By Steven Lienert
The Phanatic Magazine
The Toronto Maple Leafs held up their end of the bargain Saturday night, but will the Devils come through on Sunday?
With most eyes focused on Tiger Woods' finishing round at the Masters (C'mon Appleby!) or switching back and forth to the Phillies (C'mon Howard!), most of the great province of Ontario, Canada will be focused on the last regular-season game at Continental Airlines Arena (thank goodness!).
That's where the Islanders, who just last week seemed destined for their own April golf tournament, need to beat the Atlantic Division Champion New Jersey Devils to get into the Eastern Conference playoffs.
Toronto saved its season last night with a thrilling, come-from-behind 6-5 win over the hated Montreal Canadiens. With the loss, the Habs' season came to a crashing end.
The Leafs. however, may have postponed their fate for one more day.
Sorry to disappoint you, Leaf fans, but the Devils have nothing to play for. They've already locked up the second seed and are going to face Tampa Bay in the first round of the playoffs. Martin Brodeur probably won't play.
The Isles, on the other hand, are riding third-string goalie Wade Dubielewicz to an improbable first-round matchup with the Buffalo Sabres, the Presidents' Trophy winners.
Another win by Wade and the Isles will extend their season by about four games. Okay, maybe five.
A Devils win, however, would garner the Sabres' attention. Buffalo has faced Toronto twice as much as it has seen the Islanders and the Sabres have just a 5-3 record against the Leafs. Buffalo was 3-1 against the Isles in the regular season.
Toronto would be a nightmare first-round matchup for Buffalo, although the Sabres would win. It's the beating they would take in the six or seven games it would take that would hurt them in the next round, especially if Ottawa is there.
It's a nightmare Leaf fans are hoping comes to fruition.
Sunday, April 08, 2007
Saturday, April 07, 2007
Join us on the radio
Join The Phanatic Magazine's John Gottlieb and John McMullen at 6:00 p.m. (et) for "Johns on Sports" on WTBQ.com. Michael Morrissey from the New York Post will join us to talk New York baseball at 6:30, as we cruise around the sports landscape, including stops in Augusta, the frozen pond, and the hardwoood. Call in at (845) 651-1110 or you can write an e-mail to johnonsports@hotmail.com.
Groundhog Day
By John McMullen
The Phanatic Magazine
An 8-2 win in Miami doesn't change the fact that the Philadelphia Phillies are off to yet another disappointing April and are flat out scared to play in front of a fan base that's circling like sharks in bloody water.
And, if the Phillies end up parting ways with Charlie Manuel early this season, conventional wisdom says they will look to the bench where Pat Gillick has assembled a host of former managers.
But -- close-circuit to “Toronto Pat” -- only one person can save this club -- Phil Connors.
You see, there are some serious karma issues going on with the Phillies right now and some important heavy-hitters far beyond this mortal coil have been pissed off by the local nine. And the only way to stop this ugly pattern is to get it right.
For those of you who don't know, Phil Connors is a fictional character played by Bill Murray in the 1993 comedy classic “Groundhog Day.”
In the film Connors is an egotistical Pittsburgh TV weatherman who, while on assignment covering the annual February 2 Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, finds himself repeating the same day over and over again.
Connors, his producer Rita (played by Andie McDowell) , and cameraman Larry(Chris Elliott) find themselves stuck in Punxsutawney when a blizzard develops, closing the roads and shutting down any phone service.
Forced to stay Phil rises the next morning, to find it is Groundhog Day again and everything happens in exactly the same way. At first, Connors takes the tact I would. He seizes on his situation and gathers information on the locals to seduce women, rob banks and basically live without any consequences.
But, finally he realizes he is being tested and the only way to get out of his predicament is to “Do it right.”
Soon, Connors drops the egoism, starts helping others and finds love with Rita. Only then does he wake up to February 3.
A bit sappy perhaps but the film’s legend has grown over the years and in December of 2006, “Groundhog Day” was one of 25 films that were added to the National Film Registry. Meanwhile, the phrase "Groundhog Day" has entered the American lexicon and religious leaders often point to the movies themes of selflessness and rebirth .
The moral of this little story for the Phillies is simple. Stop complaining and get it right.
Ignore the ignorant fans, stop blaming the manager and stop dreaming about the unlimited funds that rest a couple hours up the Jersey Turnpike.
Come hell or high water -- make the playoffs -- so we can all mercifully move on from our very own Groundhog Day.
The Phanatic Magazine
An 8-2 win in Miami doesn't change the fact that the Philadelphia Phillies are off to yet another disappointing April and are flat out scared to play in front of a fan base that's circling like sharks in bloody water.
And, if the Phillies end up parting ways with Charlie Manuel early this season, conventional wisdom says they will look to the bench where Pat Gillick has assembled a host of former managers.
But -- close-circuit to “Toronto Pat” -- only one person can save this club -- Phil Connors.
You see, there are some serious karma issues going on with the Phillies right now and some important heavy-hitters far beyond this mortal coil have been pissed off by the local nine. And the only way to stop this ugly pattern is to get it right.
For those of you who don't know, Phil Connors is a fictional character played by Bill Murray in the 1993 comedy classic “Groundhog Day.”
In the film Connors is an egotistical Pittsburgh TV weatherman who, while on assignment covering the annual February 2 Groundhog Day event in Punxsutawney, finds himself repeating the same day over and over again.
Connors, his producer Rita (played by Andie McDowell) , and cameraman Larry(Chris Elliott) find themselves stuck in Punxsutawney when a blizzard develops, closing the roads and shutting down any phone service.
Forced to stay Phil rises the next morning, to find it is Groundhog Day again and everything happens in exactly the same way. At first, Connors takes the tact I would. He seizes on his situation and gathers information on the locals to seduce women, rob banks and basically live without any consequences.
But, finally he realizes he is being tested and the only way to get out of his predicament is to “Do it right.”
Soon, Connors drops the egoism, starts helping others and finds love with Rita. Only then does he wake up to February 3.
A bit sappy perhaps but the film’s legend has grown over the years and in December of 2006, “Groundhog Day” was one of 25 films that were added to the National Film Registry. Meanwhile, the phrase "Groundhog Day" has entered the American lexicon and religious leaders often point to the movies themes of selflessness and rebirth .
The moral of this little story for the Phillies is simple. Stop complaining and get it right.
Ignore the ignorant fans, stop blaming the manager and stop dreaming about the unlimited funds that rest a couple hours up the Jersey Turnpike.
Come hell or high water -- make the playoffs -- so we can all mercifully move on from our very own Groundhog Day.
Friday, April 06, 2007
Spikes named to NFL Player Advisory Council
New Eagles linebacker Takeo Spikes is part of a newly formed advisory council that will report to NFL commissioner Roger Goodell on a regular basis.
Goodell and NFLPA executive director Gene Upshaw announced on Friday the members of the council that were chosen to discuss competition on the field, player safety, medical and health issues, player conduct, retired player issues, and other matters.
Off the wagon
By Michael Rushton
Phanatic Magazine
If you haven't gotten aboard the Phillies bandwagon yet, now just might be the time. Because apparently, plenty of people have already jumped off.
Three games in, an 0-3 start, and people around the city are quickly pushing the panic button.
The bullpen has been just as bad as advertised, the team is still free-swinging, and Charlie Manuel has already jumped up one list; the list of manager most likely to be fired first.
So what has the problem been so far? To be honest, we should have seen this coming. The Phillies are doing in April of this year what they always do in April. That is, strikeout a lot, leave runners on base, and just plain play without confidence.
Here is what we have learned so far.
Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino will frustrate us again this season. Sure, Rollins is batting .364, but has struck out three times in 11 at-bats already, and is still hacking at low pitches. Victorino is doing his best to impress Rollins. He has three whiffs in nine at-bats.
Manuel still has no clue. Perhaps the talk of his managerial skills, or lack there of, are getting to him. Why else would he bat the slow-footed, powerful Ryan Howard third and the smooth-swinging, faster Chase Utley fourth. It may be my wild guess, but I think Manuel was over-managing there, trying to make people think he had some sophisticated strategy hidden deep down inside.
Come on Uncle Charlie, filling out the lineup card should be your easiest part of the day.
This was our offensive upgrade at third base? Through three games, Wes Helms is batting .167. Sadly, though, his two RBI are tied for the team lead. To be honest with you, I completely lose interest in the Phillies lineup after Pat Burrell bats, and I only suffer through Burrell just to see if this is the game he finally snaps and flips-off the whole stadium. After that, Aaron Rowand, Helms and whoever is catching interests me little.
Still, I keep telling myself it is too early to give up on Helms...
The Phillies, through three games, are batting .179 with runners in scoring position, sixth worse in all of baseball. Did we forget this was the Phillies' biggest problem last season, a glaring hole in their game that nobody addressed?
But seriously, it is way too early to give up on the team as a whole. However, improvements need to be made, or the club will be fighting from behind all season, again.
And remember, Ryan Howard and Tom Gordon are not the problem. Howard had at least one home run taken away from him by the wind, and Gordon is a closer, and closers occasionally blow games. He did so five times last season and was an All-Star. This one just came at the worse possible time.
Howard's home runs will come.
Don't jump off the wagon yet. Wait until at least May.
Michael Rushton isn't yet ready to give up on the Phillies, or the show "Lost." Tell him what you have given up on, other than his writing, at mrushton@phanaticmag.com
Phanatic Magazine
If you haven't gotten aboard the Phillies bandwagon yet, now just might be the time. Because apparently, plenty of people have already jumped off.
Three games in, an 0-3 start, and people around the city are quickly pushing the panic button.
The bullpen has been just as bad as advertised, the team is still free-swinging, and Charlie Manuel has already jumped up one list; the list of manager most likely to be fired first.
So what has the problem been so far? To be honest, we should have seen this coming. The Phillies are doing in April of this year what they always do in April. That is, strikeout a lot, leave runners on base, and just plain play without confidence.
Here is what we have learned so far.
Jimmy Rollins and Shane Victorino will frustrate us again this season. Sure, Rollins is batting .364, but has struck out three times in 11 at-bats already, and is still hacking at low pitches. Victorino is doing his best to impress Rollins. He has three whiffs in nine at-bats.
Manuel still has no clue. Perhaps the talk of his managerial skills, or lack there of, are getting to him. Why else would he bat the slow-footed, powerful Ryan Howard third and the smooth-swinging, faster Chase Utley fourth. It may be my wild guess, but I think Manuel was over-managing there, trying to make people think he had some sophisticated strategy hidden deep down inside.
Come on Uncle Charlie, filling out the lineup card should be your easiest part of the day.
This was our offensive upgrade at third base? Through three games, Wes Helms is batting .167. Sadly, though, his two RBI are tied for the team lead. To be honest with you, I completely lose interest in the Phillies lineup after Pat Burrell bats, and I only suffer through Burrell just to see if this is the game he finally snaps and flips-off the whole stadium. After that, Aaron Rowand, Helms and whoever is catching interests me little.
Still, I keep telling myself it is too early to give up on Helms...
The Phillies, through three games, are batting .179 with runners in scoring position, sixth worse in all of baseball. Did we forget this was the Phillies' biggest problem last season, a glaring hole in their game that nobody addressed?
But seriously, it is way too early to give up on the team as a whole. However, improvements need to be made, or the club will be fighting from behind all season, again.
And remember, Ryan Howard and Tom Gordon are not the problem. Howard had at least one home run taken away from him by the wind, and Gordon is a closer, and closers occasionally blow games. He did so five times last season and was an All-Star. This one just came at the worse possible time.
Howard's home runs will come.
Don't jump off the wagon yet. Wait until at least May.
Michael Rushton isn't yet ready to give up on the Phillies, or the show "Lost." Tell him what you have given up on, other than his writing, at mrushton@phanaticmag.com
1993 remembered
Don't give up hope just yet.
Check out this documentary, covering one Philly street corner just after the Fightin's claimed a spot in the World Series.
Check out this documentary, covering one Philly street corner just after the Fightin's claimed a spot in the World Series.
Victorino's benching explained
Charlie Manuel told reporters after Thursday night's loss to the Braves that Shane Victorino was replaced by Jayson Werth in the lineup in part because Victorino left Spring Training with a stiff back.
The other rationale was that he felt the right-handed Werth was a good matchup against southpaw Chuck James.
Manuel also said that the benching had nothing to do with the base-running error in the latter stages of Wednesday's game.
The other rationale was that he felt the right-handed Werth was a good matchup against southpaw Chuck James.
Manuel also said that the benching had nothing to do with the base-running error in the latter stages of Wednesday's game.
Garcia on the mend
At least help is on the way.
Freddy Garcia was lights out in a rehab assignment, tossing 3 1/3 scoreless frames for Clearwater on Thursday night.
He scattered three hits while fanning seven and walking one. Garcia is expected to make one more rehab start before rejoining the big-league club on April 15.
Freddy Garcia was lights out in a rehab assignment, tossing 3 1/3 scoreless frames for Clearwater on Thursday night.
He scattered three hits while fanning seven and walking one. Garcia is expected to make one more rehab start before rejoining the big-league club on April 15.
Thursday, April 05, 2007
Phils fall again
By Greg Wiley
The Phanatic Magazine
Brian McCann drove in two more runs and Kelly Johnson highlighted a six-run fifth inning with a two-run homer, as the Atlanta Braves completed a three-game series sweep of the Philadelphia Phillies with an 8-4 win at Citizens Bank Park.
Scott Thorman also drove in two runs and Edgar Renteria had three hits for the Braves, who are off to their best start since beginning the 1994 campaign with seven consecutive wins.
Jeff Francoeur and Andruw Jones drove in a run apiece and Chipper Jones scored twice for Atlanta, which now heads to Turner Field for their home opener on Friday against the Mets. New York also won their first three games, setting up an interesting early season series between the two division rivals.
Chuck James (1-0) started for the Braves and earned the victory. The left- hander allowed just one run on six hits, striking out five and walking one in five innings of work.
McCann had a stellar opening series, going 6-for-12 with two homers, a league- leading tying six RBI and three runs scored. His two-run ninth-inning homer on Wednesday forced extra innings, helping the Braves to an eventual 3-2 win. Renteria also had a productive set, ending 7-for-15 with two homers, three RBI and three runs scored. Renteria also has a 10-game hitting streak dating back to last season.
Pat Burrell ended 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored for the Phillies, who blew late-inning leads in the first two games of this set before falling behind early and never recovering in the finale.
Chase Utley added three hits for Philadelphia, which also got off to a slow start last year by losing its first four games. The Phillies will try to get their first win of the season on Friday when they travel to Florida to face the Marlins in the opener of a three-game set.
Adam Eaton (0-1) made his regular-season debut for the Phillies and suffered the loss, surrendering eight runs -- seven earned -- on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. The right-hander, who was signed in the off-season, also walked four and struck out three.
The Braves got going in the first inning and it was McCann who inflicted the damage, but it was a throwing error by Ryan Howard at first that allowed it. With one out and a runner on first, Chipper Jones hit a would-be inning-ending double-play grounder to Howard. His throw to shortstop Jimmy Rollins covering second, however, sailed into left field, keeping the inning alive.
