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by Digger

Most teams had their share of underachievers who were showered with plenty of boos bellowed by jam packed crowds. Eric Bedard (injured) was one of baseball's coveted free agent starting pitchers last winter. Pedro Martinez was to help bring a title to Shea. Detroit's off season free agent frenzy had fortune tellers predicting post season play. Two New York teams bidding farewell to home stadiums rolled the dice ... and lost!. Seattle was to challenge Los Angeles in an AL West showdown. Major League Baseball's Office of the Commissioner was to hand out penalties arising from "The Mitchell Report". None of these things happened in '08.

Time to hand pick my favorite duds, underperfomers, underachievers, lame ducks, primadonna's, goats and blundering players of 2008.

TEAM CHOKE ARTISTS AWARD
New York Mets - Mets magic faded with Carlos Beltran's series ending Game 7 called strike three National League Championship Series at bat in 2006. Back to back September collapses doom Mets in 2007/08. Shea Stadium closes with Mets failing to make the Playoffs on season's final day.

KIDS WRECK PARENTS DYNASTY AWARD
Steinbrenner's (Yankees) - Boss George was arguably the most devoted owner in all of sports. He took control of the Yankees and molded Championship calibur teams. When his teams weren't playing up to snuff, he let them know. Sometimes famously in headlines read nationwide... prompting tales from the "Bronx Zoo". Prior to 2008 season, Boss George handed over the reigns. Hank and Hal Steinbrenner now control day to day operations. Their hands off style was noticeably absent when the Yankees needed a swift butt kicking. This season was to be a spectacular sendoff to Yankee Stadium. A monsterous payroll in excess of $200,000,000.00 was to bring another exciting Playoff appearance. Yankee Stadium hosted the All Star Game. New York's string of consecutive playoff appearances stood at 13. Frustrated with a lack of recent Series victories, Yanks and Joe Torre parted ways. Then, anything and everything went wrong for a team often looking lackadaisical, overweight, overmatched and out traded. The world's most famous Stadium has closed forever ... remaining silent during 2008 MLB Playoffs... for the first time in recent memory.

TOUGH LOVE AWARD
These players never voluntarily retired. Some were either released or became free agents with no offers. Many were just laid out to pasture after baseball owners changed tunes following the Mitchell Report. Barry Bonds, Kenny Lofton, Bernie Williams, Sammy Sosa and Mike Piazza.

BACK TO THE DRAWING BOARD AWARD
Seattle Mariners (61-101) - Retooled and ready to challenge Los Angeles for AL West division honors... so they thought. Seattle fired Manager John McLaren after the team flatlined (27-45). Players injured (Bedard, Putz), career worst seasons (Richie Sexson) and sloppy play highlighted 2008. Seattle is ready for another fresh start.

HOW DID WE LOSE? AWARD
Detroit Tigers (74-88) - Picked by many for a return trip to the World Series (lost in 2006). Detroit was relying on big years from maturing starting pitchers (Justin Verlander 11-17, 4.84; Nate Robertson 7-11, 6.35; Jeremy Bonderman 3-4, 4.29) anchored by rising star Dontrelle Willis (0-2, 9.38) and crafty veteran Kenny Rogers (9-13, 5.70). On offense, Tigers were to roar. Stars seemingly everywhere: Miguel Cabrera, Magglio Ordonez, Pudge Rodriguez, Carlos Guillen, Edgar Renteria, Gary Sheffield and Curtis Granderson were the big names expected to light up scoreboards with crooked numbers game after game. Manager Jim Leyland was to piece it all together. Detroit was horrendous opening the season. Losers of their first seven (and 10 of 12) left this team searching for answers. Tigers clawed back to 3 games over .500 (55-52) before they lost their bite for good.

2008 ALL WORLD ALL SPORTS "NON-STARS" OF THE YEAR
C - Kenji Johjima (SEA). He stunk at the plate, both hitting (.227) and fielding (.988) while signal calling a 101 game losing team. Honorable Mention: Jason Varitek (BOS).
1B - Richie Sexson (SEA). What happened to this once feared hitter? Batting .218 got him jettisoned out of Seattle. Yankees gambled then folded after a weak 22 game tryout. This is a two time 45 HR season player quickly gone bust. Honorable Mention: Paul Konerko (CHW).
2B - Robinson Cano (NYY). Resigned to a 4 year $30,000,000.00 contract, Cano was goat-like this season. He finished the year with halfway respectable numbers (.270, 35 2B, 14 HR). Don't be fooled by numbers. He's two years removed from batting .342. Began 2008 hitting .151 in March/April. .246 before the All Star break. Manager Joe Girardi finally benched him for not hustling in the field. He was terrible with games on the line and looked like someone who couldn't be bothered trying to play hard. Honorable Mention: Luis Castillo (NYM)
3B - Mike Lamb (MIN). Lamb had spent years fighting for playing time as a fill-in extraordinaire. Minnesota gave Lamb his long awaited shot... choked (.233, 1 HR) before the Twins finally gave up. He'll be home watching Monday's one game winner take all Playoff game between Minnesota vs Chicago. Honorable Mention: Bill Hall (MIL).
SS - Tony Pena (KC). Pena quickly went from being the Royals shortstop of the future... to history. Overpowered by big league pitchers (.169 BA, .189 OBA) this kid may never get another shot at starting. His replacement took full advantage of an open door (Aviles, .325 BA, 27 2B, 10 HR). Honorable Mention: Khalil Greene (SD).
LF - Eric Byrnes (AZ). Byrnes had back to back years of showing great improvement as Arizona's catalyst before leg woes derailed this season. His mistake for trying to play thru it from early spring training instead of taking proper care of the problem. Self above team. Team missed post season. Bad move. Honorable Mention: Shannon Stewart (TOR).
CF - Andruw Jones (LAD). What happened to Andruw Jones????????? No one has fallen harder then Mr. Jones. This former Gold Glove All Star hit a combined 92 home runs in 2005/06. He dipped to .222 BA in '07. He never showed up in '08. An abismal .158 batting average, 3 home runs in 209 AB's. He was put out of misery by injury back in August. Returned to play just one game before Manager Joe Torre thought it best to demote him for reconditioning. Jones might be thru. Honorable Mention: Corey Patterson (CIN).
RF - Jeff Francoeur (ATL). Francoeur's star was on the rise. A cannon armed line drive hitting rightfielder who seemed destined for future stardom. Coming off of back to back 100 RBI seasons. Then came 2008. He slumped to .239 with only 71 RBI. Batted .236 or below in 4 of 6 months. Honorable Mention: Austin Kearns (WAS).
DH - Travis Hafner (CLE). Once a prominent and feared power hitter, Hafner looked completely lost at the plate before and after being injured. Career .289 hitter prior to '08, hit only .197 with career low .323 slugging. Completely off balance in the batters box. Honorable Mention: Jose Vidro (SEA).
STARTING PITCHER - Miguel Batista (SEA). Batista was counted on as M's #3 starter. His failures (4-14. 6.26) led directly to Seattle falling out of contention early. Walked (79) more than he struck out (73) in only 115 innings. Truly an ugly year. Honorable Mention: Carlos Silva (SEA), Justin Verlander (DET), Nate Robertson (DET), Greg Reynolds (COL).
CLOSER - C.J. Wilson (TEX). On the upside, Wilson was 24 of 28 in save conversions. However, the downside loomed large. Sporting a not so nifty 6.02 ERA, Wilson's 2008 season came to a close by way of injury and attitude. He'll be remembered for a slight tamtrum when being removed from a game by Manager Washington. Instead of handing the ball to Washington, Wilson flipped it which is a baseball no-no (sign of disrespect). Texas fans already had enough of their erratic closer and let him have it. Honorable Mention: Manuel Corpas (COL).
MANAGER - Willie Randolph (NYM). Randolph's Mets were set up to win NL East after a historic September collapse in 2007 (and gutwrenching loss in NLCS Game 7, 2006). New York signed one of baseball's best pitchers (Johann Santana). Young stars were supposed to have matured after recent events. Randolph was to be ready do duplicate successes learned under Joe Torre's tutelage. It never happened. Mets opened (34-35) looking sloppy and unmotivated. Randolph's failures made sportspage headlines. When Willie later accused media types of playing the race card, things really turned sour. He was finally fired after 69 games. Games lost in April are just as important as games lost in September... in the Mets case... equally important. Honorable Mention: Bud Black (SD), Joe Girardi (NYY).

