First off, http://www.michaelkanick.com,, the site for all things me, is on a momentary hold and will still be the source for all things Mike soon.
Secondly, I have had a blog now for 1 YEAR. I'm amazed at how fast time flies. to celebrate, I'm actualy posting today. No news of note except the anniversare de Mikepoint.
Yes, I think that was French.
Anyways, check out the blog de Margaret (in the Links section under "a cooler mk") - she's got cool shite and a rundown of her interesting and cool life.
In the words of Dub-b... "peas".
Tuesday, October 25, 2005
Tuesday, October 04, 2005
So, yeah, and stuff
So, I've decided I don't like Blogger anymore, and that if I had my own spot on the web, with a full site, i'd be more inclined to update.
So, from now on, go to www.michaelkanick.com for all things me. The site should be up soon, but keep an eye out. This will probably be the last official post here, and I will probably just edit it once the other site goes live.
Thanks for listening/reading.
Addendum: Congrats to my bro for being part of the team that broke the CFHS record for lowest round of 9 for a team. Great Job Ry! See his "Ink" here
So, from now on, go to www.michaelkanick.com for all things me. The site should be up soon, but keep an eye out. This will probably be the last official post here, and I will probably just edit it once the other site goes live.
Thanks for listening/reading.
Addendum: Congrats to my bro for being part of the team that broke the CFHS record for lowest round of 9 for a team. Great Job Ry! See his "Ink" here
Friday, August 05, 2005
SUNY Oswego makes it to SI.com
Yes ladies and gents, the famous bagel throwing hockey fans made it to Sports Illustrated.
You can read all about it/see a picture Here - I won't spoil it for you.
I will say this, however - the article isn't entirely correct. We didn't just come up with this whacky idea for no reason, or because of a shutout. Oswego-Plattsburgh is THE SUNY hockey rivalry. Whenever Plattsburgh scored their first goal against Oswego during the games at Plattsburgh, they students always threw Tennis Balls onto the ice, because Oswego's away Uni's are all green. We wanted revenge, Plattsburgh's mascot is a Cardinal, and bread doesn't fly well. Enter the bagel.
How do I know this? I was there. Not often you can say that for something, but I still remember little Joey Storch and I stealing bagels from the dining hall to toss. Good times.
GO LAKERS! Section KAH lives on...
You can read all about it/see a picture Here - I won't spoil it for you.
I will say this, however - the article isn't entirely correct. We didn't just come up with this whacky idea for no reason, or because of a shutout. Oswego-Plattsburgh is THE SUNY hockey rivalry. Whenever Plattsburgh scored their first goal against Oswego during the games at Plattsburgh, they students always threw Tennis Balls onto the ice, because Oswego's away Uni's are all green. We wanted revenge, Plattsburgh's mascot is a Cardinal, and bread doesn't fly well. Enter the bagel.
How do I know this? I was there. Not often you can say that for something, but I still remember little Joey Storch and I stealing bagels from the dining hall to toss. Good times.
GO LAKERS! Section KAH lives on...
Tuesday, August 02, 2005
Mike makes it on ESPN
No, it wasn't for a unique sporting accomplishment.
Mike, being the Hockey nut he is, always reads and occaisionally writes to John Buccigross, the Hockey guru and utility TV man at ESPN (he has been pinch hitting on Baseball Tonight). Despite what you may think of writing to columnsts and their responses, Bucci has been one cool dude - not only does he post and reply in his column, but he also will return other interesting e-mails that don't make the column.
You can find John's latest column (and Mike's mention) Here .
Thanks to Bucci for throwing Mike in the column and keep an eye out for your favorite NHL team to open camp in September and drop the puck in October.
Mike, being the Hockey nut he is, always reads and occaisionally writes to John Buccigross, the Hockey guru and utility TV man at ESPN (he has been pinch hitting on Baseball Tonight). Despite what you may think of writing to columnsts and their responses, Bucci has been one cool dude - not only does he post and reply in his column, but he also will return other interesting e-mails that don't make the column.
You can find John's latest column (and Mike's mention) Here .
Thanks to Bucci for throwing Mike in the column and keep an eye out for your favorite NHL team to open camp in September and drop the puck in October.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Welcome Back, Old Friend
For as long as I can remember, I have enjoyed Hockey. I started, like every kid, watching with my dad. He was a Rangers fan, so I grew to love the boys in Blue as well. My first hockey jersey was even a hand-me-down - one of my dad's old jersey's from his beer-league days. I remember Messier's guarantee. I remember game 7 versus the Devils. Then the entire finals against Pavel Bure and the Canucks. I remember the emotion of them succeeding so many years after the last time they did.
When my little brother got older and started liking hockey too, we used to have "Guys Nights". Once or twice a season the three of us would go get a nice dinner and then head to a Binghamton Rangers game. It was great for me because, not only did I get to share the experience with them, but I got to watch all the future Rangers play. I went on to college, and my Hockey life grew there, too. Regular season games were free, and Oswego was pretty good - usually in the top 10 in the nation for D3. There were no bad seats in the house, and I can hardly remember missing a game.
When Hockey reached a labor impasse last year, it was like watching a friend go away for a while. All those games I would watch, the cheering, the excitement, the experience, they were all gone. So you can imagine how happy I am that Hockey is back.
I don't know even if it will be on TV. I'm pretty sure the Rangers will not be good. But I'm excited that I will be able to watch (even if it's only one or two games, in person), and read and hear about Hockey again. My friend is back. Welcome home.
When my little brother got older and started liking hockey too, we used to have "Guys Nights". Once or twice a season the three of us would go get a nice dinner and then head to a Binghamton Rangers game. It was great for me because, not only did I get to share the experience with them, but I got to watch all the future Rangers play. I went on to college, and my Hockey life grew there, too. Regular season games were free, and Oswego was pretty good - usually in the top 10 in the nation for D3. There were no bad seats in the house, and I can hardly remember missing a game.
When Hockey reached a labor impasse last year, it was like watching a friend go away for a while. All those games I would watch, the cheering, the excitement, the experience, they were all gone. So you can imagine how happy I am that Hockey is back.
I don't know even if it will be on TV. I'm pretty sure the Rangers will not be good. But I'm excited that I will be able to watch (even if it's only one or two games, in person), and read and hear about Hockey again. My friend is back. Welcome home.
Monday, July 25, 2005
The Psychology of a Losing Streak
No, I’m not trying to be Tom Cruise, nor can I go jump on Oprah’s couch to discuss this one. But I am going to bring up what I will call the Reverse RFK Effect.
That’s right, I named it. And for good reason, too. All year we’ve heard how RFK helps the Nats. The deep fields, the mislabeled distances, the fact that it was so different from other parks around the league set others off balance. We were used to it. They weren’t. If the fans are the 10th man on the baseball team, RFK is the quiet, unobtrusive 11th – one more tool we could use to beat other teams who were used to power hitter friendly confines.
When the Nats were winning, confident, even when they were underdogs, this played into their mentality beautifully. Now, however, mired in the worst streak of the season (3-8 since the all start break, 4-10 counting the last series before the break) I think RFK did the reverse to the Nats – in this past home stand, it hurt them.
Now, before you lambaste me like folks lambasted Tommy boy (deservedly), let me explain. Those of you who have participated in team sports, especially a team that is close knit, will have a better understanding of where I am coming from. These guys love each other. This is a team not born from talent, but born from a common desire to win and to not let one another down. When one of the guys starts to slump, the other guys want to perform better to pick him up. The more guys who start to slump, the more the other guys try to carry the team. We see this a lot in sports. The problem here is that baseball is a true team sport. To score runs, you must have guys on base – games are not one on solo home runs alone – at least, not very often.
When they start to press, though, the home run, the big hit, the double off the wall becomes the goal – not the single to get on base. This is where the Reverse RFK Effect comes into play. RFK is bar-none the hardest park in the league to hit home runs in. RFK is where long drives go to die. RFK is a singles park, or a double in the gap – that’s how the Nats won so many in the first half. But when they start to press, when Jose Guillen and Brad Wilkerson start thinking they need to crush every ball to make up for injuries and slumps, the team runs into this kind of stretch where we lost 2 of 3 from the MLB worst Rockies and got lucky in one game (Thank You, Willy Taveras) to not get swept by Houston. The swing at bad pitches. They expand the strike zone. They put so much weight on themselves to succeed that they are crushed in clutch situations. And RFK makes it worse by making those one or two pitches you might actually get a hold of into long fly ball outs, not homeruns or doubles off the wall.
The Reverse RFK Effect.
Will they come out of it? I think so. The question is, how long before they do? The Atlanta series (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) is ill-timed. I would have rather been in Miami against the Marlins for those days and then hit Hotlanta over the weekend. These are the stretches that separate the good teams from the bad, however. If the Nats can take 2 of 3 from Atlanta, they’ll be fine. If not, we may be in for a hot, sticky, sub .500 August.
From Nationals Pride
That’s right, I named it. And for good reason, too. All year we’ve heard how RFK helps the Nats. The deep fields, the mislabeled distances, the fact that it was so different from other parks around the league set others off balance. We were used to it. They weren’t. If the fans are the 10th man on the baseball team, RFK is the quiet, unobtrusive 11th – one more tool we could use to beat other teams who were used to power hitter friendly confines.
When the Nats were winning, confident, even when they were underdogs, this played into their mentality beautifully. Now, however, mired in the worst streak of the season (3-8 since the all start break, 4-10 counting the last series before the break) I think RFK did the reverse to the Nats – in this past home stand, it hurt them.
Now, before you lambaste me like folks lambasted Tommy boy (deservedly), let me explain. Those of you who have participated in team sports, especially a team that is close knit, will have a better understanding of where I am coming from. These guys love each other. This is a team not born from talent, but born from a common desire to win and to not let one another down. When one of the guys starts to slump, the other guys want to perform better to pick him up. The more guys who start to slump, the more the other guys try to carry the team. We see this a lot in sports. The problem here is that baseball is a true team sport. To score runs, you must have guys on base – games are not one on solo home runs alone – at least, not very often.
When they start to press, though, the home run, the big hit, the double off the wall becomes the goal – not the single to get on base. This is where the Reverse RFK Effect comes into play. RFK is bar-none the hardest park in the league to hit home runs in. RFK is where long drives go to die. RFK is a singles park, or a double in the gap – that’s how the Nats won so many in the first half. But when they start to press, when Jose Guillen and Brad Wilkerson start thinking they need to crush every ball to make up for injuries and slumps, the team runs into this kind of stretch where we lost 2 of 3 from the MLB worst Rockies and got lucky in one game (Thank You, Willy Taveras) to not get swept by Houston. The swing at bad pitches. They expand the strike zone. They put so much weight on themselves to succeed that they are crushed in clutch situations. And RFK makes it worse by making those one or two pitches you might actually get a hold of into long fly ball outs, not homeruns or doubles off the wall.
