Apologies everyone for not updating the last few days. I've been in the process of moving and my internet access has been in flux. I'm trying to get it worked out and when I do, there will be more updates on here. Here's some of what's been going on in sports the past few days:
The Blackhawks lead the Flyers 2 games to none in the Stanley Cup Final with Game 3 set for Wednesday night on Versus. I'd say it's a must win for the Flyers, but they did rally from a 3-0 series deficit earlier in the playoffs against the Bruins. Both games have been decided by one goal, so I think there is still hope for the Flyers as they return home.
The NBA Finals get underway Thursday night on ABC with the (4) Boston Celtics taking on the (1) Los Angeles Lakers. I'll take the Lakers in seven even though I'm really, really hoping the Celtics can find a way to win it. I think it'll be a good series.
The Philadelphia Phillies had a perfect game from Roy Halladay on Saturday. Pretty incredible that we've had two in about three weeks when there have only been 20 now in the history of baseball. The Phils have been struggling lately and have fallen a half-game behind the Atlanta Braves following today's loss at Turner Field. With the season almost a third of the way through, the only prediction I regret is picking the White Sox to win the AL Central. My other picks: Rays, Angels, Phillies, Cardinals and Rockies with the Yankees and Braves taking the Wild Cards. Those all still seem plausible and I guess the White Sox could somehow turn it around but I'm not thinking that will happen.
Anyway, I will try and get the internet access issues resolved and at that point there will be more regular updates to the blog. Thanks for your patience.
Monday, May 31, 2010
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Stanley Cup Finals set
The (7) Philadelphia Flyers defeated the (8) Montreal Canadiens 4-2 tonight in Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals to win the series 4 games to 1. The Flyers take on the (2) Chicago Blackhawks in the Stanley Cup Finals. The Blackhawks swept the (1) San Jose Sharks in the Western Conference Finals. The Flyers may be a team of destiny after coming back from a 3-0 series deficit to defeat the (6) Boston Bruins in the previous round. I still think the Blackhawks are too deep and talented and will win the series. They've been playing better and better hockey throughout the playoffs. However, I don't think the Flyers should be discounted as they have been playing well too. I think it should be a good series and for those of you wondering I'll be rooting for Philadelphia. I'm not particularly a fan of either team but I think it's kind of cool that the Stanley Cup Finals will once again be featuring teams from more traditionally hockey regions. I think that is good for the game. Here's how the series schedule looks (Games 5-7 if necessary):
Game 1 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Saturday 5/29, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 2 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Monday 5/31, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 3 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Wednesday 6/2, 6 p.m. MT (Versus)
Game 4 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Friday 6/4, 6 p.m. MT (Versus)
Game 5 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Sunday 6/6, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 6 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Wednesday 6/9, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 7 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Friday 6/11, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 1 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Saturday 5/29, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 2 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Monday 5/31, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 3 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Wednesday 6/2, 6 p.m. MT (Versus)
Game 4 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Friday 6/4, 6 p.m. MT (Versus)
Game 5 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Sunday 6/6, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 6 -- Chicago at Philadelphia, Wednesday 6/9, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Game 7 -- Philadelphia at Chicago, Friday 6/11, 6 p.m. MT (NBC)
Monday, May 24, 2010
Magic stave off elimination with OT win
The (2) Orlando Magic defeated the (4) Boston Celtics 96-92 in overtime tonight in the TD Garden in Boston in Game 4 of the Eastern Conference Finals. The Celtics lead the series 3-1. Dwight Howard had 32 points and 16 rebounds for the Magic while Jameer Nelson added 23 points and 9 assists. J.J. Redick chipped in 12 off the bench including three 3 pointers. Paul Pierce had 32 points and 11 rebounds for the Celtics while Ray Allen added 22 points on five 3 pointers.
Looks like I, along with most other people, had this one wrong. I said last night that I thought Howard looked defeated, but he had a very strong game and apparently even had an inspirational speech to his teammates before the game. Redick seemed to always hit a three when the Celtics were making a run to stop their momentum. You can't underestimate how big those 3 pointers were for the psyche of the Magic. Nelson had a couple of big threes in overtime, including one that he banked in. Both of those shots were big in helping the Magic in seizing control of overtime. Now the Magic go home for Game 5 on Wednesday. Tip-off is at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. The Magic have a chance to make things really interesting with a home win.
Looks like I, along with most other people, had this one wrong. I said last night that I thought Howard looked defeated, but he had a very strong game and apparently even had an inspirational speech to his teammates before the game. Redick seemed to always hit a three when the Celtics were making a run to stop their momentum. You can't underestimate how big those 3 pointers were for the psyche of the Magic. Nelson had a couple of big threes in overtime, including one that he banked in. Both of those shots were big in helping the Magic in seizing control of overtime. Now the Magic go home for Game 5 on Wednesday. Tip-off is at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. The Magic have a chance to make things really interesting with a home win.
NBA Conference Finals update
The (3) Phoenix Suns beat the (1) Los Angeles Lakers 118-109 tonight in Game 3 of the Western Conference Finals after dropping the first two games by scores of 128-107 and 124-112. In tonight's game, Amare Stoudemire had 42 points and 11 rebounds, Robin Lopez had 20 points, Jason Richardson had 19 (4 of 7 on 3 pointers), and Steve Nash had 17 points and 15 assists. Kobe Bryant had 36 points, 11 assists and 9 rebounds for the Lakers, while Pau Gasol had 23 with 9 boards and Derek Fisher had 18 points on 3 of 6 shooting from 3 point range.
The Suns had a complete team game in what was absolutely a must-win game for them. Stoudemire bounced back from two sub-par performances in Los Angeles and had a simply dominating game. He seemed to be more aggressive in taking the ball to the hoop and putting pressure on the Lakers' big men. I think he can play really well the rest of the series if he continues to do that. His jump shot was also falling and in fact it seemed like he could do little wrong tonight. Lopez was huge as well. If the Suns can continue to get that kind of production out of him, I think this will be a long series. Nash was just Nash, he had a great game and even played through his latest injury, a broken nose that was a result of a collision with Fisher. And Richardson's timely 3s can't be discounted at all either. Game 4 is Tuesday at 7 p.m. MT on TNT. The Suns will need to bring the same intensity and sense of urgency they brought tonight because Game 4 is a must-win also. I'm hoping they can make this series interesting.
In the Eastern Conference Finals the (4) Boston Celtics lead the (2) Orlando Magic 3 games to none after winning the first three games by scores of 92-88, 95-92 and 94-71. The Celtics are looking like a buzz saw right now. They are playing really good team basketball and the way they took Orlando to the wood shed last night in a game the Magic had to have was impressive. Game 4 is Monday in Boston at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. I think the Celtics will close it out with a sweep. I expect to see a lot of fans with brooms in the stands.
The Celtics play of late has been nothing short of shocking. I didn't think they would be able to beat Cleveland, but they did so and now they've taken the first three against an Orlando team that swept through the first two rounds. I thought this would be a long series with mostly close games, but it looks like it will be over Monday night. I saw an interview with Magic big man Dwight Howard on TNT tonight, and while he said his team wasn't defeated, he sounded somber and, as analyst Charles Barkley said, defeated throughout the interview. I thought the Magic had a really good team and that they would be giving Boston a much better series. They need to win Monday's game to keep their season alive.
In other NBA news, reports have surfaced that the Cavaliers indeed have decided to fire head coach Mike Brown, a development that has a surprise factor of zero to me. Brown was badly outcoached the last two years in the playoffs by Orlando's Stan Van Gundy and Boston's Doc Rivers and I thought that although the team won a lot of games in the regular season, they weren't coached well enough under Brown to win a title. They have been able to win a lot of games based largely on the sheer talent of LeBron James, but they have been lacking the coaching to get to the next level.
The Suns had a complete team game in what was absolutely a must-win game for them. Stoudemire bounced back from two sub-par performances in Los Angeles and had a simply dominating game. He seemed to be more aggressive in taking the ball to the hoop and putting pressure on the Lakers' big men. I think he can play really well the rest of the series if he continues to do that. His jump shot was also falling and in fact it seemed like he could do little wrong tonight. Lopez was huge as well. If the Suns can continue to get that kind of production out of him, I think this will be a long series. Nash was just Nash, he had a great game and even played through his latest injury, a broken nose that was a result of a collision with Fisher. And Richardson's timely 3s can't be discounted at all either. Game 4 is Tuesday at 7 p.m. MT on TNT. The Suns will need to bring the same intensity and sense of urgency they brought tonight because Game 4 is a must-win also. I'm hoping they can make this series interesting.
In the Eastern Conference Finals the (4) Boston Celtics lead the (2) Orlando Magic 3 games to none after winning the first three games by scores of 92-88, 95-92 and 94-71. The Celtics are looking like a buzz saw right now. They are playing really good team basketball and the way they took Orlando to the wood shed last night in a game the Magic had to have was impressive. Game 4 is Monday in Boston at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. I think the Celtics will close it out with a sweep. I expect to see a lot of fans with brooms in the stands.
The Celtics play of late has been nothing short of shocking. I didn't think they would be able to beat Cleveland, but they did so and now they've taken the first three against an Orlando team that swept through the first two rounds. I thought this would be a long series with mostly close games, but it looks like it will be over Monday night. I saw an interview with Magic big man Dwight Howard on TNT tonight, and while he said his team wasn't defeated, he sounded somber and, as analyst Charles Barkley said, defeated throughout the interview. I thought the Magic had a really good team and that they would be giving Boston a much better series. They need to win Monday's game to keep their season alive.
In other NBA news, reports have surfaced that the Cavaliers indeed have decided to fire head coach Mike Brown, a development that has a surprise factor of zero to me. Brown was badly outcoached the last two years in the playoffs by Orlando's Stan Van Gundy and Boston's Doc Rivers and I thought that although the team won a lot of games in the regular season, they weren't coached well enough under Brown to win a title. They have been able to win a lot of games based largely on the sheer talent of LeBron James, but they have been lacking the coaching to get to the next level.
