After a horrendous loss to the Patriots last week, NY Jets fans, players and coaches thought things wouldn't get any worse this week against the Miami Dolphins. In fact, everyone thought the game with Miami would be a statement game. That the Jets would "bounce" back from such a defeat and put it all behind them. They all thought wrong! Yesterday, NY buried themselves next to the Patriots game ball, with another ugly loss to a Division rival. The Jets beat themselves every opportunity they got against the Dolphins. With dropped passes, fumbles, interceptions, missed assignments and a general loss of identity, Gang Green moved themselves further away from playing meaningful games in January. There are so many to blame for the loss. Starting with the coaches. Offensive coordinator, Brian Schottenheimer's play calling yesterday was terrible. He should have went back to the old "ground and pound" game that Rex Ryan loves so much, so that Mark Sanchez could get some spacing with the Play-action calls. Instead, Schottenheimer abandoned the run mostly and had Sanchez throwing like they were down 21 points. The truth is that the defense gave the offense plenty of chances to win, only allowing 10 points. The reality is those 10 points came after crucial turnovers by the offense in Miami's side of the field. The Jets defense kept Chad Henne at bay, giving up a paltry 55 yards passing and the only action that star wide out, Brandon Marshall, saw was his 5 yard TD catch. Basically the Dolphins were begging the Jets to beat them. The Jets however, were unable to recognize the situation they had in front of them and WOULD not capitalize on anything.
Some focal points of the blame:
Aforementioned, Brian Schottenheimer: the play calling didn't do anything for Mark Sanchez's confidence nor did it help him get any momentum going. Shonne Green should have been used much more often, to soften up Miami's defensive line. Then mixing in LT, with some play action passing, should have given the offense some time to make plays.
Offensive Line: This part of the Jets has been the most consistently strong group, that has never really faltered when the big plays were needed. In the past two games they have left Sanchez out there to dry and have given in to the pressure, forcing Sanchez to throw picks, take sacks and cough the ball up. Damien Woody's injury is so crucial, because his back up (Wayne Hunter), the "best back up tackle in football" according to Rex, couldn't block anything. The offensive unit needs to be more prepared, especially with the Pittsburgh "D" lurking next Sunday.
Receivers: The wide receivers for the NY Jets didn't get a lot of opportunities for big plays yesterday, but when they had the ball between the numbers when it counted, they dropped it. The dropped passes happen all the time, but when nothing is working for the offense and one catch makes a difference, those mistakes are highlighted.
Mark Sanchez: HE is the face of the NY Jets. He has to get the support that he needs to stay confident and press on. When Rex Ryan goes on the air after the game and admits to the press that he had considered pulling the kid out during the Miami game yesterday, what does he think will happen to Sanchez's confidence? What good came out of him saying that? Does Rex all of a sudden believe that Sanchez is not the "guy" for the job anymore? Or is Rex trying to put himself in the spotlight? Whatever the reason was for him blabbing that to the press, it's uncalled for. You have to support a sophomore QB that is struggling, even if Rex wanted to pull him, don't say it publicly to the NY media. Unfortunately, Sanchez has struggled so much that he probably should have been pulled to shake him up a bit. Maybe. Sanchez still needs to recognize the defensive schemes and pressure that he is facing and take better care of the ball. He is forcing passes that all could have been or were intercepted. With the help of his coaches, he needs to dial back the plays and return to a more conventional offense, run, run and play action. They have great, veteran receivers and a good running game, that need to be utilized more efficiently. When Sanchez gets some spacing and can drop back and survey the field, he is pretty good. The running game will help support that.
Rex Ryan: This guy is great. He is a huge personality. He is a very smart, defensive coach. He gets his players to believe in him and buy into what he is preaching. Sometimes, he is too much. Maybe, he will spend a little less time this week entertaining the media and more time dissecting the play calling and mistakes from the past games. One of the reasons Belichick is so successful, is that during the season, he doesn't leave much time for goofing around and "relaxing". He leaves that for the off-season. If Rex can attend to business for his team's sake, then maybe they will be more prepared for Pittsburgh.
The Media talk about "panic mode" a lot when teams lose a couple of ugly games. The Jets need to be aware, not panicked, about their situation. They have 3 more games, 2 of them are away at dreadful weather stadiums, against top ranked defenses. If the Jets are not aware of their upcoming schedule and don't make it point to fix the mistakes they have continually made, then a 9-7 record won't do anything except be above .500. Watch the films of the New England wins against Pittsburgh and Chicago and learn about what worked and what didn't. Sanchez is no Brady, but the Jets as a team can compete with the Bears and Steelers. If they can learn anything from New England's wins, maybe the ship can be turned around.
Monday, December 13, 2010
Friday, December 3, 2010
DAILY RANT: 12/3/2010
Again, at least we don't live in Cleveland.....with all of the hype of the return of the "King", Lebron James to his birthplace, when the dust settled, all that was left was a franchise searching for an identity and another one (Miami) finding it. The beat down the the Cavs got from Miami was really just a good team trouncing a sub-par team. The under lying story however, of Lebron going home for the first time is great, it is a fun story for the NBA and for sports reporters and it gives this regular season game more clout. The Cavs had nothing to lose against the Heat and the only way they would put up a fight was going to be strictly from emotions brewing from Lebron being back in OHIO. Unfortunately, fans got about 8 minutes of competitive basketball, because the Miami Heat took care of business early and sustained a 20+ point lead for the entire game. When the cameras flashed images of fans faces during the 2nd and 3rd quarter, it was as if they were reacting to an announcement that the state of Ohio had just lost its identity and became part of Pennsylvania. Fans faces, including owner Dan Gilbert's, couldn't hide the fact that they were aware that the Cleveland Cavaliers are a bad team, without much talent. It was also a recognition, not publicly of course, that without Lebron, the Cavs were never good enough and are not poised to make a run anywhere near the playoffs. Lebron, even though not many want to admit it, was the sole reason that Cleveland was even talked about in the NBA. Prior to him entering the NBA in Cleveland, the only popular story about the Cavaliers that was talked about, was when Michael Jordan hit "the shot" over Craig Ehlo in the 1989 NBA playoffs, ending the series and MJ sinking another clutch shot.
The fact is, the Miami Heat still have a lot of things to work on. Bosh had 5 rebounds, Ilgauskas had no points and 2 rebounds. This can't happen against juggernauts like the Celtics, Magic, Mavericks and Lakers. So Miami fans better not be running through the streets of South Beach cheering about this win against the Developmental League Cavs. Wade and James still need to find some rhythm while they are on the floor together and the supporting cast needs to do a better job of getting involved in the offense. At the end of the day, yeah, Lebron went home and dominated, but realistically, SO WHAT!?! He made Cleveland look bad, AGAIN and he dissed his hometown, AGAIN. The city of Cleveland got dirt kicked in their face AGAIN and yet, the Heat didn't prove anything. Fans got to see their beloved prodigal son one more time last night, except he went back his condo in South Beach, not his townhouse in Akron.
