It's over, sorta, kinda

It has been awhile since I've written anything. Sometimes sports, and I love them all for the most part, just become mundane at times. I've been following the baseball scene but in the big picture I didn't feel a need or want to write about each day's games.

Now we've hit September and both the White Sox and Cubs are pretty much where I thought they would be right around .500. Technically both teams still have a chance at the playoffs. Realistically, no chance.

Today, or late last night, the Sox traded one of the finest gentlemen in the game in Jim Thome. More amazing he went to the Dodgers where they have a very good first baseman in James Loney and they don't use the DH. Thome is a horrible pinch hitter and has played one game in the field in the last three seasons because of recurring back and heel injuries.

The Dodgers got him with the idea that they have a great chance of going to and winning the World Series. That would be great for Thome since he's never won a ring. But what is he going to do all September? I do not see him being effective at all for them even if they get to the Series. Bad move Dodgers.

Some are calling this White Flag 2 for the Sox because they found a sucker in Colorado to take Jose Contreras. I don't really view these two moves as surrending at all. Contreras has done nothing to help this team since June so his leaving is an addition in my mind because the pitcher who takes his spot will not be any worse.

Sox fans loved Thome. He has been our power threat from the left side but in the last month he has been just that, a threat. No big hits and when he did get on he clogged the bases. I'm not sure who becomes DH, maybe Carlos Quentin, but maybe Ozzie can add speed to the lineup. So losing Thome doesn't hurt as much as some think.

Bottom line is that the Sox are six games behind Detroit. Unless everybody starts hitting, they stop making errors, and the pitchers start pitching better keeping Thome and Contreras wouldn't have made a difference.

But, it would be funny if the Sox got hot and made it to the World Series and Bobby Jenks strikes out Thome to win game seven.

Yay or nay?

Phil Rogers of the Chicago Tribune wrote a story that suggested, no demanded, that the Cubs dump Carlos Zambrano immediately. He was tired of his antics against the White Sox on Sunday in losing 6-0.

The Tribune ran a poll asking fans should the Cubs get rid of him? So far over 16,000 votes and amazingly almost 57% say get rid of him.

The man does not control his emotions well. Granted. He is still one of the most talented pitchers in the game.

What the Cubs need to do is get rid of pitching coach Larry Rothschild and get a coach with backbone to stand up to the immature Zambrano. Thoughts?

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Missed the memo?

At what point do we deem somebody needing help or decide the guy is a blasted idiot?

Milwaukee Brewers prospect Jeremy Jeffress was suspended for 100 games Monday after his second violation of baseball's minor league program for a drug of abuse.

A 21-year-old right-hander, Jeffress also was suspended for 50 games on Aug. 30, 2007. He was Milwaukee's top pick in the 2006 amateur draft, the 16th selection overall, and received a $1.55 million signing bonus.

He was 2-1 with a 2.18 ERA in five starts and one relief appearance for Class-A Brevard County of the Florida State League when he was suspended Monday. He went 1-3 with a 7.57 ERA in eight starts for Double-A Huntsville of the Southern League earlier this season.

"We are obviously disappointed because Jeremy has such great major league potential, and this is a setback in his career," Brewers general manager Doug Melvin said in a statement. "We will continue to assist Jeremy and help him with his problem as long as he wants to help himself."

Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press

More bat tricks

The bat guy is back with a couple more tricks.



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Great bat trick

This guy has an amazing maneuver with the bat. He's Josh Womack of the Long Beach Armada.

He gone! She gone! You're all gone!

If this is what it takes to control a game I'm for it. Was everybody afraid of him?

WEST BURLINGTON, Iowa - An umpire has emptied the stands at a high school baseball game, ejecting the entire crowd of more than 100 fans for being unruly.

Umpire Don Briggs said he had no problem with any of the student athletes during Thursday's game between Winfield-Mount Union and West Burlington.

He said he had to take action because fans were being unruly, yelling and arguing.

However, West Burlington Superintendent James Sleister said he didn't see any unusual behavior and said he thought the umpire overreacted.

The game resumed after a 40-minute delay. West Burlington won 12-11.

The umpire called police as a precaution. West Burlington police officer Al Waterman says there were no arrests.

See ball, hit ball!

As I write this the White Sox are facing another pitcher they have never seen, David Huff of the Cleveland Indians. As usual they have just three hits and are trailing 6-0. Should they go on to lose they will be 1-8 against unseen pitchers.

This is pathetic. I don't understand it and am quite frankly sick of the whole thing.

Last week the Sox came home for an 12 game homestand by winning seven of ten games. Two of the AL's weakest teams, Oakland and Cleveland, were the first opponents. After beating the A's in the first game 6-2 the Sox just stopped hitting and were shutout three times in six games.

