All World All Sports Blog

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Baseball Power Rankings Movers & Shakers

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-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for another wild ride to baseball's finish line. Pennant battles catching fire in the heat of summer. Only 2.5 games separate New York, Boston & Tampa. Detroit and Cleveland keep shuffling 1-2 in AL Central. Brewers beginning to create breathing room in NL Central. Every division is up for grabs and nearly half of the league is within wild card contention.

All World All Sports MLB Power Rankings (Top 10)
1 - Philadelphia
2 - Yankees
3 - Boston
4 - San Francisco
5 - Milwaukee
6 - Atlanta
7 - Tampa Bay
8 - Detroit
9 - Texas
10- (tie) Arizona, Cleveland

Saturday, June 25, 2011

MLB 2011 - Award Races Heating Up

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-Digger's Daily-

2011 MLB season is closing in on the halfway point. A handful of players are making their case for MVP, Cy Young, Rookie & Manager of the Year awards. Time to list the front-runners as viewed by All World All Sports. (A complete list of past award winners can be found here)

MVP
AL
Adrian Gonzalez (Bos)
Jose Bautista (Tor)
Paul Konerko (Chi)
Curtis Granderson (NY)
NL
Lance Berkman (StL)
Prince Fielder (Mil)
Matt Kemp (LA)
Ryan Braun (Mil)
Jose Reyes (NY)

Cy Young
AL
Jared Weaver (LA)
Justin Verlander (Det)
Josh Beckett (Bos)
James Shields (TB)
Michael Pineda (Sea)
NL
Roy Halladay (Phi)
Jar Jurrjens (Atl)
Ian Kennedy (Az)
Cole Hamels (Phi)
Clayton Kershaw (LA)

Rookie
AL
Eric Hosner (KC)
Mark Trumbo (LA)
Michael Pineda (Sea)
Jordan Walden (LA)
Vinnie Pestano (Cle)
Al Alburquerque (Det)
NL
Danny Espinosa (Was)
Dillon Gee (NY)
Craig Kimbrel (Atl)
Freddie Freeman (Atl)
Darwin Barney (Chi)
Brandon Beachy (Atl)

Manager
AL
Terry Francona (Bos)
Manny Acta (Cle)
Buck Showalter (Bal)
Jim Leyland (Det)
NL
Kirk Gibson (Az)
Fredi Gonzalez (Atl)
Charlie Manuel (Phi)
Bruce Bochy (SF)

Friday, June 24, 2011

Hey Mets, It's Time to Retire #8!

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-Digger's Daily-

The troubled New York Mets franchise can give themselves a boost by honoring one of their World Series Champion fan heroes. All Star catcher Gary Carter deserves his uniform #8 to be retired and put on display at CitiField.

New York displays just one retired player jersey, #41, Tom Seaver (managers Casey Stengel & Gil Hodges also retired). Can you believe it Mets fans? Ownership retiring only one uniform. No statues of former team members anywhere to be found at CitiField. It took a public outcry before management entertained the notion of placing "Mets" memorabilia in their new billion dollar ballpark (you can find Dodgers gracing the main entrance).

Guess what fans? Once again it's time to turn up the volume. A public outcry is necessary to nudge tumultuous team owners into paying respects for one of the Mets most popular members who was a major contributor of the 1986 World Championship squad. Gary Carter is a class act. Unfortunately, Carter's been recently diagnosed with multiple brain tumors. How about team ownership and fans showing respect to Carter when he's still alive. A "Gary Carter Day" should be arranged pronto!

Carter represents everything good in baseball and life. His energetic style of play rubbed off on teammates. He came to play hard everyday even when battling nagging bruises and injuries. Never a public spat with players, coaches or fans. Never a hint of infidelity, drugs, steroids, DUI or tirades against fans. He's been elected into the Baseball Hall of Fame. So why no retired jersey Mr. Wilpon?

Wilpon is a Brooklyn Dodgers fan, NOT a Mets fan. Why did he bother buying the Mets? The Dodgers are gone and with a little luck so will Wilpon and Katz. They're an embarrassment to a proud franchise. Honor your team. Honor your fans. Can't fill the stands in 2011? Here's a sure fire way to fill seats with butts.... A fan appreciation Gary Carter Day Washington (formerly Carter's Montreal Expos) come to CitiField on Monday September 12th. Perfect team to host this day against. Invite as many former teammates from Montreal and New York as possible. The stadium will be packed. Ownership can look at this from a greed standpoint if it's all left driving them to remain team owners. They'll finally host a sellout! If time is of the essence regarding Gary's health then get it done sooner.

Carter deserves this honor. Not out of pity. Not one bit. Solely from his contributions to Mets baseball. Mets ownership has done very little to honor former players. Nearly every new park has statues of famous past players/managers. How about something for Casey, Seaver, Hodges, Carter, Keith Hernandez, Tug McGraw, Koos, Matlack, Piazza, Franco, Davy Johnson and the list goes on.

