Yankees Delayed

Damn.

2008 MLB End of year awards and results

2008 AL MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
2008 NL MVP: David Wright, New York Mets
2008 AL Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers
2008 NL Cy Young: Johan Santana, New York Mets
2008 AL ROTY: Joba Chamberlain, New York Yankees
2008 NL ROTY: Kousuke Fukodome, Chicago Cubs
2008 AL Comeback player: Rich Harden, Oakland Athletics
2008 NL Comeback player: Randy Johnson, Arizona Diamondbacks
2008 AL Manager of the year: John McLaren, Seattle Mariners
2008 NL Manager of the year: Joe Torre, Los Angeles Dodger

Playoff Predictions

AL
1. Tigers
2. Red Sox
3.Mariners
WC. Yankees

Tigers over Yankees
Red Sox over Mariners

Tigers over Red Sox

NL
1. Cubs
2. Mets
3. Dodgers
4. Diamondbacks

Cubs over Diamondbacks
Mets over Dodgers

Mets over Cubs

World Series
Tigers over Mets in six game (Johan Santana goes 0-2)

National League Preview

NL East
1. New York Mets
Last year finish: 2nd NL East
Key losses: Paul LoDuca (C), Lasting Milledge (CF), Tom Glavine (SP), Guillermo Mota (RP), Deolis Guerra (SP), Phillip Humber (SP), Kevin Mulvey (SP)
Key additions: Ryan Church (RF), Brian Schneider (C), Matt Wise (RP), Angel Pagan (RF), Johan Santana (SP)
Projected rotation: Johan Santana, Pedro Martinez, John Maine, Oliver Perez, Orlando Hernandez
Projected line-up: C-Bryan Schneider; 1b-Carlos Delgado; 2b-Luis Castillo; 3b-David Wright; ss-Jose Reyes; lf-Angel Pagan/Moises Alout; cf-Carlos Beltran; rf-Ryan Church
Synopsis: The Mets hope to rebound from last year's monumental collapse with the addition of the best pitcher in the game, Johan Santana. Santana brings the Mets the top line starter they have been in need for and should likely continue his domination in the NL. The Mets as always have a solid line-up but the only problem might be health. If Delgado and Alou ar not healthy, the Mets are losing two potent bats. The trade of Milledge (and essentially LoDuca) was curious one because the Mets did not get better players in return. The other question with the Mets is their bullpen. The return of a healthy Duaner Sanchez should help that. But in the end, the Mets should win the division again.

Key losses:2. Atlanta Braves
Last year finish: 3rd NL East
Key losses: Octavio Dotel (RP), Andruw Jones (CF), Willie Harris (LF), Chad Paronto (RP), Edgar Renteria (SS), Ron Mahay (RP), Oscar Villareal (RP)
Key additions: Tom Glavine (SP), Josh Anderson (CF), Will Ohman (RP), Mark Kotsay (CF), Jair Jurjens (SP)
Projected rotation: Tim Hudson, John Smoltz, Tom Glavine, Mike Hampton, Chuck James
Projected line-up: C-Brian McCann; 1b-Mark Texeria; 2b-Kelly Johnson; 3b-Chipper Jones; ss-Yunel Escobard; lf-Matt Diaz; cf-Mark Kotsay; rf-Jeff Francouer
Synopsis: Once the bad boys of the NL East, the Braves have failed to make the post-season for the past two seasons and watched as the Mets and Phillies celebrated. This year, the Braves shoud be solid, but will have some flaws. The rotation gets a little dicety after Smoltz and Hudson, but Hampton and James are shaky. Who knows what you are going to get out of Hampton. The loss of Andruw Jones will hurt more than they think. The line-up is pretty solid and has a chance to be great. Yunel Escobar is an absoulte stud and Francouer and McCann can only get better. This team has a chance to giv the Mets a run, but in the end, won't take out their rivals.

Key losses:3. Philladelphia Phillies
Last year finish: NL East Champs; Lost NLDS to Colorado
Key losses: Michael Bourn (CF), Geoff Geary (RP), Aaron Rowand (CF), Tadahito Iguchi (2b), Jon Lieber (SP), Freddy Garcia (SP), Pedro Feliz (3b), Geoff Jenkins(LF)
Key additions: Brad Lidge (RP), Chris Snelling (LF), Chad Durbin (SP), So Taguchi (RF), Shane Youman (SP)
Projected rotation: Brett Myers, Cole Hamels, Jamie Moyer, Kyle Kendrick, Adam Eaton
Projected line-up: C-Carlos Ruiz; 1b-Ryan Howard; 2b-Chase Utley; 3b-Pedro Feliz; ss-Jimmy Rollins; lf-Pat Burrell; cf-Shane Victirino; lf-Geoff Jenkins
Synopsis: One year after winning the division on the last day of the season, the Phillies will come down to earth in what will be a tough division. The problem with the Phillies is their pitching. Their top two starters are good and legit, but the rest is so-so. I liked what I saw out of Kendrick last season, but Moyer is getting older and Adam Eaton stinks. The offense, as usual, will be solid with Howard, Utley, Rollins. I believe they wil miss Rowand. The addition of Brad Lidge (on the DL as we speak) will either turn into a great gamble or stupid pick-up. Lidge needed to get out of Houston. But is batter friendly Citizens Bank Park the answer? Just wait until Pujols comes to town.

4. Washington Nationals
Last year finish: 4th NL East
Key losses: Ryan Church (RF), Brian Schneider (C), Jonathan Albaladejo (RP), John Patterson (SP)
Key additions: Paul LoDuca (C), Lastings Milledge (CF), Elijah Dukes (CF), Tyler Clippard (SP), Aaron Boone (3b), Willie Harris (CF), Johnny Estrada (C)
Projected rotation: Shawn Hill, Matt Chico, Jason Bergman, Tim Redding, Tyler Clippard
Projected line-up: C-Paul LoDuca, 1b-Nick Johnson/Dimitri Young, 2b-Ronnie Belliard/Felipe Lopez, ss-Christian Guzman/Felipe Lopez, 3b-Ryan Zimmerman, lf-Wily Mo Pena, cf-Lastings Milledge, rf-Austin Kearns
Synopsis: The Nationals have become a better team in the past few years, but are still not at the level to seriously compete. The pitching is suspect with no real ace on the staff and just being essentially a staff of all number four and five starters. The offense has some players like Zimmerman, but the rest is mediocre. Lastings Milledge should develop but only time will tell. Wily Mo Pena might benefit with the move to a new park, but who knows. Atleast the Marins keep them out of last place.

5. Florida Marlins
Last year finish: 5th NL East
Key losses: Dontrelle Willis (SP), Miguel Cabrera (3b), Aaron Boone (3b), Miguel Olivo (C)
Key additions: Andrew Miller (SP), Cameron Maybin (CF), Mark Hendrickson (Sp), Mike Rabelo (C), Jose Castilo (3b),
Projected rotation: Scott Olsen, Sergio Mitre, Andrew Miller, Rick VandenHurk, Ricky Nolasco
Projected line-up:C-Mike Rabelo; 1b-Mike Jacobs; 2b-Dan Uggla; SS-Hanley Ramirez; 3b-Jose Castillo; cf-Alfredo Amazaga; lf-Josh Willinham; rf-Jeremy Hermida
Synopsis: It's hard to believe that this team has won two of the last 10 World Series. There are some studs on this team like Hanley Ramirez, and Uggla is decent, but the rest of this team is medicore. Trading away Willis and Cabrera was the right thing to do and this team will benefit down the road with the addition of Miller and Maybin, who is a projected five-tool player. But for now, thim will sink in the sea (Get the Pun? I know corny.)
NL Central
1. Chicago Cubs
Last year finish: NL Central Champs; Lost ALDS to Diamondbacks
Key Losses: Jason Kendall(C); Jacque Jones (LF); Will Ohman (RP); Craig Monroe (RF); Cliff Floyd (RF); Mark Prior (SP); Angel Pagan (RF)
Key additons: Kosuke Dokudome (RF); Jon Lieber (SP)
Projected rotation: Carlos Zambrano, Ted Lilly, Rich Hill, Jason Marquis, Shawn Marshall
Projected line-up: C-Geovany Soto; 1b-Derek Lee; 2b-Mark DeRosa; ss-Ryan Theriot; 3b-Aramis Ramirez; lf-Alfonso Soriano; cf-Felix Pie; rf-Kosuke Fukodome
Synopsis: The Cubs won the NL Central in their first season under Lou Pinella and should do the same. The Cubs have a strong pitching staff and a strong line-up, that will only be bolstered by the addition of Japanese sensation Kosuke Fukodome. Felix Pie will be an intresting player to watch develop and see if he can become an everyday centerfielder. The Cubs are going to look for a little more out of Alfonso Soriano, who needs to try and cut down on his strikeouts. Derek Lee should also hit more homeruns than last year. All in all, the Cubs will be better.

