http://www.azcardinals.com/news-and-events/article-1/The-Plays-That-Shaped-The-Season/76323612-943a-47f9-8467-83984f17779c
We all know that Aaron Rodgers' belt dance is lame, but does it inspire defenders to play better?
http://www.i94sports.com/articles/green-bay-packers/aaron-rodgers-stop-qthe-beltq-celebration.html
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Sharper could be franchised. If not. . .
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/15/saints-will-franchise-sharper-unless-they-dont/
Darren Sharper was an overrated Packer. Now he appears to be going to Canton because of one thing, he takes gambles. All the time. Going for the big hit or the key interception at all costs, including being left in the dust. As a member of the Saint's Super Bowl championship team, Sharper will be in line for a huge raise. Would Sharper look good next to Collins? Would certainly be an upgrade over Atari Bigby? Was that Bridge burned? Would Thompson pay that much for a Darren Sharper type? While the answer to all of those questions is almost certainly no, it's interesting to think about.
Darren Sharper was an overrated Packer. Now he appears to be going to Canton because of one thing, he takes gambles. All the time. Going for the big hit or the key interception at all costs, including being left in the dust. As a member of the Saint's Super Bowl championship team, Sharper will be in line for a huge raise. Would Sharper look good next to Collins? Would certainly be an upgrade over Atari Bigby? Was that Bridge burned? Would Thompson pay that much for a Darren Sharper type? While the answer to all of those questions is almost certainly no, it's interesting to think about.
Maybe the Rays for Branyan?
http://twitter.com/Ken_Rosenthal/status/9220069651
I'm sure the Indians will sign him given that they are offering a Major League deal. They have an opportunity to swing him at the deadline for some prospects. Nice buy-low deal for the Tribe.
I'm sure the Indians will sign him given that they are offering a Major League deal. They have an opportunity to swing him at the deadline for some prospects. Nice buy-low deal for the Tribe.
Rockies and Dodgers show interest in Gagne or is it vice versa?
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/02/sizing-up-interest-in-eric-gagne.html
Eric Gagne says he wants to play for the Dodgers again. Eric, hear me out on this one. You were great in LA, the fans couldn't get enough of you. But guess what, Paul Lo Duca and his HGH factory are no longer there. You were on the Mitchell Report. You were only incredible because of the HGH, and now your biggest supplier is gone. You're finished Gagne, and somehow you are the only one who knows that.
Eric Gagne says he wants to play for the Dodgers again. Eric, hear me out on this one. You were great in LA, the fans couldn't get enough of you. But guess what, Paul Lo Duca and his HGH factory are no longer there. You were on the Mitchell Report. You were only incredible because of the HGH, and now your biggest supplier is gone. You're finished Gagne, and somehow you are the only one who knows that.
Two former Brewers platooning?
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100216&content_id=8079340&vkey=news_cle&fext=.jsp&c_id=cle&partnerId=rss_cle
Potentially Russel Branyan and Matt LaPorta, yes that Matt LaPorta, could see themselves in a platoon with one another. An interesting thought for Brewers' fans, as LaPorta was the dynamic prospect that was involved in the CC Sabathia trade, while Branyan played a big role on the 2008 team in his platoon with Bill Hall at 3B, including his memorable shot in the bottom of the 9th against Joe Nathan and the Twins to send the game into extras. A far cry from last season for Branyan, as he had a huge first half before finishing with 30+ HR in his first real shot at full-time ABs for Jack Z's Mariners.
Potentially Russel Branyan and Matt LaPorta, yes that Matt LaPorta, could see themselves in a platoon with one another. An interesting thought for Brewers' fans, as LaPorta was the dynamic prospect that was involved in the CC Sabathia trade, while Branyan played a big role on the 2008 team in his platoon with Bill Hall at 3B, including his memorable shot in the bottom of the 9th against Joe Nathan and the Twins to send the game into extras. A far cry from last season for Branyan, as he had a huge first half before finishing with 30+ HR in his first real shot at full-time ABs for Jack Z's Mariners.