How do professional hitters just stop hitting and then become terrorized by unseen pitchers? When the Sox usually start a rookie pitcher he gets lit up. I really think the Sox hitters would have trouble with a college team right now.

Our pitching has been fairly good so far except for Colon and with some decent timely hitting the Sox should be four or five games in front. Amazingly, they're just three and a half games back of Detroit who they have five games with this week.

If this team can't be more consistent hitting it will be a long summer.

Big Zzzzzz for Piniella

How long before Carlos Zambrano tears the team apart?

It will be up to Chicago Cubs manager Lou Piniella to decide what to do about Carlos Zambrano missing a team plane to Atlanta on Monday.

The Cubs manager is in charge of discipline for any violation of airplane policy.

It's common to get permission not to fly with the team. And according to sources close to the matter, Zambrano's teammate Ryan Dempster asked for -- and received -- permission to fly later to Atlanta in order to help take care of some personal family business.

Everyday when I see Piniella it just seems like he'd rather be somewhere else. Does this man care? His pitchers do as they please, except pitch. If not for Randy Wells pitching like he has who knows how bad they would look.

The rookie looked like a winner over Atlanta until Lou's top two relievers Carlos Marmol and Kevin Gregg couldn't hold a 5-1 lead with six outs to go only to lose 6-5 in 12 innings. I never saw any fire from Piniella once.

I think GM Jim Hendry needs to start thinking new manager. Piniella has no control of this team and he may not care either.

Losing it?

People in Chicago scream about Ozzie Guillen and his antics, well they better start looking at Carlos Zambrano. This guy needs some serious help. Lou Piniella also needs to grab control of this out of control team.



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The cycle of baseball

The game of baseball is so cyclical it's amazing that all the teams don't end up 81-81. Thank goodness for the Nationals of the league.

Last week I was moaning about how crappy the White Sox were playing as they were losing 12 of 15. Then they wake up and have won 5 of their last 7. Including a 20-1 loss to Minnesota and a 17-3 win over the Angels last night. Go figure.

They get turned down by Jake Peavy in a trade for him which in essence may have been a wake up call by Kenny Williams to the whole team. Shape up or ship out. They still need better hitting with men on base and starters John Danks, Gavin Floyd, and Bartolo Colon need more consistency. At 20-24 this is not a record that intimidates teams but maybe they're ready get things going.

Of course most Cubs fans think their team is in first place by ten games. Reality, they're 21-22 and mired in an eight game losing streak. I had mentioned how they were winning but not playing well. They are playing the same way and it caught up to them.

This is a team close to imploding.

Let's see, Ted Lilly gets thrown out of the game that he's not even in, Ryan Dempster gives his best stuff to the Gatorade machine, Milton Bradley blames the Tribune for making him say stuff about the umps, they use Carlos Zambrano as a pinch hitter on a cool damp night as he's just days off the DL and Neal Cotts keeps longing for 2005 and his days with the White Sox. All that in a 10-8 loss to Pittsburgh

You better start waking up Cubs fans and realize that Jim Hendry is not doing a good job so far. The injuries are piling up and he's not doing much to find fill-ins.

I know Cubs fans, you have a better record. Guess what? We're not in your division, lucky for you.
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This could be exciting

This could be huge if it happens

The San Diego Padres have agreed to trade staff ace Jake Peavy to the Chicago White Sox and are waiting for Peavy to decide if he will waive his no-trade clause, sources tell ESPN.

Peavy has a full no-trade clause and can veto the deal.

We all thought Jake Peavy could end up in Chicago, but with the White Sox? Buster says it could happen and then checks other deals that could be in the making.

ESPN's Peter Gammons reported that according to sources, the White Sox will send the Padres four players to complete the deal.

Sources told Gammons that White Sox shortstop prospect Gordon Beckham is not among the players in the deal. Beckham was the eighth overall pick in last year's amateur draft.

ESPNChicago.com's Bruce Levine reported that White Sox players in the deal include left-handed pitcher Clayton Richard and left-hander Aaron Poreda, a former No. 1 draft pick.

Peavy called White Sox right-hander Scott Linebrink last night for his opinion about going to Chicago and got strong feedback, Gammons reported.

"Jake called me [Wednesday] afternoon to ask about what it's like here in Chicago," said Linebrink, according to ESPNChicago.com's Levine. "I think he's ready to move on, but I can't tell you for sure he's going to accept the deal. Losing 100 games, like they did last year, wears on a player.

"Right now, I'd say it's 50-50 as to whether he accepts it or not. He'll get with his family today and make a decision."

Linebrink was Peavy's teammate in San Diego.

The San Diego Union-Tribune reported Thursday that the two teams were near a deal and that according to team personnel, Peavy met with Padres manager Bud Black late Wednesday night to discuss the possibility. Peavy declined comment after meeting with Black, the newspaper reported.