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by Digger

Baseball had many memorable moments in 2008. From no hitters to pennant races fought to the final day, 2008 will probably be best remembered by Tampa Bay coming from nowhere to win AL East division crown.

All World All Sports names our Players of the Year.

MVP
AL: Dustin Pedroia (Boston). In only his 2nd full season, Pedroia did it all in '08. Boston faced many injuries and traded one of their stars (Ramirez). Pedroia excelled everywhere in the lineup (including cleanup). Timely hits, stellar defense and coming thru with the game on the line. Honorable mention: Carlos Quentin, Jermaine Dye, Kevin Youkilis, Francisco Rodriguez.

NL: Albert Pujols (St Louis). The Cardinals weren't expected to contend this season but Pujols had them in the thick of a pennant race most of the year. Pujols is one of the greatest hitters baseball has seen. He played with a bum elbow requiring off season surgery and put together a monster season nonetheless. NL MVP contenders are plentiful. Honorable mention: Ryan Howard, Carlos Delgado, David Wright, Ryan Ludwick.

Cy Young
AL: Francisco Rodriguez (Los Angeles). FRod (62 saves) shattered Bobby Thigpen's 57 save record. FRod no less than 9 saves each month. Rodriguez simply dominated opponents. Honorable mention, Cliff Lee.

NL: Brandon Webb (Arizona). Webb posted a winning record every month. He kept Arizona in the hunt all season. Only blip was late season losses trying for win #20. Honorable mention, Tim Lincecum, Ryan Dempster, CC Sabathia.

Rookie of the Year
AL: Evan Longoria (Tampa Bay). Longoria was instrumental in leading Tampa Bay to their first ever division title. It didn't take TB long to realize this kid was a keeper (long term multi-million dollar contract in April). Hopefully, Longoria can handle October Playoff pressure. Honorable mention, Jacoby Ellsbury.

NL: Geovany Soto (Chicago). Cubs signal calling backstop delivered in a big way during his rookie campaign. Soto handled his pitching staff like an old pro. At the dish, he helped slug the Cubs to a divsion title. This kid is here to stay. Honorable mention, Joey Votto.

Manager of the Year
AL: Joe Maddon (Tampa Bay). Just about ever crucial move Maddon made paid huge dividends for the Rays. Tampa Bay beat out Boston and New York to win their first ever division title in their first ever winning season. Maddon deserves accolades for keeping his young players focused all season long. Honarable mention, Terry Francona.

NL: Joe Torre (Los Angeles). Torre was virtually cast aside by the Yankees after 12 straight playoff appearances. He was even disrespected when the curtain closed on Yankee Stadium. NL guru's all predicted big seasons from Philadelphia, Chicago, New York, Milwaukee, Arizona and Colorado. The Dodgers, while talented, weren't ranked too high. Torre's Dodgers fought thru key injuries to front line players. Joe kept his cool and managed. Late season acquisitions of Manny Ramirez and Casey Blake woke up an offense struggling to score. Now they're flying high heading into '08 post-season. Torre is enjoying a 13 year streak of consecutive playoff appearances. Guess what? His former Yankees team missed the playoffs. The Steinbrenner's should be regretting letting Torre go without a fight. Honorable mention, Cecil Cooper.

Players of the Year by Position

American League:
C - Joe Mauer (Minnesota)
1B - Kevin Youkilis (Boston)
2B - Dustin Pedroia (Boston)
3B - Evan Longoria (Tampa Bay)
SS - Jhonny Peralta (Cleveland)
LF - Carlos Quentin (Chicago)
CF - Josh Hamilton (Texas)
RF - Jermaine Dye (Chicago)
DH - Aubrey Huff (Baltimore)
SP - Cliff Lee (Cleveland)
RP - Francisco Rodriguez (Los Angeles)

National League
C - Brian McCann (Atlanta)
1B - Albert Pujols (St Louis)
2B - Chase Utley (Philadelphia)
3B - Chipper Jones (Atlanta)
SS - Hanley Ramirez (Florida)
LF - Ryan Ludwick (St Louis)
CF - Carlos Beltran (New York)
RF - Andre Ethier (Los Angeles)
SP - Brandon Webb (Arizona)
RP - Brad Lidge (Philadelphia)

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by Digger

Shea Stadium will host its' last regular season baseball game on Sunday. Cross town rival New York Yankees closed out their historic Yankee Stadium earlier this week. New York says goodbye to two historied parks. Both will move into new state of the art baseball facilities next season.

For Yankees' fans, the Stadium represented baseball history. Greatness. Superiority. Legends. The House that Ruth Built.

For Mets fans, William Shea brought NL baseball back to the city after Dodgers and Giants bailed for California. 1969 was the Miracle Mets. 1973 You Gotta Believe. 1986 The Magic is Back.

As a kid growing up on Long Island, Shea was fairly close to home (20-25 minutes by car or train). Shea was the first stadium my dad took me to watch a game in 1968 (don't ask if I remember at 3). Soon enough, we were attending many games and I was fortunate enough to meet my childhood stars in person.

Yankee fans always thought they ruled the day over Mets fans. 20 something yada yada Championships. Some guys named Ruth, Gehrig, Mantle, Dimaggio, Goose, Guidry, Jackson, Pettitte, Jeter. The Hall of Fame is filled with Yanks.

Mets players were a bit more colorful, couldn't hit very well until the 80's ... but we did have some star pitchers. Seaver, Koosman & Matlack were a great 1-2-3 in the 70's for weak hitting teams. They all could have won 20 in same years with run support. Doc Gooden took the city by storm. Tug, Franco, Myers were a few closers. Darling, El Sid, Ojeda. Hitters... early stars were Cleon Jones, Ed Kranepook, Don Clendenon, Dave Kingman, John Milner. Fan favorites Rusty Staub and Lee Mazzilli starred in the 70's/80's. Then came Carter, Keith, Darryl.. and now it's Reyes, Beltran & Wright.

Until recently, Mets had a magical mystique. No pivitol game ever seemed out of reach. More times than not, Mets teams managed to win the big one. Just like any other clubs there were some hard defeats (73 Game 7 Series vs Oakland, '88 NLCS vs LA, '06 NLCS vs STL). Best of all was 1969, 1986 miracle runs. Worst of all was '07 collapse .. '08 is a repeat with less drama.

Shea was much more than a baseball stadium. Broadway Joe Namath was star of the town when his New York Jets played home games in Shea. 1969 Super Bowl Jets overcame tremendous odds to beat NFL best Baltimore Colts for the crown. Many famous performances from the Beatles to Billy Graham to Billy Joel playing the final show in Shea.

Weird how both stadiums close down in the same year. Years of memories experienced with friends and family members in these venues. Stadiums being torn down represents some sort of baseball evolution. Another reminder of how quickly time passes. Mets were in need of a new stadium. Yanks surprised me by following thru on destroying the most famous sports stadium. From a dollars and cents perspective, it's easy to see why Boss George was itching to move. Yanks owners will make out like bandits. New Yankee Stadium will blow minds while generating tremendous revenues. Mets new park hopes to do the same. With an economic downturn in progress, we'll soon find out if expensive baseball tickets still fit within corporate and personal budgets.

My most memorable games attended at Shea....
1973 NLCS Staub batting hero, Rose pummels Harrelson.
1973 September visiting in Mets clubhouse before game vs Cubs (won).
1986 NLCS Dykstra 10th inning HR wins it.
1975 Lee Lacy give me his bat
1976 meeting the Big Red Machine
and every game I ever went to with my dad.