2. Milwaukee Brewers
Last year finish: 2nd NL Central
Key losses: Johnny Estrada (C), Francisco Cordero (RP), Scott Linebrink (RP), Ray King (RP), Matt Wise (RP), Geoff Jenkins (LF), Claudio Vargas (SP)
Key additions: Jason Kendall (C), Randy Choate (RP), Guillermo Mota (RP), David Riske (RP), Eric Gagne (RP), Salomon Torres (RP), Mike Cameron (CF)
Projected rotation: Ben Sheets, Yovanni Gallardo, Jeff Suppan, Carlos Villanueva, Dave Bush
Projected line-up: C-Jason Kendall; 1b-Prince Fielder; 2b-Rickie Weeks; 3b-Bill Hall; SS-J.J. Hardy; LF-Ryan Braun; cf-Mike Cameron; RF-Corey Hart
Synopsis: The Brewers will figure to be key players in the NL Central for the second straight year, but their pitching might prevent them from taking over the Cubs. Sheets can never stay healthy, and Gallardo and Villanueva are youngsters who still have something to prove. Bush and Suppan are ok. If Sheets can't be the ace, this team will be in trouble. Offensively, this team will hit the crap out of the ball behind Fielder and Braun. Corey hart is emerging as a bonafide outfielder and Mike Cameron can only help. The bullpen is made up of known names, but there are no sure dominant relievers. Gagne could either be a bargain or a waste of salary. The Brewers will benefit from being in this division, but won't surpass the Cubs.

3. Cincinnati Reds
Last year finish:5th NL Central
Key losses:Josh Hamilton (CF), Eddie Guardado (RP), Josh Fogg (SP)
Key additions: Francisco Cordero (RP), Edison Volquez (SP)
Projected rotation: Aaron Harang, Bronson Arroyo, Matt Belisle, Josh Fogg, Edison Volquez
Projected line-up: C-David Ross; 1b-Scott Hatteberg; 2b-Brandon Phillips; ss-Alex Gonzalez; 3b-Edwin Encarnacion; LF-Adam Dunn; Cf-Ryan Freel; Rf-Ken Griffey Jr.
Synopsis: The Reds could be a sleeper in this division if their pitching holds up and Griffey stays healthy, but that is a big "if". The only reason the Reds will finish third is because this division is so pathetic. Harang is a legitmate ace at the front of the rotation, but the back get sketchy. Arroyo needs to have a year like his first one in Cincy. Brandon Phillips is turning into one of the best 2b in baseball, with 30 hrs and 30 sb. Offense should not be a problem with this team. Ryan Freel needs to rebound though. I don't think the Reds are partiucarly good, but in this division, anything is possible.

4. Houston Astros
Last year finish: 4th NL Central
Key losses: Craig Biggio (2b); Brad Lidge (RP); Josh Anderson (CF); Luke Scott (RF); Troy Patton (SP); Matt Albers (SP); Adam Everett (SS); Mike Lamb (2b); Chris Burke (2b) Chad Qualls (RP); Jason Jennings (SP)
Key additions: Geoff Blum (2b); Michael Bourn (CF); Geoff Geary (RP); Oscar Villareal (RP); Doug Brocail (RP); Kaz Matsui (2b); Miguel Tejada (SS); Jose Valverde (RP); Chad Paronoto (RP); Darin Erstad (CF);
Projected rotation: Roy Oswalt, Woody Williams, Wandy Rodriguez, Brandon Backe, Chris Sampson
Projected line-up: C-J.R. Towles; 1b-Lance Berkman; 2b-Kaz Matsui; ss-Miguel Tejada; 3b-Ty wiggington; lf-Carlos Lee; cf-Michael Bourn; RF-Hunter Pence
Synopsis: This team could be the favorites in the division but they have one area where they are dreadful: pitching. Behind Oswalt, this team has no one that can be relied on ,and in baseball, it comes down to pitching. This team will hit the ball no problem and probably will be up among the top teams in terms of runs scored in the national league, but they are going to have to score a huge amount to support this pitching staff. The bullpen should be soild with Valverde anchoring the end. I'm looking forward to seeing the development of Hunter Pence. Michael Bourn will either prove to be a bust or a valuable asset at the top of the line-up.

5. St. Louis Cardinals
Last year finish: 3rd NL Central
Key Losses: Troy Percvilal (RP); David Eckstein (SS); Jim Edomonds (CF); Gary Bennett (C); Kip Wells (SP); So Taguchi (LF); Scott Rolen (3b)
Key additions: Jason LaRue (C); Cesar Izturis (SS); Jose Castillo (2b), Matt Clement (SP), Troy Glaus (3b)
Projected rotation: Adam Wainwright, Braden Looper, Joel Pineiro, Matt Clement, Anthony Reyes
Projected line-up: C-Yadier Molina; 1b-Albert Pujols; 2b-Adam Kennedy; SS-Cesar Izturis; 3b-Troy Glaus; Lf-Chris Duncan; CF-Rick Ankiel; RF-Skip Schumaker
Synopsis: Two years removed from a World Series, the Cardinals have digressed in every which way. The pitching staff, which used to be their strong suit, is a joke of all former relievers. The team traded away/lost its heart and soul in players like Edmonds and Eckstein. Besides the pitching, the line-up is awful. Molina, Kennedy, Izturis and Schumaker are not run proudcers. There is some power, but it won't be enough with the pitching staff. Even the return of the once good Mark Mulder can't save this team. Thank god there is the Pirates in this division.

6. Pittsburgh Pirates
Last year finish: 6th NL Central
Key losses: Cesar Izturis (SS), Shane Youman (SP), Salomon Torres (RP), Jose Castillo (2b)
Key additions: Josh Wilson (SS), Chris Gomez (SS),
Projected rotation: Tom Gorzelanny, Ian Snell, Paul Maholm, Matt Morris, Zach Duke
Projected line-up: C-Ronny Paulino, 1b-Adam LaRoche, 2b-Freddy Sanchez, 3b-Jose Bautista, SS-Jack Wilson, LF-Jason Bay; Cf-Nijer Morgan, Rf-Xavier Nady
Synopsis: On paper, this team could possibly challenge some teams in the division, but its the Pirates and they never do. The Rotation actually has some quality arms including Snell and Gorzellany. Matt Mroris is past his prime and really can't pitch anymore. The line-up is not bad with LaRoche, Bay, Sanchez and Nady all solid bats to have in the line-up. The bullpen has a very solid pitcher in Damaso Marte and Matt Capps. I think they may be able to beat the Cardinals out, but remember, they are hte Pirates.

NL West

1. Los Angeles Dodgers
Last year finish: 4th NL West
Key losses: Randy Wolf (SP), Mark Hendricksen (SP)
Key additions: Andruw Jones (CF), Hiroku Kuroida (SP), Gary Bennet (C)
Projected rotation: Brad Penny, Derek Lowe, Hiroki Kuroida, Chad Billingsley, Jason Schmidt
Projected line-up: C-Russell Martin; 1b-James Loney; 2b-Jeff Kent; ss-Rafael Furcas; lf-Andre Eithier/Juan Pierre; cf-Andruw Jones; rf-Matt Kemp
Synopsis: The Dodgers look to rebound from one of the most disappointing season is baseball last year. There is no doubt that the Dodgers have the talent to compete in this division, but can they put it all together. The Dodger will be relying on big contirubtions from their youth, including Eithier, Billingsley, Loney and Kemp. If these guys develop as projected, the Dodgers will have a nice offensive team. Andruw Jones can only help and might have a revival of the team. the pthcing should be pretty good as well as Lowe should have a better year and Schmidt can possibily be a sleeper. I think Joe Torre has been give the tools to win and should be able to do so.

2. Arizona Diamondbacks (Wildcard)
Last year finish: NL West Champs, Lost ALCS Rockies
Key Losses:Carlos Quentin (RF), Carlos Gonzalez (RF), Jose Valverde (RP)
Key additions: Dan Haren (SP), Billy Buckner (RP), Chris Burke (2b), Chad Qualls (RP)
Projected rotation: Brandon Webb, Dan Haren, Doug Davis, Micah Owings, Randy Johnson
Projected line-up: C-Chris Snyder; 1b-Conor Jackson; 2b-Orlando Hudson; 3b-Mark Reynolds; SS-Stephen Drew; LF-Eric Byrnes; CF-Chris Young; RF-Justin Upton
Synopsis: After winning the division last year, the baby backs look to play a prominent role in the National League again. the D'backs have the best 1-2 punch in the national league with Haren and Webb and possibily the best rotation. Whatever they can get out of Randy Johnson this year will be a bonus. The Diamondbacks also should benefit from having Orlando Hudson for a full year. The only question from this team will be th offense, but they proved they can still win with no runs last year. I'm looking forward to seeing the development of Chris Young and Justin Upton. This hsould be a fun team.