Gary Sheffield not willing to take a bench spot
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100215&content_id=8078126
Gary, face it, you're going to be sitting down a majority of this season, whether it is on someone's bench or on your couch. When the Nationals don't want you to start for them, you have a problem.
Gary, face it, you're going to be sitting down a majority of this season, whether it is on someone's bench or on your couch. When the Nationals don't want you to start for them, you have a problem.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
A couple of teams watch Eric Gagne
http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2010/writers/jon_heyman/02/15/heyman.scoop/1.html
The Rockies and Gagne's old Dodgers watched him throw 2 days ago, with the Rockies expressing an interest in offering him a deal. Gagne was underrated as a Brewer, but that doesn't mean that he was worth anything close to the $10 million he was paid. The Rockies thought his workout was pedestrian. I would like you to take a gander at Gagne's September, I think you will come out of that surprised.
The Rockies and Gagne's old Dodgers watched him throw 2 days ago, with the Rockies expressing an interest in offering him a deal. Gagne was underrated as a Brewer, but that doesn't mean that he was worth anything close to the $10 million he was paid. The Rockies thought his workout was pedestrian. I would like you to take a gander at Gagne's September, I think you will come out of that surprised.
Should Ahman Green be resigned?
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/15/ahman-green-thinks-hell-be-back-in-green-bay/
I highly doubt that Green will be back. If fact, it would be a major disappointment in my personal opinion of the off season if he was resigned. Ahman Green was a solid guy this year, who I think pushed Grant to be better. But the Packers need to get a better return man and a better receiver out of the backfield, and an easy way to kill those two birds with one stone would be to draft or sign a Leon Washington/Dexter McCluster type who can return and serve as a receiver out of the backfield.
I highly doubt that Green will be back. If fact, it would be a major disappointment in my personal opinion of the off season if he was resigned. Ahman Green was a solid guy this year, who I think pushed Grant to be better. But the Packers need to get a better return man and a better receiver out of the backfield, and an easy way to kill those two birds with one stone would be to draft or sign a Leon Washington/Dexter McCluster type who can return and serve as a receiver out of the backfield.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Brewers without options
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/02/out-of-options-2010.html
The two Brewers that stick out like sour thumbs are Manny Parra and Chris Narveson. Both, especially Parra, are guys with major league success, but that could use some grooming. Parra has been sent down each of the last two years, and will have to iron out his struggles in Milwaukee or for another organization. Almost no way he gets through waivers. There is a chance that Narveson could make it as he could be viewed as AAAA fodder due to his suspect stuff.
The two Brewers that stick out like sour thumbs are Manny Parra and Chris Narveson. Both, especially Parra, are guys with major league success, but that could use some grooming. Parra has been sent down each of the last two years, and will have to iron out his struggles in Milwaukee or for another organization. Almost no way he gets through waivers. There is a chance that Narveson could make it as he could be viewed as AAAA fodder due to his suspect stuff.
Chad Ford's Bucks Report
Chad Ford: Bucks Interested In SG, Murphy/Jamison/Thomas
Milwaukee Bucks
Assets: Ersan Ilyasova; potential lottery pick; expiring contracts of Luke Ridnour, Joe Alexander and Kurt Thomas
Just months ago, the Bucks appeared to be conducting a fire sale. But now, to the surprise of other teams, Bucks GM John Hammond has been out aggressively looking to move expiring contracts to get back a power forward or a dynamic 2-guard to play alongside Andrew Bogut and Brandon Jennings.
The Bucks have reportedly talked to both the Wizards about Antawn Jamison and the Pacers about Troy Murphy and shown interest in the Bulls' Tyrus Thomas.
Milwaukee will have to be patient, because other teams might have better offers to make to Washington, Indiana and Chicago. But if the Bucks are willing to throw their first-round pick into a deal, they might be able to trump other teams. As the deadline approaches, don't be surprised to see Milwaukee scoop up someone.