Sunday, May 23, 2010
Some baseball thoughts
Apologies for not updating the blog for a few days. I'm just going to shoot off some thoughts I have about baseball now, without particular regard to format. The Tampa Bay Rays (32-12) have the best record in baseball. They took both games from the New York Yankees (26-17) at Yankee Stadium this week, further solidifying themselves as the top team in the AL East at this point in the year. The Los Angeles Dodgers (25-19) are still playing really well as much as it pains me to say it, they took two of three at home from the Detroit Tigers (25-19) this weekend. Unfortunately the team on the biggest skid right now is my San Francisco Giants (22-21) who have lost five games in a row. They lost both games in a two game series to the Diamondbacks (20-25) in Phoenix this week and followed that up by being swept by their cross-bay rivals the Oakland Athletics (23-22) this weekend at the Coliseum. The Giants scored a pathetic one run in the three game series this weekend. They need to snap out of it against the Washington Nationals (23-22) at home this week starting on Tuesday.
Series to look forward to this week are the Boston Red Sox (24-21) visiting the Rays for three this week and the Yankees visiting the Minnesota Twins (26-18) for three. The Red Sox looked rather impressive taking two of three from the Philadelphia Phillies (26-17) this weekend, but the key for them is consistency and they'll have a chance to prove themselves against the Rays. The Twins look to take the momentum from the finale they won in Yankee Stadium earlier this season and show New York they can beat them regularly. That's all for now, but I'll be back for more blogging before too long. Amending this a few hours after the original posting, but I'd be sorry if I didn't tell you to keep an eye on a National League showdown this week between two teams in first place with the Cardinals (26-19, now 1/2 game ahead of the Reds in the win column) visit the Padres (26-18) for three games. Who would've thought that the Padres would have the second-best record in the National League right now? Quite the surprising story to be sure. I bet they give the Cards a good series and win a two of three.
Series to look forward to this week are the Boston Red Sox (24-21) visiting the Rays for three this week and the Yankees visiting the Minnesota Twins (26-18) for three. The Red Sox looked rather impressive taking two of three from the Philadelphia Phillies (26-17) this weekend, but the key for them is consistency and they'll have a chance to prove themselves against the Rays. The Twins look to take the momentum from the finale they won in Yankee Stadium earlier this season and show New York they can beat them regularly. That's all for now, but I'll be back for more blogging before too long. Amending this a few hours after the original posting, but I'd be sorry if I didn't tell you to keep an eye on a National League showdown this week between two teams in first place with the Cardinals (26-19, now 1/2 game ahead of the Reds in the win column) visit the Padres (26-18) for three games. Who would've thought that the Padres would have the second-best record in the National League right now? Quite the surprising story to be sure. I bet they give the Cards a good series and win a two of three.
Thursday, May 20, 2010
Hanley Ramirez dogs it 5/20/2010
Here's some Baseball Notes 5/20/2010 which will fill in for the Weekdays Review Part I and Preview Part II:
Hanley Ramirez: The star short stop of the Florida Marlins (22-19) was benched by manager Fredi Gonzalez in Monday night's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks (17-24) for jogging after a ball he kicked in the outfield and not hustling. Afterward, Ramirez refused to apologize for the incident and said he was going all out but couldn't go faster because of an injury. Considering he didn't receive any treatment before or after the game, that seems far-fetched.
And after watching the replay, he sure didn't look like he was doing anything close to hustling on the play. He said he lost a lot of respect for Gonzalez and noted that his manager didn't even play in the major leagues. Of course it's ridiculous to insinuate that Gonzalez isn't capable of managing for that reason. People can know a lot about the game without having played in the majors and can still teach others a thing or two. Ramirez just made himself look ridiculous with that statement and I was glad to see Gonzalez kept him out of the line up on Tuesday.
Ramirez offered something of an apology Wednesday, but it seemed like the way he said it he was just sorry it had gotten so much attention, not sorry for what he did. Of course I, like radio host Jim Rome, don't think Ramirez really wrote the apology anyway. Ramirez, though probably one of the at least 10 to 15 most talented players in the game, appears to be egotistical and self-centered. With all that talent, my hope is that he starts playing the game the right way and with the right attitude.
For the Review: The Texas Rangers (23-18) took a pair from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (19-23) in an early season AL West showdown. I still think the Angels will play better, but it looks like the Rangers are going to stick around for a while. The Cincinnati Reds (23-17) took a pair from the Milwaukee Brewers (15-25) to remain in first place in the NL Central despite tonight's loss to the Atlanta Braves (20-20) who were aided by a game-winning hit from rookie prodigy Jason Heyward. The Boston Red Sox (21-20) split a pair with the New York Yankees (25-15) in a wild two game series in the Bronx.
For the Second Half of Weekday Games: The Tampa Bay Rays (29-11) took the opener from the New York Yankees in the Bronx tonight 10-6. It's a match up of AL East heavyweights and I'd recommend catching the finale tomorrow on MLB Network at 5 p.m. MT. The Rays are looking awfully good and showed it again tonight. The San Diego Padres (24-16) thankfully snapped the nine game winning streak of the Los Angeles Dodgers (22-18) tonight by winning 10-5 at Dodger Stadium. It's good to see the Dodgers cool off a bit, but it looks like they're going to be a presence in the division.The second game is tomorrow night at 8:10 p.m. MT on MLB Extra Innings and mlb.tv. Kansas City (16-25)-Cleveland (15-23) and Milwaukee (15-25)-Pittsburgh (18-22) are probably the two worst series.
San Francisco Giants (22-17) Update: The Giants finally beat the Padres last night in one in 12 innings last night to win for the first time in eight tries against San Diego this season. I agree with Bruce Bochy in that the win was big for the team's psyche. Since the Giants don't play the Padres for a while, it's good that they have at least one win against them for morale purposes. Matt Downs had 2 RBI in the 12th in helping build a three run lead that Brian Wilson was just able to hold on to. I liked Bochy's quote after the game that some day Wilson will be able to walk by his grave and say that he helped put Bochy there. Funny stuff. Wilson definitely has had the flair for the dramatic lately. The Giants got smoked 13-1 tonight in Phoenix by the Diamondbacks. I guess everyone gets blown out every once in a while. Freddy Sanchez made his season debut at second base and went 0-4. Here's hoping that his return from the disabled list will be followed shortly by success. Downs moves to the bench, but I like how much promise he had been showing. Tim Lincecum goes tomorrow against the Snakes, so that's always good. Game time is 7:40 p.m. MT and is available on Fox Sports Arizona and for those of you not in my area on MLB Extra Innings and mlb.tv.
Hanley Ramirez: The star short stop of the Florida Marlins (22-19) was benched by manager Fredi Gonzalez in Monday night's game against the Arizona Diamondbacks (17-24) for jogging after a ball he kicked in the outfield and not hustling. Afterward, Ramirez refused to apologize for the incident and said he was going all out but couldn't go faster because of an injury. Considering he didn't receive any treatment before or after the game, that seems far-fetched.
And after watching the replay, he sure didn't look like he was doing anything close to hustling on the play. He said he lost a lot of respect for Gonzalez and noted that his manager didn't even play in the major leagues. Of course it's ridiculous to insinuate that Gonzalez isn't capable of managing for that reason. People can know a lot about the game without having played in the majors and can still teach others a thing or two. Ramirez just made himself look ridiculous with that statement and I was glad to see Gonzalez kept him out of the line up on Tuesday.
Ramirez offered something of an apology Wednesday, but it seemed like the way he said it he was just sorry it had gotten so much attention, not sorry for what he did. Of course I, like radio host Jim Rome, don't think Ramirez really wrote the apology anyway. Ramirez, though probably one of the at least 10 to 15 most talented players in the game, appears to be egotistical and self-centered. With all that talent, my hope is that he starts playing the game the right way and with the right attitude.
For the Review: The Texas Rangers (23-18) took a pair from the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (19-23) in an early season AL West showdown. I still think the Angels will play better, but it looks like the Rangers are going to stick around for a while. The Cincinnati Reds (23-17) took a pair from the Milwaukee Brewers (15-25) to remain in first place in the NL Central despite tonight's loss to the Atlanta Braves (20-20) who were aided by a game-winning hit from rookie prodigy Jason Heyward. The Boston Red Sox (21-20) split a pair with the New York Yankees (25-15) in a wild two game series in the Bronx.
For the Second Half of Weekday Games: The Tampa Bay Rays (29-11) took the opener from the New York Yankees in the Bronx tonight 10-6. It's a match up of AL East heavyweights and I'd recommend catching the finale tomorrow on MLB Network at 5 p.m. MT. The Rays are looking awfully good and showed it again tonight. The San Diego Padres (24-16) thankfully snapped the nine game winning streak of the Los Angeles Dodgers (22-18) tonight by winning 10-5 at Dodger Stadium. It's good to see the Dodgers cool off a bit, but it looks like they're going to be a presence in the division.The second game is tomorrow night at 8:10 p.m. MT on MLB Extra Innings and mlb.tv. Kansas City (16-25)-Cleveland (15-23) and Milwaukee (15-25)-Pittsburgh (18-22) are probably the two worst series.
San Francisco Giants (22-17) Update: The Giants finally beat the Padres last night in one in 12 innings last night to win for the first time in eight tries against San Diego this season. I agree with Bruce Bochy in that the win was big for the team's psyche. Since the Giants don't play the Padres for a while, it's good that they have at least one win against them for morale purposes. Matt Downs had 2 RBI in the 12th in helping build a three run lead that Brian Wilson was just able to hold on to. I liked Bochy's quote after the game that some day Wilson will be able to walk by his grave and say that he helped put Bochy there. Funny stuff. Wilson definitely has had the flair for the dramatic lately. The Giants got smoked 13-1 tonight in Phoenix by the Diamondbacks. I guess everyone gets blown out every once in a while. Freddy Sanchez made his season debut at second base and went 0-4. Here's hoping that his return from the disabled list will be followed shortly by success. Downs moves to the bench, but I like how much promise he had been showing. Tim Lincecum goes tomorrow against the Snakes, so that's always good. Game time is 7:40 p.m. MT and is available on Fox Sports Arizona and for those of you not in my area on MLB Extra Innings and mlb.tv.