Shea will be missed. Life is moving full steam ahead. Life changes all the time. People come and go. Time marches on. (are violins playing?)

New York will have a new generation of "first times" in '08 when both franchises launch another chapter in their storied histories.

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by Digger

Week 3 had a few big surprises. Miami's KO of New England ranks as the weeks shocker. Overall, I picked 10 winners correctly (hardly bragging rights material). Time to give week 4 a shot.

San Francisco (2-1) @ New Orleans (1-2): SF is playing inspired football after back to back wins over Seattle and Detroit. NO has lost back to back thrillers. This game could be a slugfest. SF escapes with the win, 33-31.

Atlanta (2-1) @ Carolina (2-1): So far so good for the Birds. One man wrecking crew Michael Turner flies around opposing defenders (59 rushes, 366 yds, 5 td). Carolina provides a true test after beating up powderpuff winless teams (Detroit, KC). Panthers spread the wealth on offense. A two headed rushing attack of Stewart & Williams. Delhomme making sound reads but only 1 td. We'll go with an upset here. Falcons fly, 26-20.

Cleveland (0-3) @ Cincinnati (0-3): It's a battle of winless Ohio teams. Cleveland's offense has been tragically bad. Cincinnati played the Super Bowl Champs well last weekend before losing in overtime. Cincy finally gets a win vs a weak Browns team, 36-9.

Houston (0-2) @ Jacksonville (1-2): Houston's franchise struggles continue. Jags stunned the Colts in Indy for their first win. Here comes another. Jags romp, 26-10.

Denver (3-0) @ Kansas City (0-3): Denver is NFL's #1 scoring team. KC's rushing D allows an average of 204 yds/game. Not a good combination. Denver will pile it on. KC needs a new coach and might get one after this shellacking. Denver 55-0.

Arizona (2-1) @ New York Jets (1-2): It's been the Kurt Warner show in Arizona so far. The Jets secondary crashed vs SD. They won't be able to cover Fitzgerald (16 catches) or Boldin (17 catches). Favre is still getting used to offensive schemes. Offensive coordinator needs to simplify things. Jets not ready for prime time yet. They will pour it on after a week 5 bye. Arizona wins, 31-23.

Green Bay (2-1) @ Tampa Bay (2-1): Green Bay opened the season on fire until Dallas rode to town last week. Tampa's Brian Griese threw 67 passes vs Chicago including the game tying td with 00:07 left in regulation before winning in overtime. Overall team stats are nearly identical. This has the makings of an anything can happen game. Turnovers and Special Teams will make the difference. Tampa wins 34-31.

Minnesota (1-2) @ Tennessee (3-0): Both enter week 4 with opening day QB's riding pine. Vet Gus Frerotte was steady at the helm last week after being named starting QB (won). Not many remember Titans QB Collins once led the Giants to the Super Bowl (lost). He's been playing relatively mistake free football for undefeated Tennessee. NFL's #3 defense has played a huge roll too. Titans keep rolling, 20-16.

San Diego (1-2) @ Oakland (2-1): Tale of two teams in opposite directions. SD dropped two heartbreakers before grounding the Jets 48-29. Oakland was beginning to believe after a week 2 victory and leading Buffalo most of last week before crumbling. San Diego remains focused at winning their first Super Bowl. Oakland may lose their coach after this weekend. Things are very rocky in the Raiders camp with coach and owner trading headlines. San Diego clobbers Oakland, 38-17.

Buffalo (3-0) @ St. Louis (0-3): Buffalo believes! They beat Seattle and Jacksonville before showing their character coming from behind with 17 fourth quarter points vs Oakland. These guys play solid fundamental football. St. Louis has benched Bulger for Trent Green. Green is one hit to the head away from the end of his career. Rams problems go well beyond a change of signal callers. Buffalo bangs Rams horns, 27-10.

Washington (2-1) @ Dallas (3-0): Game of the week! Redskins/Cowboys is one of NFL's greatest ever rivalries, second to none. This is the biggest early season game of the year. NFL's NFC East is far and away the best. Composite records are 10-2. Washington can't afford to lose this one. How will they slow down the Cowboys attack? They can't. Dallas is firing on all cylinders. Cowboys dominate, 44-27.

Philadelphia (2-1) @ Chicago (1-2): Defensive matchup of the week. Eagles are banged up on offense which isn't a good recipe vs a pounding Bears D. Chicago lost two back to back nailbiters by 3 points each. Bears can be instant contenders if they start making big plays down field. Tough game. Team with less turnovers prevail. Bears finally on the right side of a tight one, 17-15.

Baltimore (2-0) @ Pittsburgh (2-1): Ravens QB Flacco faces his first monster defense this week. Baltimore has looked good in their two wins. Defense is stiffling once again. Pittsburgh's offense has struggled to score while defense keeps games close. RB Parker is out. Heavy hitting battle will won on the line of scrimmage. Ravens win, 24-13.

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by Digger

It happens every season. The list is long. Star players exhibiting selfish attitudes, arguing with fellow players or coaches, becoming locker room distractions, drugs/alcohol etc. High profile players are often tumultuous. Terrell Owens, Chad Johnson, Randy Moss, Ricky Williams, Chris Carter are a few big names from recent years.

Super Bowl Champion New York Giants (3-0) aren't immune. Star wideout and team reception leader Plaxico Burress has been suspended by Coach Coughlin for missing team meetings earlier this week. Evidently he didn't return Coughlin's calls seeking an explanation. Burress is an idiot. His team is undefeated. There's no good reason to become a distraction when most things seem to be going right for New York.

Sometimes timing is everything. This is not the right time for a starting wr to be missing more practices. Burress didn't partake in many spring activities since he was nursing an injury. He's been hobbled recently too but has performed well in games so far. Giants have a bye this week meaning they don't return to the gridiron until October 5. Burress isn't eligible to return until the 6th.

It's sad how certain players continuously do stupid things. Usually deriving from putting themselves above others. Some recover (Moss, Carter, Ownes). Some don't (Quincy Carter, Ryan Leaf). The verdict is still out on others, including Burress. At least with Burress, he comes to play on game day. I'll give him credit for giving it all when on the field. Coughlin has laid down the law. It's up to Plax to do the right thing from here on in off of the field. He's an integral part of the Giants attack so for his teams' sake, wake up!

When do these guys ever learn? Chad Johnson should have paid better attention to Owens when he and McNabb were fueding. He came across as a babbling selfish fool. Chad Johnson continues agitating tactics against Cincy's entire organization. His latest antic was legally changing his name to Chad Ocho Cinco.

Most of these guys should just shut up and play. Nobody likes drama queens so leave it in the parking lot fellas. Not many fans will sympathize with multi-million dollar game players who whine or disrupt team chemistry. Burress can either take this suspension like a man. Stay in game shape on his own (not allowed to work out with team). And, when the dust settles... come back playing inspired football. Or, he can continue his little drama and face further ramifications. The choice sounds easy for level headed folks. But, this is the NFL where anything can and usually does happen. New York has deep depth at WR. They're all talented and eager to play.

Not participating in practice has become the norm for this guy. After signing a lucrative deal back in '05 he wanted to be traded only a few months later. Last year, he rarely practiced at all due to a bum ankle. Not sure why any level headed player would skip out on film sessions unless there's a point to be made. Hopefully, not a drug related incident. We'll soon see how this plays out. The worst thing for him to do is open his mouth spouting off at the team.

Giants QB Eli Manning has plenty of weapons on offense. Burress will be missed but this is a resilient cast of characters. Plax would be wise to take notice former loudmouth TE Jeremy Shockey was kept away from players during their Super Playoff season (traded in off-season). Top management will have no problem suspending Burress for the remainder if he keeps up his non practice participation ways. Snap out of it. Suck it up and be a team player.

Coughlin should be admired for reminding players exactly who runs the team. He's the man in New York, take it or leave it. He's also very well focused on the Giants task at hand. He's the Mission Master. NFC East is NFL's toughest. Giants (3-0), Cowboys (3-0), Redskins (2-1), Eagles (2-1). There's no room for error. TC's a perfectionist.

