It was a bad weekend for the Utah (1-5) basketball team. The Runnin' Utes lost to Harvard (6-0), Massachusetts (5-2) and UNC Asheville (3-4) by scores of 75-47, 90-75 and 87-65 at the Battle 4 Atlantis Tournament in the Bahamas.
I don't have HDNet, so I wasn't able to actually watch any of the three games, but the scores speak for themselves. Harvard is actually a good team, believe it or not, and will probably be ranked this week. I'm not as well versed on UMass and UNC Asheville, but based on the Bulldogs' record, it doesn't appear that they are world beaters. UMass picked up their only win of the tournament against the Utes.
In looking at the statistics, it appears Utah actually had a pretty good shooting night against UMass. It's alarming that they still lost that game by 15 points. I don't give the Runnin' Utes much of a chance in their next game at Fresno State (2-4) on Saturday at 2 p.m. MT. Following this, Utah has four straight home games, three of which are against teams that one would think aren't exactly top notch. So, I'm hopeful that Utah can pick up a win or two in that stretch or this thing could get really ugly.
This Utah team appears to be much worse than last year, as last year's group actually was competitive in a number of games and posted a 13-18 record, including 7-7 in non-conference play. I can tell you right now that I will be shocked if Utah is anywhere near 7-7 going into Pac-12 play this year. Hopefully they can improve and pick a few wins, but as I've said before, it looks like it will be a long year.
Sunday, November 27, 2011
Wednesday, November 16, 2011
Runnin' Utes blown out by Boise State
Utah (1-1) lost tonight at Boise State (2-0) by a score of 80-59. This win comes on the heels of the Runnin' Utes topping San Diego Christian College, an NAIA school, on Monday night by a score of 58-55.
I have not been impressed at all with the Utes so far this year. Honestly, they don't look like they know what they're doing out there. I know it's early, but this year's Utah team looks like the least talented Utes team I have ever seen -- not a good thing when entering the first year in the Pac-12. The team looks like it's playing pretty hard out there, they just don't look like they have a lot of talent.
Jiggy Watkins led the Utes with 19 points. Watkins so far has looked like by far the best Utah player. However, he can't do everything by himself. I expect more production from center Jason Washburn, who had 5 points and 6 rebounds in 25 minutes tonight. Sometimes I feel like Washburn just needs to play smarter. He's got talent, but he needs to keep his head in the game.
Look, I'm sure Utah will play better as the season goes on and the team gets more time to mesh and gel. So, we'll see if I'm overreacting. Maybe Boise State will turn out to be a better team than I'm expecting, but I still see tonight as an embarrassing loss. Larry Krystkowiak hasn't exactly set the world on fire in his first two games as head coach, but I'm willing to give him some time. I don't think the talent is all that great this year, as I alluded to. I think this team will get better, but this looks to have all the makings of a long year.
The Runnin' Utes host Montana State (1-1) on Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. There is no television for the game, but you can watch a live stream of the game via utahutes.com
I have not been impressed at all with the Utes so far this year. Honestly, they don't look like they know what they're doing out there. I know it's early, but this year's Utah team looks like the least talented Utes team I have ever seen -- not a good thing when entering the first year in the Pac-12. The team looks like it's playing pretty hard out there, they just don't look like they have a lot of talent.
Jiggy Watkins led the Utes with 19 points. Watkins so far has looked like by far the best Utah player. However, he can't do everything by himself. I expect more production from center Jason Washburn, who had 5 points and 6 rebounds in 25 minutes tonight. Sometimes I feel like Washburn just needs to play smarter. He's got talent, but he needs to keep his head in the game.
Look, I'm sure Utah will play better as the season goes on and the team gets more time to mesh and gel. So, we'll see if I'm overreacting. Maybe Boise State will turn out to be a better team than I'm expecting, but I still see tonight as an embarrassing loss. Larry Krystkowiak hasn't exactly set the world on fire in his first two games as head coach, but I'm willing to give him some time. I don't think the talent is all that great this year, as I alluded to. I think this team will get better, but this looks to have all the makings of a long year.
The Runnin' Utes host Montana State (1-1) on Saturday afternoon at 1 p.m. There is no television for the game, but you can watch a live stream of the game via utahutes.com
Saturday, November 12, 2011
The Penn State scandal
I just watched most of the Penn State-Nebraska game today (won by Nebraska 17-14). It was the first game in a long time for Penn State without head coach Joe Paterno, who was fired earlier this week amid a major scandal involving former defensive coordinator Jerry Sandusky. Paterno and numerous other associated with Penn State appear to have failed to report disturbing sexual allegations against young boys committed by Sandusky.
The whole situation is sad to me. Sandusky appears to be a monster. After reading the grand jury report, it was just sickening what he appears to have done. And it's a problem that Paterno and receivers coach Mike McQueary knew about at least one allegation for several years and didn't report it to the police, even if they each informed their superiors at the university. Both Paterno and McQueary deserved what they got.
I don't think Paterno or McQueary necessarily meant for more crimes to be committed, but that's just something you have to report to the police. I feel a little bad for both of them (McQueary has been placed on administrative leave and I'll bet he never coaches another game at Penn State), but not even close to as bad as I feel for all of the victims. Who knows how many kids and their families were harmed by the actions of Sandusky and how many more in the years before the grand jury investigation when Paterno and McQueary had some knowledge of the situation. Stuff like that can affect people for the rest of their lives. That's the real tragedy.
The whole situation is sad to me. Sandusky appears to be a monster. After reading the grand jury report, it was just sickening what he appears to have done. And it's a problem that Paterno and receivers coach Mike McQueary knew about at least one allegation for several years and didn't report it to the police, even if they each informed their superiors at the university. Both Paterno and McQueary deserved what they got.
I don't think Paterno or McQueary necessarily meant for more crimes to be committed, but that's just something you have to report to the police. I feel a little bad for both of them (McQueary has been placed on administrative leave and I'll bet he never coaches another game at Penn State), but not even close to as bad as I feel for all of the victims. Who knows how many kids and their families were harmed by the actions of Sandusky and how many more in the years before the grand jury investigation when Paterno and McQueary had some knowledge of the situation. Stuff like that can affect people for the rest of their lives. That's the real tragedy.
