A-Rod will get plenty, Boras seems to be smoking his own propaganda. The reported offer by the Yankees would be somewhere in the neighborhood of 5 years for $150 million, giving him an 8 year deal overall. And, most importantly to the Yankees, the Texas Rangers would still be on the hook for $21 million.

Wells Fargo

That be the name on the truck that will be backing up to Alex Rodriguez's house to unload the money. Whether he opts out or not, the soon to be AL MVP is on the brink(Brinks?) of getting his 2nd break the bank contract.

Word from several sources is that the Yankees are preparing an offer that will, hopefully, keep him from being a free agent 10 days after the World Series ends.

There is currently 3 years remaining on his existing deal, with Scott Boras throwing out numbers like 12 years, $360 million. While A-Rod will get plenty, Boras seems to be smoking his own propaganda. The reported offer by the Yankees would be somewhere in the neighborhood of 5 years for $150 million, giving him an 8 year deal overall. And, most importantly to the Yankees, the Texas Rangers would still be on the hook for $21 million.

The Manager is...

JoeDon Girardingly...or is it DonJoe Mattinardi? Depending on whose opinion you read, Don Mattingly will definitely be the next manager of the Yankees. Or Joe Girardi is definitely the next manager. The King and his pretenders to the throne, related and unrelated, need to make an announcement soon so that the collective press can stop spinning their wheels.

Brian Cashman knows how much Don Mattingly means to the Yankees tradition, so he's behind Mattingly for manager.

Brian Cashman knows the Yankees need an experienced guy who knows about decision making and leading a team, so he's clearly backing Joe Girardi.

And so it goes.

Whomever is named manager will be subject to a plethora of second guessing once the season starts, as will ownership. Get off to a good start, we told you we picked the right guy. Get off to a bad start, we told you, you should have picked the other guy.

As of early Sunday, neither Mattingly or Girardi had been contacted by the Yankees. At least that is what their public response is. With the World Series a very strong possibility to end this evening, the announcement of the new manager could come as early as tomorrow.

The Manager is...

JoeDon Girardingly...or is it DonJoe Mattinardi? Depending on whose opinion you read, Don Mattingly will definitely be the next manager of the Yankees. Or Joe Girardi is definitely the next manager. The King and his pretenders to the throne, related and unrelated, need to make an announcement soon so that the collective press can stop spinning their wheels.

Brian Cashman knows how much Don Mattingly means to the Yankees tradition, so he's behind Mattingly for manager.

Brian Cashman knows the Yankees need an experienced guy who knows about decision making and leading a team, so he's clearly backing Joe Girardi.

And so it goes.

Whomever is named manager will be subject to a plethora of second guessing once the season starts, as will ownership. Get off to a good start, we told you we picked the right guy. Get off to a bad start, we told you, you should have picked the other guy.

As of early Sunday, neither Mattingly or Girardi had been contacted by the Yankees. At least that is what their public response is. With the World Series a very strong possibility to end this evening, the announcement of the new manager could come as early as tomorrow.

Thursday, October 25, 2007

Yankee Auction for Good Cause

I received this email this morning from Tom Kackley, an employee of the Trenton Thunder.

Hi blogger people.....pardon the intrusion.

If you can help in any way.....perhaps a link on your blog to my charity auction.
I work as a minor league equipment manager in the Yankees system. This season I collected whatever goodies I could to hold an auction to benefit The Domestic Violence Project. It's all legit...100% of the profit goes to the DVP.

My hope is that I can encourage bloggers to pass along a little info about the auction to their readers so that we can raise as much money as possible for the women and kids affected by domestic violence.

or you can link through the Trenton Thunder website here: http://www.trentonthunder.com/

We have a nice collection of autographed balls, game used equipment from some high profile prospects, and some Yankee clothing that isn't available elsewhere.
I've been working in baseball 20 years, all at the minor league levels. Ten years ago, about a week before opening day, my wife's sister was murdered by her husband. I was angry for some time over the fact that I didn't get the chance to do something to save her. So, since then what I do is raise her son, and now this auction.