The Reverse RFK Effect.
Will they come out of it? I think so. The question is, how long before they do? The Atlanta series (Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday) is ill-timed. I would have rather been in Miami against the Marlins for those days and then hit Hotlanta over the weekend. These are the stretches that separate the good teams from the bad, however. If the Nats can take 2 of 3 from Atlanta, they’ll be fine. If not, we may be in for a hot, sticky, sub .500 August.
From Nationals Pride
Thursday, July 14, 2005
Preston Wilson?
Yes, I know Jim Bowden knows more than I do. I still have a right to question, however. At the time of this writing, Wilson was (in the hitter friendly confines of Colorado, no less) hitting .258, with a meager .322 on base percentage (OBP) and was slugging around .491. Yes, these numbers are also close to his career averages. How, then, will he transfer to the Nationals, especially in a ballpark where long balls go to die? I understand this is a team built on pitching and defense, but the rationale for adding Wilson was to add pop to the lineup, and I don’t see much… especially considering he was in the top 10 in the NL for strikeouts. We dumped Endy Chavez for being a free swinger, so why did we grab Wilson? I’m willing to wait this one out before giving a final verdict, but I gotta say, I’m skeptical of this one.
I do, however, like the Mike Stanton pickup. The Nats bullpen was getting tired, and in this signing they got a serviceable pitcher on the cheap with a good track record and he’s another lefty. In fact, Lefties were hitting around .150 against him (righties hit around .480) so we now have a left handed specialist to get out guys like Carlos Delgado and a guy who can eat an inning or two if the team gets behind.
I’m waiting for the next deal though. Bowden keeps preaching pitching, yet we have had two trades (Spivey and Wilson) were we gave up a pitcher for a hitter. Sure, we’d never have Spivey if Ryan Drese hadn’t been there, but we are getting closer to the point where we might need a more experienced starter who can go deeper into games.
If only we could clone Livan Hernandez.
Until next time, see you on the message boards. Sign the Petition!
From Nationals Pride
I do, however, like the Mike Stanton pickup. The Nats bullpen was getting tired, and in this signing they got a serviceable pitcher on the cheap with a good track record and he’s another lefty. In fact, Lefties were hitting around .150 against him (righties hit around .480) so we now have a left handed specialist to get out guys like Carlos Delgado and a guy who can eat an inning or two if the team gets behind.
I’m waiting for the next deal though. Bowden keeps preaching pitching, yet we have had two trades (Spivey and Wilson) were we gave up a pitcher for a hitter. Sure, we’d never have Spivey if Ryan Drese hadn’t been there, but we are getting closer to the point where we might need a more experienced starter who can go deeper into games.
If only we could clone Livan Hernandez.
Until next time, see you on the message boards. Sign the Petition!
From Nationals Pride
Wednesday, July 06, 2005
Who's your new Daddy?
Who’s your new Daddy?
Yes, that’s right – it’s the column that neither Pedro nor Ian wanted to see!
I want to start a movement. We beat Pedro. Jose Guillen went 3-3. Nats are the tops of the NL East. We’re Pedro’s new daddy.
Yes, I know – this is the first time Pedro pitched against the Nats as a Met. I also know that the Yanks are his real daddies. But – the Nationals are about rebirth – new season, new team, no more Expos. Their record this season proves that. Pedro is also having a rebirth, one in a Mets uniform. You know what a rebirth means… He needs a new Daddy.
Anyone in for t-shirts?
Injuries
We look to be on an upswing – Vidro back, Johnson soon to follow, and Church after that. I’m making the call today – if we can get a good, serviceable starting pitcher, the Nats have a great shot at the Division or the Wild Card. Remember – the majority of the rest of their games are at home, where they have the best record in MLB, and even if they go .500 the rest of the way it’s still a 90+ win season.
From Nationals Pride
Yes, that’s right – it’s the column that neither Pedro nor Ian wanted to see!
I want to start a movement. We beat Pedro. Jose Guillen went 3-3. Nats are the tops of the NL East. We’re Pedro’s new daddy.
Yes, I know – this is the first time Pedro pitched against the Nats as a Met. I also know that the Yanks are his real daddies. But – the Nationals are about rebirth – new season, new team, no more Expos. Their record this season proves that. Pedro is also having a rebirth, one in a Mets uniform. You know what a rebirth means… He needs a new Daddy.
Anyone in for t-shirts?
Injuries
We look to be on an upswing – Vidro back, Johnson soon to follow, and Church after that. I’m making the call today – if we can get a good, serviceable starting pitcher, the Nats have a great shot at the Division or the Wild Card. Remember – the majority of the rest of their games are at home, where they have the best record in MLB, and even if they go .500 the rest of the way it’s still a 90+ win season.
From Nationals Pride
Monday, June 27, 2005
Run Differential
I’m tired of hearing that stat. It’s killing me. You check the newspaper, you turn on the radio, you watch Baseball Tonight on ESPN, you hear about run differential. Everyone says “blah blah blah, the Nats are overrated since they have a negative run differential. There is zero chance they’ll make the playoffs, no one with a negative RD makes the playoffs.”
Wrong.
I quote Mr. Tom Boswell, from his weekly Nats e-mail, courtesy of Washington Post – “ First, what is the best result ever by a team that has ever been outscored for the season? Answer: The ' 87 Minnesota Twins were outscored by 20 runs, but won the AL West, then won the World Series. If anybody says the Nats can't possibly go to the playoffs with such a statistically unimpressive team, tell 'em Washington just might win the Series, because it's already been done.”
He also offers a list of teams that (recently) were very like the Nats.
· The '97 Giants (-9) won the N.L. West title.
· The '95 Rockies and '95 Dodgers were only +2 and +25 respectively, but Colorado was the wild card and the Dodgers won the N.L. West.
· The '90 Red Sox were just +35 but won the A.L. East.
· The '89 Orioles , another team managed by Frank Robinson, only outscored the league by 22 runs. But they went 87-75 and stayed in the pennant chase until the final weekend.
· The '87 Expos were a paltry +21 but won 91 games.
· The '85 Reds were +11 but won 89.
· The '84 Royals were -13 but won the AL West.
Yes, the Nats are a long-shot contender. No, I don’t expect them to meet up with Minnesota in the World Series (did I just say Minnesota?). But it’s time for people like Peter Gammons of ESPN, John Donovan of Sports Illustrated and even our own Boz to stop dogging them about run differential and realize that RFK is so unlike any other stadium in the league, and Run Differential may just not apply to a team that plays 81 games there, instead of crazy home-run parks like Camden and Fenway.
It’s time for them to go back to school… the old school. And Frankie Rob’s team is teaching the class.
A WORD TO THE NATS MARKETING FOLKS
I appreciate the Nats e-mails from nationals.com, but please don’t mass disperse an e-mail about renting the luxury box behind home plate. 90% of your recipients cannot afford the 3 grand to rent the place for one game. Most folks pay less than that for 2 season tickets. Target some corporate clients if you need it used. A word to the wise, though – all that does is remind the normal, everyday folks of how many things at a ballpark they cannot afford in any decent sized quantity – like $6 beers and $8 poorly made chicken fingers, let alone the over-priced replica jerseys.
From Nationals Pride
Wrong.
I quote Mr. Tom Boswell, from his weekly Nats e-mail, courtesy of Washington Post – “ First, what is the best result ever by a team that has ever been outscored for the season? Answer: The ' 87 Minnesota Twins were outscored by 20 runs, but won the AL West, then won the World Series. If anybody says the Nats can't possibly go to the playoffs with such a statistically unimpressive team, tell 'em Washington just might win the Series, because it's already been done.”
He also offers a list of teams that (recently) were very like the Nats.
· The '97 Giants (-9) won the N.L. West title.
· The '95 Rockies and '95 Dodgers were only +2 and +25 respectively, but Colorado was the wild card and the Dodgers won the N.L. West.
· The '90 Red Sox were just +35 but won the A.L. East.
· The '89 Orioles , another team managed by Frank Robinson, only outscored the league by 22 runs. But they went 87-75 and stayed in the pennant chase until the final weekend.
· The '87 Expos were a paltry +21 but won 91 games.
· The '85 Reds were +11 but won 89.
· The '84 Royals were -13 but won the AL West.
Yes, the Nats are a long-shot contender. No, I don’t expect them to meet up with Minnesota in the World Series (did I just say Minnesota?). But it’s time for people like Peter Gammons of ESPN, John Donovan of Sports Illustrated and even our own Boz to stop dogging them about run differential and realize that RFK is so unlike any other stadium in the league, and Run Differential may just not apply to a team that plays 81 games there, instead of crazy home-run parks like Camden and Fenway.
It’s time for them to go back to school… the old school. And Frankie Rob’s team is teaching the class.
A WORD TO THE NATS MARKETING FOLKS
I appreciate the Nats e-mails from nationals.com, but please don’t mass disperse an e-mail about renting the luxury box behind home plate. 90% of your recipients cannot afford the 3 grand to rent the place for one game. Most folks pay less than that for 2 season tickets. Target some corporate clients if you need it used. A word to the wise, though – all that does is remind the normal, everyday folks of how many things at a ballpark they cannot afford in any decent sized quantity – like $6 beers and $8 poorly made chicken fingers, let alone the over-priced replica jerseys.
From Nationals Pride
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Stunned
One word says it all. No one, not even a poor pundit like myself, could have ever predicted the Nats would be on fire this much. They have won 14 of their last 16 and still retain sole possession of the NL East lead.
The more amazing part, however, is how they are doing it. They pick up Ryan Drese off waivers from Texas, who was 4-6 with a 6.46 ERA, and turn him around to pitch against an AL team that he had faced before (Texas is in the same division as Anaheim) and he throws an 8 inning 2 hit shutout. His ERA after that performance dropped almost a run. Granted, this performance may not continue, but I refer you to the fact that AL pitchers going to the NL almost always have a huge drop in ERA and perform better. For reference see Clemens, Roger and Martinez, Pedro. Also, Drese is a sinkerball pitcher, meaning he gets a lot of ground balls. The Nats are exceptional defensively, so between his propensity for ground balls and the friendly, no homer confines of RFK, he should be fine as a 5th starter.
What really gets me is the performance of Chad “chief” Cordero. He comes on last night with a 1-0 lead, promptly loads the bases – you read that correctly – with NO OUTS – you also read that correctly – and still gets out of the inning. He struck out two and gave up a pop fly that wasn’t deep enough for Darrin “linebacker” Erstad to tag up and bum rush another NL East Catcher.