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Utah football takes on Arizona today
Utah (4-4, 1-4 Pac-12) football visits Arizona (2-6, 1-5 Pac-12) today at 5 p.m. MDT (Utah time). The game can be seen in Utah on KJZZ. The Utes looked better last week at home against Oregon State (2-6, 2-3 Pac-12), winning 27-8. The key to me was that Utah limited the mistakes on offense, particularly in the turnover department. This and some nice drives in the 2nd quarter allowed Utah to open up a big lead and cruise to victory.
However, I would like to see the offense move the ball more consistently; the second half against the Beavers was certainly nothing to write home about. But, the biggest key will again be to limit turnovers. The defense has played pretty well all year and I expect that to continue today. Arizona is a team Utah probably has more talent than and probably should beat, but that certainly is no guarantee, especially on the road. The offense, and particularly quarterback Jon Hays playing smart and limiting mistakes, will be the key to the game. Follow me on Twitter for in-game updates. Go Utes!
However, I would like to see the offense move the ball more consistently; the second half against the Beavers was certainly nothing to write home about. But, the biggest key will again be to limit turnovers. The defense has played pretty well all year and I expect that to continue today. Arizona is a team Utah probably has more talent than and probably should beat, but that certainly is no guarantee, especially on the road. The offense, and particularly quarterback Jon Hays playing smart and limiting mistakes, will be the key to the game. Follow me on Twitter for in-game updates. Go Utes!
Runnin' Utes drop exhibition to DII Adams State
The Utah Runnin' Utes (0-0) basketball team lost an exhibition game to Division II school Adams State (0-0) 61-60 last night at the Huntsman Center in Salt Lake City. Freshman Kareem Story called a time-out that the Runnin' Utes didn't have with about 11 seconds left in a tie game and Adams State cashed in on one of the two resulting technical free throws. It leaves me with a sickening feeling to lose to a Division II school. On the bright side of things, the game was just an exhibition and therefore does not count against the team's record.
It makes me feel a little better that Butler, West Virginia and Arizona also lost exhibition games at home to similar type schools this preseason. However, it just isn't good form to lose to a DII school, even in a game that doesn't count. But, I'm going to try not to read too much into it for now. Coach Larry Krystkowiak said after the game that the phantom time-out was on the coaches; it sounded like it hadn't been discussed by the team. That shouldn't happen, the coaches should make sure the team knows there are no more time-outs, though the players should know this, too.
Utah opens up the regular season on Monday, November 14th against San Diego Christian College (0-0), an NAIA school. Adams State actually takes on Utah State (0-0) in Logan at 4 p.m. MT today in another exhibition game.
It makes me feel a little better that Butler, West Virginia and Arizona also lost exhibition games at home to similar type schools this preseason. However, it just isn't good form to lose to a DII school, even in a game that doesn't count. But, I'm going to try not to read too much into it for now. Coach Larry Krystkowiak said after the game that the phantom time-out was on the coaches; it sounded like it hadn't been discussed by the team. That shouldn't happen, the coaches should make sure the team knows there are no more time-outs, though the players should know this, too.
Utah opens up the regular season on Monday, November 14th against San Diego Christian College (0-0), an NAIA school. Adams State actually takes on Utah State (0-0) in Logan at 4 p.m. MT today in another exhibition game.
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Cardinals win in 7
The St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Texas Rangers 6-2 last night in Game 7 of the World Series to win it 4 games to 3. David Freese earned series MVP honors. The game that will be talked about as one of the all-timers, though, is Game 6, won by the Cardinals 10-9 in 11 innings.
It wasn't just that the Cardinals won Game 6, it was how they won. They trailed 7-5 in the 9th and 9-7 in the 10th, and were down to their final strike in both innings. In the 9th, it was Freese coming through with a two-run triple, and in the 10th it was Lance Berkman bringing home the 2nd run of the inning with an RBI single. Freese won it with a walk-off home run in the 11th.
Honestly, I think Game 6 has to be the greatest game I have ever seen, especially when you consider what was on the line and the heroics that were involved. I can't ever remember seeing a baseball game like that. There really are no words to describe how it all went down. It was simply unbelievable. You just don't see stuff like that.
After the Cardinals took Game 6, you just kind of felt like they would win Game 7 as well. It was just such a devastating loss for the Rangers that it would have been surprising to me if they had come back to win Game 7. I personally thought Rangers manager Ron Washington had his outfield playing way too deep in the "no doubles" defense with the tying run on 2nd in the 10th. Had the outfield been playing closer in, there may have been more of a play at the plate on Berkman's single.
It seemed Washington was playing more not too lose in that inning, with the winning run on first, and in doing so, did not allow his defense any chance in cutting down the tying run at the plate. However, that should take nothing away from St. Louis as there was a good chance that runner scores anyway.
It also looked to me like Rangers right fielder Nelson Cruz had a chance to catch Freese's game-tying triple in the 9th, which would have won the World Series for the Rangers. Cruz seemed to almost casually drift back to attempt to make a play on the ball and he just looked awkward out there. It would have been a nice catch, but I bet Cruz could have, probably should have made that play. I was surprised when the ball got down, but it was not the most routine play and was properly scored a triple.
What a pair of moments for Freese (and one for Berkman in the 10th), I can't imagine how it would feel to accomplish something like that. What a game, this one will be talked about for ages. It is tough to come up with words for the World Series, so I'll just leave it with one word: unbelievable.
It wasn't just that the Cardinals won Game 6, it was how they won. They trailed 7-5 in the 9th and 9-7 in the 10th, and were down to their final strike in both innings. In the 9th, it was Freese coming through with a two-run triple, and in the 10th it was Lance Berkman bringing home the 2nd run of the inning with an RBI single. Freese won it with a walk-off home run in the 11th.
Honestly, I think Game 6 has to be the greatest game I have ever seen, especially when you consider what was on the line and the heroics that were involved. I can't ever remember seeing a baseball game like that. There really are no words to describe how it all went down. It was simply unbelievable. You just don't see stuff like that.