The Padres were said to be close to dealing Peavy to the Chicago Cubs during the offseason, but that trade did not materialize.

Peavy, who won the 2007 NL Cy Young Award, has a 89-67 career record with a 3.27 ERA. In 2007 he earned the pitching Triple Crown by leading the National League with 19 wins, 240 strikeouts and a 2.54 ERA.

Peavy is due to earn $11 million this season. Padres GM Kevin Towers has said the Padres are about $5 million above the $40 million player payroll that the team's majority owner, John Moores, has set for this season, according to the Union-Tribune.

Peavy is currently 3-5 with a 3.82 ERA for the Padres, who are 18-22 and third in the NL West, 10 games behind the first-place Los Angeles Dodgers.

Lame tidbits

I can't do a rant and rave on the Cubs/Sox because the Sox are struggling big time and the Cubs are winning but not playing great. The Sox just seem to have little excitement on the field. Maybe I'll call Ozzie.

The Blackhawks started their Western Conference finals as I expected. Teams that wait for a series to begin while the opponent was still playing always have no rhythm and start slow. Detroit's goalie, Chris Osgood, did rebuff the young Hawks' surge in the first period and set the tone for the game. I think the Hawks will be better in game 2 on Tuesday night.

Couple of pet peeves: 1st. I hate hearing about all these kids leagues that don't keep score of the games. Call it practice then. Sports is about winning and losing, being good sports, and playing the game right. My friend Marcella's son had a soccer game the other day and scored a goal in a 4-3 win. I said, "I thought they didn't keep score." She said, "Everybody keeps score." There you go.

2. I read today that some parent punched his son's little league coach because he thought he said something negatve about his kid. Nice example for your son butthole. I almost would like to see parents stay away from their kid's games. Most parents probably have no clue about the sport their son or daughter is playing anyway. Let your kids enjoy the game. Stay home.
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I want this to happen more

This was extreme but I want to see more of this in the future

Bryan Fuller told his Campbellsville University coaches he was never going to play baseball professionally, so he was willing to sacrifice his arm.

With much debate and reluctance, but knowing what was at stake and what their other options were, his coaches acquiesced.

Fuller, a senior, ended up pitching 21 shutout innings in 26 hours as Campbellsville (Ky.) advanced to the NAIA World Series in Lewiston, Idaho, where on Friday it will face Lee (Tenn.).

Campbellsville had fallen into the loser's bracket in its NAIA super regional, and needed to win three straight to get the World Series berth. Against Lindenwood on Thursday, Fuller, who throws sidearm, pitched three scoreless innings for the save.

With just 25 minutes between games, Campbellsville's coaches decided to start Fuller in the next game, against Kansas Wesleyan, which had won 26 straight. Fuller, according to assistant coach Jake McKinley, "is an undersized kid" who had started only once previously in four seasons.

"We were nearly out of pitching and he looked comfortable," McKinley said. "We told Fuller we would need him to make his second career start and if he could give us three or four innings, that would be great, and it was in the biggest game in the history of our program against a team that had won 26 straight games."

Fuller ended up pitching a complete game as Campbellsville snapped Kansas Wesleyan's winning streak with a 11-0 victory.

That put Campbellsville in the final. According to McKinley, the coaches were prepared to start their No. 1 pitcher on two days' rest, but Fuller wanted the start.

"We told him no way, because we didn't want to hurt him ... He just threw 12 innings the day before," McKinley said. "He told us that he was a senior that will never play pro ball and he was going to be an accountant in just a few weeks. He said he didn't care about his arm and told us he will give us a chance to win."

And he did, using just 77 pitches in his second consecutive complete-game shutout as Campbellsville (39-10) beat Kansas Wesleyan again 4-0, giving the Tigers their first NAIA World Series appearance in school history.

"We're not sure yet, but we are not opposed to using him in any role," McKinley said. "At this point, we'd be fools not to start him."