Watching these games is more exhilarating than a Ridley Scott opus. Oh wait – we couldn’t watch last night. You’re right, ESPN2 broadcast the game, but it was blocked in the DC area by Comcast for Comcast subscribers using the local viewing rights exemption (despite no local broadcaster showing it) as a new ploy in their legal battle with MASN. When will they realize that the public doesn’t care who wins this battle, as long as they can see the Nats? I hear more people blaming Comcast for not showing the games than MASN.
SIDE NOTE – Carlos Baerga, don’t be mad at me for what I’m going to say. You’re a great part of the Nats and have defined “clutch” several times this season. But dude – when you run – I laugh uncontrollably. I giggle like a schoolgirl. You run like your legs are two little pistons, and it looks like you take 3 steps per foot of ground you cover. I point this out when noticeable and other people giggle too. My dad loved it, so when he watches the Nats now he always looks for it. Don’t be mad, Carlos, and keep up the good work. If you hear laughter when you run, it’s just me. Don’t worry.
From Nationals Pride
The more amazing part, however, is how they are doing it. They pick up Ryan Drese off waivers from Texas, who was 4-6 with a 6.46 ERA, and turn him around to pitch against an AL team that he had faced before (Texas is in the same division as Anaheim) and he throws an 8 inning 2 hit shutout. His ERA after that performance dropped almost a run. Granted, this performance may not continue, but I refer you to the fact that AL pitchers going to the NL almost always have a huge drop in ERA and perform better. For reference see Clemens, Roger and Martinez, Pedro. Also, Drese is a sinkerball pitcher, meaning he gets a lot of ground balls. The Nats are exceptional defensively, so between his propensity for ground balls and the friendly, no homer confines of RFK, he should be fine as a 5th starter.
What really gets me is the performance of Chad “chief” Cordero. He comes on last night with a 1-0 lead, promptly loads the bases – you read that correctly – with NO OUTS – you also read that correctly – and still gets out of the inning. He struck out two and gave up a pop fly that wasn’t deep enough for Darrin “linebacker” Erstad to tag up and bum rush another NL East Catcher.
Watching these games is more exhilarating than a Ridley Scott opus. Oh wait – we couldn’t watch last night. You’re right, ESPN2 broadcast the game, but it was blocked in the DC area by Comcast for Comcast subscribers using the local viewing rights exemption (despite no local broadcaster showing it) as a new ploy in their legal battle with MASN. When will they realize that the public doesn’t care who wins this battle, as long as they can see the Nats? I hear more people blaming Comcast for not showing the games than MASN.
SIDE NOTE – Carlos Baerga, don’t be mad at me for what I’m going to say. You’re a great part of the Nats and have defined “clutch” several times this season. But dude – when you run – I laugh uncontrollably. I giggle like a schoolgirl. You run like your legs are two little pistons, and it looks like you take 3 steps per foot of ground you cover. I point this out when noticeable and other people giggle too. My dad loved it, so when he watches the Nats now he always looks for it. Don’t be mad, Carlos, and keep up the good work. If you hear laughter when you run, it’s just me. Don’t worry.
From Nationals Pride
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Congratulations, NBA
You have now assured yourself of the most boring NBA final EVER. Since, you know, Detroit and San Antonio are such TV hotbeds, ratings will be through the roof. That, and Ben and Rasheed Wallace are just as interesting as Shaq and Dwayne Wade.
Oh wait, no, they're not. On all counts.
Now, instead of having the backdrop of South Beach and an offensively minded final, we'll drop back to defense and have 5 or 6 82-76 games. The spurs were interesting in the Western Conference Final because they played up tempo basketball to compete with the Suns, somethign they would have done against Shaq and co. Now that they'll be playing Detroit, Poppo will revert his team to boring, defensive wonders.
That, and we all know how Tim Duncan, as good as he is, is Milquetoast compared to Shaq. No one wants to tune in to watch TD, because he has a bland personality. They want to see Shaq yell "Can You Dig It" at the top of his lungs.
So, congratulations, NBA. Going into a CBA contract year with the players, and staring in the face of an NHL-style lockout, you'll top off a good playoff year with one of the most boring finals of all time.
In the words of Leonardo Leonardo - "well played".
Oh wait, no, they're not. On all counts.
Now, instead of having the backdrop of South Beach and an offensively minded final, we'll drop back to defense and have 5 or 6 82-76 games. The spurs were interesting in the Western Conference Final because they played up tempo basketball to compete with the Suns, somethign they would have done against Shaq and co. Now that they'll be playing Detroit, Poppo will revert his team to boring, defensive wonders.
That, and we all know how Tim Duncan, as good as he is, is Milquetoast compared to Shaq. No one wants to tune in to watch TD, because he has a bland personality. They want to see Shaq yell "Can You Dig It" at the top of his lungs.
So, congratulations, NBA. Going into a CBA contract year with the players, and staring in the face of an NHL-style lockout, you'll top off a good playoff year with one of the most boring finals of all time.
In the words of Leonardo Leonardo - "well played".
Monday, June 06, 2005
First Place
I know, I know, it won’t last, but it sure sounds nice, doesn’t it? The first time a DC team has been in first this late in a season since 1933. They went on to win the pennant. Now, I don’t think that will happen this year, but we’ll at least challenge down the stretch. It’s good for baseball and it’s good for DC, whose fans deserve a team that can get them all on their collective feet.
A word about Marlon Byrd. I wasn’t there Saturday night, but I was watching at home. I won’t comment on what MLB will do ( I have no basis to judge) but I will back up Frank Robinson on his statement – with the team hurting (Wilkerson hurting, Guillen hit by a pitch in the hand) the LAST thing Byrd should have done was get himself ejected and then probably suspended for multiple games.
Finally, A word on stadium chants – Most of them I get, and we all seem to have fun with. I question, however, the “Day-o” chant. What purpose does it serve? Where does it come from? We go to the games, we all cheer “day-o” and none of us knows why. Can someone explain this? Best answer on the message board might win a prize.
From Nationals Pride
A word about Marlon Byrd. I wasn’t there Saturday night, but I was watching at home. I won’t comment on what MLB will do ( I have no basis to judge) but I will back up Frank Robinson on his statement – with the team hurting (Wilkerson hurting, Guillen hit by a pitch in the hand) the LAST thing Byrd should have done was get himself ejected and then probably suspended for multiple games.
Finally, A word on stadium chants – Most of them I get, and we all seem to have fun with. I question, however, the “Day-o” chant. What purpose does it serve? Where does it come from? We go to the games, we all cheer “day-o” and none of us knows why. Can someone explain this? Best answer on the message board might win a prize.
From Nationals Pride
Tuesday, May 31, 2005
Poll
I have this new theory.
It's that no one reads these things anymore, and therefore no one posts anymore - if you think I haven't written in a long time, you should check out some friends' blogs.
So for that reason only, I ask of you - post a message, send an email, let me know if you actually read this or not - I don't want to be posting random thoughts for no one to look at.
thanks!
It's that no one reads these things anymore, and therefore no one posts anymore - if you think I haven't written in a long time, you should check out some friends' blogs.
So for that reason only, I ask of you - post a message, send an email, let me know if you actually read this or not - I don't want to be posting random thoughts for no one to look at.
thanks!
Thursday, May 26, 2005
Nats Ownership News?
Straight from Jayson Stark’s “rumblings and grumblings” on ESPN.com, here’s some Nats Ownership news. I’d link to it, but you gotta be an Insider, kids.
“Major League Baseball will finally get moving next week on finding the Nationals an owner. MLB has set the end of May as the deadline for the nine known bidders to submit their bids.
So how did baseball get around the continuing uncertainty about the future of the new regional sports network which will theoretically air both Orioles and Nationals games?
Groups were instructed to make one bid with the assumption that the network will get off the ground as scheduled – and one based on the possibility it won't exist at all.”
Hopefully this news might get the team to hit again. Probably not. On this I defer to Thomas Boswell of the Washington Post – “ Right now, if you rolled a bowling ball through the on-deck circle, Brad Wilkerson would run over and swing at it. And, if there were men on base, he'd probably miss.”
From Nationals Pride
“Major League Baseball will finally get moving next week on finding the Nationals an owner. MLB has set the end of May as the deadline for the nine known bidders to submit their bids.
So how did baseball get around the continuing uncertainty about the future of the new regional sports network which will theoretically air both Orioles and Nationals games?
Groups were instructed to make one bid with the assumption that the network will get off the ground as scheduled – and one based on the possibility it won't exist at all.”
Hopefully this news might get the team to hit again. Probably not. On this I defer to Thomas Boswell of the Washington Post – “ Right now, if you rolled a bowling ball through the on-deck circle, Brad Wilkerson would run over and swing at it. And, if there were men on base, he'd probably miss.”
From Nationals Pride
Monday, May 16, 2005
Trade Central
Well, the trade for a centerfielder discussed in my last column has finally occurred. Not whom we suspected it would be, however – Endy Chavez to the Phils for Marlon Byrd. Though I was surprised, I like this trade for several reasons:
We keep the speed Chavez had.
We get a potentially better bat – someone with the ability to muscle a few if needed.
An experienced, true centerfielder.
This gives the Nats the ability to play Wilkerson in left, his true position, and have a speedy CF to track down balls alongside him. With the loss of Termel Sledge to a hammy injury, this will allow Ryan Church to back up at any side of the field and let Perennial Prospect Jeffrey Hammonds go elsewhere. Also, if Byrd can get used to waiting in pitches and working the count (something Chavez seemed allergic too) he could lead off, allowing Wilkerson to move back and be the RBI machine he can be deeper in a lineup.
Below follows a scouting report from our friends at ESPN.
“Although the Phillies projected Byrd as a potential power hitter, his bat seems to have slowed since his breakthrough season at Double-A in 2001. While fast enough to beat out slow rollers and strong enough to muscle the ball over the infield when jammed, he doesn't work pitchers well and doesn't make the kind of consistent, solid contact that is needed to play regularly. Byrd can track down flyballs over his head or into the gaps. But he has lost his aggressiveness on the bases, attempting only four steals last season despite good speed. He has an average arm.”
From Nationals Pride
We keep the speed Chavez had.
We get a potentially better bat – someone with the ability to muscle a few if needed.
An experienced, true centerfielder.
This gives the Nats the ability to play Wilkerson in left, his true position, and have a speedy CF to track down balls alongside him. With the loss of Termel Sledge to a hammy injury, this will allow Ryan Church to back up at any side of the field and let Perennial Prospect Jeffrey Hammonds go elsewhere. Also, if Byrd can get used to waiting in pitches and working the count (something Chavez seemed allergic too) he could lead off, allowing Wilkerson to move back and be the RBI machine he can be deeper in a lineup.