Monday, May 17, 2010
Baseball Weekdays Preview Part I 5/17/2010
It's that one week that seems to happen every year where baseball has every team play a pair of two-game series, one on Monday and Tuesday followed by another on Wednesday and Thursday. It's really a weird thing and I don't like it much, but I'll still enjoy the baseball played anyway. As a result there will be two Weekdays Preview segments this week as well as two Reviews. Things will be back to normal next week in terms of scheduling. So here's the Baseball Weekdays Preview Part I 5/17/2010:
Most Intriguing Series: San Francisco Giants (21-15) at San Diego Padres (22-15). The Giants really need to break through against the Padres and against their division for that matter. This would be a good place to start as they are only a 1/2 game out of first place. I think this series will be a split and although it's only two games it could help the Giants to gauge where they are in relation to the Padres.
Another Intriguing Series: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (18-21) at Texas Rangers (20-18). The Rangers are still in first but just got swept by the Toronto Blue Jays (23-16). The Angels just swept the Oakland Athletics (18-20) and in my book are still the favorites to win the division. The Rangers can't afford to lose both of these games at home as that would put a big dent in their confidence to compete against the best team in the division over the past several years. I'll go with a split in this one and I bet the AL West will be quite competitive for a while. Another interesting series over the next couple of days is the Boston Red Sox (19-19) at the New York Yankees (24-13). I'll take the Yankees to win both games. Of note, Mariano Rivera was trying to break Eric Gagne's record for consecutive saves yesterday until Jason Kubel of the Minnesota Twins (23-14) hit a grand slam that enabled the Twins to salvage one game of the weekend series.
Least Intriguing Series: Kansas City Royals (14-24) at Baltimore Orioles (12-26). The Royals appear to be playing better so far under new manager Ned Yost, but both teams are once again hopelessly out of the race. I'll take the Royals to win both games.
San Francisco Giants Preview: See above.
Most Intriguing Series: San Francisco Giants (21-15) at San Diego Padres (22-15). The Giants really need to break through against the Padres and against their division for that matter. This would be a good place to start as they are only a 1/2 game out of first place. I think this series will be a split and although it's only two games it could help the Giants to gauge where they are in relation to the Padres.
Another Intriguing Series: Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (18-21) at Texas Rangers (20-18). The Rangers are still in first but just got swept by the Toronto Blue Jays (23-16). The Angels just swept the Oakland Athletics (18-20) and in my book are still the favorites to win the division. The Rangers can't afford to lose both of these games at home as that would put a big dent in their confidence to compete against the best team in the division over the past several years. I'll go with a split in this one and I bet the AL West will be quite competitive for a while. Another interesting series over the next couple of days is the Boston Red Sox (19-19) at the New York Yankees (24-13). I'll take the Yankees to win both games. Of note, Mariano Rivera was trying to break Eric Gagne's record for consecutive saves yesterday until Jason Kubel of the Minnesota Twins (23-14) hit a grand slam that enabled the Twins to salvage one game of the weekend series.
Least Intriguing Series: Kansas City Royals (14-24) at Baltimore Orioles (12-26). The Royals appear to be playing better so far under new manager Ned Yost, but both teams are once again hopelessly out of the race. I'll take the Royals to win both games.
San Francisco Giants Preview: See above.
Reds move into first 5/17/2010
At left: Bronson Arroyo and Joey Votto celebrate Sunday's win which moved the Reds into first place. Let's do the Baseball Weekend Review 5/17/2010:
Most impressive performance: The Cincinnati Reds (21-16) took two of three from the St. Louis Cardinals (21-17) to move into first place in the NL Central for the first time since 2006. The Reds have now won 7 of 8 while the Cardinals have lost 9 of 12. Bronson Arroyo pitched a complete game in Sunday's 7-2 victory and the Reds through out the tying run at the plate to end Saturday night's game. It was quite a weekend in Cincinnati. I'm surprised the Reds are playing this well and it would be really cool if they were able to keep it up. I am still sticking with the Cardinals as my pick to win the division, though. Next up for the Reds, the struggling Milwaukee Brewers (15-22).
Another impressive performance: The Los Angeles Dodgers (20-17) swept a three game series from the Padres (22-15) in San Diego. The Dodgers have now won seven games in a row and moved within two games of first place. I think they're going to be in the race to stay, while I think the Padres might be coming back to earth a little bit.
Least impressive performance: The Milwaukee Brewers completed an 0-6 homestand by getting swept by the Philadelphia Phillies (23-13). The Crew is now 4-14 at home and are underachieving so far this year. They'll need to get things turned around if they don't want significant changes made to their club. It's still not to late, but it'll be tough for them to catch the Reds and Cardinals if they don't start playing better. Also in the not so impressive category, the Oakland Athletics (18-20) were swept by the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (18-21) and have now lost five in a row.
San Francisco Giants (21-15) Weekend Review: Swept the Houston Astros (13-24). The Giants got just what they needed after getting swept by the Padres earlier in the week by getting a series with the Astros. Todd Wellemeyer, Tim Lincecum and Barry Zito all pitched well and Brian Wilson nailed down two saves to give him 9 on the year. Wilson had a couple of duels in the 9th innings of Saturday and Sunday's games with Astros second baseman Kazuo Matsui with runners on base that put fans on the edge of their seats. Wilson was able to win both battles and preserve a pair of one run wins. Aaron Rowand and Andres Torres both had solid series at the plate, with Rowand providing a couple of homers and Torres coming through with several extra base hits, including a home run into the bay yesterday. The Giants looked good, but I'm going to have to temper my enthusiasm a bit because it was just the Astros. I do think the Giants have a good team and will be in the race this year. It would really be a boost to everyone's confidence if they could win at least one game against the Padres this week.
Sunday, May 16, 2010
NHL Conference Finals get under way
The (2) Chicago Blackhawks beat the (1) San Jose Sharks 2-1 today in Game 1 of the Western Conference Finals. The Sharks nearly tied it late in the game, but couldn't push one across. I still think this will be a long, exciting series and I still think the Sharks will take it. In the Eastern Conference Finals the (7) Philadelphia Flyers routed the (8) Montreal Canadiens 6-0 in Game 1 of that series. The Flyers got to Habs goaltender Jaroslav Halak, who had been having a great postseason. They'll need him to play better in order to make a series out of it. I think Halak will play better, but I still think the Flyers will take the series. Game 2s of both series are Tuesday night with Flyers-Canadiens at 5 p.m. MT and Sharks-Blackhawks at 8 p.m. MT. Both games will be televised on Versus.
Celtics top Magic in Game 1
The (4) Boston Celtics beat the (2) Orlando Magic 92-88 in Game 1 of the Eastern Conference Finals this afternoon. Ray Allen had 25, Paul Pierce had 22 and Rasheed Wallace had 13 off the bench for the Celtics. Vince Carter had 23 for the Magic. Pierce looked really sharp during a big second half run for the Celtics and hit a number of jump shots. The Celtics look like they're going on to big things. I was going to pick the Magic to win this series in 7 games, but after today I'm going with Celtics in six.
The Western Conference Finals get under way tomorrow night with Game 1 between the (3)Suns and the (1) Lakers in Los Angeles at 7 p.m. MT. The game will be televised on TNT. I'll take the Lakers in six in this one. I really want the Suns to win, but I think the Lakers just have too much depth and Kobe Bryant will likely help them find a way to win this series. The Suns are a solid team that is playing well, though, and should make this an interesting series. Game 2 of the Magic and Celtics is Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com.
The Western Conference Finals get under way tomorrow night with Game 1 between the (3)Suns and the (1) Lakers in Los Angeles at 7 p.m. MT. The game will be televised on TNT. I'll take the Lakers in six in this one. I really want the Suns to win, but I think the Lakers just have too much depth and Kobe Bryant will likely help them find a way to win this series. The Suns are a solid team that is playing well, though, and should make this an interesting series. Game 2 of the Magic and Celtics is Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com.
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Flyers win, seal Bruins collapse
The Philadelphia Flyers became the third team in NHL history and the first since 1975 to overcome a 3-0 series deficit tonight by beating the Boston Bruins 4-3 in Game 7 in Boston. The Bruins led the game tonight 3-0. It was an impressive comeback; you don't see stuff like this very often. It's pretty cool, I'm pretty amazed on two levels, that the Flyers were able to come back to win the series, and that the Bruins managed to lose it. It has to be characterized as a collapse for Boston when you blow a 3-0 goal lead in Game 7 on your home ice. Not to mention that the winning Flyers goal came on a power play that resulted from a too many men on the ice penalty in the third period. You simply can't have a penalty like that at that point in the game. But I think it's pretty cool for the Flyers, they definitely showed a lot of resiliency.
The Eastern Conference Finals now features a 7-8 matchup between the Flyers and the 8-seeded Montreal Canadiens who won a Game 7 in Pittsburgh on Wednesday. Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury was very poor and the Habs built a four goal lead early in the second period that was too much for the Penguins to overcome. The Western Conference Finals is quite the opposite with all chalk, it's the top-seed San Jose Sharks against the two-seed Chicago Blackhawks. My prediction is that it will be Sharks-Flyers in the Stanley Cup Finals with the Sharks taking home the Cup.
The Eastern Conference Finals now features a 7-8 matchup between the Flyers and the 8-seeded Montreal Canadiens who won a Game 7 in Pittsburgh on Wednesday. Penguins goaltender Marc-Andre Fleury was very poor and the Habs built a four goal lead early in the second period that was too much for the Penguins to overcome. The Western Conference Finals is quite the opposite with all chalk, it's the top-seed San Jose Sharks against the two-seed Chicago Blackhawks. My prediction is that it will be Sharks-Flyers in the Stanley Cup Finals with the Sharks taking home the Cup.