Eaton then walked Andruw Jones and McCann followed with a single to plate two runs for the early lead.
The Phils got a run back in the fourth when Burrell doubled home Utley, who led off the frame with a two-bagger of his own.
Atlanta, though, put the game out of reach in the next inning, scoring six times for a seven-run lead. Johnson began the inning's scoring with a one-out two-run homer. Chipper Jones then started a two-out rally with a base hit and scored on Andruw Jones' double. After McCann was intentionally walked, Francoeur singled home Andruw Jones to force Eaton from the game in favor of Joe Bisenius. Thorman capped the inning's scoring when he greeted Bisenius with a two-run double.
Philadelphia got a run back in the sixth when Burrell scored on a Greg Dobbs ground out, but Howard and Burrell ended up striking out with runners on first and second to end the seventh. Rollins stranded a pair of runners in the eighth by making the final out.
Wes Helms and Shane Victorino both worked bases-loaded walks in the ninth to make it a four-run game, but Rafael Soriano came on with two outs and got pinch-hitter Carlos Ruiz to fly out to shallow left field to end the game.
Soriano got his first save of the season with his one-pitch appearance.
The Phanatic Magazine
Brian McCann drove in two more runs and Kelly Johnson highlighted a six-run fifth inning with a two-run homer, as the Atlanta Braves completed a three-game series sweep of the Philadelphia Phillies with an 8-4 win at Citizens Bank Park.
Scott Thorman also drove in two runs and Edgar Renteria had three hits for the Braves, who are off to their best start since beginning the 1994 campaign with seven consecutive wins.
Jeff Francoeur and Andruw Jones drove in a run apiece and Chipper Jones scored twice for Atlanta, which now heads to Turner Field for their home opener on Friday against the Mets. New York also won their first three games, setting up an interesting early season series between the two division rivals.
Chuck James (1-0) started for the Braves and earned the victory. The left- hander allowed just one run on six hits, striking out five and walking one in five innings of work.
McCann had a stellar opening series, going 6-for-12 with two homers, a league- leading tying six RBI and three runs scored. His two-run ninth-inning homer on Wednesday forced extra innings, helping the Braves to an eventual 3-2 win. Renteria also had a productive set, ending 7-for-15 with two homers, three RBI and three runs scored. Renteria also has a 10-game hitting streak dating back to last season.
Pat Burrell ended 2-for-4 with an RBI and a run scored for the Phillies, who blew late-inning leads in the first two games of this set before falling behind early and never recovering in the finale.
Chase Utley added three hits for Philadelphia, which also got off to a slow start last year by losing its first four games. The Phillies will try to get their first win of the season on Friday when they travel to Florida to face the Marlins in the opener of a three-game set.
Adam Eaton (0-1) made his regular-season debut for the Phillies and suffered the loss, surrendering eight runs -- seven earned -- on seven hits in 4 2/3 innings. The right-hander, who was signed in the off-season, also walked four and struck out three.
The Braves got going in the first inning and it was McCann who inflicted the damage, but it was a throwing error by Ryan Howard at first that allowed it. With one out and a runner on first, Chipper Jones hit a would-be inning-ending double-play grounder to Howard. His throw to shortstop Jimmy Rollins covering second, however, sailed into left field, keeping the inning alive.
Eaton then walked Andruw Jones and McCann followed with a single to plate two runs for the early lead.
The Phils got a run back in the fourth when Burrell doubled home Utley, who led off the frame with a two-bagger of his own.
Atlanta, though, put the game out of reach in the next inning, scoring six times for a seven-run lead. Johnson began the inning's scoring with a one-out two-run homer. Chipper Jones then started a two-out rally with a base hit and scored on Andruw Jones' double. After McCann was intentionally walked, Francoeur singled home Andruw Jones to force Eaton from the game in favor of Joe Bisenius. Thorman capped the inning's scoring when he greeted Bisenius with a two-run double.
Philadelphia got a run back in the sixth when Burrell scored on a Greg Dobbs ground out, but Howard and Burrell ended up striking out with runners on first and second to end the seventh. Rollins stranded a pair of runners in the eighth by making the final out.
Wes Helms and Shane Victorino both worked bases-loaded walks in the ninth to make it a four-run game, but Rafael Soriano came on with two outs and got pinch-hitter Carlos Ruiz to fly out to shallow left field to end the game.
Soriano got his first save of the season with his one-pitch appearance.
Phillies make deal for reliever
-Courtesy of the Philadelphia Phillies
Righthander Francisco Rosario was acquired by the Phillies from Toronto in exchange for cash considerations, Assistant General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. announced today.
Rosario, 26, went 1-2 with a 6.65 ERA in 17 games (one start) for Toronto last season, his first in the major leagues. In parts of eight minor league seasons, Rosario went 20-26 with a 3.38 ERA in 148 games (84 starts). He compiled 478 strikeouts in 498.2 innings.
During spring training last month, Rosario, a native of the Dominican Republic, went 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in eight games, with nine strikeouts in nine innings.
Rosario was originally signed as an amateur free agent by Toronto on January 11, 1999. He brings the Phillies to 37 on the 40-man roster and is expected to join the team in Miami tomorrow.
A move will be made to fit Rosario on the 25-man roster once he reports
Righthander Francisco Rosario was acquired by the Phillies from Toronto in exchange for cash considerations, Assistant General Manager Ruben Amaro Jr. announced today.
Rosario, 26, went 1-2 with a 6.65 ERA in 17 games (one start) for Toronto last season, his first in the major leagues. In parts of eight minor league seasons, Rosario went 20-26 with a 3.38 ERA in 148 games (84 starts). He compiled 478 strikeouts in 498.2 innings.
During spring training last month, Rosario, a native of the Dominican Republic, went 1-0 with a 3.00 ERA in eight games, with nine strikeouts in nine innings.
Rosario was originally signed as an amateur free agent by Toronto on January 11, 1999. He brings the Phillies to 37 on the 40-man roster and is expected to join the team in Miami tomorrow.
A move will be made to fit Rosario on the 25-man roster once he reports
Flyers recall D Parent
-Courtesy of the Philadelphia Flyers
The Philadelphia Flyers recalled 6'2", 195-pound defenseman Ryan Parent from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms, on Thursday.
Parent, 20, was scoreless in one game for the Phantoms this season. He was assigned to the Phantoms on Wednesday, April 4, after he was recalled from the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League on Tuesday, April 3. Parent recorded three goals and seven assists for 10 points and 86 penalty minutes in 43 games for Guelph and posted an assist in four games as Guelph was eliminated from the OHL Playoffs by the Plymouth Whalers, four games to none.
He was named the Storm's captain prior to the start of the 2006-07 season. Parent was acquired by the Flyers, along with Scottie Upshall and first and third round picks in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Peter Forsberg on February 15, 2007.
Parent registered 10 goals and 46 assists for 56 points and 262 penalty minutes in 227 regular season games in four seasons with the Storm (2003-04 through 2006-07) and was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team following the 2005-06 season. A native of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Parent was a member of the Canadian National Team, which won the gold medal at the 2006 and 2007 World Junior Championships.
He was originally drafted by Nashville in the first round (18th overall) of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.
The Philadelphia Flyers recalled 6'2", 195-pound defenseman Ryan Parent from their American Hockey League affiliate, the Philadelphia Phantoms, on Thursday.
Parent, 20, was scoreless in one game for the Phantoms this season. He was assigned to the Phantoms on Wednesday, April 4, after he was recalled from the Guelph Storm of the Ontario Hockey League on Tuesday, April 3. Parent recorded three goals and seven assists for 10 points and 86 penalty minutes in 43 games for Guelph and posted an assist in four games as Guelph was eliminated from the OHL Playoffs by the Plymouth Whalers, four games to none.
He was named the Storm's captain prior to the start of the 2006-07 season. Parent was acquired by the Flyers, along with Scottie Upshall and first and third round picks in the 2007 NHL Entry Draft, from the Nashville Predators in exchange for Peter Forsberg on February 15, 2007.
Parent registered 10 goals and 46 assists for 56 points and 262 penalty minutes in 227 regular season games in four seasons with the Storm (2003-04 through 2006-07) and was named to the OHL Second All-Star Team following the 2005-06 season. A native of Prince Albert, Saskatchewan, Parent was a member of the Canadian National Team, which won the gold medal at the 2006 and 2007 World Junior Championships.
He was originally drafted by Nashville in the first round (18th overall) of the 2005 NHL Entry Draft.
My Masters
By Tim McManus
The Phanatic Magazine
I'm not a golf guy.
I'm horrible at it, I have only a vague grasp of its history, and I'm not versed at all in the current field assembled for the 2007 Masters.
But I have a pretty good story:
My ex-girlfriend's birthday is in early April, and happened to fall on the final round of the '05 Masters when her and I were in full relationship gear. We had been dating for about eight months at this point.
Her parents threw a party, and invited the entire family, myself and one of her best friends. It's a nice day out and most of the gathering had moved outside, while a few of the guys set up camp in the living room so they could catch some of the Sunday round, then would wander out onto the deck for a few minutes to stay civil.
Well it was my girl's birthday and I didn't really know anybody anyway, so I stayed by her side for the first hour or so. But at one point I found myself a bit uncomfortable, as she had been talking to her uncle and I was left in the 'tweener zone, so I decided to get up and check out the golf. Her friend, likely feeling the same pinch I was, decided to join me.
We sit down, and I'm surrounded by her pops, her uncle and a few of their friends. And I'm feeling pretty proud of myself: The first time I was ever at one of her family's parties, her and all the women went into the other room as is tradition, and all of the men stayed in the living room to watch football. I felt real awkward that day -- knowing not a soul -- but here I was branching out and feeling more at ease. Yeah, sure, grab me another beer.
The real story, meanwhile, is developing on the course.
Tiger Woods entered the round with a three-stroke lead and appeared poised to run away with this thing, but instead found himself locked in a battle with Chris DiMarco on the back nine. DiMarco's approach to the 14th rolled within two feet of the hole, and he tapped in for a birdie to get within one of the lead.
My interior alarm is going off, time to check on the birthday girl (Her friend gets up and follows, a development that would ruin me later).
OK, she's still locked in a conversation, boyfriend duty's taken care of, what's going on in the tournament?
DiMarco's still one back and hit his tee shot at 16 onto the green. Woods missed wide left.
Interesting.
If you don't know what happened next, I apologize to you for coming this far. Woods hits a chip shot all the way to the top of the green (What's he doing?!) the ball stops in its tracks, then begins trickling towards the hole like it has a tracking system in it (Oh!).
Everyone in the room is getting loud, louder, and in a near scream as the ball stops right on the lip, the Nike logo staring the camera right in the face as an Advertising Executive collapses in joy somewhere in the hills of California. The room inadvertently stomps in unison, trying to will the ball to move, and it works -- the logo begins creeping to the left before disappearing into the earth.
The greatest shot we'll ever see. We all knew it.
Everybody rips up from their seats, high-fiving every animate thing in site. We're locked in now. Let's see how this puppy works itself out!
We watched as Tiger bogeyed the final two holes to induce a playoff, then nailed a 14-foot putt for birdie in the first sudden-death hole to claim the green jacket. A pretty euphoric moment.
Little did I know that a storm was brewing around me all the while.
My girlfriend had been growing more and more angry the longer I stayed in the living room, and the problem was compounded ten-fold because her friend chose the same fate. Reacting to her poor state, the women around her began to question why the two of us were absent together, until finally, everyone agreed that there was an injustice going on, and on the poor girl's birthday.
Just as Tiger was crowned we all got up and started walking outside, as the mother came in, put her finger in my face, and screamed, "Doghouse!" over and over and over.
Uh-oh.
The birthday cake presentation was minutes later, with the entire female presence humming in disdain while shooting something a bit sharper than daggers at me with their eyes.
I was forced to spend the next couple of hours in a situation I sincerely hope no man has to ever go through again. I couldn't leave, or I'd be labeled both guilty, rude and a coward. And I could speak to no one -- all of the women hated me, and all of the men knew better than to associate with me. My only ally was her friend, and talking to her would have been the worst move of all. So I stood there, in silence, for an extended eternity, until finally I was granted my leave.
Needless to say, that relationship didn't work out so well.
The family ultimately realized that I wasn't the anti-Christ and we even vacationed together a few weeks later, but the girl and I broke up before summer's end.
And I’m not trying to suggest that the two were directly related, but it did reveal a couple of pure facts:
1) She doesn't have any appreciation for an historical sports moments and
2) She apparently thought that I was the kind of guy that would try to get with her friend, on her birthday, in front of her family.
Given my livelihood and my character, those are about as bright a red flags as you're going to wave.
So in the ensuing months when I was heartbroken and low, I could look back at that day, and remember in part why things didn't work out. And, I can say that she may have stomped my soul, but she didn't make me miss Tiger's chip.
At this time of year, all of it comes rushing back, and I can't help but sit back and reflect.
The Masters -- a tradition unlike any other.
Tim appears on this page every Thursday. You can contact him at tmcmanus@phanaticmag.com
Eagles draft update
The Eagles have recently met with Virginia Tech long snapper Nicholas Leeson, Northwestern guard Ryan Keenan and Rutgers center Darnell Stapelton.
They also have Texas cornerback Aaron Ross, Northwestern linebacker Nick Roach, Fresno State running back Dwyane Wright, Nebraska defensive end Adam Carriker, Houston quarterback Kevin Kolb and Texas defensive end Brian Robinson scheduled for visits this week.
They also have Texas cornerback Aaron Ross, Northwestern linebacker Nick Roach, Fresno State running back Dwyane Wright, Nebraska defensive end Adam Carriker, Houston quarterback Kevin Kolb and Texas defensive end Brian Robinson scheduled for visits this week.
Wednesday, April 04, 2007
Deja Vu
By TIm McManus
The Phanatic Magazine
Brian McCann hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to tie the game and Scott Thorman put Atlanta ahead with a solo shot in the 11th, as the Braves rallied to topple the Philadelphia Phillies, 3-2, at Citizens Bank Park.
The Phanatic Magazine
Brian McCann hit a two-run homer in the ninth inning to tie the game and Scott Thorman put Atlanta ahead with a solo shot in the 11th, as the Braves rallied to topple the Philadelphia Phillies, 3-2, at Citizens Bank Park.
Tim Hudson got the start and allowed just one run on two hits over seven solid innings for Atlanta, which outhit the Phillies 10-6 but were held scoreless until the final inning. Macay McBride (1-0) picked up the win, and Bob Wickman notched his first save of the season.
Young lefthander Cole Hamels hurled seven-plus scoreless innings, scattering four hits while striking out eight for the Phillies, who fell 5-3 in 10 innings to the Braves in the season opener on Monday. Tom Gordon allowed the two-run blast in the ninth, though, and Ryan Madson (0-2) gave up the homer in extra innings to absorb the loss.
Carlos Ruiz homered and Shane Victorino drove in a run in defeat.
The Braves were shut down for almost the entire night, but finally broke through in their final at-bat. Jeff Francoeur started the frame by roping a double to center, and McCann followed with a blast to right that easily cleared the wall to knot the game at 2-2.