The younger receivers normally watching from the sidelines will get a shot when Seattle comes to town October 5th. Manning has been so precise it won't matter who's on the receiving end. They're all gamers.

Plaxico, get with the program or begone!

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by Digger

Future Hall of Famer and first year New York Jets starting Quarterback Brett Favre is proving even legends are human. His career in Green Bay was stellar. 62,301 yards passing, 448 touchdown passes and a slew of other NFL records belonging the man in green wearing #4.

New Yorkers mistakenly believed Favre's sudden arrival, coupled with New England losing superstar QB Brady to injury, would instantly label the J-E-T-S as Super Bowl contenders. Favre became Green Bay's full time starting QB back in 1992 and hasn't missed a game since. His cannon arm remains strong. His field presense still strikes fear in opposing defenses. His leadership skills represent something missing from New York for years. The Jets have weapons on both sides of the scrimmage line. Only one factor many people outside of New York's coaching staff haven't considered until last night's subpar performance vs San Diego......

After years of running and improvising Green Bay's playbook... Favre now finds himself transformed back to rookie status. He's struggling to quickly learn New York's plays. Trying to form common ground with new players and their tendencies. Adjusting to just about everything which is now new. This is not an easy task for an old pro. He'll get it done over time. Fans and fellow players need to be patient. It's still very early which affords players and coaches time to adjust game plans.

Game planning is something which Jets coaches don't seem to have a cohesive handle on just yet. While they rush to teach Favre their system... something is missing. Simplicity.

Break down the playbook from game to game much in the same way San Francisco's Hall of Fame Coach Walsh used to do. Script 20 plays. Work on them all week until Favre can do it in his sleep. Then execute on game day.

All too often during Monday night's telecast, Favre was shown huddling with coaches on the sidelines looking over plays and defensive photo's. At this early stage of the game (and season), playcallers should stick to calling Favre's most confortable plays... right out of coaching 101. Don't complicate an already complicated situation by trying new plays or plays seldom run in practice. There's no point.

Favre will be fine once the Jets map out plans from game to game. New York is not grooming a quarterback of the future. Far from it. Favre's arrival was for one purpose. To win now. One thing is certain. Favre's proven he's only human... for now... until the Jets start reeling off consecutive victories.

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by Digger

The Houston Astros were on a roll. Winners in 14 of 15 contests, including 9 of 10 to begin September. Suddenly, Hurricane Ike took aim at Texas. Houston was to host a two game series vs division leading Chicago Cubs. Due to catastrophic conditions, Major League Baseball thought it was best to change venues and Astros players are still miffed.

At the center of this new storm is Commissioner Bud Selig's decision to send Houston to play in Milwaukee. Another in a series of never ending gaffe's by the former Milwaukee Brewers owner. It was understandable Houston needed to play in another city not to disrupt MLB's schedule. However, selecting Milwaukee to host a game featuring a Chicago team was pathetically unwise. Here's why.........

First off, Selig once owned the Brewers. Second, Milwaukee is a stone throw from Chicago. Most of the 23,441 who came to the game were Chicago fans rooting for their Cubs or Milwaukee fans rooting against Houston... hardly a home crowd environment for the host and displaced Astros. Third, making Houston travel so far north on short rest, if any, was not prudent when many other stadiums from college to pro were within striking distance of Houston. Fourth, by selecting Milwaukee baseball once again has put money & greed ahead of competitive fairness. Fifth, the Milwaukee Brewers and Houston Astros are two of three teams fighting for a Wild Card birth. Of course most nothern Milwaukee fans would be rooting against a southern team from Texas. Sixth, a major conflict of interest was put on display due to Selig's former Milwaukee connections. Seventh, baseball is screaming for a new impartial Commissioner... of course, everyone except the current owners.

Quotes reported by Sunday's Houston Chronicle (9/21/08), Astros players sounded off:

(Lance Berkman) "Major League Baseball has always valued the dollar more than they do the individual, the players and their families," Lance Berkman said, according to the Houston Chronicle on Sunday. "That's illustrated in things like playing through a lightning storm in Chicago [on Aug. 4].

"The most important thing is getting the game in so you don't lose the gate and you don't lose the revenue. That's A-No. 1. And then if in the course of that you can work it around where players aren't affected, that's a distant second. That's one reason why players try to exploit the system to the max because they know they're being treated the same way. That's a sad part of the game."

(Doug Brocail) "The thing is we had days at the end of the season that we could have played a single game plus a doubleheader if need be," Brocail said, according to the Chronicle. "And to make us go up and play at North Wrigley like we had to on no sleep, it was absolutely ridiculous. If it was New York or Boston, it would have been played at the end of the season.

"I truly believe that, and I think 99.9 percent of our teammates believe that. But no, we're the Houston Astros."

Players have every right to be upset. In responce to flack created by baseball's newest controversy, Selig released a full page ad for distribution in Sunday's Houston Chronicle. It reads:

(Selig) "In making the decision to play there, I recognized the advantage the Cubs would have in playing in such close proximity to Chicago and had there been a better option, I would have taken it," the ad read. "All of us involved in the decision regret the frustration the Astros and their fans felt about playing two games in Milwaukee.

"As Commissioner, my job is to balance many competing needs, while also finishing the season on time so the Postseason can begin as scheduled. Hurricane Ike disrupted many things, including the baseball schedule and I regret its impact on Astros fans. I have heard your complaints and I understand the impact this storm has had on the lives of Texans and Houston-area residents in particular.

"Sincerely,

"Allan H. (Bud) Selig

"Commissioner of Baseball"

Well, this is more hogwash coming out of the commissioners office. Selig readily admits the Cubs had a distinct advantage playing so close to their home city of Chicago. What he failed to admit, was his hometown Milwaukee team is also competing against Houston for advancement into this years National League Playoffs.

Hurricane Ike's tailwinds are still being felt. Houston no only lost to Chicago in Milwaukee... they were no hit by Carlos Zambrano. In the second game, Chicago starter Ted Lilly carried a no hitter into the 7th inning. Houston got smoked in both games. Their woes continued having lost 6 of 8 since being displaced by Ike. Astros players and fans have every right to be upset.

As a baseball fan, it's disturbing how MLB under Selig's leadership has been able to sidestep yearly scandals. Drugs, collusion, steroids, tainted records, gambling, questionable ownership transfers... Fortunately or unfortunately, this one has flown completely under the radar. Ike's impact took headlines front and center. Political climates have also peaked attracting much attraction. Sports reporters seem content focusing on the Mets & Brewers flounders, Yankee Stadium closing, Tampa Bay, football season etc... to paint any pictures.

Astros players shouldn't try to blame their season on this mini-drama. Games lost in April are just as important, if not more, than games lost in September. Heading into tonight's action, the 'Stros sit on the outside looking in... 4 games out with 7 to play. Odds are their end of season surge was too late as there's not enough time left hurdle two teams. One factor is in their favor. Both the Mets and Milwaukee are slumping. There's no room for error in Houston's season. Let go of Hurricane Ike distractions... play ball and let it go!

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by Digger

World renown Yankee Stadium, home to a record 26 World Series Championship teams, will host one final baseball game before closing for good and fading into history.

Yankee Stadium was born on April 18, 1923 and quickly became known as "The House that Ruth Built." The Stadium was uniquely constructed to hold 58,000 fans when most venues sat in the 30,000 range. The very first three-tiered ballpark debuted in New York. It was an instant success. Opening night drew a reported 74,000 fans with thousands being turned away. Upon conclusion of season one, the Yanks had won their first of a record 26 World Series Championships. Babe Ruth led the way transforming forever how the game of baseball would be played.

New York's grand cathedral quickly became the focal point for millions of dreams. So many professional players often spoke of how playing in Yankee Stadium, as a Yank or opponent, became a dream come true. The Stadium has always been electric. New York's fans are some of the most loyal in all of sports. On many a night, the house would shake as a result of fans enthusiastic cheers. This wouldn't be New York if fans didn't also shower underperforming players with harsh boing and jestures not fit for print.