Friday, May 14, 2010
Baseball Notes 5/14/2010
Here's some baseball notes for 5/14/2010:
Impressive: The San Diego Padres (22-13) swept my San Francisco Giants (19-15) at AT&T Park this week. The Padres are surprising everyone and are in first in the NL West. They've won all six games against the Giants so far this year. They look like the better team right now. The Giants get another chance with a series next week.
Also Impressive: The Cincinnati Reds (19-16) have been playing some good baseball, they've won 7 of 10 and had won five straight before dropping their series opener to the St. Louis Cardinals (21-15) tonight.
Not Impressive: The Arizona Diamondbacks (14-22) have lost 7 straight after losing in walk-off fashion to the Braves (17-18) tonight. As far as I can tell the Snakes have the worst bullpen in baseball. It seems like they're always either giving up leads or allowing the opposing teams to put the game out of reach.
This Weekend: The Giants are hosting the Astros (13-22) and took the opener 8-2 tonight in San Francisco. Lincecum and Zito go the next two days so I'm optimistic about getting a sweep. Good series to check out if you get the chance are Twins (22-13) at Yankees (23-12) with both teams off to very solid starts and facing off in a rematch of last year's ALDS. A-Rod had a big grand slam in the Yankees taking the opener tonight. Another good one is the Reds and Cardinals, the Reds have a chance to show that they're for real (well at least a little at this time of year) and have been surprising. They're only a game and a half out of first place in the NL Central. As for the worst of the weekend it's either White Sox (14-21)-Royals (13-23) or Cubs (15-21)-Pirates (15-20). The White Sox have been disappointing and the Royals have really, really struggled and just fired manager Trey Hillman in favor of former Brewers skipper Ned Yost. The Cubs are down so far this year despite a big payroll and the Pirates have been showing some signs of life lately, at least by their standards.
Impressive: The San Diego Padres (22-13) swept my San Francisco Giants (19-15) at AT&T Park this week. The Padres are surprising everyone and are in first in the NL West. They've won all six games against the Giants so far this year. They look like the better team right now. The Giants get another chance with a series next week.
Also Impressive: The Cincinnati Reds (19-16) have been playing some good baseball, they've won 7 of 10 and had won five straight before dropping their series opener to the St. Louis Cardinals (21-15) tonight.
Not Impressive: The Arizona Diamondbacks (14-22) have lost 7 straight after losing in walk-off fashion to the Braves (17-18) tonight. As far as I can tell the Snakes have the worst bullpen in baseball. It seems like they're always either giving up leads or allowing the opposing teams to put the game out of reach.
This Weekend: The Giants are hosting the Astros (13-22) and took the opener 8-2 tonight in San Francisco. Lincecum and Zito go the next two days so I'm optimistic about getting a sweep. Good series to check out if you get the chance are Twins (22-13) at Yankees (23-12) with both teams off to very solid starts and facing off in a rematch of last year's ALDS. A-Rod had a big grand slam in the Yankees taking the opener tonight. Another good one is the Reds and Cardinals, the Reds have a chance to show that they're for real (well at least a little at this time of year) and have been surprising. They're only a game and a half out of first place in the NL Central. As for the worst of the weekend it's either White Sox (14-21)-Royals (13-23) or Cubs (15-21)-Pirates (15-20). The White Sox have been disappointing and the Royals have really, really struggled and just fired manager Trey Hillman in favor of former Brewers skipper Ned Yost. The Cubs are down so far this year despite a big payroll and the Pirates have been showing some signs of life lately, at least by their standards.
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Cavaliers experience home debacle
The (4) Boston Celtics blew out the (1) Cleveland Cavaliers 120-88 last night at Quicken Loans Arena in Cleveland in Game 5 of their Eastern Conference Semi-final series. The Celtics now lead the series 3 games to 2. Ray Allen had 25 for the Celtics including 6 3-pointers, Paul Pierce had 21 points, 11 rebounds, and 7 assists, Kevin Garnett had 18 points and 6 rebounds, and Rajon Rondo had 16 points and 7 assists for Boston. Glen Davis also chipped in 15 points in 21 minutes off the bench. When you look at these numbers, you see what an all around effort it really was for the Celtics. Cleveland was led by Shaquille O'Neal with 21 points, LeBron James with 15 and Anthony Parker with 14.
The big story of the game was how ineffective LeBron James was. He didn't make his first field goal until midway through the 3rd quarter and had only 3 for the entire game. As aptly noted on television, he just didn't appear to be aggressive and never got into much of a rhythm. I think Cleveland is in a lot of trouble, it doesn't appear as if they have much of an offensive scheme other than "Let's give LeBron the ball and hope something good happens." To be fair, a lot of times good things do happen with that strategy, but it's not as sound as a solid system is.
I think Cavaliers coach Mike Brown was outcoached last year in the Conference Finals by Stan Van Gundy of Orlando last year and I think he has been outcoached in this series by Doc Rivers, accounting for the series looking the way it does now. James is a good player, but he would benefit from better coaching and a better system around him. The Celtics have a number of really good players and good coaching to help harness their abilities for the betterment of the team. The Magic have fewer really good players than the Celtics, but have a lot of good players and a good coach who gets them to play team basketball. Good coaching is a big deal this time of year in the NBA and I think that will carry the Celtics to a series victory tomorrow night in Game 6 at the TD Garden. That game starts at 6 p.m. MT and is on ESPN and espn3.com.
The big story of the game was how ineffective LeBron James was. He didn't make his first field goal until midway through the 3rd quarter and had only 3 for the entire game. As aptly noted on television, he just didn't appear to be aggressive and never got into much of a rhythm. I think Cleveland is in a lot of trouble, it doesn't appear as if they have much of an offensive scheme other than "Let's give LeBron the ball and hope something good happens." To be fair, a lot of times good things do happen with that strategy, but it's not as sound as a solid system is.
I think Cavaliers coach Mike Brown was outcoached last year in the Conference Finals by Stan Van Gundy of Orlando last year and I think he has been outcoached in this series by Doc Rivers, accounting for the series looking the way it does now. James is a good player, but he would benefit from better coaching and a better system around him. The Celtics have a number of really good players and good coaching to help harness their abilities for the betterment of the team. The Magic have fewer really good players than the Celtics, but have a lot of good players and a good coach who gets them to play team basketball. Good coaching is a big deal this time of year in the NBA and I think that will carry the Celtics to a series victory tomorrow night in Game 6 at the TD Garden. That game starts at 6 p.m. MT and is on ESPN and espn3.com.
Pens-Habs Game 7 tonight
SportsCenter's Neil Everett has often said that the two most exciting words in sports are "Game 7." And I have to admit, those two words excite me a lot. Tonight it's Game 7 between the (4) Pittsburgh Penguins and the (8) Montreal Canadiens in the NHL from Mellon Arena in Pittsburgh. The game starts at 5 p.m. MT and will be broadcast on Versus. The Canadiens have the most championships in the history of the NHL, but have not made a lot of noise in the playoffs in recent years. Goaltender Jaroslav Halak has been the key to the Habs' cinderella like playoff run as the 8 seed and he'll have to have another great game in net for Montreal to move on. I think the Penguins, led by Sidney Crosby and Evgeni Malkin will pull out the victory, however. The Penguins won two Game 7s on the road last year and I think their experience will push them to victory. I think the pressure is more on Pittsburgh, but I think they will handle it -- they won the Stanley Cup last year for a reason.
Last night the Blackhawks beat the Canucks 5-1 in Vancouver to take the series 4-2. That sets up a match-up in the Western Conference Finals between the (1) San Jose Sharks and the (2) Chicago Blackhawks. It should be a high-octane series and I'm excited to see who wins. I think the Sharks will come out on top; I think a lot of pressure was lifted from them when they won their first round series. Also tonight is Game 6 of the other Eastern Conference semi-final series between the (6) Boston Bruins and (7) Philadelphia Flyers. The game starts at 6 p.m. MT from Philadelphia and is available via NHL Center Ice. It will be joined in progress on Versus following the Penguins-Canadiens game. The Flyers lost the first three games of the series but have trimmed the deficit to 3-2 and have a chance to square things up at home tonight.
Last night the Blackhawks beat the Canucks 5-1 in Vancouver to take the series 4-2. That sets up a match-up in the Western Conference Finals between the (1) San Jose Sharks and the (2) Chicago Blackhawks. It should be a high-octane series and I'm excited to see who wins. I think the Sharks will come out on top; I think a lot of pressure was lifted from them when they won their first round series. Also tonight is Game 6 of the other Eastern Conference semi-final series between the (6) Boston Bruins and (7) Philadelphia Flyers. The game starts at 6 p.m. MT from Philadelphia and is available via NHL Center Ice. It will be joined in progress on Versus following the Penguins-Canadiens game. The Flyers lost the first three games of the series but have trimmed the deficit to 3-2 and have a chance to square things up at home tonight.
Monday, May 10, 2010
Jazz swept by Lakers
The Los Angeles Lakers beat the Utah Jazz 111-96 tonight to win the best-of-seven series four games to none. The Lakers move on to the Western Conference Finals where they will host the Phoenix Suns in Game 1 next Monday. Pau Gasol scored 33 points and had 14 rebounds while Kobe Bryant added 32. Shannon Brown had 12 points off the bench including a couple of big threes. Deron Williams and Paul Millsap had 21 points each for the Jazz and C.J. Miles had 15.
The Lakers size was just too much of a problem all series as the Jazz couldn't figure out how to deal with Gasol as well as Lamar Odom and of course Bryant was big. Tonight there were too many turnovers and missed free throws in the first half. I thought the Jazz should have won at least a game or two and had the talent to do it, but just didn't play up to it, especially tonight. They had their chances and played pretty well in the first three games but didn't tonight. Hopefully the Suns can give the Lakers a good run and win that series. We'll see what happens.
Earlier in the night, the Orlando Magic finished off the Atlanta Hawks 98-84 to sweep that series. The Hawks lost each game by an average of over 25 points. I don't remember ever seeing a team perform as poorly over the course of a series as Atlanta did in this one. They should be embarrassed. The Magic will face the winner of the Cleveland-Boston series in the Eastern Conference Finals.