Here and now, it's time to do the right thing for at least one living legend. Retire Gary Carter's #8!

Monday, June 20, 2011

NFL Investigating Players Casino Investments

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-Digger's Daily-

Investigative journalism often missing from mainstream political news organizations can be found throughout sports. Sports reporters rarely let moments go unnoticed. Case in point, Yahoo!Sports just released a report claiming the NFL is looking into personal investments by players (active and retired) into a failed casino venture.

NFL rules bar employees from involvement with any gaming operation. Several current and former NFL players have invested with Country Crossing casino striking a sensitive nerve for the league which is currently facing plenty of challenges stemming from a labor dispute, HGH testing, player turmoils, and now... gambling.

Yahoo reports:

"Country Crossing and another Alabama casino are at the center of a probe that resulted in nine people going to trial accused of buying and selling votes on pro-gambling legislation, including four former or current state senators."

A few of the bigger names listed as investors include Terell Owens, Santonio Holmes, Gerard Warren, Adalius Thomas, Jevon Kearse, Antonio Griffin as well as boxer Floyd Mayweather. $20 million investment by professional athletes in casino operations is a big red flag. Betting by athletes is the biggest sin in sports. Gambling is often treated harsher than cheating, drugs, guns, booze, steroids etc. Too many potential implications from associating with gamblers presents clear and present dangers to illegitimate activities. It should be noted, no player is accused of betting on or throwing games. However, their involvement is against league rules and subject to disciplinary action ranging from fines to possible suspensions.

Country Crossing owner Ron Gilley and two lobbyists have pleaded guilty to offering millions of dollars in bribes to legislators in attempts to buy votes on pro gambling legislation. Heads will roll.

Strange how Yahoo went national with this story whole no other news organizations have stepped up. USA is in the early throws of political re-election campaigns and nary a word from the likes of The New York Times, Washington Post, Los Angles Times, ABC, NBC, CBS & CNN. Curious isn't it?

Sports has a long list of gambling probes. Most famous incidents include 1919 Chicago White Sox throwing the World Series, Pete Rose, CCNY point shaving, NBA Referees, NHL coaches and a slew of others. How this one shakes out is anyone's guess. You can safely bet the accused politicians will stop at nothing to cover up any chatter of bribes.

How does a professional athlete come to think investing in a casino is shrewd when multiple leagues ban such a practice? Lawyers, agents, accountants and all other financial advisers should have alerted players their involvement would become a clear contradiction of league practices.

It will be interesting to see how the NFL Commissioners office handles this investigation and how far they're willing to penalize active players beyond slap on the wrist fines.

To be continued as this story unfolds.....

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Baseball Power Rankings Movers & Shakers

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-Digger's Daily-

It's been a week of hot and cold streaks. Boston and Philadelphia are red hot. Detroit knocked Cleveland out of first in AL Central. Texas got thumped in the Bronx. Pittsburgh (35-33) is in unfamiliar territory... a winning record in June! Get set for a furious summer of teams jockeying up and down division ladders. Who will prevail? Time will tell.

All World All Sports Baseball Power Rankings
(Top 10)
1 - Philadelphia
2 - Boston
3 - San Francisco
4 - New York
5 - Detroit
6 - Milwaukee
7 - Atlanta
8 - St. Louis
9 - Tampa Bay
10- Texas

Monday, June 13, 2011

Calling All Cars: MLB Warns Teams of Chicago Violence

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-Digger's Daily-

Chicago fans beware. MLB is putting teams on notice to take all necessary precautions for ensuring safety around their facilities. Violence in downtown Chicago has spiraled out of control. Mob style attacks has an entire city on edge. Baseball players and fans beware.

Youth mobs are creating random acts of violence. It's spreading to major cities around the USA. Where's our President calling for calm? Especially in his adopted home city of Chicago which elected him Senator on the way to winning the Presidency. Instead, we hear Obama praise youth uprisings in the Middle East as our those keeping enforcing peace get run out by power by mob style protests (while chanting "death to Israel, death to America"). So is it any wonder American youth mobs are now on the attack? No.

Political hack Mayor Rahm Emanuel is attempting to beef up police patrols citywide. Emanuel and Chicago Police Superintendent Garry McCarthy said over the weekend another 150 cops are now on the street. However, Fraternal Order of Police spokesman Pat Camden said this is misleading. "Well, yeah, he's putting 150 people on the street. He hasn't added anything to the manpower of the police department which has been, you know, really terribly neglected for the past three years. The hiring has been abysmal at best," Camden said.

According to reports, upwards of 30 people have been arrested recently in connection to Chicago's spiraling violence problem. Fans need to be vigilant when traveling to and from Chicago area stadiums. Especially when traveling on public transportation, walking to and from cars. Avoid traveling alone if possible and keep your cell phone handy at all times.