Yankee Stadium was home to some of baseball's greatest players and most remembered games. Seventeen players had their uniform numbers retired. A short list of famous players/managers in Yanks history: Babe Ruth, Lou Gehrig, Mickey Mantle, Derek Jeter, Casey Stengle, Whitey Ford, Ron Guidry, Goose Gossage, Reggie Jackson, Thurman Munson, Yogi Berra, Phil Rizzuto, Roger Clemens, Bernie Williams, Mariano Rivera, Don Larson, Don Mattingly, Sparky Lyle, Billy Martin... and the list goes on.

Yankee Stadium was more than a baseball stadium. Memorable moments reached far beyond the diamond... often with historic results. An abbreviated list:
*Boxing Championships including the first ever televised. Jack Dempsey, Joe Lewis, Mohummad Ali, Rocky Graziano, Max Baer and Sugar Ray Robinson all had major bouts.
*College Football
*Pro Football. The Stadium was home to the New York Giants (1956-73). The 1958 Baltimore/NY Championship Game has been called "The Greatest Game Ever Played"
*Soccer (New York Cosmos)
*Religous Leaders - Cardinal's & Pope's
*Concerts
*Youth Baseball Camps
*High School Games
*Weddings

When the lights dim this evening, it will be the end of one Yankee Stadium era... and the beginning of the New Yankee Stadium era. After reading countless articles and blogs... there's one easy conclusion. Many spend too much time searching for the right words, unique phrases or personal experiences to celebrate the closing of historic Yankee Stadium. For each instance listed, another one is omitted. However, all contain a common bond which leads readers to conclude one simple fact. After the Yankee players take their final curtain call... only one word will best decribe events produced within the Stadium. "Memories."

Yankee Stadium was both a dream maker and memory creator. I believe every fan who ever attended Yankee Stadium walked away with vivid memories. At the very least, they were able to say "I once went to Yankee Stadium". Great bragging rights for all.

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by Digger

Save the date. NHL regular season begins October 4, 2008. If '08 is anything like '07, then we're going to witness some great hockey once again. Prague, Checkloslavakia will host the opener between Tampa Bay and New York Rangers at Noon (EST). Stanley Cup Finalist Pittsburgh plays Ottawa later that day in Stockholm, Sweden.

Time to pick 'em. NHL 2008-09 predictions:

EASTERN CONFERENCE

Atlantic Division
New Jersey Devils*
Philadelphia Flyers*
Pittsburgh Penguins*
New York Rangers
New York Islanders

Northeast Division
Montreal Canadiens*
Ottawa Senators*
Boston Bruins*
Buffalo Sabres
Toronto Maple Leafs

Southeast Division
Washington Capitals*
Florida Panthers*
Carolina Hurricanes
Tampa Bay Lightning
Atlanta Thrashers

WESTERN CONFERENCE

Central Division
Detroit Red Wings*
Chicago Blackhawks
Nashville Predators
St. Louis Blues
Columbus Blue Jackets

Northwest Division
Calgary Flames*
Minnesota Wild*
Colorado Avalanche*
Vancouver Canucks*
Edmonton Oilers

Pacific Division
San Jose Sharks*
Anaheim Ducks*
Dallas Stars*
Phoenix Coyotes
Los Angeles Kings

Stanley Cup: Detroit Red Wings over New Jersey Devils

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by Digger

NFL 2008 already has a couple of teams turning heads. A select few were taken for granted before the season began. Opposing coaches are beginning to take notice. Week 3 is up next... thought I'd try my hand at predicting the winners.

Kansas City (0-2) @ Atlanta (1-1): Birds were grounded by Bucs last week after opening the year taming Lions. KC hasn't figured out how to move the ball. Coach Edwards should be canned soon. He's not the answer for KC's proud franchise. Atlanta 33-13

Oakland (1-1) @ Buffalo (2-0): Buffalo proved they're to be rekoned with after disposing of Seattle and Jax. Oakland was humiliated opening weekend but rebounded vs lowly KC. Bills stampede, 27-17.

Tampa Bay (1-1) @ Chicago (1-1): On paper this is the battle of stiffling defenses. Both teams have surrendered 33 points. TB has scored 44, Chicago 46. Both offenses rely of field position supplied by defense. Brian Griese vs Kyle Orton. An offensive yawner unless running backs can break a few. Big play D will be the key. Da Bears win, 15-10.

Carolina (2-0) @ Minnesota (0-2): On paper this is a lock for the prowling Panthers vs an inept Vikings attack. Minnesota benched QB Jackson in what could be described as an admission this guy was the wrong pick to build a team around. Vet journeyman Gus Ferrotte will start. Panthers have won back to back thrillers (26-24 vs SD, 20-17 vs Chi). This could be the upset game of the week if Minnesota comes out rejuvinated. Carolina prevails, 27-23.

Miami (0-2) @ New England (2-0): Just about the only good news for Miami is playing in NE now instead of frigid December weather. Cassell will face various Miami defensive shifts. If he remains calm, this game will be a blowout. Miami doesn't have enough (any?) offensive weapons. Patriots fry fish, 33-6.

Cincinnati (0-2) @ New York Giants (2-0): Cincy remains in turmoil. Giants Eli Manning has arrived. His confidence level is at an all time high judging by his new found pocket presence. No longer throwing weak passes back peddling... now delivering strikes stepping up in the pocket. MVP performances in first two weeks. Eli will dissect secondary while Jacobs knocks off Bengal stripes. Super Bowl Champs conquer, 42-24.

Houston (0-1) @ Tennessee (2-0): Texans were displaced last weekend by Ike. They needed extra time to prepare for undefeated Titans. QB Collins leads the way while Madden Cover Jinx Young tries to find his nerves. Texans still searching for an offensive leader. You have to feel for fans stuck in tv markets forced to watch this boring game. A word to the wise, head to a sports bar to watch another game. Titans win, 24-7.

Arizona (2-0) @ Washington (1-1): Zona's QB Warner has been great piecing together back to back wins, 128.5 QB rating while completing 70.4% of pass attempts. Did I forget to mention this was vs SF & Miami? No matter. Washington looked confused at times with rookie Head Coach Zorn looking undecided on play calls in week one. Last week, they marched over Saints. This game should be a battle. Arizona by a hair, 31-27.

New Orleans (1-1) @ Denver (2-0): Saints running game hasn't surfaced yet. Thru two weeks, their single player game high has been 52 yards. 3rd and long is no way to play football. Denver's offense has been scoring at will.. 41 vs Oakland... 39 in a thriller vs SD. QB's might total 80+ passes. Broncos stampede, 44-30.

Detroit (0-2) @ San Francisco (1-1): Lions porous defense has been outscored 42-17 in two first halves. No chance to play with game plans when having to throw every down. Detroit QB's have chucked 74, running attack only 33 carries. Nothing changes vs San Fran's new found offense. Frank Gore will have a huge game. SF pours it on, 38-10.

St. Louis (0-2) @ Seattle (0-2): What's happened to both of these once upon a time high octane teams? St. Louis has 16 points... 16! Yikes. 3 of 24 on 3rd downs kills drives. The Rams formerly owned an impressive attack. Bulger has been atrocious, bad throws, horrible reads. For as bad as St. Louis' offense has played... their defense has been worse. Perhaps the NFL's most hapless group heading into week three. This is a team confused on both sides of the line. As for Seattle, Hasselbacks 48.5 QB rating can't be sitting well with Coach Holmgren (nor is -4 turnover differential). Julius Jones is Seattle's featured back (his first as a starter). He had a big week two but it wasn't enough. Seattle rebounds, Rams struggles continue... 36-14.

Cleveland (0-2) @ Baltimore (1-0): Ravens defense still dominates and will again if Cleveland's offense doesn't find its' stride this weekend. Browns haven't scored a td since 12:43 of quarter two in week one. Head Coach Romeo Crennel has screwed up as many times thru two games as most do in an entire season. Ravens rookie QB Flacco is a work in progress. He's poised in the pocket but will stumble at times vs various defensive schemes. Ravens survive, 23-20.

