Check Out "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for a little wheeling and dealing before baseball's trading deadline expires July 31. Philadelphia just completed a deal for Houston Astros ace Roy Oswalt. Imagine how their rotation could have looked if Lee wasn't traded? Halladay, Lee, Hamels & Oswalt. Four #1 starters. Oswalt is a superb addition. Philadelphia is riding a 5 game win streak. Oswalt should be able to help Philly retake first place from Atlanta. It'll be a dogfight to the finish.

A few teams have surprised baseball handicappers. Texas is very strong. Adding Lee goes a long way towards playoff legitimacy. Cincinnati and St. Louis figure to go toe to toe right down to the wire. San Diego's pitching keeps steaming along. San Francisco finds themselves back in the West race after fading. Ozzie's White Sox are finally creating positive headlines. Twins have been banged up all year long. They keep finding ways to win as good teams usually do.

There's an epic division battle shaping up in AL East. Yankees vs Rays while the Red Sox lurk ever so close. Yanks lineup is second to none. Relievers has been iffy. Tampa plays big. Starting pitchers and timely hitting earn the Rays baseball's second best record.

Which teams will be active buyers? Sellers? MLB non waiver trading deadline ends midnight Sunday. Yanks need relievers. Rays could use a heavy bat. If they were smart then Milwaukee's Fielder should be on their radar. I'm sure he's not but talk about a perfect fit. Giants, Padres, Dodgers need bats. Red Sox could use a shot in the arm up the middle. Tigers need help as key players are dropping like flies. They'll have a tough time finding a good deal. It's just a case of bad luck in Detroit.

Here's how I see the pennant race shaking out (as of now).

AL
EAST Yanks, Rays, Sox, Jays, O's.
CENTRAL Sox, Twins, Tigers, Royals, Indians.
WEST Rangers, Angels, A's, Mariners.

NL
EAST Phils, Braves, Mets, Marlins, Nats.
CENTRAL Reds, Cards, Cubs, Brewers, Pirates, Astros.
WEST Padres, Giants, Dodgers, Rockies, DBacks.

WILD CARD: AL Rays, NL Giants.

WORLD SERIES: Phils over Yanks 4-1.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

How will the West be won in 2010? Easy. San Diego (13-3) will run away with the division crown again. Denver had high hopes until reality set in. They're not playoff calibur. Nor is Kansas City and Oakland. KC is rebuilding. Oakland continues to be in a state of confusion.

1) San Diego Chargers S.D. has big shoes to fill. For the first time since 2001 they'll be without RB LaDanian Tomlinson. How does a team replace over 16,000 total yards and 153 touchdowns? Carefully. Running attack will be tested early and often placing more pressure on QB Phillip Rivers to deliver. Future RB hopes focus on 1st rounder Ryan Matthews (Fresno State). A few new faces in place or competing for roster spots. Chargers should have no trouble repeating in NFL's weakest division. Can these guys step up and win playoff games? That's another story.

2) Denver Broncos 2009 was a tale of two seasons. They stampeded out of the gate to 6-0 glory only to stumble losing 6 of final 8. Defense was solid for 1st six, miserable the rest of the way. Offense never found fluidity. Running game was inefficient. Passing game suffered outside of Brandon Marshall. Injuries piled up. Drafting was focused on offense. Demaryius Thomas (Georgia Tech) is an impact WR who will pay immediate dividends stretching opposing defenses. No one knows for sure if QB Tim Tebow can handle NFL pressure. We'll soon find out in training camp. Many question marks surrounding Denver. Probably just another .500 season on the way? Dropping to 3rd if they're not careful.

3) Kansas City Chiefs Chiefs rebuilding in a hurry. Solid pieces in place on both sides of line. Draft secured hard nosed safety Eric Berry from Tennessee regarded as a gamer with great instincts. The only way to go is up after a harsh 4-12 '09. KC has a few years to go but don't be surprised at all if these guys finish in 2nd place.

4) Oakland Raiders Six games in single digits says all one needs to know about how far this team has fallen. Year after year of great draft position has produced very little to speak of except for monumental busts. JaMarcus Russell was the NFL's #1 draft pick in 2007. An abomination on and off the field. He's gone. Replaced by another inefficient QB, Jason Campbell. This team has self destructed from top (Al Davis) to bottom. No help in sight. Raider Nation will not be happy campers in 2010.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

AFC Conference Champion Indianapolis Colts (14-2) completely dominated South division rivals (6-0). Houston and Tennessee had big second half surges for respectability. Jacksonville could be seeking relocation if season ticket sales continue declining. The Colts remain South's team to beat. Titans and Texans aim to challenge for wild card.

1) Indianapolis Colts I'll be the first to admit not thinking Indy would have a cake walk season. They could easily have gone 16-0 if it wasn't for a coaching decision to bench starters midway through game 15. Terrible, terrible decision. A perfect season and momentum was theirs for the taking. 2010 should produce another division title. Manning returns with a team greatly strengthened on draft day. Excellent selections addressing team needs: defense. Will we be treated to another New Orleans vs Indianapolis Super Bowl?

2) Tennessee Titans They were the terrible Titans during first six games of 2009 (0-6) before Vince Young took over in game seven. He resurrected the Titans season and his own career finishing the year 8-2. Tremendous coaching staff knows full well how to get every ounce from players. Sensational ground attack opens up passing game. Defense was taxed early but settled down once offense started chewing up the clock. If they're able to beat Indy at least once then Titans will be right in the thick of a playoff race.

3) Houston Texans Houston fans can only wonder what could have been in '09 if the running game showed up? These guys played tight games all year long. Things were looking up when they reached 5-3 right before dropping 4 in a row effectively knocking them out of playoff contention. Strong draft netted a highly ranked gamer in DB Kareem Jackson (Alabama). 2nd rounder Ben Tate (RB, Auburn) has a bright future if he can handle NFL speed. Texans are a good team getting better season after season. 2010 is a key year.

4) Jacksonville Jaguars Vic Ketchman of Jaguars.com calls this the "save the whale" juncture in team history. Jacksonville's fan base is diminishing rapidly. If season ticket sales don't pick up dramatically then Jags brass will seek relocation. Team play and conduct has not been inspiring in recent years. Draft grabbed solid defenders. This is a team in a little turmoil surrounding coach Del Rio and QB situation. Division rivals getting stronger. Jags lack of ticket sales straining management ability to secure core players to long term deals. Get ready for local blackouts in Jacksonville. Good news as Gators, Seminoles, Dolphins and Bucs are on local tv.

Check out "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

ESPN's "Outside the Lines" recently reviewed and revealed health department inspection reports from all 107 stadiums used by the MLB, NBA, NHL, and NFL. You're not going to like the results unless you enjoy eating rat feces, mold, cockroaches or spoiled (contaminated) food. Yes, the report is that bad.

Now we know why vendors charge $10.00 per beer and $7.50 for hot dogs. Because, there's a little something extra with each and every meal. Perhaps coupons for doctor's visits are in order?

Here's my question. Had these vendors been restaurants wouldn't local Departments of Health shut them down immediately for being a threat to the public? My next question is why only one inspection per year when nearly every major sporting facility has multiple violations?

Commissioners of all sports need to set strict guidelines of vendor requirements. Guess what public? Food prices will necessarily skyrocket. Sobeit. You're already being suckered at the rate of $7.50 for contaminated hot dogs. How about $8.50 for clean ones? Sounds better, doesn't it? Most vendors act independently of teams meaning it's their responsibility, not team or stadium owners, to follow proper guidelines. This needs to change nationwide. It isn't unreasonable to "demand" vendors be responsible enough to ensure proper safeguards and cleanliness. There should also be mandatory bi-weekly or monthly inspections conducted by individual stadiums. So many multi-million dollar beautiful new ballparks have been built at taxpayer expense creating thousands of new jobs and revenue streams. How about looking out for the general public?

How many of you witness food vendors with disgusting habits from wiping noses, coughing or sneezing into their hands right before serving you? How about those 100 degree summer days when we're treated to the fantastic event of ordering food from an over heated attendant dripping filthy sweat on your food as they handle it with money dirtied hands? Delicious thoughts. By the way, servers cleanliness wasn't factored into the report.

Great job by ESPN on reporting. Will anyone act to right an obvious wrong?

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFC North was anything but normal last year. It's up for grabs in 2010. Once again Pittsburgh begins with a big question mark. This time it surrounds problem plagued QB Ben Roethlisberger and how Pittsburgh will survive his suspension. Was Cincinnati's '09 success for real? Can they repeat as North champs? Baltimore beefed up in a big way and now has the tools to become a major NFL force. Cleveland's Eric Mangini wasn't as effective as team owners would have liked in '09. He could be the first coach firing of 2010.

AFC NORTH

1) Baltimore Ravens Not many roster spots are safe. If Coach Harbaugh plays his cards correctly then training camp will be very spirited as players fight to make Baltimore's opening day roster. Roster weaknesses have been addressed. Ravens offense has an air of intrigue with a sound running game and, for the first time in a long while, gifted game breaking wide receivers. Coupled with one of NFL's stingiest defenses means Baltimore will be tough to beat. I don't see them losing often as they run away with the North. 9-7 will jump to no less than 11-5. Baltimore Ravens are ready.

2) Cincinnati Bengals Taking advantage of others misfortunes led to Cincinnati winning their first division title since 1990. Six games were won by 7 points or less. Bengals fans shouldn't expect more of the same in '10. Management made a monumental mistake with their first draft pick taking a TE. Rebounded nicely in 2nd (Carlos Dunlap, DE, Florida) and 3rd rounds (Jordan Shipley, WR, Texas). Offense didn't click last year but it was clutch when games were on the line. A handful of WR's will battle for a job in preseason. Benson carried the load last year and Bengals hope there's plenty left in his tank. Defense ranked in top 10 of most major categories. Expectations will be high. Reality is closer to 8-8 or 7-9. Bengals had more luck than skill in '09.

3) Pittsburgh Steelers Roethlisberger's antics earned him a 6 week NFL suspension. Champions suck it up when leaders fall. Pittsburgh's defense will have to set up great field position for a weak offense. Offensive coordinators must devise a plan to score with limited talent. Steelers do not have an answer at QB. All offensive lineman need to put up career years creating lanes for a weak running game under attack from opposing defenses keying on the run. Questions have already surfaced questioning coach Tomlin's commitment to keeping this squad under control. False questions for a head coach one season removed from winning the Super Bowl. Nonetheless, 2010 can easily turn ugly early and often.

4) Cleveland Browns Browns fans suffered through a miserable display in '09. Cleveland was 1-11 after 12 games before giving fans a reason for optimism in 2010 by winning their final 4. False hope considering combined records for 3 of those teams were 16-32. Mangini is not the right coach for a rebuilding team even though he has a vote of confidence from front office officials. Another dismal beginning will be Mangini's last stint as NFL head coach. This team completely blew their draft. Huge question marks at nearly every position beginning with opening day QB, RB, WR. Browns should enjoy their current 0-0 record. At least they're tied for 1st.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Indianapolis Colts almost pulled off a perfect season last year until their head coach decided to bench (rest) most starting players. They were 14-0 and leading the Jets at halftime of game 15. Starters were benched after halftime and watched in frustration as subs lost (team finished 14-2). Indy was out played in Super Bowl XLIV and seeks revenge in 2010. Plenty of off season moves by many AFC teams addressing various needs. Colts and Chargers appear to remain top 2 winning teams. Houston, Jets, Dolphins, Ravens & Chiefs on the rise. AFC play will be tough as any season in recent memory.

AFC East will be a dogfight. Brady will try resurrecting New England to dynasty status. The Jets were busy solidifying their roster after a tremendous '09 performance. Did they add talent or locker room headaches? Miami's players and front office brass believe they're the team to beat in the East? They may be right. Buffalo, well, every division needs a cellar dweller.

AFC East

1) New York Jets Here's an intriguing team. Head Coach Ryan's Jets defense established themselves as one of NFL's top units and most feared. The do just about everything right. Fast, smart and very hard hitting. Jets defense was reason #1 this group qualified for post-season play. Defense was responsible for setting up rookie Sanchez' offense with great field position most of the year. Key off season moves or did NY over spend on older players and trouble makers? LaDainian Tomlinson will try proving he's fit to become #1 back but will probably split time with Greene. WR's must catch the ball as they suffered through too many drops. The pressure is on Sanchez. The bar is high. After a successful '09 New Yorkers are expecting nothing less than a division title and playoff success. So is coach Ryan. Sophomore jinx or stardom? Jets should win no less than 11 (barring injuries). If defense dominates, perhaps 13.

2) Miami Dolphins Dolfans started to believe in their team midway through the year. Miami began slow (0-3) and collapsed at the end (0-3). In between, they were playing inspired football (7-3). Chad Henne finally has receivers. Running game is one of NFL's best. I'm not a fan of Dolphins draft results but this is a talented front office so maybe they know what they're doing. It wouldn't surprise me in the least if Miami wins the East. Henne is the key. Is he ready to "lead"? If so, Miami's future is bright. All the pieces are in place for success.

3) New England Patriots New England won the East in '09 but it wasn't pretty. Offense was out of sync often disrupting drives. Running game was non-existent, passing game stats looked solid but actual game play didn't translate into wins. 8-0 at home, 2-6 on the road. No major additions heading into '10. Offensive line needs to open up lanes for less than gifted backs. Randy Moss needs to keep his head in games. Patriots can go either way but appear to be nothing more than a .500 team.

4) Buffalo Bills Buffalo looked pretty solid in 5 of their 6 wins. However, they looked grossly outplayed in 8 of 10 losses. Bills will be lucky to beat any division rivals this year (0-6) which spells doom and gloom. This team isn't maturing. 30th ranked offense should get a jolt with the arrival of draftee C.J. Spiller (Clemson). Nothing else to report. Last place finish is all but guaranteed.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFC West

NFC West is up for grabs. Each team has something to prove heading into 2010. Arizona's gamer Kurt Warner retired leaving the team Matt Leinart's hands. 49ers no nonsense coach demands excellence. Niners have rising talent. The time is now for them to step up and be counted. Seattle lost their way in recent seasons almost seeming unmotivated at times. The Rams have a long way to go after front office gaffe's and injuries quickly turned a once proud franchise into a laughingstock.

1) San Francisco 49ers The time is now for SF to put themselves on NFL radars. There's no clear cut dominant team in the West. Maturity breeds consistency, or so I've been told. Mediocrity ruled the day last year. SF's once pounding running game never got going until late in the year. QB's never put fear into defenders or confidence into receivers. Overall team stats were just below middle of the road. Room for improvement on all fronts. Their 2nd first round pick netted highly regarded Mike Lupati (OG, Idaho) who many think is already All Pro material. 2nd rounder Taylor Mays (S, USC) is a heavy hitter. Penn State LB Navorro Bowman (according to ESPN) has "great physical skills, natural instincts and a nose for the football." 49ers addressed needs. Now it's time for this club to come together as a team.

2) Arizona Cardinals QB Matt Leinart will be given every opportunity to win the starting nod. He's had mixed results over the course of a short career. Can he step up and play like a #1? Arizona's immediate future depends on it. Running game showed flash for the first time in years with the 1-2 tandem of Hightower and Wells (combined 1,391 yds, 15 tds rushing - 75 rec, 571 yds receiving). Cards schedule was easy in '09. Guess which team has easiest '10 schedule? That's right. Cards opponents, based on '09 records, are 114-142. Worst in football. Leinart & Co. couldn't write a better script for success. Defense has to step up and clamp down opposing offenses. Great coaching staff but draft never lived up to expectations beyond 1st rounder Dan Williams (DT, Tenn).

3) Seattle Seahawks New coach Pete Carroll first season in Seattle will be challenging. 2009 offense was abysmal scoring 14 or fewer seven times. Defense was just as inept surrendering 31 or more points six times. The result, 17.5 points per game scored by offense vs 24.4 given up by defense. It's amazing they won 5 even when playing the Rams twice. Running attack seemed lost. Passing game never bailed out team when needed. Bickering on all levels prevailed starting with WR TJ Houshmandzadeh's personal ratings complaint against Madden Football. 'Hawks draft did not go well. Perhaps Carroll needs a new scouting crew too?! A kick in the butt might re-energize a team clearly playing below potential.

4) St. Louis Rams No winning seasons since 2003 and team has been progressively degenerating. Cumulative record last three seasons stands at 6-42. When you're this bad drafting becomes ultra important. NFL #1 pick was Oklahoma QB Sam Bradford. Rams had better be careful not to mortgage their future on this kids contract. That said, Bradford has the tools necessary to become an upper tier signal caller if handled correctly. Rams second 1st round pick addressed another important team need when they selected offensive lineman Roger Saffold (Indiana). I'm a bit skeptical on their remaining picks and firmly believe a golden opportunity to build a powerful team was lost. Rams will not win many and seem years out from returning to competitive football. New ownership needs a big wrecking ball as this franchise needs a complete makeover.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFC South

Super Bowl XLIV Champion New Orleans are the obvious odds on favorite to win NFC South. They're better, deeper and maturing quickly. They should have no problem as repeat division winners unless they haven't stopped partying.

1) New Orleans Saints Saints take dead aim at back to back titles. Solid draft netted a future starting CB (Patrick Robinson, FSU), future starting TE (Jimmy Graham, UM) and local DT from LSU Al Woods. None figure to be immediate impact players but they'll fit right in with a very deep and talented squad. Brees' targets are maturing nicely. Running game may need a boost to help give the defense a rest. Defensive players are ball hawks. These guys swarm to the ball and create turnovers (26 int, 15 fumbles). They ran off to a stunning 13-0 record. Saints have the 27th hardest (6th easiest) scheduling heading into 2010. 14 wins is a possibility.

2) Atlanta Falcons After an 11-5 finish in '08 and additions to key positions on offense heading into '09 Falcons fans had high hopes. Atlanta soared early before crash landing mid-season. 4-1 quickly turned into 6-7 before rebounding to finish 9-7. Team needs were met in the draft with the selections of LB Sean Weatherspoon (Mizzou) and DT Corey Peters (Ken). To help protect oft pressured QB Ryan Atlanta tabbed 2 guards, Alabama's Mike Johnson & Joseph Hawley (UNLV). Atlanta has all the tools to return as a playoff challenger. Solid talent at most positions. Falcons middle of the road defense holds the key to success or failure.

3) Carolina Panthers I was a bit off last year in one of various NFC synopsis. I expected Carolina to put the naysayers to rest and make the playoffs. Their 8-8 record is quite deceptive. Offense scored 10 or fewer points five times. Play selection was miserable which was no help to Jake Delhomme who looked weak armed and lost while posting career worst numbers. Panthers really needed to better position themselves before draft day. Their first pick came in round 2, 48th overall. A very questionable pick taking Notre Dame's QB Jimmy Clausen. Many question marks heading into training camp covering all bases from starting qb to health issues with runningbacks. 2010 will be a transition season unless questions are answered early and new role players step it up.

4) Tampa Bay Buccaneers Tampa production on both offense and defense ranked near last in all categories. They're a long way from climbing back to championship status. QB situation was a revolving door before Josh Freeman took over. Weak running game produced only 5 td's. Bucs gave the ball away 34 times. Offense scored 10 or less six times. Another long year awaits but there's light at the end of the tunnel if fans can be patiently supportive. They had a great draft. 3rd pick of the NFL draft was Gerald McCoy, DT, Oklahoma. 2nd round pick UCLA's DT Brian Price. Their presence will be felt immediately and should mature into fine players for years to come helping restore Tampa's reputation for no nonsense defense. 4th rounder Mike Williams (WR, SYR) might turn out being the steal of this draft if he can straighten out personal off field issues. 2010 will be filled with ups and downs. No reason this team can't win 5-7 games.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFC North

Let's for now speculate Brett Favre is back for another title run in '10... Green Bay piles on points... Chicago finally lives up to potential... and, Detroit fulfills dreams of winning at least one game.

1) Minnesota Vikings 6 NFC Championship fumbles, including two lost inside the red zone at key moments cost the Vikings a Super Bowl trip when they had every opportunity to blow out the eventual champion Saints. Favre will be back. So will a maturing and gelling team of gamers. Peterson must protect the football his number is called. As a safety precaution, Minnesota went after another RB in this years' draft. Stanford's powerful Toby Gerhart. Offense has it all. Defense must tamper their over aggressive play to eliminate long td's. Coaching staff is one of NFL's best groups. Vikings will be in the thick of things all year long. 12+ wins can be had again (health permitting).

2) Green Bay Packers Green Bay's stunning opening round overtime 51-45 loss stung. The Pack's defense entered the game on a roll. Until Kurt Warner completely dissected them completing 29 of 33 passes and 5 touchdowns. Needless to say opposing offenses will be testing this squads secondary early and often in 2010. No help came by way of draft so it appears Packers brass are comfortable with current talents turning it up a notch this year. Pack defensive lapses of letting teams march downfield in closing minutes is clearly what separates them from elite status.

3) Chicago Bears Jay Cutler was never able to live up to the savior status bestowed by local Chicago media groups. Lack of positive play making by wide receivers and an ineffective ground game severely hindered Bears chances of advancing up field. Bad field position and poor time of possession kept Bear defenders on the field for way too long. 2010 can go either way. Coach Lovie Smith is on the hot seat.

4) Detroit Lions Detroit pulled off another good paper draft. Problem is this organization's recent history seems to make rookies go bust. There's no upside in Motor City. Repeating two wins in 2010 might be a long shot. Lions combined 2008 & 2009 record? 2-30.

Visit "All World All Sports"

NFL 2010 Preseason Predictions - NFC East

-Digger's Daily-

The 2010 NFL regular season kicks off September 9th with a bang. In a rematch of last year's NFC Championship Game, Minnesota takes on defending Super Bowl Champion New Orleans Saints. Dallas is getting a head start on competitors when they become the first team hitting practice fields (July 24th). From coast to coast plenty of news will be coming from NFL cities as teams try to stay injury free this preseason prepping for a grueling 16 game war. Every division will be a fierce battle. Plenty of question marks will be answered one way or another. Can Romo finally step up a become a big game QB? Will the Giants bounce back to Super form? Can New Orleans take advantage of a weak schedule and repeat? How about those tarnished stars? Will Roethlisberger, Vick, Owens and company ever straighten out their troubled persona's?

Each day this week I'll be breaking down the NFL division by division. First up NFC East.

1) New York Giants A series of devastating injuries to key personnel derailed New York's season (8-8) after they opened up 5-0. Manning and a young receiving corps were often out of sync. Look for the offense to be explosive this year if the line is sound. On defense, draft picks were a bit questionable and may not provide immediate impact. However, if all returning injured players are fully healthy then this will be a dangerous team in every facet of the game. 7th hardest NFL schedule heading into 2010. Coaches will have them ready to play. Giants are hungry and will emerge division winners.

2) Dallas Cowboys The Cowboys finally enjoyed a strong regular season finish in '09 winning their final 3 (2 by shutout). Dallas even found a way to win their first playoff game since December 28, 1996. Excitement is in the air once again heading into 2010 for a team which many think has never realized full potential. QB Tony Romo continues to be plagued by lack of leadership critiques and inability to perform in big games. Coaching staff play calling and lack of player control/respect carries over once again. If they can keep the sideshow off the field then Dallas could be primed for a Super run. Explosive weapons on offense and aggressive defense (NFC low 250 points against) set the stage for a big year. Despite all their talent something always seems to unhinge this squad. 2nd place on the way vs NFL's 3rd toughest schedule. They'll be in the wild card hunt.

3) Washington Redskins Welcome Mike Shanahan, new coaches and new team field general Donovan McNabb. The Redskins are finally getting their act together. Questionable first two draft picks could pay huge dividends if these players are committed to excellence (Trent Williams, OL, Oklahoma & Perry Riley, OLB, LSU). Washington is probably another 2 years from making a serious run. However, do not take this team lightly. 'Skins will be greatly improved from a dismal 4-12 shellacking of 2009. Expect these seasoned vets to play inspired football. 8-8 is well within reach.

4) Philadelphia Eagles I've always believed a few screws must be loose in the minds of Philly's personnel decision makers. On and off over the years the football world has wondered aloud what life would be like without Donovan McNabb under center. Well they're about to find out how quickly life changes after trading away a career 92-49-1 quarterback who led Eagles teams into the playoffs in 8 of 10 seasons. Worse yet, McNabb was traded to division rival Washington. Revenge is sweet McNabb gets two cracks per seasn vs a team he knows inside and out. Kevin Kolb filled in well when McNabb missed time and will be given every opportunity to claim starter status. On the field Michael Vick gets a crack to unseat Kolb. Off field troubles continue haunting this guy and might lead to getting cut or traded. It's going to be a very long season in Philadelphia. Terrible draft picks makes one wonder if it's time to replace their entire scouting staff. 11-5 might become 5-11 (if they're lucky).

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

News from the world of sports is plentiful this week. There's plenty to talk of from good to bad to sad.

The Good.

Spain won the World Cup in a hard fought 1-0 victory over a gutsy Netherlands team on a 116th minute goal by Andres Iniesta. It was the first time South Africa hosted a World Cup tournament. If you were able to overcome the seemingly disturbing headache induced ear drum piercing sounds coming from vuvuzela's then you were treated to 31 days of exciting soccer action.

Something finally happened in the baseball world for the first time since 1996. The National League won an All Star Game! The NL was on the verge of making it 14 in a row before MVP Brian McCann (Atlanta) lashed a game winning 3 run double in the 7th inning. The last NL MVP was also a catcher. In 1995 Mike Piazza won top nod after NL's 6-0 shutout of AL rivals.

Effects of steroids finally wearing off in Major League Baseball? Apparently so and there's a new breed of ballplayers coming up through the ranks making instant impacts on today's style of play. In a world where everything is anything but normal, baseball is back on track. There's been 4 no hitters (Ubaldo Jiminez, Edwin Jackson) including two perfect games (Dallas Braden, Roy Halladay). Every division is hotly contested. Potential triple crown threats. Now, we head into a potential deadline beating trading frenzy.

The British Open Golf Championship is underway across the pond. The opening rounds have been great to watch. Weather conditions have played havoc as golfer must adjust their game natures vengeance. Only the players who remain calm, cool and collected stand a chance when Mother Nature comes calling. It's anyone's guess as to who will be crowned champ on Sunday.

The Bad

LeBron James needing a nationally televised event on ESPN to announce choosing a new team. LeBron should great disrespect by placing himself above the game. Disrespect for former teammates and management in Cleveland. Disrespect towards those who courted his services. He'll be cheered every night in Miami as Heat fans are deliriously excited day dreaming of future championships with Wade, Bosh & James leading the way. I'd be willing to bet he'll be booed intensely by cities left in the dust without so much as a thank you call.

New York Yankees players did not attend Bob Sheppard's funeral. The 99 year old iconic legendary voice of Yankee Stadium died this week and not one single current Yankee player attended funeral services. Sheppard was a beloved member of the Yankees family. His voice will always be remembered by dedicated Yankees fans. Shep won the praises of generations of players young and old. Upon learning of his passing, Yankees captain Derek Jeter requested from now on there will be a taped recording of Sheppard's voice announcing his name. Ok, great... then why didn't the Yankees captain, one of Shep's most outspoken supporters, attend the funeral service. Shame on Yankees management for not arranging a Yankees style funeral.

A terrorist group linked to al Qaeda is claiming responsibility for two explosions that killed at least 74 people in Uganda as they watched the World Cup finale. The two simultaneous blasts occurred at a rugby club where Ugandans were watching the Finals and at an Ethiopian restaurant.

Rumors are starting to surface claiming Rogers Clemens used steroids extensively during his career. Former Red Sox GM Dan Duquette went on the record this week... "I'll just say this...let's let it play out a little bit more, I think there is more information and evidence that will show that Roger used performance enhancing drugs in a significant way." Perhaps this had something to do with Clemens Boston career coming to an abrupt end. Don't forget, Clemens is still under investigation by a grand jury for perjury during a 2008 trial.

The Sad

Yankees owner George Steinbrenner, 80, died this week at his home in Tampa. His career as Yankees owner was dedicated, colorful, vocal and with plenty of turmoil. He bought the Yanks from an inept CBS ownership crew for a mere $10 million. Today, the Yankees empire is valued well over $1 Billion. Steinbrenner, "The Boss", spared no costs when it came to building a winning club. He's one of the main owners who turned free agency into a windfall of money for players. Other owners would soon find themselves shelling out big bucks or risk losing baseball's stars to a free spending Steinbrenner. The Boss' career and legacy will be closely scrutinized as not all actions were honorable. Either way, there's no denying Steinbrenner as one of baseball's most flamboyant icons during the past 37 years. RIP Boss.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 Major League Baseball's first half was sensational. Standout performances were plentiful from no hitters to 3 homer games, long winning streaks, losing streaks and personal bests. A few surprises in the standings along the way as teams jockey in and out of playoff contention. Many teams remain in the hunt heading into the second half of our baseball season. Anything can happen. If history repeats, then hold on for a wild ride down the stretch. Don't forget about baseball's trading deadline. There will be plenty of buyers and sellers as teams attempt to load up for playoff runs.

All World All Sports All Star Break Power Rankings (top 10):

1) New York Yankees (56-32) - Yanks hanging tough with mlb's best record. They could be looking for catching depth or another starting pitcher after getting burned by Seattle for Cliff Lee. Perhaps a setup man will settle down a somewhat erratic middle relief corps.

2) Tampa Bay Rays (54-34) - Rays hot on Yanks trail while trying to fend of Boston. Tampa will be challenged for wild card honors and will do their best to catch division rival Yanks. Southpaw Price (12-4, 2.42) starts for AL All Stars Tuesday night.

3) Chicago White Sox (49-38) - Hottest team heading into the break winners of 8 in a row to take over AL Central lead. Their bats have come alive. Starting pitching biggest question mark. Especially after losing Jake Peavy who was finally hot. Expect trade rumors seeking out a stud starter.

4) Atlanta Braves (52-36) - Not many gave the Braves a shot at winning the East. Atlanta has NL's best record in Bobby Cox's final season. Solid pitching, good defense and timely hits leading the way for the Braves. They just took 2 of 3 in New York. It'll be interesting to see if the Braves look for CF or LF help down the stretch.

5) San Diego Padres (51-37) - It's been all about pitching and defense (MLB low 304 runs against). Padres would be running away with the NL West if their lineup was able to produce runs. Don't expect deadline deals even though they could use a few bats. Colorado is hot on their trail. Fate rests on pitching staff.

6) Colorado Rockies (49-39) - Guess who's heating up after another slow start out of the gates? Winning 8 of 10 heading into the break lands Colorado in 2nd place 1/2 game ahead of Dodgers. Cy Young Award leading candidate Jiminez leading the way (15-1, 2.20) has been named NL All Star starting pitcher.

7) Texas Rangers (50-38) - Heaving hitting lineup and solid pitching has Texas leading all AL West teams. Rangers finally acquire a top notch starter landing lefty Cliff Lee from Seattle. Can Rangers survive intense summer heat and hold on? Time will tell but this is the best team in the West. One more pitcher could be on the way? Will it be Oswalt?

8) Boston Red Sox (51-37) - Boston remain within striking distance despite numerous injuries to key players all season long. Beckett is rehabbing and will be a welcome addition if arm is sound. Sox could be busy traders in the days to come attempting to fill voids created by injuries (especially on defense). Boston could go either way in 2nd half.

9) Detroit Tigers (48-38) - Trailing Central leading Detroit by 1/2 a game at the break. Detroit has finished terribly in recent seasons. Pitching and middle infield defense need a shot in the arm. Cabrera and Ordonez leading the offense. Tigers could be a busy trade deadline team.

10) Cincinnati Reds (49-41) - Reds were hot until 4 straight losses cooled them off. Dusty Baker has these guys playing inspired baseball. Lack of consistant starting pitching could doom Cincinnati. As of now, it's only a two team Central battle. Lineup needs to keep up clutch hitting to make up for lack of pitching.

Stay tuned for 2nd half predictions.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Every once in a while fans are treated to a tremendous All Star Home Run Contest. Not too long ago, Josh Hamilton put on one of the most memorable displays blasting 28 long balls at Yankee Stadium (no, he didn't win). This years' contest has a few new names as many sluggers opted not to participate. It's a shot in the dark trying to predict which player will walk away with top honors.

The hackers:

Miguel Cabrera (DET, 22 regular season HR) - Cabrera is one of my favorite current baseball players and has been since his rookie season. Everything he does seems effortless and he continues to be one of the games greats. Miguel might be able to advance out of the opening round but I just don't see him walking away with a win here. His swing is almost too perfect and tends to crack more line drives than deep flies.

Corey Hart (MIL, 21) - Hart is a free swinger which gives him a legit shot at winning this contest.

Vernon Wells (TOR, 19) - Wells is serious about winning. Look for him to nail some deep blasts. I'm thinking he'll hit double digits in the opening round.

David Ortiz (BOS, 18) - Big Papi is my odds on favorite this year. He's no stranger to being in the spotlight and has the perfect upper cut swing to do some serious damage tonight. It wouldn't at all surprise me to watch Ortiz nail a combined 25+.