Old Time Baseball

The notion that Alex Rodriguez has tipped pitches to opposing players in return for their tipping pitches to him -- one of the more bizarre allegations in the new biography of the Yankees third baseman -- has generally shocked players and executives throughout baseball. It shocked Jim Price, too. But Price, a Detroit Tigers television broadcaster, at least spoke from experience. Price was the Tigers' catcher on Sept. 19, 1968, when he and pitcher Denny McLain conspired to give Mickey Mantle a going-away gift. A few weeks from retirement and tied with Jimmie Foxx with 534 career home runs, Mantle came to the plate in the eighth inning with the Tigers comfortably ahead, 6-1. Detroit had already clinched the American League pennant -- this was before leagues were split into two divisions, let alone three -- and McLain had already won his 30th game. Price, a second-year reserve who was playing to give Bill Freehan a rest, walked out to the mound to give the 9,063 fans in Tiger Stadium one last chance to pay their respects. "When I got there, Denny said, 'Hey, big guy, should I let him hit one' " Price recalled Thursday night in a telephone interview. "I said it was a great idea. Mickey was always nice to me. So I went back behind the plate and Mickey, like he always did, was tapping the plate with his bat when I said, 'Want us to groove one for you' " Mantle apparently didn't believe Price, but when he saw McLain nodding on the mound, he understood what was going on. "High and tight, mediocre cheese," Price said Mantle responded. McLain served up a few that were apparently not gift-wrapped quite as neatly as the Mick preferred. But then came exactly what Mantle was looking for, and he hit a rocket into the upper deck in right field, the next-to-last home run of his career. "McLain was clapping as Mickey was rounding the bases," Price said. "And when he crossed home plate, Mickey thanked me. The next batter was Joe Pepitone, and he said, 'Give me one, too.' And I go, 'No way, you're not Mickey Mantle.' "

New York Times

Wow!

NEW YORK – Manny Ramirez has been suspended for 50 games by Major League Baseball, becoming by far the highest-profile player ensnared in the sport's drug scandals.

The commissioner's office didn't announce the specific violation by the Los Angeles Dodgers outfielder, who will lose about one-third of his $25 million salary.

Majored in what?

Check out these guys playing beer pong at Olivet University in Bourbonais, Illinois. Their parents will be proud.

Some thoughts

Bulls- I have not been a big fan of the NBA since the Bulls had Michael Jordan. Not that I'm a front runner, it's just that it was fun to watch how they played as a team. Today's game is more about individuals, thugs, and big contracts.

However, the Bulls/Celtics series has been amazing. Four overtime games and coming up Saturday the decisive seventh game to declare a series winner. I have not seen this many exciting games in the NBA for a very long time with all the back and forth scoring. Neither team has been pretty and without a doubt MJ, Pippen, Rodman and company would trounce both of these teams. But it has been fun for six games.

Sox- Another White Sox experiment has failed in outfielder Jerry Owens. If he could just steal first base he'd still be around. Amazing how a player with his speed and not listen to coaching can kill a career. Hit the ball on the ground, bunt, and draw walks was all he had to do. So this means 2005 star Scott Podsednik is back. How long before we hear strained groin? I think Kenny Williams is going to have to make a move.

Cubs- I wonder if they wish they still had Mark DeRosa and Kerry Wood. Milton Bradley and Carlos Marmol aren't doing much.
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Just a note or two

Today the White Sox are playing an old fashioned doubleheader with Seattle. Not a day/night affair but two games for the price of one. When was the last time this happened?

The Blackhawks win a playoff series for the first time since 1996. These guys are pretty fun to watch. They could win a championship before the Cubs.

I say nothing!

Well here we are on April 25th and the first official Milton Bradley confrontation has erupted. Who had this date in the pool?

As I see it Lou Piniella is somewhat responsible for this, maybe even GM Jim Hendry. When Bradley hurt his groin last week his history should have dictated to putting him on the DL. It's a lingering injury to begin with and the chilly damp weather is of no help. Nope. Lou says he'll be fine and there's Bradley barely able to run. Piniella needs a meeting with Bradley to tell him he won't play until he's healthy. I think 30,000 people in the ballpark could figure that one out Einstein.

Of course Bradley is made out to be the bad guy because he won't talk to the press. Again his past history affects him here but I do agree with him in the sense that the media puts the focus on him and will certainly miscontrue something he says and then people get mad at him. If the guy doesn't want to talk, don't bother him. If he was put on the DL like he should have been this controversy isn't taking place and I might win the pool because I had May 1st.

Looking at both teams two weeks into the season it's still tough to gauge things. The Sox are 8-7 and should probably have a couple more wins. They are tied for first place with Kansas City and Detroit.

It would appear Carlos Quentin has picked up where he left off last season and leads the majors with 7 homers. This team does have more speed and trying to utilize it with Chris Getz, Brian Anderson, and Brent Lillbridge. There have been flashes of power and speed and I think by mid May we'll have a good idea about this team.

The pitching has been fairly strong. John Danks and Gavin Floyd have been outstanding. The big surprise has been Bartolo Colon and Jose Contreras. Two veterans coming off injuries who weren't even supposed to be ready. Colon with the elbow surgery looks stronger right now. Contreras with the torn achilles is throwing good but his control is still off.

Thankfully the Mike MacDougal saga is over. It was worth one more try after a great spring training. As usual with him it didn't carry over.

The Cubs at 8-6 and in fourth place probably should be more dominating but as long as Piniella keeps hitting Ryan Theriot in the eight spot and Derek Lee third the offense will stagnate. I've only seen a little bit of the Cubs so I'll say nothing more like Bradley.
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Four no-nos in a row

I have a feeling college might wait. Unless his arm falls off.