Hope you can help. Thanks.
Tom in Ohio

Sounds like an excellent cause indeed

Yankee Auction for Good Cause

I received this email this morning from Tom Kackley, an employee of the Trenton Thunder.

Hi blogger people.....pardon the intrusion.

If you can help in any way.....perhaps a link on your blog to my charity auction.
I work as a minor league equipment manager in the Yankees system. This season I collected whatever goodies I could to hold an auction to benefit The Domestic Violence Project. It's all legit...100% of the profit goes to the DVP.

My hope is that I can encourage bloggers to pass along a little info about the auction to their readers so that we can raise as much money as possible for the women and kids affected by domestic violence.

or you can link through the Trenton Thunder website here: http://www.trentonthunder.com/

We have a nice collection of autographed balls, game used equipment from some high profile prospects, and some Yankee clothing that isn't available elsewhere.
I've been working in baseball 20 years, all at the minor league levels. Ten years ago, about a week before opening day, my wife's sister was murdered by her husband. I was angry for some time over the fact that I didn't get the chance to do something to save her. So, since then what I do is raise her son, and now this auction.

Hope you can help. Thanks.
Tom in Ohio

Sounds like an excellent cause indeed

Wednesday, October 24, 2007

Like it or Not, the World Series Goes on

Yes, there will be a World Series. Yes, there will be a World Series winner. And unfortunately, yes, it will most likely be the Red Sox. While the Rockies have captured our attention with their phenomenal play since the stretch run, 21 wins in 22 games, we're not convinced. The Rocks were a barely .500 team before their hot streak.

Make no mistake though, we will be rooting for the Rockies rooting against the Red Sox. We'll let 2-faced politicos like Rudy Guiliani tell a Boston crowd that he's rooting for the Red Sox in the WS. "I'm an AL fan". Yeah, okay Rudy.

The difference in this series should be Josh Beckett. He's an arrogant little prick, but right now no pitcher is more dominant than he. Beckett actually reminds us of a young Roger Clemens, and we didn't like that guy either.

The lack of a DH in games 3 thru 5 could also have a big impact on the series. You can't take David Ortiz's bat out of the lineup for up to 3 games. And Kevin Youkillis has been swinging the bat well again. Our guess is that Terry Francona's lineup will depend on the series situation. Choosing offense or defense depending on who leads in games and by how many.

We certainly won't be watching much of the series, especially if the Red Sox do as well as we expect. We've also hit our Joe Buck tolerance level for the season.

Win Rockies, Win.

Like it or Not, the World Series Goes on

Yes, there will be a World Series. Yes, there will be a World Series winner. And unfortunately, yes, it will most likely be the Red Sox. While the Rockies have captured our attention with their phenomenal play since the stretch run, 21 wins in 22 games, we're not convinced. The Rocks were a barely .500 team before their hot streak.

Make no mistake though, we will be rooting for the Rockies rooting against the Red Sox. We'll let 2-faced politicos like Rudy Guiliani tell a Boston crowd that he's rooting for the Red Sox in the WS. "I'm an AL fan". Yeah, okay Rudy.

The difference in this series should be Josh Beckett. He's an arrogant little prick, but right now no pitcher is more dominant than he. Beckett actually reminds us of a young Roger Clemens, and we didn't like that guy either.

The lack of a DH in games 3 thru 5 could also have a big impact on the series. You can't take David Ortiz's bat out of the lineup for up to 3 games. And Kevin Youkillis has been swinging the bat well again. Our guess is that Terry Francona's lineup will depend on the series situation. Choosing offense or defense depending on who leads in games and by how many.

We certainly won't be watching much of the series, especially if the Red Sox do as well as we expect. We've also hit our Joe Buck tolerance level for the season.

Win Rockies, Win.