The scoring went silent until the top of the 11th, when Thorman belted a homer to right-center to put the Braves in front. Wickman then pitched around a two- out hit in the bottom of the inning to seal the comeback win.
The Phillies didn't get their first hit of the game until the bottom the fifth with two outs, but it was a big one. Hudson left a pitch up and inside, and Ruiz turned and launched it into the left-field seats to put the home team up 1-0.
The Braves threatened in the seventh, putting runners on the corners with two outs following singles from Andruw Jones and McCann and a groundout by Craig Wilson. Phils manager Charlie Manuel visited the mound and opted to stay with his starter, and it payed off as Hamels got Matt Diaz to ground out to end the inning.
The offense provided an insurance run in the eighth. Jimmy Rollins drew a one- out walk, swiped second, and then advanced to third on a throwing error by McCann. Victorino then cracked a double down the left-field line to make it 2-0.
Ryan Howard stepped in next and worked a walk, then tried to scored on Chase Utley's double off the wall in right. A perfect relay throw nabbed him at the plate, though, to end the frame.
Sixers edge Knicks; keep slim playoff hopes alive
By Greg Wiley
The Phanatic Magazine
Andre Iguodala scored 18 points and Kyle Korver tallied 17 to lead the Philadelphia 76ers over the New York Knicks, 92-90, at Madison Square Garden.
The Phanatic Magazine
Andre Iguodala scored 18 points and Kyle Korver tallied 17 to lead the Philadelphia 76ers over the New York Knicks, 92-90, at Madison Square Garden.
Andre Miller added 14 points and seven assists and Willie Green had 13 points for the Sixers, who have won two of three.
Stephon Marbury provided just about all the offense for the Knicks, scoring 30 points, grabbing seven rebounds and dishing out six assists, but it wasn't enough to stop his team's losing streak that has now reached three games.
Renaldo Balkman added 17 points and 16 boards and Eddy Curry had 14 points and 11 rebounds for New York, which remains 2 1/2 games behind the Orlando Magic for the final playoff spot in the Eastern Conference despite suffering its seventh loss in eight games.
Down 78-69 a little over four minutes into the final quarter, the Sixers went on a 21-5 run to take the lead for good. Korver, who had seven points during the surge, gave the Sixers the lead at 82-81, and Rodney Carney ended it with a jumper with 57 seconds left for a 90-83 lead.
New York made it interesting, drawing within 92-90 after a Marbury driving layup with three seconds left. Then, after Korver missed a pair of free throws with two seconds left, New York got the rebound and called a timeout with 1.1 seconds left.
On the ensuing inbounds, Marbury attempted a turn-around three-pointer, but it fell short and the Sixers escaped with the win.
Philadelphia won three of four from the Knicks this season.
The Sixers led for most of the contest, holding a 26-20 edge after one quarter and a 46-39 advantage at halftime.
Philadelphia then extended to a 53-43 lead after an Iguodala bucket in the opening minutes of the third quarter. However, New York quickly answered with a 15-4 run to take the lead. Still down by 10 points, 55-45, Marbury spearheaded the run by scoring 13 points and ending it with a free throw with just under 3 1/2 minutes remaining for a 60-59 edge.
New York continued to hold a one-point lead going into the fourth, 67-66, and then opened the stanza with a 12-3 run to extend to a 78-69 lead. Mardy Collins ended the surge with a three-pointer with just under eight minutes to play.
Former Eagles star Peaks passes away
By John McMullen
The Phanatic Magazine
Philadelphia Eagles running back Clarence Peaks passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 at a nursing home in Voorhees, NJ.
The Eagles originally selected Peaks in the first round of the 1957 draft and he still ranks 10th on the team's all-time rushing list with 2,927 yards gained during a seven-year stint in Philadelphia.
In 1960, Peaks led the Eagles in rushing, averaging 5.4 yards an attempt, but injured his ankle near the middle of the season and was forced to stand on the sidelines and watch as the team won the NFL Championship.
He was traded to Pittsburgh in 1964, and spent the final two seasons of his career with the Steelers.
After wrapping up his NFL career, Peaks went on to become an analyst for the WIP radio broadcast of Eagles games as well as a TV analyst with ABC for various NFL and college football games.
He is survived by two sons, Clarence Jr. and Allan, a brother, Ronald, and a sister, Cathy.
The Phanatic Magazine
Philadelphia Eagles running back Clarence Peaks passed away on Saturday at the age of 71 at a nursing home in Voorhees, NJ.
The Eagles originally selected Peaks in the first round of the 1957 draft and he still ranks 10th on the team's all-time rushing list with 2,927 yards gained during a seven-year stint in Philadelphia.
In 1960, Peaks led the Eagles in rushing, averaging 5.4 yards an attempt, but injured his ankle near the middle of the season and was forced to stand on the sidelines and watch as the team won the NFL Championship.
He was traded to Pittsburgh in 1964, and spent the final two seasons of his career with the Steelers.
After wrapping up his NFL career, Peaks went on to become an analyst for the WIP radio broadcast of Eagles games as well as a TV analyst with ABC for various NFL and college football games.
He is survived by two sons, Clarence Jr. and Allan, a brother, Ronald, and a sister, Cathy.
Bullpen Rumors
Rumors continue to swirl as to how the Phillies will address their bullpen. Most of the reports revolve around the club's need for another lefty in the bullpen.
A story by Derrick Goold (about half-way down) on the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Web site briefly says that the Phillies are a possible destination for lefty Ricardo Rincon, who was released by the St. Louis Cardinals. Philadelphia was one team thought to be interested in trading for Rincon before he was let go.
Read the article here.
George King of The New York Post wrote today that the Phillies made contact with Ron Villone and agent Scott Boras, but did not reach an agreement with the left-handed reliever. Villone was released by the New York Yankees last week.
Read the article here.
In addition to Rincon, general manger Pat Gillick told the The News Journal that the club is not interested in Dustin Hermanson , who was released by the Cincinnati Reds.
Read the article here.
A story by Derrick Goold (about half-way down) on the St. Louis Post-Dispatch's Web site briefly says that the Phillies are a possible destination for lefty Ricardo Rincon, who was released by the St. Louis Cardinals. Philadelphia was one team thought to be interested in trading for Rincon before he was let go.
Read the article here.
George King of The New York Post wrote today that the Phillies made contact with Ron Villone and agent Scott Boras, but did not reach an agreement with the left-handed reliever. Villone was released by the New York Yankees last week.
Read the article here.
In addition to Rincon, general manger Pat Gillick told the The News Journal that the club is not interested in Dustin Hermanson , who was released by the Cincinnati Reds.
Read the article here.
Vikings sign Doss
By John McMullen
The Phanatic Magazine
Safety Mike Doss was scheduled to visit with the Eagles today but he never made it to town. Doss agreed to a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings.
The fifth year veteran started 42 of the 46 career regular season games he has played in after originally being a second-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 2003. Doss was the 58th overall player selected in the draft and played under current Vikings Defensive Coordinator Leslie Frazier while in Indy.
Doss has been a part of a winning tradition in Indianapolis, going 38-13 in the games he has played for the Colts and the franchise has won the past four AFC South titles. He played the opening six games of 2006 with four starts before being sidelined with an ACL injury as the Colts went on to win Super Bowl XLI.
“Mike has been a winner throughout his career and he gives us a veteran presence,” said Vikings head coach Brad Childress. “It’s always important to add quality football players to the roster. He’s won a national championship and been part of a Super Bowl winner; that’s experience you can’t take for granted.”
The Phanatic Magazine
Safety Mike Doss was scheduled to visit with the Eagles today but he never made it to town. Doss agreed to a one-year deal with the Minnesota Vikings.
The fifth year veteran started 42 of the 46 career regular season games he has played in after originally being a second-round pick of the Indianapolis Colts in 2003. Doss was the 58th overall player selected in the draft and played under current Vikings Defensive Coordinator Leslie Frazier while in Indy.
Doss has been a part of a winning tradition in Indianapolis, going 38-13 in the games he has played for the Colts and the franchise has won the past four AFC South titles. He played the opening six games of 2006 with four starts before being sidelined with an ACL injury as the Colts went on to win Super Bowl XLI.
“Mike has been a winner throughout his career and he gives us a veteran presence,” said Vikings head coach Brad Childress. “It’s always important to add quality football players to the roster. He’s won a national championship and been part of a Super Bowl winner; that’s experience you can’t take for granted.”
NHL: The East's last-second scramble
By Steven Lienert
The Phanatic Magazine
The defending Stanley Cup champions can defend it no more.
Tampa Bay scored two third-period goals to knock off the Carolina Hurricanes Tuesday night, thus ending any chance the Canes had at making the playoffs.
Toronto held off the pesky Flyers in overtime, 3-2, to also keep their playoff hopes alive. The Leafs trail Montreal by a single point in the standings, and both teams will face off in their season finale on Saturday night in Toronto.
First things first, though -- the Canadiens travel to Madison Square Garden on Thursday, while the Leafs skate on the Island. The Rangers and Lightning are two points ahead of the Habs for the sixth and seventh spots, meaning the MTL-NYR game will have major implications.
The Lightning trail division-leading Atlanta by one point, meaning Tampa could lead-frog the Thrashers for the third-seed.
Here are some scenarios: Rangers and Leafs win Thursday setting up Saturday's dramatic conclusion for the eighth spot in the East. The Rangers would then have 94 points, the Leafs 91 and Montreal 90. New York would sew up at least the seventh spot and the winner of Saturday's game would be eighth.
If Montreal wins Thursday, it makes things difficult for the Leafs. They would then need the Penguins to defeat the Rangers on Saturday, while earning victories on Thursday and Saturday.
Meanwhile, if the Thrashers beat the Capitals on Wednesday, it would give them 95 points, three ahead of Tampa. The Hurricanes then beat Atlanta on Friday, while the Lightning knocks off lowly Florida, setting up a division-title showdown between Atlanta and Tampa on Saturday, with the third seed on the line.
If Atlanta loses to Washington and Tampa beats Florida, Tampa would temporarily be in the third seed entering Saturday's Southeast division showdown.
What's gonna happen? My crystal puck says Atlanta holds off Tampa for the third-seed, the Lightning will be the sixth-seed, followed by the Rangers and then the Habs. The Leafs are on the outside looking in.
Most teams have just two games left to determine the fate of an entire season. If the end of the regular season is this good, how awesome will the playoffs be?
Lienert skates into the playoffs at slienert@phanaticmag.com
The Phanatic Magazine
The defending Stanley Cup champions can defend it no more.
Tampa Bay scored two third-period goals to knock off the Carolina Hurricanes Tuesday night, thus ending any chance the Canes had at making the playoffs.
Toronto held off the pesky Flyers in overtime, 3-2, to also keep their playoff hopes alive. The Leafs trail Montreal by a single point in the standings, and both teams will face off in their season finale on Saturday night in Toronto.
First things first, though -- the Canadiens travel to Madison Square Garden on Thursday, while the Leafs skate on the Island. The Rangers and Lightning are two points ahead of the Habs for the sixth and seventh spots, meaning the MTL-NYR game will have major implications.
The Lightning trail division-leading Atlanta by one point, meaning Tampa could lead-frog the Thrashers for the third-seed.
Here are some scenarios: Rangers and Leafs win Thursday setting up Saturday's dramatic conclusion for the eighth spot in the East. The Rangers would then have 94 points, the Leafs 91 and Montreal 90. New York would sew up at least the seventh spot and the winner of Saturday's game would be eighth.
If Montreal wins Thursday, it makes things difficult for the Leafs. They would then need the Penguins to defeat the Rangers on Saturday, while earning victories on Thursday and Saturday.
Meanwhile, if the Thrashers beat the Capitals on Wednesday, it would give them 95 points, three ahead of Tampa. The Hurricanes then beat Atlanta on Friday, while the Lightning knocks off lowly Florida, setting up a division-title showdown between Atlanta and Tampa on Saturday, with the third seed on the line.
If Atlanta loses to Washington and Tampa beats Florida, Tampa would temporarily be in the third seed entering Saturday's Southeast division showdown.
What's gonna happen? My crystal puck says Atlanta holds off Tampa for the third-seed, the Lightning will be the sixth-seed, followed by the Rangers and then the Habs. The Leafs are on the outside looking in.
Most teams have just two games left to determine the fate of an entire season. If the end of the regular season is this good, how awesome will the playoffs be?
Lienert skates into the playoffs at slienert@phanaticmag.com
Worst Opening Day Ever
By Steven Lienert
The Phanatic Magazine
In Philly, certain things aren't to be messed with.
Pretzels are supposed to be soft, cheesesteaks aren't supposed to be vegetarian and the Phillie Phanatic is supposed to be green.
Yet the Phillies managed to violate two of those three caveats on Monday.
The Phillies painted the Phanatic red for the second consecutive Opening Day, and it's bordering on sacrilege. Making matters worse, there is now such a thing as a vegetarian cheesesteak at Citizens Bank Park.
What the @#$% is going on?
The Phanatic is an icon -- like Tony Duke said to Apollo Creed before his first fight against the Italian Stallion, "The girls love ya; men, old people love ya."
That's how people feel about the Phanatic (the furry guy, not our magazine).
It was the last straw on what was really a bad day.
Why are they messing with something like that when they can work on fixing the freakin' gridlock that occurs anytime an event occurs in South Philly? After the game ended in typical Phillies fashion, it was IMPOSSIBLE to get anywhere.
That didn't take into account what happened before the game.
Penn-Dot shut down one of the two lanes on the inbound Schuylkill Expressway for road work Monday morning, causing a traffic jam from Belmont Avenue past the Turnpike. It took an hour to get from the 476 interchange to City Line Ave., normally a 10-minute jaunt at best.
But if Penn-Dot did that on Tuesday, a Phillies off day when 48,000 people weren't jamming the highways at mid-morning, why, they wouldn't be causing people problems, would they?
After that, it was wait, wait and more wait.
We got into the ballpark before noon, but only because I left my house at 10 a.m. I got in line for a cheesesteak at Rick's. Twenty-five minutes later, after coming to grips with the fact that there was indeed a vegetarian cheesesteak, I got my sandwich. Ugh.
Then I wanted to go see the new Pin Exchange at the ballpark -- a new place where patrons can buy and trade baseball pins.
Except none of the ushers knew what I was talking about. I got tossed around more than a new inmate in his first prison shower. And forget about buying an Opening Day pin -- the lines were so long in the store that ushers were being used to let only 10 people in at a time.
I got to my seat on the Scoreboard porch in time for all the festivities, but only because I decided against standing in another line. But that changed in the fourth inning, when I ran out of beer.
The line at Harry the K's beer vending stand was eight-deep across the bar, with three cashiers dispensing beer without stopping the taps. That was an inning-and-a-half of baseball I wasn't getting back (darn my alcoholism.)
Then Brett Myers gave up a homer to Edgar Renteria to tie the game -- extra innings. Ryan Madson entered in the 10th and promptly threw gasoline on the fire, giving up another homer to Renteria. Another long walk back to the car.
Little did I know that I would be stuck there for the next two hours. Outside the ballpark, it was complete gridlock in every direction you went. Packer Ave was gridlocked at the 95 on ramp. The on-ramps outside the Wachovia Center weren't moving in either direction.