Youth violence is spreading rapidly. It's happening everywhere from California to New York. Mostly teens causing disruptions. Beach goers were recently attacked in New York & Miami. It's unfathomable to this writer how dumb young punks are willing to throw away their entire lives for a chance to crack skulls.

Teachers, parents, religious and civic leaders need to start doing their jobs educating kids on the pitfalls of violence. Teach morality. Urge them to do good in their communities instead of preying on neighbors. It's summer time. School season is winding down. What will come of unemployed kids this summer with nowhere to go and nothing to do?

Fans need take warning. Be prepared. City officials need to tackle this rising problem head on. If the President can't get control over his own city....?

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Flameout: LeBron James Playoff Failures Continue

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-Digger's Daily-

Add LeBron James to the long list of super playoff failures. LeBron's past playoff ineptness as Cleveland's star earned plenty of criticism especially after appearing to give up during last seasons Conference Finals vs Boston. James performance in this years NBA Finals has been nothing short of a disastrous choke. After five games, James has totaled 11 fourth quarter points. Hardly "King"-like.

James name is now grouped with other playoff underachievers. Barry Bonds, Alex Rodriguez, Chris Webber, Peyton Manning & Jim Kelly all shined during regular season action only to flameout in the spotlight of playoff games. James took plenty of heat from Cleveland fans and sportscasters after quitting during close games vs Boston. Harsh criticism? Not at all.

I wonder if Scotty Pippen still believes King LeBron "is the greatest all round player of all time." Pippen's jealousy of Jordan continues. Did Scotty ever win a NBA Championship without MJ? No. How many times did MJ carry the Bulls to title glory? 6. Not only couldn't Pippen deliver without Jordan... he also quit on the Bulls vs Knicks when his number wasn't called to attempt the games final game winning shot. Scotty pouted. Pippen was a great player. But, he never won without Jordan. Hearing Pippen call James the greatest ever is more of a shot at Jordan than praise for James whose playoff 4th quarter disappearing acts are well documented.

No doubt James is one of the best during regular season action. He's played great playoff basketball in early rounds. The greatest of the great all have one thing in common. Winners always want the ball when games are on the line. Not LeBron. One might think furious criticism of James post-season play would become inspiration. He's a laughingstock in Dallas. Maverick's fans are loving new "knock-knock" jokes.

Knock Knock
"Who's there?"
LeBron
"LeBron who?"
EXACTLY

Miami Heat trails Dallas 3 games to 2 in the NBA Finals. Series shifts back to Miami. James has a chance to quiet detractors if he puts together at least an effort in 4th quarter action. What will it be? Can James get over 4th quarter fears? Or, will he go down as one of the most overpaid chokers in sports history?

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Bob Geren First Manager Axed in 2011

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-Digger's Daily-

Bob Geren is out as manager of the Oakland Athletics. Oakland's current 9 game losing streak places them last in the American League West after trailing by a mere 1.5 games back on May 29. Geren's firing marks the first time in nearly 25 years Oakland replaced a manager mid-season.

Geren had his hands full juggling an oft injured roster over the past few years. Oakland expected to compete in 2011 after signing a few veteran bats to bolster team offense in support of a strong starting rotation. Veteran DH Hideki Matsui (.209) is hitting 80+ points below career averages... complete bust. Big things were expected from budding starters Brett Anderson and Dallas Braden but injuries ended their year. Throw in closer Andrew Bailey and 2011 quickly became a recipe for disaster. Infielders, outfielders and replacement pitchers all rotating through the disabled list revolving door.

Geren's departure was meant to inject a spark, wake up call, or whatever catch phrases associated with trying to snap a team out of a prolonged funk. As I type, the struggling White Sox are taking it to the A's 6-3 with 3 innings to go. Looks like a double digit streak is only a few outs away.

In recent years Oakland has been masterful getting the most out of low payroll players. Not an easy task in AL West play without a true power hitter. Pitching, defense and small ball used to lead the way. From 2000-2006 the A's played playoff caliber baseball winning 102 & 103 games in back to back years (2001-02). 91+ wins in 5 of 6 seasons. Under Geren, Oakland hasn't finished with a winning record in 4+ years. Time for a change.

Welcome Bob Melvin. He takes over to finish out the year and audition for 2012. Melvin skippered Arizona to the '07 NLCS and owns a 493-508 career managing record.

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Baseball Power Rankings Movers & Shakers

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-Digger's Daily-

Much attention remains focused on Cleveland, New York, Boston and Tampa Bay. Guess which team now has baseball's best record? St. Louis Cardinals. Albert Pujols appears to have shaken off an early season slump. Lance Berkman keeps crushing baseballs. Cards bullpen now getting the job done. Is St. Louis baseball's best? Probably not. However, they're playing great ball at the moment.