Matt Holliday (STL, 16) - Similar to Cabrera whereas line drives may not have enough juice to clear the outfield wall. Tremendous hitter but might not be able to turn it up enough to get out of the first round.

Chris Young (AZ, 15) - Free swinging Young might surprise the field tonight. I'm not putting much stock into thinking he'll walk away as 2010 champ. However, he's a serious underdog who might do some major damage.

Nick Swisher (NYY, 15) - I'm hoping Swish doesn't damage his swing after participating. Often times hot hitters enter this contest and emerge powerless during the seasons' second half. Nick will probably hit the least of all contestants.

Hanley Ramirez (FLA, 13) - Marlins super star SS can do it all. But, can he win a home run contest? We'll soon find out.

Projected order of finish:
David Ortiz (winner), Vernon Wells, Corey Hart, Miguel Cabrera, Hanley Ramirez, Matt Holliday, Chris Young, Nick Swisher.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

The suspense is over. NBA star LeBron James has chosen to play for the Miami Heat. ESPN helped turn James decision into a spectacle by hosting a one hour prime time special, "The Decision", where analysts debated which team would be the best fit for one of the games greats. Never before has the sporting world witnessed such an event. Instead of talking directly to the teams involved (Cleveland, New York, New Jersey, Chicago, Clippers and Miami) James chose to go prime time angering many along the way.

Headlines from the losing cities are tenaciously attacked LeBron. Sports editorials ripping him a new one. Some catchy headlines include (links included):

NY Post front page headline "LeBum" and front sports page shouted "Son of a Beach!" (NY Post)

NY Daily News front page "Who Cares!" and back sports page headline also read "Son of a Beach!" (NY Daily News)

Cleveland.com (online edition) has headline after headline tearing apart James decision.

You get the idea. The manner in how this all unfolded has ruffled many players, coaches, teams and fans. The harshest words have come directly from James former employers in Cleveland which even questioned LeBron's lackadasical playoff performances when the Cavs were eliminated by Boston. Team owner Dan Gilbert went the extra mile publishing an open letter to Cavaliers fans. I don't ever remember a team owner ripping apart a former player in this manner (read here). Gilbert called James decision a "cowardly betrayal" and went on to claim "In the meantime, I want to make one statement to you tonight: "I personally guarantee that the Cleveland Cavaliers will win an NBA Championship before the self-titled former 'King' wins one."

The only positive news came from South Florida newspapers who are joyfully predicting Wade, Bosh & James will deliver many titles. Personally, I feel James made the right choice in playing in Miami for many reasons. Tax concerns (no local & state taxes) allows James to keep much of his soon to be large contract and endorsements. New York & Federal taxes would have consumed 2/3's of money earned. South Florida is also a great diverse environment to live. Miami Heat are dedicated to winning and have a terrific organization. James also gets to play with close friends Dwyane Wade and Chris Bosh.

On the flip side, did LeBron James really need to have a one hour ESPN special to announce his long anticipated decision? No! This was not the proper forum to flip off all those who worked so hard attempting to better their teams. A personal phone call saying "thank you for honoring me"... at least something somewhat responsible and respectful. To each their own choices but can anyone blame those left in the dust for having a bad feeling? James will hear it loud and clear from fans in losing bid cities once the regular season begins. He's now public enemy #1 in Chicago, New York, Cleveland, New Jersey and L.A.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

A select few National Football League players have much to think about lately. 1st & goal or 4th & long? What will it be for some troubled players? Will they get take control of their personal troubles and get on with their careers? Or will teams simply give up on signing talents filled with off field distractions? Some players just can't seem to take positive advantage of many second chances offered. Here's a few making negative news lately as the 2010 season quickly approaches.

Terrell Owens is flapping his gums again. Pointing fingers is nothing new for the outspoken T.O. This time taking aim at ESPN. "A lot of people have listened to a lot of the commentaries throughout a lot of the media outlets, mainly ESPN, that has my character in question as far as things that have happened in the past," Owens said. "And I think even though I may do 99 good things right and if I do one thing wrong, ESPN and the people on there is gonna make it out to be the worst thing ever." Let's be clear. Owens has never been known as a team player. He disrupts team chemistry everywhere he plays. There's always a blame game from trash talking head coaches, quarterbacks, offensive coordinators and teammates. It's been this way throughout his NFL career from San Francisco to Philadelphia to Dallas to Buffalo. Now, blaming the media for lack of a contract. At this stage, and price tag, why would any team want his services? As of now, none do. There's only one person to blame but T.O. rarely engages in self analysis. Owens' career is in the 4th and long stage.

Former Oakland Raiders JaMarcus Russell's fame will be remembered as one of the biggest draft busts. The former LSU college star was Oakland's #1 pick in 2007. It's doubtful Russell will ever suit up for another NFL team. 7 career wins in 25 starts accompanied by a "myriad" of off field problems. The latest was a recent arrest for possession of a controlled substance (codeine syrup). UFL might come calling. NFL teams will not.

There's a new substance spreading across NFL locker rooms. NFL drug testing policies make it difficult for players to find a new high. But, those who want to find a way now turn to "purple drank" (liquid codeine). Purple drank is a slang term for a recreational drug popular in the hip hop community in the southern United States and now seems to be catching on in NFL circles. Its main ingredient is prescription-strength cough syrup containing codeine and promethazine. Cough syrup is typically mixed with soft drinks or pieces of Jolly Rancher candy. The purplish hue of purple drank comes from dyes in the cough syrup. Look out NFL, there's a new drug in town which seems to slip past current testing policies. No one knows for sure how wide spread this has become. Rest assured teams and local law enforcement will be hot on the trail.

How long before Michael Vick distances himself from trouble? He was one of the NFL's most exciting players before getting busted in a dog fighting ring. Philadelphia went so far as trading star QB Donavan McNabb to division rival Washington opening the door for Vick compete for the job of Eagles top signal caller. This ex-con continues to defy logic. Vick was out celebrating his 30th birthday recently. The celebration soon turned to gunshots placing Vick front and center of a police investigation. "I want to assure everyone that I had nothing to do with that incident," Vick said in a statement released to the press almost a week after the June 25 shooting. "I left the restaurant prior to it occurring and did not witness what happened." Vick's lawyer told The Associated Press the victim was Quanis Phillips, a high school teammate and co-defendant in Vick's infamous dog fighting case for which Vick served 21 months in federal prison. Doesn't sound like Vick has successfully distanced himself from questionable friends. Will Philadelphia soon jettison Vick? Unconfirmed rumors suggest he's being shopped around the NFL. Maybe he'll finally get a grip after this latest incident. More will follow after a full police investigation.

Has Jacksonville had enough of the Jaguars? Vic Ketchman of Jaguars.com calls this the "save the whale" juncture in team history. Apparently intra-squad scrimmages will only be for season ticket holders. Jacksonville's fan base is diminishing rapidly. Team play has not been good in recent years. Florida has the Miami Dolphins and Tampa Bay Bucs. The Jags are in jeopardy of home game television blackouts and team officials are sounding alarm bells. 2010 might be their last year in Jacksonville. Their official website is quoted as saying... (Vic Ketchman) "At this time, I would like to speak to everyone from my heart. I ask that you, please, read my words carefully and embrace them. Here goes: Folks, this is it. This is save the whale. Forget, for the moment, about kids and growing the fan base for the future. We’ve been doing that since 1995. Back then, it was about the future. In 2010, it’s about the present. The decision to limit the scrimmage to season-ticket holders was made for the purpose of adding value to a season ticket. It was carefully considered and the decision was made, not for the purpose of punishing those who don’t have tickets, but to reward those who do have tickets because adding value to a season ticket might help sell more of them. That’s all it is. The focus has become that sharp because ticket sales, not the futures of David Garrard and Jack Del Rio, is the number one issue confronting this team, and it’s not about next year’s ticket sales or growing the fan base for 2020, it’s about selling tickets for this year. This is it. This is save the whale and, from my perch on the beach, the whale is struggling to live. I think everyone would do well to understand that the radical nature of this decision underscores the team’s desperation to sell tickets. The team knew this decision would be harshly criticized, yet, it went forward with it. Why do you think it did? If your answer is that we have reached the tipping point, then you are a logical person." It's safe to guess professional football in northern Florida will soon end.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

One by one the biggest names in basketball are being signed to wealthy contracts. Stars of the game are being wined and dined to the max. New York is one of many teams attempting to lure LeBron James. The Knicks showed how James could net well over $1 Billion in contract money plus Big Apple endorsements. New York recently signed another big name by gambling on oft injured Amare Stoudemire (5 years, $99.7M) hoping this too would help land LeBron. Personally, I don't think James necessarily wants to sign with New York. LeBron James can write his own future. He'll sign for maximum dollars no matter where he decides to play. Why would he want to take a step backwards from a championship calibur team to play for a rebuilding New York squad? He doesn't.

Miami has turned up the heat. Wade has been re-signed. Joining Wade is another sought after free agent, Chris Bosh. Adding James would instantly give Miami the leagues best 1-2-3 punch, Wade, Bosh & James. Florida living is superb. Miami is an excellent organization. The way I see it, James will either land in South Florida or decide to play for his hometown Chicago Bulls who just signed Carlos Boozer earlier today.

Decision day is Thursday during an hour long ESPN special. Sorry New Yorkers, it's going to take more than just money to turn around a desperate Knicks franchise struggling to create new glory days.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

No rest for the weary eyed headline readers. Action abounds everywhere in the world of sports from around the globe.

World Cup 2010 is nearing its' climax. The Neatherlands team reached the Finals for the first time since 1978 after an exciting 3-2 victory over Uruguay. Oranje has won all 6 matches and now awaits their next opponent for Sunday's World Cup Finals match. Will they play Germany? Or Spain?

NBA's free agent frenzy rumors are heating up. New York's Knicks made their first big move signing Amar'e Stoudemire to a 5 year $100M contract. Stoudemire's first order of business is to lure another big name free agent, or two, to play in the Big Apple. Knicks brass has been tempting James with the league max offer plus enticing endorsements which could net the total package in excess of $1 billion. Looks like there's no recession when it comes to throwing money at top NBA players. Teams and fans are checking twitter updates to find out if their favorite players will be returning to current teams or signing elsewhere. Bosh, Wade, LeBron, Dirk...? Where will they sign?

Baseball's All Star starters have been announced. As usual, plenty of controversy will soon follow when deserving players get left behind and replaced by questionable stars. Injuries are forcing some big name players out of this years contest in Anaheim. Will National League players finally win for the first time since 1996? Is it finally time to can awarding World Series home field advantage to All Star Game winners? YES! No way should the World Series be determined by All Star Game winners. Enough is enough. The experiment was successful for a number of years. Time to find other All Star incentives.

So far, the toughest All Star draw has been luring players to participate in the State Farm Home Run Derby. As of now, only 6 sluggers have signed up. Miguel Cabrera (Detroit), Robinson Cano (Yankees), David Ortiz (Boston) and Vernon Wells (Toronto), Corey Hart (Milwaukee) and Matt Holliday (St. Louis). Cano is a great hitter but the league is reaching if he qualifies as a "slugger". Seems as though players aren't into the contest anymore.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Happy Independence Day America!

IN CONGRESS, JULY 4, 1776
The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America

When in the Course of human events it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. — That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. — Such has been the patient sufferance of these Colonies; and such is now the necessity which constrains them to alter their former Systems of Government. The history of the present King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute Tyranny over these States. To prove this, let Facts be submitted to a candid world.

He has refused his Assent to Laws, the most wholesome and necessary for the public good.

He has forbidden his Governors to pass Laws of immediate and pressing importance, unless suspended in their operation till his Assent should be obtained; and when so suspended, he has utterly neglected to attend to them.

He has refused to pass other Laws for the accommodation of large districts of people, unless those people would relinquish the right of Representation in the Legislature, a right inestimable to them and formidable to tyrants only.

He has called together legislative bodies at places unusual, uncomfortable, and distant from the depository of their Public Records, for the sole purpose of fatiguing them into compliance with his measures.

He has dissolved Representative Houses repeatedly, for opposing with manly firmness his invasions on the rights of the people.

He has refused for a long time, after such dissolutions, to cause others to be elected, whereby the Legislative Powers, incapable of Annihilation, have returned to the People at large for their exercise; the State remaining in the mean time exposed to all the dangers of invasion from without, and convulsions within.

He has endeavoured to prevent the population of these States; for that purpose obstructing the Laws for Naturalization of Foreigners; refusing to pass others to encourage their migrations hither, and raising the conditions of new Appropriations of Lands.

He has obstructed the Administration of Justice by refusing his Assent to Laws for establishing Judiciary Powers.

He has made Judges dependent on his Will alone for the tenure of their offices, and the amount and payment of their salaries.

He has erected a multitude of New Offices, and sent hither swarms of Officers to harass our people and eat out their substance.

He has kept among us, in times of peace, Standing Armies without the Consent of our legislatures.

He has affected to render the Military independent of and superior to the Civil Power.

He has combined with others to subject us to a jurisdiction foreign to our constitution, and unacknowledged by our laws; giving his Assent to their Acts of pretended Legislation:

For quartering large bodies of armed troops among us:

For protecting them, by a mock Trial from punishment for any Murders which they should commit on the Inhabitants of these States:

For cutting off our Trade with all parts of the world:

For imposing Taxes on us without our Consent:

For depriving us in many cases, of the benefit of Trial by Jury:

For transporting us beyond Seas to be tried for pretended offences:

For abolishing the free System of English Laws in a neighbouring Province, establishing therein an Arbitrary government, and enlarging its Boundaries so as to render it at once an example and fit instrument for introducing the same absolute rule into these Colonies

For taking away our Charters, abolishing our most valuable Laws and altering fundamentally the Forms of our Governments:

For suspending our own Legislatures, and declaring themselves invested with power to legislate for us in all cases whatsoever.

He has abdicated Government here, by declaring us out of his Protection and waging War against us.

He has plundered our seas, ravaged our coasts, burnt our towns, and destroyed the lives of our people.

He is at this time transporting large Armies of foreign Mercenaries to compleat the works of death, desolation, and tyranny, already begun with circumstances of Cruelty & Perfidy scarcely paralleled in the most barbarous ages, and totally unworthy the Head of a civilized nation.

He has constrained our fellow Citizens taken Captive on the high Seas to bear Arms against their Country, to become the executioners of their friends and Brethren, or to fall themselves by their Hands.

He has excited domestic insurrections amongst us, and has endeavoured to bring on the inhabitants of our frontiers, the merciless Indian Savages whose known rule of warfare, is an undistinguished destruction of all ages, sexes and conditions.

In every stage of these Oppressions We have Petitioned for Redress in the most humble terms: Our repeated Petitions have been answered only by repeated injury. A Prince, whose character is thus marked by every act which may define a Tyrant, is unfit to be the ruler of a free people.

Nor have We been wanting in attentions to our British brethren. We have warned them from time to time of attempts by their legislature to extend an unwarrantable jurisdiction over us. We have reminded them of the circumstances of our emigration and settlement here. We have appealed to their native justice and magnanimity, and we have conjured them by the ties of our common kindred to disavow these usurpations, which would inevitably interrupt our connections and correspondence. They too have been deaf to the voice of justice and of consanguinity. We must, therefore, acquiesce in the necessity, which denounces our Separation, and hold them, as we hold the rest of mankind, Enemies in War, in Peace Friends.

We, therefore, the Representatives of the united States of America, in General Congress, Assembled, appealing to the Supreme Judge of the world for the rectitude of our intentions, do, in the Name, and by Authority of the good People of these Colonies, solemnly publish and declare, That these united Colonies are, and of Right ought to be Free and Independent States, that they are Absolved from all Allegiance to the British Crown, and that all political connection between them and the State of Great Britain, is and ought to be totally dissolved; and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

— John Hancock

New Hampshire:
Josiah Bartlett, William Whipple, Matthew Thornton

Massachusetts:
John Hancock, Samuel Adams, John Adams, Robert Treat Paine, Elbridge Gerry

Rhode Island:
Stephen Hopkins, William Ellery

Connecticut:
Roger Sherman, Samuel Huntington, William Williams, Oliver Wolcott

New York:
William Floyd, Philip Livingston, Francis Lewis, Lewis Morris

New Jersey:
Richard Stockton, John Witherspoon, Francis Hopkinson, John Hart, Abraham Clark

Pennsylvania:
Robert Morris, Benjamin Rush, Benjamin Franklin, John Morton, George Clymer, James Smith, George Taylor, James Wilson, George Ross

Delaware:
Caesar Rodney, George Read, Thomas McKean

Maryland:
Samuel Chase, William Paca, Thomas Stone, Charles Carroll of Carrollton

Virginia:
George Wythe, Richard Henry Lee, Thomas Jefferson, Benjamin Harrison, Thomas Nelson, Jr., Francis Lightfoot Lee, Carter Braxton

North Carolina:
William Hooper, Joseph Hewes, John Penn

South Carolina:
Edward Rutledge, Thomas Heyward, Jr., Thomas Lynch, Jr., Arthur Middleton

Georgia:
Button Gwinnett, Lyman Hall, George Walton

(http://www.ushistory.org/Declaration/document/index.htm)

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Yes, baseball is a funny game. Has anyone taken notice of what's happening in National League divisional races? East favorite Philadelphia seems destined to surrender their hold as ranking NL pennant winners (2008 & 2009). They've fallen victim of a vicious injury bug continuing to sideline key players. SS Jimmy Rollins and RP Brad Lidge are back after missing most of the first half. Unfortunately, both 2B Chase Utley and 3B Polanco will miss considerable time after recent injuries. It's up to replacement players to keep Philadelphia in the hunt. Atlanta and New York are two hot teams who would love to dethrone their cocky arch rival Phillies .

Cincinnati leads the Central and appears more than ready to challenge '09 division champion Cardinals. As of this moment, the Reds have a 0.5 game lead after completing three consecutive winning months. Cincinnati's offense ranks #1 in NL. Most runs (389), hits (758), total bases (1218), batting average (.276), slugging (.444) and OPS (.785). It's a good thing their bats are producing runs because pitching remains a potential division race killer (4.44 ERA). Reds roster is a good mix of young stars on the rise and solid veterans. Don't take this crew lightly. We've all witnessed teams like Colorado and Florida come out of nowhere to shock rivals. Perhaps 2010 is Cincinnati's turn? Time will tell.

Los Angeles won the West last year but can't seem to find any sustainable rhythm this year. Pitching has been inconsistent and 58 combined home runs is well below NL team average (71). NL West gem thus far is San Diego led by the majors best pitching staff (3.10 ERA). It's safe to say nobody outside of San Diego imagined the Padres challenging for the West title. They're an NL best 46-32. If they could only hit (.247 is 14th) then these guys might have 60 wins. 1B slugger Adrian Gonzalez represents SD's only starter batting over .280 and slugging double digit home runs (.302, 16 HR). Their future beyond 2010 is bright. Lack of run production could haunt them in the 2nd half as only a few believe these pitchers can continue dominating. LA, Colorado and SF are within striking distance. Baseball fans will be treated to another wild west finish.

Hopefully all learned never take anything for granted after recent dramatic late season races each and every year during the new millennium. Don't be at all surprised to watch all three division races go right down to the finish line. Buckle up! National League baseball promises to keep fans on the edge of their seats.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

What makes a cinderalla team? A team expected to lose more than they win ends up winning more than they lose. Baseball's history is filled with tales of teams expected to lose winning big games. Let's look at a few of the games most notable cinderella World Series championship teams.

1) 1969 New York Mets Nobody anticipated the Mets sudden success. They entered the NL as an expansion team in 1962 inventing new ways to lose during their inaugural record setting 120 loss season. New York lost over 100 games in 5 of their first 6 seasons and were the laughingstock of MLB. Then came the 1969 season. Led by Tom Seaver (25-7) and Jerry Koosman (17-9), the Mets came out of nowhere after trailing division leading Chicago by 10 games in mid August, they went 38-11 and won the NL East by 8 games. Nobody gave NY a chance in post-season play. The Mets stunned Hank Aaron's Atlanta Braves in NLCS. Then they shocked the world by beating Baltimore 4-1 in the World Series.

2) 1914 Boston Braves Boston was coming off a dry spell of 11 consecutive seasons winning less than 70 games. They were left for dead in July twelve games below .500 and 15 out of first place before getting red hot. They finished 94-59, 10.5 games ahead of 2nd place NY Giants. Heavily favored Philadelphia A's were baseball's best having won 3 of the previous 4 World Series. Boston stunned everyone, epecially the A's, winning 4 straight games.

3) 1960 Pittsburgh Pirates Pittsburgh had just one winning season in 11 leading up to their 1960 championship year. By the end of May, the Pirates were in 1st place and never looked back. Their World Series opponent was the mighty New York Yankees. New York's powerful attack out scored Pittsburgh 38-3 in their 3 wins. Yet, it was the Pirates who won the Series by way of a dramatic Game 7, bottom of the 9th inning home run by Bill Mazeroski, 10-9. It was one of the most exciting Game 7's in league history as both teams came back from big deficits until Maz homer won it.

4) 1987 Minnesota Twins '87 was supposed to be a rebuilding year for Minnesota. A new manager (Tom Kelly) and a very young team didn't have many giving this squad any shot at doing much more than slightly improving from a dismal 6th place finish in '86. This cinderella team didn't come back from double digit deficits. As a matter of fact, they almost lost out thanks to finishing the year with 7 losses in their final 9 games. However, they regrouped in playoff action. Before it was all said and done, the Twins clawed their way to a 4 games to 3 World Series victory over favored St. Louis.

Baseball has it's share of cinderella almost champs worthy of recognition (all lost World Series)...
1967 Boston Red Sox, 2007 Colorado Rockies, 2008 Tampa Bay Rays, 1984 San Diego Padres, 1993 Philadephia Phillies,

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Sports fans had plenty to cheer and jeer during the past week. World Cup, Wimbledon, inter-league baseball play, NHL & NBA drafts have been front and center. So have blown calls, temper tantrums and near fights between teammates.

World Cup officiating has been nothing short of pitiful. US was robbed of a goal in the opening round costing them a win and near elimination. Today, another really bad missed call nearly marred Germany vs England. Perhaps it did take the wind away from England's sails? We'll never know. What we all do know is the ref's failed to give England a goal on a ball that clearly passed the goal line. Had the goal been allowed, England would have tied up their match 2-2 (Germany eventually won 4-2). Moments later in Mexico's loss to Argentina, the refs missed an obvious off sides resulting in a score which never should have been allowed. There's plenty of faulty officiating in World Cup action having direct impact on game results. Politics, favoritism or just flat out ineptitude? It's been a sad state of affairs in 2010 World Cup play.

Earlier this week Chicago Cubs hot head starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano went postal after allowing 4 first inning runs to cross town rival Chicago White Sox. The Cubs starter doesn't have his best stuff this year. Their one time ace is struggling and was even demoted briefly to bullpen duties earlier in last month. After surrendering 4, he stormed off the field into Chicago's dugout and went berserk. He singled out fellow teammates before getting into Derrek Lee's face. Zambrano was immediately tossed from the dugout and suspended by Cubs management. It's uncertain when he'll be allowed back to pitch. Zambrano's $20 million price tag will make it nearly impossible for Chicago to trade their disgraced and disgruntled pitcher.

Feathers were also ruffled in struggling Tampa Bay's dugout. After CF Upton lackadaisically chased after a gapper to left center which eventually went for a triple instead of double, team leader Evan Longoria took exception when Rays players returned to the dugout. Upton put his finger in Longoria's face just before the two were separated by teammates.

Turning up the heat isn't just for weather temperatures in 2010.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Have you taken time to vote for your favorite selections of baseball's All Star Game yet? If not, set aside a few minutes to visit MLB.com. As the Mid Summer Classic draws near, All World All Sports decided to have a little fun by assembling a list of All Star All Stars. The following list is comprised mostly of players selected to participate in at least 10 games. All listed had productive All Star Game results. DH selection is for entertainment purposes only since it didn't exist before 1973.

"All World All Sports All Star All Stars"
1B - Steve Garvey (LAD/SD) - 10 time All Star. .393 BA, 1.255 OPS, 2 2B, 2 3B, 2 HR.
2B- Charlie Gehringer (DET) - 29 plate appearances (10-20), .500 BA, .655 OBA.
3B - George Brett (KC) - Perhaps the toughest selection based on lack of standout hot corner ASG performances. Batted .292
SS - Derek Jeter (NYY) - .429 BA, 1.074 OPS for Yankees captain.
OF - Willie Mays (NYG/SF) - The "Say Hey Kid" shined. 23-75 (.307), 2 2B, 3 3B, 3 HR, 20 Runs.
OF - Ted Williams (BOS) - Teddy Ballgame played in 18 ASG, 1.091 OPS, .304 BA, 4 HR (tied for 2nd most), 12 RBI ranks #1.
OF - Fred Lynn (BOS/LAA) - .308 BA, 1.204 OPS, 4 HR (tied for 2nd), 10 RBI (tied for 2nd), 1st ever ASG grand slam.
C - Gary Carter (MON/NYM) - 2 All Star MVP Awards.
DH - Stan Musial (STL) - .317 BA, 1.029 OPS & most HR in ASG history 6.
SP- Don Drysdale (LAD) - 2-1, 1.40, most ASG IP (19.3), most ASG strikeouts (19), 2nd most wins (2, tied), 2nd most games (8, tied).
CL - Mariano Rivera (NYY) Shines in prime time. All Star record 4 Saves (8 IP, 0.00 ERA, 0.625 WHIP).

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Time to pick up where we left off yesterday handicapping first half MVP candidates. Today's focus is on National League players. NL MVP race has a long list of worthy considerations. Let's take a look at who stands out as baseball approaches the halfway point of our 2010 season.

Ubaldo Jiminez (SP-COL) - Jiminez is on collision course to accomplish a rare feat. CY Young & MVP. This guy has been lights out for Colorado. MLB best 13-1, 1.15. It doesn't get much better than this. He may also re-write modern day record books for single season ERA. Only one team has scored 3 runs against Jiminez. In 14 starts, he's held opponents to no runs 6 times (2 shutouts), one run 4 times and two runs 3 times. Jiminez also tossed a no hitter vs Atlanta on April 17th. Some argue pitchers shouldn't be considered for MVP's but it's hard to cast aside this kind of dominance.

Adrian Gonzalez (1B-SD) - Gonzo has been a one man show in San Diego's 25th ranked offense. Excellent pitching captures local headlines. It's been Gonzo's bat carrying the offense with absolutely no lineup protection. NL leading .969 OPS compliments a .313 BA, 18 2B, 15 HR, 47 RBI & .411 OBA. Pretty solid numbers for a player being pitched around. Perhaps SD will finally take Gonzo's name out of ever swirling trade rumors.

Martin Prado (2B-ATL) Who? That's right, Martin Prado should be considered an MVP candidate. NL leader in AB (303), hits (103), total bases (147) and tops in batting average .340. Toss in stellar defensive play up the middle and his contributions should be recognized by the baseball world. He's been one of the main reasons Atlanta is in first place (NL East, 42-29).

David Wright (3B-NYM) The Mets seem to rise or fall based on Wright's production. MVP's are often selected by an individual's consistency throughout a given season and by how on field contributions equate victories. Wright has been a hot run producer this month (18 Games, .375 BA, 6 2B, 4 HR, 21 RBI). His batting average now stands at .291 and 55 RBI's is tied for NL's lead. Wright has played a large part of Mets 14-4 June.

Keep an eye on ... Ryan Howard, Albert Pujols, Andre Ethier, Joey Votto & Aubrey Huff.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

As the 2010 Major League Baseball season nears its' halfway point a few players stand out above the rest. Five AL players performances have created MVP buzz talk. Their on field contributions have directly led to their teams success. It's too early to declare any one player a front runner. Anything can happen with over 80 games to play. Time for a quick look at the AL's leading first half candidates.

Justin Morneau (1B-MIN) - AL 2006 MVP is perhaps the major factor behind Minnesota leading the Central. Morneau's numbers are outstanding. Batting .340, 1.070 OPS, 20 2B, 15 HR, 47 RBI and AL best .448 OBA. He's been getting it done without much lineup protection. His defense has been nearly flawless with only 1 error in 63 starts at 1B.

Robinson Cano (2B-NYY) - Cano has been a hitting machine while playing Gold Glove caliber defense at 2B. Heading into '10, a few wondered if Cano would be a productive #5 hitter in New York's prolific attack. He's been sensational. AL leading 100 hits &.365 BA, 21 2B, 14 HR, 49 RBI & just 1 error in 367 chances. Cano has developed into AL best 2B. Perhaps, the best 2B in the majors.

Josh Hamilton (OF-TEX) - How hot is hot? Hamilton is on fire. His numbers are getting better each month. June will be hard to duplicate (.474 BA, 14 extra base hits in 19 games). 3rd in AL in hits (91), HR (16), RBI (52) & top 5 in most other major statistical categories.

Miguel Cabrera (1B-DET) - Detroit's 1B is one of the most consistent heavy hitters in the majors. He's on pace to exceed his career seasonal averages. If one equates MVP candidates by how their teams perform, Cabrera might be tops on the list. AL leading 19 HR, 60 RBI, .632 SLG. He's never finished higher than 4th in MVP voting.

Keep an eye on... Vladmir Guerrero, Kevin Youkilis, Evan Longoria, Adrian Beltre.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Save the date. 2010 Major League Baseball All Star Game. Tuesday, July 13th at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. If you haven't already voted for your favorite baseball players, then go to MLB.com and fill out an online ballot to help select this season's All Star starters. Fans can vote up to 25 times per email address. Talk about stuffing ballot boxes. Baseball's selection system is geared for maximum fan participation. Critics call it a ballot stuffing popularity contest often relegating deserving players to bench duty while fan favorites receive the honor of being named an All Star starter.

Time to select All World All Sports NL deserving starters....

1B- Adrian Gonzalez (SD) Gets the nod based on great production with no lineup support in a pitchers friendly division. 15 HR, 46 RBI, .302 BA, .938 OPS.
2B- Martin Prado (ATL) Leading NL hitter (.338 BA).
3B- Scott Rolen (CIN) Leads NL 3B with 14 HR, .939 OPS and main reason Reds challenging for NL Central crown.
SS- Juan Uribe (SF) Started 2010 as utility backup. Having big year in SF. Leads NL SS in HR (11) & RBI (42).
OF- Andre Ethier (LAD) Leads OF in BA .330, OPS (.995) & SLG (.603).
OF- Andrew McCutchen (PIT) Lone Pirates star batting .313 with 17 SB.
OF- Corey Hart (MIL) NL HR leader (17), 2nd in OF RBI (47).
C- Rod Barajas (NYM) Excellent signal caller and defensive backstop. Leads NL C's with 11 HR.
DH- Adam Dunn (WAS) 2nd in HR (16), 2nd OPS (.967), 2nd SLG (.588).
SP- Ubaldo Jiminez (COL) Nearly untouchable all year long. 13-1, 1.15 ERA tops in MLB.
CL- Jonathan Broxton (LAD) 16 Saves, 0.92 ERA, only 3 BB & 3 ER in 29.1 IP.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Save the date. 2010 Major League Baseball All Star Game. Tuesday, July 13th at Angels Stadium in Anaheim. If you haven't already voted for your favorite baseball players, then go to MLB.com and fill out an online ballot to help select this season's All Star starters. Fans can vote up to 25 times per email address. Talk about stuffing ballot boxes. Baseball's selection system is geared for maximum fan participation. Critics call it a ballot stuffing popularity contest often relegating deserving players to bench duty while fan favorites receive the honor of being named an All Star starter.

All World All Sports has selected "deserving" All Star starters. AWAS has no bearing on voting procedures or All Star participants. Simply put, we're selecting the best players (or most deserving) on a position by position basis. First up, 2010 American Leaguers....

1B- Miguel Cabrera (Det) AL slugging, RBI and OPS leader.
2B- Robinson Cano (NYY) hands down best AL 2B.
3B- Evan Longoria (TB) Leads AL 3B in most offensive categories.
SS- Alex Gonzalez (TOR) HR, Slugging & OPS leader at SS.
OF- Josh Hamilton (TEX) leading OF in RBI (50) & OPS (.970).
OF- Magglio Ordonez (DET) 1st in OBA (.410), 2nd in BA (.333), 2nd OPS (.931).
OF- Torii Hunter (LAA) Mr consistency near top of AL OF leaderboard.
C- Joe Mauer (MIN) stats are off but he's still AL's best backstop.
DH- Vladmir Guerrero (TEX) .331, 15 HR, 56 RBI blows away DH competition.
SP- David Price (TB) 10-2, 2.31 AL ERA leader and 1st to win 10.
CL- Jose Valverde (DET) 15 Saves, 0.61 ERA, allowed only 10 hits & 2 ER in 29.1 IP.