Below follows a scouting report from our friends at ESPN.
“Although the Phillies projected Byrd as a potential power hitter, his bat seems to have slowed since his breakthrough season at Double-A in 2001. While fast enough to beat out slow rollers and strong enough to muscle the ball over the infield when jammed, he doesn't work pitchers well and doesn't make the kind of consistent, solid contact that is needed to play regularly. Byrd can track down flyballs over his head or into the gaps. But he has lost his aggressiveness on the bases, attempting only four steals last season despite good speed. He has an average arm.”
From Nationals Pride
Thursday, May 12, 2005
Truth and Rumors... Back Again
Last time it was about the GM, this time it’s about… Centerfield. The new Nats rumor swirling around has them trading for Preston Wilson. Granted, the rumors don’t have any consensus on who the Nats would be giving up, but the usual suspects are named – Tomo Okha and Zach Day.
My take? Iffy. I know that Wilkerson is not a natural centerfielder and that we need a true center man but I don’t think that, if we are going to give up one of our two best trade baits it should be for a guy hitting .240 so far in the hitting confines of Coors Field. .240 there is like .210 here, and that’s just not acceptable. Plus, aside from Ryan Church being a true centerfielder and developing well for a younger guy, the Nats would have to have the Rocks pay all of the 12 million owed to Wilson for this season… something I doubt they’d be willing to do.
If I was Jim Bowden, I’d hang on to Okha, Day and Endy Chavez for a bit longer and deal them for a better hitting centerfielder who might come on the market. June and July will be more fertile trading time, and there are bad teams who need pitching that would get us a better CF than Wilson – even Kansas City’s David Dejesus is younger than Wilson with better stats… and lord knows the Royals need the help right now.
And before you go jumping all over me on the Nats budget – Bud Selig said today that they plan to have the team sold buy mid-summer, but even if they didn’t, the Nats would have the flexibility to add payroll if they were in the race by mid-summer. They stay close now and they’ll be fine in July.
From Nationals Pride
My take? Iffy. I know that Wilkerson is not a natural centerfielder and that we need a true center man but I don’t think that, if we are going to give up one of our two best trade baits it should be for a guy hitting .240 so far in the hitting confines of Coors Field. .240 there is like .210 here, and that’s just not acceptable. Plus, aside from Ryan Church being a true centerfielder and developing well for a younger guy, the Nats would have to have the Rocks pay all of the 12 million owed to Wilson for this season… something I doubt they’d be willing to do.
If I was Jim Bowden, I’d hang on to Okha, Day and Endy Chavez for a bit longer and deal them for a better hitting centerfielder who might come on the market. June and July will be more fertile trading time, and there are bad teams who need pitching that would get us a better CF than Wilson – even Kansas City’s David Dejesus is younger than Wilson with better stats… and lord knows the Royals need the help right now.
And before you go jumping all over me on the Nats budget – Bud Selig said today that they plan to have the team sold buy mid-summer, but even if they didn’t, the Nats would have the flexibility to add payroll if they were in the race by mid-summer. They stay close now and they’ll be fine in July.
From Nationals Pride
Monday, May 02, 2005
Beat the Mets, Beat the Mets
Yes, I know, with the Nats taking 2 of 3 from the Mets at home I should be discussing the team. With Eischen out 12 weeks with a broken arm, I should be discussing the team.
Am I going to discuss the team? Later. Right now I am going to discuss tarp. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, those of you in attendance Saturday night (I mean you, BKKE – I saw you leading the cheers) saw one of the funniest uses of tarp in a stadium… EVER. Going out for the 2nd rain delay (after which, they called the game) the grounds crew made a poor fold of the tarp… that lead to 45 minutes of wet and wild hi-jinx that made RFK look like a giant Slip n’ Slide. The poor guys had to enlist the help of food vendors, parking attendant, and the janitorial crew to get the tarp unfurled and placed over the field. A few fans even tried to help, which led to them being escorted off the field to the chants of “let them go, let them go”. I had almost as much fun watching the “National Tarp Pull” (as stated by the scoreboard) as I did the rest of the game.
OK, on to the team. 2 of 3 from the Mets is good. Losing Eischen is bad. That makes, for my count, 3 of the bullpen down (add in Horgan and Tucker). Eischen is easily the wizened old man of the pen, and losing his experience and steady left arm is hard. Plus, there is now no left hander in the ‘pen, let alone a proven one. Look for the Nats to be scouring the MLB unemployed for the lefty, as I don’t think they have one in AAA that’s ready for the NL east’s batters.
Downside? We may slip a few games farther back of the fish. Upside? Eischen was leading MLB relievers in innings pitched, so the rest will get him fresh for the August/September push. Let’s hope we’ll be able to make it to August and still be close.
Am I going to discuss the team? Later. Right now I am going to discuss tarp. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, those of you in attendance Saturday night (I mean you, BKKE – I saw you leading the cheers) saw one of the funniest uses of tarp in a stadium… EVER. Going out for the 2nd rain delay (after which, they called the game) the grounds crew made a poor fold of the tarp… that lead to 45 minutes of wet and wild hi-jinx that made RFK look like a giant Slip n’ Slide. The poor guys had to enlist the help of food vendors, parking attendant, and the janitorial crew to get the tarp unfurled and placed over the field. A few fans even tried to help, which led to them being escorted off the field to the chants of “let them go, let them go”. I had almost as much fun watching the “National Tarp Pull” (as stated by the scoreboard) as I did the rest of the game.
OK, on to the team. 2 of 3 from the Mets is good. Losing Eischen is bad. That makes, for my count, 3 of the bullpen down (add in Horgan and Tucker). Eischen is easily the wizened old man of the pen, and losing his experience and steady left arm is hard. Plus, there is now no left hander in the ‘pen, let alone a proven one. Look for the Nats to be scouring the MLB unemployed for the lefty, as I don’t think they have one in AAA that’s ready for the NL east’s batters.
Downside? We may slip a few games farther back of the fish. Upside? Eischen was leading MLB relievers in innings pitched, so the rest will get him fresh for the August/September push. Let’s hope we’ll be able to make it to August and still be close.
Wednesday, April 27, 2005
Workers of the world unite
No, I'm not a marxist.
I do, however, believe that there will be a small rebellion in the service based economy we have in the US right now. Bear with me as I explain:
The 40 hour work week, once mandated by law, has long since passed us by. With the emergence of the service economy, workers are being asked to work more and more for less and less benefits - and by benefits I mean not only quality health care and retirement plans, but raises and salaries as well.
Add on top of this the work cell phones, the blackberries, accessing your work e-mail from home, laptops... It's hard to break the leash, and many find themselves working at home instead of spending time with their family or, god forbid, having some time to themselves.
I'm pretty confident that someday, down the road, there will be a backlash. For now, though, I offer a solution... Optional Fridays. before I get killed for this, let me explain.
Most Fridays are already casual. Let's now encourage the work from home aspect for those days, so it can be truly casual. Sure, many people will take advantage of this to start, but after a few months of it, you'll see people filter in throughout the day to get stuff doen and then go home... with no problems from their superiors. I honeslty bet productivity would increase because people would have less incentive to sit at their desk and do nothing. Get that project finished? Have a three day weekend.
Sounds good to me.
I do, however, believe that there will be a small rebellion in the service based economy we have in the US right now. Bear with me as I explain:
The 40 hour work week, once mandated by law, has long since passed us by. With the emergence of the service economy, workers are being asked to work more and more for less and less benefits - and by benefits I mean not only quality health care and retirement plans, but raises and salaries as well.
Add on top of this the work cell phones, the blackberries, accessing your work e-mail from home, laptops... It's hard to break the leash, and many find themselves working at home instead of spending time with their family or, god forbid, having some time to themselves.
I'm pretty confident that someday, down the road, there will be a backlash. For now, though, I offer a solution... Optional Fridays. before I get killed for this, let me explain.
Most Fridays are already casual. Let's now encourage the work from home aspect for those days, so it can be truly casual. Sure, many people will take advantage of this to start, but after a few months of it, you'll see people filter in throughout the day to get stuff doen and then go home... with no problems from their superiors. I honeslty bet productivity would increase because people would have less incentive to sit at their desk and do nothing. Get that project finished? Have a three day weekend.
Sounds good to me.
Friday, April 22, 2005
Welcome to the Dark Side
The Boston Red Sox and their fans have just officially come over to the dark side. Life as an empire begins today.
With Tough out for injured Garciaparra by Bob Ryan in today's Boston Globe the Sawx have joined the ranks of the Evil Empire they so depised. One of the most celebrated Sawx columnists takes and unsubstantiated shot at a former pillar of the team, and in doing so shows the true colors of Sawx Fans everywhere.
I cannot wait to hear all the Sox "fans" use this as justification for dumping their favorite star for replacement talent when he could have been just as clutch, if not more so, that Cabrera down the stretch last year.
On behalf of the Yanks, welcome to the club. The anything for a ring club. Watch as all of baseball now depises you, too.
With Tough out for injured Garciaparra by Bob Ryan in today's Boston Globe the Sawx have joined the ranks of the Evil Empire they so depised. One of the most celebrated Sawx columnists takes and unsubstantiated shot at a former pillar of the team, and in doing so shows the true colors of Sawx Fans everywhere.
I cannot wait to hear all the Sox "fans" use this as justification for dumping their favorite star for replacement talent when he could have been just as clutch, if not more so, that Cabrera down the stretch last year.
On behalf of the Yanks, welcome to the club. The anything for a ring club. Watch as all of baseball now depises you, too.
Thursday, April 07, 2005
Nationals Pride
OK, I know, I had a post with this title before.
The reason I bring this up again is that the site is done! Yes, ladies and gents, you can go to Nationals Pride and check out content all about your Washington Nationals. I know, most of you are fans of other teams, but do me the favor - go to the site, click some links, read some content, post in the message board. Tell me how bad my picture looks, even. It's updated every day, and I'll be adding my baseball blog thoughts there, not here, so look for this to make a more political turn... well, maybe not, but at least it would be less Baseball.
So what are you waiting for? Click it! Nationals Pride.com
The reason I bring this up again is that the site is done! Yes, ladies and gents, you can go to Nationals Pride and check out content all about your Washington Nationals. I know, most of you are fans of other teams, but do me the favor - go to the site, click some links, read some content, post in the message board. Tell me how bad my picture looks, even. It's updated every day, and I'll be adding my baseball blog thoughts there, not here, so look for this to make a more political turn... well, maybe not, but at least it would be less Baseball.