A Name with a Spark

One name you don't hear brought up too often when teams are looking for manager is Sparky Lyle. The former Cy Young (to Sayonora) winner has managed the Somerset Patriots of the independent Atlantic League since 1998. He's won 3 pennants and has good success in terms of players getting deals with major league affiliates.

Sparky was one of the biggest characters to ever don a Yankees uniform and his performance on the field was outstanding. He helped turned the poor 1970s teams into pennant contenders and champions.

It's possible that Sparky doesn't want to manage at the big league level, but it would be cool if the Yankees considered him. Then again, King George may still be upset about, "The Bronx Zoo". At the very least some consideration for a bench coach position should be given.

A Name with a Spark

One name you don't hear brought up too often when teams are looking for manager is Sparky Lyle. The former Cy Young (to Sayonora) winner has managed the Somerset Patriots of the independent Atlantic League since 1998. He's won 3 pennants and has good success in terms of players getting deals with major league affiliates.

Sparky was one of the biggest characters to ever don a Yankees uniform and his performance on the field was outstanding. He helped turned the poor 1970s teams into pennant contenders and champions.

It's possible that Sparky doesn't want to manage at the big league level, but it would be cool if the Yankees considered him. Then again, King George may still be upset about, "The Bronx Zoo". At the very least some consideration for a bench coach position should be given.

Thought You Had a Bad Day?

Have one of those days where you feel like the floor came out from under you? This model did, literally. Gotta love how no one jumps up to help. Even the model does seems to do it reluctantly.


Thought You Had a Bad Day?

Have one of those days where you feel like the floor came out from under you? This model did, literally. Gotta love how no one jumps up to help. Even the model does seems to do it reluctantly.


The Real Reasons Joe Torre Said No

In case you missed the Top 10 reasons why Joe said No, here they are...


The Real Reasons Joe Torre Said No

In case you missed the Top 10 reasons why Joe said No, here they are...


Life Brings Perspective

Tragedy always brings perspective to life, especially concerning the importance, or lack thereof, of sports. While reading some more on Derek Jeter's statement in the Journal News, we came across this sad item.

Team mourns intern: Matthew Wasser, a 22-year-old intern in the team's media-relations department, was killed Sunday morning when a cab he was riding in was struck by a driver changed with operating under the influence.

Wasser was in Boston working for Major League Baseball at the Indians-Red Sox series. The Bernardsville, N.J., native had started with the Yankees last spring.

"A loss of this magnitude is impossible to put into words," media-relations director Jason Zillo said. "The Yankees family reaches out to the Wasser family during this tremendous time of grief, as we keep his loved ones and friends close to our heart."

Source

Makes you not really too concerned who the next manager is. We send our thoughts and prayers out to Matthew Wasser's family. Rest in Peace.

Life Brings Perspective

Tragedy always brings perspective to life, especially concerning the importance, or lack thereof, of sports. While reading some more on Derek Jeter's statement in the Journal News, we came across this sad item.

Team mourns intern: Matthew Wasser, a 22-year-old intern in the team's media-relations department, was killed Sunday morning when a cab he was riding in was struck by a driver changed with operating under the influence.

Wasser was in Boston working for Major League Baseball at the Indians-Red Sox series. The Bernardsville, N.J., native had started with the Yankees last spring.

"A loss of this magnitude is impossible to put into words," media-relations director Jason Zillo said. "The Yankees family reaches out to the Wasser family during this tremendous time of grief, as we keep his loved ones and friends close to our heart."

Source

Makes you not really too concerned who the next manager is. We send our thoughts and prayers out to Matthew Wasser's family. Rest in Peace.

Donnie Baseball Steps Up to the Plate

Don Mattingly completed his lengthy interview with the Tampa boys yesterday. Click here to hear his post-interview press conference with reporters.

Tony Pena gets his turn today, and unless there's candidates we don't know about, that's it for the "process".

Donnie Baseball Steps Up to the Plate

Don Mattingly completed his lengthy interview with the Tampa boys yesterday. Click here to hear his post-interview press conference with reporters.