Stay tuned for All World All Sports NL All Stars.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

It's been a roller coaster type season for many MLB teams in 2010. Win a few, lose a few. Not many expected the Mets or Braves to challenge for top spot in their divisions. Same can be said for San Diego, San Francisco and Texas. Did anyone expect Philadelphia to drop out of PR's? Fans in Chicago, Colorado and Milwaukee are scratching their heads too. Here's a quick look at my top 10 baseball power rankings...

1) New York Yankees (41-25) - Too much talent. They lost Granderson, Posada, Johnson to prolonged injuries and still won in their absence. Now it's ARod's turn to miss some time. Yanks keep winning.
2) Tampa Bay Rays (41-25) - Doing it better on the road (23-10) than at home (18-15). Pitching is key to their success.
3) Boston Red Sox (40-28) - Look out. Here they come.
4) Texas Rangers (38-28) - 31-18 after beginning 7-10. Rangers have history of wilting in 100+ degree Texas summers. Maybe this year will be different?
5) Atlanta Braves (39-28) - Complete team effort. Chipper retirement talk put on hold. He has to step it up if Braves are to win NL East.
6) New York Mets (38-28) - Mets riding 7 game winning streak. Subway Series starts tonight vs Yanks.
7) Los Angeles Dodgers (38-28) - Key contributors banged up all year long. LA still winning.
8) San Diego Padres (38-28) - Padres given up MLB low 218 runs. Pitchers dominating. Will offense ever show up?
9) San Francisco (37-28) - Young SF team will only get better.
10) Minnesota Twins (38-28) - Twins getting it done but must start winning road games.

Closing in: Detroit, Cincinnati, Angels, Toronto

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Philadelphia has been slumping at the plate and in the standings. Is it a coincidence their slump coincides with being caught stealing opponents pitching signals? For those of you who forgot or missed the hub-bub... Phillies bullpen coach Mick Billmeyer was caught on camera peering through binoculars from the bullpen bench at Coors Field earlier in May. He then tipped off Phils hitters which pitch would be thrown. During the same game centerfielder Shane Victorino was spotted on the bullpen phone before stepping up to the plate (also caught on camera). MLB issued a penalty free warning to stop. Philadelphia has been on a steady decline ever since. Coincidence? Or, was sign stealing directly related to Phils success?

One can hardly ignore the National Leagues top offense has since been sputtering. Philadelphia was 20-12 leading NL East by 3 games. They've since gone 12-17 and were shut out six times dropping them from first to third. A few hitters, including All Star 2B Chase Utley, have been slumping. On May 12th, Utley was enjoying a fine season batting .314. His batting average now stands at .255 and dropping. Jayson Werth dropped from .348 down to .281 (after a career year in 2009). Ryan Howard now struggles to drive in base runners and has lost his power stroke which produced 4 straight seasons of at least 45 home runs and 136 RBI.

Sign stealing is nothing new in baseball. It's not against the rules either. If a team is sloppy enough to let their opposition catch on it's one thing. From time to time pitchers tip pitches. However, using binoculars to peer in towards home plate and then signal hitters is off base. Before this incident, Phils were accused of using cameras or planting personnel in perfect position to let hitters know what was about to be thrown.

Time will tell if all of this is all just a pure coincidence. However, all signs point to the Phils being lost without knowing what's coming next. Stay tuned.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Every now and then a feel good story comes to life. Today, in Boston, recently promoted rookie Daniel Nava needed only one pitch to become talk of the town in grand style. Nava became baseball's 2nd player to hit a grand slam on the first pitch of his first Major League at bat. It gets better....

Nava's parents raced to the game after learning Daniel was promoted. Their baggage was delayed at the airport. Not wanting to be late for their son's first big league game, they bolted straight to Fenway Park instead of waiting. Daniel's grand slam ignited the Red Sox and their fans. He finished 2-4 with a double, grand slam and 4 rbi's leading the Sox to a 10-2 romp over Philadelphia.

Instant area folk hero? Time will tell. No matter how Nava's professional career unfolds, Boston fans will never forget this rookie's debut.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

No rest for the weary. Lately, news headlines of the world have been flat out ugly. Wars, turmoil, financial debacles, nuclear proliferation. It's enough to make you head spin. Where can the average Joe escape for a bit of normality? How about in the world of sports. Plenty of sports headline makers were reported during June's early days. Here's a few which stood out....

Ken Griffey Jr retires. Earlier this week, one of baseball's legendary players hung up his spikes. Ken Griffey Jr. called it quits at age 40. One can only wonder if Junior would have re-written most of baseball's major records had injuries not interfered with his sensational career? He was an instant hit finishing 3rd in Rookie of the Year voting back in 1989 as a young 20 year old soon to be star centerfielder. Griffey, Jr was quickly filling highlight reels with circus catches and big hits as a Seattle Mariners rookie. His game was soon to take off and comparisons to some of the greatest names ever were soon to follow. Griff finished his career with 630 home runs. Many, including myself, believe if Griff could have stayed healthy then he would be baseball's all time home run champion. Junior's injuries robbed him of over 500 games. Despite various injury ending seasons, Griff averaged 38 HR & 111 RBI's highlighted by back to back 56 HR years in 1997-98. He was a 10 time Gold Glove winner and 13 time All Star. One of his greatest personal moments might never be duplicated again. On September 14, 1990 Griffey Sr. & Jr. homered in consecutive at bats for the Mariners setting a father/son record which may stand forever. Griff is one of baseball's good guys. He will be missed.

Ubaldo Jiminez is pitching like a bionic man bringing back memories of Bob Gibson's modern day record ERA season 1.12 ERA (1968).been lights out this season. 11-1, 0.93 ERA. In 12 starts, he's allowed 2 runs 3 times, 1 run 3 times, and no runs 6 times including 2 complete game shutouts and a no hitter on April 17 vs Atlanta. Can he keep up this incredible run while pitching in the mile high air of Colorado? The all time mlb ERA record was set in 1880 by Tim Keefe (0.86). It's a stretch to believe Keefe's record will ever be touched but Gibby's is currently within range. Jiminez has quickly become the pitcher to watch whenever his name is penciled onto lineup cards. Don't miss out.

Chicago Blackhawks have one more win to go for first Stanley Cup Championship since the 1960-61 season.long time coming for Chicago hockey fans. It's not written in stone yet but the engravers are getting the Cup ready for inscription. Standing in their way is a resilient Philadelphia Flyers team which is no stranger to coming back with their backs against a wall. Philly has rebounded from huge deficits this post-season. Most notably, beating the Boston Bruins after trailing 3 games to none including a monumental comeback from down 3-1 in Game 7. Chicago has been the most well balanced NHL team during the 2009-10 season. Their 52 regular season victories were tops in Western Conference and they've faced little resistance so far in Cup play until 7th seeded Philly reeled off back to back wins in games 3 & 4. The puck drops for Game 6 in Philadelphia Wednesday night. Flyers fans will be shaking the rafters. One thing is for certain. Chicago doesn't want to play the cardiac kid Flyers in a Game 7 showdown.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

How about a round of applause for Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga and MLB umpire Jim Joyce. A pitcher denied a perfect game by a bad call at first by Joyce on what was to be the final out of the game. Today, they were shaking hands at home plate before the Tigers/Indians series finale in an ultimate display of sportsmanship. Here's a brief recap just in case you missed the news....

Public controversy continues swelling. Yesterday, Detroit Tigers starting pitcher Armando Galarraga had been perfect for 8 2/3 innings vs Cleveland Indians hitters. Not a single Indians batter had reached base. Austin Jackson had just made a spectacular running catch to keep Galarraga's perfect game bid alive. With two outs, little known Jason Donald hit a grounder wide of first. On a bang bang play, Galarraga ran from the mound to cover. He received the throw from 1B Miguel Cabrera in time for the out on a close play. However, firstbase umpire Jim Joyce blew the call. Tiger's fans went from an instant celebratory cheers to emphatic booing within seconds. No amount of arguing changed Joyce's call. Donald was safe. Galarraga's perfect game ended. Controversy over the blown call is now deepening. At least with everyone except Tiger's players and Joyce.

Most often after blown calls are ridiculed by analysts umpires hold their ground. Rarely do MLB umpires admit blowing safe and out calls. Understandably, immediately following the call, the play was disputed. Now we're hearing the replay promoters coming out claiming it's time MLB instituted official replays for close plays. No way! Isn't baseball trying to speed up games? What about human elements of baseball? Baseball isn't perfect. Allowing replays on all calls will bring the game to a standstill especially if balls and strikes are included. Baseball is imperfect. So is life. No replays other than disputed home runs is fine by me.

Back to Galarraga. What a class act. Most players would have been mouthing off after the game. While watching the game, and it's aftermath, I heard Detroit broadcasters claiming "... have you ever felt worse about winning a 1 hit shutout?" Galarraga refused to take reporters baiting ways as they attempted to get Galarraga to denounce umpire Jim Joyce. He did chime in saying Joyce blew it but failed to condemn the shaken ump.

Joyce was quick to state he blew it after watching replays. He even went the extra mile to personally apologize to Detroit's hurler after the game. Fast forward one day later to this afternoon's contest. Joyce is umpiring behind home. Galarraga brought out the lineup card. Both players exchanged handshakes. This was classic. Both are human. Joyce apologetic and deeply saddened over the events from yesterday. Galarraga a big man to accept without reservation. Life lesson's never end.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFL teams are planning strategies for the new 2010 season. Plenty of question marks remain for GM's and head coaches with training camps soon to open for business. Does New Orleans have what it takes to repeat? Is the Jets defense as good as advertised or just one personnel incident away from implosion? Is Tony Romo finally ready to become Dallas' team leader or will 2010 be just another season filled with drama in Cowboys country? How many more years will Raiders fans suffer without a respectable team?

Here's a quick long distance preview of what's in store for 2010 standings.

AFC
EAST
1) Jets - Terrifying defense, improving offense.
2) Dolphins - Punishing ground game.
3) Patriots - Never the same after spygate.
4) Bills - Who in their right mind would pay to watch Buffalo?

NORTH
1) Ravens - All they need is a WR who can catch.
2) Bengals- 2nd by default over troubled Pittsburgh.
3) Steelers - QB suspended. Ground game in trouble. Defense will spend too much time on the gridiron.
4) Browns - No signs of short or long term improvement.

SOUTH
1) Colts - AFC champs want revenge. Defense holds the keys to playoff success.
2) Titans - Came on strong when Young returned. Can Johnson rush for 2000 again?
3) Texans - Look out. Houston is becoming very strong. Running game cost them wins last year.
4) Jaguars - Has everyone thrown in the towel? Jax franchise sinking fast.

WEST
1) Chargers - Hasn't figured out key to winning playoff formula.
2) Broncos - Exciting at times. Lucky to play .500 in '10.
3) Chiefs - Might be ready to begin smart football. Still recovering from Edwards disastrous era.
4) Raiders - No coach can help this bunch of losers.

NFC
EAST
1) Giants - Health issues killed their chances in '09. New stadium, new enthusiasm.
2) Cowboys - So close yet again. Big D fans are getting used to monumental collapses.
3) Eagles - McNabb is gone. Soon, fans will wish he was back.
4) Redskins - Look out Eagles. You might get leapfrogged by McNabb's Redskins.

NORTH
1) Vikings - Most spoke of Favre's playoff interception. What about 6 fumbles including what was to be goal line game clincher?
2) Packers - Defense stands between good and great. Which will it be in '10?
3) Bears - Expectations were too high in '09. Ditto for '10 but very, very talented team.
4) Lions - 33 wins in past 9 years. No, it's not a typo!

SOUTH
1) Saints - Champs explosive offense matures. Was D for real in '09? We'll find out soon enough.
2) Falcons - Huge let down in '09.
3) Panthers - Delhomme was horrible. Team showed promise when it was too late.
4) Bucs - 5 games scoring in single digits last year. How many this year?

WEST
1) 49ers - By default in NFL's worst division.
2) Cardinals - It's Leinart's team now.
3) Seahawks - Many believed '09 would reap positive results. West is there's if they learn to play smart football. It all begins and ends with coaching staff.
4) Rams - Past 3 seasons = 3, 2, then 1 win. Nope, they're not playing Detroit in '10. There's no hope.

There's a long way to go before NFL 2010 kicks off. Plenty of personnel decisions & changes will be make during the coming months. Obviously, this is far from any sort of final analysis. No Cinderella predictions just yet although Tennessee or Houston would rank high on long shots to bet on. More to follow when news from training camps shake out.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Bring it on! Another Celtics vs Lakers NBA Finals promises to dazzle us all. The names have changed over the years. Bill Russell, Bob Cousy, John Havlicek, Jerry West, Elgin Baylor, Dick Barnett & Wilt Chamberlain of the 1960's. Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Robert Parrish, James Worthy & Kevin McHale of the 80's. Now, going toe to toe in the Finals for the 2nd time in 3 years, a new Celtics vs Lakers era features the likes of Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, Ray Allen, Rajon Rondo, Paul Pierce, Andrew Bynum & Paul Gasol. Get ready. We're soon to witness a great series.

Boston Celtics (50-32, 12-5) - One of the NBA's most celebrated franchises. Perhaps in all of sports second only to the New York Yankees. Boston's winning ways have stood the test of time. 17 NBA Championships includes a record 8 in a row from 1959-1966. Two years ago they won their 17th in six games vs the Lakers.
The Celtics are clicking. They seem to be doing just about everything right. Pierce (19.1), Allen (16.8), Rondo (16.7) & Garnett (14.8) have been near unstoppable. C's passing game has worn out defenders. Transition offense has been one of their keys. Too many weapons to defend. Orlando was stunned at how handily they were defeated. Boston had better beware. 2010 LA defense is stingier than 2008 match up.

Los Angeles Lakers (57-25, 12-4) - 15 NBA Championships. Will they take home #16? At times, there's no finer team than LA. At other times, LA looks completely lost on the court. 100% focus and composure needs to be maintained or else this will be another Lakers team notched upon Celtics belts. Kobe (29.4) needs early support when he dishes to open players. When he's on it doesn't seem to matter if teams play double teams. Paul Gasol (20.0) seems to sink every shot (56.5%). How he plays against a stingy Boston D could very well determine LA's fate. Ron Artest (11.5) has been one game on, one game off. Complete failure at the free throw line shooting a dismal 61%. Odom, Fisher & Bynum have provided valuable defense and quite a few momentum changing baskets this post season.

Prediction: Expect to see fast and furious action. Rondo and Kobe will be pushing the ball looking for quick baskets or open lanes. Celtics own offensive edge as a team. Many weapons available if one individual has an off night. On the other hand, the Lakers have to attack the basket when Boston closes in on Bryant. They can't miss easy layups or open 12 footers. Both squads will play a spirited defense. Celtics transition offense brings it home. Raise another banner in Boston.
Celtics win in 6.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Memorial Day signals summer's beginning. Baseball is in full swing as nearly 1/3 of the season is complete. Division races seem to dictate all divisions will be hotly contested through 162 games. Many teams are surprising the baseball world. All NL East teams are sporting winning records. Tampa Bay's 32 victories are MLB's best. Division cellar dweller Baltimore is the games biggest loser (32). Complicated power rankings this week. Here's how it shakes out (top 10):

1) Tampa Bay Rays (32-15) Baseball's top team on a 3 game losing streak. Rotation and pitching has carried these guys.
2) New York Yankees (28-18) Girardi has guided a steady ship dealing with many injuries.
3) San Diego Padres (28-19) Can you believe SD has MLB's top staff? MLB best 2.85 team ERA and 9 shutouts. Opposing hitters batting only .229 (2nd best). Can this hold up during dog days of summer? Lineup getting key situational hits but ranks 26th in batting (.241) and 23rd in runs scored.
4) Philadelphia Phillies (26-19) In a cold spell. 4 game losing streak including back to back shutout losses to Mets. Is Oswalt in their future?
5) Minnesota Twins (26-20) If it wasn't for having to play the Yanks (1-4) then Twins might be sitting #2. Minnesota's dealt with many injuries since training camp and continues to win.
6) Boston Red Sox (27-21) After much turmoil in April, the Sox have turned it on in May (16-9) currently riding a 5 game hot streak. Look out, here they come.
7) Texas Rangers (26-21) Rangers are making a bid for their first division title since 1999. Rangers teams usually fade in smothering 100 degree summer Texas heat. If ever a team needed Roy Oswalt.. this is it.
8) Toronto Blue Jays (27-22) No Halladay? No problem. Instead, batters are destroying baseball's. #1 in runs (255), doubles (119), homers (79) & slugging (.461).
9) Los Angeles Dodgers (26-20) LA's injury list keeps growing. Torre working wonders to keep them winning.
10) Cincinnati Reds (27-20) Dusty Baker has these guys playing energized ball. No question they can hit. 23rd ranked pitching staff (4.51) might mean Cincy's hold of 1st place can't last much longer.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Chicago Blackhawks vs Philadelphia Flyers. Get ready for a hard hitting Stanley Cup Finals. These teams are red hot heading into Gane 1. Chicago knocked off the Predators (4-2) and Coyotes (4-2) before clobbering San Jose in four straight to reach the finals. Philadelphia stunned opening round opponent New Jersey in 5. Boston was next blew a 3 games to none lead before Philly stormed back including overcoming a 3-0 deficit in Game 7. Riding a new high the 7th ranked Flyers disposed of #8 Montreal in 5.

Breaking it down.

Chicago enters the Finals trying to wipe out a 49 year Cup drought. This is just the squad to do it. On offense it's been a complete team effort. Eight different players scored 17 or more goals and four handed out 40 or more assists. Team theme play continuing on full throttle. Dustin Byfugien netted 8. Jonathan Toews leads all Playoff scorers with 26 points (7 G, 19 A). Five players have 9 or more assists. How can Philadelphia match up? They can't. The Blackhawks will continue applying pressure. This time they take aim at Flyers net minders. Between the pipes for Chicago has been a red hot Antti Nemi (12-4, 2.33 - 2 shutouts). 2009-10 Chicago Blackhawks represents best squad in recent franchise memory.

Philadelphia seems to take advantage of every little mistake. Most had these guys left for dead after falling behind Boston 3-0. Never say die Flyers are rolling. Not many gave them any shot against the Devils. Even less vs Boston. Many are now wondering after they eliminated cinderella Montreal. Statistically, Philly's regular season individual totals didn't turn any heads. Mike Richards (31 G, 31 A) and Jeff Carter (33 G, 28A) led the attack with only netted 236 goals. What is turning heads has been the stellar performance turned in by understudy goalie Michael Leighton. Leighton has been a gem. 8-1 sporting a 1.45 goals against average. He's the key. If able to stop Chicago onslaughts??? Anything is possible. The Flyers rely on physical play from pounding hits on the boards to disrupting center ice play. Clean crisp passing and puck protection represent the biggest musts for the Flyers to prevail.

Prediction: Chicago's plan is to bring aggressive play by all lines into the Flyers zone. Philadelphia hopes jarring hits and mid ice pickoffs are enough to throw the Blackhawks off their game. Leighton has been nearly impossible to beat in net. Chicago will certainly test his nerve. 'Hawks too strong and well balanced for Philly to handle.
Chicago in 5!

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFL Commissioner Goodell officially announced the New Meadowlands Stadium has been selected as host venue for Super Bowl XLVIII. The 2014 will be the league's first Super Bowl in an outdoor stadium in a cold weather city. There were four rounds of secret balloting before the hosting city was selected. New Jersey beat out Tampa Bay and Miami.

Let the debate rage. Critics and supporters have begun feasting on today's news. There's good and shady swirling around the 2014 game. Time to take a look at all sides. First up, there's a standing NFL 50 degree rule stating no Super Bowl will be awarded to a city averaging colder than 50 degree winter temperatures (unless indoors). So why the exception? It's been reported often, except in the official SB award press releases, Commissioner Goodell has lobbied for the NY/NJ venue. No direct finger pointing has come from Tampa owners but it's very clear Goodell's influence played a role in the final decision. Perhaps even a little arm twisting. Why? For generations both Giants and Jets season tickets had been sold out. There were thousands of names on season ticket waiting lists. Often times, season ticket holders assigned (gifted) their seats in last will and testaments. A not so funny thing happened when Giants and Jets team owners announced building the New Meadowlands Stadium. PSL's were put into place. PSL stands for "personal seat license" which is a one time purchase which gives the fan a right to buy season tickets (plus, season ticket costs). For Giants fans PSL's range from $1,000 to $20,000. Jets fans have to fork over $4,000 to $30,000. Both teams are experiencing extreme difficulty selling season tickets (especially in today's economy). Rumor has it Goodell's intervention is an attempt to help the Giants and Jets sell remaining PSL's & season tickets. How much of a consideration this had on awarding SB XLVII the public will probably never know.

"Under normal circumstances, we probably would have walked away with the trophy," said Sandy MacKinnon of the Tampa Bay Super Bowl bid committee. "But the NFL was interested in making history with New York City and a new stadium. I think the odds were stacked against the traditional sunshine climate."

On the upside. Is it really a big deal if two teams compete for the NFL Championship in less than optimal weather conditions? No. Afterall, this is the NFL. The battle of the gridiron. Sports biggest stage. It's disconcerting hearing NFL guru's complaining of potentially cold or wet game conditions. This is the NFL. Previous Super Bowls have been predicated around warm or perfect weather conditions. Many seem to forget, before Super Bowls, Championship games were played in many less than perfect settings. That's football. Brutal cold Championships hosted in Green Bay, Chicago, Baltimore & New York. It's only fitting football's grand game is played on the world's biggest stage. Projected revenues for the New York, New Jersey area expected to exceed $550 million for the local economy represent a shot in the arm for a city in steep economic turmoil. It's high time the Super Bowl could be played in less than perfect weather conditions. Bringing the game to a new venue is a great move. SB XLVIII in 2014 will be played in the backyard of the world's media capital.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

There's never a lull in sports news. Here are just a few events from the past week. Many of you have email All World All Sports seeking our comments. Thank you for participating. This edition is dedicated to your submissions.

Mark Cuban The Dallas Mavericks owner continues to lock horns with NBA brass. Cuban has paid upwards of $500,000 in NBA levied fines. He got knocked again last week. This time to the tune of $100,000.00 for rules violation of tampering with soon to be free agent LeBron James. Picking up on quotes from various news sources: "The outspoken billionaire, in an interview this week with CNNMoney.com, said "anybody" would be interested in James. Cuban said it would be tough to sign the two-time defending league MVP in free agency, but a sign-and-trade deal with Cleveland is something he would look at." Yes, this simple statement was considered tampering. Cuban's no fool. He knew this little statement would justify league action. What it really accomplished was to send James a signal Dallas is very interested. Perhaps it was simply a scheme to plant a subliminal thought in James mind when he starts evaluating future teams? $100,000 is a hefty sum to most but barely a parking ticket to a billionaire.

Houston Astros Roy Oswalt wants a trade. The question of this moment is which team will step up? Oswalt wants to play for a contender. In all likelihood, Houston will demand future top rated talent in return for a potential Hall of Fame hurler. As of now, Houston's public stance has denied attempting to trade their most popular player after reports surfaced Oswalt's agent politely advised of his willing to drop a contractual non-trade clause. The best fits for Roy?
1) Minnesota hits a grand slam if they're able to make a deal. They sit in perfect position in cash and talent. Oswalt pitching to Joe Mauer would be create baseball's best pitcher/catcher tandem. 2) Yankees and Red Sox always seem to be within a nose of signing the games biggest names. Boston is hurting. Specifically, Sox hurlers have been less than reliable and everyone in Boston is edgy. 3) It would be hard imagining any AL team being able to stop New York if Yankees brass nab Oswalt. NY is a real long shot. They're probably considering this one but might take a pass. Yanks have severely decimated their minor league system and are facing key injuries. 4) Division rival Cincinnati seems intent on contending in 2010. They're a young bunch rich with stocked high radar type minor leaguers. 5) Texas. Yes, the bankrupt soon to be sold Rangers seem logical. Texas minors always produce heavy hitting free swingers. There's no MLB team more in need of a dominant #1 starting pitcher. Arlington is within striking distance of Houston affording Roy close proximity to family. MLB is temporarily bailing out financially strapped Texas aiding their sale to a new ownership group which includes Nolan Ryan. If the Rangers are serious of winning a title, this presents an immediate short term shot in the arm. Attendance figures would boom during R.O. starts. No high profile starter has opted for Texas in quite a long time. 6) Phillies are contenders. If Oswalt wants to remain in NL and win then maybe this is a team worth considering. Citizen's Bank Park could be a turnoff and Philadelphia is currently experiencing one of the highest crime rates in our nation. 7) Detroit - paired with Verlander creates a tremendous playoff 1-2 to rival potential playoff foes New York or Tampa Bay. Tigers would need to be creative in determining players to give Houston without upsetting team chemistry.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Here we go again. Another athlete who tirelessly denied doing anything illegal fesses up to what everyone already knew. Cyclist Floyd Landis spent years and thousands of dollars trying to convince the world he was innocent of any wrong doing. Yesterday, Landis attempted to come clean. He now admits to using performance-enhancing drugs for most of his career as a professional road cyclist, including the race whose title he briefly held (Tour de France).

Quoting directly from According to ESPN.com (Bonnie D. Ford, May 20, 2010):

"In a lengthy telephone interview from California, Landis detailed extensive, consistent use of the red blood cell booster erythropoietin (commonly known as EPO), testosterone, human growth hormone and frequent blood transfusions, along with female hormones and a one-time experiment with insulin, during the years he rode for the U.S. Postal Service and Switzerland-based Phonak teams."

Once a liar, always a liar. Landis went about cheating from day 1 as an amateur. Landis, in true cowardly fashion, is now practicing diversionary tactics. He's naming names to shift the spotlight. Ford's article further claims Landis is... "implicating dozens of other athletes, including seven-time Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong; team management and owners; and officials of the sport's national and international governing bodies."

Lance Armstrong spent most of his career under suspicion. Now, here comes a former teammate giving him up. True or false? Does it really matter anymore? Will Armstrong be the next to fess up? I'm amazed at the depths individuals, teams, leagues and officials go to cover up bad apples. World governments are experts in these deceitful practices. Anyone listening to Obama can figure out his words never match up with bills signed into law. Corruption from sports to politics is at an all time high. Reaping in millions by fabricating false stories or covering up devious actions only to come clean telling all what was known from day 1.

So, who's next to come forward about their past? In recent years headlines entertained us with Tiger Woods, Pete Rose, Mark McGwire, Barry Bonds, Ben Roethlisberger, Gilbert Arenas and countless others. Tell me why these guys are treated as royalty?

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Philadelphia. A city rich in sports tradition. Philadelphia Eagles. Philadelphia Phillies. Philadelphia Flyers. Philadelphia 76ers. Each had their fair share of time in the sun. Each produced a long list of beloved sports heroes and championship teams. Mike Schmidt, Robin Roberts, Julius Erving, Wilbert Montgomery, Chuck Bednerick, Reggie White & Bobby Clarke are just a few. Philadelphia is famously known as "the City of Brotherly Love". That is, unless you happen to root for an opposing player.

Philly has a long history and strong reputation of hosting rogue, rowdy fans. A long list of incidents have taken place in Philadelphia hosting stadiums and arenas. Even Santa Claus was soundly booed and snowballed during an Eagles 1968 halftime show soon to be made famous around the country by Howard Cosell's national sports tv show. Car fires, fields trashed, near riots, drunken spectacles and clashes with police led city officials to create a temporary prison at Veterans Stadium during football season. Current state of affairs demonstrate police seem fed up with unruly behavior when only two weeks ago a foolish fan was tased after streaking onto the baseball diamond during a Phillies game. Most recently, during Game 1 of NHL's Eastern Conference Finals, a Montreal sportswriter's car was badly vandalized during the Flyers/Canadians contest.

What's up Philadelphia? An extremely long history of pathetic actions during sporting events continues growing. To what end? For what purpose? Just to prove drunks should always be denied entrance to games? Who cares if a visitor roots for their team and against yours? What if it was your son, sister, daughter or wife getting pummeled, robbed and victimized? It's high time city officials enact legislation dictating extreme harsh penalties resulting from public disturbances at athletic events. Cut off all alcohol sales as your citizens have proven numerous times they cannot handle drinking responsibly. Team owners should be held to task for not hiring enough security to keep everyone safe. As the saying goes, it only takes one rotten apple to ruin it for everyone else. Time to crack down hard on unsavory Philadelphia fans.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Buckle up. The Western Conference Finals start tonight. Two high flying offenses are ready for battle. Defending champion Los Angeles Lakers will shoot for their second consecutive title. A short lived turmoil was brewing as LA survived shaky early round performances. They'll need to solve a red hot Phoenix Suns squad fresh from a dominating sweep of San Antonio.

Lakers
Coach Phil Jackson needs to keep LA's top guns fresh and role players focused at all times. Kobe Bryant leads LA shooters with 26.9 points/game. KB needs to do a much better job protecting the ball (3.7 turnovers/game) while creating opportunities for his supporting cast. Paul Gasol is averaging 20.2 points on 56% shooting. Key for LA is transition defense. Mental lapses, if any, will cost them dearly. When LA is on, their tops. Obviously, they'll have to play like champions for another shot at the title.

Suns
Look out LA, the Phoenix Suns seem to be doing everything right. It's been a total team effort. Phoenix has capitalized on opponents mistakes throughout this playoff season. On offense, they've been exploding to the hoop creating opportunities on nearly every trip down the floor. Almost everyone is putting the ball through the iron. Jason Richardson (21.9 - 51%), Amare Staudmire (20.5 - 51.4%) and Steve Nash (17.8 - 51.2%) lead starters. Bench players aren't afraid to put it up either. Phoenix roster has shot 47.6% in 10 playoff games including 42% of 3 point attempts.

Prediction: Phoenix and LA like to run. Both averaging over 100 ppg. It's all about Kobe in LA. Lakers bench cannot be counted on. Transition defense and ball protection are two major keys to this series. Wild card key to success is stamina. Both teams will be taxed after three quarters. Phoenix bench has been clutch. LA represents a most difficult challenge. Everyone's getting the job done for sharp shooting Suns. Phoenix stuns basketball world with a huge upset. Phoenix Suns in 6.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Eastern Conference
(7) Philadelphia Flyers vs (8) Montreal Canadiens: Nobody predicted the 7th and 8th seeds would square off to represent the East. Here they are nonetheless. Both teams are coming off exciting rounds. Philadelphia trailed Boston 3 games to none in the series and 3-0 in Game 7 to stun the Bruins. Montreal went toe to toe with Pittsburgh surviving a grueling 7 game series. Key to this series relies on Montreal's ability to stop Philadelphia's flying attack and for others to find the net besides Mike Cammelleri (12 goals) and Brian Gionta (7 goals). All Flyers lines have been applying heavy pressure on opposing netminders led by Mike Richards (17 points), Danny Briere (15), Chris Pronger (11) and Claude Giruox (11). These two split the season series 2-2. Prediction: Flyers in 6

Western Conference
(1) San Jose Sharks vs (2) Chicago Blackhawks West's top two teams go head to head. Chicago took the regular season series 3-1 including two in OT. This one will go the distance. Joe Pavelski's 9 goals lead San Jose shooters who will have their hands full vs a tenacious Chicago mid ice game. Jonathan Toews has been setting up teammates (14 assists) and figures to do more of the same. All games should go down to the closing minutes. Prediction: Chicago in 7

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for intense basketball.

Orlando vs Boston promises to be a titanic Eastern Conference Finals battle. They're two very smart and physical teams not strangers to pressure basketball. Boston won it all in 2007-08 but last year their injured squad was sent packing by Orlando. The Celtics are clicking. Everyone seems to be contributing by way of clutch shooting or key steals. Rajon Rondo has been nearly impossible to slow down (17.7 PPG). When defenses converge, Rondo dishes (11 A/G) to Ray Allen (18.3), Kevin Garnett (17.1) and Paul Pierce (16.6). Kendrick Perkins has been doing a fine job clogging up the lanes (2.30 blocks/game). Can they reach the Finals? Orlando seems to have their number winning 7 of last 10.

No team has solved Orlando this playoff season. The Magic are 8-0 dominating opponents by a whopping 101.0 to 83.8 margin. Dwight Howard (15.4 PPG, 11.3 REB, 2.8 BLK) & Co. shutting down opposing players with ease. Howard has been unstoppable hitting 68% from the field. Jameer Nelson connected 52% for 20.5 points. Rachard Lewis (54%, 16.4) and Vince Carter (16.9) kept Charlotte and Atlanta searching for answers. It's been a team effort from top to bottom. Magic have set their signts on one thing and one thing only. Winning Orlando's first NBA Championship. Will a one week layover between series leave Orlando rusty? Late nights and premature partying will have dire performance consequences if Magic players took unnecessary liberties.