The Lakers size was just too much of a problem all series as the Jazz couldn't figure out how to deal with Gasol as well as Lamar Odom and of course Bryant was big. Tonight there were too many turnovers and missed free throws in the first half. I thought the Jazz should have won at least a game or two and had the talent to do it, but just didn't play up to it, especially tonight. They had their chances and played pretty well in the first three games but didn't tonight. Hopefully the Suns can give the Lakers a good run and win that series. We'll see what happens.
Earlier in the night, the Orlando Magic finished off the Atlanta Hawks 98-84 to sweep that series. The Hawks lost each game by an average of over 25 points. I don't remember ever seeing a team perform as poorly over the course of a series as Atlanta did in this one. They should be embarrassed. The Magic will face the winner of the Cleveland-Boston series in the Eastern Conference Finals.
Jazz try to avoid sweep tonight
The Utah Jazz host the Los Angeles Lakers in Game 4 of the NBA Western Conference Semifinals tonight at 8:30 p.m. MT on TNT. The Lakers lead the series 3 games to none. The Jazz need to put it together tonight, obviously, and the keys are to not miss so many free throws as well as limit Kobe Bryant and the Laker big men. Game 3 was a gut-wrenching loss so it's important for the Jazz to get off to a good start tonight. I'll be watching to see how it goes.
Here's how the other series look:
(1) Cleveland Cavliers tied with (4) Boston Celtics 2-2
(2) Orlando Magic lead (3) Atlanta Hawks 3-0
(3) Phoenix Suns beat (7) San Antonio Spurs 4-0
I was really impressed with the Suns getting the sweep, I didn't think that would happen. Steve Nash also had a really gutty performance, playing the 4th quarter with one of his eyes almost swollen shut after receiving an inadvertant elbow from Tim Duncan. The Suns will be a tough out in the Conference Finals. The Hawks have lost all three games by an average of over 20 points and I'm surprised how bad they have looked. They are down by double digits tonight as well in Game 4. Here's the rest of the schedule for the next couple of days:
Tonight:
Game 4 -- (2) Orlando Magic 69, (3) Atlanta Hawks 56, 3:41 remaining in 3rd quarter (TNT)
Tomorrow:
Game 5 -- (4) Boston Celtics at (1) Cleveland Cavaliers, 6 p.m. MT (Series tied 2-2, TNT)
Here's how the other series look:
(1) Cleveland Cavliers tied with (4) Boston Celtics 2-2
(2) Orlando Magic lead (3) Atlanta Hawks 3-0
(3) Phoenix Suns beat (7) San Antonio Spurs 4-0
I was really impressed with the Suns getting the sweep, I didn't think that would happen. Steve Nash also had a really gutty performance, playing the 4th quarter with one of his eyes almost swollen shut after receiving an inadvertant elbow from Tim Duncan. The Suns will be a tough out in the Conference Finals. The Hawks have lost all three games by an average of over 20 points and I'm surprised how bad they have looked. They are down by double digits tonight as well in Game 4. Here's the rest of the schedule for the next couple of days:
Tonight:
Game 4 -- (2) Orlando Magic 69, (3) Atlanta Hawks 56, 3:41 remaining in 3rd quarter (TNT)
Tomorrow:
Game 5 -- (4) Boston Celtics at (1) Cleveland Cavaliers, 6 p.m. MT (Series tied 2-2, TNT)
Giants host Padres in big series 5/10/2010
Here's the Baseball Weekdays Preview 5/10/2010:
Most intriguing series: San Diego Padres (19-12) at San Francisco Giants (18-12) Tuesday through Thursday. It's a series for first place in the NL West that most people wouldn't have predicted would have such high stakes before the season started. I'm pretty excited for it and I think the Giants will take two of three at home. Barry Zito goes in the opener tomorrow night and I think he'll keep rolling.
Another intriguing series: In another similarly high stakes series that wouldn't have been predicted the Oakland Athletics (17-15) visit the Texas Rangers (18-14) Tuesday through Thursday in a battle for first in the AL West. The A's are riding high following Dallas Braden's perfect game, but I think the Rangers, who are 11-6 at home and have won four in a row overall, will take two of three in this series. Also Philadelphia (19-12) visits Colorado (15-16) in a rematch of last year's NLDS and Tampa Bay (22-9) visits the LA Angels (14-19) in a match-up of my division favorites. And as for the other NL West series it's the Dodgers (14-17) visiting the Diamondbacks (14-18) for three games.
Least intriguing series: Cleveland Indians (11-18) at Kansas City Royals (11-21) Tuesday through Thursday. These two are off to rough starts and aren't going to make the playoffs. I think the Royals will take two of three. Hopefully they will do that and start playing better baseball.
San Francisco Giants (18-12) Weekdays Preview: See above.
Most intriguing series: San Diego Padres (19-12) at San Francisco Giants (18-12) Tuesday through Thursday. It's a series for first place in the NL West that most people wouldn't have predicted would have such high stakes before the season started. I'm pretty excited for it and I think the Giants will take two of three at home. Barry Zito goes in the opener tomorrow night and I think he'll keep rolling.
Another intriguing series: In another similarly high stakes series that wouldn't have been predicted the Oakland Athletics (17-15) visit the Texas Rangers (18-14) Tuesday through Thursday in a battle for first in the AL West. The A's are riding high following Dallas Braden's perfect game, but I think the Rangers, who are 11-6 at home and have won four in a row overall, will take two of three in this series. Also Philadelphia (19-12) visits Colorado (15-16) in a rematch of last year's NLDS and Tampa Bay (22-9) visits the LA Angels (14-19) in a match-up of my division favorites. And as for the other NL West series it's the Dodgers (14-17) visiting the Diamondbacks (14-18) for three games.
Least intriguing series: Cleveland Indians (11-18) at Kansas City Royals (11-21) Tuesday through Thursday. These two are off to rough starts and aren't going to make the playoffs. I think the Royals will take two of three. Hopefully they will do that and start playing better baseball.
San Francisco Giants (18-12) Weekdays Preview: See above.
Baseball Weekend Review 5/10/2010
Here's the Baseball Weekend Review 5/10/2010:
Most impressive performance: The Oakland Athletics (17-15) took two of three from the Tampa Bay Rays (22-9) at the Coliseum this weekend, highlighted by Dallas Braden's perfect game, as detailed below. The A's were impressive in winning a series against the team with the best record in baseball and are one game back of the Texas Rangers (18-14) in the AL West. I'm starting to think the A's can stay in the race for a while.
Another impressive performance: The New York Yankees (21-9) taking two of three from the Boston Red Sox (16-16) at Fenway Park. The Yankees and the Rays are fast making the AL East a two-team race, with the second place team appearing to be destined for the AL Wild Card berth. I thought the Red Sox were snapping out of their funk, but were completely embarrassed on Friday and Saturday before pounding the Yanks in turn for a much needed win last night. I think the Yankees showed they are the better team at this point in the season (as hard as that is for me to say). The Red Sox need to turn things around.
Least impressive performance: The Arizona Diamondbacks (14-18) getting swept at home by the Milwaukee Brewers (15-16) by scores of 3-2, 17-3 and 6-1. The Brewers sure have scored runs in bunches this year and that happened again Saturday, but they need more consistency from their offense, but more especially from their pitching to be a factor in the NL Central. The Diamondbacks gave truly sorry performances Saturday and Sunday at Chase Field and I don't think they have anywhere near enough to stay in the NL West race.
San Francisco Giants (18-12) Weekend Review: The Giants lost two of three to the New York Mets (17-14) at Citi Field. They lost on walk-off shots on Friday and Saturday by Rod Barajas and Henry Blanco, so those were tough ones to swallow. They did manage to salvage the finale and end the Mets' lengthy home winning streak yesterday, when Aaron Rowand hit a wind-aided home run (his 4th of the year) to give the Giants a 6-5 lead in the 8th. They would win by that score as Brian Wilson nailed down a five out save (his 7th), striking out five of the six hitters he faced. The Giants lost a couple of tough ones but I'm encouraged that they were able to take one and finish the road trip 4-2. I'd say it was an overall successful road trip. Other NL West series this weekend involved the aforementioned Diamondbacks as well as the Dodgers (14-17) taking two of three from the Rockies (15-16) and the Padres (19-12) taking two of three from the Astros (10-21) in Houston. The Giants are gearing up for a big match-up with the first place Padres this week at AT&T Park.
Most impressive performance: The Oakland Athletics (17-15) took two of three from the Tampa Bay Rays (22-9) at the Coliseum this weekend, highlighted by Dallas Braden's perfect game, as detailed below. The A's were impressive in winning a series against the team with the best record in baseball and are one game back of the Texas Rangers (18-14) in the AL West. I'm starting to think the A's can stay in the race for a while.
Another impressive performance: The New York Yankees (21-9) taking two of three from the Boston Red Sox (16-16) at Fenway Park. The Yankees and the Rays are fast making the AL East a two-team race, with the second place team appearing to be destined for the AL Wild Card berth. I thought the Red Sox were snapping out of their funk, but were completely embarrassed on Friday and Saturday before pounding the Yanks in turn for a much needed win last night. I think the Yankees showed they are the better team at this point in the season (as hard as that is for me to say). The Red Sox need to turn things around.
Least impressive performance: The Arizona Diamondbacks (14-18) getting swept at home by the Milwaukee Brewers (15-16) by scores of 3-2, 17-3 and 6-1. The Brewers sure have scored runs in bunches this year and that happened again Saturday, but they need more consistency from their offense, but more especially from their pitching to be a factor in the NL Central. The Diamondbacks gave truly sorry performances Saturday and Sunday at Chase Field and I don't think they have anywhere near enough to stay in the NL West race.