NEW PORT RICHEY, Fla. (AP) -- A Florida high school pitcher tossed his fourth consecutive no-hitter.

Mitchell High senior Patrick Schuster did it Monday night on his home field at the suburban school northwest of Tampa.

The lanky left-hander struck out 17 to help his team beat rival Pasco High 5-0 in front of a full house of several hundred spectators.

"I never thought this would happen," he said. "I'm just having so much right now."

Schuster's streak began April 3. He's piled up 60 strikeouts in the four games, helping Mitchell to a 19-3 record. He's 7-0 on the season.

He said he was trying not to think about the streak, but late in the game he asked his outfielders to take a few steps because he didn't want to give up a bloop hit.

Mitchell coach Scot Wilcox called the performance "vintage Schuster."

"I'll tell you what, he's got command of every single pitch," Wilcox said. "His curve ball, his slider, his change-up, he was just spotting it nicely. He was keeping their hitters off balance."

Schuster said the streak has been harder on his mother, Sharon, than it's been on him.

"I've got the confidence, and she's over there biting her nails and stuff," he said. "I'm having fun with it and she's nervous. She's probably going to make me cry as soon as I see her."

Schuster, whose fastball tops 90 mph, has signed to play at the University of Florida next year but hasn't ruled out going straight to professional baseball.

The record for consecutive no-hitters in high school baseball is six.

Two bad calls

Chicago Cubs outfielder Milton Bradley has been suspended two games for arguing balls and strikes and making contact with umpire Larry Vanover.

The discipline announced Saturday by Major League Baseball stems from an outburst in Thursday's loss to the St. Louis Cardinals. Bradley was caught looking at a called third strike with the bases loaded while pinch hitting in the sixth inning.

I saw this incident and I have to say he does not deserve a suspension. I guess his reputation will always hurt him.

Last Wednesday was Jackie Robinson Day in baseball. I think it's great to honor him every year and that his number 42 is retired by all the teams. However, I think it's stupid when every player wears 42 on his day. How does this honor his legacy? It doesn't.

The Madden Cruiser has parked.

John Madden is calling it quits.

NBC said Thursday that the burly ex-coach who has been one pro football's top broadcast analysts has decided to retire. The 73-year-old Madden has been working for the past three seasons on NBC's Sunday night NFL game. His last telecast was the Super Bowl between Arizona and Pittsburgh.

Since he left coaching in 1979, the former Oakland Raiders coach has worked as an analyst for all four broadcast networks. His "Madden NFL Football" is the top-selling sports video game of all time.

Madden is reluctant to fly and often traveled to games in a specially-equipped bus. He said in a statement that he still loves all aspects of the job, "but I know this is the right time."

I always enjoyed listening to Madden do the games. When he was teamed with Pat Summerall they were the number one football announcers duo. Even when he switched to Monday, then Sunday, night football with Al Michaels they were a top three tandem.

He talked the game like he coached, simple. His skills have slipped the past few seasons so kudos to him on leaving before he became a blathering fool.

Deja Vu?

The White Sox agreed to terms on a minor league contract with outfielder Scott Podsednik, one of their 2005 World Series heroes who was recently cut by Colorado.

Death takes no holiday

What a wave of death in baseball.

Last week the Angels Nick Adenhart is hit by a car and dies.

Today, the Phillies long time announcer Harry Kallas died in the booth about an hour before their game in Washington. He had a distinctive voice that everybody knew, especially if you saw NFL films. His signature home run call was, "Outta here!" He was 73.

Then about a half hour ago, former All-Star pitcher Mark "The Bird" Fidrych has been found dead in an apparent accident at his farm in Northborough, Massachusetts. He was 54.

Worcester County district attorney Joseph D. Early Jr. says a family friend found Fidrych about 2:30 p.m. Monday beneath a pickup truck. He appeared to be working on the truck, Early said.

The colorful right-hander was the American League rookie of the year in 1976 when he went 19-9 with a 2.34 earned run average. He spent all five of his major league seasons with the Detroit Tigers, compiling a 29-19 record and a 3.10 ERA.

His career was cut short by injuries.

Cubs clatter

Today is the Cubs home opener and it's odd as usual.

First, why hasn't this game been pushed to tomorrow? It's cold, rainy, and windy. It's not called yet so the Cubs can sell their concessions and make more money. Don't they care about the fans and their comfort? Probably call it when the bank hits $250k for the day and do it again tomorrow.

Early this morning some idiot hung a dead goat on the Harry Caray statue. People are stupid. Security cams are everywhere and nobody saw this happening. Cubs PR move?

Lou Piniella wake up and play Reed Johnson everyday. The guy can flat out play defense and won the game when he took the grand slam away from Milwaukee's Prince Fielder. In the end, Milton Bradley getting hurt won the game. Johnson replaced him the inning before.