3. Colorado Rockies
Last year finish: NL Wildcard, Lost World Series to Boston
Key Losses: Kaz Matsui (2b), LaTroy Hawkins (RP), Jamey Carroll (2b)
Key additions: Kip Wells (SP), Luis Vizcaino (RP)
Projected rotation: Jeff Francis, Aaron Cook, Ubaldo Jimenez, Franlin Morales, Jason Hirsh
Projected line-up: C-Yorvit Torrealba; 1b-Todd Helton; 2b-Ian Stewart; 3b-Garrett Atkins; ss-Troy Tulowitzski; lf-Matt Holliday; cf-Willy Taveras; rf-Brad Hawpe
Synopsis: America's sentimental team last season looks to repeat from last year, but ufortunately, play in what might be the hardest division in baseball. The Rockies will be able to hit the crap out of the ball with Matt Holliday and others anchoring the line-up, but this team's achilles heel will be its pitching. Francis is good, but is not an ace and the rest of the rotation is only ok. The offense can win some games, but the pitching will not be able to get it done to make it back to the playoffs.

4. San Diego Padres
Last year finish: 3rd NL West
Key Losses: Geoff Blum (2b), Doug Brocail (RP), Milton Bradley(RF), Mike Cameron (CF)
Key additions: Randy Wolf (SP), Jim Edmonds (CF), Tadahito Iguchi (2b), Mark Prior (SP)
Projected rotation: Jake Peavy, Chris Young, Randy Wolf, Greg Maddux, Mark Prior
Projected line-up: C-Josh Bard; 1b-Adrian Gonzalez; 2b-Tadahito Iguchi; 3b-Kevin Kouzmanoff; ss-Khalil Greene; lf-Scott Hairston; cf-Jim Edmonds; rf-Brian Giles
Synopsis: The Padres are not your typical fourth place team, but this division could force them too. The problem with this team is going to be health. Wolf, Prior, Edmonds are all injury prone and if they were to go down, the Padres would have a hard time replacing them. The rotation will be anchored by Young and Peavy which should be good, but the back end is shaky. There will be offensive production, but playing at Petco field does not help in any way. Adrian Gonzalez may be able to have a MVP season. I think the Padres might be able to surprise some people but not in this divison.

5. San Francisco Giants
Last year finish: 5th NL West
Key Losses: Barry Bonds (LF), Pedro Feliz (3b)
Key additions: Aaron Rowand (CF)
Projected rotation: Barry Zito, Matt Cain, Tim Lincecum, Noah Lowry, Kevin Correia
Projected line-up: C-Bengie Molina; 1b-Daniel Ortmier; 2b-Ray Durham; 3b-Rich Aurilia; ss-Omar Vizquel; lf-Dave Roberts; cf-Aaron Rowand; rf-Randy Winn
Synopsis: The old and hapless. This team is just dreaful. Don't get me wrong, I think they have two great pitchers in Matt Cain and Tim Lincecum, I guess the Barry Zito signing didn't work out. The line-up is dreadful, as everyone is pretty much past their prime except for Molina and Rowand. This team is going to end up as one of the absolute worst in baseball.

Your 2008 New York Yankees

Ladies and Gentleman, here are your opening day2008 New York Yankees

Jorge Posada
Jason Giambi
Robinson Cano
Derek Jeter
Alex Rodriguez
Johnny Damon
Melky Cabrera
Bobby Abreu
Hideki Matsui
Wilson Betemit
Shelley Duncan
Morgan Ensberg
Jose Molina

Chien Mien Wang
Phil Hughes
Ian Kennedy
Mike Mussina
Mariano Rivera
Joba Chamberlain
Kyle Farnsworth
LaTroy Hawkins
Brian Bruney
Ross Ohlendorf
Johanthan Albedejo
Billy Traber

Sweet 16 thoughts

UNC over Wazzuu-Wow. I would have thought this game was going to be close but UNC methodically wore them down and were able to do it without Hansbrough for the first half. They look real solid.

Louisville over Tennessee-Louisville, as Bruce Pearl said, controlled the tempo of this game and dominated the Volunteers. They had the huge lead, but then let Tennessee get back into it, but pulled away at the end for the win. Pittino is now 8-0 in the Sweet 16. Wow.

Kansas over Villanova-Kansas was the better team and proved it. Villanova had a hell of a tournament but it had to end. Kansas looks like it should be able to get over the hump now.

Davidson over Wiconsin-If you are not a fan of Stephen Curry, you don't like college basketball. This kid is the real deal and is really delivering for the Wildcats. They are the hottest team in the tournament and are just playing excellent ball. You don't beat Gonzaga, Georgetown and Wisconsin if you're not.

Memphis over Michigan State-Expected this result, but not in that fashion. Memphis led by 30 in the first half and just destroyed the Spartans. Sets up a great game with Texas.

Texas over Stanford-This game was alot closer than the score said, with Stanford getting the score within one with about 10 minutes left. A 23-5 run at the end sealed the deal.

UCLA over W.KY-UCLA sleep-walked through this game and was able to get the W. Scary team.

Xavier over Duke-I have not been high on Xavier all tournament, yet they gritted out this win. If Alexander had hit the free-throw though, WVU is in the Elite 8. Either way an exciting game, and if you are WVU, that inbounds play with 8 seconds left haunts your memories.

My predictions on the Yankees

Here is the over-unders. Let's see how I do at the end of the season.

Wins: Over/Under 93.5
UNDER

How many RBIs will Alex Rodriguez have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 135.5
UNDER

How many HRs will Alex Rodriguez have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 44.5
OVER

What will Alex Rodriguez’s batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .309
OVER

How many stolen bases will Alex Rodriguez have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 22
UNDER

How many RBIs will Derek Jeter have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 74.5
OVER

How many HRs will Derek Jeter have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 12.5
OVER

What will Derek Jeter’s batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .316
OVER

How many stolen bases will Derek Jeter have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 21.5
UNDER

How many runs will Derek Jeter score in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 113.5
UNDER

How many RBIs will Jorge Posada have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 88.5
UNDER

How many HRs will Jorge Posada have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 20.5
UNDER

What will Jorge Posada’s batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .283
OVER

How many RBIs will Hideki Matsui have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 106.5
UNDER

How many HRs will Hideki Matsui have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 24.5
UNDER

What will Hideki Matsui’s batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .292
UNDER

How many RBIs will Bobby Abreu have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 103.5
OVER

How many HRs will Bobby Abreu have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 21.5
UNDER

What will Bobby Abreu's batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .299
UNDER

How many stolen bases will Bobby Abreu have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 28.5
UNDER

How many runs will Bobby Abreu score in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 119.5
OVER

How many RBIs will Robinson Cano have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 92.5
OVER

How many HRs will Robinson Cano have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 19
OVER

What will Robinson Cano’s batting average be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under .308
OVER

How many wins will Chien-Ming Wang have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 16.5
OVER

What will Chien-Ming Wang’s ERA be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 3.71
OVER

How many wins will Phil Hughes have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 11
OVER

How many strikeouts will Phil Hughes have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 118
OVER

What will Phil Hughes’ ERA be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 4.40
UNDER

How many wins will Andy Pettitte have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 15
UNDER

What will Andy Pettitte’s ERA be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 4.06
OVER

How many wins will Mike Mussina have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 12.5
UNDER

What will Mike Mussina’s ERA be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 4.47
OVER

How many starts will Joba Chamberlain make in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 7.5
OVER

What will Joba Chamberlain’s ERA as a reliever be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 2.00
UNDER

How many saves will Mariano Rivera have in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 36.5
UNDER

What will Mariano Rivera’s ERA be in the 08 Season?
Over/Under 2.00
OVER

Who will lead the Yankees in batting average?
Robinson Cano 7/4


Who will lead the Yankees in home runs (excluding Alex Rodriguez)?
Jason Giambi 2/1


Who will lead the Yankees in RBIs (excluding Alex Rodriguez)?
Bobby Abreu 3/2

Yankees 25 man roster almost set

With opening day four days away here is what the Yankees 25 man roster will most likely look like:

Position Players (13)
C-Jorge Posada
C-Jose Molina
1b-Jason Giambi
2b-Robinson Cano
ss-Derek Jeter
3b-Alex Rodriguez
IF-Wilson Betemit
Lf-Hideki Matsui
Lf-Johnny Damon
CF-Melky Cabrera
Rf-Bobby Abreu
Of-Shelley Duncan
of-Morgan Ensberg

Pitching (12)
SP-Chien Ming Wang
SP-Andy Pettite
SP-Ian Kennedy
SP-Phil Hughes
SP-Mike Mussina
CL-Mariano Rivera
SU-Joba Chamberlain
RP-LaTroy Hawkins
RP-Kyle Farnsworth
RP-Brian Bruney
LP-Billy Traber
LM-Darrell Rasner

More to come

Rangers 3, Devils 2 (7-0)

What a great game for the Rangers tonight. The Rangers trailed all-time Great Marty 2-1 heading into the third, but were able to score two goals in the third to win the game, including a goal that was really lucky when Marty deflected the shot right into Nigel Dawes who was falling down and heading into the net and used his momentum to put the puck in.