San Francisco Giants (18-12) Weekend Review: The Giants lost two of three to the New York Mets (17-14) at Citi Field. They lost on walk-off shots on Friday and Saturday by Rod Barajas and Henry Blanco, so those were tough ones to swallow. They did manage to salvage the finale and end the Mets' lengthy home winning streak yesterday, when Aaron Rowand hit a wind-aided home run (his 4th of the year) to give the Giants a 6-5 lead in the 8th. They would win by that score as Brian Wilson nailed down a five out save (his 7th), striking out five of the six hitters he faced. The Giants lost a couple of tough ones but I'm encouraged that they were able to take one and finish the road trip 4-2. I'd say it was an overall successful road trip. Other NL West series this weekend involved the aforementioned Diamondbacks as well as the Dodgers (14-17) taking two of three from the Rockies (15-16) and the Padres (19-12) taking two of three from the Astros (10-21) in Houston. The Giants are gearing up for a big match-up with the first place Padres this week at AT&T Park.
Sunday, May 9, 2010
Athletics pitcher Braden throws perfect game
Oakland Athletics pitcher Dallas Braden pitched a perfect game on Sunday afternoon at the Coliseum against the Tampa Bay Rays (22-9). The Athletics (17-15) won the game by a score of 4-0. It was the 19th perfect game in the history of baseball. When you think of how long baseball has been around -- for well over a century -- and how many games are played (now over 2,400 each year) it shows how rare an achievement that is. It's the first perfect game since Mark Buehrle of the White Sox did it last season, ironically also against the Rays.
I was fortunate enough to be able to catch the end of the game on television and I'm just glad I got to see the ninth inning. I was nervous just watching, I can only imagine how Braden (4-2, 3.33 ERA) must have felt. It's just a really, really cool thing. I really enjoyed seeing Braden getting mobbed by his teammates in a big celebration following the game, as pictured above. In a perfect game, it's not just not allowing a hit, but there have to be no walks and no errors, so the defense has to play everything perfectly as well. Braden said as much after the game, "It's without a doubt a team effort. You got eight guys chasing balls and knocking balls down for me. So this is ours, not just mine, this is ours."
It's also significant that Braden tossed his perfect game on Mother's Day. His mom passed away due to skin cancer while he was in high school, and Braden pointed to the sky after the game which appeared to be in acknowledgment of his late mom. Braden's grandma, with whom he has a great relationship, was at the game and the two exchanged a long emotional embrace after the game. Speaking of Mother's Day Braden said, "It hasn't been a joyous day for me in a while. With my grandma in the stands it makes it a lot better." In a post game interview on television Braden said that his grandma deserved something like this. It also kind of made me chuckle when I could hear Braden say to his grandma after they embraced something like "Let's eat." It was just really cool stuff all around.
Braden has been in the news recently for getting into it with New York Yankees third baseman Alex Rodriguez after the latter walked across the pitcher's mound in a game Braden started earlier this season. The two exchanged words and then have since been involved in a battle via the media, with Braden essentially saying that A-Rod is incredibly self-centered and conceited (something with which I don't disagree at all) and Rodriguez firing back basically saying Braden is a nobody (he is only 26 and has won 18 games in his career now). This last week A-Rod said he wasn't going to comment on the situation anymore because he didn't want to extend Braden's 15 minutes of fame. After the game Braden's grandma said "Stick it, A-Rod." I thought that was pretty funny and I think Braden showed he is the real deal today and should have a successful career. Rodriguez may just have to get used to that.
Friday, May 7, 2010
Baseball Weekend Preview 5/7/2010
Here's the Baseball Weekend Preview 5/7/2010:
Most intriguing series: Tampa Bay Rays (21-7) at Oakland Athletics (15-14). The Rays continue their west coast trip with a visit to the AL West leaders. The Athletics can make a statement about potential staying power by winning this series but I think the Rays are too good and take two of three.
Another intriguing series: New York Yankees (19-8) at Boston Red Sox (15-14) from Fenway Park this weekend. The Red Sox could go a long way in gaining momentum for their series by winning this series against their hated rival. I'll say Boston continues to play well and takes two of three.
Least intriguing series: St. Louis Cardinals (18-11) at Pittsburgh Pirates (13-15). This just looks like a classic mismatch even if the Pirates are coming off three straight wins over the Chicago Cubs (13-16). I think the Cardinals sweep, but it will be interesting to see if the Bucs can continue their momentum.
San Francisco Giants (17-10) Weekend Preview: The Giants will be at Citi Field for three games against the New York Mets (15-13). The Giants are playing really well and the Mets have cooled off a bit since their hot streak, so I'll take the Giants two out of three, which would make for an excellent road trip. The bottom of the rotation is starting off the series, but I think they'll have enough to win the series with Lincecum going in the finale on Sunday. The Giants have a big home series with second place San Diego (17-11) coming up next week. The Padres are in Houston (9-19) this weekend. In other NL West action this weekend the Rockies (14-14) visit the Dodgers (12-16) and the Brewers (12-16) visit the desert to take on the Diamondbacks (14-15).
Most intriguing series: Tampa Bay Rays (21-7) at Oakland Athletics (15-14). The Rays continue their west coast trip with a visit to the AL West leaders. The Athletics can make a statement about potential staying power by winning this series but I think the Rays are too good and take two of three.
Another intriguing series: New York Yankees (19-8) at Boston Red Sox (15-14) from Fenway Park this weekend. The Red Sox could go a long way in gaining momentum for their series by winning this series against their hated rival. I'll say Boston continues to play well and takes two of three.
Least intriguing series: St. Louis Cardinals (18-11) at Pittsburgh Pirates (13-15). This just looks like a classic mismatch even if the Pirates are coming off three straight wins over the Chicago Cubs (13-16). I think the Cardinals sweep, but it will be interesting to see if the Bucs can continue their momentum.
San Francisco Giants (17-10) Weekend Preview: The Giants will be at Citi Field for three games against the New York Mets (15-13). The Giants are playing really well and the Mets have cooled off a bit since their hot streak, so I'll take the Giants two out of three, which would make for an excellent road trip. The bottom of the rotation is starting off the series, but I think they'll have enough to win the series with Lincecum going in the finale on Sunday. The Giants have a big home series with second place San Diego (17-11) coming up next week. The Padres are in Houston (9-19) this weekend. In other NL West action this weekend the Rockies (14-14) visit the Dodgers (12-16) and the Brewers (12-16) visit the desert to take on the Diamondbacks (14-15).
Baseball Weekdays Review 5/7/2010
Here's the Baseball Weekdays Review 5/7/2010:
Most impressive performance: Philadelphia Phillies (17-11) taking three of four from the St. Louis Cardinals (18-11) in a possible playoff preview in the city of brotherly love. The Phils dropped the opener, but like they did against the Mets (15-13) over the weekend, they sent a message that they're still the team to beat in the National League. It looks like both teams are going to be here to stay this year.
Another impressive performance: The Boston Red Sox (15-14) bouncing back from their weekend sweep in Baltimore (8-21) with a convincing four-game sweep of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (12-18) at Fenway Park. Was this really the same team that we saw last weekend in Baltimore? These Red Sox looked like the championship caliber version of a few years ago and if they can keep this up they will be in the race. I said they needed to start playing better right away and this was a good start. We'll see if they can keep it up. I was also impressed with the Tampa Bay Rays (21-7) sweep of the Mariners (11-17) in the Pacific Northwest. The Rays continue to impress and aren't showing signs of slowing down. The Mariners have lost six in a row.
Least impressive performance: The Houston Astros (9-19) losing three of four at home to the Arizona Diamondbacks (14-15). The Astros have lost nine of their last ten. The Snakes are still ahead of the last place Los Angeles Dodgers (12-16) in the NL West. It feels good to type those words so I'll do it again: last place Los Angeles Dodgers.
San Francisco Giants (17-10) Weekdays Review: Here are some more words that feel good to type: first place San Francisco Giants. And they are there following a three game sweep of the Florida Marlins (13-15) in Miami, winning by scores of 9-6, 3-2 and 6-3. The Giants starting pitchers were amazing, with Tim Lincecum, Barry Zito and Matt Cain allowing a combined 6 runs in 21 innings pitched in the three games. Aaron Rowand, fresh off the disabled list, is really bringing it. He hit a game-tying home run with two outs in the ninth on Tuesday and was solid the entire series, including a couple of RBIs last night and a nice catch in center field. My favorite moment of the series though, was reliever Sergio Romo bouncing back from a tough outing Tuesday to get out of a bases loaded, nobody out jam inherited from Zito on Wednesday by striking out Hanley Ramirez and inducing a double play ball. It was a big-time performance and showed Romo's resilience. I think the Giants bullpen is quite solid as well. Here's what Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez had to say following the series finale last night: "We probably faced the toughest pitching staff as a whole, starters and bullpen. The old saying that good pitching beats good hitting -- you saw it this series."
Most impressive performance: Philadelphia Phillies (17-11) taking three of four from the St. Louis Cardinals (18-11) in a possible playoff preview in the city of brotherly love. The Phils dropped the opener, but like they did against the Mets (15-13) over the weekend, they sent a message that they're still the team to beat in the National League. It looks like both teams are going to be here to stay this year.
Another impressive performance: The Boston Red Sox (15-14) bouncing back from their weekend sweep in Baltimore (8-21) with a convincing four-game sweep of the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim (12-18) at Fenway Park. Was this really the same team that we saw last weekend in Baltimore? These Red Sox looked like the championship caliber version of a few years ago and if they can keep this up they will be in the race. I said they needed to start playing better right away and this was a good start. We'll see if they can keep it up. I was also impressed with the Tampa Bay Rays (21-7) sweep of the Mariners (11-17) in the Pacific Northwest. The Rays continue to impress and aren't showing signs of slowing down. The Mariners have lost six in a row.
Least impressive performance: The Houston Astros (9-19) losing three of four at home to the Arizona Diamondbacks (14-15). The Astros have lost nine of their last ten. The Snakes are still ahead of the last place Los Angeles Dodgers (12-16) in the NL West. It feels good to type those words so I'll do it again: last place Los Angeles Dodgers.
