Random Rumblings - Summer Heat

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New champions crowned.

NBA
Miami Heat took down up and coming Oklahoma City Thunder. 2012 NBA Finals MVP LeBron? James led his Heat to the win in 5 games. Box scores won't reveal how this series was OKC's for the taking in years to come. The Thunder blew a couple of big leads and was no match for Miami's late game heroics. Nerves? Lack of post-season experience? Youth? Or, choke? OKC will challenge for years to come as their core players are relatively young and very hungry for their first championship. Miami figures to be busy this off season fine tuning their squad attempting to repeat.

NHL
There's much to be said about getting hot at just the right moment. That moment arrived when the first puck dropped in opening round game 1 vs heavily favored Vancouver. 8th seeded Los Angeles Kings went on to play gritty no nonsense hockey the rest of the way earning their franchise's first ever Stanley Cup. My money was squarely favoring the New Jersey Devils in the Finals. The first two games went into OT when LA stunned the Devils for back to back victories which were too much to overcome. Congratulations Kings. You burnt four great teams to win it all.

NCAA
NCAA Baseball crowned a new champ - Arizona Wildcats dethroned two time defending champion South Carolina to win the College World Series. Arizona used strong pitching performances on consecutive nights to sweep the CWS finals. James Farris and Mathew Troupe combined to limit the Gamecocks to three hits a night after Konner Wade threw his third straight complete game in a 5-1 win.

"They've just been a joy," said Lopez, flanked by his key players. "I mean, how many times have I told you I love suiting up with you guys? Said it today before the game. And I really do, I like suiting up with young guys that go to class, go to study hall, hustle on the field, clean up the clubhouse on their own. I'm extremely, extremely fortunate to be in this profession and work with young people like this."

This was Arizona's 4th title and a special one for Manager Lopez who took over a team in turmoil 11 years ago. Lopez completely revitalized the Wildcats program from top to bottom. Well done Mr. Lopez.

MLB
Roger Clemens keeps piling up victories. Rocket Rogers was acquitted on all charges that he obstructed and lied to Congress in denying he used performance-enhancing drugs to extend his long career as one of the greatest and most decorated hurlers in baseball history. The Federal Government whiffed AGAIN! They've failed to nail two of baseball's biggest names - Clemens and Barry Bonds. Millions of dollars and hundreds of hours wasted to acquit two stars who will never escape the spotlight of juicing up. Careers tainted by "suspicions"? This will be forever debated.
Sometimes I can't help but wonder if these trials were really intended to convict the accused? Or, were they for public display? How in the world can Federal prosecutors drop the ball with rock solid evidence? Trials be damned, there's no way these two individuals (and dozens of others) are truly innocent.
Mark McGwire? & Sammy Sosa chasing after Roger Maris' home run record remains one of the most disgusting displays by Major League Baseball in history. Picturing McGwire? hugging an emotional Maris family - WHILE KNOWING FULL WELL HE WAS CHEATING - is a travesty. Does everyone remember McGwire? crying about how his bat will now be next to Maris in Baseball's Hall of Fame? I hope this bat is long gone from displays. As well as Bonds breaking two sacred home run records too.
I continue to say Major League Baseball - from the Commissioners Office to league owners to GM's to team doctors - all got off scott free. Once players names were served to the public as red meat a neat diversion was created to shield those needed prosecution the most. The Mitchell Report was a trojan horse diverting attention away from the game's true problem - everyone knew what was going on!!

2012 NFL Predictions (Pre-Season)

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Get ready for NFL 2012. Super Bowl defending champion New York Giants will set out to defend their title. There hasn't been a repeat champ since the 2003-04 New England Patriots. Eli Manning's Giants might just be the team to pull it off.

Time for picking winners and losers as training get underway.

AFC
East
New England Patriots - still best in East.
New York Jets* - Tebow pressures Sanchez.
Buffalo Bills - Getting better.
Miami Dolphins - Still haven't found a bonified QB since Marino.

North
Baltimore Ravens - Aging team can't get it done in playoffs.
Pittsburgh Steelers* - Last hurrah before rebuilding?
Cincinnati Bengals - Watch out, these guys might step it up in '12.
Cleveland Browns - Not a good team. Not getting better any time soon.

South
Houston Texans - What could have been if healthy?
Tennessee Titans - Solid core.
Jacksonville Jaguars - Rebuilding. In need of true team leader.
Indianapolis Colts - They have a long, long way to go.

West
Denver Broncos - Peyton Manning fans pray he's healthy.
San Diego Chargers - Norv Turner continues to be the wrong choice. Too much talent to remain mediocre season after season.
Kansas City Chiefs - Building the perfect beast.
Oakland Raiders - Defense gets a new look which could finally pay dividends.

NFC
East
New York Giants - Young, strong, dynasty in the making?
Philadelphia Eagles* - Win some, lose some.
Dallas Cowboys - Most over-rated team of 2000's.
Washington Redskins - Does anyone outside of Washington remember their glory days?

North
Green Bay Packers - Super Bowl material.
Detroit Lions* - Exciting in '11. Talented in '12.
Chicago Bears - Trying to turn the corner.
Minnesota Vikings - Sputtering offense needs a new game plan.

South
Atlanta Falcons - It's now or never time in Atlanta.
New Orleans Saints - Bounty-Gate? Only time will tell how these guys respond short handed.
Carolina Panthers - Don't be surprised if they become NFL Cinderella team.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Rebuilding will not take long.

West
San Francisco 49ers - Harbaugh the saviour. Can they repeat?
Arizona Cardinals - Win pretty, lose ugly. .500 club at best.
Seattle Seahawks - Ugliest NFL uniforms can't hide weak offense.
St. Louis Rams - Starting to assemble their future.

In depth coverage to follow. There's been plenty to discuss as we get ready for pre-season action. Stay tuned.

New Low: Terrell Owens Cut by "Indoor" Football Team

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Indoor Football League's Allen Wranglers flat out dumped Terrell Owens. According to Allen Wranglers team owner - Owens could "no longer be tolerated." T.O. was released by the Allen Wranglers and lost his ownership stake. Gone was one of the leagues most anticipated acquisitions due to - what else - Terrell Owens lousy attitude on and off the field of play.

