Tom Terrific

After a disastrous, injury-riddled 4-12 season in 2003, the New York Giants made some drastic changes. They fired Jim Fassell, and Kurt Warner succeeded longtime QB Kerry Collins.

To succeed head coach Jim Fassell, the Giants chose Tom Coughlin, who was fired from the Jaguars after the 2002 season and was out of the league in 2003.

In a surprising move, Coughlin benched Warner, who had a 5-4 record that season, with rookie Eli Manning, who in turn lost all but one of his starts that year. Coughlin was widely criticized for the move.

However, the next season, Manning led the team to an 11-5 record and division title (their first since 2000), and the playoffs for the first time since 2002.

He even fixed Tiki Barber's fumbling tendencies, (despite what Barber's comments about Coughlin may have you believe).

2006 was when the "Fire Tom Coughlin" business began. After the Giants advanced to the postseason in 2006, and despite losing in the first round, Coughlin received a one-year contract extention, to the ire of many fans.

(Note the date under the title).

In 2007, after an 0-2 start, the Giants went 13-4 for the rest of the season, earning a playoff berth and defeated the Cowboys in the division title game after they were swept by them in the regular season. This led to an epic showdown between the Giants and Packers in the NFC Championship game, which ended on a Lawrence Tynes field goal in overtime, (still one of my favorite games!)

(Sorry to those of you who aren't Joe Buck Fans)

In one of the best Superbowls of all-time, Coughlin's Giants defeated the 18-0 Patriots, and he was given a four-year contract extension.

Although they haven't made the playoffs since, it isn't all his fault. The failed out-of-bounds punt, while not a great call, could have worked if done by current P Steve Weatherford, and the current team could still make the playoffs if they sweep the Dallas Cowboys in the season series.

In my opinion, Coughlin has been the best Giants coach since Bill Parcells (under whom Coughlin served as Wide Receivers coach during their Superbowl XXV victory run).

If anyone should be fired, Perry Fewell and Kevin Gilbride are higher on my list, and that is before you get to the players.

Their are 32 head coaches in the NFL, but only a select few are elite coaches, (Belicheat and Tomlin are a few others that certainly come to mind). Coughlin, though he sometimes may not be treated like an elite coach by the media and some of the fans, certainly belongs in that group.

Get Back, Jack!

The Jacksonville Jaguars have finally fired longtime coach Jack Del Rio after starting the year 3-8.

This is a move that I have seen coming for quite a while. Del Rio was 69-73 in his career with the Jaguars, and 1-2 in the postseason. His team never won the division. Del Rio was well-known for blasting assistants and benching underpreformers. He coached current Jets backup QB Mark Brunell while he was a Jaguar.

The team has also been sold to new owners.

You May Be Right...

I'm going ballistic here folks. The New York Giants NEED a MAJOR shake up, and fast.

The special teams are fine as is with Tynes, Weatherford, and Thomas.

The offense could use some new faces:

Eli Manning and David Carr are safe. The quarterback play has been consistant thusfar in 2011.

The running game might be an issue, though.

Ahmad Bradshaw, when healthy, is one of the better runningbacks in the league, and recently signed a new contract. Brandon Jacobs, however, is likely in his final year as a Giant with his play not being as well as it should and his mouth running off about his contract status. Da'Rel Scott may see his playing time increase more in the coming weeks.

And Kevin Gilbride might not be safe if the offense doesn't step up NOW!

The defense might be an issue. Perry Fewell has come under my wrath recently for the defense's play. The Cornerback position needs a mix-up.

With Prince Amukamara filling in admirably for the injured Terrell Thomas thusfar, Aaron Ross is likely to see his Giants career come to a long awaited end after the season.

The linebacking core has preformed well in 2011, and that will spell trouble for MLB Jonathan Goff, who after the season is a free agent.

Deon Grant could possibly be replaced at FS permenantly by Antrel Rolle.

I know that the team as it is now can win, but a collapse WILL mean MAJOR changes to the team.

Hot Stove

According to multiple sources, former Yankees C Jose Molina has signed a 1-year, $1.8 Million deal with the Tampa Bay Rays. This move had been forthcoming.

Molina will serve as a backup to John Jaso.

http://msn.foxsports.com/mlb/story/Jose-Molina-Tampa-Bay-Rays-contract-details-112811

The Oakland A's have hired former Yankees designated hitter Chili Davis as their hitting coach. Davis was the Yankkes DH in 1998 and 1999, two of my favorite teams.