Tony Pena gets his turn today, and unless there's candidates we don't know about, that's it for the "process".

Torre's Turn

Joe Torre had the opportunity last night to answer Hank Steinbrenner and his other critics. Torre, spoke to Bob Costas on HBO Sports with Bryant Gumbel and handled everything with his usual class and tact.

As you recall, Hank made Torre out to be an ingrate (Dad, always did like you best) in response to Torre's use of the word "insult" for his contract offer. Torre's response did have a veiled shot at Hank.

"Well, I'd like to think I worked together with people to do things. I certainly have never bypassed the fact that George Steinbrenner gave me this opportunity. ... For some reason ... he [Hank] thought I was disrespectful because I said I was insulted. But the insult, the insult came from the incentive-based situation. Unless you understand what sport is all about and how important winning is to you, I don't think you understand the insult part of this thing."
"I said I've been here a long time and I've never needed to be motivated," Torre said. "Plus, in my contract that I get a million-dollar bonus if we do win the World Series. So that's always been there. And, you know, as far as needing incentive to go ahead and win a ballgame, that, that I thought I used the term 'insulting.' And, and that's the way I felt."
Perhaps Jon Heyman should consider Torre's remarks.

Source

Torre's Turn

Joe Torre had the opportunity last night to answer Hank Steinbrenner and his other critics. Torre, spoke to Bob Costas on HBO Sports with Bryant Gumbel and handled everything with his usual class and tact.

As you recall, Hank made Torre out to be an ingrate (Dad, always did like you best) in response to Torre's use of the word "insult" for his contract offer. Torre's response did have a veiled shot at Hank.

"Well, I'd like to think I worked together with people to do things. I certainly have never bypassed the fact that George Steinbrenner gave me this opportunity. ... For some reason ... he [Hank] thought I was disrespectful because I said I was insulted. But the insult, the insult came from the incentive-based situation. Unless you understand what sport is all about and how important winning is to you, I don't think you understand the insult part of this thing."
"I said I've been here a long time and I've never needed to be motivated," Torre said. "Plus, in my contract that I get a million-dollar bonus if we do win the World Series. So that's always been there. And, you know, as far as needing incentive to go ahead and win a ballgame, that, that I thought I used the term 'insulting.' And, and that's the way I felt."
Perhaps Jon Heyman should consider Torre's remarks.

Source

Tuesday, October 23, 2007

The Captain Speaks

Derek Jeter released this statement this afternoon:

"Out of my great respect for Mr. Torre, I have refrained from comment until he had a chance to address the public.

"In my eyes, Joe Torre is more than a Hall of Fame manager. He is a friend for life, and the relationship we have shared has helped shape me in ways that transcend the game of baseball. His class, dignity, and the way he respected those around him--from ballplayers to batboys--are all qualities that are easy to admire, but difficult to duplicate.

"I have known Mr. Torre for a good majority of my adult life, and there has been no bigger influence on my professional development. It was a privilege to play for him on the field, and an honor to learn from him off the field."


Source

The Captain Speaks

Derek Jeter released this statement this afternoon:

"Out of my great respect for Mr. Torre, I have refrained from comment until he had a chance to address the public.

"In my eyes, Joe Torre is more than a Hall of Fame manager. He is a friend for life, and the relationship we have shared has helped shape me in ways that transcend the game of baseball. His class, dignity, and the way he respected those around him--from ballplayers to batboys--are all qualities that are easy to admire, but difficult to duplicate.

"I have known Mr. Torre for a good majority of my adult life, and there has been no bigger influence on my professional development. It was a privilege to play for him on the field, and an honor to learn from him off the field."


Source

NFL Recap - Week 7

Big Blue made us quite happy again this past Sunday. We're not delusional, this is a decent, not superb team. But the winning the games they have to. With a victory against Miami of England, they'll be 6-2, setting Tom Coughlin up for his usual horrible 2nd half.