Wranglers owner Jon Frankel issued the following statement announcing Owens termination:

"Our fans are amongst the best in the league and it is impossible to maintain a player when even our fans notice and comment on a player's lack of effort both on and off the field. We need to do what is best for this team, our fans and this community."

Once again, the NFL's former six time Pro Bowl wide receiver wore out his welcome. He's a community service nightmare evidenced by his no show for a scheduled appearance at a local children's hospital with other players and coaches. He also told the team he wasn't planning on playing in two upcoming games with playoff implications.

Terrell never tires of failing teammates. A player who used to call himself misunderstood is anything but what he claims. Owens proved time and time again he's not a team player. Not interested in community service. Not able to keep contractual agreements. Not worthy of praise.

You won't find Terrell's phone ringing for endorsements, future contracts or guest commentary appearances. He's effectively head gamed himself out of professional sports for good. It's hard to imagine anyone wanting to give this guy a 10th chance to bring disgrace to an organization. A sad ending for a physically talented individual with a terribly poor attitude

2012 NBA Western Finals - Spurs vs Thunder

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The 2012 NBA Western Conference Finals is a battle between the conference old guard San Antonio Spurs vs up and coming Oklahoma City Thunder.

The Spurs complete team game has been nothing short of total domination during sweeps over the Clippers and Utah. San Antonio's style of play represents exactly how team basketball is to be played. All players are involved. All know their roles. On defense, team quickness, rebounding skills and man to man abilities stifle opposing shooters. The Spurs held LA and Utah to a 90/ppg average. On offense, it's all about ball control setting up shooters with high percentage shots. 102.5/ppg in 8 playoff games nets 12.5 +/- per game advantage. Sinking 49.1% from the floor and 42.3% beyond the arc. Tough to beat - especially during transition play.

Oklahoma City Thunder aren't slouches either. Their popularity is growing. I barely hear the name Oklahoma City as most identify this squad as OKC. Their style is completely different. Speed and jump shots dominate offensive plays. OKC is not the dominant inside team pounding the boards. They rely on quick action and long range shots. Playoff leading shooters/scorers are outsiders - SF Durant (26.7) plus both Guards Westbrook (24.1) and Harden (17.0).

Prediction: San Antonio is better balanced in all areas. Their swarming defense will not give OKC open looks for long range jumpers. Every shot will be contested favoring big differential in transition baskets. Spurs experience and precise game play provides a huge advantage. They haven't lost a game yet. And might not the rest of the way.
San Antonio sweeps 4 very close games.

Baseball Power Rankings - May 17, 2012

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Time flies! The 2012 baseball season is nearly 25% complete. Plenty of surprises (Baltimore, Washington, Cleveland). A few disappointments (Minnesota, Arizona, Milwaukee). Sensational hitters (Josh Hamilton, David Wright, Rafael Furcal, Bryan LaHair). Slumping sluggers (Albert Pujols, Eric Hosmer). Injury bug stinging in full force derailing the likes of Mariano Rivera, Jacoby Ellsbury and a handful of other contributors.

How does it all shake out? Time for another edition of All World All Sports Baseball Power Rankings (thru day games of 5/17/12).

MLB Top 10
1 - Texas Rangers
2 - St. Louis Cardinals
3 - Los Angeles Dodgers
4 - Tampa Bay Rays
5 - Washington Nationals
6 - Baltimore Orioles
7 - Atlanta Braves
8 - Cleveland Indians
9 - New York Yankees
10- New York Mets

Talkin' Baseball (MLB)

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Another tremendous baseball season is well underway. Texas Rangers Josh Hamilton's chasing baseball's coveted triple crown (leader in home runs, runs batted in and batting average). Baseball's are jumping off his bat.

Speaking of baseball's jumping off bats - Hamilton's Texas Rangers teammates compose the game's most feared lineup. They lead all of baseball with a .292 team average, 212 runs, 386 hits, 634 total bases, .480 slugging%, .828 OPS, and +75 run differential. Rangers are hungry for their first World Series title after back to back close calls. Texas is a much stronger team than the one which came within a strike of winning it all in 2011. Their loss to St. Louis made this squad more determined than ever to fulfill childhood dreams of glory.

Speaking of St. Louis - the defending Albert Pujol-less champions haven't missed a beat this season leading the NL Central with a 21-15 record. They've over come early season injuries to key players (Wainwright, Carpenter, Beltran, Berkman, Craig, Jay & Schumacker). Replacement players have excelled. Cardinals remain a very determined team. All players are chipping in admirably.

Time to pay tribute to a few successful clubs considered longshots before this season began. Washington Nationals 1/2 game off NL East lead (24-12). Another injury riddled club playing good baseball. Manager Davey Johnson has these guys ready to go every night....

New York Mets (20-16) showing the baseball world they're not dead yet despite plenty of spring training epitaph's. It's been a mixture of young and old getting it done through injuries, slumps and lack of over all team power....

Al East leading Baltimore Orioles (23-14) players and fans finally holding their heads high for the first time in ages. Adam Jones and Matt Wieters are real deal Baltimore fixtures for years to come. It'll be a long haul and big challenge for Oriole hurlers to keep down tough AL lineups. So far so good...

Los Angeles Dodgers (24-12) own baseball's best record. Don Mattingly has won over the trust and respect of Dodger players. LA is a talented team from top to bottom. Time is ripe for them to make a run for the NL crown.

MLB just named the New York Mets (CitiField) as hosts for the 2013 All Star Game. Mets haven't hosted an All Star Game since 1964 (a travesty). It's about time baseball recognized New York's other team. It's been a long time coming for the Mets to host another ASG. I was terribly disappointed only one ASG was played in Shea Stadium.

Stay tuned... more to follow.

Random Rumblings Strike Again

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Where to begin when there's so much to discuss?

NBA Playoffs
2011-12 NBA season will crown a new champion after Oklahoma City destroyed an over matched Dallas Mavericks. Mark Cuban's expression towards the end of Game 4 showed signs of knowing his Mavs roster needs attention. Dallas collapsed in 4th quarter during 3 of 4 losses. OKC has the talent and mindset to go all the way.