All Star Game is one month away. Fans stuffing ballot boxes hoping their favorite players garner enough votes to play in Arizona's mid-summer classic. A few ASG regulars still trying to shake off big time struggles. Hit machine Ichiro Suzuki season long slump continues (.260). Yanks Jorge Posada's (.195) batting average is slowly improving but I fear his days as a starting DH are soon to end. Derek Jeter's closing in on 3,000 career hits. Believe it or not New York has never had any player collect 3,000 hits!

Who is #1 in this week's installment of All World All Sports Power Rankings? Time to find out....

Top 10
1 - Philadelphia Phillies
2 - Boston Red Sox
3 - Cleveland Indians
4 - New York Yankees
5 - St. Louis Cardinals
6 - Detroit Tigers
7 - Milwaukee Brewers
8 - San Francisco Giants
9 - Texas Rangers
10 - Atlanta Braves

Bottom 5
30- Houston Astros
29- Chicago Cubs
28- Minnesota Twins
27- Kansas City Royals
26- Oakland A's

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Diamond Men Select Most Overrated Major Leaguers

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-Digger-

Sports Illustrated recently polled 185 Major League Baseball players asking a simple question. Who is the most overrated player in baseball? Results were released back in May. A few names will surprise, most will not.

Let's break down the TOP 10 results with a little commentary.

MLB's Overrated Team
1 - ALEX RODRIGUEZ Alex is #1 overrated. Tough choice picking a clear cut #1. Hard to argue against this one. Former steroid user who once claimed his cousin supplied PED's is once again under MLB scrutiny for possible abuses. "The Steroid Mule", cousin Yuri, has been spotted in Yankees team hotels recently despite being banned from any team related facility. Get ready for a new scandal. Putting this aside, and his legendary stats, it's obvious to Yankees fans ARod's lack of clutch hitting in key moments of games throughout a lengthy career clearly earns this guy top honors.

"I have been on that list many, many times, it will be the same next summer," said Rodriguez.

2 - JOBA CHAMBERLAIN Joba began his career in grand style giving up just 1 run in 24 innings while striking out 34 back in 2007. It hasn't necessarily been all downhill since as Joba's settles in a set up man for Rivera. #2 ranking is way out of whack here. Perhaps it's just a general anti-Yankee venom kicking in or perhaps it's the fact Chamberlain's antics haven't won over many friends on opposing teams? It's a safe bet to conclude both. Joba doesn't crack my top 10.

Chamberlain joked to ESPN.com that, "I guess I'm disappointed that I'm not number one again," after being voted No. 1 last season. "I don't care . . . My bills are still paid and I still have a job. You can call me whatever you want, just don't call me late for dinner. Everybody is entitled to their opinion. That's why this country is so great."

3 - DEREK JETER Third most overrated player? Really? Jeter did begin the year struggling after a lengthy and public contract battle during off-season. The Yankees captain has forever been attacked. First time I can recall fellow players dissing his play. No doubt Jeter's career is winding down. But, overrated? He's still a top 5 all around AL shortstop even with diminishing stats and big season ending slump last year. The deeper I get into these rankings the more I begin to believe they're based solely on salaries. This should be an "overpaid" top 10, not overrated! Jeter is quickly closing in on 3,000 career hits. He'll become the only Yankee in their storied history to amass 3,000 hits!

"It’s the same thing they do every year, right?" Jeter asked. DJ, SI’s 2009 Man of the Year said, "I’m focused on more positive things. How about that? There’s your quote." (northjersey.com)

4 - JAYSON WERTH Werth is quickly remembering hitting outside of Philadelphia's tiny home park is hard. Especially in Washington. A stellar defensive RF, clutch hitter (13 HR, 24 XBH in 44 career playoff games) and very frustrated in 1st season as a National. Led NL in doubles last season (46) and big clutch performer voted onto this list based on last season? Or, strictly because of a big salary (signed 7 years/$126M)? Overrated, give me a break. 2011 is especially tough with zero lineup protection in Washington and lack of runners on base. No way close to a top 10 overrated player.

5 - JONATHAN PAPELBON Finally, a player in the top 10 I agree belongs. Papelbon was one of the games best closers only 2 short years ago. However, he no longer dominates. It's a guessing game whenever he takes the hill. Confidence shaken? Time will tell.

6 - NICK SWISHER Agreed. Swisher quickly became a fan favorite in New York. It's been a mixed bag for Nick in NY. Batted only .226 at home in first Yankee season when baseball's were flying out of their new Stadium. He played great last year so one wonders how he got here... until watching his play in 2011 (or lack thereof). Struggling big time in 2011. Nobody should be surprised if Swisher's average never rises above .230 this season.