So what are you waiting for? Click it! Nationals Pride.com
Monday, April 04, 2005
Time change
I just want to go on the record, again, about being anti-the time change. I mean, we all love more sunlight, of course, but this change screws me up for a few days.
That is, screws me up more than I already am.
That is, screws me up more than I already am.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Delay's Debatable Decision
Yes, I Adore Alliteration Ad Nauseum.
Anyways, Tom Delay is at it again. As evidenced by Sunday's LA Times article, Delay, in similar circumstances, pulled the plug on his own Dad, where when it comes to the Schiavo case, Tommy is ready and willing to jump in and get the US Congress involved to reinsert the feeding tube.
I understand wanting to make a stand for what you believe in. Heck, I even have a small bit of admiration for those who are crusading for what they think is right, despite me not being exactly in line with their beliefs. But come on, Tom Delay - don't jump on this issue just because it will help you politically when you let your own dad die in an extremely similar case.
Hypocrisy. Tell Tom to find a dictionary.
Anyways, Tom Delay is at it again. As evidenced by Sunday's LA Times article, Delay, in similar circumstances, pulled the plug on his own Dad, where when it comes to the Schiavo case, Tommy is ready and willing to jump in and get the US Congress involved to reinsert the feeding tube.
I understand wanting to make a stand for what you believe in. Heck, I even have a small bit of admiration for those who are crusading for what they think is right, despite me not being exactly in line with their beliefs. But come on, Tom Delay - don't jump on this issue just because it will help you politically when you let your own dad die in an extremely similar case.
Hypocrisy. Tell Tom to find a dictionary.
Monday, March 28, 2005
Assorted Sheet
March Madness - I know, I know - someone kill me for complaining about 'Cuse. Great games this weekend though - comebacks galore. This coming weekend... look for UNC and Illinois to win close ones... setting up a nice championship game matchup.
Baseball - I am getting very excited, aren't you? Seeing many, many pieces of Nats paraphenalia too. April 3, ESPN, 8PM - Sawx/Yanks to get us started, live from the Bronx.
Halo 2 - New Multiplayer maps announced! Will be great to add new stuff to an already legendary game. That leads me too...
I broke down and got Xbox Live last week. I love it. I was missing a sense of community in my gaming, missing the trash talking that went down on HT9 and the post-game post-mortems. Xbox Live gives you that feeling, between the headset functionality and the ability to add others onto your 'box to play in the same room as you. Team Sweet Lips is in the House. In the words of D Pain - You are going down like a sweet muffin!
Yes, I know I should be ranting about something, but frankly, besides Michael Jackson (something I tune out) and the constant Schiavo coverage (can we remove that feeding tube from the cable news networks, please?) there isn't much for me to discuss. Political updates to follow as they become available, but it's a slow time in DC right now.
Baseball - I am getting very excited, aren't you? Seeing many, many pieces of Nats paraphenalia too. April 3, ESPN, 8PM - Sawx/Yanks to get us started, live from the Bronx.
Halo 2 - New Multiplayer maps announced! Will be great to add new stuff to an already legendary game. That leads me too...
I broke down and got Xbox Live last week. I love it. I was missing a sense of community in my gaming, missing the trash talking that went down on HT9 and the post-game post-mortems. Xbox Live gives you that feeling, between the headset functionality and the ability to add others onto your 'box to play in the same room as you. Team Sweet Lips is in the House. In the words of D Pain - You are going down like a sweet muffin!
Yes, I know I should be ranting about something, but frankly, besides Michael Jackson (something I tune out) and the constant Schiavo coverage (can we remove that feeding tube from the cable news networks, please?) there isn't much for me to discuss. Political updates to follow as they become available, but it's a slow time in DC right now.
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Desperate GOP
Yeah, I wanted to do a Desperate Housewives riff, but I'm just not that funny.
Seriously though, is it me, or is the NYS GOP desperate to land a punch? From today's Hotline:
This One Could Get Ugly, Folks
HRC wants GOP votes "canceled out by a murder or rapist" while the GOP is intent of promoting a "radical political agenda," according to "dueling fundraising letters" sent out by HRC and her critics. HRC: "You have to fight back, and you can't site back and let baseless attacks go unanswered." State GOP chair Stephen Minarik (R): "Our favorite carpetbagger is up for re-election in 2006 and hungrily eyeing a run for the White House in 2008. If we soundly defeat her in 2006, her hopes of running for president will whither on the vine." The letters highlight the emerging battle over HRC's bid for a second Senate term. More HRC: "If there is one thing that I have learned in my years of politics, it's that you can't let the opposition set the terms of the debate." More Minarik: "Hillary's vision of a better American is one where your vote is canceled out by a murderer or a rapist. If your thought of Hilary Clinton as our commander-in-chief strikes fear into your heart, you are not alone. There are millions of Republicans and even a few common-sense Democrats here in New York whose biggest fear is another President Clinton" (Humbert, Newsday, 3/15).
Now, sure, the NYS GOP needs help. Pataki is way down, Guiliani won't run, Bloomberg isn't truly Republican - he's very moderate and was a registered Dem for a long time. Isn't it a little early, however, to accuse a sitting Senator of trying to cancel out opposition votes with a "murderer or rapist"?
Stunts like this are why (1) poeple tune out politics more and more and (2) HRC does well upstate - going below the belt on the first punch is a big turn-off for NY voters.
Seriously though, is it me, or is the NYS GOP desperate to land a punch? From today's Hotline:
This One Could Get Ugly, Folks
HRC wants GOP votes "canceled out by a murder or rapist" while the GOP is intent of promoting a "radical political agenda," according to "dueling fundraising letters" sent out by HRC and her critics. HRC: "You have to fight back, and you can't site back and let baseless attacks go unanswered." State GOP chair Stephen Minarik (R): "Our favorite carpetbagger is up for re-election in 2006 and hungrily eyeing a run for the White House in 2008. If we soundly defeat her in 2006, her hopes of running for president will whither on the vine." The letters highlight the emerging battle over HRC's bid for a second Senate term. More HRC: "If there is one thing that I have learned in my years of politics, it's that you can't let the opposition set the terms of the debate." More Minarik: "Hillary's vision of a better American is one where your vote is canceled out by a murderer or a rapist. If your thought of Hilary Clinton as our commander-in-chief strikes fear into your heart, you are not alone. There are millions of Republicans and even a few common-sense Democrats here in New York whose biggest fear is another President Clinton" (Humbert, Newsday, 3/15).
Now, sure, the NYS GOP needs help. Pataki is way down, Guiliani won't run, Bloomberg isn't truly Republican - he's very moderate and was a registered Dem for a long time. Isn't it a little early, however, to accuse a sitting Senator of trying to cancel out opposition votes with a "murderer or rapist"?
Stunts like this are why (1) poeple tune out politics more and more and (2) HRC does well upstate - going below the belt on the first punch is a big turn-off for NY voters.
Monday, March 14, 2005
Shafted
Absolutely Shafted.
The brackets came out last night, and I am more than just a little upset. Those of you who know my College Basketball allegiance well know that I am a Syracuse fan, and have been since I was a kid. I actually met members of the team and Coach Boeheim in 2003 after they won the tourney.
When you look at your bracket, you notice that 'Cuse is a 4 seed. Now, normally I wouldn't complain about that, only UCONN got a 2 seed - an absolute shafting of Syracuse.
Sure, UConn won the regular season Big East Title (tied with BC), but 'Cuse not only played more games (27-6 compared to 24-4) but 'Cuse also ended the season ranked higher in the ESPN poll. That notwithstanding, Syracuse BEAT UConn in the Big East Tourney Semi-finals, and beat them handily. 'Cuse went on to win the Big East Tournament!
Sure, other teams got the shaft too, but there is no way last year's champion deserves special seeding. Syracuse didn't get it last year. That being said... I don't have either making the final four.
Get your bracket Here.
The brackets came out last night, and I am more than just a little upset. Those of you who know my College Basketball allegiance well know that I am a Syracuse fan, and have been since I was a kid. I actually met members of the team and Coach Boeheim in 2003 after they won the tourney.
When you look at your bracket, you notice that 'Cuse is a 4 seed. Now, normally I wouldn't complain about that, only UCONN got a 2 seed - an absolute shafting of Syracuse.
Sure, UConn won the regular season Big East Title (tied with BC), but 'Cuse not only played more games (27-6 compared to 24-4) but 'Cuse also ended the season ranked higher in the ESPN poll. That notwithstanding, Syracuse BEAT UConn in the Big East Tourney Semi-finals, and beat them handily. 'Cuse went on to win the Big East Tournament!
Sure, other teams got the shaft too, but there is no way last year's champion deserves special seeding. Syracuse didn't get it last year. That being said... I don't have either making the final four.
Get your bracket Here.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Busy Offseason
Being the sports dork that I am, I always keep track of important news in the sports I watch. I am stunned though, STUNNED, by the moves the NY football Giants are making this offseason. Normally big blue makes a few, small signings and heads for draft day, but this year they have gone out and opened the cash vault. Antonio Pierce at MLB has been the biggest name, but adding to the O-line and getting a good kicker are also huge moves. Now they are going after Plaxico Burress - one of the best WR's on the market - something that was unthinkable a month ago.
Maybe this IS the year we get competitive in the NFC East again.
Readers, please comment with your thoughts on the Giants of your favorite teams.
Maybe this IS the year we get competitive in the NFC East again.
Readers, please comment with your thoughts on the Giants of your favorite teams.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
Wingman Addendum
Just to add a follow up...
"The subordinate male just kind of stands there with his tail fanned looking pretty, kind of like a backup dancer" -- biologist Alan Krakauer, on the wingmen used by wild turkeys to mate (Knight Ridder).
After seeing this in a Politics e-mail that comes every afternoon (Last Call, for you plugged in people) they said - "Don't a lot of people use Wild Turkey as a wingman? "
Blog Reader Dub-b, can you verify? Do you use Wild Turkey (or wild turkeys) when I'm not there to back you up?
"The subordinate male just kind of stands there with his tail fanned looking pretty, kind of like a backup dancer" -- biologist Alan Krakauer, on the wingmen used by wild turkeys to mate (Knight Ridder).
After seeing this in a Politics e-mail that comes every afternoon (Last Call, for you plugged in people) they said - "Don't a lot of people use Wild Turkey as a wingman? "
Blog Reader Dub-b, can you verify? Do you use Wild Turkey (or wild turkeys) when I'm not there to back you up?
Wednesday, March 02, 2005
So, this is Kind of about Politics...
But not really.