Lights and lanes became insignificant -- chaos ruled. If you could fit your car in somewhere, it was suddenly a lane. Roads that were two way became one way without warning. There was nothing anyone could do but sit and wait.
Which gave me time to think -- why did the Phillies ever turn the Phanatic Red? That'd be like tuning in to listen to Harry Kalas only to get Chris Wheeler.
Some things just shouldn't be messed with....
Lienert vents his frustrations from time-to-time on Wednesdays. He can be reached at slienert@phanaticmag.com
The Phanatic Magazine
In Philly, certain things aren't to be messed with.
Pretzels are supposed to be soft, cheesesteaks aren't supposed to be vegetarian and the Phillie Phanatic is supposed to be green.
Yet the Phillies managed to violate two of those three caveats on Monday.
The Phillies painted the Phanatic red for the second consecutive Opening Day, and it's bordering on sacrilege. Making matters worse, there is now such a thing as a vegetarian cheesesteak at Citizens Bank Park.
What the @#$% is going on?
The Phanatic is an icon -- like Tony Duke said to Apollo Creed before his first fight against the Italian Stallion, "The girls love ya; men, old people love ya."
That's how people feel about the Phanatic (the furry guy, not our magazine).
It was the last straw on what was really a bad day.
Why are they messing with something like that when they can work on fixing the freakin' gridlock that occurs anytime an event occurs in South Philly? After the game ended in typical Phillies fashion, it was IMPOSSIBLE to get anywhere.
That didn't take into account what happened before the game.
Penn-Dot shut down one of the two lanes on the inbound Schuylkill Expressway for road work Monday morning, causing a traffic jam from Belmont Avenue past the Turnpike. It took an hour to get from the 476 interchange to City Line Ave., normally a 10-minute jaunt at best.
But if Penn-Dot did that on Tuesday, a Phillies off day when 48,000 people weren't jamming the highways at mid-morning, why, they wouldn't be causing people problems, would they?
After that, it was wait, wait and more wait.
We got into the ballpark before noon, but only because I left my house at 10 a.m. I got in line for a cheesesteak at Rick's. Twenty-five minutes later, after coming to grips with the fact that there was indeed a vegetarian cheesesteak, I got my sandwich. Ugh.
Then I wanted to go see the new Pin Exchange at the ballpark -- a new place where patrons can buy and trade baseball pins.
Except none of the ushers knew what I was talking about. I got tossed around more than a new inmate in his first prison shower. And forget about buying an Opening Day pin -- the lines were so long in the store that ushers were being used to let only 10 people in at a time.
I got to my seat on the Scoreboard porch in time for all the festivities, but only because I decided against standing in another line. But that changed in the fourth inning, when I ran out of beer.
The line at Harry the K's beer vending stand was eight-deep across the bar, with three cashiers dispensing beer without stopping the taps. That was an inning-and-a-half of baseball I wasn't getting back (darn my alcoholism.)
Then Brett Myers gave up a homer to Edgar Renteria to tie the game -- extra innings. Ryan Madson entered in the 10th and promptly threw gasoline on the fire, giving up another homer to Renteria. Another long walk back to the car.
Little did I know that I would be stuck there for the next two hours. Outside the ballpark, it was complete gridlock in every direction you went. Packer Ave was gridlocked at the 95 on ramp. The on-ramps outside the Wachovia Center weren't moving in either direction.
Lights and lanes became insignificant -- chaos ruled. If you could fit your car in somewhere, it was suddenly a lane. Roads that were two way became one way without warning. There was nothing anyone could do but sit and wait.
Which gave me time to think -- why did the Phillies ever turn the Phanatic Red? That'd be like tuning in to listen to Harry Kalas only to get Chris Wheeler.
Some things just shouldn't be messed with....
Lienert vents his frustrations from time-to-time on Wednesdays. He can be reached at slienert@phanaticmag.com
Rutgers' season ends as Vols reach Summitt
By Jared Trexler
The Phanatic Magazine
Pat Summitt captured her seventh national championship -- the first after a nine-year drought -- and Rutgers' fairytale journey from Piscataway to Cleveland ended in heartache, as Tennessee claimed women's college basketball's crown jewel with a 59-46 victory over the Scarlet Knights.
The game pitted two legendary coaches on the court -- and close friends off it-- as one story line, with the match-up featuring a women's basketball juggernaut against a scrappy group that developed an image of rough and tough while storming through Duke and LSU on the way to the title game.
In the end, Candace Parker was too much with 17 points and seven rebounds, and Rutgers' perimeter shooting went cold to the tune of 2-of-10 from beyond the arc.
After making 8-of-10 from long distance in the first half of a 59-35 drubbing of the Tigers in the national semifinal, the Scarlet Knights made just 2-of-10 in the second half.
The trend continued at the worst possible time.
Kia Vaughn led the Scarlet Knights (27-9) with 20 points and 10 rebounds, but star Matee Ajavon finished with only eight points while attempting just nine shots before fouling out.
Tennessee (34-3) wasn't much better from anywhere on the floor at Quicken Loans Arena in the early going, starting 2-of-14 in a game played at Rutgers' liking -- slow and low scoring.
Yet, the Vols out-slugged the Scarlet Knights in the grinding struggle, getting second and third scoring opportunities after Rutgers had played 25-plus seconds of defense.
Nicky Anosike totaled 10 offensive rebounds, as the Vols grabbed a stunning 24 offensive boards to just 18 defensive rebounds.
In the second half, it was the shots that didn't need rebounds that drove a dagger through women's hoops' version of David.
Goliath turned to Shannon Bobbitt, who drained three treys in less than three minutes to build a dwindling advantage.
Her first three followed a Vaughn layup, giving the Vols a 38-28 lead. Her final three capped an 11-2 stretch for a 46-30 advantage. Bobbitt scored 13 points in the victory.
C. Vivian Stringer's face went firmly into her hands, not able to look at a team far different than the club that had dictated play on the way to Cleveland, then continuing the physical play in Saturday's semifinal.
Looking for her first-ever national championship, 25 years after taking Cheyney to the 1982 title game, Stringer watched her club take one more swing at the Vols, drawing within 50-42 on Ajavon's three with just under three minutes to go.
Tennessee -- unlike any of Rutgers' other five opponents -- hit back. Parker buried four free throws and the Scarlet Knights stayed cold from the perimeter as the clock ticked toward the Vols' first national title since 1998.
Despite the early struggles from the floor, Tennessee never trailed by more than two points in the first half and took the lead for good on Alberta Auguste's two free throws with about 9:30 remaining.
The Vols lead 29-18 after 20 minutes.
The Phanatic Magazine
Pat Summitt captured her seventh national championship -- the first after a nine-year drought -- and Rutgers' fairytale journey from Piscataway to Cleveland ended in heartache, as Tennessee claimed women's college basketball's crown jewel with a 59-46 victory over the Scarlet Knights.
The game pitted two legendary coaches on the court -- and close friends off it-- as one story line, with the match-up featuring a women's basketball juggernaut against a scrappy group that developed an image of rough and tough while storming through Duke and LSU on the way to the title game.
In the end, Candace Parker was too much with 17 points and seven rebounds, and Rutgers' perimeter shooting went cold to the tune of 2-of-10 from beyond the arc.
After making 8-of-10 from long distance in the first half of a 59-35 drubbing of the Tigers in the national semifinal, the Scarlet Knights made just 2-of-10 in the second half.
The trend continued at the worst possible time.
Kia Vaughn led the Scarlet Knights (27-9) with 20 points and 10 rebounds, but star Matee Ajavon finished with only eight points while attempting just nine shots before fouling out.
Tennessee (34-3) wasn't much better from anywhere on the floor at Quicken Loans Arena in the early going, starting 2-of-14 in a game played at Rutgers' liking -- slow and low scoring.
Yet, the Vols out-slugged the Scarlet Knights in the grinding struggle, getting second and third scoring opportunities after Rutgers had played 25-plus seconds of defense.
Nicky Anosike totaled 10 offensive rebounds, as the Vols grabbed a stunning 24 offensive boards to just 18 defensive rebounds.
In the second half, it was the shots that didn't need rebounds that drove a dagger through women's hoops' version of David.
Goliath turned to Shannon Bobbitt, who drained three treys in less than three minutes to build a dwindling advantage.
Her first three followed a Vaughn layup, giving the Vols a 38-28 lead. Her final three capped an 11-2 stretch for a 46-30 advantage. Bobbitt scored 13 points in the victory.
C. Vivian Stringer's face went firmly into her hands, not able to look at a team far different than the club that had dictated play on the way to Cleveland, then continuing the physical play in Saturday's semifinal.
Looking for her first-ever national championship, 25 years after taking Cheyney to the 1982 title game, Stringer watched her club take one more swing at the Vols, drawing within 50-42 on Ajavon's three with just under three minutes to go.
Tennessee -- unlike any of Rutgers' other five opponents -- hit back. Parker buried four free throws and the Scarlet Knights stayed cold from the perimeter as the clock ticked toward the Vols' first national title since 1998.
Despite the early struggles from the floor, Tennessee never trailed by more than two points in the first half and took the lead for good on Alberta Auguste's two free throws with about 9:30 remaining.
The Vols lead 29-18 after 20 minutes.
Tuesday, April 03, 2007
Musings from Opening day
By John Gottlieb
The Phanatic Magazine
Thanks to ESPN, YES Network, and TBS I need a break after watching six baseball games on the first day of the season. One down, 161 to go. It's nice to see false hope and optimism abound from so many teams.
Is it me or does Adam Dunn hit two homers every year on Opening Day? You'd think that pitchers like Carlos Zambrano would know to be a little more crafty than fastballs to a dead-fastball hitter. Dunn has three Opening Day homers off Zambrano alone. It'll take a month, and 10 Dunn homers, before the rest of baseball starts killing him with stuff out of the zone.
How impatient are Yankee fans? A-Rod gets cheered when he was announced, but boots a pop-up and strikes out in the first and gets booed each time. Give the guy a break. I'm all for booing A-Rod, but can you wait a month. However, he was the life of the party with a two-run shot in the eighth. He finished 2-for-5 with two runs, two RBI, and a stolen base. All is good in the Bronx with Rodriguez...until Wednesday.
This is going to be another long season for Brad Lidge.
Maybe the Royals weren't so crazy after all in giving Gil Meche $55 million. If he could just pitch everyday Kansas City may win the AL Central. Who even knew that that many people still cared about the Royals? Kauffman Stadium was packed. Too bad the Royals will go back to drawing 15,000 a game by next week.
Johan Santana may never lose at home ever again.
Ben Sheets threw a complete game for the upstart Brewers. Don't get used to that. Milwaukee's playoff hopes rest on his all too fragile arm.
It looks like Felix the Cat is ready to move past his sophomore slump. He very well could be the lone bright spot for the Mariners, who have a franchise-high $112 million payroll. He threw eight innings, striking out 12 with four hits and no runs. That's the way to start a season.
Then there's Jose Contreras. That's not the pitcher we're used to seeing in Chicago. He couldn't even record an out in the second inning. He gave up eight runs -- seven earned -- in just 48 pitches.
The Tribe faithful are already chanting M-V-P when Grady Sizemore comes to the plate.
If the Braves' offseason bullpen acquisitions can stay healthy then they'll surpass the Phillies and stick with the Mets for the whole campaign. It appears that Jimmy Rollins isn't the only shortstop that can hit in that bandbox.
The countdown is on for Craig Biggio (69 away from 3,000 hits), Tom Glavine (nine wins away from 300), and Barry Bonds, who'll take his whacks at Jake Peavy today to pull closer to Hammerin' Hank in the season opener for he Giants and Padres. He needs 22 long balls to hold the most sacred record in all of sports.
Never have more than two players joined the 500-homer club in one season. This year could bring five new members. While Frank Thomas (487), Jim Thome (472), Manny Ramirez (470) and Alex Rodriguez are just about in, Gary Sheffield (455) will be on the outside looking in.
Nobody cares that Sammy Sosa (588) is on the doorstep of 600, but a fantastic season from Griffey Junior (563) could join him with elite company.
Juan Pierre and Luis Gonzalez combined to go 0-for-7 in their first contest with the Dodgers, but Adam LaRoche was 0-for-5 with the golden sombrero in his debut for the Pirates. Ouch!
Nobody was better then Meche in the first outing with his new team. He lasted 7 1/3 innings, allowing six hits, one run, a walk, and six strikeouts. Former Red Sox outfielder Trot Nixon was also impressive in his debut with Cleveland, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored and a walk.
The greatest sports day of the year has now come and gone, and we've got six months of baseball to look forward to. There is no better month in sports than April. College basketball is now done, thankfully the NHL and NBA aren't too far behind, and a tradition unlike any other is about to begin (why don't we just give the Green Jacket to Tiger). It only gets better from here.
The Phanatic Magazine
Thanks to ESPN, YES Network, and TBS I need a break after watching six baseball games on the first day of the season. One down, 161 to go. It's nice to see false hope and optimism abound from so many teams.
Is it me or does Adam Dunn hit two homers every year on Opening Day? You'd think that pitchers like Carlos Zambrano would know to be a little more crafty than fastballs to a dead-fastball hitter. Dunn has three Opening Day homers off Zambrano alone. It'll take a month, and 10 Dunn homers, before the rest of baseball starts killing him with stuff out of the zone.
How impatient are Yankee fans? A-Rod gets cheered when he was announced, but boots a pop-up and strikes out in the first and gets booed each time. Give the guy a break. I'm all for booing A-Rod, but can you wait a month. However, he was the life of the party with a two-run shot in the eighth. He finished 2-for-5 with two runs, two RBI, and a stolen base. All is good in the Bronx with Rodriguez...until Wednesday. This is going to be another long season for Brad Lidge.
Maybe the Royals weren't so crazy after all in giving Gil Meche $55 million. If he could just pitch everyday Kansas City may win the AL Central. Who even knew that that many people still cared about the Royals? Kauffman Stadium was packed. Too bad the Royals will go back to drawing 15,000 a game by next week.
Johan Santana may never lose at home ever again.
Ben Sheets threw a complete game for the upstart Brewers. Don't get used to that. Milwaukee's playoff hopes rest on his all too fragile arm.
It looks like Felix the Cat is ready to move past his sophomore slump. He very well could be the lone bright spot for the Mariners, who have a franchise-high $112 million payroll. He threw eight innings, striking out 12 with four hits and no runs. That's the way to start a season.
Then there's Jose Contreras. That's not the pitcher we're used to seeing in Chicago. He couldn't even record an out in the second inning. He gave up eight runs -- seven earned -- in just 48 pitches.
The Tribe faithful are already chanting M-V-P when Grady Sizemore comes to the plate.
If the Braves' offseason bullpen acquisitions can stay healthy then they'll surpass the Phillies and stick with the Mets for the whole campaign. It appears that Jimmy Rollins isn't the only shortstop that can hit in that bandbox.The countdown is on for Craig Biggio (69 away from 3,000 hits), Tom Glavine (nine wins away from 300), and Barry Bonds, who'll take his whacks at Jake Peavy today to pull closer to Hammerin' Hank in the season opener for he Giants and Padres. He needs 22 long balls to hold the most sacred record in all of sports.