Jacksonville (0-2) @ Indianapolis (1-1): Jags have dropped two close contests. Their running game hasn't found it's footing. Now they take on a banged up Colts team who lucked out in a come from behind win vs Minnesota last weekend. Manning's knee looks wobbly. All Pro Safety Sanders is out for at least a month. Lost their DT to a pot bust. Things have been better for Coach Dungy. This one will be a battle. Jags running game wakes up, 28-24.

Pittsburgh (2-0) @ Philadelphia (1-1): This is my #2 must watch game of the week pick. Philly's offense is soaring scoring 75 in two games (38 vs StL, 37 @ Dallas). Westbrook already has 5 touchdowns & McNabb looks better than ever. On D, they bring blitzes every down trying to force mistakes. Pittsburgh has played rugged football. They'll either need to create turnovers on D or slug it out on the scoreboard. 80 degree weather might wear down defenses. Philly keeps scoring, 33-17.

Dallas (2-0) @ Green Bay (2-0): This is the #1 must watch game of week three. As usual, the Cowboys have opened the season on fire. Romo and Barber have combined for 8 td's. T.O. already with 3. This team has too many weapons. Defense looked weak on most series vs Philly but came thru when the game was on the line. Green Bay is off to the races behind first year starting QB Aaron Rodgers. Rodgers replaced legendary Brett Favre and has been outstanding leading the Pack offense (117.8 QB rating, 4 TD, 70% completions). Dallas represents test #1 for Rodgers after steamrolling weaker Minnesota and Detroit. Rodgers is ready to show he belongs... throws for 350+ yards. Pack Attack 41, Cowboys 37.

New York Jets (1-1) @ San Diego (0-2): J-E-T-S... JETS, JETS, JETS fans were chanting all week anticipating a victory vs hated arch division rival New England. NE QB Brady was declared out for the year. Favre is now a Jet. According to NY writer's and fans this combination means a trip to the playoffs. Favre was to be the savior. He didn't get it done vs New England as the offense sputtered. San Diego is banged up on both sides of the ball. It's already a season of hard knocks for San Diego. Losers as time expired in week 1 vs Carolina 26-24. Week 2 was a controversial 39-38 last minute defeat in Denver. Injuries might alter visions of destiny quickly should they fall to 0-3... which they will. Favre wins his Jets Monday Night Football debut, 31-23.

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by Digger

No New York Mets fan will forget last years historic September collapse. Sitting comfortably with a seven game lead over second place Phillies with seventeen games remaining. Then the team filled with magical finishes and slogans.... imploded.... choked... self destructed... finishing out of playoff contention. No one could save them while they gave away game after game.

2008 was to be a new season. A retooled pitching rotation bolstered by Santana. Manager Willie Randolph (fired) was to be primed and matured after events of past two seasons. The Mets recent 3 1/2 game lead over Philadelphia has evaporated (current standings).

All season, New York sports commentators have spoken of last years debacle before or after bashing the lifeless Yankees. Well, ghosts of September '07 seem to be back again in '08. Tonight's lifeless performance against 93 loss Washington sets off a serious warning light. A golden opportunity to maintain an importaint two game spread in the loss column was lost. Philly can smell blood and the Mets are leaving a trail. Whether or not the Mets snap out of it and start making their own breaks... and wins is anyone's guess.

Manager Jerry Manuel has his hands full at the moment trying to keep players fresh and talks of last year to a minimum. There's no escape right now. One of Randolph's biggest mistakes last year was showing how mopy he was in front of players and media. He looked like he just came from a funeral... offering no inspiration to his players. Manuel already admitted during an interview he has memories of '07 (... and it's up to players to correct themselves). Not very motivational Jerry.

The Mets of 2008 were to have matured after last year. Instead, it's just 2007 stuck in 2008 minds. Wright was an MVP candidate heading into last September only to completely fall apart. This year, Delgado had suddenly emerged as MVP material after coming alive hitting .295, slugging .610 after the All Star break. It's tough for him to be clutch now when there's nobody to drive in. Table setters have been silent.

Where's the Magic? The Mets have had many slogans over the years. Amazin Mets. You Gotta Believe. The Magic is Back. Mets Magic. Last year ended with Tragic Magic? Historically, Mets teams have been the chasers usually ending with dramatic late season heroics. Times have changed.

Let's see what kind of Magic these Mets can perform, if any. They're up against two slumping teams, Washington and Atlanta. These are all must wins. They close out the year at Shea vs NL's #1 Chicago (4 games) followed by a tough Marlins club.

These guys have been one game on, two off. They need to find a way to relax. Just go out and play ball. Have fun. Until old memories are shaken loose, this team is in for a rough ride. Have a closed door session. Set team curfews. Take a day off from batting practice. Do something different. Worst of all, Mets players keep this up they can play themselves out of the Wild Card hunt too.

Slumping Milwaukee pushed their panic button by firing Manager Yost this afternoon. Milwaukee had lost 11 of 14. Firing a manager is one way to wake up the dead. Mets responded after Willie was dumped, or so it seemed. Toronto with Cito at the helm. Sveum takes over the Brew Crew.

Yankee Stadium and Shea Stadium are only days away from hosting their final baseball games ever. Both teams were expected to challenge for this years World Series. Instead, they could be watching from the sidelines.

Baseball is a funny game afterall.

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by Digger

Beautiful bright sunny skies. Americans rushing to work. Professional athletes rejoicing or remorsing in their seasons. Children attending school. The morning of September 11, 2001 seemed like any other normal day... until...

War was officially declared on the United States of America.

New Yorkers and the world was stunned in horror when two hijacked jumbo jets flew directly into the World Trade Center Towers within minutes of each other. At 8:46 a.m. American Airlines Flight 11 rammed into the North Tower. A stunned world watched in disbelief. Most not realizing this was an act of war.

9:03 a.m. The second hijacked plane, United Airlines Flight 175, roared at full speed over downtown Manhattan before striking the South Tower. It was then realized this was no accident. Our great nation was under attack. Both Towers faultered under duress from excessive damage and heat leading to their collapse.

9:37 a.m. As a stunned world watched news reports from New York City, a third hijacked plane attacked. American Airlines Flight 77 crashed into the Pentagon in Arlington County, Virginia causing severe damage and further loss of life.

United Airlines Flight 93 was the fourth plane hijacked and was reported to have targeted either our White House or United States Capital. United 93 passengers phoned friends and relatives after being hijacked. Some were informed of what happened in New York and DC area. Many of the heroic passengers valiently fought for their lives... and for the lives of our citizens on the ground. They counter attacked the hijackers. Passenger Todd Beamer was heard telling other passengers "Let's Roll" as they readied to counter attack. As a result, United 93 passengers successfully thwarted the hijackers plans before reaching their intended target.

Air traffic controllers grounded all remaining in air flights. Landing them at closest airports to avoid further attacks/hijackings. No flights were allowed into U.S. airspace and none were allowed to leave.

It was soon learned who declared war. A fundamentalist terror network called Al-Qaeda.

Nearly 3,000 lives were taken on September 11, 2001. Thousands more lives of family members were changed forever. Most American's remember in exact detail where they were on this date. Never to forget. Our world changed forever.

I can remember receiving an early morning call from my close friend in Dallas. "Can you believe it?" he asked. I had no idea what he was talking about until being told to turn on CNN. I watched the smoke pouring out of the North Tower in disbelief. Just then, American 175 hit and I knew we were at war. This was the 2nd attack on WTC (1993).

For a brief while, American's daily lives were placed on hold. There was a sense of unity and patriotism growing to levels not felt since Ronald Reagan was our President. Even the politicians put aside their bickering long enough to present a united front.

My thoughts were consumed with prayers for those trapped in the buildings hoping they could find a successful escape. Hoping none of my friends, family members or former business associates fell victims in this tragedy. Thoughts remembering past visits from meetings to social events within the Towers... and watching them under construction as a child in the 70's.