Series prediction:
Boston is flying high with renewed self confidence after frustrating Cleveland. They're healthy this time around and primed for revenge. Every game could go right down to the wire. Game 1 goes to Celtics as Magic struggle to sink baskets. Magic responds to wake up call by winning Game 2. Going Green? Celtics will take this memorable series in 7 hotly contested games.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

It's power ranking time. A few movers and shakers creeping up the lists while favorites take a hit. NHL Playoffs produced a few surprises. Montreal stunned Pittsburgh. Boston 3 games to none lead vs Flyers has been erased (3-3). Tigers pitchers stymied potent Yankees lineup. Celtics sticking it to LeBron and Cavs. Lakers and Magic appear headed for another showdown. Baseball's first coaching casualty is KC's Hillman who was sacked Thursday after a dismal 12-23 beginning.

The rankings...

MLB
1- Tampa Bay (24-10): AL best 104 runs against, 2nd best 189 runs scored. Rays are for real.
2- Yankees (22-12): Hiccuped losing 3 of 4 in Detroit. Banged up but too strong to fold.
3- Minnesota (22-12): Creating ways to win. Banged up all year. Gardenhire one of mlb's best field generals.
4- Philadelphia (20-15): NL's strongest lineup expecting return of Rollins. Bullpen woes continue. Sign stealing scandal swept under rug by MLB.
5- San Diego (22-12): Young roster is beginning to believe. If SD lineup could hit they'd have mlb's best record. Lights out bullpen shutting down opponents.
6- Detroit (20-15): 3 of 4 from Yanks puts Tigers in thick of Central race. Look out if hot pitching continues.
7- St Louis (20-15): Lineup not producing runs and lacks big lefty stick. They need to make a trade.
8- Texas Rangers (20-15): AL West leaders have history of wilting in summer heat. Starting pitchers need to step up.
9- Washington (19-15): That's right, looked who cracked the top 10 !!!
10-Mets (18-16): Washington and Mets in top 10! Armageddon nearing?

NBA
1- LA Lakers: Only Phoenix stands in the way of another finals appearance.
2- Orlando: Breezed into Conference Finals. They want revenge from Championship loss to Lakers.
3- Phoenix: Climbed up a few notches after sweeping Spurs. Will fall with loss to LA.
4- Boston: Looking sharp as ever. Too much talent for Cavs to handle. Can they knock off Magic?
5- Cleveland: LeBron's injury and lack of coolness from supporting cast doomed Cavs vs Celtics.
6- Atlanta: Their future is bright.
7- Dallas: When will playoff chokes end?
8- Denver: Off seasons moves loom large.
9- San Antonio: Stunned themselves with loss to Phoenix.
10-Utah: Great young team. Great coach.

NHL
1- Washington: Still tops even though they were bounced early.
2- Chicago: Soon to be Stanley Cup Champs? Or, will it be San Jose?
3- San Jose: Conference Finals vs Chicago will be better than Cup matchup.
4- Vancouver: Solid team. Great season. Couldn't get past Chicago.
5- Detroit: Hot down the stretch. Out played by SJ in semi's.
6- Pittsburgh: How did they crumble vs Montreal?
7- Phoenix: Strong team ousted by Detroit in 7.
8- New Jersey: Coach resigned after stunning playoff defeat.
9- Buffalo: Fine team folded in playoffs.
10-Los Angeles: Future seems bright.

NFL
1- New Orleans: Super Bowl Champs.
2- Indianapolis: Great draft. Beefed up defense.
3- Minnesota: Favre will be back. Immediate impact top 2 draft picks.
4- Dallas: Playoff failures point to one thing... coaching staff. Roster is very strong. No team leader.
5- NY Jets: Ryan is building defense by thuggery. Opposing players will be crying uncle by halftime. Offense will mature quickly with great field position all game long.
6- San Diego: Fine tuned roster dumping LT. Great draft. D needs to step up in '10.
7- NY Giants: Injuries doomed D in '09. Maturing WR's could have big year. OL was terrible and will rebound.
8- Green Bay: Horrible draft. Total bust. Defense holds they key to future success (or failures).
9- Atlanta: Great draft addressing pressing needs.
10-Houston: Solid draft. If both lines play better, 2010 will be Texans' best season in franchise history. Solid draft results.

PGA
1- Ernie Els
2- Phil Mickelson
3- Jim Furyk
4- Anthony Kim
5- Steve Stricker
6- Tim Clark
7- Camilo Villegas
8- Ben Crane
9- Retief Goosen
10-Robert Allenby

(MLB rankings based on records thru 6 pm, 5/13/10)

"All World All Sports"Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Will Cleveland's front office resign LeBron James before he's eligible to file for free agency on July 1? Win or lose, tonight represents a very real possibility LeBron's days in Cleveland are finished.

The Cavaliers current 5 year run is best in team history. Back to back 60+ win seasons (current), 3 semi-final appearances, one conference final appearance and one NBA Finals loss. Not a bad run. All made possible by back to back NBA MVP, LeBron James. Cavs brass were banking on at least another Conference Finals this year. Standing in their way has been a determined Boston Celtics squad completely dominating James and the Cavs.

So what happens if Boston sends Cleveland packing tonight? Are the Cavs seriously considering dumping one of the NBA's biggest stars? A huge mistake. If Cleveland fears allocating a boat load of cash for one player then they'd be wise to consider a sign and trade deal. This would afford Cleveland leverage for obtaining talent in return for the NBA's reigning MVP. Letting James leave without seeking compensation is absolute insanity.

New York Knicks fans are keeping their fingers crossed. New York has done everything possible in anticipation of LeBron declaring free agency come July 1. They've dumped high priced players, cleared salary cap room, hired new front office personnel and a coaching staff. New York sports media has employed a full court press on airwaves near and far attempting to court James. Everything from championships on Broadway to luxurious homes has been discussed. A few other players have been targeted but, it's obvious James is their prime target. Time will tell.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Major League Baseball has told the Philadelphia Phillies to stop using binocular's from their bullpen during ballgames. Wednesday night, Phillies bullpen coach Mick Billmeyer was caught on live tv peering in towards home plate.

According to an ESPN.com article "FSN Rocky Mountain, the flagship broadcaster of the Colorado Rockies, showed Billmeyer using the binoculars to peer in on Colorado catcher Miguel Olivo while the Phillies were at bat in the top of the second inning. It also showed a quick image of Phillies center fielder Shane Victorino in the dugout on the bullpen phone in the top of the second."

All teams try to steal signs flashed from dugouts, third base coaches and catchers. Crossing the line is when devices are used from binoculars, cell phones, telephones, recorders and so on. Teams who notice a pitcher tipping off pitches or coaches flashing sloppy signs should not be flagged. In the Phillies case it's quite different. They've been accused on many occasions of stealing catching signals of opposing catchers using center field camera's and now binoculars from their own bullpen. This is flat out cheating. Will MLB's Commissioners Office take any concrete action or levy fines?

Philadelphia's NL East rival NY Mets complained of Phils stealing signs back in '07. By Boston in '08. Arizona in '10. Former Phillies shortstop, coach and manager Larry Bowa fluffed off rumors of sign stealing... "That's the rumor. Now, is it proven? No." Guess what Larry? Incriminating evidence has been found.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

May 2010 has been packed with action and wide ranging sports stories. Arrests, playoff games, perfect games, taunts and tasers. Time to tackle a few eye catchers.

Lawrence Taylor was arrexted on rape charges stemming from his night with a 16 year old prostitute in upstate New York. LT's life keeps teetering on self destruction from cocaine abusing days to poor judgement. Now it's a rape rap. LT is no stranger to being arrested. So, why did LT forget one of his rights? To remain silent. LT admitted to arresting officers he paid $300 for sex but didn't realize the woman was actually an underage teenager. LT's latest drama will be played out in newspapers until its' conclusion. For more on athletes in trouble check out SportsRagePage.com

Two sports fans tasered in less than one week after creating disturbances. The first incident happened at Citizens Bank Park during a Phillies game. A moronic 17 year old teen jumped onto the field and began running. He managed to illude stadium security until a uniformed Philadelphia cop subdued the kid with a taser gun. The cop is now being investigated for excessive use of force. According to reports, the teen ignored his father's plea not to run onto the field. The rest was history. Fans should know if they're dumb enough to pull a stunt like this then expect a swift butt kicking when you're finally captured.

The second taser incident happened at The Players Championship golf event this weekend in Florida. Apparently a drunk Tiger Woods heckler refused to quiet down and soon went into another rant after being approached by St. Johns County Sheriff Deputies. When the deputies finally resorted to arresting the man he resisted and was quickly tasered. The PGA Tour commented immediately following with this statement: "The Tour's position is and has always been that anything that disrupts the competition or the enjoyment of our fans will be dealt with accordingly, as was the case today."

Does anyone remember Yankees Alex Rodriguez vs A's Dallas Braden brouhaha? It started a couple of weeks ago when ARod ran across the mound on his way back towards the Yankees dugout after being retired by the A's southpaw pitcher. Braden took exception and launched a bratty verbal tirade. Media outlets seized on this story and blew it way out of proportion. Braden's rants continued well after the game. ARod attempted to quell any further discussion by stating he didn't want "to extend his (Braden) extra 15 minutes of fame." Well guess what happened yesterday in Oakland? Braden's fame was forever extended. Dallas Braden pitched a perfect game vs Tampa Bay on Mother's Day. Braden's grandmother, who was in attendance watching her grandson's perfect gem, joined in the ARod bashing. After the perfect game grannie told ARod to "stick it". Congratulations Dallas Braden on your perfect game. Now stop whining and shut up!

Phoenix Suns finally beat San Antonio Spurs. Yes, that's right hoops fans, Phoenix beat the Spurs. San Antonio had disposed of Phoenix in four straight playoff series until Sunday. The Suns got the revenge this year by sweeping their arch rivals in a hard hitting series. It seemed like every Spurs mistake quickly turned into a Suns advantage. Don't expect much more from Phoenix in this years playoffs. Then again, never say never.

Surprise, surprise. Check out baseball's pitching leaders. Not quite a who's who of household names. American League ERA leaders are: CJ Wilson (Tex) 1.51, Phil Hughes (NYY) 1.69 and Doug Fister (Sea) 1.71. National League's top 3: Ubaldo Jiminez (Col) 0.93, Livan Hernandez (Was) 1.04 and Jaime Garcia (STL) 1.18. Hardcore baseball fans know these names well while many others have been asking "Who?" Let's see if these guys can keep up early season successes for the long haul.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

The baseball world lost two legends this week. Ernie Harwell (May 4) and Robin Roberts (May 6) have passed away. Detroit and Philadelphia fans have been recollecting and sharing their fond memories of two baseball icons.

Ernie Harwell passed away on May 4th. Harwell was the voice of baseball's Detroit Tigers for over 42 years. Sportscasters nationwide quickly praised Harwell upon learning of his death. Players, reporters and countless others have shared fond memories. Nearly all agree Hartwell was one of the games good guys. One common theme was Hartwell's ability to touch others lives by how he lived life and endless support of fellow men and women.

Philadelphia Phillies star righthander Robin Roberts died last night at 83. He was a Phillies star pitcher who helped deliver the 1950 pennant. Roberts won 20 or more games six years in a row from 1950-55 including 28-7 in 1952 (career stats). In an effort to honor Roberts, his No. 36 jersey will hang in the Phillies dugout beginning today and will remain throughout the season, both at Citizens Bank Park and on the road.

"All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

MLB 2010 All Star Game voting (sponsored by Sprint) is well underway. Arguments have been made against offering voting too early in a young season. Arguments have also been made about ballot box stuffing. Fans can cast up to 25 votes per email address online. A bit much? You be the judge.

Here's a quick list of early season stars by position.
1B (Tie) Justin Morneau (MIN) - .356 BA, 1.138 OPS, 14 XBH;
Paul Konerko (CWS) - 12 HR, 24 RBI, 1.171 OPS
2B Robinson Cano (NYY) - .371, 9 HR, 21 RBI, 1.149 OPS
3B Evan Longoria (TAM) - .347, 6 HR, 19 RBI, 1.028 OPS
SS Derek Jeter (NYY) - .321, 16 R, 20 RBI
OF Vernon Wells (TOR) - .327, 8 HR, 1.054 OPS
OF Austin Jackson (DET) - .377, .954 OPS
OF Shin-Soo Choo (CLE) - 16 RBI, .423 OBA, .891 OPS
C Joe Mauer (MIN) - .345, .906 OPS
DH Jose Guillen (KC) - .282, 7 HR, 19 RBI
SP Ubaldo Jiminez (COL) - 6-0, 0.87 ERA, 1.02 WHIP, 44 SO, 41.1 IP
CL Mariano Rivera (NYY) - 0.00 ERA, 0.56 WHIP, 7 SV

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Good grief. Here's another dumb jock incident. Hofstra University's new head basketball coach, who has yet to step on the court, has resigned in disgrace after being arrested last week on a DUI charge after falling asleep at a traffic light. Tim Welsh is now history after signing a 5 year $3M contact to replace long time head coach Tom Pecora.

Two hours after arrest, Welsh's blood alcohol level was more than double the legal .08 limit as he registered in at .18. Hofstra suspended him immediately following word of arrest on drunk driving related charges. Welsh stepped up today and did the right thing. His quick resignation affords Hofstra's athletic program ample time to search for a dignified replacement.

It's not often a coach quits before his first game (unless your Bill Belichick). Add Welsh's name to the long list of sports personalities in trouble with the law. For more names, crimes and athletic scandals visit "SportsRagePage.com"

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 NBA Playoffs are going strong. Opening round games were great to watch even though only one series went the distance. Now it's time for the Conference Semifinals. Two great matchups on paper are Cleveland vs Boston and San Antonio vs Phoenix. Anything can happen from here on in. Whichever teams capitalize most from opponents mistakes should be victorious. Predictions......

East
Cleveland over Boston in 7 - James was officially awarded his second consecutive NBA MVP Award on Sunday. James knows to become one of the all time greats now rests squarely on leading Cleveland to championship glory.
Orlando over Atlanta in 5 - Magic chasing after 1st championship. Atlanta's great season will soon end.

West
Los Angeles over Utah in 5- Kobe stepped up in Game 1 as LA almost dropped the opener. LA has generally looked great in wins and abysmal in defeat. Utah will keep up the pressure on every play.
San Antonio over Phoenix in 7 - Both teams are red hot and playing smart heads up hoops. This will be a 15 round slugfest.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

NHL Conference Quarterfinals was an action packed fan thrill ride. There were many great games and a couple of stunning upsets. Montreal knocked out #1 seed Washington in 7 games. Washington's best regular season team in franchise history folded to pressure packed playoff hockey. Boston blindsided Buffalo in 6. New Jersey's coach Lemaire quit after a stunning 5 game defeat to rival Flyers.

Time for the Conference SemiFinal round. Pittsburgh is the East's most potent and balanced. Anything can happen in the West. Boston vs Philadelphia brings back vivid memories of their 1970's era playoff matchups. Talk about a hard hitting series from second to second. Chicago vs Vancouver back in the 70's had plenty of long penalty filled boxscores too. Let the battles continue. Prediction time (correctly picked 5 of 8 opening round games)...

Eastern Conference
Pittsburgh over Montreal in 5
Boston over Philadelphia in 6

Western Conference
Detroit over San Jose in 7
Chicago over Vancouver in 7

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

New York's (13-9) sweep of LA put the finishing touches on a 9-1 homestand. Is the Magic back? Seven consecutive victories enabled New York to climb the NL East ladder all the way to the top. Holding onto first place may be only temporary unless these guys can carry their recently created magic down to Philadelphia for a crucial early season 3 game series in Citizens Bank Park.

The Mets were left for dead by most before spring training ended. Question marks remained everywhere from the front office down to reserve players and coaches. The first dozen games left fans wondering if this team was ready to challenge 100 losses. Injuries blossomed before one game was played. One of those players hurt is starting 1B Murphy. Not a household name by any means but his bat was expected to contribute for lineup lacking left handed pop. Murphy's replacements failed miserably. The Mets didn't waste much time deciding it was time to bring up their future star firstbaseman.

Introducing Ike Davis. An instant sensation was born in Flushing. The Mets won 9 of 10. Defense has improved. Pitching improved. Offense doing just enough to win ball games. Like Ike? New Yorker's are going crazy over their new hero. In 10 games Davis is batting .355, 3 2B's, 1 HR, 6 RBI. A massive improvement over platooning Mike Jacobs (.208) and Fernando Tatis (.214).

New York's seven game streak comes at a perfect time. Red hot Mets players head to play hated division rival and co-leading Philadelphia (13-9). These teams do not like each other. Plenty of barbs traded between players on and off the field in recent years. Philly's lineup packs a mean punch. It's stacked with run producers. Phillies starters haven't settled into groves yet. Anything can happen this weekend. Will Mets magic go poof? Or, does Philadelphia have something to worry about?

Visit "All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Perhaps ambush is a mild understatement. Milwaukee Brewers hitters have destroyed Pirates pitchers this season. After only four games vs Bucs pitchers in baseball's opening month Brewers batters have piled up 53 runs. 8-1, 8-0, 20-0 in Pittsburgh. Tonight, 17-3 opening game demolition in Milwaukee. Good grief Charlie Brown!

Milwaukee owns division rival Pittsburgh. 37-12 since 2007 including 22 straight in Miller Park. Rarely has a team been this abused. The Pirates young roster has been given a strong dose on humility. It's sad for Pirates fans now lacking a reason to fill seats at PNC. Pittsburgh's front office must be stunned at April's abysmal pitching performances. Bucs hurlers are walking batters at alarming rates. 88 walks in 164 innings. Throw in 208 hits and it's amazing these guys actually won their first seven of twelve. The tide has turned. Bucs are sinking fast losing seven straight with two more in Milwaukee before heading west to play Los Angeles.

Brewers (9-10) fortunes have been plentiful vs Pittsburgh (4-0) but not good against the other NL teams (5-10). Over confidence and poor pitching led to dropping 3 straight lopsided games in Chicago after outscoring Pit 36-1. The Brew Crew heads west after Wednesday's game for a 10 game road trip to San Diego, LA and Arizona. A big test awaits against three strong staffs. Milwaukee has plenty of hype to live up to. Their west coast swing will go a long way in determining whether these guys are contenders or pretenders.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Tampa Bay owns baseball's best record (14-5). Secret to success early on in 2010 has been pitching. Staffs fairing well have led their teams to baseball's best won/loss records. The following power rankings are based on 20 games played, not projections.

1- Tampa Bay (14-5) - Doing nearly everything right.
2- NY Yankees (13-6) - AL's best lineup and stellar pitching.
3- Minnesota (13-6) - Finding ways to win.
4- Philadelphia (11-7) - NL's top lineup saving inconsistant pitching.
5- Oakland (12-8) - AL's biggest surprises led by 2.93 staff ERA.
6- San Francisco (10-8) - Lincecum working on 3rd consecutive Cy Young.
7- San Diego (11-7) - NL's biggest surprise led by 2.87 staff ERA.
8- St Louis (11-7) - MLB best 2.72 staff ERA making up for punchless attack.
9- Colorado (10-9) - Solid overall team stats not translating into victories.
10- Cubs (9-10) - Zambrano out of rotation. Lineup scoring. Cubs starting to win.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

There's a familiar sound echoing within the friendly confines of Major League Baseball stadiums. Baseball's boo birds are back. It began on opening day in Washington when President Obama wore a Chicago White Sox hat while getting ready to throw out the season's first pitch.

Two weeks of the 2010 season is history. Unfortunately for many star players, their slow beginning is still alive and well. Accompanying their struggles has been the chorus of dissatisfied fans who show great displeasure by heckling their one time hometown heroes. Boo birds no longer reside only in hometowns. The rising success of fantasy sports can very well leave a fan in North Dakota screaming at his computer screen when David Ortiz fails to deliver.

Time for a look at early season strugglers.

Prince Fielder (MIL) was homerless and batting .226 in 13 games before connecting this afternoon. Not quite what fans had hoped for from their slugger who belted 46 in '09.

Grady Sizemore (CLE) hitting .191 isn't quite what experts expected. The good news is 5 extra base hits (3 2b, 2 3b) in 12 games.

Jon Lester (BOS) seemed to be high on most Cy Young prediction lists. He's been anything but dominant (0-2, 8.44).

Javier Vasquez (NYY) it's hard to believe the Yanks were willing to give another chance to the pitcher who was bombarded by Boston in Game 7 ALCS (2004). Javy had a career year in '09. However, 2010 looks like 2004 (1-2, 8.27). New Yankee Stadium's home run frequency will not be a friend to this fly baller.

Carlos Zambrano (CHI) has been demoted to bullpen duty after only 4 starts (1-2, 7.45). A troubling sign for the ace of the Cubs rotation. Get ready for another long year in Wrigley.

Trevor Hoffman (MIL) already credited with 2 blown saves to go with a not so sporty 12.60 ERA.

Frank Francisco (TEX) is no longer the Rangers closer. 2 opening week blown saves cost his job.

Aramis Ramirez (CHI) sports one of the lowest averages in all of baseball (.131). 21 strikeouts in 15 games is cause for concern. Maybe Zambrano can play 3B?

JD Drew (BOS) (.140) is one of many struggling Red Sox players.

David Ortiz (BOS) was once a hero in Boston. Now he's being attacked daily by Boston sportswriters after consecutive seasons of sub par April's. Homerless and .146 BA has kept boo birds active.

David Wright (NYM) is getting rough treatment in CitiField. Mired in an 8 game strikeout streak (14 in 29 AB) while runners are left stranded game after game.

Hunter Pence (HOU) proves spring training stats don't count for much. After tearing it up in March, he's lost it in April (.173)

Mark Teixeira (NYY) owns MLB's lowest batting average (.114). Yanks aren't worried yet since Teix started slowly in '09 on the way to posting AL best power numbers.

Carlos Lee (HOU) had been one of the most consistant year after year. However, 2010 has Lee baffled. 1 extra base hit, 2 walks and .145 BA. Not good for a career .290 hitter with 300+ homeruns.

Raul Ibanez (PHI) went from being '09 early MVP candidate to pure disaster at the plate. .186 to begin '10 has many wondering if his days in Philly are numbered.

Don't go pushing any panic buttons. It's conceivable most mentioned above will enjoy strong rebounds. However, from managers to fans to fantasy players, there's cause for concern even in the very early stages of April baseball.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

April is always a big month in professional sports. NBA and NHL playoffs are underway. NFL draft later this week. MLB season is gaining steam. World Cup Soccer on the horizon. There's plenty to keep even the not so active fans eye swirling. Time for another version of Random Rumblings.

NHL
How embarrassing for New York fans. Both Big Apple teams (Rangers, Islanders) failed to qualify for the playoffs. 15 of 30 NHL teams play post season hockey. Rangers troubles were well documented all season long as they failed to qualify for the first time since 2003-04 season. Local papers pointed fingers squarely at the coaching staff.

Islanders faithful always seem to think each new season offers hope for improvement. In the past 21 seasons, Islanders teams have finished higher than 4th place on only three occassions. Isles have failed to participate in playoff hockey 14 of those 21 seasons. Front office decisions have been just short of catastrophic. Making matters worse is failure of Long Islanders to approve "The Lighthouse Project". All in all, New Yorkers will have a long wait before championship hockey returns.

NBA
Local New York NBA teams (Knicks, Nets) can pal around with NHL counterparts (Rangers, Islanders) while most rivals are busy playing playoff basketball. New Jersey lost 70 of 82 games becoming one of five to post 70 losses in a season. Nets have been a terrible judge of talent and traded their stars in an effort to slash payroll. They're $23M under cap and will have plenty of opportunities to chase some of the most sought after free agents. Question is, who willingly wants to play in Newark?

Knicks were in a rebuilding year. They too have slashed payrolls. Big name potential superstar free agents will be given red carpet treatment in an effort to bring their skills to Madision Square Garden. James, Wade, Kobe are just a few names dangled in New York papers. Don't bet on it. However, one can expect the Knicks to tremendously upgrade before 2010-11 season kicks off.

Will anyone dethrone the Lakers? Not in the West as LA will return to the NBA Finals. Which East team will give LA a run for their money in the Finals? Cleveland? Orlando? Boston? Get ready for Shaq vs Kobe.

MLB
Trouble in Red Sox Nation (4-9)? David Ortiz is being raked over the coals after another slow April. He continues to struggle and Boston papers are wondering if manager Francona is giving their former World Series hero too much slack. Starting pitchers have struggled. Their new and improved defense has been flat. Scutaro (SS) has already made three errors. Catcher Martinez hasn't been able to slow down opposing base stealers (14 of 15 successful steals). Even Papelbon was torched recently. Two weeks does not make a season... normally. These aren't normal times. AL East division rival Tampa Bay (10-3) and defending champion Yankees (9-3) are red hot out of the gate. Boston could be cooked before April ends.

Ubaldo Jiminez throws Rockies first no hitter! He shut down the Braves in Atlanta April 17th. Can his performance kick start another slow opening month for one of baseball's best September teams? Time will tell. Colorado doesn't want to fall too far off the pace this season as many teams will fight to the finish for playoff honors.

NFL
Draft day is quickly approaching. Will we be treated more draft snafu's by early drafting teams. Rams, Lions, Bucs, Redskins and Chiefs own the top 5 picks. Which way will they go? All need help in most phases of the game. These teams have a recent propensity for picking disasters. Expect to see a few pre-draft trades as teams target potential signees. Isn't it amazing how cellar dwellers continue making bad decisions with early picks while upper echelon organizations continue signing key contributors in later rounds?

Rumor mill has ESPN reporting new Redskins QB Donovan McNabb would like Washington to sign free agent WR Terrell Owens. Owens and McNabb together again? Really? Shocking considering the well publicized rift between these two former Eagles teammates. Never say never although it's hard to believe first year Skins coach Mike Shanahan would open the door for a player who has a well chronicled history of disrupting team chemistry.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

It's time. The NBA Playoffs have begun. The best of the best will take dead aim at dethroning reigning champion Los Angeles Lakers. Who will be left standing when all is said and done? Lakers? Magic? Cavs? Celtics? Mavs?

Here's a quick look at how I see the first round shaking out:

West
Lakers (1) over Thunder (8) in 4
Mavericks (2) over Spurs (7) in 6
Suns (3) over Blazers (6) in 5
Nuggets (5) over Jazz (4) in 5

East
Cavs (1) over Bulls (8) in 4
Magic (2) over Hornets (7) in 4
Hawks (3) over Bucks (6) in 6
Celtics (4) over Heat (5) in 7

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

April 15, 1947 will go down as the day Jackie Robinson and the Brooklyn Dodgers forever changed the game of baseball. Today, Robinson is being honored in every major league park across our country. His #42 is the only mandatory retired uniform number in the game. Today, in honor of Jackie Robinson, every major leaguer will wear #42. Tributes and pre-game ceremonies will also mark his historic accomplishments.

The year was 1945. Brooklyn Dodgers President and visionary Branch Rickey was actively scouting Negro League players. Jackie Robinson was discovered while playing for the Kansas City Monarchs. After numerous investigative background checks Rickey and Robinson met. According to various reports, Rickey grilled Robinson to test his toughness on many levels, including how he reacted to racial taunts. On August 25, 1945 Robinson was signed to a minor contract. After a stellar season in Montreal it was soon announced he would be promoted to the major league Dodgers club as the first African American baseball player.

Mixed reactions within our country soon followed. Segregation and racial discrimination were very much alive and kicking in those days. Robinson soon received numerous death threats. Often times being treated as less then human when refused admission to restaurants and hotels while enduring racial epitaphs directed at his family and culture. There were a few Brooklyn players who protested Robinson's signing. Branch Rickey laid down the law stating Jackie was here to stay. Rickey had also made clear to Robinson, how he wanted a player strong enough to handle the harsh treatment JR would receive as the leagues first African American player. Robinson responded admirably while enduring harsh reactions early in his career.

None of us could possibly fathom what it was like for Mr. Robinson. Enduring hate mail day after day, crowd jeers, racial divide, teammates not associating with him etc. It was a much different world in those days. And thru it all Jackie excelled (see Robinson's Major League stats from www.baseball-reference.com). Perhaps it was his excellence on the baseball diamond which finally won over most of his team, fans, and respect by Americans. Jackie was a star, patriot and top rate human being.

His first season was a smashing success as he was named Rookie of the Year while helping his Dodgers capture the National League Pennant. In 1949, he was selected Most Valuable Player as he won batting title honors with a .342 average. Robinson's Dodgers played in six World Series during his ten year career. He quickly became an American hero and offered hope to many young African American players around our country.

Robinson paved the way for future African American athletes... and perhaps too... players of all denominations. April 15th will always be honored each season by Major League Baseball and rightfully so. Integration into professional sports and the American way of life was long overdue by 1947. We are all created as equals ... yet, something happened along the way in our nation a very long time ago which created deep rooted hatred of our fellow man. It took many years for racial divides to be overcome and in some walks of life racism still exists today.

Jackie Robinson Day should be viewed for more than just breaking the color barrier in baseball. He should be honored for opening eyes of society, paving the way for future generations, and for what great men are made of by overcoming adversity while striving for success.

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Another great NHL season is now history. It's Playoff time! Washington dominated regular season play posting a franchise best 54 wins. They're the odds on favorite heading in. Never count out Martin Brodeur and his NJ Devils NHL stingiest defense. Chicago finished one win from best in the West. Has their time come?

Here's my 1st round predictions...

Eastern Conference
Washington (1) over Montreal (8) in 5
New Jersey (2) over Philadelphia in 5
Boston (7) over Buffalo (3) in 7
Pittsburgh (4) over Ottawa (5) in 6

Western Conference
San Jose (1) over Colorado (8) in 5
Chicago (2) over Nashville (7) in 5
Los Angeles (6) over Vancouver (3) in 6
Detroit (5) over Phoenix (4) in 7

"All World All Sports" Home Page

-Digger's Daily-

Target Field. Baseball's newest stadium officially opened for games today. Minnesota fans are thrilled. Twins ownership went all out and built a beauty. Players new and old, coaches, fans, management, broadcasters and baseball enthusiasts are all giving Target Field rave reviews.

This is how it's supposed to be done. New York Mets owners take notice. Mets might have built a revenue stream. CitiField is far from a "Mets" home park. The Twins build a shrine for Minnesota baseball centering on team history and fan friendly atmosphere. Twin Cities themed foods for quick and easy to gourmet. Spectular action statues honoring Hall of Fame greats Rod Carew, Harmon Killebrew & Kirby Puckett. An outdoor, true baseball field. Minnesota fans laugh at the thought of weather being too cold for baseball. Twins relics and artifacts everywhere from original team logo's to player portraits. Playing surface is adopted towards team strengths and is a true field as compared to tiny parks in Cincinnati & Philadelphia. Target Field is a true gem inside and out.

One day in the not too distant future I will make a special trip to watch a Twins game. Target Field is a must!

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Chalk one up for the good guy! Phil Mickelson was superb this weekend winning Green Jacket number three. Phil's wife Amy has been valiantly battling breast cancer for many months. He's been by her side all the way. Most mortals would fold under pressure of the masters and personal outside influences of greatest magnitude. Not Phil. His concentration was unbreakable.

On Saturday, Mickelson had a stretch of eagle-eagle-birdie immediately taking dead aim at the leader board. On Sunday, he played gutsy golf attacking greens all the way down the stretch. Hole #13 went from near implosion to spectacular triump. With a 2-shot lead, he was stuck between two Georgia pines and had just over 200 yards to the hole. He sent a wicked smash to within feet of the cup. The gallery erupted on 18 when he tapped in to win. Phil was soon embracing his wife as he headed off 18.

"It's been such an incredible week, an emotional week," Mickelson said. "And to cap it off with a victory is something I can't put into words. It's something we'll share for the rest of our lives."

Isn't it amazing. Here's a feel good story of a husband and wife very much in love facing a tragedy no one can possibly understand without living through. He's stuck by her and her always by him. Never a negative word by fellow golfers or written in papers when it comes to the Mickelson's. So how is it Tiger Woods gets all of the attention? The press was so hot on his trail hanging on Wood's every move. So much so tv mic's picked up a mini anger outburst and blew the story into headlines. In the meantime, Phil was steadily gaining steam.

Way to go Phil!

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Babe Ruth. Joe DiMaggio. Mickey Mantle. Whitey Ford. Ron Guidry. Thurman Munson. The New York Yankees are sports most storied and successful franchise. 2010 marks a new accomplishment for the record books.

For the first time in major professional sports history (MLB, NBA, NFL, NHL) a trio of teammates have now played together for 16 consecutive seasons. Derek Jeter, Jorge Posada & Mariano Rivera. In today's age of free agency and players changing teams at the drop of a hat, this is quite an accomplishment. Had the Yanks not let Andy Pettitte go play for Houston, this trio would have been a quartet.

Yankees baseball is full of tremendous records. Joe D's 56 game hitting streak. Babe's 60 home run season (he hit more than the rest of AL combined). Maris' 61. 27 Championships.

Love 'em or hate' em, there's never been anything on the scale of Yankees baseball.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 FIFA World Cup will be held in South Africa this summer. The world's best players will go head to head representing their respective homelands. Eight groups consisting of four teams/group will compete for superiority... and of course... the World Cup.