I do my share of surfing every day, I hit the sports pages, CNN, Wash Post, etc... and one of the places I check out on a fairly regular basis is Bloggerman by Keith Olberman, late of ESPN and currently host of Countdown (8pm MSNBC). In reading Keith's musings yesterday, i came across this passage:
"On December 27th, we got an email from the lead lawyer for John Kerry in Ohio, Daniel J. Hoffheimer (remember him? It seems like only yesterday…) cautioning reporters “not to read more into” what the Kerry-Edwards campaign had just said about the authenticity of the election. “There are many allegations of fraud. But this presidential election is over. The Bush-Cheney ticket has won.” We ran several quotes from the email on Countdown that night, and more here on the blog.
Now, we can debate the merits of the email, and whether or not Senator Kerry’s people tantalized some of their supporters in the weeks after the election by first saying what seemed to be election-challenging things, and then saying “no, we didn’t mean thaaat.” But we can’t debate who Daniel Hoffheimer was, nor his standing in the Kerry camp, nor the fact that I wouldn’t get very far if I just made the news up every day, including quotations and even entire people.
Stop it. Stop that Fox joke you were thinking of.
Nonetheless, I got an email that night from a woman who identified herself only as Alexandra, who insisted “something clearly has happened to your coverage. Looks like ‘bait and switch’ to me… your quote (was that really true???) from the Kerry attorney saying they believed Bush really won (no fraud???) is so far fetched, I may as well have been listening to Karl Rove or Scott McClellan…”
Remembering the countless nerves frayed in the preceding two months, I replied gently to Ms. Alexandra, forwarding her Hoffheimer’s email.
The next afternoon she was back. “Can someone get a statement DIRECTLY from Kerry’s office that ‘Hoffmeier’ (sic) is INDEED his attorney? No one’s heard his name before (though maybe Bush/Cheney lawyers, or Karl Rove might have a clue)…”
As Charlie Brown used to say, arrrgh!
I sent Alexandra the name of Hoffheimer’s firm and suggested she check him out herself, and noted again that I wouldn’t get very far just making this stuff up out of whole cloth. Even the nutbags at both far ends of the political spectrum get called on that.
What wore me out, of course, was the idea that because I was presenting news that a viewer didn’t like, I had to have sold out to one party or another, and/or fabricated it. The woman presumed that I had created a fictional character, was stupid enough to quote him on national television, and was guilty of both these crimes and had to get a note from John Kerry that I wasn’t making it up."
Now, I know, some of you will get angry about the Fox rip, but wait - My thoughts have nothing to do with either news outlets nor the 2004 Presidential Election. My thoughts deal solely withthe state of Politicis in America, and what might be the source of all the divisivness we have at the moment. The idea, shown in the last paragraph above, that just because the viewer got news they didn't agree with they believe the provider has "sold out" to a special interest is a dangerous one.
Now, we can all believe that this is a random incident, and that the above story is an outlier, but I would call that dangerous. I believe that there are a lot more poeple out there, like this lady, who think much the same way. Though Blogs, and also mainstream media, continue to tilt further and further towards partisanship, i think we need to refocus, and make sure that we can get back to the origin of journalism: Reporting that favors no one and just provides facts so that the reader/viewer, not the reporter, decides what they think about the story and how to go from there.
I do my share of surfing every day, I hit the sports pages, CNN, Wash Post, etc... and one of the places I check out on a fairly regular basis is Bloggerman by Keith Olberman, late of ESPN and currently host of Countdown (8pm MSNBC). In reading Keith's musings yesterday, i came across this passage:
"On December 27th, we got an email from the lead lawyer for John Kerry in Ohio, Daniel J. Hoffheimer (remember him? It seems like only yesterday…) cautioning reporters “not to read more into” what the Kerry-Edwards campaign had just said about the authenticity of the election. “There are many allegations of fraud. But this presidential election is over. The Bush-Cheney ticket has won.” We ran several quotes from the email on Countdown that night, and more here on the blog.
Now, we can debate the merits of the email, and whether or not Senator Kerry’s people tantalized some of their supporters in the weeks after the election by first saying what seemed to be election-challenging things, and then saying “no, we didn’t mean thaaat.” But we can’t debate who Daniel Hoffheimer was, nor his standing in the Kerry camp, nor the fact that I wouldn’t get very far if I just made the news up every day, including quotations and even entire people.
Stop it. Stop that Fox joke you were thinking of.
Nonetheless, I got an email that night from a woman who identified herself only as Alexandra, who insisted “something clearly has happened to your coverage. Looks like ‘bait and switch’ to me… your quote (was that really true???) from the Kerry attorney saying they believed Bush really won (no fraud???) is so far fetched, I may as well have been listening to Karl Rove or Scott McClellan…”
Remembering the countless nerves frayed in the preceding two months, I replied gently to Ms. Alexandra, forwarding her Hoffheimer’s email.
The next afternoon she was back. “Can someone get a statement DIRECTLY from Kerry’s office that ‘Hoffmeier’ (sic) is INDEED his attorney? No one’s heard his name before (though maybe Bush/Cheney lawyers, or Karl Rove might have a clue)…”
As Charlie Brown used to say, arrrgh!
I sent Alexandra the name of Hoffheimer’s firm and suggested she check him out herself, and noted again that I wouldn’t get very far just making this stuff up out of whole cloth. Even the nutbags at both far ends of the political spectrum get called on that.
What wore me out, of course, was the idea that because I was presenting news that a viewer didn’t like, I had to have sold out to one party or another, and/or fabricated it. The woman presumed that I had created a fictional character, was stupid enough to quote him on national television, and was guilty of both these crimes and had to get a note from John Kerry that I wasn’t making it up."
Now, I know, some of you will get angry about the Fox rip, but wait - My thoughts have nothing to do with either news outlets nor the 2004 Presidential Election. My thoughts deal solely withthe state of Politicis in America, and what might be the source of all the divisivness we have at the moment. The idea, shown in the last paragraph above, that just because the viewer got news they didn't agree with they believe the provider has "sold out" to a special interest is a dangerous one.
Now, we can all believe that this is a random incident, and that the above story is an outlier, but I would call that dangerous. I believe that there are a lot more poeple out there, like this lady, who think much the same way. Though Blogs, and also mainstream media, continue to tilt further and further towards partisanship, i think we need to refocus, and make sure that we can get back to the origin of journalism: Reporting that favors no one and just provides facts so that the reader/viewer, not the reporter, decides what they think about the story and how to go from there.
Tuesday, March 01, 2005
Wingmen
This is a nostalgia post. A buddy of mine from college sent this to me, and so I provide for your general consumption.
Wingman Helps Friend Score
Buddies use distraction to cultivate attraction
BY HANNAH MARIA HAYES Press & Sun-Bulletin
Brian Mason proudly bears the title of "wingman" and has no problem accepting the help of one.
"A wingman helps lessen your nerves and lets you be yourself," said the 23-year-old Endicott resident. "You learn about the concept as soon as you get indoctrinated into the bar scene."
Being a wingman requires a person to ride shotgun for the sake of love.
It works a little bit like this: Two friends are at a party when one sees a potential love interest across the room. Once introductions are made, the wingman does everything he can to keep the conversation going. That might mean throwing in a bit of witty banter or keeping the cute person's friends busy -- all so that the buddy can score a phone number.
"The worst thing you can do is give one-word answers and look like a deer caught in headlights," Mason said. "That's when the wingman will grab the stick and start driving. The wingman helps fill the voids in conversation. They can leverage questions off you and hopefully make you look good."
Techniques vary, however.
Binghamton resident Ed Chin, 24, said he used to play wingman all the time for his friends until they moved away. But his wingman method involved staying far away from the girl that his friend was interested in.
"I intentionally keep her out of the conversation," Chin said. "I'll talk to her friends like I'm their best friends. I'll ask about their interests, movies, bands, arts -- anything that will lead to a very long conversation."
Why invest all that energy? Because then the love interest is not only bored, but she's free to talk to other people.
"Perfect timing for my buddy to come and save her day -- and buy her a few drinks," Chin said, adding that the objective of the wingman is to assist, not to overbear.
Mason said it all depends on the night as to whether he'll be playing wingman or using a wingman -- especially since his buddy dresses similar and has the same taste in women.
"While helping you out, they might get the hookup," he said. "A true wingman will never hurt you, but you can't help it if the girl is attracted to your buddy."
Being a good wingman also means that you might have to keep the possibly not-so-attractive friend busy, so that your friend can work their mojo uninterrupted.
"Sometimes you have to 'take one for the team,'" Mason said. "My friend did it for me three weekends ago. He said, 'If you need me, I'll do it,' and he did."
Some guys can find they're a hot commodity once they have a girlfriend or wife.
Paul Reiter said that since he met his fiancee three years ago, he's become an ace wingman.
"Now I will even talk to the hottest women without being scared, since I'm there just to shoot the wind until my friend comes in with a coy remark," said Reiter, who's 27 and lives in Philadelphia.
Not that every wingman always plays it smoothly.
John Penwarden's roommate used to play wingman for him during their senior year in college. One night, Penwarden, now 36, started flirting with a woman who seemed to show great interest.
"But alas, she went home with my roommate since I passed out on the way back from the restroom," Penwarden said.
"Keep your eye open and be aware if there is any chemistry between your wingperson and the person that you are interested in," Penwarden said. "For me the signs were there, but I dropped the ball."
Steve Dybsky, a 25-year-old Chicagoan, also discovered three years ago that having a wingman can sometimes backfire.
He was a senior at Villanova University, and his roommate was playing the role of wingman when they met two cheerleaders for the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team.
"We were going out of our way to make myself seem like a fun guy -- and things were going well," Dybsky said. Then his roommate, who'd gotten a little too drunk, abruptly threw up all over the table.
"I thought he ruined my chances," said Dybsky. But as it turns out, he still got the phone number he was after -- and a few dates with one of the cheerleaders.
Wingman's mission accomplished.
"Get out of there, Hollywood, get out of there god-dammit!" - Dub-B
Wingman Helps Friend Score
Buddies use distraction to cultivate attraction
BY HANNAH MARIA HAYES Press & Sun-Bulletin
Brian Mason proudly bears the title of "wingman" and has no problem accepting the help of one.
"A wingman helps lessen your nerves and lets you be yourself," said the 23-year-old Endicott resident. "You learn about the concept as soon as you get indoctrinated into the bar scene."
Being a wingman requires a person to ride shotgun for the sake of love.
It works a little bit like this: Two friends are at a party when one sees a potential love interest across the room. Once introductions are made, the wingman does everything he can to keep the conversation going. That might mean throwing in a bit of witty banter or keeping the cute person's friends busy -- all so that the buddy can score a phone number.
"The worst thing you can do is give one-word answers and look like a deer caught in headlights," Mason said. "That's when the wingman will grab the stick and start driving. The wingman helps fill the voids in conversation. They can leverage questions off you and hopefully make you look good."