The fact is, the Miami Heat still have a lot of things to work on. Bosh had 5 rebounds, Ilgauskas had no points and 2 rebounds. This can't happen against juggernauts like the Celtics, Magic, Mavericks and Lakers. So Miami fans better not be running through the streets of South Beach cheering about this win against the Developmental League Cavs. Wade and James still need to find some rhythm while they are on the floor together and the supporting cast needs to do a better job of getting involved in the offense. At the end of the day, yeah, Lebron went home and dominated, but realistically, SO WHAT!?! He made Cleveland look bad, AGAIN and he dissed his hometown, AGAIN. The city of Cleveland got dirt kicked in their face AGAIN and yet, the Heat didn't prove anything. Fans got to see their beloved prodigal son one more time last night, except he went back his condo in South Beach, not his townhouse in Akron.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
DAILY RANT: 12/1/2010
Happy Holidays to all! As December begins and people try to find gifts for each other, hoping to have something to inspire them to actually purchase these gifts and get them into the "spirit", New Yorkers need to be aware of inspiration coming from their sports teams. So, just when you thought watching the battle between the Yankees front office and Derek Jeter's camp was going to give you the winter blues, poof!! There it appears, like a shooting star, much, much more to be thankful for if you are a NY Sports fan.
The NY Knicks, after losing out on the Lebron Sweepstakes, have shown life again and have a real star in Amare Stoudamire. The team has also found some superb support by way of Raymond Felton, rookie Landry Fields and 6th man of the year, Wilson Chandler. The Knicks are in a super weak Atlantic Division and find themselves in the thick of it early on. Usually by this point they are in last place, 5-7 games under .500. They are now 10-9 and the next two teams below them (Toronto Raptors/NJ Nets) are both 5 games under .500 and don't seem to have much fight in them. This is not a ticker tape parade for the Knicks, it is just a recognition of change in talent and of a step in the right direction. The Knicks can and might possibly tear off a 6 game losing streak, but for now, they are playing well and have found some good rhythm.
The New Meadowlands is now home to two top NFL teams. The Giants have gotten past serious injuries to their offense and are in a tie for the NFC East division. The Giants defense has come back to life, getting enormous pressure on the opposing quarterbacks, and containing the run. Eli Manning has made plays when he needs to, while getting support from his ever changing running game. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw continue to swap starting spots and if they can keep the turnovers down, they will be an effective weapon down the stretch. The NFC as a whole is much weaker then the AFC this year, which will only help the Giants in the long run as they try to keep hold of a playoff spot.
The Jets are tied for the best record in the NFL and are playing sound football. They can always work on something, but for the most part are an elite team. Their test will be going into New England this Monday night and leaving unscathed. However, it doesn't end there, because the Jets will need to keep their undefeated road record in tact when they go to Pittsburgh and Chicago, two really difficult places to play. The Jets have, at the least, secured another winning season, something which Eric Mangini and company could never accomplish. Prior to the Rex Ryan era, there wasn't any consistency with Jets . Now, Ryan has instilled his philosophies and way of dealing with the game and that has translated into success.
The NY Rangers are doing well......
The Yankees had a good season, not of course in the eyes of the Steinbrenner's, but in relation to other Baseball teams, they did. The Yankees will always spend, spend, spend and have a roster full of expensive names, able to fill the expensive, cushioned seats at the new, expensive Yankee Stadium. The Tampa Bay Rays will lose some significant talent to free agency this year, the Boston Red Sox contract with the Devil that they signed back in 2004 has expired and there aren't any other teams in the AL East, so expect the Yankees to be back in the playoffs......UNLESS....the Yankees do not bring back Derek Jeter. If they play hardball (PUN) with Jeter and his agent and allow him to leave, then the team should be prepared to suffer the consequences of letting the pretty face of the franchise wear something other then pinstripes. Although Jeter is on the down swing of his career, he IS the Yankees and has been for his entire career. No other player during his time in baseball, has meant more to a team or been as loved and popular for such a long period of time. Not to mention, he has been clutch during the biggest games and has been at the top in both defense and hitting almost every season. The Yankees will not survive the fallout if they let Jeter end his career somewhere other then the Bronx. Of course, things will work out and the Yankees will get Jeter back into uniform for the start of Spring training, along with Cliff Lee. Giving them, what could be, the best 1,2,3 in baseball, Sabathia, Lee and Hughes (Burnett will be a great #5).
The NY Mets, unfortunately are not in much of a position to contend anytime soon, but they are making the right moves in their front office, letting Omar Minaya go and changing managers. Which can be something fans can be thankful for. Who they have chosen for these positions, are yet to show whether they can make a difference or not. As for the talent in Flushing, there isn't much there. What used to be one the most solid corner of the infields in the NL, has turned into a rotation of shortstops and one third baseman that's afraid of the outfield walls. The best outfielder the Mets had this season was Angel Pagan, who makes 1/16th of what Carlos Beltran makes and wasn't nearly as touted as Jason Bay was last off season. The Mets pitching situation is just that, a situation. Other then Johan Santana (coming off another surgery) nothing else is there for the Mets in means of pitching. Nothing.
So NY Sports fans, bask in the glow of above average play, just shy of mediocrity and be thankful that you don't live in Cleveland!
The NY Knicks, after losing out on the Lebron Sweepstakes, have shown life again and have a real star in Amare Stoudamire. The team has also found some superb support by way of Raymond Felton, rookie Landry Fields and 6th man of the year, Wilson Chandler. The Knicks are in a super weak Atlantic Division and find themselves in the thick of it early on. Usually by this point they are in last place, 5-7 games under .500. They are now 10-9 and the next two teams below them (Toronto Raptors/NJ Nets) are both 5 games under .500 and don't seem to have much fight in them. This is not a ticker tape parade for the Knicks, it is just a recognition of change in talent and of a step in the right direction. The Knicks can and might possibly tear off a 6 game losing streak, but for now, they are playing well and have found some good rhythm.
The New Meadowlands is now home to two top NFL teams. The Giants have gotten past serious injuries to their offense and are in a tie for the NFC East division. The Giants defense has come back to life, getting enormous pressure on the opposing quarterbacks, and containing the run. Eli Manning has made plays when he needs to, while getting support from his ever changing running game. Brandon Jacobs and Ahmad Bradshaw continue to swap starting spots and if they can keep the turnovers down, they will be an effective weapon down the stretch. The NFC as a whole is much weaker then the AFC this year, which will only help the Giants in the long run as they try to keep hold of a playoff spot.
The Jets are tied for the best record in the NFL and are playing sound football. They can always work on something, but for the most part are an elite team. Their test will be going into New England this Monday night and leaving unscathed. However, it doesn't end there, because the Jets will need to keep their undefeated road record in tact when they go to Pittsburgh and Chicago, two really difficult places to play. The Jets have, at the least, secured another winning season, something which Eric Mangini and company could never accomplish. Prior to the Rex Ryan era, there wasn't any consistency with Jets . Now, Ryan has instilled his philosophies and way of dealing with the game and that has translated into success.
The NY Rangers are doing well......