7 - B.J. UPTON Here's a guy who could easily rank higher... perhaps #2? A projected 5 tool player has all the skills but lacks focus and consistency. Mostly low year to year batting averages, often spaces out in CF and lack of clutch performances earns B.J. a top 10 nod.

8 - DAVID ORTIZ Another former PED junkie cracks the top 10. How does a .313, 13 HR slugger make this list? Probably from back to back slow starts to 2009-10 seasons. He's no top 10. His second half performance of '10 should have wiped the slate clean. Obviously it didn't. Even Ortiz strikeout totals are way down in 2011. Perhaps some of these anonymous voters reside in the Tri-State area?

9 - A.J. BURNETT A.J. possesses great pitches from fastball to slider but command issues kept popping up until recently. Undoubtedly a top 5 in 2010. Coming on strong in '11.

10 - MANNY RAMIREZ Here's my NUMBER ONE overrated player. #2 isn't even close. Manny wore out his welcome in Boston. Connected numerous times to steroids/PED including back in April when he voluntarily retired instead of facing MLB disciplinary action for getting caught AGAIN! Injuries and suspensions highlighted his last few seasons. Tampa Bay gambled during the off-season and signed Manny as full time DH only to get burned by a player who NEVER respected the game, teammates, managers, fans and employers. A poster child for everything wrong with baseball. Good riddance!

Sports Illustrated photo gallery shows off 16 overrated players. You've read their top 10. The following are a couple of shockers....
13 - EVAN LONGORIA How in the world did Longoria make this list? Overrated? Not even overpaid! Great defense, big time offense, young player on the rise, plays with poise and produces in the clutch. What more can you want? Very surprising selection.

16 - ALBERT PUJOLS Ok, this poll lost all credibility when reading Pujols name. I defy anybody claim there's been a more consistent player over the past 11 years than Albert Pujols (career statistics). In 10 full seasons, 100 or more runs scored 9 times and scored 99 in only year below 100. Knocked in well over 100 runs every single season. Never batted below .312, plays solid defense, hits in the clutch, a team player. These are Lou Gehrig type numbers and to think anyone with any sort of baseball knowledge considers Pujols an overrated player speaks volumes to Sports Illustrated anonymous poll's credibility.

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

NBA & NHL Championship Predictions

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-Digger-

2010-11 basketball and hockey displayed jaw dropping highlights all year long. From pre-season NBA signing antics of LeBron James to Dirk's unbelievable Western Conference Championship performance leading the Mavs into the Finals. Miami's big 3 vs Dallas balanced attack promises to thrill viewers from minute to minute.

NHL ice action kept fans on the edge of their seats throughout playoff action. The Stanley Cup Finals displays two of the games gutsiest teams. Vancouver vs Boston will showcase hockey at its' very best.
So who will be crowned 2010-11 Champs?

NBA
Miami Heat vs Dallas Mavericks. Fans from both cities firmly believe their team is best. Miami has James, Wade and Bosh. Dallas has the deepest squad in the game led by Nowitzki and veteran PG Jason Kidd.
Miami's defense must be Johnny on the spot if the Heat expect to win it all. Dallas brings an excellent ball movement offense and aren't too shabby in the fast break category either.
For Dallas, eliminating unnecessary turnovers is a must or Miami will turn them all into fast break opportunities.
Defensive match-ups for both teams are challenging.
Dallas in 6!

NHL
Vancouver Canucks vs Boston Bruins
This will either be a very close series minute by minute or a Vancouver route. Boston defense and goal tending is tops. Vancouver's high flying offense will put them to the test. Bruins power play has been non-existent but they've overcome offensive deficiencies by playing stellar defense.
Two teams couldn't be more opposites than Boston and Vancouver. Here they are, going for it all.
I've been a big Bruins fan since the days of Esposito, Orr, Cheevers. Followed them intensely during the brutal 70's with O'Reilly, Milbury & Co. Then came the Ray Bourque era. Those days are long gone. Now's the time for the new look Bruins to plant a flag on their place in NHL history.
Bruins get it done in 7!

Monday, May 30, 2011

MLB: Memorial Day Power Rankings

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-Digger-

2011 has been a strange season. Baseball injury bugs are swarming. Players beware. Injuries are contagious. Multiple players have made visits to disabled lists around the league for oblique strains. Next up catchers. Buster Posey was lost for the year in a jarring home plate collision. Guess what happened next? Another trend. Catchers being lost by ankle and knee injuries due to collisions. Fantasy managers have their work cut out for themselves like never before. Injuries creating roster emergencies. It's been reported more than a few skippers absorbing up to 12 injuries at once decimating rosters leaving them to scramble for replacements.