But here's a look at this past week's games, in which we went an excellent 9-5!
For the season 52-46-6

Giants -9 vs. 49ers
If only the Giants could have manhandled Trent Dilfer like that in Super Bowl XXXV. The 33-9 final score didn't indicate just how lopsided this game was.
We easily got that one RIGHT.


Bengals -6 vs. Jets
Close game, but another late, bad INT by Chad "barely hanging on to my job" Pennington. Jets 'D' torched for 31 points in the 38-31 final.
We're RIGHT again.

Redskins -8.5 vs. Cardinals
If only Tim Rattay had played all day, we might have gotten one. Kurt Warner played and did a decent job. A rare Neil Rackers missed PAT blew this one for the Cards. Redskins hang on by the "skin" of their teeth, 21-19.
We we were WRONG.

Saints -9 vs. Falcons
Saints are slowly coming back to life, but how was this not a blow out? Byron Leftwich and Joey Harrington picked apart the Saints defense. It's a win, but 22-16 is not impressive.
We we were WRONG.

Bills +3 vs. Ravens
We were on the money here and that was without knowing Kyle Boller would be at QB for the Ravens. The Bills gave up 114 yards to their old back, Willis McGahee, and only managed 242 total yards. And won, 19-14.
We were RIGHT.

Patriots -16.5 at Dolphins
Patriots 49 Dolphins 28. 'nuff said.
We were RIGHT.

Bucs +2.5 at Lions
We said the Lions are murder at home and we should stayed with that. Don't let the close score fool you, this was a 16 point game with a little over 2 minutes to play.
We were oh so WRONG.

Titans -1 at Texans
The Titans managed to blow a 32-7 lead (yeah, we still hurt from last year's Giants-Titans game), and still managed to win on Rob Bironas' 8th FG of the day.
We were barely RIGHT.

Raiders -3 vs. Chiefs
Anyone know how the Chiefs are atop of the AFC West? A defensive battle, though LJ did top 100 yards. And the Chiefs won 12-10.
We was robbed..nah we were WRONG.

Vikings +9.5 at Cowboys
We said their 'D' was overrated and their QB stunk, so why did we take them? Granted it was only a 10 point, so we narrowly missed. I guess the question should be why didn't the Cowboys beat them by more.
We were WRONG again.

Bears +5 at Eagles
Wow, what has happened in Philly? They didn't play that badly on Sunday, but Brian Griese, never to be confused with his Dad, threw for 322 yards. He also found Muhsin Muhammad in the back of the end zone with 9 seconds left for a 19-16 Bears win.
Oh yes, we were RIGHT.

Seahawks -8.5 vs. Rams
You cannot tell me anyone thought the Rams would be winless for 6 weeks. Marc Bulger was back in the lineup and sure enough they're now winless for 7 weeks. The Seahawks romped 33-6.
We were RIGHT.

Steelers -3.5 at Broncos
Great game on SNF. Steelers came back from 14 down to tie things up, but Jason Elam blasted a 49-yd game winner as the clock went bye-bye. However...
We were RIGHT.

Colts -3 at Jacksonville
Like we said last week, how were the Colts only favored by 3? It was close early, but 29-7 was no surprise.
We were RIGHT.

NFL Recap - Week 7

Big Blue made us quite happy again this past Sunday. We're not delusional, this is a decent, not superb team. But the winning the games they have to. With a victory against Miami of England, they'll be 6-2, setting Tom Coughlin up for his usual horrible 2nd half.

But here's a look at this past week's games, in which we went an excellent 9-5!
For the season 52-46-6

Giants -9 vs. 49ers
If only the Giants could have manhandled Trent Dilfer like that in Super Bowl XXXV. The 33-9 final score didn't indicate just how lopsided this game was.
We easily got that one RIGHT.


Bengals -6 vs. Jets
Close game, but another late, bad INT by Chad "barely hanging on to my job" Pennington. Jets 'D' torched for 31 points in the 38-31 final.
We're RIGHT again.