San Francisco Giants (17-10) Weekdays Review: Here are some more words that feel good to type: first place San Francisco Giants. And they are there following a three game sweep of the Florida Marlins (13-15) in Miami, winning by scores of 9-6, 3-2 and 6-3. The Giants starting pitchers were amazing, with Tim Lincecum, Barry Zito and Matt Cain allowing a combined 6 runs in 21 innings pitched in the three games. Aaron Rowand, fresh off the disabled list, is really bringing it. He hit a game-tying home run with two outs in the ninth on Tuesday and was solid the entire series, including a couple of RBIs last night and a nice catch in center field. My favorite moment of the series though, was reliever Sergio Romo bouncing back from a tough outing Tuesday to get out of a bases loaded, nobody out jam inherited from Zito on Wednesday by striking out Hanley Ramirez and inducing a double play ball. It was a big-time performance and showed Romo's resilience. I think the Giants bullpen is quite solid as well. Here's what Marlins manager Fredi Gonzalez had to say following the series finale last night: "We probably faced the toughest pitching staff as a whole, starters and bullpen. The old saying that good pitching beats good hitting -- you saw it this series."
Monday, May 3, 2010
Baseball Notes 5/3/2010
Again still finals going on, so I'll abbreviate my notes and have this double as the Weekend Review and Weekdays Preview:
Most impressive performance: Philadelphia Phillies (14-11) taking two of three at home from the streaking New York Mets (14-11). The Phillies made a statement saying they're still the team to beat in the division, taking the last two games convincingly. Saturday Roy Halladay pitched a complete game shut-out and last night the Phils roughed up Johan Santana who gave up a career worst 10 earned runs. A sign held up by a woman at the game last night that was pretty funny (directed at Phillies 2nd baseman Chase Utley): "Chase my boyfriend loves you... It's awkward"
Another impressive performance: The Detroit Tigers (16-10) sweeping the Angels (12-14) at Comerica Park. The Tigers now trail the Twins in the AL Central by only a half-game. Despite the sweep, the Angels are only a game and a half back in the AL West.
Least impressive performance: The Boston Red Sox (11-14) getting swept by the Baltimore Orioles (7-19). The Red Sox are in fourth place in the AL East and trail the first place Tampa Bay Rays (18-7) by 7 games. They need to start playing better if they want to get back in the race. It could be tough for them to make the playoffs. They're playing well tonight, though, leading the Angels 17-4 in the 7th inning.
Most intriguing series: St. Louis (18-8) at Philadelphia (14-11) tonight through Thursday. The Cards won the opener tonight 6-3. Interesting series between two of last year's playoff teams and two division favorites this year.
Another intriguing series: Tampa Bay (18-7) at Seattle (11-14) Tuesday through Thursday. The AL East leaders against another playoff hopeful, featuring recently reactivated pitcher Cliff Lee.
Least intriguing series: Arizona (11-14) at Houston (8-16). Two teams not destined for the playoffs square off as the Diamondbacks try to stay out of the NL West cellar.
San Francisco Giants (14-10): Took two out three from the Colorado Rockies (12-13) capping a 6-3 home stand in which they took two out of three from three playoff teams (also Cardinals and Phillies). Now at the Florida Marlins (13-12) Tuesday through Thursday. This will be a key series to see if they can take it on the road. Tim Lincecum starts the road trip off tomorrow night for the Orange and Black. It's a six game trip featuring a trip to Queens for three games with the New York Mets. A 3-3 trip would be decent, but for it to be good it'd have to be 4-2.
Most impressive performance: Philadelphia Phillies (14-11) taking two of three at home from the streaking New York Mets (14-11). The Phillies made a statement saying they're still the team to beat in the division, taking the last two games convincingly. Saturday Roy Halladay pitched a complete game shut-out and last night the Phils roughed up Johan Santana who gave up a career worst 10 earned runs. A sign held up by a woman at the game last night that was pretty funny (directed at Phillies 2nd baseman Chase Utley): "Chase my boyfriend loves you... It's awkward"
Another impressive performance: The Detroit Tigers (16-10) sweeping the Angels (12-14) at Comerica Park. The Tigers now trail the Twins in the AL Central by only a half-game. Despite the sweep, the Angels are only a game and a half back in the AL West.
Least impressive performance: The Boston Red Sox (11-14) getting swept by the Baltimore Orioles (7-19). The Red Sox are in fourth place in the AL East and trail the first place Tampa Bay Rays (18-7) by 7 games. They need to start playing better if they want to get back in the race. It could be tough for them to make the playoffs. They're playing well tonight, though, leading the Angels 17-4 in the 7th inning.
Most intriguing series: St. Louis (18-8) at Philadelphia (14-11) tonight through Thursday. The Cards won the opener tonight 6-3. Interesting series between two of last year's playoff teams and two division favorites this year.
Another intriguing series: Tampa Bay (18-7) at Seattle (11-14) Tuesday through Thursday. The AL East leaders against another playoff hopeful, featuring recently reactivated pitcher Cliff Lee.
Least intriguing series: Arizona (11-14) at Houston (8-16). Two teams not destined for the playoffs square off as the Diamondbacks try to stay out of the NL West cellar.
San Francisco Giants (14-10): Took two out three from the Colorado Rockies (12-13) capping a 6-3 home stand in which they took two out of three from three playoff teams (also Cardinals and Phillies). Now at the Florida Marlins (13-12) Tuesday through Thursday. This will be a key series to see if they can take it on the road. Tim Lincecum starts the road trip off tomorrow night for the Orange and Black. It's a six game trip featuring a trip to Queens for three games with the New York Mets. A 3-3 trip would be decent, but for it to be good it'd have to be 4-2.
Hockey thoughts
The (1) San Jose Sharks beat the (5) Detroit Red Wings 4-3 in Game 2 of their second round series last night in San Jose. The Sharks lead the series 2-0. I thought the Sharks responded to adversity well after falling behind a time or two. I didn't watch the whole game, but it looked like the Sharks were playing better hockey the majority of the time. I think they have to be the odds-on favorite to win the Stanley Cup now. I think a lot of pressure was lifted from them after their first round series victory over the Colorado Avalanche after a number of disappointing early round exits in recent years.
Other scores and schedule:
Sunday:
Game 2 -- (8) Montreal Canadiens 3, (4) Pittsburgh Penguins 1 (Series tied 1-1)
Monday:
Game 2 -- (6) Boston Bruins 3, (7) Philadelphia Flyers 2 (Bruins lead series 2-0)
Game 2 -- In progress -- (3) Vancouver Canucks 2, (2) Chicago Blackhawks 1, 10:10 remaining in 2nd period (Versus, Canucks lead series 1-0)
Tuesday:
Game 3 -- (4) Pittsburgh Penguins at (8) Montreal Canadiens, 5 p.m. MT (Versus, Series tied 1-1)
Game 3 -- (1) San Jose Sharks at (5) Detroit Red Wings, 5:30 p.m. MT (NHL Center Ice, joined in progress on Versus, Sharks lead series 2-0)
Wednesday:
Game 3 -- (6) Boston Bruins at (7) Philadelphia Flyers, 5 p.m. MT (Versus, Bruins lead series 2-0)
Game 3 -- (2) Chicago Blackhawks at (3) Vancouver Canucks, 7:30 p.m. MT (Versus, Canucks lead series 1-0)
Other scores and schedule:
Sunday:
Game 2 -- (8) Montreal Canadiens 3, (4) Pittsburgh Penguins 1 (Series tied 1-1)
Monday:
Game 2 -- (6) Boston Bruins 3, (7) Philadelphia Flyers 2 (Bruins lead series 2-0)
Game 2 -- In progress -- (3) Vancouver Canucks 2, (2) Chicago Blackhawks 1, 10:10 remaining in 2nd period (Versus, Canucks lead series 1-0)
Tuesday:
Game 3 -- (4) Pittsburgh Penguins at (8) Montreal Canadiens, 5 p.m. MT (Versus, Series tied 1-1)
Game 3 -- (1) San Jose Sharks at (5) Detroit Red Wings, 5:30 p.m. MT (NHL Center Ice, joined in progress on Versus, Sharks lead series 2-0)
Wednesday:
Game 3 -- (6) Boston Bruins at (7) Philadelphia Flyers, 5 p.m. MT (Versus, Bruins lead series 2-0)
Game 3 -- (2) Chicago Blackhawks at (3) Vancouver Canucks, 7:30 p.m. MT (Versus, Canucks lead series 1-0)
Jazz drop Game 1 to Lakers, 104-99
The Utah Jazz dropped Game 1 to the Los Angeles Lakers by a score of 104-99 Sunday afternoon at the Staples Center. The Jazz trailed by as many as 14 but rallied to take the lead late in the fourth quarter. Kobe Bryant, who led all scorers with 31 points, scored the last 10 points of the game to lead the Lakers to victory. Pau Gasol also had 25. Deron Williams led the Jazz with 24.
As Wesley Matthews said after the game, you can't really take moral victories, you want the real thing. I was impressed that the Jazz took the lead, but they need to finish the job next time. The Lakers are a really good team, but they are beatable, you just have to stay focused throughout. Carlos Boozer said as much after the game, saying the team needs to be tough throughout. Game 2 tomorrow night is a really big one, almost a must-win for the Jazz if they want to have a realistic chance of winning the series.
Here's the other scores from the last few days:
Saturday:
Game 1 -- (1) Cleveland 101, (4) Boston 93 (Cavaliers lead series 1-0)
Sunday:
Game 7 (First Round) -- (3) Atlanta 95, (6) Milwaukee 74 (Hawks win series 4-3)
And the schedule for today and tomorrow:
Tonight:
Game 2 -- In progress -- (4) Boston 80, (1) Cleveland 60, 0:51 left in 3rd quarter (TNT, Cavaliers lead series 1-0)
Game 1 -- (7) San Antonio at (3) Phoenix, 8:30 p.m. MT (TNT)
Tomorrow:
Game 1 -- (3) Atlanta at (2) Orlando, 6 p.m. MT (TNT)
Game 2 -- (5) Utah at (1) LA Lakers, 8:30 p.m. MT (TNT)
Sorry, I don't think I'll have time for an extended Second Round Preview. As for the only series I've yet to predict I'll say Magic over Hawks 4-2.