Finally, they had the longest spring training ever. Good time to evaluate all the players. Last night Piniella the Cubs manager said he won’t use Kevin Gregg “in the eighth inning, because he sits here, and he goes out and his leg is a little tighter in the ninth. I wasn't aware of that." Was Lou even in Arizona the past two months?

It is just a game

The White Sox have opened the season with a wimper at 1-2 and the Cubs are a more robust 2-1. Suddenly the game of baseball means so little when tragedy strikes just as it did Thursday morning to the Los Angeles Angels.

Just a few hours after the most impressive game of his brief career, Nick Adenhart -- just seven miles from the mound where he threw six scoreless innings -- the 22-year-old right-hander was killed by an alleged drunk driver, the latest calamity in a baseball franchise haunted by a history of misfortunes.

Adenhart and two friends were killed early Thursday morning when their car was broadsided by a driver who police said had a suspended license and a previous drunk driving conviction. The news of the young pitcher's death stunned friends, teammates and fans, some driving to the Fullerton intersection to place flowers and candles in the roadway and others going to Anaheim Stadium, seemingly just to be there.

It's always a shock when a professional player dies during the season. It wakes one up and tells you, these players are human beings too. They die naturally and tragically like everyone else.

I remember when I heard Roberto Clemente died in a plane crash. The same when the Yankees' Thurman Munson died. I went to the Sox-Angels game in 1978 where their outfielder Lyman Bostock was murdered the night before in Gary, Indiana. All of them gave me that pit in the stomach feeling of shock.

I don't know these players personally but as a fan of the game it's just a certain sadness that hits and a reminder that life can be taken from anyone at anytime. Enjoy life while living.
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Put it on the board!

The thrill of yesterday's White Sox home opener still resonates within me. There aren't too many more exciting things in baseball than a three run home run late in a game to snatch victory from defeat. Jim Thome's blast off former Cubs closer Kyle Farnsworth was majestic on it's flight to left center and catapulted the Sox into first place with the 4-2 win over Kansas City.

I know it's only game one but it's still nice to be on top. If this is how it's going to be all season then Hawk Harrelson is right when he says, "Strap it down!" I know I won't be able to sit back and relax though.

Mark Buehrle really struggled. How he only allowed two runs shows why good pitchers can pitch bad and keep you in a game. Josh Fields making a nice play and forcing a runner at home was the play of the game.

It's way too early to criticize, good or bad, right now but one thing I would like to see is somebody stop AJ Pierszynski from trying to leg out doubles. Somebody did a base running analysis and AJ came out as the worst base runner in the league last year. He's going for the title again.

It was really great to hear Steve Stone do the game. He explains the game so effortlessly and works well with Harrelson. Only thing, Hawk needs to quit calling him Stone Pony 20 times a game. Once is enough.

It's a beeeeeautiful sunny day for a game. Temps in the 50's. But no, they're playing a night game so everyone can freeze their asses off. I never understand that scheduling.
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Some this some that

Just some tidbits from the world of sports.

Michael Jordan was elected into the Hall of Fame today. Truly the best basketball player in the history of the NBA. I saw him in person and on TV. Not much else to say but WOW.

Tonight is the NCAA Championship game. North Carolina against Michigan State. I'm shocked MSU is there. My prediction, Tar Heels 84-76.

Jose Canseco has a theory why Manny Ramirez had a hard time getting a contract. He's one of the 104 guys on the steroid list. Interesting thought.

The Blackhawks finally make the playoffs for the first time in seven years. To the deceased Bill Wirtz, "See what you were missing all those years."

How ironic that Jay Cutler wears number six on his jersey. One of the best Bears ever wore it too, Kevin Butler. What are the odds of that one? A Butler/Cutler combo.

That's all for now

Play (snow)Ball!

Opening Day for baseball. The only time of the season where every team is tied for first place.

Each team's fans just know this is their year to win the whole thing. But they give up four runs in the first and that's it for the season, wait til next year!

I can't explain the excitement of the home opener. No other sport comes close to the feeling. Living in the Chicago area, the opener is rarely a nice day. Today's White Sox opener was pushed to Tuesday because of three inches of snow, temps in the 30's, and 30mph winds. Tomorrow will be much better when it hits 40.

Still the fans want to be there. I remember my dad and I going to the old Comiskey Park in the early 80's and being part of the biggest opening day crowd ever. Over 52,000 saw the Sox lose to Milwaukee on a brutal day for baseball. The electricity of the crowd seemed to block out the drizzle and chill.

The first game at US Cellular had hopes for the resurgance of the Sox. Frank Thomas, Robin Ventura, Carlton Fisk, and Jack McDowell. Another frigid day and the Sox got killed 11-0 by Detroit.