Cleveland continues to dazzle. Phillies almost back at full strength. Mets announce a new minority owner. Yankees sliding. Red Sox surging. Time for power rankings (through games of 8/30/11):

1 - Philadelphia (34-20)
2 - Cleveland (31-19)
3 - St, Louis (32-22)
4 - Florida (30-21)
5 - Boston (30-23)
6 - Yankees (28-23)
7 - Arizona (29-24)
8 - Atlanta (30-25)
9 - Milwaukee (29-34)
10- Tampa Bay (28-24)

Happy Memorial Day Americans!

Monday, May 23, 2011

Wilpon Rips Mets Stars!

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-Digger-

Popular consensus amongst prognosticators all agreed 2011 spelled doom and gloom for New York Mets chances of winning the NL East. A franchise in turmoil from team owners being sued for $1 billion to star players injured to begin the year (Santana, Beltran, Bay). As predicted, the Mets struggled to a 5-13 record through their first 18 games. Injuries keep popping up (Wright, Davis) but replacements have played very well. Bay and Beltran are back and contributing. New York's won 17 of 28 behind re-energized play and solid pitching performances.

Feeling good was not meant to least. Mets owner Fred Wilpon ripped New York's big three. Wilpon unleashed on Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran and David Wright. New York talk radio lines were buzzing all morning tearing into the Mets new public enemy number one. Wilpon lashed out at the Mets calling his team "sh*tty" and much more in a New Yorker article.

On Jose Reyes, Wilpon chirped:

"He thinks he's going to get Carl Crawford money," Wilpon says, referring to Crawford's seven-year, $142 million contract with the Boston Red Sox. "He's had everything wrong with him. He won't get it."

Regarding signing Carlos Beltran:

"We had some schmuck in New York who paid him based on that one series. He's 65 to 70 percent of what he was." A second shot at Beltran (which many fans may agree with was) referenced a bases loaded called third strike to end the 2006 NLCS.

All Star 3B David Wright:

"Really good kid. A very good player. Not a superstar."

Timing couldn't be worse for Mets players when things seemed to finally be getting better. How should players react to this outburst? You can bet they're pretty ticked off at the moment. A media circus will soon take off looking for comments from singled out stars. Don't be surprised if Reyes is the first demanding a trade. Jose's in a contract year (free agent in waiting after this season ends). Reyes is enjoying an All Star caliber season and many major league clubs are rumored to be in hot pursuit via trade. I'm hoping Reyes stays in the National League. He'll be another in a long history of former players exiting to greener pastures and stardom.

Wilpon's tenure has been nothing short of one disastrous move after another. True die-hard fans remain disgusted with CitiField. Here's a billion dollar tax payer funded park which disrespected the franchise it was intended. CitiField is nothing short of a homage to Jackie Robinson and the Brooklyn Dodgers. Wilpon is a frustrated Brooklyn fan. He wanted a replica Ebbett's Field built. So he built it. Problem is, the New York Mets play in Citi. The main entrance is a shrine to Jackie Robinson's Dodgers. In Citi's inaugural season, there was very little mention of anything Mets beyond souvenir shops. No recognition of 1969 & 1986 World Series Championships. No mention of pennant winning teams. Even outfield wall colors, and theme colors within the ballpark do not reflect Mets orange and blue. Visitors love the park. Mets fans remain disgusted and deeply disrespected.

Wilpon's latest published comments earned scorn from New Yorkers. It's time the Wilpon's and Katz' sell the Mets. This is the team they built. Can't point fingers at GM's, managers, players, etc. The buck stops with the boss. Wilpon's have destroyed a great franchise. Very poor decision making led to trades/signings of busts such as Roberto Alomar, Pedro Martinez, Carlos Beltran, JJ Putz, Luis Catillo, Oliver Perez and a host of others.

Wilpon's are Dodgers fans first, Mets second. Mets players and fans deserve better. Mets are in financial troubles and are looking for minority buyers. The best gift a Mets player and fan can receive would be for current ownership selling out completely, 100%. The current mess is too deep for Wilpon & Co. to rectify. Tough days ahead. Time to turn over the reigns and put the Wilpon years to rest.

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Bronx Tales: Fans Stand with Jorge!

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-Digger-

Jorge Posada's days as a New York Yankee may be concluding sooner than most expected. Jorge, always a fan favorite, will either be traded/released or given the ultimate insult by watching the Yanks acquire a new everyday pinch hitter.

In case your eyes were closed... Manager Girardi demoted Posada to 9th in the batter order a few days ago. An insulted Posada then begged out of the lineup which triggered a media flurry after a mid-game interview with GM Cashman suggested Jorge's pouting. The frenzy continued for a few days. Jorge apologized. Girardi was somewhat non-controversial during interviews. Captain Derek Jeter stood up for his teammate attempting to snuff out negativity before it took hold. (Let us not forget the very public negotiating sessions between Yanks brass and their Captain which left everyone scratching their heads. Jeter too began the year with a dreadful slump.) He did what every good team Captain should do.. stick up for his longtime teammate.