San Antonio Spurs made a statement in their demolition sweep against Utah. Spurs barely broke a sweat in the first 3 games decided by double digits. Great basketball awaits in the conference finals if SA squares up vs OKC.

NHL Playoffs
The New Jersey Devils are alive and well. 2012 Devils playoff hockey features something past championships lacked - a high powered scoring attack. New Jersey stunned Philadelphia in 5. If the Rangers (leading 3-2) can finish off Washington then don't miss a single second of action in the Conference Finals. New York vs New Jersey will feature some of the best hockey of this season. I'll be rooting for the Devils every step of the way. These two represent the best of the Eastern Conference.

Western Conference Finals feature two teams barely challenged in opening rounds. Los Angeles vs Phoenix will showcase transition hockey. Neither team light up red lights too often during the regular season but they've suddenly awaken. LA Kings playing their best hockey in years. It's all coming together at just the right moment. Phoenix won the Pacific. LA finished only 2 points behind. These teams split their head to head season series with most games decided in final seconds.

MLB
How dumb can a baseball player be? Suspended: Guillermo Mota with a 100-game ban Monday after the San Francisco Giants player tested positive for performance-enhancing drugs - failed test for a second time!!! Obviously Mota didn't learn his lesson after a 50 game suspension.

Speaking of suspensions... Manny Ramirez is due to return to Major League Baseball soon after his latest suspension. Oakland A's will take their chances on Mannyball. Should be interesting. Wondering if he can still hit major league pitching after barely playing live ball in 95 games since 2010.

Way to go Josh Hamilton. By now everyone should have heard Josh slammed 4 home runs and a doubled in one game vs Baltimore. That's right, FOUR home runs... all crushed. Texas slugger is the American League's first true Triple Crown threat in years. Entering Wednesday's games he leads all major leaguers with a .406 batting average, 15 home runs & 36 RBI. Glad he's on my fantasy team! Here's a guy everyone can rally around. His past drug problems have been well documented. He's in full recovery and ressurrected his career and personal life. He's was part of a horrific tragedy attempting to throw a ball to a fan who ended up dying after falling trying to catch Hamilton's soft toss. This is a man who easily could have crumbled from tough breaks. Yet, he's fought through severe emotions and tough life challenges. Let's go Josh Hamilton!!!

Poor Ryan Dempster. The Cubs starting pitcher hasn't received any run support. Dempster leads the majors with a 1.02 ERA. His record? 0-1. How can a pitcher with a 1.02 ERA not have a victory? Simply put... he plays for the Chicago Cubs!

Heeeeeeeeere's Andy. And just in time for the Yankees struggling starting rotation. Andy Pettitte returns Sunday. One of the most loved by Yankees fans in team history... Pettitte makes his comeback attempt official when he takes on the Seattle Mariners in the friendly surroundings of a sold out Yankee Stadium. Welcome back Andy. The Yankees need you.

Oh Moooooo! Rivera Hurt, Season Over!

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Say it ain't so Mo! New York Yankees living legend Mariano Rivera slipped during Thurday's pre-game warmups and is done for the season. 2012 was hinted to be Rivera's final season. The greatest closer in the history of Major League Baseball may not return, ever!

Baseball's all time saves leader may have made his last pitch. A torn ACL shelves Rivera. Players, coaches and fans are stunned at the sudden news.

“That’s about as bad as it gets,” Girardi said. “You lose a Hall of Famer it changes [the bullpen] a lot. We like the depth of our bullpen and it just got a little bit shorter. We’ll have to find a way to get through it.”

Rivera was shagging fly balls in the outfield before Thursday's game. It's something he's done for years as a pre-game ritual. Mo's knee gave out tracking down a fly off recent call-up Jason Nix. Mo went down hard and crashed into the outfield wall. I've read reports of Alex Rodriguez and other Yankees teammates completely in a state of shock watching their fallen friend.

What a shame if this is how Rivera's career ends. It's been 9 seasons since Rivera needed a disabled list stint. Let's all hope Mariano Rivera is able to return to active duty. Depending upon how serious of a tear... he may never pitch again. Don't forget this was rumored to be his unofficial farewell season.

A word to the wise. Enjoy every moment to the fullest extent possible. Life changes on a dime without warning.

Random Rumblings - Strange & Stranger

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Back by popular demand - another installment of "All World All Sports" Random Rumblings. A few strange but true stories coming from the world of sports.

Ozzie Guillen suspended by Miami Marlins. I guess freedom of speech and expression doesn't exist in Major League Baseball. Guillen was suspended for comments he made about Fidel Castro. His comments didn't sit well with the Cuban-American crowd in South Florida which erupted into a frenzy following Guillen's praise of Castro's ability to remain free of assassination. In case you missed it, he said: "I respect Fidel Castro. You know why? A lot of people have wanted to kill Fidel Castro for the last 60 years, but that son of a bitch is still there."
Obviously, his comments touched a nerve in South Florida. However, Miami suspending their new manager during the first week of baseball season is a bit much. No one can blame folks who get upset over controversial comments. However, this stinks. If Marlins ownership was truly disturbed Guillen would be gone. Marlins brass was clearly trying to avoid losing ticket sales. This isn't a pretty picture no matter how you slice and dice the situation.

Former NFL washout Ryan Leaf charged with two counts of burglary and two counts of criminal possession of a dangerous drug. Leaf could arguably be the #1 draft pick bust in NFL history. Legal troubles continue to mount. A brief description via Wikipedia.com: "In May 2009, Leaf was indicted on burglary and controlled substance charges in Texas. He was undergoing drug rehab in British Columbia at the time of the indictment and was arrested by customs agents as he returned to the United States. On June 17, 2009, he posted $45,000 bond in Washington state for the criminal charges in Texas. In April 2010, Leaf pled guilty in Amarillo, Texas to seven counts of obtaining a controlled substance by fraud and one count of delivery of a simulated controlled substance, all felonies. State District Judge John B. Board sentenced Leaf to 10 years of probation and fined him $20,000. - On March 30, 2012 Leaf was arrested on burglary, theft, and drug charges in his hometown of Great Falls, Montana. Four days later, Leaf was arrested again on burglary, theft, and two counts of criminal possession of dangerous drugs."
Leaf's violation of parole and back to back arrests signal doom and gloom for the pain pill addicted idiot. He's been a complete washout since his college football playing days. NFL players/teammates hated his lack of work ethic. He was fired from college coaching career due to pain pills too. I guess leading a life of crime was easier than going to rehab? There's no doubt Leaf will be in jail for a few years. Over/under <1.5 character witnesses testify on Leaf's behalf.