The Red Sox have offered arbritration to Designated Hitter David Ortiz and RHP Dan Wheeler.

On a contrary note, the San Francisco Giants have declined arbritration on OF Cody Ross and Pat Burrell. Burrell has stated he is likely headed for retirement, though no official word has been given yet. They have not offered anything to OF Carlos Beltran.

Indians OF Grady Sizemore has signed a 1 year, $5,000,000 deal to remain in Cleveland.

Royals LHP Bruce Chen has signed a 2-year, $9,000,000 deal to stay in Kansas City.

And the Houston Astos have fired GM Ed Wade and President Tal Smith in moves that surprised no one. George Postolos will take over as President. No indication has been given as to the new GM.

The Pittsburgh Pirates have released OF Xavier Paul.

A Closed Case!

One of the many positions the Mets struggled with this past season was relief pitchers, particularly closer. After trading K-Rod, the Mets used a rotating panel of closers that included Jason Isringhausen, Tim Byrdak, and the EPIC FAILURE of an experiment that was Bobby Parnell.

Heading into 2012, what the Mets need more than anything (other than starters), is a closer. One that they will stick with for the foreseeable future. We have seen J.J. Putz, K-Rod, and Heath Bell go on to have successful careers as closers WITH OTHER TEAMS, but unfortunately, not with the Mets.

Now I, being the hardcore fan that I am, followed all 162 Mets games either on radio or television, and it was blatant that after K-Rod left, the Mets did not have a successful closer.

Jason Isringhausen provided a solid TEMPORARY replacement, but injured his back during the final month of the season and therefore pitched what turned out to be his final game on September 6th, hurling two perfect innings in relief. While his performance was wonderful and I, with my bias toward good old athletes, definitely want to see him back in 2012, it will not be as closer. He can provide a solid presence in the bullpen as a setup man alternating with Parnell. A return to the Mets benefits all three sides of the triangle: I don't have to see him retire (and thus, don't have to write a farewell article!); He stays with Terry Collins, who in my opinion is one of the best managers when it comes to giving aging veteran players adequate rest; and he can continue to pitch, which he has stated is his desire for next year.

Izzy celebrates with C Josh Thole after recording his 300th career save.

If the Mets give up on Bobby Parnell, it WILL come back to haunt them, (SEE: Heath Bell, J.J. Ptuz), he can be a reliable seventh or eight inning pitcher, alternating with the 39-year-old Izzy.

The Mets have a few options at closer in free agency (Heath Bell, K-Rod, Francisco Cordero), and I feel that they will delve into that pool this offseason.

Regardless, the Mets NEED a new closer in 2012 if they intend to hold leads in late innings.

The Impossible Dream

The Eagles are in such a state of disaster that their season is over if they lose today to the Patriots, (which they are poised to do).

That's right, the "Dream Team" is doomed to fall to the point of no return in the NFC East.

Michael Vick has been a shred of what he was in 2010, limited by injuries, Nnamdi Asomougha has been a huge bust, Steve Smith has had only one big moment (against the Giants of course), and Andy Reid's job is in serious jeopardy.

Here are the updated standings:
Dallas (7-4)
Giants (6-4)* Monday Night vs. Saints
Philly (4-7)
Washington (3-8)

Texans Sign Kellen Clemens!

With QB Matt Schaub going on IR, the Houston Texans signed former Jets draft bust Kellen Clemens to a contract. It hasn't been indicated whether he will start or become a backup to Leinart.

I like this move a lot. I have always felt that Kellen Clemens could be one of the better backup quarterbacks in the league, but not a starter.

Clemens was drafted in 2006 by the Jets and spent his first season as a backup to Chad Pennington. When Pennington was struggling in 2007, he took over as starter for the next few games. He never did become the starter that the Jets hoped he would be, and was demoted to backup, behind Brett Favre in 2008 and Mark Sanchez in 2009.

Clemens with the Jets

His fate seemed sealed when the Jets signed the (nearly) 40-year-old Mark Brunell in the 2010 offseason, yet somehow he signed a one-year deal and relieved Brunell in the week 17 matchup against the Bills.

He signed a one-year deal with the Redskins this past offseason, but was cut before the season started.

I really hope that he can play well enough to earn a contract with some team next year and beyond.

Yankees Bring Back Failing Fred!