The Yankees had a good season, not of course in the eyes of the Steinbrenner's, but in relation to other Baseball teams, they did. The Yankees will always spend, spend, spend and have a roster full of expensive names, able to fill the expensive, cushioned seats at the new, expensive Yankee Stadium. The Tampa Bay Rays will lose some significant talent to free agency this year, the Boston Red Sox contract with the Devil that they signed back in 2004 has expired and there aren't any other teams in the AL East, so expect the Yankees to be back in the playoffs......UNLESS....the Yankees do not bring back Derek Jeter. If they play hardball (PUN) with Jeter and his agent and allow him to leave, then the team should be prepared to suffer the consequences of letting the pretty face of the franchise wear something other then pinstripes. Although Jeter is on the down swing of his career, he IS the Yankees and has been for his entire career. No other player during his time in baseball, has meant more to a team or been as loved and popular for such a long period of time. Not to mention, he has been clutch during the biggest games and has been at the top in both defense and hitting almost every season. The Yankees will not survive the fallout if they let Jeter end his career somewhere other then the Bronx. Of course, things will work out and the Yankees will get Jeter back into uniform for the start of Spring training, along with Cliff Lee. Giving them, what could be, the best 1,2,3 in baseball, Sabathia, Lee and Hughes (Burnett will be a great #5).
The NY Mets, unfortunately are not in much of a position to contend anytime soon, but they are making the right moves in their front office, letting Omar Minaya go and changing managers. Which can be something fans can be thankful for. Who they have chosen for these positions, are yet to show whether they can make a difference or not. As for the talent in Flushing, there isn't much there. What used to be one the most solid corner of the infields in the NL, has turned into a rotation of shortstops and one third baseman that's afraid of the outfield walls. The best outfielder the Mets had this season was Angel Pagan, who makes 1/16th of what Carlos Beltran makes and wasn't nearly as touted as Jason Bay was last off season. The Mets pitching situation is just that, a situation. Other then Johan Santana (coming off another surgery) nothing else is there for the Mets in means of pitching. Nothing.
So NY Sports fans, bask in the glow of above average play, just shy of mediocrity and be thankful that you don't live in Cleveland!
Monday, November 29, 2010
DAILY RANT: 11/29/2010
Has anyone noticed that there is only one game separating the NY Knicks and the "big 3" Miami Heat?
With all the hype and news surrounding them, so far, Miami is just "an average" NBA team with a record of 9-8. So Stoudamire and Felton have worked out better then Bosh and Lebron?
Is anyone surprised that the Heat have all but alienated their young inexperienced head coach Spoelstra? How long do fans think it will take for Pat Riley to come back to the bench and demote Spoelstra back to water boy?
Most NBA fans outside the Miami area, are just fine watching this expensive experiment fail. It was such an unpopular and greedy choice for Lebron James and Chris Bosh to join the Heat, so watching that come back to bite them has been a delightful holiday gift. Does the saying, "too many cooks in the kitchen" sound familiar?
How long will it take for the NY Jets to gain some respect around the NFL? Unfortunately, it will take exactly one week for the real haters/lovers of gang green to make their minds up. Because exactly one week from today, in misspelled Foxboro (Foxborough), the Boston Patriots will host the New York/New Joisy Jets. A battle of the two best records in the NFL, the two best in the AFC and a battle for first place in the AFC East. How much bigger can one game get? Not much!
A lot of uneducated NFL fans (Jet-haters) have screamed and complained that the Jets have gotten "lucky". Try telling that to the undefeated Miami Dolphins of 1972. The 2010 Jets are no 1972 Dolphins, but they do have high rankings in almost every category. And when the game is on the line, the Jets have made the right play and have put themselves in position to win the game. Mark Sanchez has flourished as a bona-fied starting NFL quarterback. He has shown tremendous athletic ability, evading would-be defensive players going for the sack. He has thrown far less interceptions then last year. He is going deep, while recognizing the true talent that he has around him (Santonio Holmes, LaDanian Tomlinson, Braylon Edwards and Dustin Keller). Most importantly, he has grown as a player and a person, making more mature decisions, effectively keeping his team in the game.
Rex Ryan is a big personality, trimmed down from last year in stature, but still big enough to take on the brunt of the scrutiny or attention the team gets. He is just that smart. He knows that if he can do anything, it's keep the pressure off his team as much as possible. And if that means making a fool of himself, or saying loud and controversial things, then so be it. Rex Ryan is the type of coach that loves his players. He hand picked all of them for a reason, because he knows which kind of guy will be there for the other one. Some people outside of the organization might look at some of the personnel and say that they are trouble makers, but the reality is that each player on the roster has a role to fill and Rex has carefully cast those roles in the hopes of putting together a super bowl team. People can say anything they want, but when it comes down to what matters in the NFL, its records. And at 9-2, the NY Jets so far, are at the top.
Terry Collins.....anyone know who he is? Wrong, he is not a mixture of Gin, Club Soda and Sour Mix, garnished with a lemon and cherry. He is the new manager of the NY Metropolitans (Mets). So, Tom "er" Terry Collins has not managed since 1999 (Anaheim) and his reign with the Angels ended abruptly with his resignation, due to player unrest and dissatisfaction of his managerial skills. He has worked with the Houston Astros and a Chinese Team in Japan??? Oh yeah, he was hired by the Mets new General Manager, Sandy Alderson. A California guy, previously with the San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics. Alderson's track record is paved with much more gold then Collins' is. He is seen as a quiet, behind the scenes guy with good eye for talent, but more unwilling to spend on big names. There is no doubt that Alderson has had much success in Baseball, but will that laid back, west coast swagger translate well here on the east coast in NYC?? He has a lot of work to do with the current roster of misfits and the bleak free agent market. Alderson probably will take the approach that the Mets need 2 years before they can be relevant again and if the fans will just bear with it, things will start to look brighter by 2013. Realistically, the NY media and fan base will give him 6 months before they look for a new GM call for his head on a stick. Sorry Sandy, but that's just they way it is here. Unfortunately, the NY Mets are a complex and cursed organization, thanks to horrendous contracts, horrible free agent signings and one Adam Wainwright fastball that made it's way past a sleeping Carlos Beltran, into the glove of Yadier Molina, closing the book on a great season with World Series written all over it and essentially sending the organization into a downward spiral ever since.
With all the hype and news surrounding them, so far, Miami is just "an average" NBA team with a record of 9-8. So Stoudamire and Felton have worked out better then Bosh and Lebron?
Is anyone surprised that the Heat have all but alienated their young inexperienced head coach Spoelstra? How long do fans think it will take for Pat Riley to come back to the bench and demote Spoelstra back to water boy?
Most NBA fans outside the Miami area, are just fine watching this expensive experiment fail. It was such an unpopular and greedy choice for Lebron James and Chris Bosh to join the Heat, so watching that come back to bite them has been a delightful holiday gift. Does the saying, "too many cooks in the kitchen" sound familiar?
How long will it take for the NY Jets to gain some respect around the NFL? Unfortunately, it will take exactly one week for the real haters/lovers of gang green to make their minds up. Because exactly one week from today, in misspelled Foxboro (Foxborough), the Boston Patriots will host the New York/New Joisy Jets. A battle of the two best records in the NFL, the two best in the AFC and a battle for first place in the AFC East. How much bigger can one game get? Not much!