New York Knicks climb into 2nd place in Atlantic Division - trail Boston by 3 games. Coach Mike Woodson helped turn around the Atlanta Hawks. Now he's working miracles on Broadway. The Knicks are 13-4 under his leadership and have climbed into 2nd in the Atlantic and 7th overall in Eastern Conference action. Deja vu from the shot season of 1998-99 season when the went to the NBA Finals as the 8th seed? We'll soon find out. Amazing what a mid-season coaching change can do to wake up a team. Knicks have been playing great basketball lately. Sleeper pick for sure. So was the 98-99 squad. Keep an eye on these guys.

New York Mets begin 4-0. Much has been written of Mets failures in recent years from ownership to players. New York opened their season at home and delighted fans with 4 consecutive victories to begin the new season. They swept arch rival Atlanta Braves in 3 games. Johan Santana is back. Niese pitched a 1-hitter. Duda is the new fan favorite. Wright is off to a quick start. Bullpen didn't blow any games. A solid beginning for a team trying to put turmoil in their rear view mirror. Enjoy it while it lasts.

"Rangers Fans" - Shannon and Cooper Stone statue unveiled in Arlington. Nine months after a Texas Rangers fan & father (Shannon) died trying to catch a baseball thrown by Josh Hamilton, his 7-year-old son (Cooper) helped unveil a statue honoring his father and others who love America’s pastime. Last season, Shannon Stone reached too far to catch a baseball for his son and died from injuries sustained after falling from the upper deck in front of a stunned Texas crowd. How many times have we (fans) lunged for baseball's at games? How many times have we witnessed fellow fans scramble and fight to retrieve baseball's? This time it was tragic as a father fell to his death right before his sons eyes. Texas Rangers management honored the father and son. Shannon and Cooper Stone statue is a tremendous (and heart breaking) dedication. Nolan Ryan & Rangers ownership represent baseball's best. This is a tremendous tribute - not only to the Stone's - but, for fans everywhere.

2012 Stanley Cup Playoff Predictions

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Time flies! NHL Playoffs begin Wednesday night. Can the Boston Bruins become the first team to win back to back Stanley Cups since Detroit pulled it off in 1997-98?

Defending champion Boston had an up and down season on their way to winning the Northeast. NHL's top point getters Vancouver (111) hopes to take home the Cup after losing to Boston last season. Never count out New Jersey Devils - winners of six games in a row to close out the regular season.

Let's take a look into our crystal ball to predict who will win it all.

2012 EASTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS
Series A: (1) New York Rangers over (8) Ottawa Senators 4 games to 1.
Series B: (2) Boston Bruins over (7) Washington Capitals 4 games to 3.
Series C: (3) New Jersey Devils over (6) Florida Panthers 4 games to 2.
Series D: (4) Pittsburgh Penguins over (5) Philadelphia Flyers 4 games to 0.

EASTERN SEMI-FINALS
(4) Pittsburgh over (1) New York 4 games to 2.
(3) New Jersey over (2) Boston 4 games to 3.

EASTERN FINALS
(4) Pittsburgh over (3) New Jersey 4 games to 1.

2012 WESTERN CONFERENCE QUARTERFINALS
Series E: (1) Vancouver Canucks over (8) Los Angeles Kings 4 games to 0.
Series F: (2) San Jose Sharks over (7) St. Louis Blues 4 games to 1.
Series G: (6) Phoenix Coyotes over (3) Chicago Blackhawks 4 games to 2.
Series H: (4) Detroit Red Wings over (5) Nashville Predators 4 games to 2.

WESTERN SEMI-FINALS
(1) Vancouver over (6) Phoenix 4 games to 2.
(4) Detroit over (2) San Jose 4 games to 2.

WESTERN FINALS
(1) Vancouver over (4) Detroit 4 games to 3.

2012 STANLEY CUP FINALS
Vancouver Canucks over Pittsburgh Penguins 4 games to 2.

2012 MLB Regular Season Predictions (Final)

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All World All Sports previously made baseball predictions during the first week of spring training. The regular season has begun and it's now time to update our final regular season prognistications.

Major League Baseball announced additional Wild Card teams beginning this season. There will be a single game playoff involving one additional team per league. In other words, two Wild Card teams per league will generate added playoff fever by the time September rolls around.

Lets get to it.

American League
East
New York Yankees - Powerful lineup. Starting pitching remains #1 concern.
Tampa Bay Rays - Winning/losing squarely on shoulders of starting pitchers in division with potent lineups.
Toronto Blue Jays - This team plays long ball. Starting pitchers need to stay sharp. Don't be surprised if they finish first.
Boston Red Sox - Bobby Valentine's arrival has increased tensions. It's going to be a long season in Boston.
Baltimore Orioles - Simply outclassed by 4 better divisional opponents.

Central
Detroit Tigers - Pitching + hitting = wins. Suspect defense could hurt in playoffs.
Kansas City Royals - That's right. KC has a great nucleus of young talent. Will pitchers have stamina to survive 162?
Chicago White Sox - Dunn is back on track.
Minnesota Twins - Lack of extra back hit ability will hurt.
Cleveland Indians - They may surprise if injury free.. probably not.

West
Texas Rangers - Great lineup. Solid D. Two time West champs will be challenged by Angels. Staying healthy key to success.
Los Angeles Angels - How far will they go? Division champs? Wild Card? Tough team, tougher to handicap. Golden if injury free.
Oakland A's - Competitive but lacking power of Angels/Rangers.
Seattle Mariners - Nothing to write about after Hernandez/Ichiro.