I would stay far away from Jamison, way too long of a contract. I have posted on my huge support for a Murphy. Tyrus would be intriguing, but I'm not sure that Scott Skiles would be okay with that. I wonder who the Shooting Guard might be? I haven't heard anything about a)the Bucks being interested in a SG or b) who might be available. I would be all for that, as SG truly has been the downfall of this team this year.
Milwaukee Bucks
Assets: Ersan Ilyasova; potential lottery pick; expiring contracts of Luke Ridnour, Joe Alexander and Kurt Thomas
Just months ago, the Bucks appeared to be conducting a fire sale. But now, to the surprise of other teams, Bucks GM John Hammond has been out aggressively looking to move expiring contracts to get back a power forward or a dynamic 2-guard to play alongside Andrew Bogut and Brandon Jennings.
The Bucks have reportedly talked to both the Wizards about Antawn Jamison and the Pacers about Troy Murphy and shown interest in the Bulls' Tyrus Thomas.
Milwaukee will have to be patient, because other teams might have better offers to make to Washington, Indiana and Chicago. But if the Bucks are willing to throw their first-round pick into a deal, they might be able to trump other teams. As the deadline approaches, don't be surprised to see Milwaukee scoop up someone.
I would stay far away from Jamison, way too long of a contract. I have posted on my huge support for a Murphy. Tyrus would be intriguing, but I'm not sure that Scott Skiles would be okay with that. I wonder who the Shooting Guard might be? I haven't heard anything about a)the Bucks being interested in a SG or b) who might be available. I would be all for that, as SG truly has been the downfall of this team this year.
Baseball Prospectus gives us their top 15 Brewer Prospects
http://www.baseballprospectus.com/article.php?articleid=10035
Five-Star Prospects
1. Alcides Escobar, SS
Four-Star Prospects
2. Brett Lawrie, 2B
Three-Star Prospects
3. Mat Gamel, 3B
4. Wily Peralta, RHP
5. Cody Scarpetta, RHP
6. Jon Lucroy, C
7. Eric Arnett, RHP
8. Kyle Heckathorn, RHP
9. Kentrail Davis, OF
10. Angel Salome, C
Two-Star Prospects
11. Logan Schafer, OF
Four More:
12. Mark Rogers, RHP: Rogers’ stuff was outstanding after missing two years due to shoulder problems, but can he pitch more than three innings every five days?
13. Caleb Gindl, OF: He’s a small outfielder and very low on tools, but his production at the plate has been impressive.
14. Jake Odorizzi, RHP: He has advanced command and control for his age, but Odorizzi’s stuff has yet to take the expected step forward.
15. Zach Braddock, LHP: This power lefty took a big step forward with a move to bullpen; he has the ceiling of a set-up man.
Big shocker that Escobar is a 5 star. For more analysis, visit:
http://i94sports.com/articles/milwaukee-brewers/baseball-prospectus-ranks-the-brewers.html
Five-Star Prospects
1. Alcides Escobar, SS
Four-Star Prospects
2. Brett Lawrie, 2B
Three-Star Prospects
3. Mat Gamel, 3B
4. Wily Peralta, RHP
5. Cody Scarpetta, RHP
6. Jon Lucroy, C
7. Eric Arnett, RHP
8. Kyle Heckathorn, RHP
9. Kentrail Davis, OF
10. Angel Salome, C
Two-Star Prospects
11. Logan Schafer, OF
Four More:
12. Mark Rogers, RHP: Rogers’ stuff was outstanding after missing two years due to shoulder problems, but can he pitch more than three innings every five days?
13. Caleb Gindl, OF: He’s a small outfielder and very low on tools, but his production at the plate has been impressive.
14. Jake Odorizzi, RHP: He has advanced command and control for his age, but Odorizzi’s stuff has yet to take the expected step forward.
15. Zach Braddock, LHP: This power lefty took a big step forward with a move to bullpen; he has the ceiling of a set-up man.