Great game by Henrik. He only got beat on a deflected shot and a break-away goal set up by a turnover. He is playing his best at the most important part of the season.

The Rangers are now in a tie for fourth place with 91 points with the Senators and Devils.

The Rangers are almost a lock to make the playoffs but there next five games will determine their seeding:
Pitt (2), NYI (2), NJ

American League Preview

AL East
1. Boston Red Sox (AL East Champs)
Last year finish: World Series Champions
Key additions: Bartolo Colon (SP), Sean Casey (IF), David Aardsma (RP),
Key Losses: Eric Gagne(RP), Matt Clement (SP)
Projected Rotation: Josh Beckett, Dice-K, Tim Wakefield, John Lester, Curt Schilling (when injured Clay Buccholz/Bartolo Colon)
Projected Line-up: C-Jason Varitek, 1b-Kevin Youkilis, 2b-Dustin Pedroia, 3b-Mike Lowell, SS-Julio Lugo, LF-Manny Ramirez, CF-Jacoby Ellsbury, RF-J.D. Drew, DH-David Ortiz
Synopsis: The Red Sox return as the World Series champs and look to repeat again as the AL East champions. Although the champs did not improve much at all (although I think that Colon may end up to be a great signing), the team following them (the Yankees) did nothing to really improve at all. Some interesting storylines to watch with the Red Sox include health and the battle for centerfield. Ortiz and Ramirez are both getting older and if they get injured (as happened last year), they might take down the Red Sox with them. Mike Lowell, who had a career year last year, is not likely to hit the ball with so much authority. And who will be the starting centerfielder? Crisp has not lived up to expectations in Boston and Ellsbury seems to be the hot new thing in Boston. The bullpen will be one of Boston's strengths again, but the big factor will be Okie-Doke. Will he be dominant as last year or come back to earth. Francona is a great manager and will pull this team together and I expect a rebound year from J.D. Drew. Expect a tight race but the Sawx to win the division again.

2. New York Yankees (Wildcard)
Last year finish: AL Wildcard (Loss ALDS to Cleveland)
Key additions: LaTroy Hawkins (RP)
Key Losses: Luis Vizcaino (RP)
Projected Rotation: Chien-Mien Wang, Andy Pettite, Phil Hughes, Joba Chamberlain (half-way through season), Mike Mussina/Ian Kennedy
Projected line-up: 1b-Jason "The Giambino" Giambi, 2b-Robbie "what do you know" Cano, 3b-Alex "a-rod" rodriguez, ss-Derek "Captain Clutch" Jeter, LF- Johnny "simply damonic" Damon, CF-Melky "milkman" Cabrera, LF-Bobby "sweet as candy" Abreu, DH- Hideki "Thrilla from Godzilla" Matsui
Synopsis: The Yankees will play a key factor in the American League once again, but this time, it will be as the role of the underdogs. Although the Sawx have not done enough to be the clear-cut favorites for the AL East, the Yankees have not done much to improve either. Adding LaTroy Hawkins is not the answer. The Yankees season is going to ride on the arms of the big three (Hughes, Kennedy, Chamberlain) with all of them being rookies, they will have innings caps which means the Yankees will be scraping for innings come the end of the season. Also, Yankees fan must expect that A-Rod and Posada will not mirror their season from last year. A big player will be the Giambino. If he stays healthy and can hit like he did two years ago, the Yankees will have an extra protection bat for A-Rod. This season will be an exciting one for the Yanks, and if the cards fall right, might end up as divison champs. But for now, plan on the wildcard.

3. Toronto Blue Jays
Last year finish: 3rd AL East
Key Losses: Troy Glaus (3B)
Key additions: Scott Rolen(3B), David Eckstein (SS), Shannon Stewart (LF), Rod Barajas (C)
Projected rotation: Roy Halladay, A.J. Burnet, Dustin McGowan, Shawn Marcum, Jesse Litsch
Projected line-up: 1b-Lyle Overbay, 2b-Aaron Hill, ss-David Eckstein, 3b-Scott rolen, lf-Shannon Steward, cf-vernon wells, rf-alex Rios, c-Greg Zaun, dh-Frank Thomas
Synopsis:If the Blue Jays did not play in the AL East, they could have a realistic shot of each year winning a divison. But unfortunately, the have to contend with the Yanks and Sawx. The Blue Jays strength this year appears to be their pitching, Dustin McGowan is turning into a legitmate stud. I personally like the moves the Jays did this year. Eckstein gives them a nice leadoff hitter who can make things hapen, and i think Rolen will rebound nicely this season and adds gold glove caliber to the defense. A big player will be Vernon Wells, who needs to rebound and get back to the player that the Blue Jays signed long-term prior to last season. Also, will B.J. Ryan return to the form he was before going on the D.L. If he becomes a dominant closer, the Blue Jays will be sitting pretty in the late innings. If evertying breaks right for this team, they may end up making the AL East a 3-way race for the division title.

4. Tampa Rays
Last year finish: 5th AL East
Key Losses: Brendan Harris (SS), Delmon Young (RF), Chris Snelling (LF), Brian Stokes (RP), Elijah Dukes (CF), Josh Wilson (SS)
Key additions: Jason Bartlett(SS), Matt Garza(SP), Troy Percival (RP), Cliff Floyd (DH), Willy Aybar (3B),
Projected rotation: Scott Kazmir, James Shields, Matt Garza, Edwin Jackson, Andy Sonnastine
Projected line-up: 1b-Carlos Pena, 2b-Akinori Iwanura, 3b-Evan Longoria, ss-Jason Bartless, LF-Carl Crawford, CF-B.J. Upton, RF-Rocco Baldelli, DH-Cliff Floyd
Snyopsis: The Rays have the potential to be a sleeper this year. The Rays have always been able to hit the ball well, but their pitching has held them back. This year, the pitching looks to be stronger with the addition of Matt Garza and Troy Percival to be the closer. The Rays should win atleast 75 games this year. A big question mark is the healthy of Rocco Baldelli. If he returns to the type of season he had two years ago, the Rays look much stronger, but he has been injury prone. Also, the development of Evan Longoria will be key. This kid is supposed to be the real deal and will have his chance this year. The Rays should be an exciting club this year.

5. Baltimore Orioles
Last year finish: 4th AL East
Key Losses: Erik Bedard (SP), Miguel Tejada (SS)
Key additions: Troy Patton (SP), Luke Scott (LF), Adam Jones (CF), George Sherill (RP), Matt Albers (SP),
Projected Rotation: Jeremy Gutherie, Adam Loewen, Daniel Cabrera, Troy Patten, Greg Olson
Projected lineup: 1b-Kevin Millar, 2b-Brian Roberts, ss-Luis Hernandez, 3b-Melvin Mora, lf-Luke Scott, CF-Adam Jones, RF-Nick Markakis, DH-Aubrey Huff
Synopsis: This team will be one of the worst in all of baseball. The pitching is suspect, the bullepn stinks and there is not enough production to get a certain amount of wins. The Orioles did the right things in trading Bedard and Tejada, I actually believe they got alot back for Tejada. They should trade Roberts now while they can and get good value. I understand what this team is doing in terms of trying to get back good players for their best, but they will stink for eyras to come.

AL Central
1. Detroit Tigers
Last year finish: 2nd AL Central
Key additions: Jacque Jones (LF), Edgar Renteria (SS), Miguel Cabrera (3B), Dontrelle Willis (SP)
Key losses: Sean Casey (1B), Andrew Miller (SP), Cameron Maybin (LF), Mike Rabelo (C), Omar Infante (SS), Chad Durbin (SP)
Projected rotation: Justin Verlander, Kenny Rogers, Jeremy Bonderman, Dontrelle Willis, Nate Robertson
Projected line-up: C-Ivan Rodriguez, 1B-Carlos Guillen, 2B-Placido Polanco, SS-Edgar Renteria, 3B-Miguel Cabera, RF-Miguel Ordonez, CF-Curtis Granderson, LF-Jacque Jones, DH-Gary Sheffield
Snyopsis: The Tigers had the busiest off-season in baseball by picking up slugger Miguel Caberera and pitcher Dontrelle Willis from the Marlins along with Edgar Renteria and Jacque Jones. On paper, this lineup is the best in baseball. There is no easy out from top to bootm and imagine how scary a Ordonez-Cabrera-Sheffield combination is. The only question about this team is the pitching, but with this line-up, you can give up four runs a game and have a good chance of winning every game. The Tigers are going to be as solid a team as any in baseball.