Wild Cards: Angels, Rays. Don't count out Toronto or KC.
AL Champ: Rangers.
AL Cy Young: Verlander (DET)
AL MVP: Butler (KC)

National League
East
Philadelphia Phillies - Loaded rotation.
Miami Marlins - New look team getting stronger & wealthier.
Atlanta Braves - Developing problems, injuries, searching for answers.
New York Mets - Duda & Wright take advantage of shorter fences. Pitchers surprise.
Washington Nationals - Fail to live up to promo's. Pitchers faulter.

Central
St. Louis Cardinals - Defending champs lose Albert, Carpenter hurting. Deep team, talented... won't miss a beat.
Cincinnati Reds - Players love Dusty Baker. Pitching key to success. Lineup is locked and loaded.
Milwaukee Brewers - Excited fans will be disappointed. This former AL team should have been singled out to switch back to AL. Guess former owner turned commissioner keeps them protected.
Pittsburgh Pirates - Young team slowly improving.
Houston Astros - Final season in NL. New owners shafted by agreeing to shift to AL in 2013. HUGE mistake.
Chicago Cubs - Not even overrated Epstein can help an aging banged up team.

West
Arizona Cardinals - Tough team. Gibson keeps them ready to play.
San Francisco Giants - Many question marks. Talented. Will make run at playoffs.
Los Angeles Dodgers - New ownership. Where will they take this team. Nucleus is solid.
Colorado Rockies - Ho-hum.
San Diego Padres - Need to take a lesson from others... move in outfield fences.

Wild Card: Reds, Giants.
NL Champ: Cardinals.
NL Cy Young: Kennedy (ARI)
NL MVP: Duda (NYM)

Power Ranking Top 10's

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It's a great time of year to be a sports enthusiast. NCAA Basketball Tournaments. NBA & NHL teams fighting for playoff position. Baseball season soon to be in full swing. NFL teams putting pieces together for another new season. PGA & LPGA swingers tee off. NASCAR burning rubber. All in all, there's something for everyone.

Time to handicap (power rank) major sports top 10 teams.

MLB
1. St. Louis Cardinals (World Series Champions always return as pre-season #1 in All World All Sports polls).
2. Philadelphia Phillies
3. Texas Rangers
4. New York Yankees
5. Detroit Tigers
6. Los Angeles Angels
7. San Francisco Giants
8. Tampa Bay Rays
9. Milwaukee Brewers
10. Atlanta Braves

NBA
1. Chicago Bulls
2. Miami Heat
3. Oklahoma City Thunder
4. San Antonio Spurs
5. LA Lakers
6. Orlando Magic
7. Dallas Mavericks
8. Philadelphia 76ers
9. Indiana Pacers
10. Atlanta Hawks

NFL
1. New York Giants (Super Bowl Champions)
2. Green Bay Packers
3. New England Patriots
4. Pittsburgh Steelers
5. Baltimore Ravens
6. New Orleans Saints
7. San Francisco 49ers
8. Denver Broncos
9. Houston Texans
10. Detroit Lions

NHL
1. St. Louis Blues
2. New York Rangers
3. Vancouver Canucks
4. Pittsburgh Penguins
5. Detroit Red Wings
6. Philadelphia Flyers
7. Nashville Predators
8. Boston Bruins
9. Chicago Blackhawks
10. New Jersey Devils

NASCAR (Sprint Cup Standings - current)
1. Greg Biffle
2. Kevin Harvick
3. Dale Earnhardt Jr.
4. Tony Stewart
5. Martin Truex Jr.
6. Matt Kenseth
7. Denny Hamlin
8. Clint Bowyer
9. Jimmie Johnson
10. Ryan Newman

Tebow Invades New York

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Never before has so much attention focused on a back up quarterback in New York. The New York Jets officially presented former Denver Broncos QB Tim Tebow to Big Apple reporters for a press conference this afternoon.

Much has been made about the Jets trading for Tebow. Mark Sanchez is New York's starter, period. New York sports sections have not been fans of the Jets newest acquisition. Get ready folks. Everything changes on a dime with fickle New York reporters. Over the years, New York papers have turned on long time sports legends from Roger Maris to Wayne Gretzky. Get ready Sanchez... reporters will quickly create rough times if the Jets stumble next September.

Many have publicly questioned why the Jets bothered bringing Tebow to an already disfunctional team. New York's 2011 season was a bitter disappointment to players and fans. Much was written regarding lack of team leadership and clubhouse turmoil. What are New Yorkers to think of Tebow's sudden arrival?

There's plenty of pro's and con's. Let's break it down.

Pro's. 1) Tebow is a class act. His dedication to the game - and life - is well documented. 2) Jets will score a grand slam in revenue generated merchandising of Tebow. 3) Tebow is a proven end of game miracle worker. 4) Defenses will have to adjust to Tebow's cat-like reflexes, scrambling ability and strength. 5) Jets can design specific Tebow plays from roll-outs to Wildcat offense. 6) He can be utilized in various formations - there's been hints of getting Tebow involved in other positions. 7) Perhaps other players can draw off Tebow's faith. 8) Tebow's presence should quickly mature Sanchez into a believer. 9) Sanchez will hopefully work much harder to execute game plans. 10) Sanchez knows Tebow is waiting in the wings for an opportunity to play forcing the Jets starter to get on the same page with coaches and receivers (missing in all of 2011). 11) Coaches hoping Tebow is a positive leader in the lockerroom. 12) Trading for a proven winner is anything but negative. Jets should feel secure in the knowledge their new #2 can step in at anytime for their current #1.

Con's 1) Jets players already criticizing their newest teammate. 2) Jets would be foolish to take too many snaps away from Sanchez - unless Sanchez doesn't improve from last season's mistakes. 3) Coaches will repeat grave mistakes allowing reporters to create circus like atmosphere. 4) Cost - Tebow is a high priced backup and cost them draft picks. It's win now or pay a heavy price later. 5) Sanchez knock is he's not a team leader as proven again in '11. He'll either step up or fold under Tebow pressure. 6) All eyes are on Tebow. It's too much too soon. Ryan has to get back on message (or find one). 7) For two consecutive years the Jets were in circus-like mode making wild unfulfilled Super Bowl predictions - if it happens again in 2012 then this current squad is doomed.