Big shocker that Escobar is a 5 star. For more analysis, visit:
http://i94sports.com/articles/milwaukee-brewers/baseball-prospectus-ranks-the-brewers.html
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Racine Native Butler joins the Mavericks
http://my.journaltimes.com/post/woelfel-world-of-sports/caron_butler_excited_to_join_title_contender.html
Good for him, honestly. He's a good, not great, player, and should help the Mavericks become a better team than they would have been with Josh Howard. Brenden Haywood might be the better part of this deal though. Nice guy who is willing to do the dirty work, who should benefit with having a real point guard for a change. The Wizards didn't get much at all, I feel like they could have gotten significantly more even if they managed to get rid of that bum DeShawn Stevenson, perhaps they are simply getting rid of anyone they can. But more importantly, the first domino fell relatively early. Should the Bucks inquire about Jamison even though his contract is a complete albatross.
Good for him, honestly. He's a good, not great, player, and should help the Mavericks become a better team than they would have been with Josh Howard. Brenden Haywood might be the better part of this deal though. Nice guy who is willing to do the dirty work, who should benefit with having a real point guard for a change. The Wizards didn't get much at all, I feel like they could have gotten significantly more even if they managed to get rid of that bum DeShawn Stevenson, perhaps they are simply getting rid of anyone they can. But more importantly, the first domino fell relatively early. Should the Bucks inquire about Jamison even though his contract is a complete albatross.
Cromwell gets the job
http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/02/10/rams-hire-nolan-cromwell-as-receivers-coach/
Makes sense, long-time St. Louis, I mean Los Angeles, no I mean St. Louis, no Los Angeles Ram, coming back to his old franchise. Interesting that a former S would become the WR coach. Perhaps he would be able to provide some insight from a defensive perspective? I like it. Sounds innovative to say the least. I will say that the Rams need help, and a ton of it. Perhaps he will be mentoring former UW-Whitewater WR Derek Stanley
Makes sense, long-time St. Louis, I mean Los Angeles, no I mean St. Louis, no Los Angeles Ram, coming back to his old franchise. Interesting that a former S would become the WR coach. Perhaps he would be able to provide some insight from a defensive perspective? I like it. Sounds innovative to say the least. I will say that the Rams need help, and a ton of it. Perhaps he will be mentoring former UW-Whitewater WR Derek Stanley
McClung gets a raise, sort of
http://twitter.com/JoeFrisaro/statuses/8942983242
Seth McClung made $200,000 more recently all because of a simple typo or misinformation or a cyber-world collapse. Either way, its no chump change. Way to go. That's what I call a bank error in your favor.
Seth McClung made $200,000 more recently all because of a simple typo or misinformation or a cyber-world collapse. Either way, its no chump change. Way to go. That's what I call a bank error in your favor.
Hart's hearing the first in 12 years
http://milwaukee.brewers.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100210&content_id=8051518&vkey=news_mil&fext=.jsp&c_id=mil
Doug Melvin had never gone to arbitration before losing to Corey Hart this past Thursday. Perhaps this caused him to lose? Hart has supposedly lost 22 pounds on a really tough workout plan. Me, I'd rather him take 22 more walks this season.
Doug Melvin had never gone to arbitration before losing to Corey Hart this past Thursday. Perhaps this caused him to lose? Hart has supposedly lost 22 pounds on a really tough workout plan. Me, I'd rather him take 22 more walks this season.
Mets have not contacted Sheffield
http://www.nypost.com/p/sports/mets/with_things_mets_table_in_shape_nn8YkxMlL0ABuVCVO4yjXM
Gary Sheffield is a scum, a cheater, and just a pain. I am glad that he is, hopefully and finally, out of baseball. It was painful to see him hit his 500th home run against the Brewers, just painful. Still throwing balls into the stands Gary?