A lot of uneducated NFL fans (Jet-haters) have screamed and complained that the Jets have gotten "lucky". Try telling that to the undefeated Miami Dolphins of 1972. The 2010 Jets are no 1972 Dolphins, but they do have high rankings in almost every category. And when the game is on the line, the Jets have made the right play and have put themselves in position to win the game. Mark Sanchez has flourished as a bona-fied starting NFL quarterback. He has shown tremendous athletic ability, evading would-be defensive players going for the sack. He has thrown far less interceptions then last year. He is going deep, while recognizing the true talent that he has around him (Santonio Holmes, LaDanian Tomlinson, Braylon Edwards and Dustin Keller). Most importantly, he has grown as a player and a person, making more mature decisions, effectively keeping his team in the game.
Rex Ryan is a big personality, trimmed down from last year in stature, but still big enough to take on the brunt of the scrutiny or attention the team gets. He is just that smart. He knows that if he can do anything, it's keep the pressure off his team as much as possible. And if that means making a fool of himself, or saying loud and controversial things, then so be it. Rex Ryan is the type of coach that loves his players. He hand picked all of them for a reason, because he knows which kind of guy will be there for the other one. Some people outside of the organization might look at some of the personnel and say that they are trouble makers, but the reality is that each player on the roster has a role to fill and Rex has carefully cast those roles in the hopes of putting together a super bowl team. People can say anything they want, but when it comes down to what matters in the NFL, its records. And at 9-2, the NY Jets so far, are at the top.
Terry Collins.....anyone know who he is? Wrong, he is not a mixture of Gin, Club Soda and Sour Mix, garnished with a lemon and cherry. He is the new manager of the NY Metropolitans (Mets). So, Tom "er" Terry Collins has not managed since 1999 (Anaheim) and his reign with the Angels ended abruptly with his resignation, due to player unrest and dissatisfaction of his managerial skills. He has worked with the Houston Astros and a Chinese Team in Japan??? Oh yeah, he was hired by the Mets new General Manager, Sandy Alderson. A California guy, previously with the San Diego Padres and Oakland Athletics. Alderson's track record is paved with much more gold then Collins' is. He is seen as a quiet, behind the scenes guy with good eye for talent, but more unwilling to spend on big names. There is no doubt that Alderson has had much success in Baseball, but will that laid back, west coast swagger translate well here on the east coast in NYC?? He has a lot of work to do with the current roster of misfits and the bleak free agent market. Alderson probably will take the approach that the Mets need 2 years before they can be relevant again and if the fans will just bear with it, things will start to look brighter by 2013. Realistically, the NY media and fan base will give him 6 months before they look for a new GM call for his head on a stick. Sorry Sandy, but that's just they way it is here. Unfortunately, the NY Mets are a complex and cursed organization, thanks to horrendous contracts, horrible free agent signings and one Adam Wainwright fastball that made it's way past a sleeping Carlos Beltran, into the glove of Yadier Molina, closing the book on a great season with World Series written all over it and essentially sending the organization into a downward spiral ever since.
Monday, October 4, 2010
You Gotta Pay Your BILLS!
That's three straight AFC East Division wins for the New York Jets. And at least 2 out of the 3 games were significant victories. Beating the Bills in Buffalo is a tough road game, but in reality it is the Bills and their level of competition falls under that of the Canadian Football League (coincidentally, the Bills might move to Toronto). A lot of very good things are happening for the Jets right now.
Through the first four games, Mark Sanchez and the offense have had no turnovers, none. Sanchez threw 20 picks last year and coming into this year, there had to be an important step forward for him in his growth process to keep his turnovers down. He has not only done that so far, but he has been hitting his targets for 8 scores already in four games.
The defense has suffered some serious blows through injuries, losing NT Kris Jenkins for the entire season (again) and Ropati Pitoitua as well, DE Calvin Pace has been out since the pre-season, all pro holdout, Darelle Revis has only played in one game so far and yesterday against the Bills, DE Shaun Ellis sprained his left knee and is day-to-day. Yet, the Jets defense is getting it done, playing hard nose football and doing it the Rex Ryan way.
Another aspect of the Rex Ryan way of football, is the pound it out, ground game. Prior to this season, skeptics were all saying that LaDainian Tomlinson is washed up and that relying on second year RB, Shonne Greene, was going to be a gamble. As of yesterday, LT is averaging 6.1 yards per carry and complementing him is Greene, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. They have combined for just under 600 yards rushing and LT has 3 TD's. Opposing teams have to respect the Jets running game, which in turn, has given way to the play action for Sanchez and the "Seminole" formation, featuring the most versatile player in the NFL, Brad Smith.
One other thing that the Jets should be proud of, is the discipline that they showed on the field, limiting the amount of penalties they had. Against the Dolphins last week, the Jets played sloppy football, keeping Miami close with their 9 penalties. Yesterday however, the Jets reversed that trend and were efficient, smart and only penalized 4 times.
It then begs the question, how good can the Jets be?? Next week, the Jets are playing in their 3rd Nationally televised game, once again on MNF at the New Meadowlands against one time Jet, Brett Favre and the Vikings. The Jets are about to get stronger as a team, with Super Bowl MVP wide out, Santonio Holmes set to return from his 4 game suspension and Calvin Pace and Darrelle Revis also expected to be back from injuries. Adding those three players to the team at this point in the season, should only spell more success for the Jets.
Through the first four games, Mark Sanchez and the offense have had no turnovers, none. Sanchez threw 20 picks last year and coming into this year, there had to be an important step forward for him in his growth process to keep his turnovers down. He has not only done that so far, but he has been hitting his targets for 8 scores already in four games.
The defense has suffered some serious blows through injuries, losing NT Kris Jenkins for the entire season (again) and Ropati Pitoitua as well, DE Calvin Pace has been out since the pre-season, all pro holdout, Darelle Revis has only played in one game so far and yesterday against the Bills, DE Shaun Ellis sprained his left knee and is day-to-day. Yet, the Jets defense is getting it done, playing hard nose football and doing it the Rex Ryan way.
Another aspect of the Rex Ryan way of football, is the pound it out, ground game. Prior to this season, skeptics were all saying that LaDainian Tomlinson is washed up and that relying on second year RB, Shonne Greene, was going to be a gamble. As of yesterday, LT is averaging 6.1 yards per carry and complementing him is Greene, averaging 4.3 yards per carry. They have combined for just under 600 yards rushing and LT has 3 TD's. Opposing teams have to respect the Jets running game, which in turn, has given way to the play action for Sanchez and the "Seminole" formation, featuring the most versatile player in the NFL, Brad Smith.
One other thing that the Jets should be proud of, is the discipline that they showed on the field, limiting the amount of penalties they had. Against the Dolphins last week, the Jets played sloppy football, keeping Miami close with their 9 penalties. Yesterday however, the Jets reversed that trend and were efficient, smart and only penalized 4 times.