After the Cardinals took Game 6, you just kind of felt like they would win Game 7 as well. It was just such a devastating loss for the Rangers that it would have been surprising to me if they had come back to win Game 7. I personally thought Rangers manager Ron Washington had his outfield playing way too deep in the "no doubles" defense with the tying run on 2nd in the 10th. Had the outfield been playing closer in, there may have been more of a play at the plate on Berkman's single.
It seemed Washington was playing more not too lose in that inning, with the winning run on first, and in doing so, did not allow his defense any chance in cutting down the tying run at the plate. However, that should take nothing away from St. Louis as there was a good chance that runner scores anyway.
It also looked to me like Rangers right fielder Nelson Cruz had a chance to catch Freese's game-tying triple in the 9th, which would have won the World Series for the Rangers. Cruz seemed to almost casually drift back to attempt to make a play on the ball and he just looked awkward out there. It would have been a nice catch, but I bet Cruz could have, probably should have made that play. I was surprised when the ball got down, but it was not the most routine play and was properly scored a triple.
What a pair of moments for Freese (and one for Berkman in the 10th), I can't imagine how it would feel to accomplish something like that. What a game, this one will be talked about for ages. It is tough to come up with words for the World Series, so I'll just leave it with one word: unbelievable.
Tuesday, October 25, 2011
Rangers lead World Series 3-2
The Texas Rangers picked up wins the last two nights in Games 4 and 5. The Rangers lead the World Series 3 games to 2. The big story in Game 4 was Derek Holland who pitched shutout ball into the 9th. The last two games have both featured huge hits from Mike Napoli, who is in line to be the World Series MVP if the Rangers pull it out.
I think the St. Louis Cardinals are in serious trouble after losing Game 5, which was started by ace Chris Carpenter (even though the bullpen gave up the winning runs). I think the Rangers are just the stronger team at this point. The Cards really need a dynamic performance from Jaime Garcia, the type of which he gave them in Game 2. Game 6 from St. Louis is tomorrow night at 6 p.m. MT on FOX.
I think the St. Louis Cardinals are in serious trouble after losing Game 5, which was started by ace Chris Carpenter (even though the bullpen gave up the winning runs). I think the Rangers are just the stronger team at this point. The Cards really need a dynamic performance from Jaime Garcia, the type of which he gave them in Game 2. Game 6 from St. Louis is tomorrow night at 6 p.m. MT on FOX.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Albert Pujols with a historic night
Pictured: Albert Pujols connects for one of his three home runs in Game 3 Saturday night in Texas.Well, my Utah Utes (3-4, 0-4 Pac-12) lost 34-10 to Cal (4-3, 1-3 Pac-12) tonight and looked pretty listless. So, I'm not going to spend a whole lot of time on that.
The story of the night was Albert Pujols of the St. Louis Cardinals hitting 3 home runs in Game 3 of the World Series. Pujols is the 3rd player in the history of Major League Baseball to do this in a World Series game, joining Babe Ruth (who did it twice) and Reggie Jackson. It's just the type of thing you don't exactly expect to see when you tune it to watch because it's such a rarity. I don't know if I have words to describe what an achievement it is. When Pujols hit that 3rd home run in the 9th, I let out a little yelp because I realized I had just seen something improbable and incredible.
The Cardinals now lead the World Series 2 games to 1. This means Game 4 tomorrow night is a must-win for the Rangers, especially with Cards ace Chris Carpenter slated to pitch Game 5. The Cardinals have shown that their offense is real and to be reckoned with. Game 4 will show a lot about the character of the Rangers.
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Rangers stun Cardinals in ninth to even World Series
The Texas Rangers defeated the St. Louis Cardinals 2-1 in Game 2 of the World Series tonight. The series is tied at a game apiece. It was very well-pitched game. The Rangers scored 2 runs in the top of the 9th to grab the lead and the win. It's a very uplifting win for the Rangers and a very demoralizing loss for the Cardinals.
The Rangers played smart in the top of the 9th to score twice. Ian Kinsler made a gutty play and just stole 2nd ahead of a great throw from Yadier Molina. Then Elvis Andrus singled and took second when Albert Pujols didn't cut off a throw from right field. It was a play Pujols should have made; the throw was there to be cut off and Pujols just missed it. The play ended up being the difference between the Rangers winning and the game still being tied. Andrus deserves credit for taking 2nd on the play, as it was a close play and required guts to attempt.
It really is fundamentals that helped determine the outcome. Pujols cutting off the ball is a fundamental play. Andrus taking the extra base may not be purely fundamental, but it was a good, aggressive play that helped his team win.
Also, good situational hitting from Josh Hamilton and Michael Young to get sacrifice flies when each had a runner on third and less than two outs. It's good hitting to get the ball in the air there when the pitchers clearly had to be going for strikeouts. I kind of have to agree with the analysts who say Tony La Russa should have stayed with Jason Motte against Hamilton, even though bringing in Arthur Rhodes brought up a left-on-left match-up. Even though Motte hasn't been the "official" closer, he's been the closer. He hadn't blown the save yet and this could be a blow to his confidence.
I understand where La Russa was coming from as he likes to go with situational match-ups, but I disagree with him on this one. Motte probably would have coughed up the save at that point anyway since the Cards only held a one run lead and there were runners on second and third with nobody out. However, he would benefit in the future from knowing he's the guy, it seems like La Russa showed some doubt in him there. We'll see what happens with Motte the rest of the series.
Finally, if I were La Russa and the Cardinals, I would start Chris Carpenter on short rest for Game 4 on Sunday. Carpenter is the Cards' best pitcher and gives them the best chance to win. If he goes in Game 4, he could come back again on short rest for a potential Game 7 and therefore pitch three times in the series instead of two. Also, Carpenter only threw 87 pitches in Game 1 and should have more in the tank to come back on short rest.
That's all for now, stay tuned to the blog for World Series updates analysis. I will try to get in some blogging about Utah football soon as well. Also, follow me on Twitter as well for World Series and Utes in-game updates and analysis as well other thoughts on sports.
The Rangers played smart in the top of the 9th to score twice. Ian Kinsler made a gutty play and just stole 2nd ahead of a great throw from Yadier Molina. Then Elvis Andrus singled and took second when Albert Pujols didn't cut off a throw from right field. It was a play Pujols should have made; the throw was there to be cut off and Pujols just missed it. The play ended up being the difference between the Rangers winning and the game still being tied. Andrus deserves credit for taking 2nd on the play, as it was a close play and required guts to attempt.