I can't believe it! Washed-up starter 'Failing Fred' Garcia has returned to the Yankees.

They can win with him, but not against good teams (Boston, Tampa Bay, Detroit, Texas, etc.)

The fact that he is back means that we are in for another year of being crushed by the Red Sox!

The Giants Aren't Collapsing!

The New York Giants aren't going to collapse this year.

At least that's what I feel, and here is why.

For the past two years, the Giants have gotten off to hot starts, then faded down the stretch. With their loss last week, people have begun to herald their "inevitable" collapse.

But that's inaccurate.

I am going to give you some players for the Giants in 2010 and their ages.

Shaun O'Hara, 33
Rich Seubert, 29
Madison Hedgecock, 29
Matt Dodge, 23
Keith Bulluck, 34
Jim Sorgi, 30 (on IR all year, so Manning had no proven backup)

Can you find them now?

Exactly.

The Giants have replaced the aging and injury-prone players (and Matt Dodge) with better, younger, and (in some cases) more durable ones.

It now reads:
David Baas, 30
Kevin Boothe, 28
Henry Hynoski, 22
Steve Weatherford, 28
Mark Herzlich, 24
David Carr, 32

Now, I do have a soft spot in my heart for old athletes, but only those who can still perform at a good level (The Omar Vizquels and Mark Brunells not the Freddy Garcias and Chad Penningtons), and most of the above were the latter, too injury prone to be effective enough to win.

So once again, don't rule the Giants out yet.

Not On The Mark

As I sat watching the Jets and Bills play, I came to the realization that I needed to write an article about Sanchez, so here it goes...

Jets QB Mark Sanchez certainly has had his struggles this season, there's no question about that, and many fans have been calling for him to "shape up or ship out." It seems the Jets (5-5) are in need of a bit of a shake up at quarterback.

Yet no one is doing anything.

The Jets will face the Redskins (3-7) and Chiefs (4-6) in the following weeks. With Sanchez's play and the season-long offensive struggles, sitting Sanchez against a sub-.500 team is a good idea that can benefit both sides. With 41-year-old Mark Brunell as the primary backup followed by youngster Greg McElroy, they have many people who can hold the fort while Sanchez is out.

Yet Brunell seems the logical choice.

Brunell plays against the Bills in 2010. He won, end of story.

Now I know what you are probably thinking, why start an old quarterback when you have a plethora of youngsters to choose from. My reasoning is as follows: it lights a fire under a young player like Sanchez.

What young starter in their right mind would willingly step aside to be replaced by an older player who hasn't been a starter since 2006?

And that is the entire idea, if Sanchez can regain his form from 2010, the Jets can easily make the playoffs with the way the Bills have fallen apart and with the Dolphins playing like I have become so used to in the past decade.

Why the Yankees Need Omar Vizquel

44-year-old INF Omar Vizquel has stated his desire to play again in 2012. Vizquel may be old, but he is still a tremendous fielder and has won 11 gold gloves at shortstop, the most all time. The Yankees are the perfect fit for the aging veteran.

The Yankee bench last year was mediocre. INF Eric Chávez couldn't stay healthy, even in a reserve role, Peña couldn't hit, and Eduardo Núñez led the team with 20 errors.

Now picture yourself as Brian Cashman: He has a bench that last year was terrible defense and offense wise, a player (A-Rod), who has 5 years left on his contract and hasn't played a full season since 2007 (incidentally, the year he signed his 10-year deal!), and aging icons in A-Rod and Jeter who will need the DH spot (especially Rodríguez !) more frequently. Núñez will need to play infield more in the coming years, so he needs to learn to play better defense.

And who better to teach him defense than the man who holds the record with 11 Gold Gloves at Shortstop?

He may be old for an athlete, but in over 2,200 games at shortstop he has only made 138 TOTAL errors! This man MUST have some things he can teach these young Yankee infielders, and he himself could be an EXTREMELY valuable addition to the Yankees' bench.

So, with age aside...

Why not?

NFL Week 11

Jets vs. Broncos

On Thursday, the Jets faced the Broncos in what was a pathetic game.

First Quarter
The game was held scoreless until late in the third quarter when Matt Prater made a 37 yard field goal. 3-0 Broncos.

After a series of incompletions, Nick Folk missed a 52 yard field goal and Denver had the ball.

With just under a minute, Willis McGahee ran for a loss of 3 yards. Calvin Pace then forced a fumble and Bart Scott returned it for 9 yards, followed by a 6 yard pass to RB Joe McKnight.