2. Cleveland Indians
Last year finish: AL Central Champs, Lost ALCS Red Sox
Key additions:Masahide Kobayashi (RP), Jamey Carroll (2B)
Key losses: Kenny Lofton (RF)
Projected rotation: C.C. Sabathia, Fausto Carmona, Paul Byrd, Jake Westbrook, Cliff Lee
Projected line-up: C-Victor Martinez, 1b-Ryan Garko, 2b-Asdrubal Cabrera, 3b-Casey Blake, ss-Johnny Peralta, lf-David Dellucci, cf-Grady Sizemore, rf-Franklin Giutterez, dh-Travis Hafner
Synopsis: The Indians return pretty much the same team from last year's squad, that fell one game short of the World Series. So why are they not the favorites for the division? Simple. The Tigers improved drastically while the Indians did not. The Indians are a soild squad no doubt, but do have some vulnerabilities. Will C.C. Sabathia pitch like a cy young in his contract year? Will Fausto Carmona be solid or come back to earth? Will the Indians get enough production from Blake, Garko and Dellucci? The Indians will be one of the better teams in the American League, but don't have enough to pull it off.

3. Chicago White Sox
Last year finish: 4th AL Central
Key additions: Orlando Cabrera (SS), Carlos Quentin (LF), Nick Swisher (CF), Octavio Dotel (RP), Scott Linebrink (RP)
Key Losses: John Garland (SP), Gio Gonzalez (SP), Ryan Sweeney (OF), Darin Estard (CF)
Projected rotation: Mark Buherle, Javier Vazquez, Jose Contreras, John Danks, Gavin Floyd
Projected line-up: C-A.J. Piercynski, 1b-Paul Konerko, 2b-Alexis Ramirez, ss-Orlando Caberera, 3b-Joe Crede, LF-Carlos Quentin, CF-Nick Swisher, RF-Jermaine Dye, DH-Jim Thome
Synyopsis: The White Sox made some nice moves in the off-season and just like the Blue Jays might be able to make a run if everything works out. The trade for Nick Swisher was a good one as Swisher brings some good offense and a high base percentage to the windy city. Orlando Cabrera will provide a nice presence at the top of the line-up. The emergence of Cuban defect Alexis Ramirez should be interesting. The suspect part of this team is of course the pitching. Behing Buherle and Vaquez, there is alot of question marks with Danks and co. The bullpen should be improved as well with the addition of Dotel and Linebrink, allthough there is still the possibilty for failure with those two as they did not have the best of seasons last year. The White Sox will not be as good as they were three years ago, but should be a a quality team.

4. Kansas City Royals
Last year finish: 5th AL Central
Key additons: Miguel Olivo (C), Jose Guillen (RF), Ron Mahay (RP), Brett Tomko (SP), Yashuko Yabuta (RP)
Key losses: Mike Sweeney (DH), Odalis Perez (SP), David Riske (RP), Emil Brown (CF)
Projected rotation: Gil Meche, Brian Bannister, Zach Greinke, Kyle Davids, Brett Tomko
Projected line-up: C-John Buck, 1b-Ross Gload, 2b-Mark Grudzalniek, ss-Tony Pena', 3b-Alex Gordon, Lf-Mark Teahan, Cf-David DeJesus, RF-Jose Guillen, DH-Billy Butler
Synopsis: I know this gets said every year, but the Royals actually have a chance to be a decent team this year. The team only upgraded by adding Guillen (all though he did do steroids) and the pitching should be better than last year. Brian Bannister had an unheralded season and should continue to improve at his age. The bullpen appears to be stronger with the addition of Ron Mahay and Joaquim Soria should develop into a legitmate contender. The Royals will not be great next year, but will surprise some teams.

5. Minnesota Twins
Last year finish: 3rd AL Central
Key additions: Delmon Young (RF), Craig Monroe (RF), Carlos Gomez (CF), Mike Lamb (3B), Brendan Harris (SS), Livan Hernandez (SP), Adam Everett (SS), Kevin Mulvey (SP)
Key losses: Johan Santana (SP), Tori Hunter (CF), Matt Garza (SP), Jason Bartlett (SS), Carlos Silva (SP)
Projected rotation: Scott Baker, Boof Bonser, Livan Henandez, Fransisco Liriano, Kevin Slowey
Projected line-up: C-Joe Mauer, 1b-Justin Morneau, 2b-Brendan Harris, ss-Adam Everett, 3b-Mike Lamb, rf-Delmon Young, cf-carlos Gomez, rf-Michael Cuddeyer
Synopsis: Let me start by saying the Twins are not your typical last place team but someone has to this year and I think the Twins will be that team. The trading away of Johan Santana may go down as one of the worst trades of all-time as they got back no great prospects in return. But anyway, the Twins rotation is weak outside of Liriano, who is still a question mark returnign from Tommy John. When Scott Baker is projectd as your top starter you know you have problems. As has always been the case with the Twins, the bullpen will be the strong point with Nathan, Neshek, Rincon, etc. But there might not be many leads to protect as this offense is weak. There is limited run productin in the infield and center field. The Twins are going to have to rebuild.

AL West
1. Seattle Mariners
Last year finish: 2nd AL West
Key additions: Erik Bedard (SP), Brad Wilkerson (RF), Carlos Silva (SP),
Key Losses: Adam Jones (RF), George Sherill (RP), Jose Guillen(RF), Ben Broussard (1b)
Projected Rotation: Erik Bedard, Felix Hernandez, Carlos Silva, Miguel Batista, Jarrod Washburn
Projected Line-up: C-Kenji Johjima, 1b-Richie Sexson, 2b-Jose Lopez, 3b-Adrian Beltre, ss-Yuniesky Betancourt, LF-Raul Ibanez, CF-Ichiro Suzuki, RF-Brad Wilkerson, DH-Jose Vidro
Synopsis: After years of turmoil and looking up to the Angels, the Mariners finally looked poised to top the Angels behind a solid pitching staff. Adding Bedard gives the Mariners the top 1-2 punch with Felix Hernandez in the league. Carlos Silva will be an innings eater and when Miguel Batista, who won 16 games last year, is your fifth starter your sitting pretty. The Mariners will have some question marks, though, including whether Richie Sexson can hit like he did two years ago, instead of his awful .205 ba last year. Barring injuries, this team looks poised for a run.

2. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
Last year finish: AL West Champs, Lost ALDS Red Sox
Key additions: John Garland (SP), Torii Hunter (CF)
Key Losses: Orlando Cabrera (SS)
Projected Rotation: John Lackey, Kelvim Escobar, John Garland, Jered Weaver, Joe Saunders
Projected line-up: C-Mike Napoli, 1b-Casey Kotchman, 2b-Howie Kendrick, ss-Erik Aybar, 3b-Chone Figgins, LF-Garrett Anderson, CF-Torri Hunter, RF-Vladimir Guerrerro
DH-Gary Matthews Jr.
Synopsis: While the Mariners made moves to bolster its squad, it seemed as if the Angels got worse. Throw into the mix that pitchers Lackey and Escobar are injured to start the season, the Angels will have to battle to win the division. The offense took a hit by losing Orlando Cabera, but Torii Hunter should help. The pitching should be strong as always. Make no mistake, the Angels will be strong, but are going to look up at the Mariners.

3. Texas Rangers
Last year finish: 4th AL West
Key additions: Ben Broussard (1B), Frank Catalnatto (1B), Josh Hamilton (CF, Eddie Guardado (RP, Milton Bradley (RF, Jason Jennings (SP),
Key losses: Sammy Sosa (DH), Edinson Volquez (SP)
Projected rotation:Kevin Millwood, Vicente Padilla, Jason Jennings, Brandon McCarthy, Kason Gabbard
Projected line-up: C-Gerald Laird, 1b-Ben broussard, 2b-Ian Kinsler, SS-Michael Young, 3b-Hank Blalock, LF-Marlon Byrd, CF-Josh Hamilton, RF-Milton Bradley, DH-Frank Catalnotto
Synopsis: The Rangers will most likely finish third again in the AL West, but have a comeptitive team to field this season. The trade for Josh Hamilton might go down as one of the best trades off this off-season, as he is projected to provide a quality bat in that line-up. The Rangers will be able to hit no problem, but the rotation is a little shaky. Kevin Millwood needs to rebound from a sup-bar year and you never know what you are going to get with Vincente Padilla and Jason Jennings. Although they won't be awful, they will not ge good either.