It really is fundamentals that helped determine the outcome. Pujols cutting off the ball is a fundamental play. Andrus taking the extra base may not be purely fundamental, but it was a good, aggressive play that helped his team win.
Also, good situational hitting from Josh Hamilton and Michael Young to get sacrifice flies when each had a runner on third and less than two outs. It's good hitting to get the ball in the air there when the pitchers clearly had to be going for strikeouts. I kind of have to agree with the analysts who say Tony La Russa should have stayed with Jason Motte against Hamilton, even though bringing in Arthur Rhodes brought up a left-on-left match-up. Even though Motte hasn't been the "official" closer, he's been the closer. He hadn't blown the save yet and this could be a blow to his confidence.
I understand where La Russa was coming from as he likes to go with situational match-ups, but I disagree with him on this one. Motte probably would have coughed up the save at that point anyway since the Cards only held a one run lead and there were runners on second and third with nobody out. However, he would benefit in the future from knowing he's the guy, it seems like La Russa showed some doubt in him there. We'll see what happens with Motte the rest of the series.
Finally, if I were La Russa and the Cardinals, I would start Chris Carpenter on short rest for Game 4 on Sunday. Carpenter is the Cards' best pitcher and gives them the best chance to win. If he goes in Game 4, he could come back again on short rest for a potential Game 7 and therefore pitch three times in the series instead of two. Also, Carpenter only threw 87 pitches in Game 1 and should have more in the tank to come back on short rest.
That's all for now, stay tuned to the blog for World Series updates analysis. I will try to get in some blogging about Utah football soon as well. Also, follow me on Twitter as well for World Series and Utes in-game updates and analysis as well other thoughts on sports.
Wednesday, October 19, 2011
Cards use clutch hitting and bullpen to take WS Game 1
The St. Louis Cardinals defeated the Texas Rangers 3-2 in Game 1 of the World Series tonight. I'm going to jump straight to my thoughts on the game. The Cardinals bullpen was fantastic again. It really is shocking to me to see that group of relievers continuing to shut down the top offenses in baseball.
When I watched the Cards during the season, and especially when they took on the Giants, the bullpen was quite unimpressive. Then again, the Giants opened at home against the Cardinals when Ryan Franklin was the closer. Franklin was so bad that he is no longer with the team. Jason Motte (even with a very ugly beard) has done a bang up job in the playoffs in the closer role (even if manager Tony La Russa won't officially acknowledge he is the closer). Still, they don't have many guys down in that bullpen that strike fear into my mind. However, they have been lights out and really seem to be feeding off of each other. I credit pitching coach Dave Duncan, who has long been one of the top coaches in all of the game.
I thought Ron Washington handled his bullpen, etc. better tonight than he did in last year's World Series against the Giants, when he left guys out there far too long. In fact, he did a much better job with that. The only thing I take issue with Washington doing was pinch-hitting with Esteban German in the top of the 7th with two runners on. German hadn't had an at bat the entire postseason and did not come through. Yorvit Torrealba seemed a much better option, particularly with the Rangers carrying three catchers in the series.
Props to Allen Craig for a clutch pinch-hit single that proved to be the game winner. He rewarded La Russa for pulling starting pitcher Chris Carpenter in that spot, which I think was the right move regardless. You have to play to win and you don't know how many chances you are going to get to score. Alright, that's all for tonight, follow me on Twitter for in game updates and stay tuned to the blog for more analysis.
When I watched the Cards during the season, and especially when they took on the Giants, the bullpen was quite unimpressive. Then again, the Giants opened at home against the Cardinals when Ryan Franklin was the closer. Franklin was so bad that he is no longer with the team. Jason Motte (even with a very ugly beard) has done a bang up job in the playoffs in the closer role (even if manager Tony La Russa won't officially acknowledge he is the closer). Still, they don't have many guys down in that bullpen that strike fear into my mind. However, they have been lights out and really seem to be feeding off of each other. I credit pitching coach Dave Duncan, who has long been one of the top coaches in all of the game.
I thought Ron Washington handled his bullpen, etc. better tonight than he did in last year's World Series against the Giants, when he left guys out there far too long. In fact, he did a much better job with that. The only thing I take issue with Washington doing was pinch-hitting with Esteban German in the top of the 7th with two runners on. German hadn't had an at bat the entire postseason and did not come through. Yorvit Torrealba seemed a much better option, particularly with the Rangers carrying three catchers in the series.
Props to Allen Craig for a clutch pinch-hit single that proved to be the game winner. He rewarded La Russa for pulling starting pitcher Chris Carpenter in that spot, which I think was the right move regardless. You have to play to win and you don't know how many chances you are going to get to score. Alright, that's all for tonight, follow me on Twitter for in game updates and stay tuned to the blog for more analysis.
Monday, October 17, 2011
My World Series pick: Rangers in six
I'm picking the Texas Rangers to knock off the St. Louis Cardinals in six games in the World Series. Both teams are very solid, but I think the Rangers are just a little bit better. I know the Cardinals bullpen has been very good, but I have more confidence in the back end of the Rangers 'pen to get things done. The Cardinals have a good offense, but the Rangers' is even more potent in my book.
The wild card in the series is Chris Carpenter. If he pitches two (or three) great games like he did in Game 5 against the Phillies in the first round, then the Cardinals probably win. But I think best case scenario for St. Louis is one great start and one good start that gives his team the chance to win. And in a toss-up type of situation, well I think the Rangers are just a little bit better. That offense is something else. I'll be keen to see how the Cardinals pitching staff, and bullpen in particular, handle it.
The two teams are pretty evenly matched, and that should make for an exciting and long series. I can't wait for it to get started. Game 1 is on Wednesday from St. Louis at 6 p.m. MT on FOX. Carpenter starts for the Cards and for the Rangers it will be C.J. Wilson, who had a very solid season, but has struggled some in the playoffs. Should be fun.