Unfortunately, it seems as though the war on terror will soon focus on Cup matches. England vs USA match scheduled for June 12th has been directly targeted by an online contributor to a militant website. Various unconfirmed reports site different potential groups responsible for the posting. I'm not an investigative journalist so no point in mentioning a rumor of an individual claiming responsibility of this magnitude without being able to back it up. However, the threat was real. South Africa, England and United States officials are busy beefing up security training and infrastructure for the match.

American's here at home often take safety for granted. Most are immune from how people live in different corners of the world. Asia, Middle East, South America, Europe. People of the world know full well terror can strike at any momnent. Hopefully, terror groups will never strike on our soil ever again. Unfortunately, unthinkable as it might be, September 11th is a distant memory to many here at home while terror activities continue thriving abroad. And now, a World Cup match is suddenly on full alert.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Season after season NFL fans have heard all the rumors claiming Donovan McNabb was about to be traded. Rumors, bloggers and various speaking heads had speculated of this day for years. Well, after 11 years of high's and low's, Philadelphia finally parted company with one of the franchises most popular players. On paper, McNabb's statistics seem impressive. 82-45-1 record, 32,873 yards on 59% completions, 216 TD vs 100 INT, 3,249 career rushing yards (5.7 average). The one glaring ommission... and NFL Super Bowl Championship for a city that hates to lose.

Perhaps it's time for the Eagles to find a new path. My biggest question isn't why was McNabb traded? Put in simplest of terms... why trade McNabb to a division rival??? There's no good reason for this. NFL teams far and wide would clearly line up for his services. Now, McNabb will not only get to play against his former team... he'll probably beat them too. He brings more to Washington than talent. He has a wealth of knowledge when it comes to education his new coaches about their division rival. He knows their defense inside and out. Offensive tendencies inside and out. Trading McNabb will be debated in Philly for years. Trading McNabb to arch rival Washington has been lambasted from cover to cover.

Washington gains something they have not had for years. A real NFL quarterback. Lack of a leader under center has taken its' toll on this once proud franchise. New Head Coach Mike Shanahan was all smiles after landing McNabb. He has an All Pro QB and can now focus attention on refining draft day strategies. Shanahan will certainly revamp a floundering Skins offense and he has a near perfect weapon to get things rolling. Look for many Washington changes approaching draft day. Not much work needs to be done to turn this group of underachievers into winners. Philadelphia fans will soon regret the day Donovan was traded. As the old saying goes, be careful what you wish for!

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Another thrilling NCAA basketball season has concluded. Duke held on for a last second 61-59 victory over cinderella fan favorite Butler. Fitting ending for college basketball's winningest team over the past two seasons (65 wins). Coach Krzyzewski now has won four National Championships. It doesn't get much better for Duke fans. The celebration continues for one of our nations greatest collegiate basketball programs.

How about those Huskies !?! Here's a few quick highlights of perhaps the most dominating team ever. Back to back National Champions. 78 consecutive wins. 4 undefeated seasons. 28 straight wins vs ranked teams. 34.9 point average margin of victory. 34 Big East titles. 17 Sweet 16's. 11 Final Fours.

UConn exhibited never before witnessed dominance by destroying nearly every foe during their 78 game streak of ages. Until.... they found themselves trailing at halftime vs Stanford's spirited game plan. UConn was not to be denied as they stormed back for a convincing 53-47 victory. If you haven't watched these women play you've missed out.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Mets fans should start considering enlisting the entire month of April, not just calendar day one, as April Fool's. Last year, their much anticipated brand new home (CitiField) was ripped to shreads by Mets enthusiasts and local pundits. Soon thereafter, all hopes of returning to playoff baseball crash landed when half of New York's key contributors were lost to injury.

Most New Yorker's were glad when the season ended. There was plenty of talk surrounding potential free agent and/or trade acquisitions. Jason Bay was much sought after in free agency. Mets got lucky when he decided to sign (most of us are still wondering why he chose a losing team over winners?). Not much else was done to fix huge gaping holes on this club. The front office under GM Moniya has been a complete embarrassment. Lack of trades and complete free agent washouts has dominated Moniya's tenure. Throw in an inter-organizational rift between major & minor league clubs to boot. It's amazing how this guy still has a top position.

Now here we are and deja vu sets in on April 1. Lost at least a month due to injury is starting 1B Murphy. Who, you ask? That's right, NY has settled on defenseless, powerless Murphy over free agents and potential trades. Starting SS Jose Reyes has been babied to the point of insanity. He's only started playing/practicing and will also begin 2010 on the DL. Starting CF Carlos Beltran will miss all of April and probably most of May. Even when he returns, it's doubtful he can contribute at full speed.

New York Mets ownership hasn't been smart of late. One might even suggest sending the top honcho's into a corner wearing nothing more than pointy hats until someone explains how to maintain a "respectable" franchise. Don't forget, they were 1 strike away from playing in the 2005 World Series. It's been a downhill spiral ever since. Mets failures have been systemic. One can argue until blue in the face over individual personnel moves from players to executives. This is not the subject of my point today.

April Fool's is here again as the Mets continue failing to field a team best suited for their new nearly $1,000,000,000.00 anything but a Mets themed home stadium. Look at playing dimensions and then take a peak and tell me which lefty hits for power? None. Pepsi Porch may look great on tv. Most likely the only players hitting long home runs to Pepsi will be opposing batters. Opposing pitchers might have an easy go hurling against an extremely low OBA oriented lineup. Mets will probably finish '10 dead last in OBA.

Now, most of us know the secret to success is having a serviceable starting rotation. Johan Santana has been one of baseball's best for nearly 10 years. He's New York's only potential bright spot. The rest are flat out awful. Perhaps the majors worst starting rotation? Spring training is rarely used as a barometer of things to come unless it relates directly to players recovering from injury. Plenty of Mets hurlers are trying to regain their old form. It hasn't worked out too well as NY has a collective 5.00+ team era. John Maine, Mike Pelfrey & Oliver Perez are starters 2-4. Not one of them has an era under 7. That's no typo. None under "seven". Even Santana's been getting lit up (6.75). Do the math. On paper, Mets have a one in five shot of victory per five games (Santana). How ugly is that?

Buy plenty of brown paper bags Mets fans. Better yet, break out those Yankee hats. 2010 Mets baseball already reminds me of their early 1960's losers. It's going to be an extremely long & comical year.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 is a new season. Thousands of baseball fans have drafted their teams. Thousands more are preparing for their soon to be held drafts. "Sleepers" are often referred to as overlooked or undervalued players. Rookies with huge upside potential, players ready to have a break out year or players returning from injury all qualify. Much talk has centered around four rookies. I've compiled a list of players who usually fly under the radar in early draft rounds. I rarely recommend searching out sleepers when proven heavy OPS players remain plentiful. However, sleepers can be great mid-round picks depending on league format and current draft status/needs.

Jason Heyward (Atl) - Much talked about this preseason. His stature reminds me of a young Dave Parker. Great upside. Will have plenty of hot/cold streaks but should offer plenty of power potential.

Austin Jackson (Det) - I'm a big fan of Jackson's. Tigers spacious surroundings could prove challenging. He seems level headed and could tear it up on home games with 2B's, 3B's while saving his power stroke for road games. Quickly maturing 5 tool player.

Alcides Escobar (Mil) - Brewers are high on their shortstop of the future. I haven't watched him play a single inning so it's hard to comment. He's a stretch for offensive production in my book but is worth a shot in keeper style leagues.

Kyle Blanks (SD) - Effortless swing and packs a mean punch. Defense needs fine tuning. Offense will be plentiful.

Ian Kennedy (AZ) - He's ready and I'm expecting a big year from Kennedy in Arizona. He's made their rotation after an outstanding spring campaign. Untouchable when he's on.

Tim Hudson (Atl) - Not being drafted high in most leagues. Hudson's back and ready for a big season. K totals might not turn heads but sub 3.00 will. Key cog in Braves rotation.

Chris Young (AZ) - Struggled miserably in '09 and fell off most manager's radar. Not mine. He's matured and will enjoy his best big league season.

Hunter Pence (Hou) - Hardly a sleeper. Pence qualifies as a career year type player. 40+ doubles, 30+ homers.

Colby Rasmus (StL) - Should show steady improvement in sophmore season.

Geovany Soto (Chi) - Cubs backstop had a great rookie year in '08. Suffered thru injury plagued '09. Healthy and ready for '10 could finish in top 5 fantasy point producing catchers.

Grady Sizemore (Cle) - Get ready for a comeback player of the year style season. He might even make a run at MVP honors. Sizemore is tearing it up in pre-season which is a clear indication he's ready to go.

Ian Desmond (Was) - Nationals are high on young future star SS Desmond. So am I. He has all the tools... and won starting nod this spring as everyday SS.

Matt Wieters (Bal) - Everyone in Baltimore loves this guy. He's going to have a crash course in AL East baseball learning to handle a young pitching staff while taking swings against the AL's top rotations. He's an unknown commodity who might produce. He seems to be going way too high over proven talent in most drafts. Buyer beware.

Marlon Byrd (Chi) - I think a monster season is ready to be had by Byrd. Many things in his favor. A great hitters home park. Great hitters division. Not so hot opposing staffs loaded with lefties. Byrd has a mixed clubhouse rep. He'll be great if playing with a cool head. Same was said of Milton Bradley heading into '09. Difference is Byrd's much better player.

Billy Wagner (Atl) - Potential 40 save season and Braves first true closer in recent memory. Health is always an issue. He looks better than ever. Phils have competition.

Will Venable (SD) - Sleeper pick. He's been red hot this spring. Solid minor league stats. Shown consistent improvement at every level including majors. Key cog in Padres attack will produce. 35+ doubles, 20+ homers, .280+ BA all within reach.

Drew Stubbs (Cin) - Reds leadoff hitter might smack 25 - 30 round trippers in cozy Cincinnati. This kid's for real but needs to cut down on wild strikeouts.

Teams
My crystal ball tells me only one team fits a true potential sleeper squad. In 5 of 6 divisions it's hard to imagine a weaker squad conquering tough rivals for the title. Then, there's the NL West. Meet the San Diego Padres. Personally, I have them pegged last in NL West. However, there's tremendous upside here for San Diego. They possess a solid batting lineup and excellent bullpen. Success or failure rests on the shoulders of starting pitchers. Garland, Young, Correia, Lantos, Richard. Who? They don't put fear into anyone. Precisely what makes them dangerous. Lineup has 3 rising stars to compliment Andrian Gonzalez' power. Kyle Blanks, Will Venable and Chase Headley. Bench depth is deepest in West. Jerry Hairston, Scott Hairston, Oscar Salazar & Matt Stairs. Padres have had a taste of winning too by way of a current 14 game spring streak. This has to be a confidence builder. Keep an eye on these guys.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

National League
East
Philadelphia Phillies
Atlanta Braves*
Florida Marlins
Washington Nationals
New York Mets

Reigning back to back NL Champs Phillies take aim for their third consecutive World Series appearance. They bulked up by getting Roy Halladay and Placido Polanco. Bullpen problems still linger and could cost the Phils a shot at repeating in NL East. Look out for the Braves. It's Bobby Cox final season at the helm. Atlanta is healthy, wealthy and wise. Will it translate into diamond victories? Florida continues to amaze but don't have enough guns to win a title. Washington will play their first inspired brand of baseball since long before leaving Montreal. The Mets? Their pitching is terrible. Starters (minus Santana) will have trouble getting to the 5th. Middle inning bullpen still shaky. Lineup is mostly all right handed, Beltran injured again, Reyes new health concerns, no bonified big league 1B and a home park which helps everyone but Mets players. Watch out for 100+ loss season as all Mets personnel gets run out of town.

Central
Cincinnati Reds
Chicago Cubs
St. Louis Cardinals
Milwaukee Brewers
Houston Astros
Pittsburgh Pirates

Toughest division in baseball to handicap. There's no pure powerhouse club. All have two solid starters (minus Pittsburgh). All have similar style lineups, defense and bullpens. Reds handicap is their ill conceived home park which plays like a glorified little league field. Milwaukee's sporting 2 lefty starters which could get walloped vs predominant right handed power lineups. Cubs are 100 years plus without a championship are no closer. Cards 2009 success was a big surprise to most. NL Central is up for grabs.

West
Colorado Rockies
Los Angeles Dodgers
San Francisco Giants
Arizona Diamondbacks
San Diego Padres

It's time for Colorado to begin winning in April instead of waiting for late August. Rockies young hurlers and heavy lumber will nail down the West. LA has heavy lumber in OF but rotation doesn't strike fear into rivals. Giants are just the opposite. Rotation shreds bats but hitters don't match up well with most other MLB teams. Arizona could be a sleeper team so don't turn your back too quickly. They have pitching & hitting. Defense needs to step it up or it could be a long season. San Diego has quickly transformed into one of NL's worst after near misses only 3 years ago.

NL Champs: Philadelphia Phillies
Batting: Placido Polanco (.333)
HR: Ryan Howard (46)
RBI: Ryan Howard (144)
SB: Michael Bourn (53)
Wins: Roy Halladay (25)
ERA: Tim Hudson (2.38)
Saves: Jonathan Broxton (40)
MVP: Hanley Ramirez
Cy Young: Tim Hudson
Rookie: Jayson Heywood

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 will treat us to another thrilling baseball season. A handful of teams were very busy this off season refining their rosters in an attempt to dethrone the champion Yankees. Many teams should be considered contenders to win their respective leagues. Time to fast forward and gaze into my crystal ball. Here's my final predictions for 2010...

American League
East
New York Yankees
Boston Red Sox*
Tampa Bay Rays
Baltimore Orioles
Toronto Blue Jays

Yanks and Red Sox will battle wire to wire. Yanks 1-4 rotation their best of the decade. Lineup has 2 new faces (Granderson, Nick Johnson). Bench depth, which was always a NY strength, is now missing. Sox lineup missing big time power hitters but these guys will continue scoring runs in bunches behind a sharp rotation and deep bench. Don't be surprised to see them as division chams. Pitching was key to Tampa's World Series run and has been missing since. Great young team with competitive rotation might get snake bit again by faultering pen. Baltimore is beginning to make great strides attempting return to respectability. Toronto is a team in reverse. One time future stars have gone bust and pitching staff is one of AL's weakest.

Central
Chicago White Sox
Minnesota Twins
Detroit Tigers
Kansas City Royals
Cleveland Indians

Chicago has what it takes on paper. Question is, can they stay healthy enough to reach the promised land? Everyone in their lineup will contribute and pitching staff has never been better. There will be plenty of excitement in Minnesota as the Twins open their new outdoor stadium. The loss of closer Joe Nathan to season ending injury essentially derails division title dreams. Detroit choked last season and changed a few faces for 2010. Pitching and lack of power might keep them stiffled in the middle of the pack. Kansas City's strength is pitching. Difference between winning and losing is run production which has been lacking from Royals hitters for years. Cleveland has potential future talent but this franchise was mortgaged years ago. A one time AL powerhouse gave away most of their talent and will have a hard time filling seats.

West
Los Angeles Angels
Seattle Mariners
Texas Rangers
Oakland A's

The West will be wild. It's a three team race. Seattle has an improved rotation, lineup and defense. Angels changed a few faces and parted with former playoff heroes (Lacky, Vlad). Staying healthy is key #1 for LA to win. Seattle will be hot on the trail and could end up on top. The secret to success in Texas is pitching. Why haven't they figured it out? Rotation is weaker than '09 (Millwood gone) which is a crying shame considering their explosive offense. Oakland has never looked weaker and will lose 100+.

AL Champ: Boston Red Sox
Leaders
Batting: Ichiro (.360)
HR: Alex Rodriguez (44)
RBI: Miguel Cabrera (130)
SB: Jacoby Ellsbury (65)
Wins: CC Sabathia (23)
ERA: Felix Hernandez (2.45)
Saves: Mariano Rivera (44)
MVP: Kevin Youkilis
Cy Young: CC Sabathia
Rookie: Austin Jackson

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 baseball season begins in 12 days. Teams are ready to make final cuts in preparation for another thrilling year of wire to wire action. I've assembled a short list of players to watch based on players in contract years, young talent, players who had off years in '09 and players who might have a hard time reproducing last years success. My players to watch.....

On the Rise?
1B - Kendry Morales (LAA) Lit up AL pitching in his first full season (.306, 34 HR). He's the main man heading into '10 and is currently tearing up Cactus League pitchers.
2B- Martin Prado (ATL) - .307 career hitter in 258 games appears to get better every step of the way. Could be a breakout season on the way?
3B (2) - Brandon Wood (LAA) - Gets first crack at everyday 3B duties for Scioscia's Angels. He needs to produce at the plate to remain a starter. Has struggled with big league pitching in 224 career AB's. Gordon Beckham (CWS) - The future is now for ChiSox promising young 3B. He had a fine showing last year and should put up pretty solid numbers on the South Side.
SS (2)- Alcides Escobar (MIL) - He's been recipient of rave reviews and all seem convinced he's ready to handle the rigors of 162. Great upside if he lives up to hype. Ian Desmond (WAS) - Look out. He's on the verge of winning the starting nod over veteran Guzman. This guy has serious range and can hit. It won't be long before he's Washington's full time starting SS.
LF- Nelson Cruz (TEX) - Might open up in RF over LF but for purposes of this post he's in left. Tearing up Cactus pitchers (1.283 OPS) after rocking 33 HR's in only 128 '09 games. Hitters friendly Texas offers room for tremendous numbers in '10.
CF- Austin Jackson (DET) - The Yankees will soon regret trading Jackson. He's a future star. New York has been famous for developing star CF's (Dimaggio, Mantle, Williams). They really goofed trading him for Granderson. Grandy's dandy but Jackson is a 5 tool real deal.
RF- Jayson Heywood (ATL) - Reminds me of Dave Parker. Imposing figure. Big time hitter hasn't had any problems with his first dose of major league pitching. Braves RF job is his. Rookie of the Year candidate.
C- Matt Wieters (BAL) - A huge load has been placed Baltimore's future star and he'll be learning on the job. Don't expect much this year in fantasy value. If he can settle down an erratic O's staff then good days are coming.
SP- JA Happ (PHI) - 12-4, 2.83 in '09 during his first full campaign. He looks locked and loaded early this spring. Potential 20 game winner should nail down no less than 15 this year.

Contracts, Comebacks or Tough to Repeat:
1B- Troy Glaus (ATL) - Comeback Player of the Year candidate. Can Glaus chip in and give the Braves a good year offensively? It'll be his first in Atlanta and first as a full time 1B. If he can contribute then look out for the Braves.
2B (2)- Rickie Weeks (MIL) This is probably Weeks' last shot to prove he's in Milwaukee to stay. Injuries, lack of consistency has haunted Rickie's career. In a lineup of big bats all he has to do is get on base.
2B- Howie Kendrick (LAA) Add Kendrick to the list. Can he finally stay healthy? He's yet to play more than 105 games in 4 big league seasons. He's a .302 career hitter. Big things are expected from him in '10.
3B- David Wright (NYM) Wright's .307 2009 batting average is deceiving. He was basically horrific in clutch situations and struck out 140 times. Complete power meltdown (10 HR) no thanks to new home stadium that no one seems to like. CF walls have been lowered. Might not help with 15 footers in LF.
SS- Derek Jeter (NYY) - The Yankees captain plays in his final contract season. Most players in contract years put up tremendous numbers. DJ's concentration will be in tip top shape. Another 200 hit performance with added power numbers are well within reach.
LF (2) - Brett Gardner (NYY) - Yanks should have tried unloading Gardner in the Granderson deal instead of Austin Jackson. Or, keeping Melky? Gardner will not come close to duplicating Damon type numbers. Maybe experience is all this kid needs? Talk about a kid who needs to mature on the diamond in a hurry before Bronx boo-birds let him have it. Anything less than .275 and big time defense will have the front office looking for a trade deadline replacement. Raul Ibanez (PHI) - Began '09 as odds on favorite for NL MVP after wrecking pitching in April/May. It was a steady decline the rest of the way including .189 August. Yet he finished with 34 HR in 134 games. Stuggles continuing early in spring training. Fantasy owners beware.
CF- Jason Hamilton (TEX) Hammy wowed fans in 2008 leading the AL with 130 RBI and putting on a memorable home run smash brigade during the Home Run Hitting Contest at Yankee Stadium. Beseiged by injuries in '09, Jason is slated to shift from CF to LF. Injury bug keeps popping up. Needs to stay healthy or he could be another one hit wonder.
RF- Jason Werth (PHI) - I'm thinking he's already a potential NL MVP candidate. Bashed 36 HR's in a breakout season last year. Then went on to hit 7 more in post-season competition. Werth has arrived, plays in a hitters park and in the middle of NL's most potent lineup.
DH (2) - Ken Griffey, Jr (SEA) - Seattle fans really hope Junior can be a major force in 2010. It could be his last year. Griff's career was robbed by a variety of injuries. He'll always be regarded as one of baseball's best ever CF. Relegated to DH duties he will have plenty of opportunities to shine in M's new look lineup. As a baseball fan it would be sensational to watch Griff shine just one more time. Jason Kubel (MIN) - New expectations. New ball park. Jim Thome waiting in the wings. Had a very solid year average (.300) and power (28 HR). Balls flew off his bat last year. He'll face tougher pitching in '10.
C (2) - Joe Mauer (MIN) - 2009 AL MVP has been getting better every season. It'll be hard to top leading AL in batting average (.365), on base percentage (.444), slugging (.587) and OPS (1.031). Don't be surprised to see him challenge .400 in the not too distant future. Ryan Doumit (PIT) - It would be nice to see what kind of production Doumit can post by way of one full healthy season.
SP- Tim Lincecom (SF) - Back to back NL Cy Young having a rough spring. What's next for this young phenom? 33-12, 526 K's in past two years. Expectations are higher than ever for San Fran's ace hurler. Warning, keep an eye on his mechanics. They've been off so far this spring.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

The NFL is getting softer and softer. The rules committee often recommends amendments to how the game is played from penalties to tackles. Today we learn a new change to playoff overtime rules. Here they are:

1. Both teams must have the opportunity to possess the ball once during the extra period, unless the team that receives the opening kickoff scores a touchdown on its initial possession, in which case it is the winner.

2. If the team that possesses the ball first scores a field goal on its initial possession, the other team shall have the opportunity to possess the ball. If [that team] scores a touchdown on its possession, it is the winner. If the score is tied after [both teams have a] possession, the team next scoring by any method shall be the winner.

3. If the score is tied at the end of a 15-minute overtime period, or if [the overtime period's] initial possession has not ended, another overtime period will begin, and play will continue until a score is made, regardless of how many 15-minute periods are necessary.

I was not a fan of NHL's recent OT changes to regular season play when the shootout was introduced. I'm not against the format but find it overwhelmingly ridiculous the losing team receives one point. Now, lets take a look at the first new NFL playoff overtime rule. If a team scores a field goal on its' opening drive they must let the coin flip loser have a possession? And, if a touchdown is scored the flip loser wins?

What is going on these days? Why not just give everyone a star sticker and pack it in? Don't bother playing games if the better team cannot reap rewards of winning. NFL owners approved the new rule by a vote of 28-4. Babies! Afraid their team will lose in overtime. Football is a rough sport. Survival of the fittest. If your teams loses the overtime coin flip then they'd better come out ready to play upbeat special teams and defense... PERIOD! If you want to win then stop your opposition. Isn't this how football was always played? I don't want to hear the word "progressive" pertaining to NFL. This is absurd.

OK, to all the supporters of this new rule. If you're ok with coin flip losers getting a chance on offense if defense surrenders three points... then, are you in favor of the first team scoring a touchdown wins (opposition will not receive a possession as stated in second amended rule)?

The league is getting soft. Players are over protected. Now, losers are too.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Sports news never slows down. Not even a government showdown was big enough to calm down breaking sports news. NCAA Tourney upsets. Baseball spring training. Tiger talking (again). Where to begin?

NCAA Men's Tournament Sweet 16 begins Thursday (Regional Semi-Finals). One top dog has been eliminated (Kansas) essentially killing most of my pool entries. Knew I should have stayed with Kentucky. Keep an eye on a few Cinderella stories. South bracket has #10 St. Mary's taking out #2 Villanova. East warriors #11 Washington hammered #3 New Mexico & #12 Cornell out classed #4 Wisconsin. Syracuse vs Kentucky is now my Championship Game pick with UK taking home top prize.

Tiger Woods is talking again. "I cheated, I this, I that..." boo hoo, blah blah. Tired of Tiger? Yep. But, PGA tv ratings will soon skyrocket once again. Woods awaited return will take place at The Masters. I'm one of the curious viewers to hear how Tiger's return is received. No doubt fans will cheer like crazy. Probably a few choice geers from time to time.

Baseball news out of Minnesota is twofold. First, All Star catcher Joe Mauer landed a sweet 9 year $184M contract extension. Great move by a franchise normally unwilling to pay it's big stars big money. The Twins will be opening a new stadium in April. Revenues must be substantial with new revenue streams and luxury seating. Perhaps this is a sign of things to come? The Twins are poised to be a powerhouse club loaded with plenty of talent. Curious eyes are wondering hos they'll deal with the devastating loss of closer Joe Nathan? Will they experiment with who they have or go for a last minute spring deal? No way can they afford to give away games after division rivals Chicago and Detroit improved personnel.

What's up with Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger? Another woman comes forward with assault allegations. Public details are sketchy at best but Pittsburgh head coach Tomlin is "concerned" about Ben. NFL Commissioner is soon to weigh in after meeting with the two time Super Bowl champ. What's the deal with sports players? These guys put themselves in so many situations detrimental to their well being.

New York Rangers players heads are hanging low after losing a must win game vs Boston to save their season. Rangers offense rarely shows up after coming out of the gates with a promising 7-1 record to start the year. They're now on the verge of elimination with only a few games remaining. 23 games scoring 1 or none. It's amazing to think these guys have any chance whatsoever but it isn't over til it's over.

How about those Washington Capitals? They're destroying opponents with an explosive offense. Their 283 goals are 47 more than second best. 24 games scoring 5 or more goals. Washington is two wins shy of franchise best 50. Only 14 losses is by far their lowest team total in franchise history. They seem unstoppable. Is this the year Washington wins their first Stanley Cup? Only two teams on my radar have a legit shot at taking out the Capitals in a 7 game series (New Jersey & Pittsburgh). Smart money rides with Washington... for now.

Visit our home page "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

It's time for another power rankings session. MLB opening day inching closer. NFL teams juggling rosters. NBA & NHL teams giving it their all trying to qualify for playoff glory. PGA getting ready for Tiger's return. NCAA March Madness providing stunning upsets. It's been quite a month.

Time to rank major sports teams.

MLB
1- Yankees
2- Phillies
3- Red Sox
4- Dodgers
5- Angels
6- White Sox
7- Angels
8- Cardinals
9- Rays
10-Giants
(no changes from last PR post)

NBA
1- Cleveland
2- LA Lakers
3- Dallas
4- Orlando
5- Denver
6- Boston
7- Utah
8- Atlanta
9- Phoenix
10-San Antonio

NHL
1- Washington (best team in franchise history)
2- Chicago
3- Phoenix
4- San Jose
5- Vancouver
6- Pittsburgh
7- LA Kings
8- Colorado
9- Nashville
10-Detroit

NFL
1- New Orleans
2- Indianapolis
3- Minnesota
4- Green Bay
5- San Diego
6- Baltimore
7- Dallas
8- NY Jets
9- Philadelphia
10-Chicago

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Kansas enters the 2010 NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament as the #1 ranked team coming out of regular season play. Can they keep their magical ride going or will they be dethroned? March Madness also symbolizes the time of year when hundreds of thousands rush to fill out tournament brackets predicting winners, placing bets in Las Vegas or with local bookies and when college fans just flat out go nuts partying.

Kansas and Kentucky are the two best teams in my book. Will they meet in the finals? Not according to my bracket predictions. Here's how I pick'em from the Sweet 16 to finals.....

Sweet 16
Kansas over Michigan State
Ohio State over Georgetown
Vanderbilt over Florida State
Pittsburgh over Kansas State
Kentucky over Wisconsin
West Virginia over New Mexico
Duke over Purdue
Villanova over Baylor

Great 8
Kansas over Ohio State
Pittsburgh over Vanderbilt
Kentucky over West Virginia
Villanova over Duke

Final Four
Kansas over Pittsbugh
Villanova over Kentucky

Championship Game
Kansas over Villanova

Champions
Kansas

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

New York Giants. New York Jets. The New Meadowlands Stadium. Giants & Jets new home debuts in 2010. Cost, $1.7 billion. State of the art facility. Great field views from all seats. Jets website calls it the "New Jets Stadium". Giants website calls it the "New Giants Stadium". Both teams split construction costs and are 50/50 owners. Guess what they never decided before breaking ground? First team to host a game.

On Monday the NFL announced that a coin flip was held to determine first home host. Giants won the flip (SI.com). Jets are very upset.

"When the issue of which team would be hosting the first regular-season game could not be resolved on the merits, I suggested a coin toss as the fairest way to resolve this issue. The league rejected that idea. Then, I was told on Friday that a coin toss had taken place at the league office and that the Jets had lost. We rejected a process in which neither team was present. The league departed from our time-honored tradition and declined the opportunity to set the matter straight with a transparent process." (Woody Johnson, NY Jets owner)

NFL also announced both teams will play their season openers back to back. Giants open on Sunday and Jets Monday night. I can't help but laugh at this craziness. How does anyone cough up nearly one billion dollars without an agreement settling which team would be the first to play their home opener? It's bad enough both ownership groups agreed to keep their "New York" franchises in New Jersey after New York fought hard for their return. Jets & Giants playing in New Jersey has been a sad joke to New Yorkers for years. Now, we hear a coin flip decided first home team after ownership groups weren't able to reach a satisfactory arrangement.

Losing the first ever home opener probably doesn't matters to anyone outside of Woody Johnson. Woody shouldn't be so publicly irked now when this issue should've been settled long ago. It's the second major snafu by the Jets who for years hated playing home games in a stadium named for another. However, under the terms of the old stadium lease, changing the name of the stadium required the Giants' approval, and the Giants refused to change the name. Now, the Jets lose out on a coin flip and become miffed when flipping a coin was the Jets idea in the first place.

Personally, I'm happy to learn the Giants will host the first ever regular season game in the new stadium. Afterall, the old facility was called Giants Stadium. The Meadowlands has been home to the Giants since 1977. The Jets moved in after running away from New Yorkers & Shea Stadium in 1984.

Get over it Woody. If it meant so much then you should have negotiated a better deal before coughing up your money!

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Spring training is in high gear. Players fighting to make major league clubs are lobbying to get their numbers called. A couple of big time rookies have turned heads with great performances. Pitchers busy fine tuning mechanics in limited action. Hitter's in pursuit of "the zone". Injuries and nagging tweeks caught managers eyes too as they now must adjust accordingly. It's all part of pre-season baseball.

I thought I'd give my preliminary predictions for the upcoming 2010 MLB season. I'll be getting into detailed analysis and final fortune telling after rosters are officially announced.

AL
East: Yankees, Red Sox, Rays, Orioles, Blue Jays.
Central: White Sox, Twins, Tigers, Royals, Indians.
West: Mariners, Angels, Rangers, A's.
Wild Card: Boston or LA.
AL Champ: Yankees.
MVP: Teixeira (NY).
Cy Young: Hernandez (Sea).
Rookie: Jackson (Det).

NL
East: Phillies, Braves, Marlins, Mets, Nationals.
Central: Cubs, Cards, Reds, Brewers, Astros, Pirates.
West: Rockies, Dodgers, Giants, Diamondbacks, Padres.
Wild Card: Wide open race. Only teams not in hunt are Nats, Pirates, Padres.
NL Champ: Phils are favorites. At this moment, look out for the Rockies too.
MVP: Howard (Phi)
Cy Young: Santana (NY)
Rookie: Heyward (Atlanta)

There will be some very good ballclubs in 2010. Perhaps one of baseball's most memorable beginning to end pennant races? Great pitching in hurler heavy NL West. Mariners & Phillies caught everyone's attention with big trades. Yankees, everyone's favorite team to hate, aim to match Girardi's new uniform number 28. Pujols back is flaring up. Nathan's elbow shot for the year? Giants restocked offense hopes to put up runs for great rotation. New look and healthy armed Red Sox ready to rumble. My two cents, theories and team by team prognostications soon to follow as opening day creeps closer.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Interesting news in the world of sports never stops. Spring training is in high gear as teams take aim at regular season openers. Tiger's saga continues as he practices for what promises to be a media circus upon his return to active status. March Madness is in early stages as teams battle in conference tournaments. NBA & NHL teams busy fighting for playoffs. Retirements, injuries, rookie sensations... it's been a busy week.

Nomar Garciaparra hung up his spikes this week retiring in a Boston Red Sox uniform. Nomar exploded on the scene and was considered one of the games best SS's until injuries wrecked his career. He played during the Curse years. Interestingly enough, Boston traded Nomar mid-season of the Curse busting season. After his departure, the Red Sox win their first World Series since 1918 (2004, then again 2007). A fan favorite, he never got to enjoy Boston greatness even when producing stellar stats. Boston did grant Nomar one final wish by re-signing him this week so retirement as a member of Red Sox Nation could be fulfilled.