4. Oakland Athletics
Last year finish: 3rd AL West
Key additions: Carlos Gonzalez (RF), Gio Gonzalez (SP), Ryan Sweeney (LF), Emil Brown (CF)
Key losses: Marco Scutaro (2B), Dan Haren (SP), Nick Swisher (CF), Mark Kotsay (CF)
Projected rotation: Joe Blanton, Rich Harden, Chad Guadin, Justin Durescher, Gio Gonzalez
Projected line-up: C-Kurt Suzuki, 1b-Daric Barton, 2b-Mark Ellis, ss-Bobby Crosby, 3b-Eric Chavez, LF-Emil Brown, CF-Chris Denorfia, RF-Travis Buck, DH-Jack Cust
Synopsis: Billy Beane mortgaged the future for this team, sending away some of its best players in Swisher and Haren to get a handful of great prospects in return. The A's will stink this year because of it. The A's dont have much power in the line-up and dont seem to have great run production. The back end of their rotation is also shaky. Rich Harden, though, could be a candidate for comeback player of the year if he continues to throw like he did in the first game against the Red Sox.


AL Predictions:
MVP: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
Cy Young: Justin Verlander, Detroit Tigers
AL Comeback player of the year: Rich Harden, Athletics
Rookie of the year: Joba Chamberlain, Yankees

Playoffs
Tigers def. Yankees
Red Sox def. Mariners

Tigers def. Red Sox

Round of 32 Analysis

What a great bunch of games.

UNC over Arkansas-UNC completely throttled the Razorbacks and put up 108 on them. Arkansas is not a bad team and to put up 108 on them is pretty damn impressive. UNC is going to be hard to beat.

Wazzuu over ND-Wazzuu just completely shut down Notre Dame's high potent offense, holding them to a brevity of points. It will be interesting to see how their defense holds up against the Tar Heels.

Louisville over Oklahoma-Pittino is one of the best coaches and always has his teams ready for the tournament, and this game showed it.

Tennessee over Butler-Tennessee was given a tough match-up in Butler, who completely tore them apart last season in the pre-season NIT. They had the early lead and blew it, but were able to win in overtime. Their game against Louisville should be one of the best in the tournament as I love watching Pittino and Pearl coach.

Kansas over UNLV-Kansas looked tough and with all the top seeds going out in this region, should be able to finally make it to the Final Four.

Nova over Siena-Nova came out to play again and despite a valiant effort by Siena,had too much for Siena to handle. Nova has made it to the past three out of four sweet 16, pretty impressive.

Wisconsin over Kansas State-I thought that Kansas State had a chance here, but the Big 10 champs took it to em'. This is most likely Michael Beasley's final game as a college player before heading to....Miami?

Davidson over Georgetown-Wow, what a game by Davidson. Georgetown did everything right in the first half limiting Stephen Curry and taking a 17 point lead. But Curry finally started hitting his shots to take down the Hoyas. I was not big on Georgetown in this tournament and it showed. Bad game by Hibbert.

Memphis over Mississippi State-Mississippi State is a pretty good team and it showed, taking the Tigers to the wire. Memphis needs to hit its free throws or they are going to have a hard time advancing.

Michigan State over Pittsburgh-Tom Izzo and Jamie Dixon are two of the best coaches in America and it seemed as if the legs of the Pittsburgh players finally gave out. Drew Nietzel had a great late run to give the Spartans their ticket to the Sweet 16.

Stanford over Marquette-What a game. Both teams played its hearts out, and it came down to Brooke Lopez hitting a great shot to give the Cardinal the win. The game was everything a fan wanted with speed against size, and in the end, size won out.

Texas over Miami-Miami made it close late, but Texas played a solid game. Should be a great game against Stanford.

UCLA over A&M-Was it a foul? Maybe, maybe not, but the Bruins advanced. UCLA played great defense and was able to take a late lead behind a clutch shot by freshman Kevin Love. A&M splayed its heart out and should be proud of everything it did.

WKU over SD-WKU advances to the Sweet 16 in a match-up of two mid-majors.

Xavier over Purdue-Purdue let me down. They took an early 9-0 lead and late 61-60 lead, but could not hold on. I wasn't big on Xavier, but they played solid to make it to the sweet 16.

WVU over Duke-Duke's lack of size came back to hurt it as WVU was able to out-rebound the Blue Devils and eliminate them early for the second straight year. Bob Huggins impact on this team is clear, as WVU has a great chance to make it to the Elite 8.

More to come...

Thoughts after NCAA opening Round

As would be expected, the opening days of the NCAA Tournament were exciting and full of action. My thoughts on each game.

UNC over Mt. St. Mary's-Duh.

Arkansas over Indiana-I did not like Indiana at all coming into this tournament, but I thought that Arkansas was a favorable match-up for them. Arkansas played a good game and in what might be his last college game, Eric Gordon did not fare so well. What a disappointing season for the Hoosiers....I guess Bob Knight wasn't so bad eh?

ND over George Mason-For all you out there that chose George Mason, you've learned your lesson. It was a one time deal. Notre Dame is the better team and showed it.

Wazzuu over Winthrop-The "sleeper" pick that everyone picks every year, but this year they were not that good. Wazzuu is a tough team and fully disthrotled Winthrop.

Oklahoma over St.Joe's-A solid win for the Sooners. Many people like St. Joe's in this one, but Oklahoma played a nice game to earn the victory. They probably won't beat Louisville.

Louisville over Boise State-What else would you expect?

Butler over South Albama-Butler was completely underseeded. How do you go 30-3 and get a seven seed when every coach knows how talented this squad is. Should be a great game against Tenn.

Tenn over American-Duh.

Kansas over Portland State-Portland State isn't Bucknell

UNLV over Kent State-Thanks Kent State. I liked UNLV but thought you might be able to pull the upset and instead you scored 10 points in the first half. That ain't gonna get it done.

Nova over Clemson-What a comeback. I picked this one too. Nova played terrific to come back from an 18 point defecit to pick up the win.

Siena over Vanderbilt-I thought Vanderbilt was overseeded, but did not think they would go down this early.Siena just came to play and really took it to the Commodores.

Kansas State over USC-This killed my bracket. I got seduced by the way USC played at the end of the season and chose USC. But Kansas State and likely top pick Michael Beasley took it to the Trojans to win the game and set-up an interesting match-up with Wisconsin.

Wisconsin over CSU Fullerton-Expected.

Davidson over Gonzaga-Game was played in Raliegh and Stephen Curry went off. Not a good formula for the Zags.

Georgetown over UMBC-Georgetown too talented.

Memphis over UTA-Duh.

Mississippi State over Oregon-I think Oregon might have been the worst at large team in the tourny and Mississippi State is a great sleeper team with the pair of Jamont Gordon and Jarvis Varnado.

Michigan State over Temple-Temple is talented, but Michigan State has too much to handle.

Pitt over ORU-Pitt needed to get over the first game to do well in the tourny and fully dismantled ORU and looked solid. Pitt is a solid team that can go far in thsi region.

Marquette over Kentucky-Despite a great game by Joe Crawford and Ramael Bradley, Marquette pulled out the vicory. The most impressive part was the Golden Eagles ability to do it without strong play of Dominic James.

Stanford over Cornell-Expected.

Miami over St. Mary's-Although Miami was seeded higher, a little bit of a shocker. St. Mary's had some impressive wins and lead at half, but couldn't beat the Hurricanes. Nice win for Miami.

Texas over APU-Expected.

UCLA over MVSU-Duh.

A&M over BYU-Good game. Hard to pick a winner here as A&M lost alot of games late, and BYU was ranked but lost in their tourny. Neither team seemed overly impressive.

W.KY over Drake-I called this one. Although it took a miracle shot, W.Ky did it and should advance to the Sweet 16. I wrote about this team so that's why I chose them.

SD over UConn-Wow. Let me repeat that. Wow. I never expected this. UConn still should have won the game despite losing A.J. Price. Hell of an accomplishment about Calhoun that this was his first ever loss in the first round. Sad to see it end on a shot that guy will rarely make.

Purdue over Baylor-Baylor forgot to show up.

Xavier over Georgia-Georgia looked good at times, but Xavier too good.

WVU over Arizona-Too much outside shooting from WVU to beat the Wildcats, who frankly did not deserve to get in the tournament.