Jets football needs to quickly re-focus. Tebow's press conference is over. He's been introduced. Now it's time for coaches to grab the bull by the horns and concentrate on 2012 football. Ryan had better have a sit down with Sanchez - quickly. If Sanchez isn't ready to lead, truly lead, then he needs to fess up to Ryan. Sanchez hasn't shown late game leadership ability. Hasn't shown lockerroom leadership ability. Hasn't earned the respect from wide receivers or offensive linemen. Too much focus has been on Tebow. Truth be told, if Sanchez was all of the above then Tebow would be playing elsewhere.

Unsportsmanlike Conduct Sacks Saints

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NFL commissioner Roger Goodell slammed the New Orleans Saints "bounty" program. "A combination of elements made this matter particularly unusual and egregious." Goodell's statement also said, "a strong and lasting message must be sent."

In an unprecedented move Goodall suspended head coach Sean Payton without pay for the 2012 season, ordered Saints to forfeit second round draft picks for two years, indefinitely suspended former defensive coordinator Gregg Williams, suspended GM Micky Loonis for 8 games, suspended assistanct coach Joe Vitt for six games and fined the organization $500,000. This all stems from New Orleans coaches offering cash bounties to their players for targeting/injuirng opposing players.

Good for Goodall. A harsh sentence for unsportsmanlike conduct. It's no secret NFL players try their best to levy hits to remember against opponents. But, it's another thing when coaches offer cash "bounties" to take out opponents.

Payton becomes the first NFL coach suspended for any reason. He's been accused of covering up extra cash bonuses to players by ignoring instructions from the NFL and Saints ownership to make sure bounties weren't being paid (after the league first caught wind last season). The NFL took down Payton for "falsely deny that the program existed," and for trying to "encourage the false denials by instructing assistants to 'make sure our ducks are in a row."

This was as blatent as it gets in professional football. Coaches paying players to inflict harm. I can guarantee you bounties exist far beyond the NFL. I'm willing to bet it happens in college & high school football too (probably without cash payments).

Football is a tough game. New Orleans will pay a heavy price for their actions. Quite frankly, losing second round draft picks for two years isn't harsh enough. First round picks are justified in a situation where the commissioner's office directly forewarned Saints coaches to end this practice - they did not. No denials coming from New Orleans either. Plenty of apologies - suggesting this practice was in place for at least a few seasons.

Hats off to NFL officials on using the Saints as examples. I'm amazed their shenangan's remained a secret for this long. It shouldn't surprise anyone to learn this practice has been in place with many teams in the past. Hard to imagine legendary Bears, Raiders and a handful of others not instituting bounties. There's one glaring difference - the NFL will no longer put up with this kind of behavior.

2012 Preview: Colorado Rockies

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Colorado (73-89) endured a difficult season in 2011. Pitching was a sore spot last season. Don't expect anything different this season. Colorado is in store for another long year.

Their starting rotation boils down to spring training battles. As of now, most prognosticators expect the following opening day starting five: Jeremy Guthrie, Jhoulys Chacin, Drew Pomeranz, Juan Nicasio and Guillermo Moscoso. In my book, there's two locks - Guthrie & Chacin - with the final three slots up for grabs. Veteran Jamie Moyer is having a great spring and the Rockies would be crazy not adding this guy to the rotation. Alex White, Tyler Chatwood, Josh Outman and Esmil Rogers were considered competitors but none of those final four names are turning heads.

Michael Cuddyer (OF/1B) and Ramon Hernandez (C) are welcomed additions. Plenty of key losses from the lineup including once heralded catcher Chris Iannetta and closer Hudson Street. Also lost - Mark Ellis, Ty Wigginton, Seth Smith, Jason Hammel, Aaron Cook and a handful of other role players.

Depth has been lost but starters are strong. Around the horn: 1B Todd Helton, 2B Marco Scutaro, SS Troy Tulowitzki, 3B Casey Blake. Catching flies from LF to RF: Carlos Gonzalez, Dexter Fowler and Mike Cuddyer. Rockies have a well balanced lineup attack from top to bottom.
Rafael Betancourt is their new closer. There's a handful of players battling to fill bullpen roles yet to be settled. Colorado's bullpen will be the difference between winning and losing in a wide open NL West.

Prediction: A healthy offense will go a long way to winning games. 2012 lineup has no holes. A good mix of speed, power and contact. Defense is solid. Colorado's fate rest squarely on their pitchers ability to hold leads in tight situations. Lack of depth will only become a concern if regulars are sidelined for significant time. This team has much to prove. Success is within their grasp... or not. Handicapping this team heading into regular season play at +/-80 wins. Don't be surprised to see Colorado win the NL West. It'll probably turn out as win some, lose some.

2012 MLB Preview: Seattle Mariners

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Does anyone remember Seattle won 116 games back in 2001? Seattle was a team on the rise. They reeled off 90+ wins in four consecutive season's to begin the new millennium. Since then, losers in 6 of 8 including 95 last year.

Good news on the horizon? Perhaps 2012 marks the beginning of a new Mariners era of better baseball. Don't expect miracles - or 80 wins. There's a nucleus of young talent and Seattle hopes these guys are the answer for years to come.

Starting rotation appears set with Felix Hernandez returning to dazzle hitters. If it wasn't for weak hitting teammates - Felix would be a 20 game winners year after year. Japanese import Hisashi Iwakuma was rated 2nd to Rangers Yu Darvish but there's concern over whether or not his shoulder is sound - and if his fastball is strong enough to get out Major League hitters consistantly? Jason Vargas is locked in. Blake Beavan and Hector Noesi hope good fortunes of spring secure April rotation slots.

Closer Brandon League saved 37 in '11. Seattle's bullpen was gassed by mid-season. Expect more of the same if starters faulter.

Seattle's biggest acquisition - Jesus Montero - came at the expense of future star flame thrower, Michael Pineda. It was well worth it for a M's team struggling to score runs. Montero is the real deal. He'll hit in the middle of a young, untested lineup. It's a make or break year for 1B Justin Smoak. Dustin Ackley is a star for years to come at 2B. SS remains a weak spot with Brendan Ryan. 3B/OF Chone Figgins has been a monumental bust for Seattle after tearing it up for the Angels. He's battling Kyle Seager for the starting nod at 3B. Ichiro returns to RF. CF Franklin Gutierrez hasn't lived up to hype. LF is Mike Carp's to win or lose this spring unless Smoak bombs out (then Carp moves to first). Behind the plate is Miguel Olivo who provides a little pop when not striking out. All in all, Seattle's lineup is weakest in AL West on paper. They're going to need heads up base running and timely hitting or this will be another long season.