Redskins -8.5 vs. Cardinals
If only Tim Rattay had played all day, we might have gotten one. Kurt Warner played and did a decent job. A rare Neil Rackers missed PAT blew this one for the Cards. Redskins hang on by the "skin" of their teeth, 21-19.
We we were WRONG.

Saints -9 vs. Falcons
Saints are slowly coming back to life, but how was this not a blow out? Byron Leftwich and Joey Harrington picked apart the Saints defense. It's a win, but 22-16 is not impressive.
We we were WRONG.

Bills +3 vs. Ravens
We were on the money here and that was without knowing Kyle Boller would be at QB for the Ravens. The Bills gave up 114 yards to their old back, Willis McGahee, and only managed 242 total yards. And won, 19-14.
We were RIGHT.

Patriots -16.5 at Dolphins
Patriots 49 Dolphins 28. 'nuff said.
We were RIGHT.

Bucs +2.5 at Lions
We said the Lions are murder at home and we should stayed with that. Don't let the close score fool you, this was a 16 point game with a little over 2 minutes to play.
We were oh so WRONG.

Titans -1 at Texans
The Titans managed to blow a 32-7 lead (yeah, we still hurt from last year's Giants-Titans game), and still managed to win on Rob Bironas' 8th FG of the day.
We were barely RIGHT.

Raiders -3 vs. Chiefs
Anyone know how the Chiefs are atop of the AFC West? A defensive battle, though LJ did top 100 yards. And the Chiefs won 12-10.
We was robbed..nah we were WRONG.

Vikings +9.5 at Cowboys
We said their 'D' was overrated and their QB stunk, so why did we take them? Granted it was only a 10 point, so we narrowly missed. I guess the question should be why didn't the Cowboys beat them by more.
We were WRONG again.

Bears +5 at Eagles
Wow, what has happened in Philly? They didn't play that badly on Sunday, but Brian Griese, never to be confused with his Dad, threw for 322 yards. He also found Muhsin Muhammad in the back of the end zone with 9 seconds left for a 19-16 Bears win.
Oh yes, we were RIGHT.

Seahawks -8.5 vs. Rams
You cannot tell me anyone thought the Rams would be winless for 6 weeks. Marc Bulger was back in the lineup and sure enough they're now winless for 7 weeks. The Seahawks romped 33-6.
We were RIGHT.

Steelers -3.5 at Broncos
Great game on SNF. Steelers came back from 14 down to tie things up, but Jason Elam blasted a 49-yd game winner as the clock went bye-bye. However...
We were RIGHT.

Colts -3 at Jacksonville
Like we said last week, how were the Colts only favored by 3? It was close early, but 29-7 was no surprise.
We were RIGHT.

MMD Answer Levine

Mike and the Mad Dog opened their show today with a response to Randy Levine's comments in the New York Times. Levine comes off looking like an even bigger buffoon than before.

Franseca took the point since he has been the most critical of Levine over time, including well before the Joe Torre situation came up. They accurately pointed out that Levine is thin skinned and needs to toughen up if he is going to put himself in the forefront of the Yankees hierarchy.

Levine stated that MMD criticized Levine because their YES contract comes up next year. As Francesa pointed out, "how would criticizing help negotiate?".

Clearly MMD do not need YES, but they do need MMD.

Kudos, and I don't give them to MMD often, for defending Tom Verducci as well.

MMD Answer Levine

Mike and the Mad Dog opened their show today with a response to Randy Levine's comments in the New York Times. Levine comes off looking like an even bigger buffoon than before.

Franseca took the point since he has been the most critical of Levine over time, including well before the Joe Torre situation came up. They accurately pointed out that Levine is thin skinned and needs to toughen up if he is going to put himself in the forefront of the Yankees hierarchy.

Levine stated that MMD criticized Levine because their YES contract comes up next year. As Francesa pointed out, "how would criticizing help negotiate?".