The most memorable opener was 2006. The night the World Series championship banners were raised. It was at that time where it sunk in to me that my team was the champs. It was chilling and brought tears to my eyes. The Sox beat Cleveland 2-1 that night and the repeat was on. Cubs fans would never be able to handle the Sox winning two series in a row. By June the Sox were in first and something went wrong and the repeat was not going to happen.

So tomorrow begins another season. Is this the year they return to take back the trophy? I'm hoping it is. If not, just one game better than the World Series less Cubs will suffice.

Yankee stadium good, Cubs bad

I saw the New Yankee stadium on TV this weekend and I have to say they did a real nice job. I'm impressed.

The company who built it should rebuild Wrigley Field. Seriously.

Oh yeah the Cubs showed how good they are getting beat 7-4 and 10-1. The long season begins Monday.

What? Bears come out of hibernation.

I was hoping to stick on baseball and continue trying to explain to Cubs fans why their team won't be so hot, but the Chicago Bears did something they rarely do and that was to make a stunning trade.

The Bears got Denver Broncos quarterback Jay Cutler and a fifth round draft pick for quarterback Kyle Orton, this year's first and third round draft picks, and next year's first round draft pick. Considering how well general manager Jerry Angelo has done with first round picks maybe this is a good deal.

However, is the one year pro bowler Cutler the answer to an anemic Bears' offense? I'd say yes and no.

I say yes because he is more mobile than Orton. Can throw a deeper pass which should better utilize the speed of Devin Hester. Has always wanted to be a Bear. We don't hear too many guys say they want to play for the Bears. These are all positives.

Now the reason I'm leaning towards Cutler not being the answer is simple, offensive coordinator Ron Turner. The Bears have no real idea on developing quarterbacks and who is going to guide the talented Cutler to the next level? I really thought Rex Grossman was a steal when the Bears drafted him from Florida and he helped get the Bears to the Super Bowl. But for some reason he regressed and that reason was Turner who didn't know how to utilize his skills and the lack of a good quarterback's coach to teach him. Grossman and his confidence were so beaten down by the fans and the media he may never play again.

The fans and media have been clamoring for a franchise quarterback. The reality is no quarterback will truly thrive here. Do you think Peyton Manning would be who he is if he was a Bear? Absolutely not. The organization doesn't have the quarterback mentality because they always focused on running the ball.

Cutler will be an upgrade if they utilize his arm strength and get away from the pointless two yard pass play. They also need some real receivers. Greg Olsen should get better and the never used Earl Bennett was Cutler's favorite receiver at Vanderbilt. Did you get that Mr. Turner? Hester is a threat but they need a bonafide pass catcher.

Finally, the Bears made a free agent signing I know will help when they lured offensive tackle Orlando Pace to the team. My friend Mike thinks he's too old at 33. This seven time all-star, despite recent injuries, is the answer to the retirement of John Tait. His leadership on the line should only help last year's number one pick Chris Williams.

Still everything on offense will come down to Turner and his play calling. Players won't matter.

Cubs not fine in 2009!

Here it is April Fools Day and our topic couldn't be better, the Chicago Cubs. The team that's been playing a joke on it's fans for 100 years and counting.

Last year the Cubs won the World Series, in February. Remember the fans celebrating like crazy. Fukudome and Carlos Zambrano hugging each other. Shouts of the curse being over. Finally the Cubs had won the championship after 100 long years of waiting. The season didn't start until April however.

Last year by all accounts the Cubs had a very good ballclub. They won 97 games and had the second best record in baseball. They were ready to steamroll right to the Series. For the second straight year they couldn't even win one playoff game.

Here we are in 2009 and on paper the Cubs once again look like they'll blow through the NL Central like a tornado in Will county. The fans are more subdued so far but again many think it's in the bag. Well Cubs fans it's not your year again. As a matter of fact you'll be downright sorrowful when they finish 81-81.

This team still has plenty of talent but if injuries occur they have nothing of value or talent in the minors. Injuries and the loss of Mark DeRosa are what bring this team down.

In spring training there have been rumblings that Derek Lee has been hurt, Rich Harden is still having problems with his shoulder, and even Zambrano hasn't been quite right. They signed Milton Bradley who always gets hurt or suspended. Even their supposed god like closer, Carlos Marmol, is wounded. His ego is anyway as manager Lou Piniella named Kevin Gregg his closer. Marmol thought the job was his but I guess he forgot how The Netherlands knocked him around in the WBC. So now he'll sulk but I like Lou's approach to Marmol, "Quit yer cryin' and pitch."

DeRosa being gone will be their biggest loss. When Fukudome sucked DeRosa filled in at right. If Aramis Ramirez was tired or hurting he'd go to third, or short, or second. He always seemed to get the big hit. This year they don't have anybody close to him. Aaron Miles is solid but not even close to DeRosa.