Prediction: Seattle's lineup can't compete vs Texas and Angels. Montero, Ackley & Hernandez will put up great numbers. It's anyone's guess how the rest of this team does. Rebuilding comes in many forms. If young hitters struggle (Smoak, Gutierrez, Seager) then Seattle's make over will need another. 70+ wins is generous in this division but it's within reach if peaces fit.

2012 MLB Preview: Cincinnati Reds

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Cincinnati fans optimism is in high gear. Reds added three potentially key pieces to their team puzzle. Starting pitcher Mat Latos (from Padres), closer Ryan Madson (Phillies) & reliever Sean Marshall (Cubs) instantly upgrade Cincy's pitching staff. Dusty Baker must be smiling. Reds have a great opportunity to make a run at the Central title.

More good news for Reds fans. Gone from NL Central foes are two slugging 1B. Albert Pujols (Cardinals) and Prince Fielder (Brewers) signed big money contracts with American League teams.
Reds lineup packs a punch. Joey Votto (1B), Brandon Phillips (2B) & Jay Bruce (RF) are the core of a maturing lineup. Much is expected of LF Heisey & CF Stubbs. Reds are high on SS Zack Cozart.

Starting rotation has talent and should receive plenty of run support. Problem is pitching in a hitters friendly home park. Great American gives up runs in bunches. Cueto, Latos, Arroyo, Bailey & Leake must come out of the gates on fire. Cincinnati lacks a lefty starter which could hurt down the stretch.

New closer Madson will get plenty of save opportunities. Marshall joins a bunch of strikeout artists out of the pen (Masset, Chapman, Ondrusek & Bray). Cincinnati's pitching staff might lead the league in strikeouts.

Prediction: The future is now. Cincinnati has assembled a winning formula on paper. Champion Cardinals still favorites to win Central. Reds will challenge. MLB added another Wild Card team beginning in 2012. Reds appear to have the inside track. 90+ wins well within reach.

2012 MLB Preview: New York Mets

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2012 will bring another disastrous season in Flushing for New York Mets fans. All factors suggest the Mets will be rebuilding for a long time to come. Only a few short years ago New York's "other" team was considered championship caliber. Times have changed. It all begins at the top.

Years of overspending on broken down veterans cost this club dearly. Not only did the Mets trade talent for over prices duds - they also mortgaged their minor league system which was one of the top farm systems in baseball.

Not too many bright spots for fans to trek into Flushing to see firsthand. Gone is fan favorite Jose Reyes. 3B David Wright is already hurting, again. He promises to be ready by opening day. At this point he shouldn't risk taking the field unless he's 110%. Only Johan Santana returning from a long injury hiatus offers a glimpse of something cheer about.

Around the horn projections: Ike Davis returning from injury at 1B. Daniel Murphy (2B) and Ruben Tejada (SS) form a weak double play combination. Wright hopes closer fences at remodeled CitiField helps power numbers. However, a muscle injured ribcage takes time to heal and strengthen.
From LF to RF: Jason Bay has been a huge bust. Starting slowly in spring training offers no hope - and not helping to create ready, willing and able buyers/traders. Andres Torres in CF (WHO?????). Lucas Duda quickly won over fans in '11 is being given every opportunity to win RF honors.

Josh Thole is the backstop. He'll have both hands full trying to tame an erratic and soon to be overworked pitching staff. There is no staff ace. Santana returns but hasn't pitched a full season since 2008. Mike Pelfrey, Jonathon Niese, R.J. Dickey & Dillan Gee. Good luck vs NL East. Middle men aren't going to scare any hitters unless they're jumping away from wild pitches. Pitching staff is an ugly combination. Frank Francisco (3.72) will try saving games (if the Mets ever have a lead).

Prediction: Mets will have a very difficult time winning games in NL East. Phillies, Braves, Nationals & Marlins can all out hit, pitch, run and defend. 100 losses well within reach. Citifield will continue getting panned from critics (including me). It's taken a long time and hundreds of thousands of complaints to finally get "Mets" owners to recognize former "Mets" players. This is a stadium built with Dodgers & Giants themes everywhere.

NFL Free Agent Frenzy Takes Off

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Talk about a busy news cycle for NFL players, teams, owners and a future Hall of Fame QB. The spending spree is on! This week has been filled with rumors and lucrative contract signings. A few highlights include....

Peyton Manning. Jets are out. Broncos & Titans front-runners. If Peyton goes to Denver then Tebow will go. Denver is doing everything within their power to land Manning. Titans are coming on strong. What ever happened to Miami rumors? Are the Dolphins willing to pass over another top flight QB?

Calvin Johnson. Meet the NFL's highest ever paid WR - deal will be worth $132 million over the course of the 7 year extension with an NFL-record $60 million in guaranteed money. Believe it or not, CJ's deal saves Detroit $9M in cap money.

DeSean Jackson re-signs with Philly for 5 years, $48.5M. Eagles flopped in 2011. Good to see players being rewarded in off years... not.

Brandon Carr. NFL's top rated FA cornerback signs with Dallas for 5 years, $50.1M. A step in the right direction for underachieving Dallas Cowboys.

Cortland Finnegan. NFL's "other" top CB on the market signed with the Rams for five years and $50 million. Rebuilding Rams collecting puzzle pieces.

Kyle Orton. Cowboys pick up Romo's understudy. No QB controversy. At least not until December football rolls around.

John Carlson. TE was given 25 million reasons to sign with Vikings (5 years, $25M). Not sure this was a wise spending move for a team needing a ton of help on offense. Maybe the beginning of more to come.

Vincent Jackson. Penny pinchers no more. Tampa Bay coming on strong in free agency for the first time in recent memory. Tampa's era of mediocre teams coming to conclusion. VJ signs 5 year, $55M contract.