It then begs the question, how good can the Jets be?? Next week, the Jets are playing in their 3rd Nationally televised game, once again on MNF at the New Meadowlands against one time Jet, Brett Favre and the Vikings. The Jets are about to get stronger as a team, with Super Bowl MVP wide out, Santonio Holmes set to return from his 4 game suspension and Calvin Pace and Darrelle Revis also expected to be back from injuries. Adding those three players to the team at this point in the season, should only spell more success for the Jets.
Monday, September 27, 2010
Winning with Mistakes
On a hot and humid Sunday night in Miami, the NY Jets added some more value to their young season by escaping with a big victory that could have easily been an embarrassing loss. In three games this year, the Jets have had 29 penalties. With a team that prides itself on being the LEAST penalized in the NFL, this season the Jets are getting more yellow sandbags thrown at them then a carnival game. They had 9 more penalties in Miami on Sunday, most of which negated their own score or scoring drive, or it gave the Dolphins new life on a dead drive. The new players on the team that have replaced the experienced veterans, have had the hardest time staying out of the referees view. Even though the Jets organization has preached week after week, that they were right in letting go players that were integral parts of last year's run to the AFC Championship, it is still up for debate and becomes more noticeable each time the same guys make dumb mistakes. The Jets have been undisciplined on and off the field so far this season, which is evident from all the penalties and now with DUI arrests, female reporters being harassed and suspensions. The most frustrating part of that, is the fact that Mark Sanchez, minus the home opener, has performed beyond expectations. He has been a bright light, during these dark times. Dating back to last year, he hasn't thrown a pick in 5 straight games. He also has been efficient and has scored at will, throwing 6 TD's in the last two games. But the problem is not with the Southern California native, it is with his teammates and coach. With Rex Ryan, you know what you get, big personality, big statements and big emotions. But some of that is bringing backlash to the team. The players, on the other hand, are just not being controlled and others have come with their own baggage that has also effected the Jets image.
Beating Miami and moving into a three-way tie for first place was huge for the Jets, especially with the over hyped expectations and F-bomb ladened reality series hovering over them this season. If they can start to stay out of the negative spotlight, i.e. penalties, arrests, controversial comments and substance abuse, this team can be very dangerous. Now, especially with some players coming back soon from injuries and suspensions, things can begin to click on all cylinders and the Jets can be a balanced juggernaut in the NFL.
Beating Miami and moving into a three-way tie for first place was huge for the Jets, especially with the over hyped expectations and F-bomb ladened reality series hovering over them this season. If they can start to stay out of the negative spotlight, i.e. penalties, arrests, controversial comments and substance abuse, this team can be very dangerous. Now, especially with some players coming back soon from injuries and suspensions, things can begin to click on all cylinders and the Jets can be a balanced juggernaut in the NFL.
Thursday, August 26, 2010
18 games? Why not 22? Why not 30?
The NFL met yesterday to discuss a potential expansion of the regular season, from 16 games to 18 games. Doing that will either subtract 2 pre-season games or it will add two more games to the regular season. If it does get approved, one thing the NFL could do, is reduce the amount of pre-season games. Doing that would alleviate some of the problems surrounding the situation with having more games and with the pre-season structure. If the pre-season were shortened to 2 or 3 games, teams could then avoid some potential injuries and season ticket holders wouldn't feel so bad when they saw the bill for their Personal Seat Licensing charges for their season tickets. Ticket prices are unfortunately the same for regular season and pre-season, which begs the question, why should season ticket holders be charged that much to see pre-season games featuring 2nd and 3rd string players who most likely won't make the final roster? Injuries are always a problem and lots of times key players go down in a pre-season game that doesn't count, so if you reduce the number games, you reduce the chance of injury during a meaningless game. This all supports reducing the number of pre-season games, it doesn't however support adding 2 more to the regular season. If the NFL decided to just add the games on, bringing the total of games purchased for a season to 22, then some people would end up being priced out for the whole season. Adding more games also puts the players at risk of getting fatigued, hurt and if they end up in the playoffs, payroll will go up as well.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
Come on Le Bron!
Today is the day our country turn it's eyes to ESPN to watch the "chosen one", Lebron James, announce his decision of where he will cash his exorbitant pay check. Leading up to this special show, the teams in the running for landing the biggest free agent in the history of the NBA are already trying to throw out their bait, attempting to hook the big fish. The Miami Heat, moving in the direction most assumed, re-signed Dwayne Wade and added Chris Bosh. The New York Knicks gave Amare Stoudamire one of their available maximum contracts. The Chicago Bulls signed Carlos Boozer, having him join a young and promising roster. The other two teams, the NJ Nets and Cleveland Cavaliers, have both remained stagnant in their free agent and roster moves. With all of these moves, who ends up with the prize?
Some idiots at ESPN are saying that they are confident that Lebron will join Wade and Bosh in Miami. They are idiots, because if Lebron is as smart and savvy as he seems to be, he would never share the spotlight of a championship with Wade, ultimately the same type of player. If Michael Jordan is Lebron's idol, which he is for most, then one thing he should have learned from Jordan is that there is only one Batman and one Robin on a winning team. Kobe and Shaq in LA were different positions and complemented eachother. Having Wade and Lebron on the same team, with Bosh, will be too crowded, too confusing and problematic. There will always be the question there, of who gets the rock? Lebron takes 40 shots a game, Wade takes 40 shots a game, Bosh takes 30 shots a game. How will that work? There are too many stars on one team. In Boston, Garnett, Allen and Pierce all play different positions and have different roles, if Lebron and Wade were to play together, who would take the secondary role?
If Lebron wants to set up his legacy and leave a lasting impression close to what Jordan and Kobe have done, he will have to be the star, not the other guy. If he went to Chicago, he would have a full roster and he would be the main ingredient, but he will always live in Jordan's shadow in the windy city. In New York, all he would need to do is win one championship to be a superstar. Other then the Yankees players, sports stars who have won in NY, and remained popular have all done it by just winning that first trophy. That's all you have to do in NY. For example, Mark Messier has only one Stanley Cup trophy with the NY Rangers, and he is an icon in NY. Walt Frazier has two rings and he is still a huge star. NY Mets stars, Keith Hernandez, Ron Darling, Gary Carter, etc. only have one World Series ring, but they are favorites around the five boroughs. The point is, winning just one championship at Madison Square Garden will be bigger for Lebron, then him winning three in Cleveland. And it seems as though Cleveland is banking on Lebron's love for his hometown, because they haven't made any moves to improve their roster and surround Lebron with complimentary players.
No matter where Lebron ends up, his legacy will always be measured against those of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and now Kobe Bryant. Hopefully his decision is to play for a franchise that he can call his own, and stand alone as the so called "chosen one". Everyone has an ego, and everyone, deep down inside, wants to be the brightest star in sports. Lebron James is no exception. He is and he should be focused on winning a championship, because up until this point, he has zero rings and when it comes down to it, that is the only way to be remembered.