The wild card in the series is Chris Carpenter. If he pitches two (or three) great games like he did in Game 5 against the Phillies in the first round, then the Cardinals probably win. But I think best case scenario for St. Louis is one great start and one good start that gives his team the chance to win. And in a toss-up type of situation, well I think the Rangers are just a little bit better. That offense is something else. I'll be keen to see how the Cardinals pitching staff, and bullpen in particular, handle it.
The two teams are pretty evenly matched, and that should make for an exciting and long series. I can't wait for it to get started. Game 1 is on Wednesday from St. Louis at 6 p.m. MT on FOX. Carpenter starts for the Cards and for the Rangers it will be C.J. Wilson, who had a very solid season, but has struggled some in the playoffs. Should be fun.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
LCS and NBA lockout thoughts
At left: Albert Pujols has looked locked in during the playoffs, and that was on display last night against the Brewers.Thoughts from both LCS and on the NBA lockout:
- The Brewers aren't exactly making a lot of friends with their "Beast Mode" antics this postseason. Sure, it looks like fun and it looks like they are having a good time. But, I thought from the first time I saw it that opposing teams wouldn't look too kindly on it. The Diamondbacks certainly didn't, even countering with a snake bite type of antic that appeared to be in direct response to Beast Mode.
The Cardinals looked extra amped for Game 2 of the NLCS last night, after the Brewers won Game 1 Sunday afternoon and displayed their Beast Mode celebrations throughout the game. These teams already didn't like each other from the regular season. Last night's lopsided St. Louis win seemed like a statement to me from the Cards. They seem extra motivated to not allow Milwaukee to celebrate in front of them.
- I have tweeted this, but Albert Pujols looks particularly dialed in this postseason. He's been one of the top players in the game for several years now and always seems focused. However, it seems like he has taken his focus and determination to another level during the playoffs -- I wouldn't have really thought that was possible. Pujols made a great defensive play against the Phillies that I don't think a whole lot of first baseman would even try. He seemed especially locked in last night against the Brewers. Maybe it's his impending free agency and the uncertainty of whether he will return to St. Louis, but Pujols seems very motivated right now.
- Big match-up tomorrow at 2 p.m. MT on FOX tomorrow in Game 4 between the Tigers and Rangers. I still think that series goes seven games and I feel like the NLCS is headed in that direction as well. If Adrian Beltre of the Rangers or Victor Martinez of the Tigers are unable to play for any significant amount of time, though, it could sway the ALCS toward the opposing team. I feel like Martinez's impact is more important, not because Beltre isn't good, but because Texas' lineup has a lot of sluggers in it. Detroit needs Martinez to protect Miguel Cabrera in the batting order.
- The NBA lockout looks like it will be in effect for a while. The sides don't seem terribly close to an agreement. I thought it was a bit of a joke when commissioner David Stern threatened to cancel the entire season a couple of weeks ago. That is the definition of a threat without legs -- the league wouldn't turn down the revenue playing games brings if the players agreed to a deal. However, I think the NBA will miss about half of the season before getting this thing resolved. Of course, I don't rule out the possibility of the entire season being wiped out.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
Three Game 5s spread between tonight and tomorrow
Getting ready to watch Tigers-Yankees in just a few minutes on TBS. It's the first of three decisive Game 5s in the first round. Tomorrow it's Brewers-Diamondbacks at 3 p.m. MT and Phillies-Cardinals at 6:30 p.m. MT. It doesn't get much better than this. If you get a chance, I encourage you to check out as much of these games as possible. Seasons are on the line and it's now or never. I love it.
I hope the Tigers reconsider their position of not bringing ace pitcher Justin Verlander out of the bullpen tonight should the situation warrant it. It's Game 5 and in my book, you should have all hands on deck.
Well, in any case, here we go!
I hope the Tigers reconsider their position of not bringing ace pitcher Justin Verlander out of the bullpen tonight should the situation warrant it. It's Game 5 and in my book, you should have all hands on deck.
Well, in any case, here we go!
Saturday, October 1, 2011
National League Awards
National League Awards:
MVP: Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers. I know he played on a third place team, but he was without a doubt the best player in the National League. He led the NL in homers (39) and RBIs (126) as well as finishing in third in average (.324) and fourth in on-base percentage (.399). Additionally, he was second in the National League with 40 steals and played an outstanding center field. It's tough to admit that the MVP should go to a Dodger, but credit where credit is due.
Cy Young: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers. Another tough one for me to swallow, but Kershaw was tied for the league lead in wins (21-5), first in ERA (2.28) and first in strikeouts (248). Best pitcher in the league, in my book. Particularly impressed with his 21 wins on a third-place team.
Manager of the Year: Kirk Gibson, Arizona Diamondbacks. He got that team to the playoffs.
Rookie of the Year: Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves. Great closer, even if he faded down the stretch.
Sorry not more detail, but the playoffs are under way on TBS for today.
MVP: Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers. I know he played on a third place team, but he was without a doubt the best player in the National League. He led the NL in homers (39) and RBIs (126) as well as finishing in third in average (.324) and fourth in on-base percentage (.399). Additionally, he was second in the National League with 40 steals and played an outstanding center field. It's tough to admit that the MVP should go to a Dodger, but credit where credit is due.
Cy Young: Clayton Kershaw, Los Angeles Dodgers. Another tough one for me to swallow, but Kershaw was tied for the league lead in wins (21-5), first in ERA (2.28) and first in strikeouts (248). Best pitcher in the league, in my book. Particularly impressed with his 21 wins on a third-place team.
Manager of the Year: Kirk Gibson, Arizona Diamondbacks. He got that team to the playoffs.
Rookie of the Year: Craig Kimbrel, Atlanta Braves. Great closer, even if he faded down the stretch.
Sorry not more detail, but the playoffs are under way on TBS for today.
Friday, September 30, 2011
My American League Awards
Since the playoffs start later today, it is time for my coveted annual Derek's Baseball Awards:
American League:
MVP: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers. Not only did Verlander win the AL pitching triple crown (24-5, 2.40 ERA, 250 strikeouts), but he led in pretty much every relevant pitching category, not just in the American League, but in all of baseball.