Never have more than two players joined the 500-homer club in one season. This year could bring five new members. While Frank Thomas (487), Jim Thome (472), Manny Ramirez (470) and Alex Rodriguez are just about in, Gary Sheffield (455) will be on the outside looking in.
Nobody cares that Sammy Sosa (588) is on the doorstep of 600, but a fantastic season from Griffey Junior (563) could join him with elite company.
Juan Pierre and Luis Gonzalez combined to go 0-for-7 in their first contest with the Dodgers, but Adam LaRoche was 0-for-5 with the golden sombrero in his debut for the Pirates. Ouch!
Nobody was better then Meche in the first outing with his new team. He lasted 7 1/3 innings, allowing six hits, one run, a walk, and six strikeouts. Former Red Sox outfielder Trot Nixon was also impressive in his debut with Cleveland, going 3-for-4 with three runs scored and a walk.
The greatest sports day of the year has now come and gone, and we've got six months of baseball to look forward to. There is no better month in sports than April. College basketball is now done, thankfully the NHL and NBA aren't too far behind, and a tradition unlike any other is about to begin (why don't we just give the Green Jacket to Tiger). It only gets better from here.
Sixers bring back F Henderson
By John McMullen
The Phanatic Magazine
The Philadelphia 76ers re-signed forward Alan Henderson to a contract for the remainder of the season on Tuesday. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Henderson started the 2006-07 season with the Sixers, averaging 3.5 points and 3.1 rebounds in 34 games (five starts) before being sent to Utah in late February.
The Sixers traded the 12-year NBA veteran for the rights to exchange second round draft picks in the 2007 NBA Draft. In addition the Jazz received cash considerations from the Sixers. Utah then requested waivers on Henderson on March 2.
Henderson has averaged 7.9 points and five rebounds in 648 career games (220 starts) while playing with Atlanta (1995-2004), Dallas (2004-05), Cleveland (2005-06) and Philadelphia (2006-07).
The Phanatic Magazine
The Philadelphia 76ers re-signed forward Alan Henderson to a contract for the remainder of the season on Tuesday. Per team policy, terms of the contract were not disclosed.
Henderson started the 2006-07 season with the Sixers, averaging 3.5 points and 3.1 rebounds in 34 games (five starts) before being sent to Utah in late February.
The Sixers traded the 12-year NBA veteran for the rights to exchange second round draft picks in the 2007 NBA Draft. In addition the Jazz received cash considerations from the Sixers. Utah then requested waivers on Henderson on March 2.
Henderson has averaged 7.9 points and five rebounds in 648 career games (220 starts) while playing with Atlanta (1995-2004), Dallas (2004-05), Cleveland (2005-06) and Philadelphia (2006-07).
A Conspiracy of Hope
By Bob Herpen
The Phanatic Magazine
From the first uttering of that magical phrase “pitchers and catchers report,” to the nervous anticipation that accompanies the hours between the last exhibition game and the first pitch of a new season, a torrent of emotions come to the surface regarding our red pinstriped diamond dwellers.
But what is it that allows a Philadelphia baseball fan to simultaneously renew hope each April for a season worthy of a pennant, yet so willingly also profess doom at the very first misstep the club makes? How can the harbinger of renewal and rebirth also become twisted into a series of murky omens?
Perhaps the syndrome is hardwired into our collective conscious, as baseball becomes a part of our lives from the very start.
For our grandfathers, it was the lure of the “knothole” at the old Baker Bowl at Broad and Huntingdon, where young fans of the Chuck Klein era could grab a spot in the old wooden fence beyond the outfield bleachers and sneak a peek for a nickel. Then, fifty years later, they spend inordinate amounts of time with their male grandchildren reminiscing about fighting for that last knot even though it meant you were guaranteed to see the Phils lose, and lose badly.
There would be no mention of specific names of the home players from that time; only vague recollections of a never-ending series of “bums” on the mound, at the plate, and in the dugout. You’d hear great tales of the Cardinals’ Gas House Gang, the Waner brothers of Pittsburgh, Johnny Mize and Ralph Kiner’s Herculean blasts, and almost nothing of the home club except certain epithets surrounding the fact that at least it didn’t cost much to see some “expletive deleted” baseball during the Depression and into World War II.
For our fathers, it was the joy of a special trip Uptown or into North Philadelphia to see the “Fightins” at beautiful Connie Mack Stadium. During the '50s and '60s there was an endless parade of has-beens (Frank Howard, Elmer Valo, Lew Burdette), never-weres (Bo Belinsky) future Hall-of-Famers (Fergie Jenkins) and controversial figures (Richie/Dick Allen), some of whom - like Robin Roberts, Richie Ashburn and Jim Bunning - actually stayed with the team for a number of years and became beloved names in franchise lore.
That generation passed down to its sons and daughters the clear memories of the emerald grass, the fancy architecture of the building itself, and the fact that you could never trust the neighborhood – and maybe couldn’t even trust someone to watch your car for you while you spent endless Sundays watching doubleheaders that passed in the blink of an eye. Of course, there also was the bottomless heartache of September 1964, which still reduces men about to become grandfathers to vacant stares, awkward silences and furtive curses. But it still was mentioned with an air of pleasant nostalgia all the same.
In these times, the endless stream of newspapers, ESPN, and sports radio does its thing like a sledgehammer to our frontal lobes. Fills our heads in the course of a single day with multiple separate and distinct opinions that all can convince you in moments of weakness that they are all either simultaneously true or forever diametrically opposed. The hosts, talking heads and writers play with our emotions under the guise of being liaisons between team and fan base, effectively splitting us into two camps: those who undyingly believe that each successive year is “The Year,” and those who stubbornly (and perhaps wisely) refuse to believe that every new year is nothing more than different interchangeable parts which inevitably lead to the same conclusion.
The payoff for our grandfathers finally came with the Whiz Kids’ 1950 National League pennant. From 1918 to 1950, the Phillies only made it above the .500 mark three times, two of those in ’49 and the following season, a four-game loss to the Yankees. Our fathers only had to wait a little more than a decade to erase the memory of that infamous Collapse, as the combined efforts of Danny Ozark, Dallas Green and Paul Owens coaxed six division crowns, two World Series appearances, and one title between 1976 and 1983.
Sadly, I think the payoff for our generation has already come – that magical ride called the 1993 season – which still ended in horror as only one other World Series previously had concluded. And what of today’s youth, weaned on the Terry Francona years, and constantly sent the confusing signals that the Phillies are still a source of never ending misery despite five winning seasons since 2001? They must view 1993 in the same wondrous vein that we think of the decade of the 70’s and 1980.
As William Shakespeare once wrote, “The fault, dear Brutus, lies not within our stars, but within ourselves.”
Our older relatives, peers and many media mavens have poisoned the well for decades by harping on the one World Series title in 125 years, the dark times between the world wars, 1964, and countless other lost weekends from 1984 until now. We believed it all, wanting to bond with everyone around us, even if it was in commiseration. We are also to blame in the switching of allegiances or in becoming embittered under the constant battering the franchise takes over the airwaves just because five 80-plus win seasons in the last six failed to produce one single playoff berth or division title.
Take a look back in history. Save for the lost years of the '20s, '30s and '40s, the Phillies have not been so horrible. They were an average team from the end of the 19th century until the end of World War I. Those so-called “second-division” teams your father and uncle complained about? Between 1951 and 1968, Philadelphia sported 10 years of .500 or better baseball, and enjoyed six consecutive years (1962-68) nowhere near the National League cellar. Winning seasons every year from 1975 to 1983. Another small period of wandering in baseball’s wilderness came along from 1985 to 2000 (1993 excepted), but there has been a renaissance of sorts from Larry Bowa’s 2001 hiring until now.
Hope is a tricky thing, and a dangerous seed to plant in the minds of future generations. Whether it is the false hope of the cynics who believe the Phillies will always succeed at failing, or those who unfailingly cling to the hope that each April will be the one to chase away the demons of seasons past.
All I’m asking now is for fans to plow a road right between the two extremes, and carve out a path where young and old can simply share memories and experience, and spend some time praising players and recalling games that punctuated the disappointment. Let the talk of good guys like Johnny Callison and Rico Brogna mingle with the derision of Steve Jeltz and Chad Ogea.
This is only baseball's beginning. There shouldn’t be room enough for either camp to make their claim. Let’s just enjoy the game itself for what it is.
The Phanatic Magazine
From the first uttering of that magical phrase “pitchers and catchers report,” to the nervous anticipation that accompanies the hours between the last exhibition game and the first pitch of a new season, a torrent of emotions come to the surface regarding our red pinstriped diamond dwellers.
But what is it that allows a Philadelphia baseball fan to simultaneously renew hope each April for a season worthy of a pennant, yet so willingly also profess doom at the very first misstep the club makes? How can the harbinger of renewal and rebirth also become twisted into a series of murky omens?
Perhaps the syndrome is hardwired into our collective conscious, as baseball becomes a part of our lives from the very start.
For our grandfathers, it was the lure of the “knothole” at the old Baker Bowl at Broad and Huntingdon, where young fans of the Chuck Klein era could grab a spot in the old wooden fence beyond the outfield bleachers and sneak a peek for a nickel. Then, fifty years later, they spend inordinate amounts of time with their male grandchildren reminiscing about fighting for that last knot even though it meant you were guaranteed to see the Phils lose, and lose badly.
There would be no mention of specific names of the home players from that time; only vague recollections of a never-ending series of “bums” on the mound, at the plate, and in the dugout. You’d hear great tales of the Cardinals’ Gas House Gang, the Waner brothers of Pittsburgh, Johnny Mize and Ralph Kiner’s Herculean blasts, and almost nothing of the home club except certain epithets surrounding the fact that at least it didn’t cost much to see some “expletive deleted” baseball during the Depression and into World War II.
For our fathers, it was the joy of a special trip Uptown or into North Philadelphia to see the “Fightins” at beautiful Connie Mack Stadium. During the '50s and '60s there was an endless parade of has-beens (Frank Howard, Elmer Valo, Lew Burdette), never-weres (Bo Belinsky) future Hall-of-Famers (Fergie Jenkins) and controversial figures (Richie/Dick Allen), some of whom - like Robin Roberts, Richie Ashburn and Jim Bunning - actually stayed with the team for a number of years and became beloved names in franchise lore.
That generation passed down to its sons and daughters the clear memories of the emerald grass, the fancy architecture of the building itself, and the fact that you could never trust the neighborhood – and maybe couldn’t even trust someone to watch your car for you while you spent endless Sundays watching doubleheaders that passed in the blink of an eye. Of course, there also was the bottomless heartache of September 1964, which still reduces men about to become grandfathers to vacant stares, awkward silences and furtive curses. But it still was mentioned with an air of pleasant nostalgia all the same.
In these times, the endless stream of newspapers, ESPN, and sports radio does its thing like a sledgehammer to our frontal lobes. Fills our heads in the course of a single day with multiple separate and distinct opinions that all can convince you in moments of weakness that they are all either simultaneously true or forever diametrically opposed. The hosts, talking heads and writers play with our emotions under the guise of being liaisons between team and fan base, effectively splitting us into two camps: those who undyingly believe that each successive year is “The Year,” and those who stubbornly (and perhaps wisely) refuse to believe that every new year is nothing more than different interchangeable parts which inevitably lead to the same conclusion.
The payoff for our grandfathers finally came with the Whiz Kids’ 1950 National League pennant. From 1918 to 1950, the Phillies only made it above the .500 mark three times, two of those in ’49 and the following season, a four-game loss to the Yankees. Our fathers only had to wait a little more than a decade to erase the memory of that infamous Collapse, as the combined efforts of Danny Ozark, Dallas Green and Paul Owens coaxed six division crowns, two World Series appearances, and one title between 1976 and 1983.
Sadly, I think the payoff for our generation has already come – that magical ride called the 1993 season – which still ended in horror as only one other World Series previously had concluded. And what of today’s youth, weaned on the Terry Francona years, and constantly sent the confusing signals that the Phillies are still a source of never ending misery despite five winning seasons since 2001? They must view 1993 in the same wondrous vein that we think of the decade of the 70’s and 1980.
As William Shakespeare once wrote, “The fault, dear Brutus, lies not within our stars, but within ourselves.”
Our older relatives, peers and many media mavens have poisoned the well for decades by harping on the one World Series title in 125 years, the dark times between the world wars, 1964, and countless other lost weekends from 1984 until now. We believed it all, wanting to bond with everyone around us, even if it was in commiseration. We are also to blame in the switching of allegiances or in becoming embittered under the constant battering the franchise takes over the airwaves just because five 80-plus win seasons in the last six failed to produce one single playoff berth or division title.
Take a look back in history. Save for the lost years of the '20s, '30s and '40s, the Phillies have not been so horrible. They were an average team from the end of the 19th century until the end of World War I. Those so-called “second-division” teams your father and uncle complained about? Between 1951 and 1968, Philadelphia sported 10 years of .500 or better baseball, and enjoyed six consecutive years (1962-68) nowhere near the National League cellar. Winning seasons every year from 1975 to 1983. Another small period of wandering in baseball’s wilderness came along from 1985 to 2000 (1993 excepted), but there has been a renaissance of sorts from Larry Bowa’s 2001 hiring until now.
Hope is a tricky thing, and a dangerous seed to plant in the minds of future generations. Whether it is the false hope of the cynics who believe the Phillies will always succeed at failing, or those who unfailingly cling to the hope that each April will be the one to chase away the demons of seasons past.
All I’m asking now is for fans to plow a road right between the two extremes, and carve out a path where young and old can simply share memories and experience, and spend some time praising players and recalling games that punctuated the disappointment. Let the talk of good guys like Johnny Callison and Rico Brogna mingle with the derision of Steve Jeltz and Chad Ogea.
This is only baseball's beginning. There shouldn’t be room enough for either camp to make their claim. Let’s just enjoy the game itself for what it is.
Title Game Ramblings
By Greg Wiley
The Phanatic Magazine
For this week's version of ramblings, I figured I give you guys my take of the NCAA championship game between Florida and Ohio State as it happens.
So, here we go...
9:10 p.m. - After suffering through a couple crappy promotional spots, we get to hear Billy Donovan's pre-game pep talk to his team. Needless to say, I'm disappointed to not hear him tell his troops he is leaving for Kentucky. Instead, he says something about a horse race and tell us this game is bigger than any individual.
9:13 p.m. - Does Clark Kellogg have to yell?
9:17 p.m. - I think to myself, Billy Packer is a horse's ass.
9:20ish p.m. - Jim Nantz gives us the starting lineups, going one team at a time. What happened to the alternating lineup announcements? I liked when the players met at midcourt to shake hands. I always wanted a fight to break out.
9:26 p.m. - The game is only 45 seconds in and I've heard Joakim Noah's name about five times.
9:27 p.m. - At the 18:40 mark, Packer says "ticky-tack foul." I laugh.
9:30 p.m. - I hear Packer pronounce Donovan's name Dunnovin. I wonder if that's because we "dunno" where he will coach next year.
9:32 p.m. - Commercial break so I give the broadcast about 20 percent of my attention while I check my fantasy baseball lineup.