Pittsburgh Steelers QB Ben Roethlisberger has been accused of assaulting another woman. So far this story seems to be a bogus accussation. Nowadays, athletes had better start picking their friends and companions better. It's not the first time Ben's been linked to some sort of misconduct with female acquaintances.

March Madness is heating up as college teams are competing in Conference Tournaments. Teams on the bubble are hoping strong finishes catapult into NCAA Tournament glory. #1 seeds have had a difficult time holding onto the top spot. It's going to be a great tourney as no one team stands above the rest.

University of Connecticut Women's Basketball won their 72nd consecutive game (33-0 this season). That's right, 72 in a row! And none by less than double digits! No team can even make these girls sweat. UConn stands six wins short of becoming the first team to go through consecutive seasons unbeaten. The Huskies, who have won both the regular season and conference tournament title the last three years and 14 times in school history. UConn improved to 14-0 against top 10 opponents (winning by an average of 26.3 points). The Huskies have won five of the last six conference tournament titles and enter the NCAAs unbeaten for the fifth time in school history. This has been one of the most dominating runs in sports history. Only a fluke can beat them now.

Has anyone been keeping tabs on Atlanta Braves rookie RF Jason Heyward? This guy is a future star. Braves are hoping the future is now. He's 6'5" slugging rookie and plays like a vet. I'm betting this 5 tool star on the rise breaks camp as Atlanta's starting RF. If he's able to keep a cool head then the Braves will be in the NL East hunt all season long. He's my odds on favorite to win NL Rookie of the Year.

Austin Jackson will quickly make the Yankees pay for trading him away. Here's 2010 soon to be AL Rookie of the Year. The Tigers new star to be CF has it all. Superb defense, explosive bat, speed and a cannon arm. Perhaps playing away from inquiring Big Apple minds is just what this kid needs to shine without day to day soap opera chatter.

48 year old veteran Chris Chelios returns to NHL action. The Atlanta Thrashers recalled Chelios and will be on the ice tonight. This isn't a publicity stunt. Chelios can still play. It'll be interesting to see if he can keep up with players half his age. No reason to think he can't. Otherwise, the Thrashers wouldn't be risking their season on a player who began his NHL career in 1983.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for "The New Era Pinstripe Bowl". Leave it to the entreprenurial prowess of the Steinbrenner clan for finding new innovative ways to strengthen their Yankees brand.

Football tradition starts a new chapter of sports in the Bronx. Yankee Stadium will host the Big East's third ranked team vs Big 12's sixth ranked team (after excluding the conferences' respective BCS teams from consideration). The four year agreement to host games gives the New Era Cap Co. "exclusive headwear licensing rights and non-exclusive apparel licensing rights on Bowl-Game-related merchandise." ESPN owns broadcasting rights for both tv and radio.

Another financial home run for the Steinbrenner's and Yankees. Yankee Stadium has a rich tradition in holding spectacular non-baseball related events from heavyweight boxing championships to visits from the Pope. This will be the first time college football returned to the Bronx since 1962. Is this just the beginning of Yanks brass trying to secure future higher ranked games? Or, will the Steinbrenner's be satisfied with the new status quo? Time will tell.

The Yankees empire continues to grow. New Yorkers love it. Yankee haters despise anything Yankee related. There's been a recent trend developing in sports arenas. Bold owners are reaching beyond their respective sports to find new avenues of entertainment. Cowboys Stadium (NFL) recently hosted the NBA All Star Game. Boston's Fenway Park hosts NHL regular season games. Let's not forget the countless music venues held across the country in arena's large and small.

This is a home run deal for all involved. New York is the media capital of the world. NCAA, New Era, ESPN and the Yankees will all capitalize on this deal even in the midst of our economic downturn. Yankee fans can celebrate a new revenue stream which will undoubtably secure what this team has always tried doing... chasing after the best baseball talent the game has to offer.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFL salary caps are out in 2010. Negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement between players and owners is making no headway whatsoever. Owners have stated cash strapped ways will lead to massive changes down the road. Not yet though. NFL teams haven't wasted any time throwing big dollar contracts at top free agents. Some teams have been clear winners. A few, big losers. Here's my short list of best and worst moves...

Winners

Atlanta Falcons Improving defense is key if Atlanta wants to become a true NFL power. They took a step in the right direction by signing CB Dunta Robinson to help slow down opposing passing attacks. Atlanta has more work to do before becoming off season winners but at least they're addressing pressing issues for future success.

Baltimore Ravens Welcome addition to a terrible WR group... Anquan Boldin was obtain via trade and quickly rewarded with a handsome new contract. Coupled with Dante Stallworth, these two finally give Baltimore much needed solid targets for QB Joe Flacco.

Chicago Bears Heading into last year Chicago wanted us to believe all they needed was a QB change. They traded Orton for Jay Cutler. Cutler was a bust but is a talented QB who will get another shot in 2010. Now he has help. Chicago's secured three impact players: DE Julius Peppers ($42M), RB Chester Taylor & TE Brandon Manumaleuna. Is it enough for the Bears to catch division rivals Green Bay & Minnesota? Probably not but they'll be much better. Don't forget, new Offensive Coordinator is Mike Martz. Bears fans can be optimistic once again.

Miami Dolphins A team in need of star calibur players got a boost by signing impact LB Karlos Dansby (5 years, $43M). Hard hitting Steelers safety Ryan Clark is expected to be signed within moments. Chad Pennington is coming back as insurance for young QB Henne. More work to be done in Miami but they're off to a flying start addressing off season needs.

Losers

Buffalo Bills Chan Gailey as new head coach. Are you kidding me? With all of the available talented coaches available Buffalo goes with Gailey??? The Bills were rejected by Super Bowl winning coaches Mike Shanahan and Bill Cowher. At least their new head coach matches up well with current players. Buffalo will have to be very lucky if they plan on winning any games in 2010. They need help everywhere from front office all the way down. Current ecomonics begs me to ask one question... who would spend a $1.00 to sit in frigid conditions to watch the NFL's worst team content on losing ugly?

Dallas Cowboys Cowboy fans must love owner Jerry Jones devotion to everything Cowboys. However, he's prone to making moves which work against progress. Jones has vowed to make "many" moves this off season. Nothing substantial yet. Dallas needs to be careful. They have a great team. No need to shake it up. WR help is a must. Special teams tacklers could help too. Dallas hosts 2011 Super Bowl. Jerry wants Cowboys playing in the big game. The best move for this franchise is to scrap their offensive coordinator and head coach.

New York Jets Father's hide your daughters! Jets, a team on the rise, signed a problem child. CB Antonio Cromartie was once a very promising pass defender has been labeled uncoachable and locker room distraction. Poor practice habits, poor tackling and various off field personal issues including fathering seven children with six women in 5 different states (also named in 5 paternity suits in past 2 years). Is this really the type of athlete you want to throw away future talent (2 draft picks) to bring into your home?

Undecided

New York Giants I've always been a fan of Antrell Rolle's talents. As a matter of fact, I was pleased to learn the Giants picked him up... until hearing NY made him the highest paid safetry in NFL history (5 years/$37M). Giants were desparate for secondary help especially after losing so many starters to injury in '09. On its' surface, Rolle's contract is way over priced. All will be forgotten and big money contract will be a bargain if Giants reach NFC Championship. There's more work to be done if this franchise has Super dreams (pass rusher, linebackers, WR's and special teams).

More to follow as NFL teams get ready for draft day.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Spring Training baseball games kicked off this week. Less than one month remains before regular season opening day! NFL teams getting busy adjusting rosters and bickering with the players union over a new collective bargaining agreement. NBA & NHL teams thinking playoffs as regular season inches closer to completion. There's a new #1 in college basketball. How long can Syracuse hold on to the top seed? Get ready for March Madness!

Here's my quick power rankings for our major sports:

MLB
1- Yankees
2- Phillies
3- Red Sox
4- Dodgers
5- Angels
6- White Sox
7- Angels
8- Cardinals
9- Rays
10-Giants

NBA
1- Lakers
2- Cleveland
3- Dallas
4- Orlando
5- Boston
6- Denver
7- Utah
8- Phoenix
9- San Antonio
10-Oklahoma

NCAA
1- Syracuse
2- Kansas
3- Kentucky
4- Duke
5- Kansas St
6- Purdue
7- New Mexico
8- Villanova
9- Butler
10- Brigham Young

NFL
1- New Orleans
2- Indianpolis
3- Minnesota
4- Green Bay
5- Dallas
6- Jets
7- Philadelphia
8- Baltimore
9- Pittsburgh
10-Giants

NHL
1- Washington
2- Chicago
3- San Jose
4- Pittsburgh
5- New Jersey
6- Vancouver
7- Buffalo
8- Los Angeles
9- Phoenix
10-Colorado

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Joe McCarthy. John McGraw. Connie Mack. Casey Stengel. Sparky Anderson. Earl Weaver. Whitey Herzog. Those are just a few of the many legendary managers in baseball history. America's greatest game has championed many era's. One thing remains the same. Great managers motivate their players to win. They overcome distractions, injuries, meddlesome owners and bigger than life stars.

So, which manager in today's era is the best? Personally, I don't believe there's one single manager who stands head and shoulders above others. There's five who I consider tops in the game right now (with 2 honorable mentions). Here's my short list of baseball's best managers.

Ron Gardenhire (708-588, .546) Gardenhire's Twins have won 5 division titles in his 8 years as skipper. What makes RG's success very significant has been winning with one of baseball's lowest budgets and young talent. He manages every inning of every game. A great motivator. Players believe and they win when most expect them to lose.

Joe Torre (2246-1915, .540) Ok, Ok simmer down Yankees haters. Joe gets the job done no matter what. Since 1996 no Torre team finished below 2nd (12 first place, 2 2nd). 15 playoff appearances is tied with Bobby Cox for most all time. Nobody deals with head cases better than Joe. His teams believe in him, he believes in players, teams win. Period.

Bobby Cox (2413-1930, .556) 2010 will be Bobby's last as a MLB manager. One of the most fiery skipper's baseball has ever produced. Braves won 14 consecutive NL East titles. Excellent motivator. Kept Atlanta competitive during recent rebuilding years. 15 playoff appearances tied with Joe Torre for most ever.

Mike Scioscia (900-720, .556) One of the games most respected managers could be a cornerstone in Anaheim for years to come. During his 10 years... 6 playoffs and 1 World Series title. Key losses and division rivals reloading will keep Scioscia on his toes this season. Excellent student of the game. Former catcher gets the most out of his players and seems to always make the right moves.

Terry Francona (850-771, .524) An instant hit in Boston. Francona's first season at the helm ended "The Curse". Boston rallied from down 3 games to 0 to beat arch rival Yanks 4 games to 3 in 2004 ALCS en route to Red Sox 1st World Series title since 1918. Captured 2nd title in '07. Sox qualified for playoffs in 5 of 6 seasons winning no less then 95 (in playoff years). Sluggers are gone for '10... but, pitchers are plentiful.

Honorable mention: Tony LaRussa, Lou Piniella.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 Winter Olympic medal competitions concluded Sunday night in Vancouver. USA won the most total medals (37). Host Canada won the most golds (14) and finished third overall behind Germany (30). We were treated to spectacular competitions from beginning to end. The final event was a thrilling overtime victory by Team Canada's men's hockey over Team USA, 3-2. Are the games over? Officially, yes. Recreationally.... ?

I ran across a funny story in Sunday's National Post. Apparently, local health officials distributing 100,000 condoms for athletes wasn't nearly enough. Considering approximately 7000 gathered within the Olympic Village confines in Vancouver... this means an average of 14 condoms/athlete were used. As of mid-week, supplies were running on empty. An additional 20,000 were rushed in by Australian Olympic supplier Ansell.

Gold, silver or bronze. An entirely new competition is rumored to be taking place as Olympians celebrate before returning home. Olympic sponsor Nike's slogan "Just Do It" has a whole new meaning.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

2010 Winter Olympic unsportmanlike medal belongs to Evgeni Plushenko of Russia for continuing to whimper of finishing 2nd in the men's figure skating championship. Plushenko's actions have landed him on thin ice in newspapers from around the globe.

Plushenko ungraciously started attacking American gold medal winner Evan Lysacek's performance.

"You can't be considered a true men's champion without a quad," Plushenko told Russian state television RTR.
"If [the] Olympic champion doesn't know how to jump a quad, it isn't men's figure skating, it's men's ice dancing," Plushenko said.

Plushenko and the Russian team had unsuccessfully sought to make quadruple jumps a permanent part of Olympic competition. By all accounts, Plushenko's performance was flawed even though he did complete a quad while Lysacek did not (wasn't required). Lysacek apparently took a safer route by sticking to a less challenging but strategically correct routine which netted gold.

Plushenko even went so far as to post a false picture on his personal website wearing a platinum medal. Get a grip man, you lost. Be a true champion by acting like one. Enough officials thought Lysacek made fewer gaffe's and skated a cleaner routine. Whether or not it was harder isn't the main issue. To win gold a skater must show a near perfect skate. Plushenko was far from perfect. Lysacek was the best on ice that night.

Get over it Plushenko. Is wasn't the quad, or lack of one, which cost you gold. It was your performance. Deal with it!

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Who says EA Sports Madden Football is just for kids? It's one of the all time best selling video games in history. It all began back in 1989 as John Madden Football for Apple computers. The game quickly caught on and has undergone major upgrades from functionability to enhance video interfaces. On line play began by way of Madden NFL 2003. Unfortunately, Madden NFL 2008 was the final version (my current) for PC play. Game consoles are very advanced affording online gaming via platforms other than personal computers. Anyone familiar with Madden games has heard of "The Madden Curse" attributed to players appearing on game box covers suddenly getting injured or reduced productivity in NFL careers.

One of my closest friends and I have been playing online against each other for years (2008 pc version). As a rule of thumb, we only act as coaches calling plays and making substitutions. We do not control individual players when online (only when playing in person). After completing our regular season we decided to do something different. Madden NFL 2008 offers "All Time" teams. However, unlike current rosters, no names are given to All Time players (only false uniform numbers). Our task was to draft teams (12 each) and enter one by one, team by team, position by position, player names instead of false numbers. So, instead of #3 as QB of the All Time 49ers, it now reads Joe Montana. This was done for all of our teams. It was a painstaking drill which hit many snags before completing.

Our schedule runs 24 games/team with all teams playing against each other twice (home/away). Our schedule has reached week 6. It's been a blast bringing back and using players like Dan Marino, Larry Csonka, Jim Brown, Jerry Rice, Dick Butkus, Lawrence Taylor, Gale Sayers, Walter Payton, Lance Alworth, Joe Namath etc. On the surface, All Time teams of intense calibur are separated by few tendencies. Specifically, offensive and defensive lineman. I did my homework and based most of my draft picks on whichever team would control the line of scrimmage. So far, my plan has worked perfectly. My top teams based on W/L records are as follows: Bears (6-0) featuring the games best defense hands down, Raiders (6-0), Colts (5-0), NY Jets (5-0). Takeaways have been by biggest advantage and is a direct result of superior lineman or defensive specialists. My buddy has a few teams still struggling for their first victory.

There have been many intense battles. Sometimes the game is fairly true to life. Often times, it is not. Nonetheless, it's been great recreating players of old and watching them do their thing on the field. I'll post periodic updates and stats when they become available. Stay tuned....

Visit "All Worlds All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Has anyone been watching the Winter Olympics? Athletes from around the world have been giving it their all in Vancouver. I can't help notice one glaring omission. Patriotism. Is it just me? Has any American metioned the country he or she represents while being interviewed? How about when accepting medals on behalf of their/our nation?

Politics need not get involved. Patriotism is not politics. Being proud representing your country as one of its' greatest sporting competitors is patriotism.

One can't help but think we're witnessing too much individualism. It's fair to say I haven't watched every minute or event being held in Vanouver. From what I have seen, not a single American has even mentioned our nation. Not even in passing. Smacks of a selfish entitlement idiology. Patriotism isn't in their hearts which is quite surprising considering diverse backgrounds make up USA's Winter Olympics rosters. Has anyone made an statement "... on behalf of my teammates.." or any sort of gratitude for anything? Not even paying tribute to their coaches or trainers.

American viewers have been treated to tremendous games. Witnessing Olympic glory and a few devastating defeats. Compeition at highest attainable levels. "Earning" the opportunity of wearing your country's flag had always been a dream of most Olympians. Nearly all of prior Team USA participants have expressed this in countless interviews and public appearances. Even our President hasn't spoken in support of our greatest athletes as they represent the United States of America.

Perhaps individualism or lack of patriotic acknowledgement is the "in" thing these days. Maybe my observations above shouldn't be directed with broad key strokes. But, something is clearly been missing. An abundance of sportsmanship has shined for all to see. Patriotism remains in the dark.

Visit "All World All Sports" to link with your favorite sports venues from around the world.

-Digger's Daily-

Baseball 2010 is warming up. Team camps are open and players are getting ready to chase their World Series dreams. Fans have been signing up in record numbers to play fantasy baseball on various sites from online forums to in-person gatherings.

There's no better fantasy sports game than baseball. It's a true test of managers ability to keep teams going over the course of 162 games. Early or late season injuries can destroy an entire season if managers fail to plan ahead. I thoroughly enjoy fantasy baseball player debates when managers attempt explaining away why they chose a particular player to build their teams around.

Fantasy baseball comes in many forms. AL only, NL only, All Universe. Then we have to choose which style of play... head to head, rotisserie. Do you play in leagues which assign dollar values? Caps? No salary? Money leagues? Leagues for fun? Should I join an ESPN league? Baseball Manager? Plenty of games are out there. Do your homework before signing up.

I've decided to rank my top ten players by position for fantasy baseball impact. These rankings are without dollar considerations. It's strictly a list of best players offering biggest value (stat) returns by position. Obviously, rankings would change depending on league scoring types. Here we go...

Catchers:
1- Joe Mauer
2- Victor Martinez
3- Jorge Posada
4- Brian McCann
5- Geovany Soto
6- Russell Martin
7- Benji Molina
8- Matt Wieters (rookie, sleeper)
9- Mike Napoli
10-Ryan Doumit

There's a serious dropoff in production after the top 3. Buyer beware.

1B:
1- Albert Pujols
2- Ryan Howard
3- Mark Teixeira
4- Prince Fielder
5- Justin Morneau
6- Miguel Cabrera
7- Adrian Gonzalez
8- Kendry Morales
9- Adam Dunn
10-Derek Lee

Top 5 guaranteed to produce BIG stats.

2B:
1- Chase Utley
2- Dustin Pedroia
3- Robinson Cano
4- Ian Kinsler
5- Brian Roberts
6- Aaron Hill
7- Brandon Phillips
8- Howie Kendrick
9- Dan Uggla
10-Ben Zobrist

3B:
1- Alex Rodriguez
2- Evan Longoria
3- Pablo Sandoval
4- Ryan Zimmerman
5- Aramis Ramirez
6- Kevin Youkilis
7- Mark Reynolds
8- David Wright
9- Chone Figgins
10-Michael Young

SS:
1- Hanley Ramirez
2- Jimmy Rollins
3- Troy Tulowitzki
4- Derek Jeter
5- Jose Reyes (beware)
6- Jason Bartlett
7- Alcides Escobar
8- Yuniel Escobar
9- Stephen Drew
10-Orlando Cabrera

If you don't land a top 4 SS then go after other positions offering better production. SS isn't going to give you big stats w/o top 4. Draft according to league type. Not worth ruining an entire season by taking a chance here.

OF:
1- Ryan Braun
2- Manny Ramirez
3- Matt Holliday
4- Andre Ethier
5- Adam Lind
6- Carl Crawford
7- Grady Sizemore
8- Curtis Granderson
9- Jason Werth
10-Ichiro Suzuki

Clearly debates will rage here. OF rankings depend on the type of league you've joined. In head to head matchups, go for power. Rotisserie leagues might need speed or high batting average types if you already have enough power or RBI producers. Know your team and understand scoring rules.

DH:
1- David Ortiz
2- Hideki Matsui
3- Vlad Guerrero
4- Jason Kubel

Only four listed. Just go for the best hitter as DH slots are universal (anyone can hit here). No pure DH is worth drafting before later round in live drafts.

Starting Pitchers:
1- Tim Lincecum
2- Felix Hernandez
3- Justin Verlander
4- Zack Grienke
5- CC Sabathia
6- Roy Halladay
7- Chris Carpenter
8- Johan Santana
9- Jon Lester
10-Cliff Lee

Understand your league type and scoring when drafting starting pitchers. Some leagues place greater emphasis on certain statistics or may not include points for catagories such as shutouts, complete games, quality starts.

Closers:
1- Mariano Rivera
2- Jonathan Papelbon
3- Jonathan Broxton
4- Joe Nathan
5- Francisco Rodriguez
6- Trevor Hoffman
7- Hudson Street
8- Ryan Franklin
9- David Aardsma
10-Bobby Jenks

Understand your league type and scoring when drafting closers.

Let the raging debates begin. Keep in mind these rankings, as listed, are somewhat generic. Know your leagues and pre-rank players according to maximum contribution potentials. Always use your top 5 picks for maximum statistical returns. Pujols, Howard, ARod, Hanley Ramirez, Lincecum are all great and highly sought 1st round selections. Never over bid for one particular player if it detracts from completing a balanced attack. Have I mentioned... "know your league" in preparation for draft day?

Happy drafting.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NL West baseball was spectacular in '09. Joe Torre's LA Dodgers managed to hang on and win the division in the final week. Colorado pulled off another fantastic finish by getting hot at just the right time. San Francisco's younth movement surprisingly kept pressure on all foes thanks to Cy Young winner Tim Lincecum and Matt Cain. Arizona was busy shoring up their roster. San Diego has seen better days.

Here's my final brief installment of 2010 previews... NL West.

Los Angeles Dodgers (95-67):
Key additions: 22 players signed to minor league contracts including Eric Gagne & Brian Giles trying to rejuvenate careers.
Key losses: John Garland, Orlando Hudson, Guillermo Mota, Juan Pierre, Jim Thome, Randy Wolf.
Dodger baseball is alive and well with Joe Torre at the helm. Back to back NL West titles for the first time since the days of Tommy Lasorda (1994-95). Great nucleus of young pitching & hitting assures this team will remain in West race for years to come.
Projected rotation: Chad Billingsley, Clayton Kershaw, Hiroki Kuroda, Vincente Padilla, ???
Bullpen: Fireballer Jonathan Broxton returns. Eric Gagne making another comeback attempt. Very deep, talented bullpen. Perhaps they have too many arms? Ideal for end of spring trading bait.
Forecast: Starting pitching might not go deep enough into games. Torre will have his hands full trying to keep relievers arms sound when the clock turns to September. Lineup comes through with clutch hit after clutch hit... until NLCS rolls around. Torre will try getting his team past recent playoff failures... assuming they can hold off rising Rockies.

Colorado Rockies (92-70):
Key additions: Melvin Mora, Miguel Olivo
Key losses: Garrett Atkins, Jose Contreras, Josh Fogg, Matt Herges, Jason Marquis, Yorvit Torrealba.
Once again, Colorado put together a strong late season push to make the playoffs. Strong performances by young rotation surprised everyone outside of Denver. All starters had winning records. Cutting down on strikeouts will go a long way towards winning the West. Rocks hope young talent matures enough to win it all. Dangerous club when all cylinder's are firing.
Projected rotation: Ubaldo Jiminez, Aaron Cook, Jorge De La Rosa, Jeff Francis, Jason Hamel, Franklin Morales.
Bullpen: Hudson Street is loving life away from Oakland. Plenty of arms competing for roles on the big league club. Minors will be filled with pitching talent when camp breaks.
Forecast: Is this the year Colorado goes wire to wire? There's plenty of talent here to make a legit World Series run if starting pitchers continue improving.

San Francisco Giants (88-74):
Key additions: Mark DeRosa, Aubrey Huff, Guillermo Mota.
Key losses: Ryan Garko, Bob Howry, Randy Johnson, Brad Penny, Randy Winn.
Heading into '09 everyone knew SF wasn't going to win. In fact, most thought this club might not advance from the cellar. By the end of August, the Giants grabbed hold of 2nd place. Offense was their weak point most of the year outside of Sandoval (only regular to hit over .270). Giants front office has brought in DeRosa and Huff to add offensive potency in 2010. SF is a team on the rise but might still be a year or two away from passing LA/Colorado. But, don't be surprised if they're sitting alone in 1st when this season ends.
Projected rotation: Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, Barry Zito, Jonathan Sanchez, ???
Bullpen: Brian Wilson returns to close. I'm not sold on his ability to shut down opponents in big games. Bullpen choirs will be spring time decisions.
Forecast: SF is putting together a fine club. I don't see them winning the West (yet). They'll be very competitive behind solid 1-2 punch of Lincecum & Cain.

San Diego Padres (75-87):
Key additions: John Garland, Jerry Hairston Jr., Yorvit Torrealba, Matt Stairs.
Key losses: Jake Peavy, Brian Giles, Josh Banks, Henry Blanco, Cliff Floyd, Kevin Kouzmanoff.
Padres have yet to recover since blowing their wild card lead to Colorado back in '07. As a matter of fact, they've gone backwards. 2010 will be a very long season and remaining talent could be jettisoned by MLB trading deadline. There isn't anything positive to say about the Padres. Lack of attention towards attempting to build a winning ballclub should have all San Diego fans miffed.
Projected rotation: John Garland, Chris Young, Kevin Correia, ???
Bullpen: Heath Bell returns as closer. Bullpen has talent. Unfortunately, they could easily be burnt out by the All Star break.
Forecast: Doom and gloom with no help on the horizon. Reproducing 75 wins seems like a longshot in tough NL West.

Arizona Diamondbacks (70-92):
Key additions: Edwin Jackson, Adam LaRoche, Aaron Heilman, Ian Kennedy, Bob Howry, Kelly Johnson.
Key losses: Eric Byrnes, Doug Davis, Yusmeiro Petit, Max Scherzer, Chad Tracy, Daniel Schlereth.
Arizona deserves credit for attempting to quickly return to winning ways. Injuries hurt them in recent years. They're now ready to compete. Only question is if new players can produce and if younger home grown talent matures.
Projected rotation: Brandon Webb, Dan Haren, Edwin Jackson, ???
Bullpen: Chad Quails appears to be the closer. Deep bullpen, assignments to be won or lost this spring.
Forecast: Arizona is dangerous for one reason... everyone's eyes are on LA, Colorado & SF. Many pieces need to fall into place beginning with keeping players healthy. Don't be surprised if D-Backs challenge for division honors.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for 2010 AL West style baseball. It's going to be a shoot out in the West. Los Angeles has captured division title honors in 5 of 6 seasons. They'll be tested this year. Seattle was busy transforming their roster. Texas seemed ready to dethrone the Angels after beginning 30-19 only to falter during 100 degree sweltering Arlington temperatures. Oakland continues on the low payroll road which has led to dead ends of late.

Let's take a look at how these teams shape up. Only two weeks before Cactus League games begin.

Los Angeles Angels (97-65):
Key additions: Scott Kazmir, Hideki Matsui, Joel Piniero, Fernando Rodney, Brian Stokes.
Key losses: Chone Figgins, Kelvin Escobar, Vlad Guerrero, John Lackey, Gary Mathews Jr., Darren Oliver.
It's been a long time since the Angels dropped so many key players at once. Bad timing? Nope, not with Mike Scioscia calling the shots. LA did well replacing big salaried players. Angels have a young nucleus of talent in place. If they can play up to potential then LA will be the team to beat for quite some time.
Projected rotation: Jared Weaver, Scott Kazmir, Ervin Santana, Joe Saunders, Joel Piniero.
Bullpen: Rumors swirling wondering who will win the closers job this spring? Fuentes saved 48 but was often shaky. He may be challenged by Shields and newcomer Rodney. Plenty of solid arms. Bullpen should be just fine.
Forecast: Scioscia managed his butt off last season when multiple injuries nearly left this team for dead. Solid young lineup of rising stars. They do it all... speed, power, aggressiveness, defense & pitching. Repeating will not be an easy task but they have the talent and leadership to keep it going.

Texas Rangers (87-75):
Key additions: Vlad Guerrero, Rich Harden, Darren Oliver.
Key losses: Marlon Byrd, Eddie Guardado, Hank Blalock, Andruw Jones, Kevin Millwood, Ivan Rodriguez.
Rangers had a short lived great half of '09 when the led the West. Young pitchers came thru early and often before wilting in summer months. Lineup looked great at times. This team has always been able to hit. Pitching has usually been lacking. Rich Harden, if finally over arm woes, needs to become the staff leader on and off the diamond. Maybe last years' taste of winning can energize this team out of the gates? They'll only go as far as pitchers take them. Easier said than done.
Projected rotation: Rich Harden, Scott Feldman, Tommy Hunter, ???
Bullpen: Francisco Francisco will get plenty of save opp's. The rest of the pen needs to become consistent and probably won't be determined until the end of spring training.
Forecast: They'll score plenty of runs. Trick is getting pitchers to protect leads. Front office still hasn't gone hard after big time starting pitchers.

Seattle Mariners (85-77):
Key additions: Cliff Lee, Chone Figgins, Milton Bradley, Eric Byrnes, Ryan Garko and plenty of role players to compete for bench spots.
Key losses: Adrian Beltre, Kenji Johjima, Carlos Silva, Miguel Bastita.
The Mariners were one of baseball's busiest franchises this winter. They're ready for a serious run at dethroning LA. Lineup will have to manufacture runs without a bonified slugger. Pitching staff will keep them in games all year. Timely hits will be key to their success.
Projected rotation: Felix Hernandez, Cliff Lee, Eric Bedard, ???
Bullpen: David Aardsma returns and needs to prove '09 was no fluke. Wide open race for middle relief and setup.
Forecast: Will they become a team to beat? Or, did they overdue it once again? Time will tell. Looking good on paper. A quick start in April is key.

Oakland Athletics (75-87):
Key additions: Ben Sheets, Coco Crisp.
Key losses: Bobby Crosby, Adam Kennedy, Scott Hairston.
Oakland is in a downward spiral. Lack of attendance hurts payroll. Lack of star power hurts attendance. GM Billy Beane had looked like a front office guru not too long ago by his ability to create playoff calibur teams on low budgets. However, back in the day he had Harden, Zito & Mulder (all long gone). Injuries to one time future star pitchers took its' toll. This is a team in transition with no immediate help in sight. AL West foes are too deep. A's lack firepower or pitching to compete anytime soon.
Projected rotation: Ben Sheets, Brett Anderson, Dallas Braden, Justin Duchscherer, ??
Bullpen: Andrew Bailey was terrific in '09 and will be again in '10. Bullpen is lone team brightspot. Giving them a lead with a weak lineup is no easy task.
Forecast: Division rivals upgraded in a big way. A's stuck with what they have. Starting rotation trying to recover from arm woes and weakest West lineup spells trouble.

NL West up next.....

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

St. Louis ran away with the Central division title last year. Chicago fans suffered another disappointing season after their Cubs couldn't live up to division favorite status. Milwaukee's pitching staff didn't survive the loss of CC Sabathia & Sheets. Excitement filled the air in Cincinnati. Too bad it didn't translate into wins. Houston's demise may take years to correct. Pittsburgh's future is finally looking bright with excellent young talent.

2010 will be a very competitive season for NL Central teams. Time for a brief look into how these teams shape up heading into spring training (in order of '09 standings).

St. Louis Cardinals (91-71):
Key additions: Brad Penny.
Key losses: Rick Ankiel, Mark DeRosa, Troy Glaus, Khalil Green, Joel Piniero, Todd Wellmeyer, John Smoltz.
I have to admit when I'm wrong. I didn't give the Cards any shot heading into 2009. Thanks to a very strong pitching staff, St. Louis ran away with the division. Pitching remains strong. I'm not sure about their lineup beyond Pujols & Holliday. Plus, no solid left handed bats are to be found. Left side of infield defense doesn't scare anyone on paper offensively or defensively. Not retaining DeRosa was a monumental mistake. LaRussa's managing skills will be put to the test again this year. No reason to think this proven manager will fold. However, there's a circus-like atmosphere already swirling as the Cards hired steroid junkie Mark McGwire as batting instructor. This guy should be banned from major league ballparks nationwide.
Projected rotation: Chris Carpenter, Adam Wainwright, Kyle Lohse, Brad Penny, ???
Bullpen: Ryan Franklin was outstanding in his first full season as Cards closer. Middle relievers must be sharp again to secure wins or it could be a long year.
Forecast: Cards or Cubs in '10? Cards do not impress me on paper but this won't stop them from proving me wrong again. One more move might be in store to solidify infield defense.