Clearly MMD do not need YES, but they do need MMD.

Kudos, and I don't give them to MMD often, for defending Tom Verducci as well.

Mo Backs off Remarks

Mariano Rivera was clearly upset at the conclusion of the ALDS when queried about the possible end of Joe Torre's managerial tenure. He remained that way when it was announced last week that Torre would definitely not be back. But yesterday he backed off his original words.

"I know the Yankees are going to do whatever they think is best for the team. I always respect them for that," Rivera told Sirrius Satellite Radio when asked if he needs to know who the new manager will be before he starts to negotiate a new contract. "The Yankees always have given the opportunity to give us the best everything: the best players, the best coaching staff. They always tried to do that. I don't think it (Torre leaving) has (anything to do) with me, in terms of signing with the Yankees."
Source

Mo Backs off Remarks

Mariano Rivera was clearly upset at the conclusion of the ALDS when queried about the possible end of Joe Torre's managerial tenure. He remained that way when it was announced last week that Torre would definitely not be back. But yesterday he backed off his original words.

"I know the Yankees are going to do whatever they think is best for the team. I always respect them for that," Rivera told Sirrius Satellite Radio when asked if he needs to know who the new manager will be before he starts to negotiate a new contract. "The Yankees always have given the opportunity to give us the best everything: the best players, the best coaching staff. They always tried to do that. I don't think it (Torre leaving) has (anything to do) with me, in terms of signing with the Yankees."
Source

Levine Comes out Firing

First we had Hank Steinbrenner stepping in front of the moving freight train in his defense of Daddy. Now Mr. Politico, Randy Levine, has come out with both one barrel firing at his critics. He does not address all criticism, only that which came from people who he feels have a conflict of interest.

First he attacked Mike and the Mad Dog, because Levine has been openly critical about spending money to air their show on YES, and they have a new negotiation coming up.

Then he attacked Tom Verducci, one of the most respected men in the business, because he once collaborated on a book with Joe Torre.

And finally, John Kruk, of all people, because he and Torre share an agent.

Levine had no problem though calling up a NY Times reporter, Richard Sandomir, whom he once did a major favor for, so he could be heard.

This is NOT getting any better.

Source

Levine Comes out Firing

First we had Hank Steinbrenner stepping in front of the moving freight train in his defense of Daddy. Now Mr. Politico, Randy Levine, has come out with both one barrel firing at his critics. He does not address all criticism, only that which came from people who he feels have a conflict of interest.

First he attacked Mike and the Mad Dog, because Levine has been openly critical about spending money to air their show on YES, and they have a new negotiation coming up.

Then he attacked Tom Verducci, one of the most respected men in the business, because he once collaborated on a book with Joe Torre.

And finally, John Kruk, of all people, because he and Torre share an agent.

Levine had no problem though calling up a NY Times reporter, Richard Sandomir, whom he once did a major favor for, so he could be heard.

This is NOT getting any better.

Source

Now Batting, #23, Don Mattingly, #23

Don Mattingly gets his turn before the Yankees brass today in the interview "process". I cringe every time I hear that word. Joe Girardi met with the suits yesterday for about 5 hours. He and Brian Cashman met with King George at the royal palace between 2 meetings at Legends Field.

The plan is for each of the candidates to do a Q&A with reporters in the evening. Girardi came off very polished and sincere in answering each of the questions posed to him. You can go to Pete Abraham's blog to hear the full audio.

Now Batting, #23, Don Mattingly, #23

Don Mattingly gets his turn before the Yankees brass today in the interview "process". I cringe every time I hear that word. Joe Girardi met with the suits yesterday for about 5 hours. He and Brian Cashman met with King George at the royal palace between 2 meetings at Legends Field.

The plan is for each of the candidates to do a Q&A with reporters in the evening. Girardi came off very polished and sincere in answering each of the questions posed to him. You can go to Pete Abraham's blog to hear the full audio.