Posada is a Yankees legend. His resume is quite impressive: 17 seasons, 1748 games played, 4 World Series titles, 6 AL Pennants, 5 time All Star, 5 Silver Sluggers, 120 Playoff appearances, 267 HR's, .274 career BA, career .852 OPS.

NY Daily News reported there's been a rift between Girardi and Posada for years especially when it comes to calling games behind the plate. No wonder why Jorge's been relegated to full time DH. This was a slap in the face. A 16 year vet told he can no longer catch, ever. Not a single game. DH only. Like it or leave it. Posada should have been told maybe 2 or 3 games a week behind the plate and DH the rest. His 17th, and potentially final MLB season, has not been good. Posada ranks dead last in batting average. He'll no longer start games vs left handers (0-24). Slowly but surely Girardi is fading out Jorge.

Have Jorge's skills diminished to the point of deserving being forced out of the game? Absolutely not! Every player experiences a dry spell. Fine tuning his batting stance and attitude will go a long way. Perhaps, after the brouhaha, intense focus was found? Time will tell.

Yankees are no strangers to forcing out players. Bernie Williams lack of a contract offer woth plenty of swing left was tragic. Barely a farewell and thank you for being a top clutch performer throughout an illustrious career. Same was done to one of the "most feared hitters" of his generation, Jim Rice. Tom Seaver was left off the 1986 Red Sox post-season roster altogether. LaRussa vs Ozzie Smith was well publicized too.

Jorge has one option. Hit. Posada must get his head (and bat) 100% focused on baseball. If his average doesn't significantly improve before the All Star break then New York will make a move. For now, he's a left handed DH and occasional pinch hitter until things improve. Just in case the love of playing baseball is gone, then hang up your spikes with dignity and grace.

Yankees fans quickly forgave Posada. Number 20 is certain to receive a standing ovation when he steps to the plate at Yankee Stadium. New York fans love heroes. Jorge, now's your chance to go out in a blaze of glory. We'd all love to see your snap out of it and put up big numbers, win games and contribute towards another World Series Championship.

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

MLB Power Rankings, May 16

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Baseball 2011 has featured drama on every front. Cold starts, hot streaks, franchise takeovers, 3 homer games, no hitters, suspensions, sudden retirements, fan beatings, injuries, team infighting and we're only in mid-May.
Philadelphia remains top dog in NL action. Cleveland owns top honors in AL play and owns the overall top record (25-13). Here's All World All Sports current Top 10:

1 - Philadelphia (25-15) Rotation leading the way. Team winning through injuries as champions often do.
2 - Cleveland (25-13) All pieces falling into place. How long will it last?
3 - Tampa Bay (24-17) Baseball's top team after beginning 0-6/1-8.
4 - Florida (23-16) It's been a team effort in baseball's toughest division.
5 - Cincinnati (24-17) Imagine if they had a true ace?
6 - Atlanta (24-19) Beachy on DL might cost a few wins.
7 - San Francisco (22-18) Giants need slugger.
8 - Colorado (21-18) All they need is a 3B able to hit above .240! Or, is it?
9 - St. Louis (23-19) Plenty of issues need addressing. Is shifting Pujols to 3B an answer?
10- Detroit (22-19) When will this team live up to potential?

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

In Case You Missed It...

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NBA Playoffs
Dallas Mavericks regular season play qualifies as one of the NBA's best this century. Playoff basketball has been another story. Early round upsets haunted this franchise in recent years. They're flying high now resting up for the Conference Finals after domination reigning back to back champion Los Angeles Lakers. Mavs players are back in Dallas attempting to remain focused awaiting their next opponent. Will it be vs cinderella Memphis or tough Oklahoma City? Dallas is firing on all cylindars. 2010-11 Mavs squad could possibly represent their deepest in team history. Is this their year? YES!

NHL Playoffs
Boston avenged their playoff disaster from one year ago by sweeping Philadelphia. Next up, Tampa Bay and I'd be very surprised if B's get bounced. They're ready for another Stanley Cup Finals appearance.
A great series is happening in the West. Detroit has rallied from 0-3 down to tie their series vs San Jose. Every game has been sensational. All hotly contested games including rebounding from a one goal deficit in Game 6. They're on a roll and will take the deciding game. However, Red Wings players might be physically and emotionally spent for the Conference Finals against a well rested Vancouver Canucks squad.

MLB
No Hitters - Minnesota's Francisco Liriano (May 3 vs Chicago) and Detroit's Justin Verlander (May 7 vs Toronto) added their names to the no-hitter record books. Verlander dominated Blue Jays hitters allowing only one walk while handcuffing one of baseball's most powerful lineups. Liriano's no-no was the result of effective wildness (6 walks).