Chicago Cubs (83-78):
Key additions: Marlon Byrd, Kevin Millar, Xavier Nady, Carlos Silva, Chad Tracy.
Key losses: Milton Bradley, Neal Cotts, Kevin Gregg, Rich Harden, Aaron Heilman, Reed Johnson, Aaron Miles.
Cubs were high on most lists heading into '09. They never got in gear. Mark DeRosa was sorely missed. Internal squabbles, nagging injuries, porous pitching and horrible team chemistry doomed Chicago. The bad actors are gone. Cubs are ready to contend. Lineup is very strong. Rotation remains competitive. Late inning pitching remains a major question mark. Cubs will rise or fall on how well (or not) they protect late inning leads.
Projected rotation: Carlos Zambrano, Ryan Dempster, Ted Lilly, Randy Wells, ???
Bullpen: Marmol is Chicago's new closer. Competition for bullpen roles is wide open.
Forecast: Tough to call right now. A few are returning from injuries. Bullpen slots yet to be determined. Cubs will challenge but fans shouldn't be thinking World Series. Especially after 100+ years of near futility.

Milwaukee Brewers (80-82):
Key additions: Doug Davis, LaTroy Hawkins, Randy Wolf, Greg Zaun.
Key losses: Mike Cameron, Frank Catalanotto, JJ Hardy, Jason Kendall.
Milwaukee never had any chance of success last year in my book. Not after getting rid of their best pitchers. Not when their lineup continues to make bad outs (strikeouts do not advance base runners). Defense was suspect. So, what's changed for this season? A better rotation. Overrated JJ Hardy is finally gone. Coaching staff hasn't been effectively teaching young Brewers hitters to be patient, to put the ball in play, to keep pressure on opponents. Milwaukee lives and dies by the long ball. It's not enough to count on raw power for 162 games when so many other areas are lacking. Interesting side note. Why did Milwaukee go after lefty starting pitchers when most Central teams have heavy right handed hitting lineups?
Projected rotation: Yovani Gallardo, Randy Wolf, Doug Davis, Jeff Suppan, David Bush.
Bullpen: Trevor Hoffman returns after a stellar '09 campaign. Bullpen is looking strong in all areas. A nice strength to have heading into '10.
Forecast: 2010 should be a better year for Milwaukee. Dangerous and powerful lineup has hopefully matured if these guys are to legitimately challenge for Central crown.

Cincinnati Reds (78-84):
Key additions: Orlando Cabrera.
Key losses: Willy Taveras.
Cincinnati's biggest achilles heel is Great American Ballpark. It offers no home field advantage. I believe it's a disadvantage for home team pitching staff. It will also be very hard convincing any #1 starter to become a Red. Hitters love playing here. But, managers will go crazy unless ground ball pitchers are finally brought into town. Don't hold your breathe. On the plus side. Reds are young energetic club. They should produce plenty of runs in 2010. Question is... how many will they surrender?
Projected rotation: Aaron Harang, Johnny Cueto, Bronson Arroyo, Homer Bailey, ???
Bullpen: Francisco Cordero returns to close. All other bullpen jobs up for grabs this spring.
Forecast: Reds are probably a .500 team at best right now. Outfielders are one of NL's weakest groups on paper. Reds not ready to challenge.

Houston Astros (74-88):
Key additions: Pedro Feliz, Brandon Lyon, Gary Majewski, Brett Myers.
Key losses: Miguel Tejada, LaTroy Hawkins, Jose Valverde.
Astros stuggled all year long in '09. They never got their game on track. Starting rotation was horrible. It doesn't look much better right now either. Lineup is above average but it's hard to win when trailing game after game. Looks like another year of playing from behind.
Projected rotation: Roy Oswalt, Wandy Rodriguez, Brett Myers, ???
Bullpen: Matt Lindstrom, closer? Really? All bullpen roles to be settled before game 162. Not looking good.
Forecast: Doom and gloom.

Pittsburgh Pirates (62-99):
Key additions: Ryan Church, Neal Cotts, Brendan Donnelly, Octavio Dotel, Akinori Iwamura,
Key losses: Mike Capps.
Pirates last winning season was 1992. The streak continues but their future is looking brighter. A few good young starting pitchers. Good young OF. Infielders are big question mark. So is finding someone with a winning attitude to lead this team. It's doubtful this squad will reach .500 but I expect them to play spoilers.
Projected rotation: Zack Duke, Paul Maholm, Ross Ohlendorf, ???
Bullpen: Dotel's arrival is welcomed with open arms for a team unable to get key late inning outs.
Forecast: Pitchers hold the key. Pirates are a long way from challenging. 2010 could be the year Pittsburgh begins earning respect. If not, then it's time for management to step aside.

Stay tuned... AL West on deck...

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

After a series of trades and free agent signings, Detroit entered the 2009 season as the team to beat. They held a season high 7 game lead on September 6th and remained in first place right up until the very last pitch of the season. Minnesota beat Detroit in special one game playoff to decide AL Central. The Twins won in the bottom of 12, 6-5. Minnesota advanced, Tigers went home with tails between their legs.

2010 will be another tight race in baseball's anything can happen division. All teams not named Cleveland have either improved or matured. It's going to be a great race. Time to take a look at winter winners and losers (in order of '09 standings).

Minnesota Twins (87-76):
Key additions: Orlando Hudson, Jacque Jones, Jim Thome.
Key losses: Orlando Cabrera, Carlos Gomez.
Ron Gardenhire's Twins are good. They play solid defense, offense provides key hits in clutch situations. Rotation began slowly but solidified by years' end. Closer Nathan is lights out. Hardy & Hudson form Twins newest dp combo. I've never been high on Hardy. Limited defensive range and very high strikeout total. He will hit homers from time to time between unproductive bad outs. Mauer & Morneau are a deadly combo and lead this offense. On paper, they often don't match up well vs foes. But, when games are played, their scrappy style wins more than they lose.
Projected rotation: Baker, Slowey, Blackburn, Pavano, Liriano.
Bullpen: Lights out with Nathan anchoring talent group of relievers.
Forecast: Is there one more big season left in DH Jim Thome's bat? Twins hope so but he may not see much action unless powerful numbers are produced this spring. Which Liriano will show up this season? He went 12-3, 2.16 in '07 before posting miserable performances last year (5-13, 5.80). Pitching holds the key in '10. Twins should be right in the Central race to the final week.

Detroit Tigers (86-77):
Key additions: Austin Jackson, Jose Valverde, Max Scherzer, Phil Coke and young pitchers who should add depth when called up from minors.
Key losses: Placido Polanco, Curtis Granderson, Brandon Lyon, Edwin Jackson, Aubrey Huff, Fernando Rodney, Marcus Thames.
Tigers gained good inexperienced talent. Gave up great proven talent. Last year, I thought Detroit might challenge for World Series glory. They never lived up to expectations. Pitching doomed hopes last year. Not keeping Edwin Jackson won't help their '10 changes. New look batting lineup will scare many opposing rotations. It could be a very long year for the Tigers.
Projected rotation: Verlander, Scherzer, Porcello, Galaragga, ???
Bullpen: Valverde is their new closer. He many not see too many save opportunties. Middle relievers and setup jobs to be won in spring training.
Forecast: As of now, it doesn't look good for the Tigers heading into spring training. Too many question marks from batting lineup decisions to defense and bullpen.

Chicago White Sox (79-83):
Key additions: Jake Peavy, Juan Pierre, JJ Putz, Omar Vizquel, Andrew Jones, Mark Teahen.
Key losses: Jermaine Dye, Octavio Dotel, DJ Carrasco, Scott Posednik.
Chicago hopes woes of '09 have been left far behind. These guys struggled all season long to score runs and still found themselves within contention into mid-September. 2010 lineup will generate plenty of excitement. Starting pitchers will have new found run support. Bullpen needs to protect leads. Skies the limit. Sox looking like front runners to me.
Projected rotation: Peavy, Buehrle, Danks, Floyd, ???
Bullpen: Jenks returns as Sox closer. Plenty of solid arms will duke it out this spring.
Forecast: Deep team. Lineup will create runs. Peavy & Buehrle will win 20+ each. Back half of rotation must put up solid efforts. Chicago looks like a major challenger to winning the AL crown.

Cleveland Indians (65-97):
Key additions: Not many impact players (aging vets or castoffs from other teams).
Key losses: Kelly Shoppach.
Cleveland has given away so much talent in recent years. Not too long ago this franchise seemed destined for greatness. Not anymore. This is going to be a very long rebuilding process. Avoiding 100 wins will not be easy. Too many question marks in all phases of their game.
Projected rotation: Carmona, Huff, Westbrook, ???
Bullpen: Kerry Wood (closer) is always one pitch away from arm troubles. He's their go to guy. Middle relief was a disaster last year.
Forecast: This team will rise or fall on their pitching arms. Starters need to keep games close and reliever need to thwart rallies. 2007 ALCS appearance seems like a distant memory.

Kansas City Royals (67-95):
Key additions: Rick Ankiel, Josh Fields, Chris Getz, Jason Kendall, Scott Posednik,
Key losses: John Buck, Coco Crisp, Miguel Olivo, Mark Teahen,
I had hoped KC was going to surprise the baseball world last year. Only one player did, Cy Young Award winner Zack Grienke (16-8, 2.16). He was masterful for a dismal team. They couldn't hit or pitch in clutch moments. Guess what? 2010 Royals will turn heads. Don't be surprised at all when these guys climb the standings. Many question marks on offense. However, new players could set the stage for a memorable season.
Projected rotation: Grienke, Meche, Davies, ???
Bullpen: Soria anchors a deep bullpen. Relievers have been a sore spot for KC in recent years. Looks good on paper right now.
Forecast: Outfield defense much improved. Veteran backstop Kendall knows how to handle young pitchers which is an instant bonus. If these guys learn to cut down on strike outs and put the ball in play then 2010 will be considered a success by seasons' end.

Stay tuned... NL Central on deck.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Philadelphia was the NL's first team playing in back to back World Series since Atlanta in 1995 (won) & 1996 (lost). They're front runners to make it three straight in 2010. Atlanta tries to regain NL glory. The Braves finished first 14 of 15 seasons between 1991-2005 including 11 consecutive East titles. Florida's youth finds ways to win. New York's club invented new ways to lose day after day in '09. Washington re-tooled for '10.

Who will be the beast of the east this year? Time to check out off season winners and losers (in order of 2009 standings).

Philadelphia Phillies (93-69, Lost World Series):
Key additions: Roy Halladay, Placido Polanco, Danys Baez, Jose Contreras, Brian Schneider.
Key losses: Cliff Lee, Kyle Drabek, Pedro Feliz, Brett Myers.
Toronto dangled Halladay and the Phillies got him by way of a three team blockbuster. Time to celebrate? Maybe, maybe not. How did Philly brass cut loose post-season hero Cliff Lee? They could have had Halladay, Lee & Hamels dominating foes for years to come. Phils will not miss a beat without Lee this year. BUT.. one can only wonder what could have been only if the front office was shrewd enough to think "dynasty" instead of instant gratification. Monster batting lineup is much improved with the addition of Polanco.
Projected rotation: Halladay, Hamels, Blanton, Happ, Contreras
Bullpen: Disasterous for much of '09 before finally settling down in September. Lidge rebounded just in time for post season play after nearly being demoted (0-8, 7.21). Relievers will battle for jobs during spring training and should be fine heading into regular season play.
Forecast: Barring injuries, NL East is the Phils to win or lose. Very strong, very deep team.

Florida Marlins (87-75):
Key additions: no standouts
Key losses: Nick Johnson, Russ Gload, Jeremy Hermida, Matt Lindstrom, Scott Proctor, Brendan Donnelly.
How does this team keep threatening to win the East year after year? Simple. Great scouting. Great development system. Florida plays fundamental baseball. This franchise keeps churing out strong pitchers for future champions. Great team chemistry & attitude. Don't be surprised if they're knocking on the door once again.
Projected rotation: Josh Johnson, Ricky Nolasco, Anibal Sanchez, ???
Bullpen: All jobs are open. Leo Nunez will be given first crack at nailing down the closer role. Spring training battles will be fun to watch.
Forecast: Never count these guys out. They play with heart and guts. Dangerous club. Signing a veteran slugger or flame thrower would instantly turn the Marlins into playoff contenders.

Atlanta Braves (86-76):
Key additions: Troy Glaus, Takashi Saito, Billy Wagner, Scott Proctor, Erik Hinske.
Key losses: Mike Gonzalez, Adam LaRoche, Kelly Johnson, Rafael Soriano.
2010 will be manager Bobby Cox final season. He's one of the all time greatest in baseball's history. The Braves got stronger gearing up for another pennant push. Atlanta hasn't finished higher than 3rd four years running since winning 11 consecutive division titles. Finger pointing begins with poor bullpen performances. It's been revamped for '10 so look out East. Now there's a new question... can this team score runs? Chipper and Glaus are nearing retirement and the rest of this lineup is very young. Defense could be troublesome too.
Projected rotation: Tommy Hanson, Jair Jurrgens, Derek Lowe, Tim Hudson, ???
Bullpen: Revamped and suddenly lights out group highlighted by newcomers Wagner & Saito.
Forecast: If Atlanta can create runs then they'll be back in the thick of things once again.

New York Mets (70-92):
Key additions: Jason Bay, Gary Mathews Jr, Kelvim Escobar, Mike Jacobs, Ryota Igarashi,
Key losses: JJ Putz, Brian Schneider.
Mets completely fell apart last year. Not many teams played sloppier baseball than these guys. Even their new ballpark was severly critiqued. Injuries plagued most star players in '09. Reyes, Beltran, Delgado, Santana, Maine, Wagner, Pagan, Putz and a host of others all missed significant time. I'm not a fan of their current front office and baseball related decision making. They should be considered big losers this winter. Heading into 2010... no bonified starting 1B, C and weak starting rotation. Plenty of bargain salaried free agents are still available from role players to potential starters and the Mets aren't making any moves. NY needs to get every break in '10 to win more than they lose. Health is key #1. Defense #2. Solid pitching #3.
Projected rotation: Santana, Maine, Pelfrey, Perez, ???
Bullpen: Francisco Rodriguez was often victimized by shoddy defense. Setup men blew it all year long. Japanese import Ryota Igarashi is being counted on heavily. Escobar is slated as a reliever. What are the Mets thinking? Obviously, not clearly.
Forecast: If healthy, they might challenge. Far from dominating rotation. Bullpen still in trouble. Lack of batting power and defense still a question mark especially on infield's right side. Looks like another long season for Mets fans.

Washington Nationals (59-103):
Key additions: Chien-Ming Wang, Ivan Rodriguez, Jason Marquis, Eddie Guardado, Adam Kennedy, Brian Bruney and many potential contributors to minor league contracts.
Key losses: No one who will be missed.
I like what Washington has done this winter. Don't get me wrong as I believe it would take a baseball miracle for the Nationals to contend any time soon. On the other hand, respectability and a winning attitude probably got a boost with the addition of a few soon to be instrumental conttibutors. Signing Pudge will help young pitchers. Rotation and bullpen positions up for grabs (as always). Pitching has always been a very big problem for Washington. These guys never seem to throw strikes. Batting lineup will put up runs led by Zimmerman & Dunn.
Projected rotation: Up for grabs. Lannan & Marquis are the only locks as of now. Wang will be a welcomed addition if he bounces back from injury woes.
Bullpen: Spring training to determines who makes big league squad. Personally, I'd like to see Bruney win the job.
Forecast: Playoffs are way off in the distant future. 2010 should be better than recent seasons.

NL East race will be great. Philadelphia remains obvious front runners followed by Atlanta & Florida giving it their all. New York & Washington have a long way to go. As for predictions, lets wait and see how I feel when rosters are finalized. Stay tuned.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NBA owners vs players.
$400M league-wide losses.
Current CBA (Collective Bargaining Agreement) expires 2011.

Trouble brewing? Apparently so after a contentious meetings between owners and player association reps turned sour. We're in the early stages of what promises to become very public and cantankerous negotiations. The realities of this situation are very clear. NBA teams are bleeding. $400M projected losses this season after years of losing millions as a result of the current CBA.

"The right adjectives were thrown around, and our proposal appropriately denounced. Our response is, 'You can denounce it, tear it up, you can burn it, you can jump up and down on it, as long as you understand that it reflects the financial realities of where we are," Stern said during his annual All-Star press conference.

"And if you would like to have your own proposal, as long as it comes back and deals with our financial realities, that's OK with us. That's fine with us. In fact, that's what we would like to do."

It's time professional athletes take notice of economic conditions. Many remaining baseball free agents have learned the hard way that owners wallets are no longer free flowing with outrageous contract offers. NBA players have luxurious contracts which can no longer be supported.

Stern criticized the union's behavior at the session, saying it earned "high marks on the list of theatrical negotiations." He revealed that the players' side brought in a lawyer who threatened that the union would be decertified, making negotiating more difficult.

Unions rarely seem willing to negotiate for lower revenues. Doesn't seem to matter what industry is losing money, unions rarely give up anything without a fight even when their position flies in the face of sound economic practices. Take a look at airline and automotive industries. Professional sports players are making unsustainable salaries in our current environment. Something has to give.

Stay tuned... this is only the beginning of what promises to be salary restructuring within most major sports. NFL & MLB will be next.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Olympic creed: "The most important thing in life is not the triumph, but the fight ; the essential thing is not to have won, but to have fought well."

Olympic motto: Citius-Altius-Fortius (faster, higher, stronger)

What currently drives athletes to find new ways to cheat in their sports profession? Present day anti-doping testing continuously advances to new levels attempting to weed out stupid fools trying for artificial personal gaming advantages. Professional and amateur athletic associations have made ridding dopers priority number one.

2010 Winter Olympics are set to commence in Vancouver. The World Anti-Doping Agency, responsible for testing Olympians, released a statement claiming 30 athletes failed their drug tests and are banned from competition. It's a sad day when individual athletes disrespect their sport. It's border line criminal when Olympians embarrass an entire nation when caught red handed.

Too bad Olympians names & countries aren't made public. I'm certain, in some instances, doping is state sponsored. Quite an indictment. When individual countries can't control their own competitors then it rightfully makes one wonder if they're culpable.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Football season is over. As I sit here today waiting on a winter blizzard to hit New York... baseball season comes to mind. Spring training begins in a few days. New York Yankees will soon attempt defending their World Series crown. Can they do it?

MLB's off season was relatively quite. There were a few blockbuster style trades. However, many quality free agents remain. No doubt our economy has something to due with owners not ponying up major bucks for players holding out for more and more. Or, are they using it as an excuse to collectively drawn down excessive contracts? Take your pick. Either way, remaining players will probably settle for less than they ever imagined (if they're even offered contracts).

Time to break down winter winners and losers division by division. Leading off... American League East (in order of 2009 standings).

New York Yankees (103-59, World Series Champions)
Key additions: Curtis Granderson, Nick Johnson, Javier Vasquez, Randy Winn, Marcus Thames.
Key losses: Johnny Damon, Brian Bruney, Melky Cabrera, Phil Coke, Jerry Hairston Jr, Austin Jackson, Hideki Matsui, Xavier Nady.
Simply put, if the Yankees starting rotation doesn't post a phenominal 2010 then it could be a long year in New York. Yankees lineup took a tremendous hit this off-season. Lost are clutch performers Damon and World Series MVP Matsui. A young Granderson is a welcomed addition & will be taught better plate discipline by veteran teammates. But, why bring back injury prone Nick Johnson as DH? It's a big unnecessary gamble. Johnson has a great eye at the dish. But, he's spent more time on the disabled list than playing field. Most concerning is the what seems to be the weakest Yankees bench in 20 years. Bench lacks big guns, defensive wizzards & clutch performers. NY has always been famous for depth and power. Where is it heading into '10? Yanks treading thin. One or two key early injuries can sink 2010 hopes.
Projected rotation: Sabathia, Burnett, Vasquez, Pettitte, Chamberlain.
Bullpen: Questions return heading into camp. Depth was lost here too. Starting pitchers must go at least 7 innings consistently or games will be lost in middle innings.
Forecast: It's a 3 team race between NY, Boston & Tampa Bay. NY's hopes rest on starting rotation.

Boston Red Sox (95-67, Wild Card)
Key additions: Adrian Beltre, Mike Cameron, John Lackey, Marco Scutaro, Bill Hall,
Key losses: Jason Bay, Nick Green, Takashi Saito.
I like the pieces GM Theo Epstein put in place heading into camp. Heavy depth at all positions. Solid batting lineup. Solid defense. Many think lineup will hit for less power. I'm not one of the many. Sox lineup will spread extra base hitting potential 1 thru 9. Plus, it's a lineup of smart players all capable of blasting double digit dingers. Francona is one of baseball's best field general's and his arsenol has been restocked 3 deep at nearly every position. Dangerous team if pitching rotation can stay healthy.
Projected rotation: Josh Beckett, John Lackey, Jon Lester, Daisuke Matsuzaka, Tim Wakefield.
Bullpen: Plenty of arms competing for jobs. Papelbon is as good as they come.
Forecast: This is a very solid, perhaps great, team if pitchers stay off DL.

Tampa Bay Rays (84-78)
Key additions: Dan Johnson, Kelly Shoppach, Rafael Soriano.
Key losses: Akinori Iwamura.
2008 AL champs stumbled in April and May last year (23-27). Lost was clutch performances all around from pitchers to hitters. Solid young starting staff is in place for years to come. Bullpen remains iffy. Lineup can put up runs in bunches. BJ Upton had a miserable '09 both in the field and at the plate. Mental lapses piled up on one of baseball's best young talents. He's key if Rays are to be successful. A complete team effort needed by all players if Rays are to challenge in one of baseball's strongest divisions.
Projected rotation: James Shields, Matt Garza, David Price, Jeff Niemann, ???
Bullpen: Rafael Soriano is the new closer (27 of 31 saves in '09). Relievers ruined a promising '09 after Tampa's World Series run of '08. Many new faces competing for jobs this spring.
Forecast: All depends on pitching and regaining '08 timely hitting. Tough division but Rays will give New York and Boston a run for their money. I'll reserve opinions until TB's final roster is in place. As of now, another 3rd place finish is on the way.

Toronto Blue Jays (75-87)
Key additions: John Buck, Alex Gonzalez, Kyle Drabek, Kevin Gregg.
Key losses: Roy Halladay, Marco Scutaro, Kevin Millar, Brandon League.
One has to feel for Cito Gaston. Toronto's future is in limbo. Plenty of question marks surround this team beginning with health issues. Gaston's club might be competitive but nobody is counting on the Jays contending. Their lineup has potential to put up runs. Defense doesn't appear to be an issue right now. On the other hand, pitchers might get battered all year long. Kyle Drabek was their biggest acquisition. Everyone is high on this kids future. It might take a year or two? Or, will he be a rookie phenom? It'll be too hard keeping up with the Jones' this year and expect bigger contracts to be dealt early due to lackluster home gate receipts.
Projected rotation: It's anyone's guess.
Bullpen: Jason Frasor appears set to lead the relievers. Bullpen injuries have destroyed Toronto in recent campaigns. It's not looking much better right not either.
Forecast: Sometimes it's easier to perform well when everyone expects the worst. 100 losses on the way.

Baltimore Orioles (64-98)
Key additions: Miguel Tejada, Kevin Millwood, Mike Gonzalez, Garrett Atkins.
Key losses: Danys Baez, Melvin Mora, Chris Ray.
Look out baseball world. Can it be the Baltimore Orioles future is looking brighter than it has in recent memory? Yes! They're not ready to contend just yet unless they pull a Rays or Rockies season out of a hat. But, they're getting closer. Defense will improve. Batting lineup looking solid. Tejada is back and projected to start at 3B even though I personally think he should start at SS with Wigginton holding down the fort at 3B. O's eyes will be on developing future catching star Matt Wieters who must master handling a young pitching staff. O's rotation leaves much to be desired. Team officials seem high on their young hurlers with a new look defense backing them up.
Starting rotation: Kevin Millwood, Jeremy Guthrie, Brian Matusz, ???
Bullpen: Mike Gonzalez gets first crack at closing games. He struggled to save 10 of 17 last year but is only a few seasons removed for 24 of 24. He needs to get the job done or it's going to be another long year in Baltimore. It'll be a wide open field trying to secure pitching slots before spring training ends.
Forecast: The future is bright. O's will show brief flashes and shouldn't be taken for granted. Playing .500 baseball will be a major accomplishment for a franchise seeking their first winning season since 1997.

Plenty of headlines will come from AL East action. Obvious off season winners restocking quality players was Boston. Can their rotation go stride for stride with Yanks big guns? Can Tampa rekindle '08 magic? It's a three team race to the finish. As of this moment, my gut tells me Boston, New York, Tampa, Baltimore, Toronto. We'll see how I feel when rosters are finalized. Stay tuned.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

New Orleans Saints are NFL Champions! Baseball spring training begins this month. NBA, NHL, NCAA races are heating up. Danica Patrick splashed into the NASCAR scene. She'll rev up again this weekend in Daytona. PGA Tour not missing a beat.

Power ranking time. Here's how they look in my book.

NBA
1- LA Lakers (40-13)
2- Cleveland (41-11)
3- Orlando (35-17)
4- Boston (32-17)
5- Utah (31-18)
6- Denver (34-17)
7- Dallas (32-10)
8- Atlanta (32-17)
9- Phoenix (31-21)
10-San Antonio (29-21)

NCAA Men's
1- Kansas (22-1)
2- Syracuse (23-1)
3- Kentucky (22-1)
4- Villanova (20-2)
5- Purdue (19-3)
6- West Virginia (19-3)
7- Duke (19-4)
8- Kansas State (19-4)
9- Tennesee (19-4)
10-Brigham Young (22-3)

NHL
1- Washington (41-12-6)
2- San Jose (39-11-9)
3- Chicago (38-15-5)
4- New Jersey (36-20-2)
5- Vancouver (35-20-2)
6- Phoenix (36-19-5)
7- LA Kings (36-20-3)
8- Pittsburgh (35-22-2)
9- Colorado (33-17-6)
10-Ottawa (33-22-4)

MLB
1- Boston Red Sox
2- Philadelphia Phillies
3- New York Yankees
4- Tampa Bay Rays
5- Los Angeles Dodgers
6- Minnesota Twins
7- Seattle Mariners
8- LA Angels
9- St Louis Cardinals
10-Texas Rangers

NFL (final)
1- New Orleans
2- Indianapolis
3- Minnesota
4- San Diego
5- NY Jets
6- Dallas
7- Green Bay
8- Philadelphia
9- Cincinnati
10-Arizona

Coming soon. Winners & losers during baseball's off-season.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Super Bowl XLIV promises to be a fast paced shootout featuring two of NFL's top offenses. Peyton Manning vs Drew Brees. Each team might score 30+ points. On paper, I'd say these two teams will set a new Super Bowl record for points scored. Big scoring plays should be plentiful.

Peyton Manning, Colts - 4 NFL MVP's, 1 Super Bowl Championship, 50,000+ career passing yards, 366 TD's, lifetime 95.2 passer rating. Colts win or lose on his golden right arm. He calls most Colts offensive plays. He'll need 400 yards of precision passing to win.

Drew Brees, Saints - 2009 NFL best 109.6 passer rating, 4 consecutive 4300+ yard seasons, 15-2 as starter in '09 (includes 2 playoff wins), threw TD's to 10 different players.

Prediction: Weather will cooperate. Clear skies, 60 degrees predicted. Both teams come out firing. Ball control is key. Interrupting passing patterns key for both defenses. Protecting the ball extremely important for offenses. Saints take first half lead into locker room, 28-24. Saints lead at end of 3rd quarter, 38-31. Manning dominates 4th quarter.... Colts win, 45-41.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Rookie head coach Jim Caldwell and his Colts have played clutch all season long. Indianapolis is one win from their second Super Bowl victory in four years (2006). Ironically, their opponent Sunday was one win from becoming the Colts opponent in the '06 game.

Indy rises and falls on the right arm of future Hall of Fame QB Peyton Manning. He's the Commander in Chief. His ever changing signals at the line keep defenses guessing. Even when they guess right Manning finds a way to get the job done. Fourth quarter comebacks are his specialty. Indy had plenty of close calls but usually found a way to victory (14-2). Playoff football has been near perfect with convincing wins over stingy Baltimore and New York.

How can the Colts slow down New Orleans? It won't be easy. Sentiment from fans seems to be on the Saints side. Hardly anyone I know seems to be rooting for the Colts. We should be treated to a great Super Bowl this weekend. Here's what the Colts must do to bring home another Lombardy Trophy....

Keys to Victory - Offense: Patience. Patience not to abandon running attack. Patience by Manning when passing lanes are jammed. If the Colts line can open up running lanes then Manning will have plenty of opportunities to lead long time consuming drives. Offense must protect the ball at all costs.

Keys to Victory - Defense: Dwight Freeney, Dwight Freeney, Dwight Freeney. Everyone has left Indy for dead without defensive star Dwight Freeney. All inquiring minds want to know if the Colts can step up? Rumors now speculating he'll play but there's no way he'll be effective in a fast paced game with a bum ankle. Colts only chance slowing down Brees is to keep plays in front of them... don't allow speedy Saints WR's to roam downfield. Saints run best from spread formations. Colts D doesn't match up well vs NFL's #1 offense. They only faced one, maybe two, high powered attacks all season. Saints fast pace could overwhelm these guys. Winning the turnover battle is the biggest key to slowing down Brees & Co. Lack of turnovers will most likely spell defeat.

Keys to Victory - Special Teams: Nothing exciting to write home about when it comes to Colts special teams play. They're not great at covering kicks. Not so hot returning punts and kickoffs. I'm expecting Saints returners to create great field position if given chances. Punter Pat McAfee really needs to angle kicks and keep New Orleans pinned deep. Advantage Saints.

Stay tuned for Super Bowl predictions.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Who Dat? New Orleans Saints (13-3) players are having the football season of their lives. A franchise best 13 wins, first NFC title, energized their rebuilding city, and now, a chance to win their very first Super Bowl. New Orleans football history is filled with highs and bag-headed lows since the Saints began play in 1967. They're riding a high now. Is it their time to win it all?

Head coach Sean Payton has all systems firing. A prolific offense led by Drew Brees and an opportunistic defense capable of making game changing plays. His biggest challenge on Sunday will be keeping his young team focused. Which way will he go with game planning? Will it be a big play day of stretching wide receivers deep down field vs an Indianapolis defense deficient in pass coverage? Or, will he choose a more patient time consuming strategy aimed at keeping Peyton Manning off the field of play?

Keys to Victory - Offense: Line needs to play huge. If Brees has time to find streaking receivers then they can score 45+ with quick strike plays. Who will be the go to guy at running back? Reggie Bush is getting all the press this week. His speed will open up great matchups out of the backfield on passing plays. Saints wide receivers are fast. They must avoid drops as every missed opportunity could soon become a game changer. Brees - one never knows how a QB will handle "The Big Game" pressures? He needs to stay calm and not force throws. Protect the ball at all times.

Keys to Victory - Defense: Is there really any way to contain Peyton Manning? There's only one way I see New Orleans being able to slow down the Colts offense. The defensive line has to disrupt Manning's timing. Stunts, bull rushes, zone blitzes, all of the above. Every once in a while he'll force one and New Orleans defensive backs will have to come up big. Keeping the defense fresh (stamina) is huge for both teams. This game could turn into a shoot out. Whichever teams D gets burnt first will spell doom and gloom.

Keys to Victory - Special Teams: Reggie Bush always seems one play away from breaking off a long touchdown. Last season he returned 3 punts all the way. None in 2009 with a low 4.8 average/return. Kickoff returns will be handled by Courtney Roby who boasts as 27.5 average. Thomas Morstead hopes not to be used but will be ready to boom a few punts when his number is called. Place kicking is a potential hazard. Garrett Hartley is unproven. Get ready for pressure kicks kiddo.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Does Terrell Owens ever sit still long enough to realize how many dumb statements come flying out of his mouth? I've never understood how many professional analysts continue to call T.O. one of the games greatest. On paper, Owens statistics generally look very good. That is, until one scratches the surface. He's always among league leaders in passes dropped. Fans in San Francisco, Philadelphia, Dallas and Buffalo had to be sick to their stomachs watching T.O. drop passes then gleefully prance back toward the huddle (or sidelines). He's sideline rants, continuous bad mouthing teammates, poor practice routine, disrespect for coaches etc keeps his status far from one of the games best in my book.

Now here we are. It's Pro Bowl weekend in Miami. Super Bowl XLIV next Sunday. Maybe Owens was feeling lonely or far from the spotlight. His latest out of left field comments were reported Jan 28th....

"I know hands-down I'd be close to Jerry Rice's records if I had been with quality quarterbacks like he had. He had Joe Montana and he finished with Steve Young. That wasn't a dropoff.

"Say I had been with a guy like Tom Brady, Peyton Manning or Drew Brees all of my career. Are you kidding me?"

Hey T.O.... are you kidding us? You've played with Steve Young, Jeff Garcia, Donovan McNabb, Tony Romo. Young is Hall of Fame material. Garcia an All Pro. McNabb All Pro. Romo All Pro. All loved throwing the ball. Perhaps Terrell dropping so many passes, especially in key 3rd & 4th down situations, soured the confidence of QB's? Yet, year after year, he talks down to teammates. Has sideline temper tantrums. Disrespects teammates.