Some idiots at ESPN are saying that they are confident that Lebron will join Wade and Bosh in Miami. They are idiots, because if Lebron is as smart and savvy as he seems to be, he would never share the spotlight of a championship with Wade, ultimately the same type of player. If Michael Jordan is Lebron's idol, which he is for most, then one thing he should have learned from Jordan is that there is only one Batman and one Robin on a winning team. Kobe and Shaq in LA were different positions and complemented eachother. Having Wade and Lebron on the same team, with Bosh, will be too crowded, too confusing and problematic. There will always be the question there, of who gets the rock? Lebron takes 40 shots a game, Wade takes 40 shots a game, Bosh takes 30 shots a game. How will that work? There are too many stars on one team. In Boston, Garnett, Allen and Pierce all play different positions and have different roles, if Lebron and Wade were to play together, who would take the secondary role?
If Lebron wants to set up his legacy and leave a lasting impression close to what Jordan and Kobe have done, he will have to be the star, not the other guy. If he went to Chicago, he would have a full roster and he would be the main ingredient, but he will always live in Jordan's shadow in the windy city. In New York, all he would need to do is win one championship to be a superstar. Other then the Yankees players, sports stars who have won in NY, and remained popular have all done it by just winning that first trophy. That's all you have to do in NY. For example, Mark Messier has only one Stanley Cup trophy with the NY Rangers, and he is an icon in NY. Walt Frazier has two rings and he is still a huge star. NY Mets stars, Keith Hernandez, Ron Darling, Gary Carter, etc. only have one World Series ring, but they are favorites around the five boroughs. The point is, winning just one championship at Madison Square Garden will be bigger for Lebron, then him winning three in Cleveland. And it seems as though Cleveland is banking on Lebron's love for his hometown, because they haven't made any moves to improve their roster and surround Lebron with complimentary players.
No matter where Lebron ends up, his legacy will always be measured against those of Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and now Kobe Bryant. Hopefully his decision is to play for a franchise that he can call his own, and stand alone as the so called "chosen one". Everyone has an ego, and everyone, deep down inside, wants to be the brightest star in sports. Lebron James is no exception. He is and he should be focused on winning a championship, because up until this point, he has zero rings and when it comes down to it, that is the only way to be remembered.
Monday, April 26, 2010
Well, well, well....
If it isn't our old friend, Winning Streak. It's great to see ya, it's been a long time since we've had you around these parts. What's that you say, "coming home to Citi Field was blessing in disguise". Oh really! And "Ike Davis is the real deal, home grown, first baseman, that the Mets have been looking for". That's what Mets fans love to hear, Winning Streak. Yes, we agree, "Mike Pelfrey is awesome!" How long do you plan on staying around here in New York?
Oh, "Just until Oliver Perez pitches" you say. Well that's too bad, because he pitches tonight against the Dodgers.
Mike Pelfrey has been nothing more then solid, effective and dominating, winning his first four starts and throwing 24 consecutive scoreless innings. He got his 4th win last night, even with his splitter and fastball not working during the rainy night against the Braves. The Mets unfortunately haven't been scoring many runs for their pitchers. Their defense has been superb and when they do score, it hasn't been from the long ball, the Mets actually are manufacturing runs with stolen bases, sacrifice flies and smart base running. Hopefully the Mets bats will get hot, and when Carlos Beltran gets back in the lineup, who knows how many runs they will score. But for now, 1 or 2 runs seems to be enough for the Mets pitching, but everyone knows that can't last very long.
Oh, "Just until Oliver Perez pitches" you say. Well that's too bad, because he pitches tonight against the Dodgers.
Mike Pelfrey has been nothing more then solid, effective and dominating, winning his first four starts and throwing 24 consecutive scoreless innings. He got his 4th win last night, even with his splitter and fastball not working during the rainy night against the Braves. The Mets unfortunately haven't been scoring many runs for their pitchers. Their defense has been superb and when they do score, it hasn't been from the long ball, the Mets actually are manufacturing runs with stolen bases, sacrifice flies and smart base running. Hopefully the Mets bats will get hot, and when Carlos Beltran gets back in the lineup, who knows how many runs they will score. But for now, 1 or 2 runs seems to be enough for the Mets pitching, but everyone knows that can't last very long.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
Opening Start
1 down, 161 to go. Opening Day in baseball has such an amazing feeling, no matter where you are. Spring is in the air, it's a new beginning and that long anticipation ends after a cold winter. Every team starts out the same way, the stadiums are all filled to capacity and for one day, fans can cheer on their team without any negativity. For some teams, after opening day, they would love to just call it in, go out with a bang and avoid the disaster that is about to occur during the next 161 games. For others, they will build off the momentum of a fresh start and keep their stadiums packed until October.
The New York Mets, without sounding too dramatic, desperately needed to win this year's Opening Day. After a horrendous 2009, one in which we all want to forget about forever, the 2010 season has to be better. So, without Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran starting on opening day, two of the Mets big name stars, the rest of the team stepped up and played error-free defense, had timely hits and effective pitching, especially from the staff's ace, Johan Santana. The Mets bullpen, which Manager Jerry Manuel has said is his biggest concern, cam up with 3 scoreless innings to finish out Santana's strong outing.
How does this good start translate into season long success???
David Wright continued his power surge from spring training, homering in his first at bat of the season yesterday. He looked patient and much more comfortable at the plate.
Johan Santana had great control and high velocity and he showed no signs of change after having surgery in the off-season.
New acquisitions, Gary Matthews, JR., Jason Bay and Rod Barajas all contributed with their bats and gloves, filling holes in the lineup left open by Beltran and Reyes. Turning a weaker lineup of last year, into a competitive, higher scoring one for 2010.
Relief pitcher Fernando Nieve, who was up for the 5th spot in the rotation, looks like a viable candidate for this season's long reliever and spot starter out of the bullpen. He pitched two scoreless innings, opening the door for K-Rod.
But, what about the rest of the bullpen? What about first base? Jerry Manuel is still concerned about his bullpen, and with a 7-1 win, he still feels that way having not been able to see any of his other pitchers in action. Daniel Murphy, this years starting first baseman, is on the DL and his replacement, Mike Jacobs, went 0-4 at the plate. That position still remains to be a problem for the Mets. Murphy will need to come back from this stint on the DL and contribute immediately to push aside any doubts.
Mets fans should be happy today. They are undefeated and will stay that way for at least another 24 hours. All things considered, the team looked great! If the Mets play this way until Beltran, Murphy and Reyes get back, they should theoretically be a contender in the National League.....theoretically.
The New York Mets, without sounding too dramatic, desperately needed to win this year's Opening Day. After a horrendous 2009, one in which we all want to forget about forever, the 2010 season has to be better. So, without Jose Reyes and Carlos Beltran starting on opening day, two of the Mets big name stars, the rest of the team stepped up and played error-free defense, had timely hits and effective pitching, especially from the staff's ace, Johan Santana. The Mets bullpen, which Manager Jerry Manuel has said is his biggest concern, cam up with 3 scoreless innings to finish out Santana's strong outing.
How does this good start translate into season long success???
David Wright continued his power surge from spring training, homering in his first at bat of the season yesterday. He looked patient and much more comfortable at the plate.
Johan Santana had great control and high velocity and he showed no signs of change after having surgery in the off-season.