Techniques vary, however.
Binghamton resident Ed Chin, 24, said he used to play wingman all the time for his friends until they moved away. But his wingman method involved staying far away from the girl that his friend was interested in.
"I intentionally keep her out of the conversation," Chin said. "I'll talk to her friends like I'm their best friends. I'll ask about their interests, movies, bands, arts -- anything that will lead to a very long conversation."
Why invest all that energy? Because then the love interest is not only bored, but she's free to talk to other people.
"Perfect timing for my buddy to come and save her day -- and buy her a few drinks," Chin said, adding that the objective of the wingman is to assist, not to overbear.
Mason said it all depends on the night as to whether he'll be playing wingman or using a wingman -- especially since his buddy dresses similar and has the same taste in women.
"While helping you out, they might get the hookup," he said. "A true wingman will never hurt you, but you can't help it if the girl is attracted to your buddy."
Being a good wingman also means that you might have to keep the possibly not-so-attractive friend busy, so that your friend can work their mojo uninterrupted.
"Sometimes you have to 'take one for the team,'" Mason said. "My friend did it for me three weekends ago. He said, 'If you need me, I'll do it,' and he did."
Some guys can find they're a hot commodity once they have a girlfriend or wife.
Paul Reiter said that since he met his fiancee three years ago, he's become an ace wingman.
"Now I will even talk to the hottest women without being scared, since I'm there just to shoot the wind until my friend comes in with a coy remark," said Reiter, who's 27 and lives in Philadelphia.
Not that every wingman always plays it smoothly.
John Penwarden's roommate used to play wingman for him during their senior year in college. One night, Penwarden, now 36, started flirting with a woman who seemed to show great interest.
"But alas, she went home with my roommate since I passed out on the way back from the restroom," Penwarden said.
"Keep your eye open and be aware if there is any chemistry between your wingperson and the person that you are interested in," Penwarden said. "For me the signs were there, but I dropped the ball."
Steve Dybsky, a 25-year-old Chicagoan, also discovered three years ago that having a wingman can sometimes backfire.
He was a senior at Villanova University, and his roommate was playing the role of wingman when they met two cheerleaders for the Philadelphia 76ers basketball team.
"We were going out of our way to make myself seem like a fun guy -- and things were going well," Dybsky said. Then his roommate, who'd gotten a little too drunk, abruptly threw up all over the table.
"I thought he ruined my chances," said Dybsky. But as it turns out, he still got the phone number he was after -- and a few dates with one of the cheerleaders.
Wingman's mission accomplished.
"Get out of there, Hollywood, get out of there god-dammit!" - Dub-B
Thursday, February 24, 2005
Yes, it's a Nationals Post
But not quite team related. The Washington post is doing what I would do... if I didn't have to work for a living. That's right, a live blog from spring training! Funny stuff, please check it out.
In other news, MVP Baseball 2005 has been released early. Very cool new stuff added. Build a stadium, new spring training mini-games, arguing managers and the like. It's good so far... but don't trust me, check out the review here.
Finally... we have comments. COMMENTS! People actually read my ramblings! I'm stunned... and thanks for reading. Tell your friends.
In other news, MVP Baseball 2005 has been released early. Very cool new stuff added. Build a stadium, new spring training mini-games, arguing managers and the like. It's good so far... but don't trust me, check out the review here.
Finally... we have comments. COMMENTS! People actually read my ramblings! I'm stunned... and thanks for reading. Tell your friends.
Tuesday, February 22, 2005
25 Years
I'm a little upset right now. I just made a cruise of the grandaddy of all sports web sites, ESPN.com, and saw NO reference (NONE) to one of the seminal events in American sports history, and quite possibly the greatest upset in the history of sports.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, today is the 25th anniversary of the United States Hockey Team, a bunch of college kids who were ranked 7th out of 12 when the olympis began, beating the best in the world Russian national team to go on to the gold medal game. Now, I know, I'm a hockey nut, and many of you will write off my disappointment in the lack of covergae on the web today, but we have to look back and remember, historically, what this event did for the people of our country.
The equivalent here to remember, folks, is like having the Division III SUNY Oswego Great Laker baseball team play and beat the Yankees. Like having your High School basketball team beat Duke at Cameron Indoor. Like taking your kid's pee wee football team and having them beat the NY Giants.
We were a country that was down. A country in a deep recession, lines at the gas pumps, hostages in Iran, and a national spirit on the decline. People rallied around this victory - total strangers pulled over on the highway to celebrate together and dance in the rain!
So, today, for just a moment, try and catch the news, and maybe catch a clip of Al Michaels doing the call and watch the miracle unfold.
P.S. For those of you with ESPN Classic, check out the game, drop of the puck to buzzer, at 8 and 11.30 PM.
Yes, ladies and gentlemen, today is the 25th anniversary of the United States Hockey Team, a bunch of college kids who were ranked 7th out of 12 when the olympis began, beating the best in the world Russian national team to go on to the gold medal game. Now, I know, I'm a hockey nut, and many of you will write off my disappointment in the lack of covergae on the web today, but we have to look back and remember, historically, what this event did for the people of our country.
The equivalent here to remember, folks, is like having the Division III SUNY Oswego Great Laker baseball team play and beat the Yankees. Like having your High School basketball team beat Duke at Cameron Indoor. Like taking your kid's pee wee football team and having them beat the NY Giants.
We were a country that was down. A country in a deep recession, lines at the gas pumps, hostages in Iran, and a national spirit on the decline. People rallied around this victory - total strangers pulled over on the highway to celebrate together and dance in the rain!
So, today, for just a moment, try and catch the news, and maybe catch a clip of Al Michaels doing the call and watch the miracle unfold.
P.S. For those of you with ESPN Classic, check out the game, drop of the puck to buzzer, at 8 and 11.30 PM.
Wednesday, February 16, 2005
Thank God for Pitchers and Catchers
No, this is not a baseball post.
As I write this, one of the best sports on the planet is about to close down it's flagship league. That's right folks, the NHL is going down the can.
Now, I know many of you aren't sad about this, and could care less. For me, though, Hockey was not only something I watched and shared with my dad growing up, but it was also a big part of my time at college. I know that it may not translate well to TV, and that there would need to be rule changes to make it more fan friendly - hell, I can name a few changes myself - but that doens't mean we should just kiss it goodbye.
So please, for me, for my die hard hockey fan family, for ESPN's John Buccigross, and for the legions of kids who lace up the skates every weekend - hang your head in a moment of silence today around 11am, because that's when commish Gary Bettman steps up to the podium and kisses it all goodbye.
As I write this, one of the best sports on the planet is about to close down it's flagship league. That's right folks, the NHL is going down the can.
Now, I know many of you aren't sad about this, and could care less. For me, though, Hockey was not only something I watched and shared with my dad growing up, but it was also a big part of my time at college. I know that it may not translate well to TV, and that there would need to be rule changes to make it more fan friendly - hell, I can name a few changes myself - but that doens't mean we should just kiss it goodbye.
So please, for me, for my die hard hockey fan family, for ESPN's John Buccigross, and for the legions of kids who lace up the skates every weekend - hang your head in a moment of silence today around 11am, because that's when commish Gary Bettman steps up to the podium and kisses it all goodbye.
Friday, February 11, 2005
My Man Tony
Tony Kornheiser had an article the other day in the Washington Post about my Nationals (yes, be afraid, I am embracing them). Tony was alledging that no one in DC could name 10 players on the Nats roster. Not entirely true, of course, since I could name 10 easily (5 in the starting rotation, 2 new free agents, 1 big trade, 3 stars who were there before, plus 2 other outfielders that were trade fodder - 13?) but whatever. Dudes on the street won't know of course, but that's not my point.
It doesn't matter if we know their names yet. We're going to love them anyways.
Here's a big number - the average attendance at an Expos Game last year (2004) was a little over 9k per game. In 2003 it was almost 13k per game. The Natioanls sold 18k full season ticket plans already, and the partial packages start sales now, plus, single game tickets don't go on sale until March.
Let's reiterate this - The Nationals 2005 attendence will be, at the very least, roughly DOUBLE what they experienced last year, and roughly, at least, 33% higher than 2003.
We'll learn their names, Tony. Check with the random dude on the street in June.
It doesn't matter if we know their names yet. We're going to love them anyways.
Here's a big number - the average attendance at an Expos Game last year (2004) was a little over 9k per game. In 2003 it was almost 13k per game. The Natioanls sold 18k full season ticket plans already, and the partial packages start sales now, plus, single game tickets don't go on sale until March.
Let's reiterate this - The Nationals 2005 attendence will be, at the very least, roughly DOUBLE what they experienced last year, and roughly, at least, 33% higher than 2003.
We'll learn their names, Tony. Check with the random dude on the street in June.
Monday, February 07, 2005
Super Bowl Breakdance
Yes, ladies and gents - that was MC Hammer you saw during those commercials, parachute pants and all!
Anyways, on to the breakdown, and Page 2's Simmons says it best - "I've seen 80 year-old men use a urinal with more urgency" -- ESPN's Bill Simmons, on the Eagles' last 6 minutes (ESPN.com). Seriously... what were they thinking? I bet my man Diamond Don was freakin' out as he watched them mosey up to the line. I mean, I love McNabb ('Cuse baby!) but dude - have you ever heard of a hurry up offense?
Regardless - hats off to the Pats - that performance was stellar, especially after such a medicore first quarter. Deion Branch just cemented himself star status. si.com's Peter King said the kid was a real class act too (King met him on the HBO NFL Set) so let's hope he sets a better example than Randy Moss.
Moving on - here is the paragraph all New England will love... DO YOU NOW UNDERSTAND HOW IT FEELS? The raw, unadulterated knowledge of winning, time and again? This is how it felt to be Yankee fan '96 - '00. A good, solid group of players, a culture that promotes winning, and a defined leader. Folks, Tom Brady is the same ilk as Jeter. I have heard for years now how Nomar had better stats, A-Rod had more power and better range, blah blah blah, and I always countered with Jeter's leadership, and they laughed at me. Well, you know what? Check Tom Brady's stats - there are several QB's better than him the past four years, including Peyton and oh, the guy who lost last night - but Brady has 3 of the last 4 rings.
Welcome, New England. You know have a leader - enjoy it while you can.
Anyways, on to the breakdown, and Page 2's Simmons says it best - "I've seen 80 year-old men use a urinal with more urgency" -- ESPN's Bill Simmons, on the Eagles' last 6 minutes (ESPN.com). Seriously... what were they thinking? I bet my man Diamond Don was freakin' out as he watched them mosey up to the line. I mean, I love McNabb ('Cuse baby!) but dude - have you ever heard of a hurry up offense?