Duke over Belmont-Great game played by both teams. Although some people think that Duke overlooked Belmont, I think that Belmont just played a hell of a game. Sad to see Belmont's hopes go down with a bucket to bucket drive to win the game. Hell of a game.

More updates to come.

Joba to the pen

Breaking news: Joba to the Pen!

Just kidding. This had to happen. Joba was so dominant in the pen last eyar that he had to start there. Ian Kennedy is not exactly bullpen material.

I think Joba will do a nice job before becoming a starter, which will be the ultimat test.

NCAA Predictions

All right folks, here are NCAA predictions you can take to the bank and put your house mortgage on

East
UNC over Mt.St. Mary's
Indiana over Arkansas
Notre Dame over George Mason
Wazzuu over Winthrop
Oklahoma over St.Joe's
Louisville over Boise State
Butler over S.Alabama
Tenesse over American

UNC over Indiana
Wazzuu over ND
Lousiville over Ok
Tenn over Butler

UNC over Wazzuu
Louisville over Tenn

UNC over Tenn

Midwest
Kansas over Portland State
Kent State over UNLV
Nova over Clemson
Vandy over Siena
Wisconsin over CSFU
USC over K.State
Davidson over Zaga
G'town over Beltmont

Kansas over Kent State
Nova over Vandy
USC over Wisconsin
G'town over Davidson

Kansas over Nova
USC over G'town

Kansas over USC

South
Memphis over UT Arlinton
MSU over Oregon
MSU over Temple
Pitt over ORU
Stanford over Cornell
Marquette over Kentucky
Saint Mary's over DA U
Texas over APU

Memphis over MSU
Pitt over MSU
Stanford over Marquette
Texas over St.Mary's

Memphis over Pitt
Stanford over Texas

Memphis over Stanford

West
UCLA over MSU
BYU over A&M
WKU over Drake
UCONN BABY over SD
Xavier over Georgia
Purdue over Baylor
WVU over AZ
Duke over Belmont

UCLA over BYU
UConn over WKU
Purdue over Xavier
Duke over WVU

UCLA over UConn
Duke over Purdue

UCLA over Duke

Final Four
UNCA over Kansas
UCLA over Memphis

Final
UCLA over UNC

There it is folks

King Henrik 2, Marty 1

The Rangers beat the Devils for the sixth straight game last night as Lundqvist bested Marty in the shootout to give the Rangers the much needed points and pull them within 3 points of the lead in the Eastern Conference.

The game seemed out of reach for the Rangers, but a clutch goal by my Fairfield Country boy chris Drrrrrrrruuuuuuurrrryyyy tied the game with four minutes left and then a nice shootout goal by Nigel Dawes won the game.

The Rangers have a tough stretch ahead of them but should do well. Le'ts go Rangers!

Mount 68, SHU 55

Having only attended games of major-level (Syracuse, UConn, the NIT in MSG) I got my first chance to attend a game at a small conference as a fan, not a reporter. The game could not have any bigger ramifications as Sacred Heart was hosting Mount St. Mary's for the NEC bid into the big dance.

My brother Jeff and I went to the game. We showed up an hour early and got our shirts and towels for the white-out that was happening. The atmosphere was awsome as this game was like the Super Bowl for the kids at SHU and the Mount.

My brother and I were rooting for Sacred Heart as my family personally knows head coach Dave Bike pretty well. Bike has been the coach at SHU for an amazing 30 years and yesterday would have been his first dance to coach in the NCAA D-I Tourny. You just had to root for him.

Although SHU came out and scored first, the Mount quickly rebounded to tie the game and then used a nice run to gain a 13-4 lead. Sacred Heart just never seemed comfortable in the game despite being on its home court.

The Pioneers were sloppy and made lots of forced shots and turnovers. They did get the game close with about two minutes left but a very iffy foul call on a shot with six seconds left sealed the Pioneers fate.

The Referees if I might say, were god-awful. They called fouls on every play and did not let the kids play. When there are 20 fouls in the second half alone there is something wrong.

As my brother and I left the arena, I felt pretty disappointed. I really wanted SHU to win and see Bike get his chance in the big dance, but it couldn't happen.

Hopefully next year the Pioneers can do it.

'Nova 82, 'Cuse 63

Syracuse eliminated itself from any shot at the NCAA Tourny this season with a humiliating 80-63 loss to Villanova. Syracuse came out firing early on and took a quick 11 point lead, but Villanova shot lights out in the second half to take home the game.

The turning point in the game I believe was the final 1:15 of the second half, where Syracuse had a 28-19 lead, and insted of going up by double-digit points into the second half, allowed Villanova to go on an 8-0 run to end the half and pull within one. Villanova then came out firing in the second half to pull out the rout.

Syracuse had a hell of a season, don't get me wrong. Playing with six guys for almost the entire season and to get to where they finished was something that was nothing short of impressive. But too many close losses and not enough veteran leadership on the court to get them to the tourny. Well, atleast I get to see one more homegame.

The kiss of death...or kiss of luck

As some of you out there in blog world might now, I wrote the men's basketball national notebook for The Daily Orange this spring. I wrote stories about 10 teams. I want to see how many make the tournament to see whether I am the kiss of death or kiss of luck. Here's the list so far...

Davidson-IN
Bowling Green-OUT
Yale/Colubmia-OUT
Sacred Heart-OUT
Drake-IN
Miss. ST-TBD
W. KY-IN
Kentuck-TBD
Rider-OUT
Citadel-OUT

So far that's five out, three in with two TBD. I'd say i'm so-so so far.

Big day for Sports

I have a nice sports day on slate for today.

First, Syracuse against Villanova in an essential elimination game for the NCAA Tourny. I believe that Syracuse will get in with a win, but Villanova will need to win two to get in. But either way, the loser of the game is gonzo without a doubt. Expect the 'Cuse to win the game and advance to face Georgetown.

Second, my brother Jeff and I are going to the Sacred Heart vs. Mount St. Mary's NEC Championship game tomorrow night at the Pitt Center at SHU. The place should be filled and it will be awesome to attend a game with such ramifications. I have only gone to games at schools like UConn and Cuse', so it will be an experience to watch these teams play where this game determines the team that dances. I like SHU to win.

And of course, there are the other Big East match-ups to keep me interested. All in all, a great day for sports tomorrow.

Yanks 6, Blue Jays 1

Masterful pitching by my boy Wanger and great hitting by El Camadooza, Bobby Abreu, and of course, an absoulte A-Bomb.....from A-Rod! I mean the man clobbered that thing, it was gone off the bat.

The Yankees pitching is seeming to pick it up a little especally with more teams playing their starting line-ups.

And for my favorite reader out there, mother, the home food has been especially delicious and fantastic.

WCC Hurts the Cuse

San Diego just knocked off Gonzaga to win the WCC and claim the automatic bid which hurts Syracuse.

St. Mary's and Gonzaga both have good resumes and are deserving of a bid, which hurts atleast one BCS conference team like Syracuse.

I still believe that Syracuse will determine its own fate, as a loss to Nova in the first round will keep them out, but two wins the in the tourny will get them in definitely.

Yanks 4, Reds 0

Masterful pitching by the Yankees today.

Joba, Traber, MO, Kennedy and LaTroy combine for the win.

Good reound pitching for Joba and IPK after their shaky outings earlier this year against the Twins. And MO has been MO and just striking out all the jabronis that go against him.

A-Rod with a RBI too. Who better than A-Rod?

Yanks sign a legend

In a move to bolster their attempts to bring back a world championship to the greatest city in the world (Boston knows that it cant' hold a candle to New York City) the Yanks have signed Billy Crystal to a minor league deal.

Crystal brings a veteran presence to the clubhouse and should be able to help the youngesters develop.

Best free agen signing ever by Brian Cashman.

On a more serious note, what an awesome thing for the Yanks to do. Simply great.

SHU in NEC Final

Earlier this year in the Daily Orange, I wrote a story about Dave Bike, the coach of Sacred Heart University who has been coaching for 30 yeras and has never made it to the NCAA D-I tourny. Well after winning at Wagner the other day, Sacred Heart is now one win away from making the tournament.

If SHU makes the tournamnet, it couldnt happen to a nicer man. Dave Bike is a great guy and I truly hope to see the Pioneers in the dance this year.

Rangers 3, Sabres 2

King Henrik is my hero. As always the King was on top of his game, allowing the Rangers too pick up two much needed points in the process one day after his league-leading ninth shutout.

The Rangers are just playing some excellent hockey right now and really seem to be gelling and playing like the team that was put on paper at the beginning of the season. If the Rangers keep this up, they might be able to get a top seed for the playoffs.

Funny thing during this game is that MSG had on the Knicks getting beat by 25 by the Mavericks. What a baskebtlal team we have in New York.