9:33 p.m. - I realize my team stinks. First day of baseball and I'm already stressing out. It's going to be a long season.
9:36 p.m. - Watching Noah's free throw form, I remember why I dislike him. Nothing about his game looks good, yet everyone loves him.
9:39 p.m. - At the 12:55 mark, did I just see Lee Humphrey miss a three-pointer?
9:44 p.m. - Going to commercial break at the 10:51 mark, I realize this could be a good game if not for the constant blabber by Packer.
9:47 p.m. - Greg Oden just gives Corey Brewer a facial on a block.
9:49 p.m. - At the 9:19 mark, Oden gets his first foul and Nantz takes the opportunity to go into his first Masters promo. He whispers like he's on the18th green on Sunday.
9:52 p.m. - At the 7:59 mark, Packer loses his first bet. Thinking the ball went out of bounds on Noah, the officials give the ball to the Gators.
9:54 p.m. - It's a commercial...I'm thinking I'm glad I'm not Brett Myers' wife tonight. If today was any indicator, the Phillies are going to have a long season and so might Mrs. Myers.
10:00 p.m. - Taurean Green hits a 3-pointer to put the Gators up by 11, 33-22, and I fart so bad I need to leave my chair for a few minutes. I get a soda, come back and my seat still stinks.
10:10ish p.m. - Halftime arrives. I tune into ESPN, only to find figure skating. I quickly tune to ESPN2 for baseball and a chance to regain my manhood.
10:19 p.m. - I see a great catch by Gary Matthews Jr. to end the first inning for the Angels. Somebody should make him pee in a cup when he gets to the dugout.
10:22 p.m. - Still watching the Angels-Rangers game, Texas starter Kevin Millwood is four pitches into his start and is already sweating like a pig.
10:23 p.m. - Bored. I tune back to CBS just in time for the Dick Enberg's annual piece reflecting on the tournament. I start to dose off.
10:38 p.m. - With 15:50 left, Humphrey hits a 3-pointer to extend the lead back to11 points and I start to accept that the Buckeyes don't have the firepower to stay with the Gators.
10:57 p.m. - After Al Horford's dunk with 9:55 left puts the Gators up 58-46, I declare: "This game's over."
"Ah, the Wiley hex," someone in the room replies. "I needed that. I have $350 riding on OSU."
11:00 p.m. - Chris Richard's three-point play with 8:59 left ends an 8-1 run, putting the Gators ahead 61-47. "Sorry, dude. You're out that money."
11:13 p.m. - Oden hits two free throws to draw OSU back within six, 66-60. "The Wiley hex in full effect," I hear.
Next possession Green hits a 3-pointer for the Gators to start the game-clinching run. "Hex this!"
11:24 p.m. - I see a replay of Joakim's dad, tennis great Yannick, celebrating in slow motion. Boy, I hate the French -- and Florida.
11:30 p.m. - I puke at the final buzzer.
11:35 p.m. - I get my best laugh of the night when Noah goes on a crazy ghetto rant, saying he's going to party like never before only to have to be stopped midway through by a clearly embarrassed Donovan, who had to pat Noah on the chest to get him to shut up.
See you guys next week.
Let's hear your thoughts. Email Greg at gwiley@phanaticmag.com
The Phanatic Magazine
For this week's version of ramblings, I figured I give you guys my take of the NCAA championship game between Florida and Ohio State as it happens.
So, here we go...
9:10 p.m. - After suffering through a couple crappy promotional spots, we get to hear Billy Donovan's pre-game pep talk to his team. Needless to say, I'm disappointed to not hear him tell his troops he is leaving for Kentucky. Instead, he says something about a horse race and tell us this game is bigger than any individual.
9:13 p.m. - Does Clark Kellogg have to yell?
9:17 p.m. - I think to myself, Billy Packer is a horse's ass.
9:20ish p.m. - Jim Nantz gives us the starting lineups, going one team at a time. What happened to the alternating lineup announcements? I liked when the players met at midcourt to shake hands. I always wanted a fight to break out.
9:26 p.m. - The game is only 45 seconds in and I've heard Joakim Noah's name about five times.
9:27 p.m. - At the 18:40 mark, Packer says "ticky-tack foul." I laugh.
9:30 p.m. - I hear Packer pronounce Donovan's name Dunnovin. I wonder if that's because we "dunno" where he will coach next year.
9:32 p.m. - Commercial break so I give the broadcast about 20 percent of my attention while I check my fantasy baseball lineup.
9:33 p.m. - I realize my team stinks. First day of baseball and I'm already stressing out. It's going to be a long season.
9:36 p.m. - Watching Noah's free throw form, I remember why I dislike him. Nothing about his game looks good, yet everyone loves him.
9:39 p.m. - At the 12:55 mark, did I just see Lee Humphrey miss a three-pointer?
9:44 p.m. - Going to commercial break at the 10:51 mark, I realize this could be a good game if not for the constant blabber by Packer.
9:47 p.m. - Greg Oden just gives Corey Brewer a facial on a block.
9:49 p.m. - At the 9:19 mark, Oden gets his first foul and Nantz takes the opportunity to go into his first Masters promo. He whispers like he's on the18th green on Sunday.
9:52 p.m. - At the 7:59 mark, Packer loses his first bet. Thinking the ball went out of bounds on Noah, the officials give the ball to the Gators.
9:54 p.m. - It's a commercial...I'm thinking I'm glad I'm not Brett Myers' wife tonight. If today was any indicator, the Phillies are going to have a long season and so might Mrs. Myers.
10:00 p.m. - Taurean Green hits a 3-pointer to put the Gators up by 11, 33-22, and I fart so bad I need to leave my chair for a few minutes. I get a soda, come back and my seat still stinks.
10:10ish p.m. - Halftime arrives. I tune into ESPN, only to find figure skating. I quickly tune to ESPN2 for baseball and a chance to regain my manhood.
10:19 p.m. - I see a great catch by Gary Matthews Jr. to end the first inning for the Angels. Somebody should make him pee in a cup when he gets to the dugout.
10:22 p.m. - Still watching the Angels-Rangers game, Texas starter Kevin Millwood is four pitches into his start and is already sweating like a pig.
10:23 p.m. - Bored. I tune back to CBS just in time for the Dick Enberg's annual piece reflecting on the tournament. I start to dose off.
10:38 p.m. - With 15:50 left, Humphrey hits a 3-pointer to extend the lead back to11 points and I start to accept that the Buckeyes don't have the firepower to stay with the Gators.
10:57 p.m. - After Al Horford's dunk with 9:55 left puts the Gators up 58-46, I declare: "This game's over."
"Ah, the Wiley hex," someone in the room replies. "I needed that. I have $350 riding on OSU."
11:00 p.m. - Chris Richard's three-point play with 8:59 left ends an 8-1 run, putting the Gators ahead 61-47. "Sorry, dude. You're out that money."
11:13 p.m. - Oden hits two free throws to draw OSU back within six, 66-60. "The Wiley hex in full effect," I hear.
Next possession Green hits a 3-pointer for the Gators to start the game-clinching run. "Hex this!"
11:24 p.m. - I see a replay of Joakim's dad, tennis great Yannick, celebrating in slow motion. Boy, I hate the French -- and Florida.
11:30 p.m. - I puke at the final buzzer.
11:35 p.m. - I get my best laugh of the night when Noah goes on a crazy ghetto rant, saying he's going to party like never before only to have to be stopped midway through by a clearly embarrassed Donovan, who had to pat Noah on the chest to get him to shut up.
See you guys next week.
Let's hear your thoughts. Email Greg at gwiley@phanaticmag.com
Doss back on Eagles radar?
By John McMullen
The Phanatic Magazine
Safety Mike Doss will be in Minneapolis on Tuesday to visit with the Vikings but the Eagles are still in the hunt to to acquire his services.
The Phanatic Magazine
Safety Mike Doss will be in Minneapolis on Tuesday to visit with the Vikings but the Eagles are still in the hunt to to acquire his services.
Doss already visited the Birds this offseason and rumors circulated he was close to a deal but nothing was ever signed. He has since hired a new agent -- Drew Rosenhaus -- and is now scheduled to meet the Eagles again later this week.
Although the Minnesota offense is a disaster area under former Eagles offensive coordinator Brad Childress, the defense is solid. The Vikings already have Darren Sharper, Dwight Smith, Tank Williams and Greg Blue under contract at safety so Minneapolis doesn't seem like a good fit for Doss, leaving the door open for the Birds.
Doss has tallied seven interceptions in four seasons with the Indianapolis Colts but missed the final nine games of last season because of a torn ACL.
Monday, April 02, 2007
Gator-raid - Florida wins second straight title
By Greg Wiley
The Phanatic Magazine
Al Horford led a balanced attack, scoring 18 points and grabbing 12 rebounds, as the Florida Gators repeated as national champions with an 84-75 win over Ohio State in the title game of the NCAA Tournament.
Taurean Green added 16 points and six assists, and Lee Humphrey scored 14 for the Gators (35-5), who became the first back-to-back national champions since Duke accomplished the feat from 1991-92. Corey Brewer tallied 13 points and eight rebounds for Florida, which used an 11-3 run down the stretch to end its season with 10 straight wins.
"I'm so proud of my guys," said Florida head coach Billy Donovan, who is rumored to be offered the job Kentucky any day now. "I think this team should go down as on the best teams in college basketball history. Not as the most talented, and not on style points. But because they encompassed what the word 'team' means. They did it the first year with no expectations, then they did it again with all the expectations."
Greg Oden had 25 points, 12 rebounds and four blocks to lead the Buckeyes (35-4), who suffered the same fate as its football program -- a loss in the championship game to Florida.
Mike Conley Jr. added 20 points, scoring 14 in the second half, for Ohio State, which failed to capture its first national title since 1960 and had a 22-game winning streak come to an end. Ron Lewis had 12 points, as the Buckeyes were within striking distance for most of the game but could never get over the hump.
Oden carried the Buckeyes all night and his two free throws with 5:03 left drew his club within 66-60. However, like they did all night, the Gators had an answer. The next time down the floor Green hit a three-pointer to extend the lead to nine points and start an 11-3 run that secured the game for the Gators. A pair of Joakim Noah free throws with 1:33 ended the burst for a 77-63 cushion.
"This game came down to making plays," said Ohio State head coach Thad Matta. "A couple of plays (Florida) made down the stretch were key. We got it to six. We just couldn't overcome it."
Green's trey was his first bucket of the second half. He had scored 11 first- half points. Noah ended with just eight points as he played in foul trouble all night.
"I feel like we've accomplished something special," said Noah. "So many people doubted us, but we're in the books now."
Ohio State had trouble with its perimeter game, hitting only 4-of-23 three- pointers for the game compared to Florida's 10-of-18 shooting from beyond the arc. The Buckeyes also hit only 11-of-17 free throws, while the Gators hit 22- of-25.
"Greg really did a tremendous job of scoring the ball, finishing the ball," said Matta of Oden. "They chose to go with single coverage. When teams do that...we need to make a couple more shots from the outside. It just didn't happen for us."
Ohio State held an early 9-5 lead, but the Gators scored 18 of the next 24 points to take the lead for good. A pair of Green free throws with 12:16 left put Florida in front and Horford later ended the surge with a layup for a 23-15 cushion with 7:41 on the clock.
Ivan Harris managed to draw the Buckeyes within 24-22 with a three-pointer at the 5:39 mark, but three straight jumpers from beyond the arc for the Gators gave the club an 11-point lead, 33-22. Humphrey, Brewer and Green all hit threes for the Gators, who used that run to cruise into halftime with a 40-29 lead.
Ohio State hung around for most of the second half, drawing within 53-46 on a Conley layup with 11:06 left, but the Gators always seemed to have an answer and this time was no different. A Horford dunk started an 8-1 run that helped Florida regain its double-digit lead. Chris Richard's three-point play with 8:59 left ended the surge, giving the Gators their largest lead to that points, 61-47.
***Photo courtesy of The Associated Press***Phils Fall in Season Opener
By Angelo Saggiomo
Edgar Renteria's two-run homer in the 10th inning lifted Atlanta over Philadelphia, 5-3, in the 2007 season opener for both clubs at Citizens Bank Park.
Renteria, who finished 2-for-5 with three runs batted in, also tied the game in the eighth. With the Braves down 3-2, Renteria drove a two-out, 0-2 fastball from Brett Myers off the brick wall in center.
Brian McCann went 3-for-4, including a two-run homer, for the Braves, who had their streak of 14 consecutive division titles ended last season and finished third in the NL East with a 79-83 record. John Smoltz started on the mound and yielded three runs on eight hits while striking out seven and walking one in six innings.
Bob Wickman (1-0) earned the win by pitching a scoreless ninth and Chad Paronto notched his first save of the season.
Jimmy Rollins and Aaron Rowand each had two hits and one RBI for the Phillies, who finished last season 85-77, good for second place in the division, and three games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the wild card. Reigning NL MVP Ryan Howard ended 2-for-4 with a walk, but struck out twice.
Myers pitched 7 2/3 innings, scattering three runs on four hits with nine strikeouts and a pair of walks. Ryan Madson (0-1), who gave up Renteria's second homer, suffered the loss.
It was a pitching duel for the first three innings, but Atlanta struck first in the fourth.
Chipper Jones started things with a leadoff walk on four pitches, and after Andruw Jones popped out, McCann lined the first pitch he saw over the right field wall for a 2-0 lead.
Philadelphia did, however, cut its deficit to one in the fifth when Rollins crushed a two-out solo home run, and in the sixth, the Phillies scored twice to take a 3-2 edge.
With two outs, Wes Helms smacked an RBI double to deep center to plate Pat Burrell, who reached base with a single. Rowand followed with a pop up, which was ruled a single after the ball tipped off of second baseman Kelly Johnson's glove, allowing Helms to touch home.
Philadelphia had a chance for more in the seventh, but with runners at second and third and no outs, Shane Victorino and Howard struck out, and Chase Utley grounded out to shortstop.
Game Notes
Both teams resume their series on Wednesday...The Phillies played extra innings for the 12th time on Opening Day and the first time since 2001...Myers' nine strikeouts was the most Opening Day K's since 1998 when Curt Schilling recorded nine as well...Renteria notched his sixth-career multi-homer game...Rollins' home run came on his 4,000th at bat...Attendance was 44,742.
Edgar Renteria's two-run homer in the 10th inning lifted Atlanta over Philadelphia, 5-3, in the 2007 season opener for both clubs at Citizens Bank Park.
Renteria, who finished 2-for-5 with three runs batted in, also tied the game in the eighth. With the Braves down 3-2, Renteria drove a two-out, 0-2 fastball from Brett Myers off the brick wall in center.
Brian McCann went 3-for-4, including a two-run homer, for the Braves, who had their streak of 14 consecutive division titles ended last season and finished third in the NL East with a 79-83 record. John Smoltz started on the mound and yielded three runs on eight hits while striking out seven and walking one in six innings.
Bob Wickman (1-0) earned the win by pitching a scoreless ninth and Chad Paronto notched his first save of the season.
Jimmy Rollins and Aaron Rowand each had two hits and one RBI for the Phillies, who finished last season 85-77, good for second place in the division, and three games behind the Los Angeles Dodgers for the wild card. Reigning NL MVP Ryan Howard ended 2-for-4 with a walk, but struck out twice.