New acquisitions, Gary Matthews, JR., Jason Bay and Rod Barajas all contributed with their bats and gloves, filling holes in the lineup left open by Beltran and Reyes. Turning a weaker lineup of last year, into a competitive, higher scoring one for 2010.
Relief pitcher Fernando Nieve, who was up for the 5th spot in the rotation, looks like a viable candidate for this season's long reliever and spot starter out of the bullpen. He pitched two scoreless innings, opening the door for K-Rod.
But, what about the rest of the bullpen? What about first base? Jerry Manuel is still concerned about his bullpen, and with a 7-1 win, he still feels that way having not been able to see any of his other pitchers in action. Daniel Murphy, this years starting first baseman, is on the DL and his replacement, Mike Jacobs, went 0-4 at the plate. That position still remains to be a problem for the Mets. Murphy will need to come back from this stint on the DL and contribute immediately to push aside any doubts.
Mets fans should be happy today. They are undefeated and will stay that way for at least another 24 hours. All things considered, the team looked great! If the Mets play this way until Beltran, Murphy and Reyes get back, they should theoretically be a contender in the National League.....theoretically.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Injuries, Shminjuries!
Hopefully, Omar Minaya did his job right and the injuries (again) to two of the Mets big name stars (Beltran and Reyes) won't affect the team because the replacements he hired can hold it down until they come back. Realistically, the Mets are asking too much of bench players to fill the holes left open by all star caliber players. If the injuries go deep into the season like last year, it is going to be another long one. The Mets pitching staff is giving up home runs to the Nationals like its a stadium give away and Jerry Manuel and his staff still have not decided on the 4 and 5 spots in the rotation nor have they solidified the bullpen. How do they expect to compete against teams like the Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, Rockies, Braves and Marlins?
Three years straight, pivotal stars on the Mets squad have had significant injuries to start the season and/or have had injuries that have made you say "hmmm?". How does Jose Reyes always seem to have some type of injury? First, when he came up from the minors, the Mets staff taught him the wrong way to run the bases and he had leg problems, then when Reyes figured out how to run and steal bases, he had hand and leg injuries, now his thyroid is messed up...huh? And Carlos Beltran is either a hypochondriac or the doctors that he is seeing aren't really asking him the right questions, like "do your knees hurt?" or "how long have they been making a clicking sound when you walk?". Mets fans are allowed to be frustrated by all these injuries. Imagining a full roster of the Mets stars is really just that, a figment of the imagination. It has been too long since the Mets were at full, healthy capacity and were able to compete with other healthy teams. What's left?....A brand new stadium, pricey tickets and concessions and a makeshift lineup with sub-par pitching behind Johan Santana....sorry to sound so negative and gloomy, but after a while you just can't take anymore.
Three years straight, pivotal stars on the Mets squad have had significant injuries to start the season and/or have had injuries that have made you say "hmmm?". How does Jose Reyes always seem to have some type of injury? First, when he came up from the minors, the Mets staff taught him the wrong way to run the bases and he had leg problems, then when Reyes figured out how to run and steal bases, he had hand and leg injuries, now his thyroid is messed up...huh? And Carlos Beltran is either a hypochondriac or the doctors that he is seeing aren't really asking him the right questions, like "do your knees hurt?" or "how long have they been making a clicking sound when you walk?". Mets fans are allowed to be frustrated by all these injuries. Imagining a full roster of the Mets stars is really just that, a figment of the imagination. It has been too long since the Mets were at full, healthy capacity and were able to compete with other healthy teams. What's left?....A brand new stadium, pricey tickets and concessions and a makeshift lineup with sub-par pitching behind Johan Santana....sorry to sound so negative and gloomy, but after a while you just can't take anymore.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
The Coveted 5th Starting Spot Goes To.....
Nelson Figueroa pitched 2 solid innings for the New York Mets yesterday, in their Spring Training opener against the Atlanta Braves. He even struck out the side with 2 men on base in the 2nd inning. However, it is widely believed that Jon Niese, not Figueroa, will fill the final spot in the Mets starting rotation, barring any injuries or disastrous outings, but Figueroa is doing his best to keep the competition alive. So, if Figueroa and Niese both have strong pre-seasons, who should come out with the 5th spot??
Figueroa is 35 years old, and Jon Niese is 22. It seems much more logical to keep Figueroa in the bullpen as a long reliever and give Niese the chance to live up to his potential, but it's hard not to notice the hard work Figueroa has put in dating back to the end of last season. Having a veteran like Figueroa, coming out of the pen and straight out of Brooklyn, is a huge asset for the Mets since everyone other then Johan Santana is under the age of 30. Most Mets fans are just hoping for healthy pitchers. It's been a long time since all 5 of the Mets starting pitchers stayed healthy together. That has been the main problem for the organization, having to replace starters with a makeshift rotation from relievers and journeymen, that is something that they want to avoid this season. So whomever secures the 5th spot, his health will be the main focus because then the Mets can have a full strength bullpen backing up a 5 man rotation ready to compete for the NL EAST title.
Figueroa is 35 years old, and Jon Niese is 22. It seems much more logical to keep Figueroa in the bullpen as a long reliever and give Niese the chance to live up to his potential, but it's hard not to notice the hard work Figueroa has put in dating back to the end of last season. Having a veteran like Figueroa, coming out of the pen and straight out of Brooklyn, is a huge asset for the Mets since everyone other then Johan Santana is under the age of 30. Most Mets fans are just hoping for healthy pitchers. It's been a long time since all 5 of the Mets starting pitchers stayed healthy together. That has been the main problem for the organization, having to replace starters with a makeshift rotation from relievers and journeymen, that is something that they want to avoid this season. So whomever secures the 5th spot, his health will be the main focus because then the Mets can have a full strength bullpen backing up a 5 man rotation ready to compete for the NL EAST title.
Monday, March 1, 2010
More Home Runs for The Mets??
What will help boost the stat labeled "HR (homerun)" for the New York Mets in 2010?
Having hit the fewest "HR's" in the majors last season, the Mets' brass came up with one solution, cut the Center Field fence in half....hold your applause please. They also decided that adding a power hitter like Jason Bay was also a good first step.
But what else can an organization do to help it's team increase it's power?
Recently, Rob Neyer blogged about the Mets attempting to "pull back from opposite-field hitting"...and to focus more on pulling the ball. This seems to be a lot to ask of one team.....wait for it, now let the applause pour in.
The focus, however, should be on the players staying healthy and getting used to playing at Citi Field. The winds, the outfield walls, the odd dimensions and the obvious uncomfortableness of playing in a new place, coupled with all of the injuries, all seemed to contribute to the Mets lack of power last season. Pushing players to pull the ball more, in this bloggers mind, could have an adverse effect on how they approach hitting all together. It could put more pressure on the hitters to try different things, while they are returning from injuries and attempting to figure out Citi Field. Howard Johnson, the Mets hitting coach and former hard-hitting third baseman, feels that there needs to be a change in how aggressive the hitters are going to be. That is an understatement Ho-Jo!