And the best part of tonight's win was to get it against the Sabres, who knocked us out of the playoffs last year. I would trade these four wins from this year for playoff wins last year though.

But good win all around.

Home at last

Spring Break has officially begun today. My mother and middle brother Tim came to pick me up. Nice to see the family again and enjoy a long as hell car ride with them that of course included getting lost.

I knew I was home though when I got into that first argument with the youngest brother during two "friendly" games of sports video games.

He trounced me 8-2 (Devils over Rangers) in NHL 2008, but I whooped him 42-14 (Browns over Cowboys) in Madden 2008 so it's a split in my opinion. But he wins overall because he's taller than me.

It's going to be nice to relax and spend quality time with the fam and friends. Sleeping will be nice but that will have to wait until Monday as today i'm helping my brothers wrestle from like 10:00 to 1:00 and then traveling with my friend Chris to go visit our friend Dave at Salve Regina.

And in other news, download this hot song-What you got-Colby O Donis ft. Akon-The track is sizzlin'

This is the first non sports post on here ever so enjoy it, lol.

Wanger gets bombed

Chien Mien Wang will probably want to forget about yesterday's outing, giving up six runs in 2/3 an inning (For those math nerds at home that is an E.R.A. of 81).

Yankees pitching has not been solid the past few days from Joba's homerun that is still in outerspace, Kennedy's bomb to Delmon Young, Wang, and Rasner giving up four in an inning yesterday.

Pitching will be the Yankees big concern this season so days like this are sometimes alarming. I can understand giving up a granny to Adam Dunn, but Edwin Encarnacion? Come on Wanger.

National | Kentucky wins 10 of last 12 in case for NCAA Tournament - Sports

National | Kentucky wins 10 of last 12 in case for NCAA Tournament - Sports

Lack of weights discourage male gym users - News

Lack of weights discourage male gym users - News

Rangers 4, Islanders 1

Great game for the Rangers. They dominated the first and third period, and got great games from Avery and Jagr.

With Boston and Pitt losing, the Rangers are clawing their way into the top spots in the conference. Big game Sunday against Boston.

LeBron....Just Mean

How mean was that for LeBron to drop 50 on the Knicks, then say after the game he loves playing in the Garden.

LeBron, please, just come to the Knicks. Save this franchise. The world needs it, and New York needs it.

Do the right thing LeBron, go to the Knicks.

Giants ink Sammy Knight

I know this is old, but the Giants inked Sammy Knight for three years.

Gibril Wilson left for a huge payday at Oakland. It might turn out to be a good signing as he has worked with Sam Madison and developed chemistry.

I do wish the Giants did a litle more this off-season though.

Sick Shoes

I gave up on the basketball shoes thing in 8th grade, but these shoes might make me go back.

First, they are LeBron's and the man is just nasty. I mean he looks like me in my prime, making it rain. That was a joke in case you couldn't tell or have actually seen me try and make it rain (It rains bricks and air balls).

Second, they rep New York and the Yankees and have the bleacher creatures chant in them.

That's a sick shoe. I gotta see if I want to fork over the dough for them though.

Baseball Preview

I am going to do a comprehensive season preview for baseball. If you enjoy baseball, you'll enjoy this. Look for it on March 31st, opening day.

Knicks?

I said that i post about the Knicks on here so I would do one.

They're awful and I hope they lose every game.

Unless the get LeBron or fire Isiah, I can't root for this team.

Islanders 4, Rangers 3

Islanders edge the Rangers in a shoot-out. Tough game for the Rangers, but as a fan, the game was exciting as hell. The shootout was quailty, and the Islanders got one more though than the Rangers.

Rangers are still 7-0-3 in their last 10, gaining 17 out of a possible 20 points. They still are comfortable in the playoffs points, but need to pick up a win this Thursday in Long Island.

Hysterical

Ok I know i shouldnt laugh at this but this is funny as hell.

And gives you another reason to hate Duke.

http://youtube.com/watch?v=x_3ml_n3-rA&feature=related

Top 20 Countdown: No. 3-The BAMTINO!!!!

Funny story behind this one. This past summer I was hanging out with my best friend Chris in my house, when my father called us both upstairs to show us something. We went upstairs and my pops was sitting there watching the television and told us to sit down and watch. Chris had no idea what we were going to watch, but once I saw the tv, i knew what it was: the BamTino!

Let me give the scenario: Yankees are down 3-1 in the World Series to the Diamondbacks. Two outs, bottom of the ninth and the Yankees are down two games to one. Byung-Hung Kim is pitching lights out. The Yankees are down to one out. Up steps Tino Martinez.

First pitch, fastball in the kitchen, and the BamTino goes yard. There is absoulte pandemonium at the stadium.

While watching this in my kitchen, my father and I both yelled the bamtino, while my friend Chris just laughed (Red Sox fan, idiot) at the moment.

How do you not love the Yankees?

Top 20 Countdown: No. 4-My first championship

1996.

A year that will forever have a special place in my heart.

The first time that I ever remember celebrating a team winning a championship (For the record, my teams have won a combined 7 titles in my time, 8 if you include UConn in 2004).

The Yankees were a gusty team that year. Atlanta was supposed to be the New Yorkers. They came in and kicked the crap out of the Yankees in the first two games. But the Yankees responded to win the next four and give New York something to cheer about when they won 4-2 and started the Yankee dynasty.

My favorite image from that World Series is Charlie Hayes catching the pop-up and then jumping in the air, symbolizing that the New York Yankees were champions of the world.

Now let's go get #27 this year!!!!!

Favre retires

Brett Favre has retired. These words have been thrown around for the past few years, but never would I thought that it would come true this post-season.

Although I am a New York Giants fan at heart, I admire everything that is Brett Favre. If there is one man who represents the child in all of us that loves playing sports, it's Brett Favre. Take one look at the photograph of him winning the 1996 Super Bowl or any touchdown he's thrown to see the little kid in all of us celebrating.

The game was never about money to Favre. Favre didn't play so he could make the almighty buck or to celebrate touchdowns. He played the game because he loved the sport. He played with an enthusiasm for the sport that few can parallel.

One moment that sticks with me is Favre's game against Oakland the night after his father died. With all of the emotion that was boiled up in him at that moment, for him to be able to go out there and do what he did was simply incredible. You could see the pain on his face through that game. Watching that game, you almost felt like his father was out there with him guiding him.

Was Brett Favre the strongest quarterback? No. Was he the smartest quarerback? No. But Favre played the game like no one else and broke records left and right. Although he might not measure up with some quarterbacks like Brady, Bradshaw or Montana in terms of championships, the leadership that Favre exalted is unparalleled.

Brett Favre was the Green Bay Packers. He was the Lambeau Leap. He was the city of Green Bay. The man was as goo a leader at the hardest postion in sports as one can find.

Although Favre's last memory might be throwing a game-losing interception to the Giants in the NFC Championship, his accomplishments are as plentiful as any quaterback.

The Packers had a legitmate chance to make the Super Bowl this upcoming season, but Favre called it quits. Enough was enough. He left on his terms and is walking out a legend in the sport of professional football.

Thanks Brett for the memories.

The Giambino!!!!

Yes, I know spring training means nothing, but was there anything more beautiful than watching the Giambino go deep today? I wish I could've heard John Sterlin: "The Giambinooooo".

And on a side note, the Rangers won AGAIN. Big game tomorrow night vs Islanders.

Rangers postseason look

With the NHL season coming to its finale, I thought I would take a look at how the Rangers chances of the post-season are.

As of now, here are the standings:
1. Devils-80
2. Senators-80
3.Hurricanes-71
4.Canadians-79
5.Penguins-79
6.Bruins-76
7.Rangers-74
8.Flyers-73

The Rangers remaining schedule is as follows:
Phi, NYI, @ NYI, Bos, @ Buf, @ Fla, @ TB, Pit, @ NJ, @ Phi, Phi, NJ, @Pit, Pit, @NYI, NYI, @NJ

That makes:
10 games against playoff teams, 7 against non-playoff teams

The Rangers ultimately control their own destiny. But the team has been playing well, which fares well for its chances. The Rangers are choosing the best time of the season to 6-0-2 in its last 8 games.

The scary thing on this schedule, though, is four games against the Islanders. The Rangers, historically, have problems with the Islaners and DiPietro (a great goalie) seems to have Henrik's number. Those four games will be crucial.

If I have to predict, Pencil the Rangers in for one of the last three spots.

Yankees 9, Phillies 3

Yes I know its only spring training but it's good to see the Yankees bats do some good work today.

Wang was effective, throwing two good innings and only giving up one hit.

Shelley Duncan and A-Rod each went deep, with Duncan driving in five runs. I can't wait for March 31st.