Myers pitched 7 2/3 innings, scattering three runs on four hits with nine strikeouts and a pair of walks. Ryan Madson (0-1), who gave up Renteria's second homer, suffered the loss.
It was a pitching duel for the first three innings, but Atlanta struck first in the fourth.
Chipper Jones started things with a leadoff walk on four pitches, and after Andruw Jones popped out, McCann lined the first pitch he saw over the right field wall for a 2-0 lead.
Philadelphia did, however, cut its deficit to one in the fifth when Rollins crushed a two-out solo home run, and in the sixth, the Phillies scored twice to take a 3-2 edge.
With two outs, Wes Helms smacked an RBI double to deep center to plate Pat Burrell, who reached base with a single. Rowand followed with a pop up, which was ruled a single after the ball tipped off of second baseman Kelly Johnson's glove, allowing Helms to touch home.
Philadelphia had a chance for more in the seventh, but with runners at second and third and no outs, Shane Victorino and Howard struck out, and Chase Utley grounded out to shortstop.
Game Notes
Both teams resume their series on Wednesday...The Phillies played extra innings for the 12th time on Opening Day and the first time since 2001...Myers' nine strikeouts was the most Opening Day K's since 1998 when Curt Schilling recorded nine as well...Renteria notched his sixth-career multi-homer game...Rollins' home run came on his 4,000th at bat...Attendance was 44,742.
Eagles preseason matchups announced
*** Courtesy of the Eagles ***
The Philadelphia Eagles today announced their 2007 preseason opponents, highlighted by a nationally televised contest at Pittsburgh on Sunday, August 26.
The Eagles will open their preseason slate in Baltimore against the Ravens, who they will face for the third straight preseason and the ninth time in the last 11 years. They will then host the Carolina Panthers for the first time ever in the preseason on the weekend of August 16-19. The Eagles and New York Jets, who have met 22 times in the preseason over the last 22 years (they played twice in 1992 and did not face each other in 2000), will close their preseason schedules at Lincoln Financial Field.
Date Opponent Time Network
August 9-11 at Baltimore TBA ETN/6ABC
August 16-18 Carolina TBA ETN/6ABC
Sunday, August 26 at Pittsburgh 8:00 pm NBC
Thursday, August 30 NY Jets TBA ETN/6ABC
Exact dates and times of the games will be announced at a later date.
The Philadelphia Eagles today announced their 2007 preseason opponents, highlighted by a nationally televised contest at Pittsburgh on Sunday, August 26.
The Eagles will open their preseason slate in Baltimore against the Ravens, who they will face for the third straight preseason and the ninth time in the last 11 years. They will then host the Carolina Panthers for the first time ever in the preseason on the weekend of August 16-19. The Eagles and New York Jets, who have met 22 times in the preseason over the last 22 years (they played twice in 1992 and did not face each other in 2000), will close their preseason schedules at Lincoln Financial Field.
Date Opponent Time Network
August 9-11 at Baltimore TBA ETN/6ABC
August 16-18 Carolina TBA ETN/6ABC
Sunday, August 26 at Pittsburgh 8:00 pm NBC
Thursday, August 30 NY Jets TBA ETN/6ABC
Exact dates and times of the games will be announced at a later date.
Ten Reasons to Be-Leery
By Jeff Glauser
The Phanatic Magazine
And now some words from your Resident Stick-In-The-Mud…
The Phanatic Magazine
And now some words from your Resident Stick-In-The-Mud…
What’s going on here? Where is all this optimism coming from? While we made the smooth transition to accepting mediocrity and ineptitude, respectively, for our Sixers and Flyers, and while others continue to battle with their Jeff Garcia Kool-Aid aftertaste in Eagle-land, something strange began to occur with fans of the losingest franchise in sport:
They began to believe.
I’m not sure exactly how this began to take hold. There was that nice little September run sans Bobby Abreu last year. There was that offseason where we…um… well, more on that later.
I find it somewhat amusing when, in years past, a team executive offered hope to the masses, we instantly shrugged him off, figuring it to be just another “Boy Cries Wolf” plea in a 124-year portfolio chock full of them.
Meanwhile, the Phils’ current architect, Pat Gillick, is known as one of the better minds in the game, a general manager of two World Series Champions and another team which set a record for most wins in a season.
Last year, Gillick told us not to expect much in 2007 as he continues to find ways to work with a roster hamstrung with bad contracts and no-trade clauses (and Ed Wade staple).
But Jeff, you say, things have changed! The players took the remark as a personal affront and have risen to the occasion. Offseason moves reflect an effort to put the team in a position to put October vacation plans on hold. And, to be frank, Gillick was essentially playing up to the natural mentality of the area’s sports fans: Confirm our negative expectations and perhaps you can pleasantly surprise us later on.
So was this just a case of crafty reverse psychology?
For the past month and change, my colleagues at The Phanatic Magazine have fueled the common fan’s hopes and kept the Kool-Aid flowing beyond the gridiron. You have been given one less than a few dozen “reasons to believe,” in the form of the elements that comprise this year’s cast of players.
Now allow me to say that these reasons can very well pan out. This is certainly not a squad - a la the late 80’s or late 90’s - that was essentially eliminated from contention by mid-April. They have a reigning MVP in our 1B, another candidate in our 2B, a sparkplug of a SS. The three of them alone will make the Phillies TiVo-worthy on a regular basis.
However, where my confusion lies – as my natural Philly-skepticism sets in – is, what makes expectations so much higher than they were a year ago at this time?
So, I present to you, the reader, 10 Reasons to Be-Leery:
1. Staff overhype.
You know that starting rotation everyone keeps touting? Well, not one of them has an career ERA below 4. That includes sixth-man-in-waiting (and former staff ace) Jon Lieber. It also happens to include offseason acquisition Freddy Garcia. For those keeping score, Garcia had a 2006 ERA closer to 5 than 4. I’m just saying…
2. Unproven entities.
Opening Day 2006 featured a former All-Star and Gold Glove recipient starting at both RF and catcher (Bobby Abreu and Mike Lieberthal, respectively) and a former NL Championship Series MVP at 3B (The juicin’ David Bell). Come Opening Day 2007, those positions will be filled by not one player who has started a full season in his career, even though two of them – 3B Wes Helms and C Rod Barajas – are on the wrong side of 30 years old. By the time Lieberthal booked his flight back home to Southern California, for many, he couldn’t have flown out of town fast enough. Regardless, we basically knew what to expect of the former all-star and Gold Glove recipient, who was actually the longest-tenured Philly athlete by the time of his departure. Can we really say we know exactly what to expect from Helms, Barajas or Shane Victorino.
3. Remember that reason we kept using why we weren’t able to get over the hump?
Or let me pose another question: How is our relief pitching looking now? How confident do we truly feel to rely on any one guy in the sixth inning and beyond? How much faith do we have in our injury-prone closer, Tom Gordon, the one creeping ever closer to both retirement and Social Security?
4. Now batting fifth and starting in left field… wait, that hasn’t changed, either. So which Pat Burrell will show up most to Citizens Bank Park this year? Burrell has witnessed so many called third strikes at inopportune times that, at times, he could be just as effective buying a ticket as a spectator. And, remember, it looks as if he’s being counted on to be the protection for our reigning MVP.
5. And yeah, Howard’s great… but 2006 great?
Speaking of, is anyone outside of Kool-Aid Land actually betting on Ryan Howard putting up similar numbers to his insane 2006? First, pitchers will certainly be giving him the Barry Bonds Treatment much more frequently (especially considering who’s on deck – see Previous Reason). Secondly, history dictates that, unless your name starts with “George Herman” and ends with “Ruth,” or unless it’s the past decade and you’re annually under suspicion for using steroids (of which Howard is neither), it is not wise to bank on consecutive 58-homer seasons.
6. Uncle Charlie still writes out the lineup cards.
Don’t know about you, but every time I see Charlie Manuel interviewed on television, I think one of two things: Drunken Hillbilly, or President of the United States of America. Either way, I don’t have much faith in his abilities, other than to keep a happy, loose clubhouse. People: He batted Howard 7th last year as late as May!
7. Sure, it’s only Spring Training, but…
Was there anything done in Clearwater this year that made you feel any better about this club as it made its way back north? Considering the slow start out of the gate in recent Aprils (which many have laid blame to its ultimate failure to reach the playoffs), it would have been nice to have seen some semblance of momentum to build off of.
8. Whatever you do, starters… don’t get hurt!
Anyone fearing the bench players this season? Abraham Nunez – as good a defensive player as he may be – had to struggle mightily just to get over the Mendoza Line last year. Jayson’s “Werth” has dropped exponentially in recent years. And the three others have a handful of major league at bats between them and may just be happy to be here. Anyone missing that veteran presence of Jeff Conine?
9. Meet the Mets... Beat the Mets?
The NL East gave us a new division champ not named the Braves for the first time since, well, the Phillies. With a deep veteran presence and deep pockets in the front office, the Mets will not be so quick to relent.
10. 1993 is still 1993.
Which is the last year the Phillies made the playoffs. Which has been followed by a few other years of high expectations. But which is still 14 years ago, and certainly far in the rearview mirror.
But… that was a year where many did not expect much. It turned out to be a year to remember. 14 years from now, the hope is that 2007 proves similar results… and that the natural Philly naysayers (some, ahem, might call them realists) are swept under the carpet of celebration.
But I’m just saying…
Howard batting third
If you can't wait for Opening Day any longer -- calm down, it's almost here. Manager Charlie Manuel is getting the proceedings started with a slightly stunning move early on, something we didn't see all Spring.
Ryan Howard will bat THIRD this afternoon, with Chase Utley in the clean-up spot followed by Pat Burrell batting fifth.
Ryan Howard will bat THIRD this afternoon, with Chase Utley in the clean-up spot followed by Pat Burrell batting fifth.
35 Reasons to Believe
By Michael Rushton
The Phanatic Magazine
Season Preview
It’s the final countdown.
Not the awesome Europe song that serves as GOB’s unofficial theme song on “Arrested Development,” but the countdown to Opening Day that at the time of publication, was less than two hours away.
Fans haven’t been this excited for the start of the Phillies season in a long time. Long gone is the seemingly incompetent Ed Wade and new general manager Pat Gillick has already put his stamp on this club.
Gone are Bobby Abreu, David Bell, Mike Lieberthal and Randy Wolf. In are Freddy Garcia, Wes Helms, Rod Barajas and Adam Eaton. These additions, along with Philadelphia’s homegrown talent and other transactions, have made the Phils a popular pick to grab a playoff spot if not win the NL East outright.
You’ve read closely as The Phanatic Magazine showed you each player expected to make an impact -- and some who didn't pan out. Now, let’s see how the club stacks up as a whole.
Infield: Few teams in the National League possess an infield as good as the Philadelphia Phillies. Led by the reigning NL MVP, Ryan Howard, the Phils’ infield has a lot of power and can hit for average as well. Howard, of course, is the big deep threat. Last year’s home run derby champ clubbed a franchise record 58 home runs -- breaking Mike Schmidt’s 1980 club record -- and his 149 RBI were the highest by a Fightin’ since Chuck Klein’s 170 in 1930, the current franchise record. Both Howard’s home run and RBI total led the majors.
Also grabbing some of the spotlight is second baseman Chase Utley. Utley brings a lot of power to the second base position and his .309 average last season makes him the perfect table setter for Howard. Utley will also swipe his fair share of bases, making him arguably the best second baseman in the entire league.
Together, Howard and Utley are the perfect blend of power and contact (Howard hit .313 last season) and make up the best right side of the infield in the majors. Throw in shortstop Jimmy Rollins and the Phillies infield boosts three potential All-Stars.
Rollins made waves when he proclaimed the Phillies the team to beat this year in the division, and he will once again try to take that one last step to becoming a complete leadoff hitter.
Already spectacular with the glove and possessing power from the leadoff spot, Rollins is just a .266 career hitter in April, but hits at a .289 clip in September. A fast start and less strikeouts will vault Rollins to the top of the list in regards to leadoff hitters.
Wes Helms presents the weakest link in the Phils’ infield, especially defensively, but has never been a full-time starter and is a better hitting option than Abraham Nunez.
Overall Rating: A -
Outfield: The Phillies outfield is one of potential, and it all starts in left field. The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde known as Pat Burrell must pick an identity this year. Burrell, the most talked about topic this season after Howard’s bat and Utley’s contract, has power but is perhaps lacking the mental strength. His strikeout numbers are too high for his production, and his inability to drive in runners in scoring position last season was well documented.
Burrell must do a better job this year if he is to protect Howard in the lineup.
Aaron Rowand brings his heart and dedication back to the field. Rowand’s hustle twice led to drawbacks last season, as two separate collisions (one with a wall and one with Utley) sidelined him last year. Rowand’s name has come up a lot more than it should in trade discussions, but the intangibles he brings to the table make up for the few deficiencies in his game. Expect more than last year’s .262 average.
Shane Victorino begins the season as the starter in right field. While not possessing the power that a right fielder should, he is a spark plug none the less and should become more dangerous on the base paths under the guidance of first base coach Davey Lopes.
Overall, each position in Philadelphia’s outfield brings a different element to the table in the form of Burrell’s power, Rowand’s leadership and contact, and Victorino’s speed and scrappiness.
Overall Rating: B
Catcher and Bench: Barajas and Carlos Ruiz will split time at the catching position. The Phillies would like nothing more than for Ruiz to develop at the plate and continue his solid defensive play as well. However, in case he fails to come along at a good pace, the Phillies brought in a veteran in Barajas as a safety net. Barajas may fair well at Citizens Bank Park as he hit 11 homers in just 97 games last year.
The Phillies bench is interesting to say the least, but not deep. Nunez will see the most time in the field of the group, mostly as a defensive replacement for Helms, but he should get some starts every now and then as well.
It was nice to see outfielder Jayson Werth make the roster if only for the fact that he is trying to resurrect a career derailed by injury. He played in 101 games with the Dodgers in 2005, but missed all of last season due to a wrist injury.
The final two names on the bench spark the most interest.
Greg Dobbs, a former Mariner, came out of nowhere to win an Opening Day spot, and wasn't even one of the 35 players profiled by The Phanatic Magazine. This year’s Chris Coste (Coste will start the year on the DL and may be given a spot when he returns) batted .358 in spring and belted five homers with a team-leading 20 RBI.
Michael Bourn rounds out the bench and is my pick as the player who could have the biggest impact. However, that impact could come in the front office. If Bourn puts together a good season and meets the expectations the team has for him to eventually take over in center field, the club could move Rowand this year before the deadline. Rowand is a free agent at the end of the season.
Overall Rating: C
Starting Pitching: The Phils’ rotation is as deep as it has ever been. The additions of Garcia and Eaton to complement ace Brett Myers, young lefty Cole Hamels, and rock-solid veteran Jamie Moyer gives the club a solid starting five.
Myers went through a tough stretch last season that involved a certain incident in Boston, but has shown nothing but growth and maturity so far this season. With the addition of Garcia (17-9 last season with the White Sox) the Phillies have a one-two punch that could win 40 games.