Verlander led in innings pitched (251) as well as WHIP (0.92), which measures the number of hits and walks given up per every inning pitched. He also led all of baseball in batting average against (.192) and on-base percentage against (.242). The man was simply a beast. He ran away with the Cy Young Award along time ago, but I think he was clearly the best player in the American League this year.
Others players should be mentioned in the race for 2nd in the voting, such as Blue Jays OF Jose Bautista (my pick for 2nd), Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury and 1B Adrian Gonzalez and Tigers 1B Miguel Cabrera. Bautista had a huge year, leading the league in homers (43) and 2nd in on-base percentage (.447 behind Cabrera's .448) and knocked in 103 runs. However, Verlander to me was just head and shoulders above the rest. I know it's been almost 20 years since a pitcher has won an MVP award, but I think Verlander clearly deserves it.
Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers. See above, you can make all the same arguments except you don't have to factor in the hitters.
Rookie of the Year: Eric Hosmer, Kansas City Royals. He hit .293 with 19 home runs and 78 RBIs. There wasn't a whole lot of competition, but Hosmer still had a nice year. Also to be mentioned are Jeremy Hellickson of the Rays and Ivan Nova of the Yankees.
Manager of the Year: Joe Maddon, Tampa Bay Rays. Maddon lost a ton of key players from last year's AL East Champion team, but still managed to get this year's team into the playoffs with a 91-71 record, despite being 9 games out of the Wild Card in early September. He kept the team believing, the man can manage.
National League: I'll hit those up later tonight or tomorrow morning since the National League Playoffs don't get underway until tomorrow.
American League:
MVP: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers. Not only did Verlander win the AL pitching triple crown (24-5, 2.40 ERA, 250 strikeouts), but he led in pretty much every relevant pitching category, not just in the American League, but in all of baseball.
Verlander led in innings pitched (251) as well as WHIP (0.92), which measures the number of hits and walks given up per every inning pitched. He also led all of baseball in batting average against (.192) and on-base percentage against (.242). The man was simply a beast. He ran away with the Cy Young Award along time ago, but I think he was clearly the best player in the American League this year.
Others players should be mentioned in the race for 2nd in the voting, such as Blue Jays OF Jose Bautista (my pick for 2nd), Red Sox OF Jacoby Ellsbury and 1B Adrian Gonzalez and Tigers 1B Miguel Cabrera. Bautista had a huge year, leading the league in homers (43) and 2nd in on-base percentage (.447 behind Cabrera's .448) and knocked in 103 runs. However, Verlander to me was just head and shoulders above the rest. I know it's been almost 20 years since a pitcher has won an MVP award, but I think Verlander clearly deserves it.
Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers. See above, you can make all the same arguments except you don't have to factor in the hitters.
Rookie of the Year: Eric Hosmer, Kansas City Royals. He hit .293 with 19 home runs and 78 RBIs. There wasn't a whole lot of competition, but Hosmer still had a nice year. Also to be mentioned are Jeremy Hellickson of the Rays and Ivan Nova of the Yankees.
Manager of the Year: Joe Maddon, Tampa Bay Rays. Maddon lost a ton of key players from last year's AL East Champion team, but still managed to get this year's team into the playoffs with a 91-71 record, despite being 9 games out of the Wild Card in early September. He kept the team believing, the man can manage.
National League: I'll hit those up later tonight or tomorrow morning since the National League Playoffs don't get underway until tomorrow.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
Playoff picks
Sooo, the two teams I picked to make the World Series, the San Francisco Giants (86-76) and the Boston Red Sox (90-72) didn't even make the playoffs. I'm sad about the Giants, but think it's cool the Tampa Bay Rays (91-71) made it. Anyway, let's get cracking with my playoff picks:
American League:
Texas Rangers (96-66) over Rays in 4. The Rangers have some pitching and have a very potent offense, but the Rays have a ton of intangibles, but a ton of pitching. I think the Rangers have more talent, though, and will pull it out.
Detroit Tigers (95-67) over New York Yankees (97-65) in 5. Putting it simply: the Tigers have Justin Verlander and he gets to pitch twice in a full series. He's the best player in the American League this year in my book. Both teams have hitting and pitching, but I think Verlander makes the difference.
National League:
Philadelphia Phillies (102-60) over St. Louis Cardinals (90-72) in 4. The Phillies just have a better team. Their pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation is better. But the Cards have a good team and a good manager in Tony La Russa so they should make it a series.
Milwaukee Brewers (96-66) over Arizona Diamondbacks (94-68) in 5. The Brewers have a much better team on paper. But so did the Giants if you ask me. The D-Backs have the intangibles and mojo that could carry them past the first round. However, the Brewers have good chemistry and I think the deciding factor will be home field advantage.
Well, for the heck of it, I'll pick the LCS and World Series while I'm at it: Rangers over Tigers in 7 and Phillies over Brewers in 6. In the World Series, Phillies over Rangers in 5. More detailed picks on the succeeding rounds when they are upon us.
Tomorrow, it's Rays at Rangers at 3 p.m. MT and Tigers at Yankees at 6:30 p.m. MT. Both games are on TBS. The National League Playoffs get underway on Saturday.
American League:
Texas Rangers (96-66) over Rays in 4. The Rangers have some pitching and have a very potent offense, but the Rays have a ton of intangibles, but a ton of pitching. I think the Rangers have more talent, though, and will pull it out.
Detroit Tigers (95-67) over New York Yankees (97-65) in 5. Putting it simply: the Tigers have Justin Verlander and he gets to pitch twice in a full series. He's the best player in the American League this year in my book. Both teams have hitting and pitching, but I think Verlander makes the difference.
National League:
Philadelphia Phillies (102-60) over St. Louis Cardinals (90-72) in 4. The Phillies just have a better team. Their pitching staff, particularly the starting rotation is better. But the Cards have a good team and a good manager in Tony La Russa so they should make it a series.
Milwaukee Brewers (96-66) over Arizona Diamondbacks (94-68) in 5. The Brewers have a much better team on paper. But so did the Giants if you ask me. The D-Backs have the intangibles and mojo that could carry them past the first round. However, the Brewers have good chemistry and I think the deciding factor will be home field advantage.