Johnson said, "It would be like in football, and all you do is try to complete five-yard passes. You have to stretch the field at some point." Thank you Ho-Jo for explaining that, people have been running around, all very confused about how the NFL compares to hitting in the Major Leagues. Hopefully, Ho-Jo can make an impact on the players. Hopefully he is helping them hit for average as well, so that when this "surge" of power miraculously appears, there will be guys on base to score more then the one run the Mets were used to last season.
If the pitchers behind Johan Santana somehow come alive and execute, the Mets hitters should be more relaxed and aggressive at the plate. There are so many factors involved, when it comes to re-tooling an organization that has just gone through a serious drought. All the Mets fan around the world are hoping that the coaches, managers, trainers and players that have been put into place are going to (pun intended) "step up to the plate".
Having hit the fewest "HR's" in the majors last season, the Mets' brass came up with one solution, cut the Center Field fence in half....hold your applause please. They also decided that adding a power hitter like Jason Bay was also a good first step.
But what else can an organization do to help it's team increase it's power?
Recently, Rob Neyer blogged about the Mets attempting to "pull back from opposite-field hitting"...and to focus more on pulling the ball. This seems to be a lot to ask of one team.....wait for it, now let the applause pour in.
The focus, however, should be on the players staying healthy and getting used to playing at Citi Field. The winds, the outfield walls, the odd dimensions and the obvious uncomfortableness of playing in a new place, coupled with all of the injuries, all seemed to contribute to the Mets lack of power last season. Pushing players to pull the ball more, in this bloggers mind, could have an adverse effect on how they approach hitting all together. It could put more pressure on the hitters to try different things, while they are returning from injuries and attempting to figure out Citi Field. Howard Johnson, the Mets hitting coach and former hard-hitting third baseman, feels that there needs to be a change in how aggressive the hitters are going to be. That is an understatement Ho-Jo!
Johnson said, "It would be like in football, and all you do is try to complete five-yard passes. You have to stretch the field at some point." Thank you Ho-Jo for explaining that, people have been running around, all very confused about how the NFL compares to hitting in the Major Leagues. Hopefully, Ho-Jo can make an impact on the players. Hopefully he is helping them hit for average as well, so that when this "surge" of power miraculously appears, there will be guys on base to score more then the one run the Mets were used to last season.
If the pitchers behind Johan Santana somehow come alive and execute, the Mets hitters should be more relaxed and aggressive at the plate. There are so many factors involved, when it comes to re-tooling an organization that has just gone through a serious drought. All the Mets fan around the world are hoping that the coaches, managers, trainers and players that have been put into place are going to (pun intended) "step up to the plate".
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Same Look Mets?
Barring any injuries, the 2010 New York Mets will have a similar look to their opening day lineup this year as they did last year, with only a few changes....Are these changes upgrades, downgrades or no grades?
2010 2009 GRADE
C- Omir Santos (Rod Barajas) Brian Schneider UP
1B- Daniel Murphy Carlos Delgado DOWN
2B- Luis Castillo Luis Castillo ?
3B- David Wright David Wright SAME
SS- Jose Reyes Jose Reyes SAME
LF- Jason Bay Daniel Murphy UP
CF- Carlos Beltran (Angel Pagan) Carlos Beltran SAME
RF- Jeff Franceour Ryan Church UP
P- Johan Santana Johan Santana SAME
With the signing of Rod Barajas, it gives the Mets a veteran catcher, who has thrown out over 35% of baserunners and he can hit. Losing a healthy Delgado's bat is big, but he hasn't been healthy in 2 seasons so either Daniel Murphy or Mike Jacobs will suffice at 1B. Staying with Luis Castillo at 2B is so volatile because he finally hit really well last year, but he made possibly the worst defensive blunder in the history of the Mets since Bill Buckner. It is a question mark because no one knows which Castillo will be there at 2B, a good hitting, gold glove Castillo or a sub .200 hitter with stone hands. David Wright just needs to find his power again and everything will be fine at that corner of the infield. Jose Reyes, hopefully he has figured out what is wrong with him medically and he remembers how to steal bases again. Having Jason Bay in left field is a huge upgrade from the experiments the Mets had last year. He is a bonafide power hitter and he brings a lot of experience playing a wide open outfield. Not sure what Carlos Beltran has, and not sure if he does either. He is injured again and he will miss the first month of the season and this injury might still be affecting his ability to run the bases well and steal bases all together. Having a healthy Beltran means having a potent lineup and it means getting back one of the top defensive center fielders in the league. Jeff Franceour is a definite upgrade from Ryan Church. Frenchy can cover all of right field really well, he has a cannon for an arm and he is a good threat in the lineup for power and for average, protecting Wright, Beltran and Bay. Johan Santana has said that he feels the best he ever has this year. He said that his prior injuries and surgeries have not effected his preparation this Spring and that he is more then ready to take the mound on Opening Day. Unfortunately, the hopeful success of all of the pitchers behind Santana in the rotation is a mystery. It is too frustrating for this blogger to begin to try and look at the New York Mets 2010 rotation under a microscope.
All of the upgrades and changes to the New York Mets are contingent on them all staying healthy. It is like that with every team in the Major Leagues, except the Mets were the only team to have over 14 starting players on the injured list last season. We hope, as fans, that the Mets organization has done some work to re-tool it's medical staff. Having that many injuries in one season seems a bit out of hand.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Who are the better athletes?
Some sports writers, like ESPN's Tim Kurkjian, believe that baseball players are amongst the most well-rounded athletes in sports. That football players, for example, could not get into a batting cage and hit a fastball, or play third base and field a line drive hit by a major league hitter.
So it begs the question, which athletes, out of the top American sports (football, baseball, basketball, hockey) are the most well-rounded? Meaning, who could play the other guys sports, as well as their own?
Football is a very, very physical sport, but with that being said, it doesn't mean that the players can succeed on a pro level in other sports. It's hard to picture an offensive lineman swinging a baseball bat and making contact. It is, however, easy to picture a guy like Terrel Owens (I know that he's not the most popular choice) playing basketball and hitting a three-pointer from the corner with a defender in his face. There are, I am sure, plenty of individual examples from each sport, showcasing an athlete with the skills to play 4 sports and play them well. The question is which athlete, overall and in general, has the best training and is in the best physical shape to give them the opportunity to be all around athlete?
They say hitting a baseball is the hardest thing to do in sports, but who, besides baseball players, could do it the best?
So it begs the question, which athletes, out of the top American sports (football, baseball, basketball, hockey) are the most well-rounded? Meaning, who could play the other guys sports, as well as their own?
Football is a very, very physical sport, but with that being said, it doesn't mean that the players can succeed on a pro level in other sports. It's hard to picture an offensive lineman swinging a baseball bat and making contact. It is, however, easy to picture a guy like Terrel Owens (I know that he's not the most popular choice) playing basketball and hitting a three-pointer from the corner with a defender in his face. There are, I am sure, plenty of individual examples from each sport, showcasing an athlete with the skills to play 4 sports and play them well. The question is which athlete, overall and in general, has the best training and is in the best physical shape to give them the opportunity to be all around athlete?
They say hitting a baseball is the hardest thing to do in sports, but who, besides baseball players, could do it the best?
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