At the time, Major League Baseball was embarking on its' annual pennant races. Games were put off until September 17. New York teams (Yankees & Mets) both added New York Police and Fire Department logo's to the front of ballcaps in recognition of the heroic men and women who perished on 9/11 trying to rescue those trapped inside the burning Towers. Stadiums across our great nation began playing God Bless America during the 7th inning stretch. Local players were lending a helping hand with cleanup crews and surviving family members.

When baseball finally returned in the New York area (Sept 21 @ Shea)... the game helped to distract fans from what had taken place only days earlier. It was also a sign of strength to show the world our country was going to bounce back. We will not go quietly into the night!

New York baseball fans will never forget the magical moments witnessed at Yankee Stadium during the 2001 World Series. The Yankees had returned from Arizona trailing the Diamondbacks two games to zero. Moral was tepid. Some fans were jittery making their way to the Stadium. New York City was on high security alert. Bomb sniffing dogs had been summoned to search every inch before fans began arriving. Fans were frisked before being allowed into Yankee Stadium. Police presence was felt throughout the Stadium and by viewers tuning in around the world.

The Yankees then played three consecutive thrilling World Series games which electrified New Yorkers. Three straight one run victories. The final two were come from behind last at bat wins. The Yankees trailed by two runs entering the ninth inning in Games 4 & 5. Both times they tied it up and sent it to extra innings. In Game 4, the first ever November World Series game, Tino Martinez crushed a two out home run to tie the game and Derek Jeter hit a two out game winning walk off home run. Game 5 magic returned as Scott Brosius stepped into the hero circle with a two out two run 9th inning homer to tie it up. Soriano delivered Chuck Knoblauch with a game winning single in the 12th.

Baseball was back. New York was alive. The Yankees held a 3 games to 2 lead heading back to Arizona. They eventually lost the Series in 7 games as Arizona pulled off some 9th inning magic of their own against closer Mariano Rivera. All was not lost. America was back on its' feet. Baseball helped settle things down when thousands of hearts were still heavy and dealing with losses from September 11th. Games 3,4 & 5 went a long way to helping normalcy return to New Yorkers lives.

September 11, 2001 should never be forgotten. America's guard should always be up. We will prevail in the war declaration brought to our shores. We will never go silently into the night.

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by Digger

NL MVP 2008 ballot tallies will have many first place vote recipients. 18 games remain and a hot finish could separate one player from the rest when votes are cast. Here's a short list of MVP calibur performances.

Early on Chipper Jones scortched foes batting over .400. Chipper's odds have been reduced due to Atlanta falling out of contention and recent lost time due to injury. Who knows? A hot September could thrust him back into the limelight.

Lance Berkman has made pitchers pay for their mistakes (.328, 44 2B, 27 HR). Houston is making a late season run, winners in 9 of 10, with Berkman leading the charge. NL Central supplies hitter friendly parks and Berkman has taken full advantage during his career.

Albert Pujols has been steady all year with timely hits while sending hurlers to early showers. He's one of the games all time greatest hitters. He's been producing big time numbers all year playing with an elbow requiring surgery this off-season. NL batting leader (.361), ranks in top ten of most major hitting categories, on pace for 100+ RBI for his 8th consecutive season. Most importantly delivering timely hits to keep St Louis in playoff contention. A hot September plus playoff birth could secure the trophy for Pujols.

Matt Holliday (.326, 24 HR) will probably get passed over since Colorado hasn't really challenged in '08 after a miraculous '07 romp to NL Championship.

David Wright has produced many big time hits for the Mets. He's hoping to avoid another September meltdown... it's not working (2 for 14). He's currently in super hot Delgado's shadow so pressure should be off of him. Mets players must still have ghosts of '07 on their minds.

Ryan Braun (.301, 34 HR, 96 RBI) crushes baseballs.... when he hits them. This kid has all the tools to become on of baseball's best for years to come. The only knock against him is K/BB ratio. Braun wiffs way too much and often times in key situations with runners in scoring position. A .294 RISP average is tarnished by 36 K's (1 in 3.97 AB's). Milwaukee is battling Chicago for NL Central honors. If Braun shines... start counting first place votes.

Ryan Ludwig exploded on the scene (.299 BA, 32 HR, 99 RBI .577 SLG). St Louis was picked by most to finish deep in their division. Ludwig's play has been a big part of a successful Cardinals season. Most think of Pujols heroics.. this kid will probably get many deserved votes. Doubtful any will have a 1 attached to it.

Chase Utley was lighting up scoreboards and pacing Philadelphia's potent attack for much of '08. He suddenly lost his stroke and the Phils started sliding. His numbers were superb before the All Star break (25 HR, .291). Post AS break (.290, 6 HR). Utley's power numbers have been down as he continues to pull off of pitches. He fell into a trap of trying to hit everything out of the park... and isn't. Suddenly popping out with RISP and not supplying timely hits. If his lost power stroke returns and can lead Philadelphia to an NL East title... he might take home trophy #2 in three years.

Red hot and super clutch Mets 1B Carlos Delgado (31 HR, 96 RBI) is the toast of the town in New York after clutch hit after clutch hit helps promote the Mets from 3rd to 1st. April and May probably had Carlos looking for Bobby Bonilla's old pair of Shea earplugs. He was awful and looked so out of synch many started believing Carlos' career had ended before our eyes. Time after time he was off balance, popping up or striking out in key moments game after game. Delgado has now found Mets Magic. Pulling off a complete turnaround, no key situation slips past his bat. He's producing monsterous games with tape measure blasts over the wall. Seven multi-homer games including his last two. 5 September homers (all wins). When the game is on the line, Delgado has shined. He went from on of NL's most boo'd players to a New York hero.

Pujols has been the steadiest all year. Utley can win if he leads Philly to NL East title. The trophy will belong to Delgado is he keeps surging. He's in such a zone right now I don't picture it ending anytime soon. Delgado to keep on crushing 450+ blasts to win MVP in one of closest votes ever.

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by Digger

One hit midway thru Sunday's opening quarter at Gillette Stadium dramatically diminished New England's 2008 playoff chances. NFL MVP Tom Brady's season ended quicker than it began after absorbing a knee jarring hit by Kansas City Safety Bernard Pollard.

Suddenly, AFC East football is up for grabs for the first time since Brady took over as Patriots signal caller. New England has a decision to make. Go out and find an established QB to guide their ship or rely on untested backup Matt Cassell? Decisions, decisions. All East division rivals bulked up this off-season. New York Jets playoff pursuit received a much needed jolt by signing legendary QB Brett Favre. Buffalo continues to mature and opened up with a convincing 34-10 romp over Seattle. Even last years 1-15 losers Miami has reason to believe.

It's hard to feel bad for New England as a team. Especially on the heels of a 2007 Spygate scandal. Injuries happen every year on every level from Pee Wee's thru NFL, it's part of the game. It's a safe bet not many players enjoy watching gridiron greats get sidelined. Brady has ammassed a tremendous career resume highlighted by 2007 perfect 16-0 regular season (threw 50 touchdown passes).

Spygate left many questioning exactly how much it factored into Super Bowl Championship seasons. This is something we'll never know. Don't forget, much evidence handed over to the NFL was burned leaving many to wonder just how deep their video taping/spying ventured (why did NFL destroy tapes?).

Injuries sometimes open up doors for players trying to earn their stripes. Some bomb, some shine. Backup Cassell struggled during the pre-season. He basked in sunlight yesterday leading the Patriots to an opening day victory. He's blessed with a very gifted supporting crew of Maroney, Welker & Moss. He'll be coached by some of the games better sideline walkers. Every opportunity will be given to Cassell to lead this team. Does he have the tools to be a bonified starting NFL QB?

Brady's injury extends well beyond New England. Thousands of fantasy football players targeted Brady as their big time point setting QB. Oops! The impact of losing Brady from fantasy teams is probably much greater than in New England. Coach Belichick has a reputation of being one of the best game planners. Now comes his true test... compensating for his downed field general. Now, how will fantasy owners fill their new team void?