Well, for the heck of it, I'll pick the LCS and World Series while I'm at it: Rangers over Tigers in 7 and Phillies over Brewers in 6. In the World Series, Phillies over Rangers in 5. More detailed picks on the succeeding rounds when they are upon us.
Tomorrow, it's Rays at Rangers at 3 p.m. MT and Tigers at Yankees at 6:30 p.m. MT. Both games are on TBS. The National League Playoffs get underway on Saturday.
Wednesday, September 28, 2011
What a night of baseball
Nights like tonight are what make sports -- and baseball -- great. Going into the night there were four teams, fighting for two Wild Card spots. Out of the four games played, only one was a laugher. The St. Louis Cardinals (90-72) beat the Houston Astros (56-106) by a score of 8-0. Chris Carpenter went the distance for the Cards, who later would learn they had clinched the Wild Card.
The other three match-ups were really intense. The best game of the night was the Tampa Bay Rays (91-71) defeating the New York Yankees (97-65) in 12 innings by a score of 8-7. The Rays trailed 7-0 in the 8th inning before scoring 6 runs in that frame. Dan Johnson hit a game-tying home run with two strikes and two outs in the 9th inning. That was particularly clutch since the Red Sox were winning at the time and the Rays' season appeared to be on the line.
Evan Longoria capped it off with a walk-off homer in the 12th, his second of the game. I keep thinking of the old adage that big players make big plays in big games. That describes Longoria tonight. He was incredible and this included a nifty defensive play in the top of the 12th.
Longoria's home run catapulted the Rays to the Wild Card because literally three minutes earlier the Boston Red Sox (90-72) had lost to the Baltimore Orioles (69-93). The Orioles were down to their final out against Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon before back-to-back doubles tied it and a single won it. Papelbon is one of the best closers in the game and he couldn't nail it down tonight.
It was all literally unbelievable. The Rays were down 7 runs with 6 outs to go and came back to win. The odds of both happening on the same night with a playoff spot at stake are very long. It was just an incredible, exciting night of baseball.
The Atlanta Braves (89-73) lost 4-3 at home to the Philadelphia Phillies (102-60) in 13 innings. The Braves were just a couple outs away from winning in the top of the 9th before closer Craig Kimbrel coughed up the lead.
The Braves and Red Sox blew 8 1/2 and 9 game leads in September, the largest collapses in baseball history. And it sure made for an exciting night. It really is hard to put into words, but tonight is what baseball is all about. The playoffs start Friday. I'm ready.
The other three match-ups were really intense. The best game of the night was the Tampa Bay Rays (91-71) defeating the New York Yankees (97-65) in 12 innings by a score of 8-7. The Rays trailed 7-0 in the 8th inning before scoring 6 runs in that frame. Dan Johnson hit a game-tying home run with two strikes and two outs in the 9th inning. That was particularly clutch since the Red Sox were winning at the time and the Rays' season appeared to be on the line.
Evan Longoria capped it off with a walk-off homer in the 12th, his second of the game. I keep thinking of the old adage that big players make big plays in big games. That describes Longoria tonight. He was incredible and this included a nifty defensive play in the top of the 12th.
Longoria's home run catapulted the Rays to the Wild Card because literally three minutes earlier the Boston Red Sox (90-72) had lost to the Baltimore Orioles (69-93). The Orioles were down to their final out against Red Sox closer Jonathan Papelbon before back-to-back doubles tied it and a single won it. Papelbon is one of the best closers in the game and he couldn't nail it down tonight.
It was all literally unbelievable. The Rays were down 7 runs with 6 outs to go and came back to win. The odds of both happening on the same night with a playoff spot at stake are very long. It was just an incredible, exciting night of baseball.
The Atlanta Braves (89-73) lost 4-3 at home to the Philadelphia Phillies (102-60) in 13 innings. The Braves were just a couple outs away from winning in the top of the 9th before closer Craig Kimbrel coughed up the lead.
The Braves and Red Sox blew 8 1/2 and 9 game leads in September, the largest collapses in baseball history. And it sure made for an exciting night. It really is hard to put into words, but tonight is what baseball is all about. The playoffs start Friday. I'm ready.
Sunday, September 25, 2011
San Francisco Giants run as World Champions will end
The San Francisco Giants' (84-75) reign as World Champions will sadly come to an end. The Giants were officially eliminated from playoff contention with a 15-2 loss to the Arizona Diamondbacks (93-66), who won the National League West.
It's been a rough season for the Orange and Black on a lot of fronts, most notably that of the offense. Giving up 15 runs, as they did last night, was the extreme exception, not the norm. If the pitching had gone like last night, as Giants beat writer Andy Baggarly pointed out, the team could easily have lost 100 games this year.
The offense was that bad. First baseman Aubrey Huff was named the Least Valuable Player in the National League by a New York Times article after having a great season a year ago. Also performing worse than last year were, well, a number of players on offense.
Another big part of things was the injury bug, most notably affecting reigning Rookie of the Year Buster Posey, who was injured after being bowled over by Scott Cousins of the Florida Marlins (71-88) in May. But Posey was only one of several injuries, Huff was the only regular not to miss significant time due to injuries.
Despite everything, it's been a fun run as World Champions. I have thoroughly enjoyed referring to my team as the World Champion San Francisco Giants throughout this season. Winning the World Series is an incredible thing, and I'm glad my team was able to win it all. I'm also glad that I was able to thoroughly soak it up. Hopefully they will have another good run next year (with an improved offense).
It's been a rough season for the Orange and Black on a lot of fronts, most notably that of the offense. Giving up 15 runs, as they did last night, was the extreme exception, not the norm. If the pitching had gone like last night, as Giants beat writer Andy Baggarly pointed out, the team could easily have lost 100 games this year.
The offense was that bad. First baseman Aubrey Huff was named the Least Valuable Player in the National League by a New York Times article after having a great season a year ago. Also performing worse than last year were, well, a number of players on offense.
Another big part of things was the injury bug, most notably affecting reigning Rookie of the Year Buster Posey, who was injured after being bowled over by Scott Cousins of the Florida Marlins (71-88) in May. But Posey was only one of several injuries, Huff was the only regular not to miss significant time due to injuries.