Gary Sheffield is a scum, a cheater, and just a pain. I am glad that he is, hopefully and finally, out of baseball. It was painful to see him hit his 500th home run against the Brewers, just painful. Still throwing balls into the stands Gary?
Washburn looking for right situation
http://mlb.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20100210&content_id=8050044
Jarrod Washburn was very good last year, and I think he can be solid in 2010. No one will sign the Wisconsin native. Should the Brewers throw him a bone? I tihnk so. I think that he would take $3 million from the Brewers to pitch, and would be a nice upgrade to the current rotation. This is why the "extra, wasted" money on guys like Jody Gerut and stuff like that are key. The Brewers should be able to afford Washburn, and I for one would like to see them do it. Remember, he pitched in the American League last year.
Jarrod Washburn was very good last year, and I think he can be solid in 2010. No one will sign the Wisconsin native. Should the Brewers throw him a bone? I tihnk so. I think that he would take $3 million from the Brewers to pitch, and would be a nice upgrade to the current rotation. This is why the "extra, wasted" money on guys like Jody Gerut and stuff like that are key. The Brewers should be able to afford Washburn, and I for one would like to see them do it. Remember, he pitched in the American League last year.
Just when you didn't think he could get any better, Jack Z finds Jesus
http://www.mlbtraderumors.com/2010/02/mariners-sign-jesus-colome.html
Ok, so its just Jesus Colome. Still, a nice, no-risk pickup for the Mariners. Although I don't like their off season moves as much as most people, or more accurately don't think they are as good as most people think they are, they will still be contenders in the AL West.
Ok, so its just Jesus Colome. Still, a nice, no-risk pickup for the Mariners. Although I don't like their off season moves as much as most people, or more accurately don't think they are as good as most people think they are, they will still be contenders in the AL West.
Expiring for Troy Murphy?
http://www.cleveland.com/cavs/index.ssf/2010/02/jj_hicksons_role_in_deadline_t.html
Where do I sign? I have liked Troy Murphy for as long as I can remember, and he was on the original all-underrated team. This is a great deal for the Bucks if true. Salary expires before 2011, great fit next to Bogut, efficient and can stretch the floor, plays hard, and Indiana is in dire financial straights. I would be hesitant to give up Ridnour though. This trade works in the checker, absolutely marvelous if you have a free couple of hours to just play around with.
Troy Murphy and Travis Diener to Milwaukee
Joe Alexander, Kurt Thomas, Francisco Elson, and Hakim Warrick to Indiana.
All expirings to the Pacers. Local boy comes back home. Only problem is the backup C spot, which has been weak enough anyway. But Bogut has been playing more, so say he gets 36 minutes, Murphy can play C in a small lineup, and Gadzuric can spazz through a few minutes here and there too.
Where do I sign? I have liked Troy Murphy for as long as I can remember, and he was on the original all-underrated team. This is a great deal for the Bucks if true. Salary expires before 2011, great fit next to Bogut, efficient and can stretch the floor, plays hard, and Indiana is in dire financial straights. I would be hesitant to give up Ridnour though. This trade works in the checker, absolutely marvelous if you have a free couple of hours to just play around with.
Troy Murphy and Travis Diener to Milwaukee
Joe Alexander, Kurt Thomas, Francisco Elson, and Hakim Warrick to Indiana.
All expirings to the Pacers. Local boy comes back home. Only problem is the backup C spot, which has been weak enough anyway. But Bogut has been playing more, so say he gets 36 minutes, Murphy can play C in a small lineup, and Gadzuric can spazz through a few minutes here and there too.
Bucks dangling expiring contracts?
Apparently the Bucks are trying to get a team to bite on one or more of their expiring contracts. If the Bucks are financially stable, which the cavernous Bradley Center screams to me NO!, then perhaps they could take off a high-salaried player from another team that wants to avoid the luxury tax, yet expires before the 2011 off season like so many of the other players on the Bucks roster. I would be hesitant to trade Ridnour who has been so valuable off the bench this season, but the other 2, especially Alexander, are easily replicable.
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