Carl Nicks. Bucs snatch All Pro offensive guard from division rival Saints and make him NFL's highest paid guard. 5 years, $47.5M will be worth every penny assuming Nicks continues All Pro status.

Eric Wright. Another strong Tampa Bay signing. Bucs hoping he's a difference maker in secondary. 3 big moves with more to follow.

Brandon Marshall. Perhaps it's time to revive curses. Miami's free falling began when Don Shula was shoved out the door. Next came Jimmy Johnson handcuffing Dan Marino. The post Shula/Marino years produced the ugliest brand of football in Miami Dolphins history. 2012 was to be a different story. Another new beginning. So what does Miami do? They just traded their only legitimate WR threat. Brandon Marshall heads to Chicago for two 3rd round draft picks. Great move by Bears - a team slowly building a great offense for new offensive coordinator Mike Tice.

Pierre Garcon. Last one out - turn off the lights. Colts may not win a game in 2012. Garcon ran out of Indy to sign with Washington - five years for $42.5 million.

Josh Morgan. Joins Garcon in Washington. Redskins finally have speed and pass catching ability at both starting receiver positions for the first time in recent memory. Now they need someone to throw the ball in their direction.

Keep an eye on your local sports ticker. Many more deals going on at negotiating tables across our nation. A few more big splash headlines coming soon....

Peyton Manning Signs Contract with....

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Peyton Manning Signs Contract with (fill in the blank) will soon grace sports news pages in the coming days. In a not so stunning move - and completely professional by both the Colts and Manning - Indianapolis cut their star quarterback.

Manning's legacy in Indianapolis will live on forever. His on field and off field actions are a model for all to follow. Manning has created many programs aimed at helping the less fortunate - especially disadvantaged children. Peyton's NFL career has been exceptional. He had started 208 consecutive games. Indy won 10 or more games in 11 of 13 Manning's seasons. He compiled a 141-67 regular season record. Threw for 54,828 yards - 399 TD's - 94.9 rating. Won 2006 Super Bowl XLI. 4 time MVP. Records galore. Then came 2011. Manning's neck injury...

Peyton didn't play a single game in 2011. All concerned are asking two questions. First is all about health. Can or should Peyton risk further injury? Is he, or will he ever be, sound to play at the same high level? Second, assuming Manning wants to play... which team will he select?

To nobody's surprise Manning was cut by the Colts in a cost cutting move. Indy is in a massive roster restructuring fast forwarded after a dismal 2-14 season without their leader. Coaches and front office firings immediately after the season sent shock waves throughout Indianapolis. Everyone was caught off guard - including Manning.

I'm sure Manning will miss playing for the only franchise he's ever been associated. Time for him to turn the page. Many teams will come running. I'm sure he's already picked a few favorites. Here's a player who has nothing left to prove. He's done it all. Perhaps a political career after NFL? As for now, my only advice to Peyton is do what you know deep down in your heart is the right thing to do. If your neck is 110% healthy with little risk of permanent injury by way of a hard NFL hit... then go for it. If you're not 110% then retire with the same dignity illustrated throughout your professional life.

Peyton Manning Signs Contract with..... time to fill in the blanks.

New York Jets. Sanchez is the Jets future. Manning can be their now man. I can't think of a better tutor than Peyton Manning. Peyton & Eli playing in the same city, same stadium, opposite leagues. Intriguing to think of Manning vs Manning Super Bowl. Both Manning's grabbing headlines every week would bring a new level to New York football excitement. They'd both be on the same stage. The Jets promised a Super Bowl only to watch Eli & Giants win it again. Jets have plenty of WR weapons and his leadership can quickly turn around a leaderless team. There's no better bit. The Manning brothers take New York. Endorsements galore. Victories plentiful.

Miami Dolphins. Here's a team sorely missing a field leader for the entire century. Not a single top flight QB has been under center since Dan Marino retired following the 1999 season. Miami has some talent. Add another pass catcher and they're good to go. Pass protection shouldn't be much of an issue either. Miami's new owners itching for playoff return and will offer up a big dollar deal.

Tennessee Titans. Here's a team never mentioned? Why not? Manning's starred at University of Tennessee. Titans have a good line, solid receivers, a featured back and solid defense. They're probably a great fit. Manning can quickly turn this team into playoff caliber. Question is salary cap room. Hasselback proved he's not the answer to QB problems.

Washington Redskins. Perhaps only the Raiders have made as many (or more) worse player decisions than Washington under Snyder's rule. Revolving door of coaches, front office staff & player personnel. Redskins "NEED" a quarterback. They need a lot more too which is why Washington will be big bidders. However, there's no way Peyton enters NFC East to face Eli twice per season. And, there's no way Peyton signs with a shaky team. He's just not desperate enough to play here.

Arizona Cardinals. Plenty of hype trying to match Manning with Larry Fitzgerald. That's about as far as it goes. Offensive line isn't very good and options beyond Fitzgerald aren't consistent. On the upside, Cards could have top notch defense in 2012. Good climate. I just don't see it.

Seattle Seahawks. Seattle's QB is Tavaris Jackson. These guys need help. A team on the rise really needing a solid QB to compliment an ever improving roster. Not quite the team one pictures Manning finishing an illustrious career. He's high on their list. Are they on his?  Doubtful.

Kansas City Chiefs. It worked once before when KC brought in legendary Joe Montana to lead them into playoffs. Romeo Crennel holds no punching with enthusiasm of potentially signing one of the all time greats. If they commit to upgrading offensive line then these guys are in the running. KC can take the AFC West with Manning calling the shots.

Denver Broncos. I'm including Denver only because everywhere I turn their name enters Manning sweepstakes competition. Why? Tebow might not the answer just yet. This is a team in late rebuilding stages. Why commit so much money and cap space to a player in twilight of career vs signing multiple younger future stars? It'll be a tough call for Denver to make.

In my book the Manning sweepstakes has two legit contenders. I'm of the belief Manning knows exactly where he wants to play next season (if he doesn't retire). New York Jets or Miami Dolphins. Playing in the same city with brother Eli is too hard to resist. Option 2 is sunny Miami. Option 3, Tennessee. Expect a quick decision.