Chaulk another stupid (pronounced stuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuuupid) award. Minor leaguer Kevin Frandsen tested positive for performance enhansing drugs. Frandsen was playing for Phillies AAA affiliate hoping for a return to major league action. Forget it. How about a 50 game suspension instead? Anyone caught nowadays should be banned for no less than one full season.

Here's a story which I'm having trouble descerning truths from lies and distortions. One time beloved Mets clubhouse manager Charlie Samuels was indicted in Queens Supreme Court on charges that he criminally possessed nearly $2.3 million worth of game-used memorabilia, embezzled $24,955 from the Mets by submitting inflated expense claims and failing to report or pay taxes on $203,789 in tips and dues that he received from Mets players and others in 2008 and 2009. Found in Samuel's possession are various baseball artifacts from signed jerseys, bats, balls, autographs etc. Precisely what nearly every clubhouse attendant in MLB is sure to own or possess. It will be interesting to see how this all unfolds. How does one determine theft in a case such as this one? Also, there seems to be some sort of backstory involving a fued between embattled Mets owners and Samuels dating back years. Plenty of New York media attention sure to follow. Stay tuned for updates.

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Mavs Sweep Classless, Goonish Lakers

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Dallas Mavericks completely embarrassed, humiliated, out-played and out classed the Los Angeles Lakers. The wheels really fell off during Dallas' clinching 122-86 romp. Lakers players started taking cheap shots (hard fouls) against Mavs players. Andrew Bynum and Lamar Odom lost their cool, if they ever had any, due to goon-like street basketball actions.

Odom's hard body slam blind-sided Dirk Nowitzki with just over 9 minutes remaining earning Lamar an ejection. Bynum soon followed after he lunged elbow first into the ribs of an airborne J.J Barea 40 seconds later. Bynum was quickly tossed. Hard to believe two players on a Phil Jackson coached team lost their cool in the same game, right? True until this series.

Dallas kept the Lakers off balance nearly the entire series. LA's defense was slow & looking a bit punch drunk. Slow off the dribble. Not hustling for rebounds. Not shutting down driving lanes. Very uncharacteristic to say the least. Gasol was reprimanded by Jackson so many times that I thought Phil was about to make him take a lap before play resumed.

Dallas drew first blood and went for the kill in Game 4. Mavs blew LA out in the 2nd quarter before things started turning ugly. Hats off to Dallas players for maintaining composure. LA provided Dallas every opportunity for retaliation. Smart Mavs players took the high road, kept their eyes on the bigger picture... winning an NBA Championship.

Stupidity reigns? Check out this ridiculous Bynum quote:

"We were getting embarrassed, they were breaking us down. So I just fouled somebody," Bynum said after the game. "I was just kind of salty about being embarrassed ... For me, it was embarrassing to have the smallest guy on the court keep running down the lane and making shots."

Simple question for the frustrated Laker. Why didn't anyone play defense against the "...smallest guy on the court running down the lane and making shots?" Perhaps, if Bynum stepped into the lane then running layups would be nullified? NBA Commissioner Stern should be handing out fines, suspensions soon. Not soon enough.

Dallas still has a long way to go. Their dismantling of LA in Phil Jackson's final series is no way for a legendary coach to end a fabulous career. Don't blame Phil. He's every bit as good as advertised. Dallas is simply a much better team.

(www.allworldallsports.com)

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

MLB: All Injured Team

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Baseball's injury bug is feasting on players once again in 2011 and showing no signs of slowing down. Managers are faced with plugging gaps trying to weather the storm. Fantasy managers are going nuts attempting to re-shape rosters built around sluggers spending more time on the bench than in line-ups.

How will significant injuries impact teams? Will GN's start trading to fill gaps? They will, and already have, in fantasy land.

Here's my "All Injured Team" of 2011.

1B - Kendry Morales (LAA)
2B - Chase Utley (PHI)
3B - Ryan Zimmerman (WAS)
SS - JJ Hardy (BAL)
LF - Josh Hamilton (TEX)
CF - Angel Pagan (NYM)
RF - Franklin Gutierrez (SEA)
C - Joe Mauer (MIN)
DH - Jim Thome (MIN)
SP - Adam Wainwright (STL)
CL - Brad Lidge (PHI)

(www.allworldallsports.com)

Sunday, July 3, 2011

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Friday, June 24, 2011

Monday, June 20, 2011

Thursday, June 16, 2011

Monday, June 13, 2011

Saturday, June 11, 2011

Thursday, June 9, 2011

Wednesday, June 8, 2011

Thursday, June 2, 2011

Wednesday, June 1, 2011

Tuesday, May 31, 2011

Monday, May 30, 2011

Monday, May 23, 2011

Wednesday, May 18, 2011

Tuesday, May 17, 2011

Wednesday, May 11, 2011

Sunday, May 8, 2011

Wednesday, May 4, 2011

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