Despite everything, it's been a fun run as World Champions. I have thoroughly enjoyed referring to my team as the World Champion San Francisco Giants throughout this season. Winning the World Series is an incredible thing, and I'm glad my team was able to win it all. I'm also glad that I was able to thoroughly soak it up. Hopefully they will have another good run next year (with an improved offense).
Wednesday, September 21, 2011
More on the Utes' big win
I thought BYU (1-2) played very sloppy the other night and that was a big part of the reason Utah was able to win by so much. I had picked BYU to win this game close at home and I was surprised by their lack of intensity and discipline, particularly in the second half. Utah (2-1, 0-1 Pac-12), though, should be given credit for applying the pressure as well as forcing and recovering them. Their skills and athleticism factoring into the win should also not be understated. Utah won the game big for a reason and forced a lot of those mistakes that BYU made.
It looked like once BYU got down by a few scores that their defense just threw in the towel, so to speak. The Utes appeared to just be trying to run the ball and take some time off the clock in the fourth quarter, but were unable to use a lot of time because they scored on a couple of long runs. It really looked to me like the defense laid down a bit. That's not acceptable from BYU's standpoint, but it is very gratifying to me as a Utah fan to see my team help bring its biggest rival to that point.
I thought Jordan Wynn was still a bit shaky at quarterback, especially for the better part of the first half. Wynn had one pass picked off and by all rights should have had another one intercepted had it not been for a BYU defender dropping a ball thrown right to him. However, I have to give Wynn credit for leading a couple of big touchdown drives late in the first half and early in the second half while the game was still in question. That shows a lot of heart.
On the other hand, I thought BYU quarterback Jake Heaps had a terrible game. I lost track of how many turnovers he had, but I know that there were at least a couple of egregious ones. Of particular note was his fumble on the Cougars' opening drive of the game when the snap went over his head. Instead of just falling on the ball, Heaps attempted to pick it up and when he failed to do so, the Utes pounced on it in the endzone for a quick touchdown. Had Heaps just fallen on the ball, BYU would have just had to punt, instead they were down 7-0.
It wasn't his only instance of poor judgement on the night. On top of that, he missed several open receivers that could have kept a number of BYU drives alive. I don't know if it would have made a difference in the long haul, but it certainly didn't help BYU's cause. I thought Heaps was going to have a great year, especially based on how strongly he finished out last season. His poor play is a bit of a shocker to me.
There is no doubt that Utah is a much better team. The Utes played harder and much more consistently than the Cougars and were able to substantially win the turnover battle. Additionally, it looked like Utah was simply more athletic and more talented than BYU; this especially became apparent in the second half.
It looked like once BYU got down by a few scores that their defense just threw in the towel, so to speak. The Utes appeared to just be trying to run the ball and take some time off the clock in the fourth quarter, but were unable to use a lot of time because they scored on a couple of long runs. It really looked to me like the defense laid down a bit. That's not acceptable from BYU's standpoint, but it is very gratifying to me as a Utah fan to see my team help bring its biggest rival to that point.
I thought Jordan Wynn was still a bit shaky at quarterback, especially for the better part of the first half. Wynn had one pass picked off and by all rights should have had another one intercepted had it not been for a BYU defender dropping a ball thrown right to him. However, I have to give Wynn credit for leading a couple of big touchdown drives late in the first half and early in the second half while the game was still in question. That shows a lot of heart.
On the other hand, I thought BYU quarterback Jake Heaps had a terrible game. I lost track of how many turnovers he had, but I know that there were at least a couple of egregious ones. Of particular note was his fumble on the Cougars' opening drive of the game when the snap went over his head. Instead of just falling on the ball, Heaps attempted to pick it up and when he failed to do so, the Utes pounced on it in the endzone for a quick touchdown. Had Heaps just fallen on the ball, BYU would have just had to punt, instead they were down 7-0.
It wasn't his only instance of poor judgement on the night. On top of that, he missed several open receivers that could have kept a number of BYU drives alive. I don't know if it would have made a difference in the long haul, but it certainly didn't help BYU's cause. I thought Heaps was going to have a great year, especially based on how strongly he finished out last season. His poor play is a bit of a shocker to me.
There is no doubt that Utah is a much better team. The Utes played harder and much more consistently than the Cougars and were able to substantially win the turnover battle. Additionally, it looked like Utah was simply more athletic and more talented than BYU; this especially became apparent in the second half.
Sunday, September 18, 2011
Utes throttle BYU
At left: The Utes celebrate their huge win in Provo.Utah (2-1, 0-1 Pac-12) defeated BYU (1-2) tonight in LaVell Edwards Stadium in Provo by a score of 54-10. It was the largest margin of victory the Utes have ever had in Provo. I had the pleasure of being at the game and without providing an exact order, I'd have to say it is easily one of my favorite sporting events I have ever attended.
The whole thing really was a stunner. I actually thought BYU would win this game, being at home as well as looking to avenge last year's 17-16 loss in Salt Lake City. I also didn't think there would be a ton of points from either team. When BYU turned the ball over three times in the first quarter and Utah only managed seven points out of it (on a defensive touchdown), I thought the Utes would have trouble scoring.
In fact, BYU led 10-7 with less than a minute to go in the first half. That is really hard to believe given the final score. The Utes scored before halftime and then turned into a buzzsaw for the second half. It literally was hard to keep track of all the touchdowns, as they kept rolling in at a very high rate.
It suffices me to say that Utah just played very well in all phases of the game (well, except the kicking game -- a missed field goal and extra point, but I'll look past that for now), especially in the second half. I honestly didn't know the Utes had that in them.
It was the first time I have been at a Utah victory in Provo and I was soaking it up. There is just something about beating your biggest rival on their homefield that is just a great thing. It's a great time to be a Ute. As a Utah fan, it was also fun seeing the stadium rapidly empty out starting late in the third quarter. It was just a really good night at the game.
On another note, I liked both teams wearing their home uniforms. The colors contrast enough to make it work. I'm told that is the theme for the 2011-2012 year as part of the Deseret Duel between the two schools. I hope the Utes and Cougars continue to both wear their home uniforms against each other in the future.
It's late, so I'm not going to get into all the details, but tonight was one of those nights where it was really rewarding to be a loyal fan to a team. I love my Utes! Way to go!
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