T.O. has always come across as a 'why me?', 'why not me?', attention seeker. Complaining all the time is probably his most well known attribute. Once again, his selfish style of play on and off the field stands out above all else. It reeks of insecurity. Grow up T.O.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFL All Pro game begins in a few moments. Are this years reps really a "All Pro's". Players who will actually participate in on field action are hardly all stars. Not by a long shot.

14 starters will not be playing as Super Bowl players are not allowed to take the field. However, it's mandatory they show up and watch from the sidelines. First, they're penalized by not being allowed to play. Then, financially penalized by NFL if they opt to skip mandatory sideline pacing.

Next, 17 players will miss the contest due to injury. So who's left? David Garrard and Vince Young will be AFC backup QB's. Maybe next year NFL should go after high school QB's. Not many NFL starting QB's had worse stats than Garrard. Yet, here he is ready to suit up and play.

Needless to say I'm not a fan of the new version of this years All Pro game hosted in Super Bowl city Miami vs usual Hawaii format. All Star games in all sports are a tribute to leagues best players honored by fans and peers. Yes, some of the NFL greats will be playing. Unfortunately, at least for me, not enough and barring players from participating is a personal foul of the highest degree. This is exactly why I firmly believe future games should be played after the Super Bowl.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Super Bowl XLIV sparks memories of past championship games. As I started searching internet archives for little known Super Bowl stories, as told by players, I came across a very fresh interview given by former Dallas Cowboys star defender Darren Woodson on "ESPN's Mike and Mike in the Morning."

One of the questions to Woodson touched on the Buffalo Bills experience advantage over the Cowboys. Remember, Buffalo represented the AFC playing four straight Super Bowls from 1990-93.... losing them all. 1990 was an instant classic as the New York Giants held on for a 20-19 victory after the Bills last second field goal attempt sailed wide right. The following three championship games weren't nearly as kind. Buffalo was blown away in all of them as if they were hung over (1991 vs Washington, 37-24; 1992 vs Dallas 52-17; 1993 vs Dallas 30-13). Guess what? Maybe hung over is the perfect phrase. According to Woodson....

“As much as everyone talked about how much experience the Bills had back then, they partied harder than any other team. That’s all we heard about the entire week in L.A., the (Cowboys) first Super Bowl.

“They (Bills players) were out Wednesday, Thursday, Friday. Couple guys got into altercations in the clubs, older, veteran guys with the Bills.

“Experience doesn’t mean that much, it’s all about leadership. There’s a reason they (Bills) lost four Super Bowls. They partied harder than any other team.”

I've yet to find any Bills players refuting this story. I'll bet quite a few will in coming days. It did seem odd how easily the Bills lost their final three appearances. Then again, they ran into buzz saws. Washington was very strong but many thought Buffalo should have performed better (especially defensively). They were slow, gave up uncharacteristic big plays and seemed off. Against Dallas, Bills RB Thurman Thomas seemed afraid to play. During one strange moment he claims to have lost (or forgot) his helmet. Nonetheless, Dallas was far better prepared and hungrier for victory.

Buffalo players weren't the only team partying hard Super Bowl week. Atlanta Falcons Eugene Robinson was arrested on the eve before the big game vs Denver for soliciting a prostitute. San Diego players were spotted in nightclubs throughout Miami. Cincinnati Bengals and Oakland Raiders had players fail to show up.. and the list goes on....

Was Woodson's statement truth or fairytale? Funny how Buffalo's saga never was reported earlier. Funnier yet is a Dallas Cowboys player from that era claiming another team partied harder than they did! Anyone out there remember "The White House" in Dallas? Or, the multiple incidents from DWI, drugs, prostitutes, fights etc which used to surround the Cowboys during their heyday?

Where was Bills team leadership in the days approaching Super Bowl Sunday? Four consecutive Super Bowl appearances. Four consecutive Super Bowl losses. Don't tell me losses were due to partying fools. I'd rather go on believing they were simply outclassed on the gridiron.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

What is up with the lack of publicity for Super Bowl XLIV? Two great teams (Indianapolis vs New Orleans), two great QB's (Manning vs Brees) and, two great coaches leading their conferences best teams. So, what gives?

Ever since the final gun sounded ending the NFC Championship most talk quickly shifted to whether or not Brett Favre will call it a career (again) or, should he come back for another try? Toss in Arizona's QB Warner should I stay or go attitide (expected to retire momentarily).

Ah yes, there has been some Super Bowl chatter. It mostly involves University of Florida QB Tim Tebow. He's filmed a pro-life commercial set to air during the Super Bowl on CBS. CBS has been under heavy, heavy criticism for accepting to run the ad during the game. Tremendous political and activist pressure has been screaming to "kill" the commercial. Abortion supporters have taken issue with Tebow's story. In short, when his mom was pregnant she was advised to end her pregnancy due to complications. She refused. Result: Tim Tebow. Now he wants to tell his story. It's an American dream trying to be sabotaged by activist radicals.

Super Bowl silence... can you hear it?

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Another one bites the dust. Make it two. NBA Commissioner Stern suspended two Washington Wizards players for their roles in a lockerroom gun incident. Gilbert Arenas and Javaris Crittenton can now duel it out at home without pay. Sometimes it makes one wonder how a select few professional athletes can be so dumb.

The backstory is a bit muted. Rumors claimed both players had guns in the lockerroom when Arenas pulled his out over a gambling debt. Crittenton responded in kind. Two teammates pulling guns on each other. Plus, throw gambling into the mix and it's a wonder how it took Commish Stern so long to hand down an official league punishment. Arenas made his troubles worse by trying to turn this into a joke immediately following the incident by making finger pointing gun motions at teammates during pre-game. Joking it up on Twitter didn't make Stern all that happy either.

Local law enforcement has been all over this episode. Yahoo! Sports and the New York Post, both citing unidentified sources, reported the investigation takes aim at Crittenton too. The Post printed Crittenton became angry at Arenas for refusing to make good on a gambling related debt prompting Arenas to draw on Crittenton, who then reached for his own gun. D.C. gun laws are strict. Expect this story to resurface in a few weeks.

Arenas & Crittenton might help revive old slang. "Dumb jock" seems to be a virus rapidly spreading to unsuspecting athletes. Is there no cure?

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

AFC
New York Jets (9-7) @ Indianapolis Colts (14-2)
There's plenty of new and old history surrounding this game. It was Broadway Joe Namath who led his Jets to Super Bowl III victory over Don Shula's heavily favored NFL best Baltimore Colts. It was the AFC's 1st SB win and put the league on the map.
In my book, the Jets would be sitting home right now having missed the playoffs if it wasn't for Colts head coach pulling all of his key starting players in week 15 instead of letting his team play for a perfect 16-0 season. Indy will now play the team they let into the playoffs. Will AFC's top team lose again to the Jets?

Keys to victory:
Colts Offense: It's all about MVP Peyton Manning's ability to read the Jets swarming defense. Pre-snap reads have never been more important as Colts square off vs NFL's top defense.
Offensive line must pick up multiple looks coming from Jets oft blitzing D.

Colts Defense: If the Colts want to win this game they must shut down the Jets running game. Jets will try playing keep-a-way from Manning which means they will try running early and often. Putting pressure on rookie QB Sanchez in passing situations is vital. They'll need to force Sanchez to make hurried throws.

Jets Offense: All talk surrounding Jets seems to revolve around their killer defense. However, if the Jets are to have any shot at knocking off Indy their offensive line must dominate. Everything else goes out the window if New York cannot control the clock and keep the ball out of Manning's hands. Running attack, if successful, will then open up plenty of play action pass situations.

Jets Defense: CB Revis has shut down every top wide receiver he lines up against. Coach Rex Ryan will need to cleverly disguise blitz packages to keep Manning off balance. If they can force three and outs and/or turnovers then expect a very close contest.

Prediction: Indy never should have given up on chasing a perfect season. It was theirs for the taking. Because of a bad coaching decision, the Jets are in the AFC Championship Game. And, they'll win.... 24-20.

NFC
Minnesota Vikings (12-4) @ New Orleans Saints (13-3)
Brett Favre vs Drew Brees. NFC's top two QB's go head to head. It's about more than these two super QB's even if headlines and news stories haven't gone deep enough evaluating this matchup.

Keys to victory:
Saints Offense: Brees throws to everyone and anyone who can get open. Big test Sunday vs very aggressive purple defense. Running game is key to opening up passing lanes. Passing game is key to opening up running lanes. Brees will test Vikes defense deep early and often.

Saints Defense: They'll have to disrupt Favre and get him to force throws. Then, there's the Adrian Peterson factor. Saints can get into his head by forcing the fumble prone star to cough up the pigskin.

Vikings Offense: Favre needs to stay calm, cool and collected. His past playoff failures are largely due to his attempting to force passes into tight coverage instead of throwing it away for another play. Peterson must protect the ball. Offensive line needs to play their best game of the year for the ground game to take hold.

Vikings Defense: Minnesota will have their hands full. How do they prepare to stiffle Brees and Co? For most of the year Saints WR's have been creating havoc against opposing secondaries by streaking downfield.

Prediction: It'll be a shootout which might come down to whoever has the ball last wins. Both teams confidence is riding high after blowout playoff wins last weekend. Favre has been here before. Vikings are hungry.... Minnesota 34 Saints 30.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

There's been plenty of action lately in all major sports. Baseball players and teams finalizing contracts/rosters prepping for spring training. NBA's top teams jockey for position while bottom half plays spoilers. NHL's Islanders getting hot for 1st time this decade. #1 Texas was stunned in college hoops. Jets advance to AFC title game. Favre vs Brees to decide NFC champ. Time to list my top ten power rankings...

MLB
Yankees
Phillies
Red Sox
Dodgers
Rockies
Mariners
Angels
Giants
Cardinals
Twins

NBA
LA Lakers
Boston
Cleveland
Dallas
San Antonio
Atlanta
Orlando
Denver
Portland
(no team qualifies for #10)

NCAA
Kentucky
Texas
Kansas
Villanova
Syracuse
Pittsburgh
BYU
Duke
Michigan State
Tennessee

NFL
Indianapolis
New Orleans
Minnesota
San Diego
Green Bay
Dallas
Philadelphia
Jets
Baltimore
Arizona

NHL
New Jersey
Chicago
Washington
Buffalo
San Jose
Pittsburgh
Colorado
Vancouver
Phoenix
Nashville

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

NFL Pro Bowl style has a new look for 2010. This years game will be played one week before the Super Bowl in Miami instead of one week after in Hawaii. It's something new as the NFL attempts to attract more viewers.

Personally, I couldn't be more against this new setup for one simple reason. NFL players voted to All Pro squads who will also be playing in the Super Bowl are not allowed to participate. This is the main reason why I do not believe the Pro Bowl should be played before the Super Bowl. What's the point voting in players who cannot play by rule? Mind you there's no way in the world I would want one of my players risking injury before the Super Bowl which is precisely why the Pro Bowl must be played one week later, as always. It's current set up for this year (January 31) penalizes players who earned the right to represent their teams and fans who voted to see their favorite players suit up.

We're down to NFL's final four teams loaded with potential players not allowed to play if their teams reach the Super Bowl. What's wrong with this picture? A replacement cast of characters in the Pro Bowl? Super Bowl stars standing around on the sidelines? What's the point of playing? Money. Simply put, this is all about money. NFL will generate much more by scheduling both Pro and Super Bowl games in Miami. More hands on fans (coupled with Super Bowl week), NFL gambling on larger tv viewing audience, double revenues for Miami. If the NFL really wanted to bulk up their tv viewing audience then they should consider ditching special game rules. Since this is a showcase game the NFL has been very careful attempting to protect players from injuries by implimenting special rules barring blitzes and certain formations (probably a good idea). To make this game truly great then let the best of the best square off in straight up battle to bring meaning to these games. It won't happen. So since this will always be an exhibition game then return it to one week after the Super Bowl. Let all healthy starters play and drop Hawaii for stateside games in domed stadiums different from Super Bowl hosts.

Ok, enough critiquing. Here's my selections for AFC & NFC starters based on best players/position (reserves, replacement players excluded).

AFC
QB - Peyton Manning (Indy)
RB - Chris Johnson (Ten)
FB - Le'Ron McClain (Balt)
WR - Wes Welker (NE), Andre Johnson (Hou)
TE - Dallas Clark (Indy)
C - Nick Mangold (NYJ)
G - Alan Faneca (NYJ), Kris Dielman (SD)
T - D'Brickshaw Ferguson (NYJ), Jake Long (Mia)

DE - Dwight Freeney (Indy), Robert Mathis (Indy)
DT - Halati Ngata (Balt), Vince Wolfork (NE)
LB - Ray Lewis (Balt), James Harrison (Pit), Elvis Dumervil (Den)
CB - Darrelle Revis (NYJ), Nnamdi Asomugha (Oak)
FS - Ed Reed (Balt)
SS - Brian Dawkins (Den)

P - Shane Lechler (Oak)
K - Nate Kaedling (SD) ... almost dropped him after watching 0-3 choke vs Jets yesterday.
PR - Josh Cribbs (Cle)
KR - Josh Cribbs (Cle)

Coach - Jim Caldwell (Indy)

NFC
QB - Drew Brees (NO), Brett Favre (Min) (tie)
RB - Steven Jackson (StL)
FB - Leonard Weaver (Phi)
WR - Larry Fitzgerald (AZ), Steve Smith (NYG)
TE - Vernon Davis (SF)
C - Andre Gurode (Dal)
G - Steve Huchinson (Min), Jahri Evans (NO)
T - Bryant McKinney (Min), Jason Peters (Phi)

DE - Jared Allen (Min), Trent Cole (Phi)
DT - Kevin Williams (Min), Jay Ratliff (Dal)
LB - Jonathan Vilma (NO), DeMarcus Ware (Dal), Patrick Willis (SF)
CB - Asante Samuel (Phi), Charles Woodson (GB)
FS - Darren Sharper (NO)
SS - Adrian Wilson (AZ)

P - Ben Graham (AZ)
K - Ryan Longwell (Min)
PR - DeSean Jackson (Phi)
KR - Percy Harvin (Min)

Coach - Sean Payton (NO)

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Baseball's steroids issues aren't going away anytime soon. Mark McGwire's recent admission re-ignited the swirling controversy of one of baseball's biggest black eyes. Many steroid era players are now eligible for Hall of Fame consideration. They're going to have a tough time gaining admittance, rightfully so.

Who were some of the good guys during this deviant time? One by one, guilt by association seems to rule the day. Here's my Non-Roids All Stars based on players not mentioned in the nasty controversy. It wasn't an easy task since most are now under a cloud of suspicion. Here's what I came up with...

1B- Fred McGriff
2B- Roberto Alomar
3B- Cal Ripken, Jr.
SS- Derek Jeter
OF- Tony Gwynn
OF- Ken Griffey, Jr.
OF- Paul O'Neill
DH- Bernie Williams
C- Charles Johnson
SP- Greg Maddux
RP- Mariano Rivera

Let's hope this select group of baseball good guys names remain free and clear of PED suspicions.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Here come the Chiefs. Kansas City is wasting no time by quickly rebuilding for future success. New general manager, new offensive coordinator, new defensive coordinator. What do these three (GM Pioli, OC Charlie Weiss, DC Roman Crennel) all have in common? They're the New England connnection who contributed heavily to the Patriots monster years from 2002-05 (3 Super Bowl Titles).

Everything about Kansas City football is about to improve on and off the field of play. Draft day planning suddenly gets exciting for these guys. On offense, Charlie Weiss is one of the best. The defense better perform if they want to play for new defensive coordinator Crennel.

The Chiefs have been one of NFL's best franchises until recent struggles. They've been a fun team to watch over the years but it's been rough going ever since Dick Vermeil retired. My favorite years for KC was during Marty Schottenheimer's tenure.

Let's see what the Chiefs can do with their new staff.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Green Bay vs Arizona was quite the show last Sunday. Cards won 51-45 on a defensive play in OT! So how will Arizona vs New Orleans shape up Saturday afternoon? Will Favre & Co. be too much for red hot Dallas to handle? Jets D vs a Chargers team on a mission? Is Peyton ready for more 4th quarter heroics vs a stingy Ravens D? Time to toss my two cents into predicting this weekends games.

(Saturday)
Cardinals @ Saints: Arizona's coming off a thrilling OT win vs Green Bay, 51-45. Was it a preview for what's next? At times, the Saints can score at will. Both teams have top notch QB's and WR's. Defensive edge is probably says advantage Saints. Take your pick in this one. New Orleans should win but we're talking about the still not respected Cards who surprised everyone last year by coming within one play of winning the Super Bowl. Not many gave them a shot last week. Not many are giving them a shot this week. Guess what? They'll put up points again.
Arizona 38 New Orleans 34

Ravens @ Colts: MVP Manning's 4th quarter performances have been nothing short of spectacular. He'll have his hands full against a very aggressive Ravens defense. These teams squared off back on November 22nd. Indy won on a late 4th qtr field goal, 17-15. I'm thinking it'll be another very tight game.
Indianapolis 24 Baltimore 20

(Sunday)
Cowboys @ Vikings: Here's my favorite matchup in this round. Dallas is red hot. Romo's looking great and Dallas defense has played especially well in three consecutive contests. Minnesota has weapons at every offensive position with plenty of depth to boot. Vikings defense is equally tough. Favre had been struggling down the stretch until unleashing hell vs Giants. Minnesota is too tough at home. Adrian Peterson will have a huge statistical game leading the Vikes to victory.
Minnesota 33 Dallas 27

Jets @ Chargers: Jets defense is NFL's best. They can shut down anyone. On Sunday, New York's D needs to score points too. San Diego's offense is too good. Jets offense not good enough to keep up. Turnovers is the key. Chargers win but never bet against the Jets. They're not here by accident.
San Diego 23 New York 10

(www.allworldallsports.com)

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Is anyone surprised to hear Mark McGwire finally admit what most already knew? Big Mac came clean to speak of the past by confirming he was another baseball playing steroid junkie. So why now? Why should anyone care after years of denials? There are a few reasons some should care, especially Hall of Fame voters. So, I'm going to shake a stick at McGwire's confession.

First off, McGwire missed the mark. For me he comes across as a former drunk telling people he used to drink while wondering why he went to bars. No kidding. Somehow, this dillusional guy is trying to tell people steroid use didn't help his ability to hit homeruns two seconds after telling us all how he needed steroids to recover from various injuries. Really? What about the most obvious fact hardly anyone isn't telling you? Mac was only able to suit up because steroids sped up, or helped get over, injuries when most other players might have been forced into retirement or perform below expected capabilities. Of course steroid's helped hit home runs. Just from the simple fact he was able to play.

Next up, he claims not wanting to get bulked up like Governor Arnold or The Hulk. Give us all a break. Has anyone viewed pictures of Big Mac as a rookie? And, then as Bigger than Big Mac during the Roger Maris chase? What made me sick most of all after hitting number 62* was the press conference when he nearly came to tears hoping the record breaking bat would be placed next to Maris' bat in Cooperstown. Mac and Sosa, two overly inflated muscle heads, were media darlings while chasing Maris. Baseball honored them as men who saved the game from ruin after then recent set backs and strikes. It was a complete sham. I suspect, and previously blogged, the Commissioner of Baseball knew full well there was a dire steroid abuse problem rapidly spreading across MLB. Selig has denied it all the way even after former players came forward and even when BALCO first came to light. His bat should be forever banned from the Hall as a symbol to followers so history never repeats in this instance.

No one can ever know for sure how Mark McGwire's career would have turned out had steroid abuse never become an issue. He was a home run hitter before PED's came into play. His 49 as a rookie rewrote history books. He never did come close to 49 again until coming in contact with steroids. He was oft injured. Using was soon becoming the norm with players. Not only for those in need of body repairs but, also for those looking to further careers, better statiscal production, and yes, for the money!

One thing is clearly evident. No way would Mac have hit 583 career home runs. Denying steroid's helped hit homeruns isn't believable and nobody should fall for it. Check this: 1988-1991 he averaged 152 games/played and 31.5 home runs/season. 1993 he played only 27 games, 1994 only 47. This is the time frame when he was recovering and juicing. Well, well, well... guess what happened upon Mark's return to live action? 39 round trippers in only 109 games followed up by 52 & 58 in consecutive seasons (96/97). Is he trying to fool the public into thinking it wasn't about home runs. He had come within 3 home runs of tying baseball's once golden home run record. Is he really telling us he wasn't using more often, trying to get stronger, bigger, quicker swing in an attempt to break an ever elusive 61? It's a joke. Stats prove it too. 1996-99 averaged 149 games/season adn an unreal 61.25 home runs/season including 70 and 65 in 98 & 99. During the record breaking 1998 season a bottle of androstenedione was found in his locker (an over-the-counter muscle enhancement product that had already been banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency, the NFL and the IOC). No it wasn't banned at the time but alarm bells should've been ringing. It wasn't only Mac. Plenty of others were suspect. Now we know, again. Baseball from top to bottom and bottom to top knew all along and were complicite as an entity of covering up. Nobody cared when paying customers filled ballparks and baseball owners pockets.

Back to my earlier question. Why is Mac trying to come clean now? Two reasons. The Cardinals recently re-signed Mac as their hitting instructor so it makes perfect sense from an organizational side to get it over with now before spring camp opens. Plus, manager LaRussa has openly wondered aloud of activating McGwire August 31 for late season and playoff eligibility. Might as well have the distraction out of the way now. Second, in my eye's it's really all about one thing and one thing only.... I offer no proof other than Mac's former actions are repeating once again. It's only about the Hall of Fame, period. Here's my analysis. 58 home runs came so very close to breaking baseball's home run record. Mac did anything he could to get past a record which had stood since 1961. A coveted number only a few had even remotely approached. So, Mac did what he had to... "cheat"... artificially pump up his body and his ability. In 1998, 70 home runs shattered the record. Soon to be broken again by another body swelling Barry Bonds. History repeats, and it's doing so now. Mac now wants into the Hall badly. His rep forever tarnished by Congressional testimony and questions. Legacy tarnished badly enough only 20% of votes. Just as he had done chasing after Maris & 61... he's now coming clean to do everything possible get in. Just wait and see. Here was a guy who tried avoiding interviews and the spotlight since retiring. Now, he's going to transparently suck up to sportswriters nationwide. Suddenly, Mac will be doing interview after interview as the Cards travel from city to city. Just to cozy up to the voting sportswriters hoping and praying for enough votes to a Hall of Fame nod.

McGwire and Pete Rose denied when 99% knew they were covering up past actions. Why? To make the Hall of Fame. If sportswriters ever vote this guy in they're rewarding and creating new outside the lines type of players. Steroids era players should have a very difficult time getting HOF votes and rightfully so. Guilty by association for some? Yes, sobeit. Steroids era represents many things. Perhaps most of all the game is guilty of not protecting itself from outside influences. Non-using players guilty of not protecting the game and deserve harder scrutiny as enablers of this tarnished period of baseball history.

(www.allworldallsports.com)

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Spring Training is one month away. Major League Baseball owners have been very slow to sign free agents leaving players wondering (or worrying) where, or if, they'll play in 2010. The state of our economy and how it's effected teams/owners bottom lines may be factoring into why so many talented players remain without jobs. Or, is it? America's favorite pasttime has never been a stranger to controversy. Owners colluding has been famously proven in years past. Is it resurfacing again? To contradict many blogs I've been reading my answer is no.

Owners are concerned as economic trends remain worrisome. Some MLB teams have clamped down. Tightening their purse strings at any cost. Big market teams in New York, Boston and LA continue to spend as they see fit. Smaller market, less competitive teams continue to struggle with dwindling gate receipts and escalating costs. There's one team with perennial lackluster attendance cellar dwellers spending more than most anticipated. Ironicly, they're based in Washington! The Washington Nationals have opened their piggy banks by signing veteran All Star catcher Ivan Rodriguez (2 years, $6M hoping he can settle down one of baseball's most pathetic and oft injured pitching staffs. Throw in Jason Marquis (2 years, $12M) plus Mike Capps (1 year, $3M) and it may appear as though the Nationals are finally trying to build a competitive team. Seattle Mariners have been busy too making blockbuster trades and key additions as they see a clear opportunity to challenge in the AL West.

I remain completely surprised so many talented players remain unsigned when a majority of teams need help. Taking a look at some of these remaing free agent notables: Jermaine Dye, Vlad Guerrero, Aubry Huff, Miguel Tejada, Jon Garland, Johnny Damon, Rick Ankiel, Orlando Hudson, Rod Barajas, Russell Branyan, Orlando Cabrera, Felipe Lopez. These names represent a few of what I call potential impact players ready to contribute. Perhaps their asking prices are too high. A few haven't even been offered deals. Most surprising to me isn't the lack of bigger named signings outside of Dye & Tejada. Not by a longshot. It's the lack of activity surrounding more versatile guys and starting pitchers. Here's the complete list of available free agents listed on ESPN.com

Time is ticking. Pre-season games begin in March. I expect there to be a flurry of activity as spring training is only weeks away. Time will tell.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Just a few thoughts off the top of my head with one week of the new year barely completed.

Hats off the College Football's new National Champion Alabama Crimson Tide. What happened to Colt McCoy? This kids draft stock is on serious hold in my eyes. The biggest game of his young football career and he didn't have the guts to come back out onto the field. You have to feel for his Texas Longhorns teammates who played a great game to just stay close until Alabama pulled away late. For those who missed it, QB McCoy was hit during Texas' 2nd series. He immediately went to the sidelines never to return. Apparently, all the hubbub is over a pinched nerve. It didn't seem too severe when McCoy was jumping around the sidelines after halftime. Buck up kid. Be a man. At the very least, he should have tried playing at least a few snaps. He did not look hurt. Flashbacks of Thurman Thomas Super Bowl chicken out move vs Dallas.

What in the world gets into the heads of pro athletes. Now, it's NBA star Gilbert Arenas who gets brandished a gun. IN THE LOCKERROOM! I give a ton of credit to Commissioner Stern for immediately suspending this nut who was crazy enough to then finger point gun motions at his teammates moments later. A law enforcement investigation is currently underway. Throw the book at him. Maybe Gil's cell will read "Plaxico was here!"

Theo Epstein is quietly rebuilding another tough Red Sox ballclub. 2010 theme is big time defense. Beltre's arrival to man 3B is a nice addition and I'm betting his bat reawakens within Fenway's cozy confines. They may not have enough guns to win the East, but Wild Card is always well within their grasp.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Get ready for serious football action. Thursday night is college football's BCS Championship Game, #1 Alabama Crimson Tide vs #2 Texas Longhorns. Two of the nations perrenial top football programs will go head to head in a winner take all game. Following closely behind, NFL Playoffs kick off with the Wild Card round beginning Saturday. Here's my two cents version of how the games will play out...

BCS

Texas Longhorns (13-0) - Barely challenged by opponents in '09 until beating Nebraska by 1 in the regular season finale 13-12. Nation's 3rd ranked offense led by senior QB Colt McCoy and WR Jordan Shipley will have their hands full vs nation's 2nd ranked Alabama Crimson Tide defense. Texas plays a high powered game featuring speed on both sides of the line. Alabama's offensive line might be the difference maker in this one. If they're able to pound Longhorn defensive line into the ground (no easy task) then Heisman Trophy winner Ingram will have a huge night. Texas LB's will need to play big and they will.

Prediction: Texas 23 Alabama 19

NFL
(Saturday)
Jets (9-7) @ Bengals (10-6): Jets trifecta - rookie coach, rookie qb, NFL #1 defense. Jets defense is NFL's best and will be needed to set up great field position for suspect offense. Chad Ochocinco lost his own challenge and was supposed to change his name back to Chad Johnson (hasn't happened) after being shut out by Jets CB Revis. Chad whoever may get shut out again.
Jets 20 Bengals 9

Eagles (11-5) @ Cowboys (11-5): Cowboys snapped a December dry spell to win NFC East in final game vs Philadelphia. Dallas defense has posted back to back shutouts. I've always been a firm believer in momentum heading into playoff football and Cowboys are hot, hot, hot. Did Eagles defense play possum last weekend? They're a blitz first defense and hardly blitzed Romo last weekend. Expect a very aggressive D this go around. If so, watch out for Romo to Witten as Philly is weak defending TE's running wide open vs blitz schemes.
Cowboys 31 Eagles 20

(Sunday)
Ravens (9-7) @ Patriots (10-6): Ravens are dangerous. Problem is their game is inconsistent on both offense and defense. When they're good, they're good. When bad, they play like crud. I'm expecting Baltimore's D to be very motivated and agressive. Same goes for offense vs Pats weak and exposed secondary. This isn't the same Patriots team which not too long ago dominated games. They won't on Sunday either. Brady lost a key weapon last weekend (Welker). Defense is banged up. Running game has no chance vs Ravens D line. Moss will be double teamed. Belichick needs one heck of a game plan run to perfection if New England is to have any chance on Sundaay afternoon.
Ravens 27 Patriots 17

Packers (11-5) @ Cardinals (10-6): No one gave Arizona any chance heading into last years' opening round playoff game. Guess what? They ended up one play from winning the Super Bowl! I doubt many are giving them much of a shot in this game either. Green Bay is hot and playing great football lately. Their defense has been making big play after big play. On offense, Rodgers is in the zone leading the NFL's 3rd highest scoring offense. Warner won't go easily and is usually money in big games. Young RB Wells will need to play the game of his life and not fumble. Protecting the pigskin is key for turnover happy Cards.
Packers 34 Cardinals 23

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

It's official. After 8 years of wondering and waiting the BBWAA (Baseball Writers Association of America) voted Andre Dawson into the Hall of Fame. Dawson, named on 77.9% of ballots (75% needed for election), was one of the NL's most feared hitters during his 21 year career.

21 year MLB career stats include: 1977 NL Rookie of the Year, 1987 NL MVP, 438 HR, 1591 RBI, .279 BA, 314 SB, 8 time All Star, 8 Gold Gloves.

Debates often rage when it comes to discussing future HOF candidates. Dawson's name was often debated as are many of this years nominee's who failed to garner enough votes (Blyleven, McGwire, Dale Murphy, Edgar Martinez, Alan Trammell, Tim Raines). For me, Dawson's selection was never about why or why not. It was only a question of when? The question has now been answered... 2010.

I was lucky enough to watch Dawson play live many times when his Expos and Cubs played at Shea Stadium. He was a gifted 5 tool player that did it all offensively and defensively playing hurt throughout most of his career. The only knock of his career was a relatively low on base percentage meaning he didn't walk enough (or made too many outs) for the naysayers. However, when he hit, he hit everything hard and was a big time clutch hitter when games were on the line. Defensively, his shot gun right arm not only cut runners down on the base path's but, they would often reconsider attempting to go for an extra base.

Andre Dawson was a man who simply loved to play the game. It wasn't about money as evidenced by his once signing a "blank contract" with the Chicago Cubs. He told Chicago to fill in any amount... he just wanted to play. Dallas Green filled in $500,000 (2nd lowest salary on Cubs) during a period when owners colluded against free agents. Dawson went onto win NL MVP honors posting a career season (49 HR, 137 RBI).

Today's headlines of Andre Dawson... the "Hawk"... finally landing where he belongs in the National Baseball Hall of Fame is great news. Perhaps, next year will finally be Bert Blyleven's turn.

Visit "All World All Sports"

-Digger's Daily-

Happy New Year!

What a great few days of football from college to pro games. It's only gets better from here. Soon a new National Champion will be crowned. Next weekend NFL Playoffs begin.

Here's a little side note from Sunday night's pre-game interview with Chad Ochocinco. Remember, Chad's real last name used to be Johnson before he legally changed to Ochocinco. This week, Ocho has been engaged in lighthearted trash talking of how he was going to beat New York Jets defensive back Revis. One of his twitter posts read as follows:

"I'm coming to the big apple to give NY what they've never seen, an escape inmate gone wild on Revis island. Try and cover me."

Today he took it to a new level. And, if he's a man of his word, Chad Ochocinco will soon be legally re-named Chad Johnson. During the Bengals/Jets pre-game interview Chad stated how Revis couldn't cover him. I guess playing top notch defense vs Randy Moss & Terrell Owens two games each didn't mean much to Chad. Not to mention shutting down nearly every opposing wideout.

Ochocinco's trash talking was all stated in good fun and without malice. He's a colorful character always looking to say or do something on the shocking side to garner attention on and off the field. But, did he go too far tonight? Will Revis call him out? Here's the pregame challenge quote during the Costas interview:

"If Revis were to shut me down, I will change my name back to Johnson. That’s how confident I am. It’s not happening.”

Guess how many catches Mr. Ochocinco recorded Sunday night? ZERO. New York's defense laid it all on the line. A win guaranteed them a playoff birth. They did more than win. It was total domination 37-0. Chad didn't catch a single pass. Revis was all over him from the very first snap.

The question remains.... will Chad honor his word even if spoken in jest and revert back to Johnson?