Regardless - hats off to the Pats - that performance was stellar, especially after such a medicore first quarter. Deion Branch just cemented himself star status. si.com's Peter King said the kid was a real class act too (King met him on the HBO NFL Set) so let's hope he sets a better example than Randy Moss.
Moving on - here is the paragraph all New England will love... DO YOU NOW UNDERSTAND HOW IT FEELS? The raw, unadulterated knowledge of winning, time and again? This is how it felt to be Yankee fan '96 - '00. A good, solid group of players, a culture that promotes winning, and a defined leader. Folks, Tom Brady is the same ilk as Jeter. I have heard for years now how Nomar had better stats, A-Rod had more power and better range, blah blah blah, and I always countered with Jeter's leadership, and they laughed at me. Well, you know what? Check Tom Brady's stats - there are several QB's better than him the past four years, including Peyton and oh, the guy who lost last night - but Brady has 3 of the last 4 rings.
Welcome, New England. You know have a leader - enjoy it while you can.
Tuesday, February 01, 2005
New Site
Yes, Ladies and Gentlemen, we have a new address. You can now reach the blog by going to www.mikepoint.com - though it may take another little while for that to propagate through the 'net. I am also now reachable by e-mail off the site as well - mike@mikepoint...
One of these days I'll leave blogger and move out on my own, but for now we'll be here... so update your bookmarks!
One of these days I'll leave blogger and move out on my own, but for now we'll be here... so update your bookmarks!
Monday, January 31, 2005
Interesting Sports List
Found on ESPN.com's Page2 - The greatest Quarterbacks in NFL History.
The interesting part for me is how the Giants have Phil Simms at #2 (whom a buddy of mine who is a Giants fan called "mediocre" - blasphemy!) and Kerry break your heart Collins at #80 (the bottommost number). Just shows you where the franchise has gone since the glory days of Parcells. For the true geeks out there - Jeff Hostetler was #28.
No fear, though - Eli will save us... if we can get a WR.
The interesting part for me is how the Giants have Phil Simms at #2 (whom a buddy of mine who is a Giants fan called "mediocre" - blasphemy!) and Kerry break your heart Collins at #80 (the bottommost number). Just shows you where the franchise has gone since the glory days of Parcells. For the true geeks out there - Jeff Hostetler was #28.
No fear, though - Eli will save us... if we can get a WR.
Democracy in Action
OK, OK, i know - a liberal democrat is not supposed to feel this way, according to conservative stereotyping. Regardless of that, however, I just want to post how moved I am by the Iraqi's who came out to vote yesterday - they braved far more odds than we ever have to just to get to the polls, and odds are that their turnout will be higher than ours.
This is by no means me condoning our action in Iraq, by the way - I'm still quite conflicted on that, mainly because many of those you yell at me for not condoning our entry into that country are the same who opposed nation building practices while Bill Clinton was president. Didn't Bill present evidence of Iraqi WMD in 98... and didn't congressional Republicans tell him he couldn't go in? Oh yeah - look it up, folks.
Anyways, don't tell me that your full and total assetion that the President was completely right isn't based, somewhat, on your party affiliation - so don't tell me that I "disrepect the troops" or have "no ideas about foreign policy strength" - think about it yourselves, won't you?
The idea that our troops fought and died for in the sand is the same idea that Iraqi's braved terror for - freedom - It's the same idea that you and I have the ability to excercise everyday, so please, please, try and use it - don't just regurgiate the party line - think.
I will if you will.
Deal?
This is by no means me condoning our action in Iraq, by the way - I'm still quite conflicted on that, mainly because many of those you yell at me for not condoning our entry into that country are the same who opposed nation building practices while Bill Clinton was president. Didn't Bill present evidence of Iraqi WMD in 98... and didn't congressional Republicans tell him he couldn't go in? Oh yeah - look it up, folks.
Anyways, don't tell me that your full and total assetion that the President was completely right isn't based, somewhat, on your party affiliation - so don't tell me that I "disrepect the troops" or have "no ideas about foreign policy strength" - think about it yourselves, won't you?
The idea that our troops fought and died for in the sand is the same idea that Iraqi's braved terror for - freedom - It's the same idea that you and I have the ability to excercise everyday, so please, please, try and use it - don't just regurgiate the party line - think.
I will if you will.
Deal?
Tuesday, January 25, 2005
Nationals Pride
I like what I see lately.
The more and more I am around the DC metro area, the more Nationals Paraphenalia I see.
From what I can tell, this is a good thing - I mean, I was never part of the 33 years without a baseball team - even my hometown had a AA franchise - but I am happy to see that the area has responded so well to the team, despite the week of no baseball thoughts due to the city council.
Personally, I am psyched - I've always wanted to live in a city with a big league franchise, and splitting season tickets with friends will be great. Now, we may not have the greatest team ever, nor may we even make the playoffs, but I believe that playing in front of a packed house of 40k most nights as opposed to 5k poeple in Montreal will give a boost to the team.
In effect, I'm just waiting for the game that comes down to the young relief pitcher facing the big hitter - "Forget the curve, Ricky - give him the Heater!"
The more and more I am around the DC metro area, the more Nationals Paraphenalia I see.
From what I can tell, this is a good thing - I mean, I was never part of the 33 years without a baseball team - even my hometown had a AA franchise - but I am happy to see that the area has responded so well to the team, despite the week of no baseball thoughts due to the city council.
Personally, I am psyched - I've always wanted to live in a city with a big league franchise, and splitting season tickets with friends will be great. Now, we may not have the greatest team ever, nor may we even make the playoffs, but I believe that playing in front of a packed house of 40k most nights as opposed to 5k poeple in Montreal will give a boost to the team.
In effect, I'm just waiting for the game that comes down to the young relief pitcher facing the big hitter - "Forget the curve, Ricky - give him the Heater!"
Sunday, January 16, 2005
Playoffs?!?!?
Now, I don't mean to sound like ex Colts head coach Jim Mora, but I have to say, after watching one day of the NFL divisional round, it was quite the confusing day.
Game one - Pittsburgh/Jets - Blowout, right? No - Dougie Brien shanks two in the final 2 minutes to blow the game for the Jets (a game the Steelers should have won easily) - sure, they were long, but you're the kicker - you have one job, maybe two... hit that kick, Scott Norwood.
Game two - Rams/Falcons - Should be a tight game, right? Wrong. Falcons put up basically 50 on St. Louis, and it was never even close - and this rams team was supposed to have momentum, and the Falcons had "questions". Well, Questions answered.
So, after a resounding WTF shook the NFL intelligentsia last night, we have to figure out what the hell is going to happen today... and I have no clue, because after last night's games, I look like Jim Mora.
On a side note, as much as I like the Don Cheadle NFL commercials, it was... nice to see Rene Russo on there too, I know, she's old enough to be my mother, but whatever - that's one attractive woman.
Game one - Pittsburgh/Jets - Blowout, right? No - Dougie Brien shanks two in the final 2 minutes to blow the game for the Jets (a game the Steelers should have won easily) - sure, they were long, but you're the kicker - you have one job, maybe two... hit that kick, Scott Norwood.
Game two - Rams/Falcons - Should be a tight game, right? Wrong. Falcons put up basically 50 on St. Louis, and it was never even close - and this rams team was supposed to have momentum, and the Falcons had "questions". Well, Questions answered.
So, after a resounding WTF shook the NFL intelligentsia last night, we have to figure out what the hell is going to happen today... and I have no clue, because after last night's games, I look like Jim Mora.
On a side note, as much as I like the Don Cheadle NFL commercials, it was... nice to see Rene Russo on there too, I know, she's old enough to be my mother, but whatever - that's one attractive woman.
Saturday, January 15, 2005
I've been meaning to write this for a while...
Because I had a unique event happen to me and I wanted to share it with you all. It's quite sad, so bear with me.
Last November I attended a wedding with my girlfriend - two Army captains who met in Baghdad, both Helicopter pilots in the 82nd airborne (Jen flies Kiowa warriors, Justin flew Blackhawks). It was, by far, one of the neatest things I have ever seen, and I felt privileged just to be able to be there. Granted, the only reason I know them is that my girlfriend was Jen's roommate at NMMI - the New Mexico Military Institute, which is a prep school for those wishing to attend a service academy.
Well, last Sunday, January 2, Jen and Justin had gone to see the family of Jen's old troop commander, another female captain who died over Fallujah. On the way back to Fort Bragg, a tractor trailer jumped the median on I-95 and struck their car, injuring Jen and killing Justin on impact.
We found out about this a few days later, and we drove down and attended the funeral service in Fayetteville the eighth, and Justin will be interred at Arlington February 2. I cannot describe in words the range of emotions that I have felt the past few weeks because of this. Despite the generalization that Liberals hate the military (something far from the truth), I have a deep, deep respect for those who serve, knowing some of them myself and once upon a time considering doing the same... you expect those who serve to be injured in training, or in combat, and to even have them die, but you never expect for something like this to happen, and it cuts you to the core.
I could go off on some rant about highway safety, or the unfairness of life, or whatever, but I won't, because that would disrespect Justin's memory. All I ask is that if you know someone who serves, thank them and tell them how grateful you are for them as a person, because you never know, combat or not, if this will be the last time you have a chance to say it.
Last November I attended a wedding with my girlfriend - two Army captains who met in Baghdad, both Helicopter pilots in the 82nd airborne (Jen flies Kiowa warriors, Justin flew Blackhawks). It was, by far, one of the neatest things I have ever seen, and I felt privileged just to be able to be there. Granted, the only reason I know them is that my girlfriend was Jen's roommate at NMMI - the New Mexico Military Institute, which is a prep school for those wishing to attend a service academy.
Well, last Sunday, January 2, Jen and Justin had gone to see the family of Jen's old troop commander, another female captain who died over Fallujah. On the way back to Fort Bragg, a tractor trailer jumped the median on I-95 and struck their car, injuring Jen and killing Justin on impact.
We found out about this a few days later, and we drove down and attended the funeral service in Fayetteville the eighth, and Justin will be interred at Arlington February 2. I cannot describe in words the range of emotions that I have felt the past few weeks because of this. Despite the generalization that Liberals hate the military (something far from the truth), I have a deep, deep respect for those who serve, knowing some of them myself and once upon a time considering doing the same... you expect those who serve to be injured in training, or in combat, and to even have them die, but you never expect for something like this to happen, and it cuts you to the core.
I could go off on some rant about highway safety, or the unfairness of life, or whatever, but I won't, because that would disrespect Justin's memory. All I ask is that if you know someone who serves, thank them and tell them how grateful you are for them as a person, because you never know, combat or not, if this will be the last time you have a chance to say it.
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