Hamels is the most unproven of the bunch, but showed what he can do last season with a 9-8 mark and 145 strikeouts in 132 1/3 innings. His devastating off-speed stuff will baffle hitters all season. Moyer will provide the kind of guidance Myers and Hamels will need once the team reaches the postseason. The 44-year-old will serve as a positive influence on the rest of the Phils staff, and can still win 12-14 games.
Eaton should shore up the rotation as long as he stays healthy. Interestingly enough, it is Garcia and the man Eaton bumped out of the rotation, Jon Lieber, who begin the season on the DL, not Eaton. However, if the righty doesn’t stay healthy, his signing could be a black mark on Gillick’s resume.
Overall Rating: A
Bullpen: Undoubtedly will be the club’s Achilles Heel all season. Tom Gordon was effective last year (34 saves), but also went through a dead-arm phase, and at 39 there is no reason to expect it not to happen again this year. Also, if something does happen to Gordon, the Phillies don’t have a sure choice to replace him.
That role would most likely go to Ryan Madson, who had a good spring and will serve as the eighth inning setup guy. Madson and Geoff Geary both had solid springs, especially Madson with his 1.69 earned run average, and may surprise people with how well they shorten games out of the bullpen.
However, after those three, the pen gets shakey. Matt Smith is the lone lefty and was rocked to the tune of a 7.50 ERA this spring, and it is hard to tell how much soon-to-be 35-year-old Antonio Alfonseca has left in the tank.
Righties Clay Condrey and Zack Segovia will complete the bullpen after winning jobs out of spring, though one should return to Triple-A when Lieber comes off the DL. However, it is very hard to see Lieber sticking around in the bullpen for too long. He is still likely to get traded any day now unless the Phillies are concerned about Garcia or Eaton getting hurt early.
Overall Rating: D
Overview: On paper, the Phillies should be able to compete with the Mets, and get the edge because of their pitching staff. However, titles are not won on paper.
Not everything needs to go right for Philadelphia, but a nasty combination of the following could quickly derail them.
A given for any team is that their pitching staff must stay healthy. While the club is six deep, it is very thin after that and one or two injuries can not be filled from within the organization. Also, Burrell must hit and Victorino needs to put it together over a full season. Don’t worry about the infield (Howard, Utley, Rollins), they will be fine.
The team must also avoid a slow start. A poor April and May most certainly means manager Charlie Manuel is out the door, and Lieber and Rowand will be dealt sooner than later. The team would also continue to try and move Burrell as well.
However, a Philadelphia club making its first World Series appearance since 1993 is far more likely.
You just have to believe.
Below is staff predictions for the upcoming season. The first three are division champs, followed by wild card winners.
NL
Michael Rushton: Phillies, Cubs, Dodgers, Braves
Tim McManus: Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, Mets
Eric Redner: Phillies, Cubs, Giants, Mets
Jared Trexler: Mets, Brewers, Padres, Phillies
Steve Lienert: Braves, Astros, Dodgers, Mets
John Gottlieb: Mets, Cardinals, Dodgers, Phillies
John McMullen: Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, Mets
AL
Rushton: Yankees, Tigers, Angels, Red Sox
McManus: Yankees, Tigers, Athletics, Red Sox
Redner: Red Sox, Tigers, Angels, Yankees
Trexler: Red Sox, Indians, Angels, Tigers
Lienert: Red Sox, Twins, Athletics, Yankees
Gottlieb: Yankees, Tigers, Angels, Red Sox
McMullen: Yankees, Twins, Angels, Tigers
World Series:
Rushton: Angels over Cubs
McManus: Tigers over Dodgers
Redner: Red Sox over Phillies
Trexler: Angels over Padres
Lienert: Mets over Red Sox
Gottlieb: Angels over Dodgers
McMullen: Dodgers over Yankees
Optimism only goes so far as none of The Phanatic Magazine staffers picked the Phillies to reach the World Series sans Redner, who has the club losing to the Red Sox.
With regards to the Phils, of the six staffers who posted picks as of 11:30 a.m. (et), Redner, Gottlieb and Lienert predict Utley to be the team's MVP, while Trexler and Rushton like Myers. McManus is the only one with sense, and went with Howard.
On the negative side, both Rushton and McManus feel Eaton will be Philadelphia's biggest disappointment, while Redner (Helms), Trexler (Gordon), Gottlieb (Burrell) and Lienert (Burrell) all see different.
Interestinly enough, all six writers feel Manuel will make it through the entire season as the manager, though Lienert predicts his exit at season's end.
The Phanatic Magazine
Season Preview
It’s the final countdown.
Not the awesome Europe song that serves as GOB’s unofficial theme song on “Arrested Development,” but the countdown to Opening Day that at the time of publication, was less than two hours away.
Fans haven’t been this excited for the start of the Phillies season in a long time. Long gone is the seemingly incompetent Ed Wade and new general manager Pat Gillick has already put his stamp on this club.
Gone are Bobby Abreu, David Bell, Mike Lieberthal and Randy Wolf. In are Freddy Garcia, Wes Helms, Rod Barajas and Adam Eaton. These additions, along with Philadelphia’s homegrown talent and other transactions, have made the Phils a popular pick to grab a playoff spot if not win the NL East outright.
You’ve read closely as The Phanatic Magazine showed you each player expected to make an impact -- and some who didn't pan out. Now, let’s see how the club stacks up as a whole.
Infield: Few teams in the National League possess an infield as good as the Philadelphia Phillies. Led by the reigning NL MVP, Ryan Howard, the Phils’ infield has a lot of power and can hit for average as well. Howard, of course, is the big deep threat. Last year’s home run derby champ clubbed a franchise record 58 home runs -- breaking Mike Schmidt’s 1980 club record -- and his 149 RBI were the highest by a Fightin’ since Chuck Klein’s 170 in 1930, the current franchise record. Both Howard’s home run and RBI total led the majors.
Also grabbing some of the spotlight is second baseman Chase Utley. Utley brings a lot of power to the second base position and his .309 average last season makes him the perfect table setter for Howard. Utley will also swipe his fair share of bases, making him arguably the best second baseman in the entire league.
Together, Howard and Utley are the perfect blend of power and contact (Howard hit .313 last season) and make up the best right side of the infield in the majors. Throw in shortstop Jimmy Rollins and the Phillies infield boosts three potential All-Stars.
Rollins made waves when he proclaimed the Phillies the team to beat this year in the division, and he will once again try to take that one last step to becoming a complete leadoff hitter.
Already spectacular with the glove and possessing power from the leadoff spot, Rollins is just a .266 career hitter in April, but hits at a .289 clip in September. A fast start and less strikeouts will vault Rollins to the top of the list in regards to leadoff hitters.
Wes Helms presents the weakest link in the Phils’ infield, especially defensively, but has never been a full-time starter and is a better hitting option than Abraham Nunez.
Overall Rating: A -
Outfield: The Phillies outfield is one of potential, and it all starts in left field. The Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde known as Pat Burrell must pick an identity this year. Burrell, the most talked about topic this season after Howard’s bat and Utley’s contract, has power but is perhaps lacking the mental strength. His strikeout numbers are too high for his production, and his inability to drive in runners in scoring position last season was well documented.
Burrell must do a better job this year if he is to protect Howard in the lineup.
Aaron Rowand brings his heart and dedication back to the field. Rowand’s hustle twice led to drawbacks last season, as two separate collisions (one with a wall and one with Utley) sidelined him last year. Rowand’s name has come up a lot more than it should in trade discussions, but the intangibles he brings to the table make up for the few deficiencies in his game. Expect more than last year’s .262 average.
Shane Victorino begins the season as the starter in right field. While not possessing the power that a right fielder should, he is a spark plug none the less and should become more dangerous on the base paths under the guidance of first base coach Davey Lopes.
Overall, each position in Philadelphia’s outfield brings a different element to the table in the form of Burrell’s power, Rowand’s leadership and contact, and Victorino’s speed and scrappiness.
Overall Rating: B
Catcher and Bench: Barajas and Carlos Ruiz will split time at the catching position. The Phillies would like nothing more than for Ruiz to develop at the plate and continue his solid defensive play as well. However, in case he fails to come along at a good pace, the Phillies brought in a veteran in Barajas as a safety net. Barajas may fair well at Citizens Bank Park as he hit 11 homers in just 97 games last year.
The Phillies bench is interesting to say the least, but not deep. Nunez will see the most time in the field of the group, mostly as a defensive replacement for Helms, but he should get some starts every now and then as well.
It was nice to see outfielder Jayson Werth make the roster if only for the fact that he is trying to resurrect a career derailed by injury. He played in 101 games with the Dodgers in 2005, but missed all of last season due to a wrist injury.
The final two names on the bench spark the most interest.
Greg Dobbs, a former Mariner, came out of nowhere to win an Opening Day spot, and wasn't even one of the 35 players profiled by The Phanatic Magazine. This year’s Chris Coste (Coste will start the year on the DL and may be given a spot when he returns) batted .358 in spring and belted five homers with a team-leading 20 RBI.
Michael Bourn rounds out the bench and is my pick as the player who could have the biggest impact. However, that impact could come in the front office. If Bourn puts together a good season and meets the expectations the team has for him to eventually take over in center field, the club could move Rowand this year before the deadline. Rowand is a free agent at the end of the season.
Overall Rating: C
Starting Pitching: The Phils’ rotation is as deep as it has ever been. The additions of Garcia and Eaton to complement ace Brett Myers, young lefty Cole Hamels, and rock-solid veteran Jamie Moyer gives the club a solid starting five.
Myers went through a tough stretch last season that involved a certain incident in Boston, but has shown nothing but growth and maturity so far this season. With the addition of Garcia (17-9 last season with the White Sox) the Phillies have a one-two punch that could win 40 games.
Hamels is the most unproven of the bunch, but showed what he can do last season with a 9-8 mark and 145 strikeouts in 132 1/3 innings. His devastating off-speed stuff will baffle hitters all season. Moyer will provide the kind of guidance Myers and Hamels will need once the team reaches the postseason. The 44-year-old will serve as a positive influence on the rest of the Phils staff, and can still win 12-14 games.
Eaton should shore up the rotation as long as he stays healthy. Interestingly enough, it is Garcia and the man Eaton bumped out of the rotation, Jon Lieber, who begin the season on the DL, not Eaton. However, if the righty doesn’t stay healthy, his signing could be a black mark on Gillick’s resume.
Overall Rating: A
Bullpen: Undoubtedly will be the club’s Achilles Heel all season. Tom Gordon was effective last year (34 saves), but also went through a dead-arm phase, and at 39 there is no reason to expect it not to happen again this year. Also, if something does happen to Gordon, the Phillies don’t have a sure choice to replace him.
That role would most likely go to Ryan Madson, who had a good spring and will serve as the eighth inning setup guy. Madson and Geoff Geary both had solid springs, especially Madson with his 1.69 earned run average, and may surprise people with how well they shorten games out of the bullpen.
However, after those three, the pen gets shakey. Matt Smith is the lone lefty and was rocked to the tune of a 7.50 ERA this spring, and it is hard to tell how much soon-to-be 35-year-old Antonio Alfonseca has left in the tank.
Righties Clay Condrey and Zack Segovia will complete the bullpen after winning jobs out of spring, though one should return to Triple-A when Lieber comes off the DL. However, it is very hard to see Lieber sticking around in the bullpen for too long. He is still likely to get traded any day now unless the Phillies are concerned about Garcia or Eaton getting hurt early.
Overall Rating: D
Overview: On paper, the Phillies should be able to compete with the Mets, and get the edge because of their pitching staff. However, titles are not won on paper.
Not everything needs to go right for Philadelphia, but a nasty combination of the following could quickly derail them.
A given for any team is that their pitching staff must stay healthy. While the club is six deep, it is very thin after that and one or two injuries can not be filled from within the organization. Also, Burrell must hit and Victorino needs to put it together over a full season. Don’t worry about the infield (Howard, Utley, Rollins), they will be fine.
The team must also avoid a slow start. A poor April and May most certainly means manager Charlie Manuel is out the door, and Lieber and Rowand will be dealt sooner than later. The team would also continue to try and move Burrell as well.
However, a Philadelphia club making its first World Series appearance since 1993 is far more likely.
You just have to believe.
Below is staff predictions for the upcoming season. The first three are division champs, followed by wild card winners.
NL
Michael Rushton: Phillies, Cubs, Dodgers, Braves
Tim McManus: Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, Mets
Eric Redner: Phillies, Cubs, Giants, Mets
Jared Trexler: Mets, Brewers, Padres, Phillies
Steve Lienert: Braves, Astros, Dodgers, Mets
John Gottlieb: Mets, Cardinals, Dodgers, Phillies
John McMullen: Phillies, Cardinals, Dodgers, Mets
AL
Rushton: Yankees, Tigers, Angels, Red Sox
McManus: Yankees, Tigers, Athletics, Red Sox
Redner: Red Sox, Tigers, Angels, Yankees
Trexler: Red Sox, Indians, Angels, Tigers
Lienert: Red Sox, Twins, Athletics, Yankees
Gottlieb: Yankees, Tigers, Angels, Red Sox
McMullen: Yankees, Twins, Angels, Tigers
World Series:
Rushton: Angels over Cubs
McManus: Tigers over Dodgers
Redner: Red Sox over Phillies
Trexler: Angels over Padres
Lienert: Mets over Red Sox
Gottlieb: Angels over Dodgers
McMullen: Dodgers over Yankees
Optimism only goes so far as none of The Phanatic Magazine staffers picked the Phillies to reach the World Series sans Redner, who has the club losing to the Red Sox.
With regards to the Phils, of the six staffers who posted picks as of 11:30 a.m. (et), Redner, Gottlieb and Lienert predict Utley to be the team's MVP, while Trexler and Rushton like Myers. McManus is the only one with sense, and went with Howard.
On the negative side, both Rushton and McManus feel Eaton will be Philadelphia's biggest disappointment, while Redner (Helms), Trexler (Gordon), Gottlieb (Burrell) and Lienert (Burrell) all see different.
Interestinly enough, all six writers feel Manuel will make it through the entire season as the manager, though Lienert predicts his exit at season's end.
Happy Opening Day
It's not a national holiday -- but maybe it should be. For all of those with tickets to the season opener and those who will be glancing at MLB Gameday and listening online while at work The Phanatic Magazine wishes you a happy Opening Day!
Sunday, April 01, 2007
One day away...
The Phanatic Magazine has dedicated the last 35 days getting you warmed up for the Phillies season by profiling one player each day.
Well, we're out of players, so the regular season must be upon us.
If you missed any of the stories, click on the "Phillies Season Preview" link below to scroll through them. And check back to read Michael Rushton's in-depth preview, that will get you as ready as can be for Opening Day.
In the meantime, read the iconic Bill Lyon's piece on the Phillies' art of seduction.
Well, we're out of players, so the regular season must be upon us.
If you missed any of the stories, click on the "Phillies Season Preview" link below to scroll through them. And check back to read Michael Rushton's in-depth preview, that will get you as ready as can be for Opening Day.
In the meantime, read the iconic Bill Lyon's piece on the Phillies' art of seduction.
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