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by Digger

Thousands of NFL fans are busy finalizing fantasy draft lists and rosters. The NFL season officially begins tomorrow (9/4/08) when New York's Super Bowl Champion Giants host Washington. Here's a brief list of my projected '08 top performers for draftees to ponder.

Quarterbacks
Tony Romo (Dallas)
Drew Brees (New Orleans)
Tom Brady (New England)
Peyton Manning (Indianapolis)
Eli Manning (New York)

Running Backs
LaDanian Tomlinson (San Diego)
Adrian Peterson (Minnesota)
Marion Barber (Dallas)
Brian Westbrook (Philadelphia)
Brandon Jacobs (New York)

Wide Receivers
Terrell Owns (Dallas)
Randy Moss (New England)
Larry Fitzgerald (Arizona)
Marques Colston (New Orleans)
Reggie Wayne (Indianapolis)

Tight Ends
Jason Witten (Dallas)
Tony Gonzalez (Kansas City)
Antonio Gates (San Diego)
Kellen Winslow (Cleveland)
Dallas Clark (Indianapolis)

Kickers
Nick Folk (Dallas)
Josh Brown (Seattle)
Mike Nugent (New York)
Adam Vinatieri (Indianapolis)
Nate Kaeding (San Diego)

Defense / Special Teams
Seattle
Chicago
Pittsburgh
Tampa Bay
Carolina

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by Digger

NL pitchers have been putting on quite a display in '08. Official voters will have plenty to contemplate when filling out ballots at seasons end. Arizona's Brandon Webb appeared as odds on favorite for most of the year. Recent trade deadline deals, emergence of young pitchers, and a wide open September pennant race will all factor into who walks away with NL Cy Young hardware.

The field:
Brandon Webb (Arizona, 19-6, 3.19). Webb has dominated NL West opponents winning 9 of 11 decisions. He's the main reason Arizona has held onto first place this year. The only radar screen blip has been back to back defeats while trying for his first ever 20 win season. It is the pressure of 20? Or, is his arm tiring? I'm sure Diamondback coaches will be keeping a careful eye after pitching 7 or more innings in 6 of his last 7 starts before suffering two straight blowout losses. Otherwise, this has been a solid Cy Young campaign. Webb began the year on fire winning nine straight. He's been the model of efficiency and consistency evidenced by season high single game pitch total of 113 (shutout). Throwing strikes and making hitters miss is what it's all about. He's only pitched less than 6 innings in 5 of 29 starts while earning decisions in 25. How he performs in the pennant race will decide his fate.

CC Sabathia (9-0, 1.43). Milwaukee went out and made headlines with a trading deadline deal acquiring 2007 AL Cy Young winner CC. He struggled early on in Cleveland but has been baseball's best since becoming a Brewer. He's owned NL hitters striking out 85 in 88 innings, 6 of 9 complete games highlighted by 3 shutouts. His presence makes Milwaukee a World Series contender while his performances have been of MVP calibur. Do these stellar starts garner recognition by sportswriters for Cy Young when considering his abbreviated NL status? If he wins out the rest of the way... or wins all but one decision then I think he'll be more than deserving. This is reminiscent of 1984 when Rick Sutcliffe went 16-1 (unanimous NL Cy Young winner) leading the Cubs into post season play. Sabathia is in the zone.

Edinson Volquez (Cincinnati, 16-5, 3.04). Cincy's young star completely baffled NL hitters in April (4-0, 1.23) and May (3-1, 1.63). Hitters couldn't figure him out (88 K's in 68 April/May innings). Has yet to have a losing month while pitching for a subpar team. He's faces a tough list of nominee's. It'll be hard to over look his season if he surpasses 20 wins. Competitive field will have many receiving first place votes.

Todd Lincecum (15-3, 2.43). I remember laughing early on after learning of a manager in one of my fantasy leagues trading Soriano for Lincecum. Well, Soriano got hurt and 2nd year newcomer Lincecum has been nothing less than sensational on the mound for floundering San Francisco. He's wiffed 210 in 185 frames. This kid has surpassed the hype attributed to his quick rise to stardom. San Fran's future is bright anchored by Lincecum's arm. He'll get plenty of votes in this years wide open arms race. Will pitching for a losing team hurt his chances?

Ryan Dempster (15-5, 2.95) has been Chicago's unsung hero on a team full of stars. Media spotlights always shine on the likes of Zambrano, Soto, Soriano, Wood, Lee and Marmol. Dempster has done his part with 15 victories and holding NLers to a paultry .218 average. He's won 7 of 8 decisions vs playoff contenders (3-0 vs rival Milwaukee). 20 wins is not out of reach. I think he's the longshot who probably won't get many, if any, first place votes.

This grouping is so close votes probably won't be finalized until after game 162. If Sabathia wins out then he'd get my vote with no questions asked especially if Milwaukee beat out Chicago for the division crown and home field advantage. Should CC prove he's only human down the stretch and Webb bounces back to form, then he's next in line. It's going to be another wild September in all three NL divisions.

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by Digger

As the 2008 baseball season enters its' final month, the American League arms race has been narrowed to three. Cliff Lee, Roy Halladay and Francisco Rodriguez are having exceptional years on the mound. They're front runners for this seasons AL Cy Young Award.

Cliff Lee's (19-2, 2.43) return to prominence has been a fun story to follow. Heading into spring training Lee was viewed as a long shot to make Cleveland's opening day roster. Arm injuries (5-8, 6.29 in '07) seemed to curtail a once promising career (18-5, 3.97 in '05). He was not expected to be much of a factor pitching behind CC Sabathia, Jake Westbrook, Fausto Carmona and Paul Byrd. Lee put all the naysayers to shame. His tough work ethic helped rebuild a weakened pitching arm and sheer determination did the rest. He's sporting an AL best 19 victories and league low 2.43 ERA while pitching for an Indians team which never lived up to their expected potential this year. Nonetheless, Lee's been Clevelands stopper. He hasn't lost a decision since July 6th and allowed no more than 2 earned runs in 20 of 26 games. Cliff has proven staying ahead of hitters has its' advantages (only 27 walks, 8 HR in 185.1 innings).

Toronto Blue Jays ace Roy Halladay (17-9, 2.69) has kept hitters off balance most of the year. Halladay is no stranger to the Cy Young race having won back in 2003 (22-7, 3.25... 3rd in '06, 5th in '07). His stuff has been nasty all season long stiffling opponents bats. Eight complete games leads all pitchers and sports a winning record in every month after April. Six victories have been posted against New York and Boston, arch division rivals. Halladay is probably on the outside looking in as of now. His stock will rise if Lee hits a bump in the road.

Los Angeles Angels closer extraordinaire Francisco Rodriguez (2-2, 2.47, 53 Saves) is on the verge of shattering MLB's All Time Saves Record held by Bobby Thigpen (57). August was his only month in '08 without double digit save totals. The Angels know leads are safe after 8 innings when FRod takes the ball. He knows how to make major league hitters look like little leaguers (65 strikeouts in 57 innings). His stuff is flat out nasty. Near 100 mph fastball coupled with a knee buckling breaking ball makes this guy nearly untouchable. Expect Halos Mgr Scioscia to give Rodriguez every shot to become baseball's first ever 60 save man.

Great debates take place this time of year. Should relievers be considered for Cy Young or MVP Awards? Should starting pitchers be considered MVP's when their teams aren't contending? What determines a most valuable player? Best stats or most wins? These dicussions garner much intensity year after year.

Rodriguez must be considered the front runner for '08 Cy Young. He's on the verge of unchartered territory (60 saves) while being the games most dominant hurler. Anything can still happen but it'll take a lot to knock this guy off of his perch as odds on favorite. Halladay and Lee have been great, FRod has been the best. Honorable mention and recognition is given to Mike Mussina (16-7, 3.41) and Daisuke Matsuzaka (16-2, 2.82).