Piniella also needs a different lineup. Here's mine: Ryan Theriot, Mike Fontenot, Soriano, Ramirez, Lee, Bradley, Geovany Soto (great catcher), Reed Johnson, and let Zambrano hit everyday. Lee has killed many big innings batting third by hitting into far too many double plays and Soriano should avoid the double play better.

The central may have a surprise the veteran heavy Houston Astros. Veteran teams are dangerous. Sorry Cubs fans but your .500 team won't be good enough. Cardinals or Astros.

Batter up!

It's that great time of year. Winter is on it's last leg, Spring is trying to get a hold and opening day for baseball in Chicago is April 6th. Life is good.

Today we'll take a look at the only Chicago team to win a World Series in the last 100 years, the White Sox.

It's shaping up to be an interesting season. Kenny Williams cut the cord on some established veterans and basically said it's time for the younger guys to put up or shut up. Well the first guy to be shut up was centerfielder, Jerry Owens. Here's a guy who was given the position and the leadoff spot in the batting order by Ozzie Guillen to begin spring training.

Owens came out and hit a dismal .208 with three stolen bases. The man has the speed to steal 50 bases but his refusal to bunt, hit the ball on the ground to get on base, and take a walk forced the Sox to yell uncle and put him on waivers.

So journeyman Dewayne Wise, 31, gets the job with a solid spring hitting .285, 5hr, and six stolen bases. He'll be effective for the Sox both defensively and at the plate. I would prefer Juan Pierre of the Dodgers but his salary is no fit.

Williams also said goodbye to fan favorite and All-Star Joe Crede and said Josh Fields is at third. Fields has shown he can hit and will do just that. Can he catch the ball? He will not replace Crede's defense but they said that about Crede when he replaced Robin Ventura. Fields will make the plays he has to. The more confident he gets the better he'll be.

To me my biggest concern in the lineup will be Carlos Quentin. Wrist injuries are tricky. They feel and look ok the following year but something always seems amiss. He hasn't lit up spring training so I don't know. I think we'll know by May.

My lineup would be this: Wise, Alexei Ramirez, Quentin, Jim Thome, Jermaine Dye, Paul Konerko, AJ Pierszynski, Getz, and Fields.

Bill from Evergreen Park (hello) suggests: Wise, Ramirez, Dye, Quentin, Thome, Konerko, Fields, AJ, Getz

My brother Mark's idea: Wise, Ramirez, Quentin, Dye, Getz, Thome, Konerko, Fields, AJ

I think Quentin is a better 3 hitter and Dye to clean up the mess. I would like a speed threat in front of Thome and/or Konerko to get a distraction on the pitcher. Plus, they get more fastballs that way.

Pitching will go as Jose Contreras and Bartolo Colon go. If they are solid after their injuries then they will only add to Gavin Floyd, John Danks, and Mark Buerhle in the rotation.

The bullpen is solid and got a surprise as Mike MacDougal fought his way back on the team this spring with 19 K's in 12 innings. As long as he keeps his head I like it.

I see the AL Central as a five team race. KC is the weakest but much improved. Sox wins 80-86.

Welcome to Jock Strap Sorts

Welcome to the first installment of Jock Strap Sports. My goal is to cover sports from the amateurs to the pros. Hopefully you'll have strong opinions on the topics and share them with us. For today I have quick thoughts on different things.

NCAA Tournament:
How can Louisville and Oklahoma go from scoring machines to nothing with one day off? These two destroyed my chance of winning the pool I'm in. They were my championship game matchup. Within four hours they ruined it for me.

Tiger Woods:
I guess he needed a couple tournaments to test his knee. He's good. To be five shots down as he was Sunday in The Arnold Palmer Invitational and come back to win on the final hole. Amazing. I wonder if Arnie made the invitations on his computer.

High School stupidity:
Last week North Lawndale High School's boys basketball team was given a technical foul before their state semi-final game. Why? Because a stripe on their uniform was a 1/4 inch too wide. The school wore the uniform all season without incident.

Then right before their chance to qualify for the big game some IHSA official idiot, Kirk Gibson, demands the referee make the call. Champaign-Centennial made the technical. North Lawndale blew a ten point fourth quarter lead to lose, that's right, 66-65.

Unless a team is wearing something vulgar on their uniform it shouldn't matter what size stripes, circles, or squares they have. It's a game and some schools are lucky to even have uniforms. Mr. Gibson go back to your office and don't come out until the season is over. Let the kids play.

The next day for the third place game, North Lawndale in defiance wore the same uniform. Got a technical but went on to win and take third place.

Coming up in the next day or two my outlook on the upcoming season for the Cubs and White Sox. Until then, cinch 'em up.