As Wesley Matthews said after the game, you can't really take moral victories, you want the real thing. I was impressed that the Jazz took the lead, but they need to finish the job next time. The Lakers are a really good team, but they are beatable, you just have to stay focused throughout. Carlos Boozer said as much after the game, saying the team needs to be tough throughout. Game 2 tomorrow night is a really big one, almost a must-win for the Jazz if they want to have a realistic chance of winning the series.
Here's the other scores from the last few days:
Saturday:
Game 1 -- (1) Cleveland 101, (4) Boston 93 (Cavaliers lead series 1-0)
Sunday:
Game 7 (First Round) -- (3) Atlanta 95, (6) Milwaukee 74 (Hawks win series 4-3)
And the schedule for today and tomorrow:
Tonight:
Game 2 -- In progress -- (4) Boston 80, (1) Cleveland 60, 0:51 left in 3rd quarter (TNT, Cavaliers lead series 1-0)
Game 1 -- (7) San Antonio at (3) Phoenix, 8:30 p.m. MT (TNT)
Tomorrow:
Game 1 -- (3) Atlanta at (2) Orlando, 6 p.m. MT (TNT)
Game 2 -- (5) Utah at (1) LA Lakers, 8:30 p.m. MT (TNT)
Sorry, I don't think I'll have time for an extended Second Round Preview. As for the only series I've yet to predict I'll say Magic over Hawks 4-2.
Saturday, May 1, 2010
Baseball Notes 5/1/2010
So it's finals week here in college, so I didn't get the Weekdays Review and Weekend Preview out, but I'll do an abbreviated version of it here 5/1/2010:
Most impressive performance: San Francisco Giants (13-9) taking two of three from the Phillies (12-10), but it felt like it should have been a sweep. See below. The Giants bounced back with a 5-2 win over the Rockies (11-12) last night behind a strong performance from Barry Zito.
Another impressive performance: New York Mets (14-9) sweeping the Los Angeles Dodgers (9-14). The Mets are playing some good baseball right now and now have won 8 in a row following last night's win over the Phillies. It's also good to see the Dodgers in last place. I was also impressed by the Tampa Bay Rays taking both games from the Oakland Athletics (12-12). The Rays (17-6) have the best record in baseball.
Least impressive performance: I'll say the Atlanta Braves getting swept in a four game series by the St. Louis Cardinals (15-8) at Busch Stadium. Those losses pushed the Braves' (9-14) losing streak to 9 games before they finally pulled one out at home last night, beating the Houston Astros (8-14) 4-2.
Weekend Best Series: Mets at Phillies. Right now on FOX, tomorrow at 6:05 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. The two hated NL East rivals are renewing acquantainces. Hopefully the Phils can cool off the Mets a bit. It's always fun when these two go at it, there's a lot of energy at the ballpark. As much as I don't like the Mets, it does seem like there is more energy there when they are playing well.
Another Good Series: Rockies at Giants. Two growing NL West rivals who should be in the race all season. See below.
Least intriguing: Red Sox (11-12) at Orioles (5-18). Neither team playing particularly well and the O's are just plain bad. The Orioles took the opener last night 5-4.
Most impressive performance: San Francisco Giants (13-9) taking two of three from the Phillies (12-10), but it felt like it should have been a sweep. See below. The Giants bounced back with a 5-2 win over the Rockies (11-12) last night behind a strong performance from Barry Zito.
Another impressive performance: New York Mets (14-9) sweeping the Los Angeles Dodgers (9-14). The Mets are playing some good baseball right now and now have won 8 in a row following last night's win over the Phillies. It's also good to see the Dodgers in last place. I was also impressed by the Tampa Bay Rays taking both games from the Oakland Athletics (12-12). The Rays (17-6) have the best record in baseball.
Least impressive performance: I'll say the Atlanta Braves getting swept in a four game series by the St. Louis Cardinals (15-8) at Busch Stadium. Those losses pushed the Braves' (9-14) losing streak to 9 games before they finally pulled one out at home last night, beating the Houston Astros (8-14) 4-2.
Weekend Best Series: Mets at Phillies. Right now on FOX, tomorrow at 6:05 p.m. MT on ESPN and espn3.com. The two hated NL East rivals are renewing acquantainces. Hopefully the Phils can cool off the Mets a bit. It's always fun when these two go at it, there's a lot of energy at the ballpark. As much as I don't like the Mets, it does seem like there is more energy there when they are playing well.
Another Good Series: Rockies at Giants. Two growing NL West rivals who should be in the race all season. See below.
Least intriguing: Red Sox (11-12) at Orioles (5-18). Neither team playing particularly well and the O's are just plain bad. The Orioles took the opener last night 5-4.
Jazz close out Nuggets in six
The Utah Jazz beat the Denver Nuggets 112-104 last night in Salt Lake City to win their Western Conference Quarterfinals series four games to two. Carlos Boozer posted some monster numbers with 22 points and 20 rebounds and rookie Wesley Matthews led the team with 23 points. Paul Millsap had 21 off the bench and Deron Williams had 14 points and 10 assists. Ronnie Price contributed, too, with Williams in a bit of foul trouble, notching 12 points in 19 minutes of play. Chauncey Billups of the Nuggets led all scorers with 30 points and chipped in 8 assists, Joey Graham (who?) had 21 points off the bench while Carmelo Anthony had 20 and 12 rebounds.
I liked how the Jazz started out the game and I thought they pretty much had it in the bag with a 15 point lead in the second quarter. However, the Nuggets rallied, largely behind Graham who I'd never really even heard of, and took an 8 point lead in the 3rd quarter. During this stretch I was very disappointed that Jazz coach Jerry Sloan never took a timeout. There's not another coach in the NBA who wouldn't call a timeout in that stretch. However, the Jazz were able to pull back ahead and salt the game away late.
I enjoyed seeing the Nuggets fall apart late, picking up a total of four technical fouls in the game, most of them in the fourth quarter. The Nuggets never seemed like a team that could keep their composure over the course of an entire series, and their lack of composure certainly didn't help them down the stretch. Of course don't take anything away from the Jazz as they showed a lot of composure in pulling away late. I may not like Sloan's lack of timeouts but his toughness seems to have rubbed off on the team and he's a good of an x's and o's coach as there is. The Jazz now take on the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round. "I guarantee you we'll be ready for it. We've just got to keep our focus," said Millsap after the game. Game 1 is tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 p.m. MT on ABC.
Here's the rest of the scores from the last couple of days:
Thursday:
Game 6 -- (7) San Antonio 97, (2) Dallas 87 (Spurs win series 4-2)
Game 6 -- (3) Phoenix 99, (6) Portland 90 (Suns win series 4-2)
Friday:
Game 6 -- (3) Atlanta 83, (6) Milwaukee 69 (Series tied 3-3)
Game 6 -- (1) LA Lakers 95, (8) Oklahoma City 94 (LA Lakers win series 4-2)
And here's the weekend schedule, all games are second round excepting Hawks-Bucks:
Saturday:
Game 1 -- (4) Boston Celtics at (1) Cleveland Cavaliers, 6 p.m. MT (TNT)
Sunday:
Game 7 -- (6) Milwaukee Bucks at (3) Atlanta Hawks, 11 a.m. MT (ABC)
Game 1 -- (5) Utah Jazz at (1) Los Angeles Lakers, 1:30 p.m. MT (ABC)
I'll have an official second round preview post later, but for picks for the series already scheduled I'll take Cavaliers over Celtics 4-3, Lakers over Jazz 4-2, and Suns over Spurs 4-3.
I liked how the Jazz started out the game and I thought they pretty much had it in the bag with a 15 point lead in the second quarter. However, the Nuggets rallied, largely behind Graham who I'd never really even heard of, and took an 8 point lead in the 3rd quarter. During this stretch I was very disappointed that Jazz coach Jerry Sloan never took a timeout. There's not another coach in the NBA who wouldn't call a timeout in that stretch. However, the Jazz were able to pull back ahead and salt the game away late.
I enjoyed seeing the Nuggets fall apart late, picking up a total of four technical fouls in the game, most of them in the fourth quarter. The Nuggets never seemed like a team that could keep their composure over the course of an entire series, and their lack of composure certainly didn't help them down the stretch. Of course don't take anything away from the Jazz as they showed a lot of composure in pulling away late. I may not like Sloan's lack of timeouts but his toughness seems to have rubbed off on the team and he's a good of an x's and o's coach as there is. The Jazz now take on the Los Angeles Lakers in the second round. "I guarantee you we'll be ready for it. We've just got to keep our focus," said Millsap after the game. Game 1 is tomorrow afternoon at 1:30 p.m. MT on ABC.
Here's the rest of the scores from the last couple of days:
Thursday:
Game 6 -- (7) San Antonio 97, (2) Dallas 87 (Spurs win series 4-2)
Game 6 -- (3) Phoenix 99, (6) Portland 90 (Suns win series 4-2)
Friday:
Game 6 -- (3) Atlanta 83, (6) Milwaukee 69 (Series tied 3-3)
Game 6 -- (1) LA Lakers 95, (8) Oklahoma City 94 (LA Lakers win series 4-2)
And here's the weekend schedule, all games are second round excepting Hawks-Bucks:
Saturday:
Game 1 -- (4) Boston Celtics at (1) Cleveland Cavaliers, 6 p.m. MT (TNT)
Sunday:
Game 7 -- (6) Milwaukee Bucks at (3) Atlanta Hawks, 11 a.m. MT (ABC)
Game 1 -- (5) Utah Jazz at (1) Los Angeles Lakers, 1:30 p.m. MT (ABC)
I'll have an official second round preview post later, but for picks for the series already scheduled I'll take Cavaliers over Celtics 4-3, Lakers over Jazz 4-2, and Suns over Spurs 4-3.
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