Second Quarter
A long drive mixed with passing and running plays ended on a Nick Folk 21 yard field goal. Game tied at 3.

The Broncos ran a few plays before handing the ball to Tim Tebow. He threw one pass before they punted for 29 yards. After a few long drives, Nick Folk missed a 61 yarder as time expired.

Halftime

Third Quarter
Mark Sanchez throws a 30 yard pass to Plaxico Burress, and then McKnight ran for 10 yards. Mark Sanchez then threw an incomplete pass for Plaxico and Andre Goodman was penalized for illegal contact.

After a series of pass plays, Bilal Powell rushed for no gain but Matt Slauson recovered a fumble and scored a touchdown, and Folk's extra point was good. 10-3 Jets.

Denver tried a series of pass plays that failed but with 4:30 left, Sanchez threw an interception returned for a touchdown and it was 10-10 Denver.

4th Quarter

Nick Folk makes a 45 yarder, 13-10.

That was all until the last minute.

Tim Tebow rushed 20 yards for a touchdown. 17-13 Broncos.

That was the game.

Bills at Dolphins

The Bills got up early and never scored again.

K Dave Rayner, filling in for Lindell, kicked a 30 yarder, 3-0 Bills.

Matt Moore to Facado for a TD, 7-3.

Reggie Bush TD. 14-3.

Second Quarter

Moore threw an TD, 21-3.

Moore to Bess, TD. 28-3.

Finally, Dan Rayner made a field goal, 28-6.

Third Quarter
Brian Moorman had a punt blocked and returned for a TD. 35-6.

Kelvin Sheppard got a safety, 35-8. That was the game.

Giants vs. Eagles
The first scoring play was a field goal by the Eagles in the second quarter.

Vince Young threw a 14 yarder to former Giant Steve Smith 10-0.

At the end of the quarter, Tynes made a 48 yard field goal. 10-3.

The next scoring was a 24 yard TD by Manning to Cruz to tie it at 10.

With under 3 minutes, Young threw an 8 yard pass to Cooper. 17-10 Eagles.

Then the Giants were penalized for intentional grounding. Eli Manning threw a pass to Victor Cruz. LeSean McCoy gained huge yardage and the game was over.

Then they turned it over, and the game was over.

Why I Don't (Solely) Blame Mark Sanchez

Face it, Mark Sanchez hasn't played exceptional thusfar in 2011. He does have over 2100 passing yards and 14 touchdowns vs. 9 interceptions, and 75 rushing yards with 3 touchdowns.

While he has lost 5 fumbles and hasn't been the model of consistancy this season, he is getting it done. The Jets are 5-4, constituting of 3rd in the AFC East, but that isn't all his fault. The Jets have suffered only one blowout loss this year, (last week against the Patriots), and have had other players step up so far (Shonn Greene), so I feel that if they can keep this up and beat teams such as the Dolphins and Bills, they will make the wild card spot in 2011.

Hot Stove!

The Phillies signed backup C and former Met Brian Schneider to a 1-year deal for $800,000. He batted .176 with 2 homers and 9 RBIs in 41 games and worked well with the pitching staff.

I like this deal, it benefits the Phillies by giving them a quality backup catcher at low cost and they are both familiar with each other.

The Chicago Cubs today announced the hiring of Dale Sveum as manager for 2012. He spent last season as the Brewers' hitting coach.

The owners of the Houston Astros have completed the sale of the team and 2012 will be their last season in the National League before moving to the American League for realignment in 2013.

The Padres signed OF Mark Kotsay to a 1-year, $1.25 million deal. He played with the previously from 2001-2003, and hit .270 with 3 homers and 31 RBIs in 2011.

Nationals C Wilson Ramos has been safely returned home to his family after his kidnapping.

SS Jamey Carroll signed a 2-year, $6.5 million deal with the Twins. The 38-year-old hit .290 with no homers in 2011.

And the Los Angeles Dodgers have signed OF Matt Kemp to an 8-year, $160 million contract.

Why It's Tebow Time

With the Jets facing the Broncos tomorrow, I felt this was a good time to analyze Tebow and his future in Denver.

Let's face it. The Denver Broncos haven't had a franchise quarterback since John Elway retired after winning Superbowl XXXIII in 1999. That's quite a long time to wait. According to Answers.com, the Broncos have now had 7 different quarterbacks since the retirement of Elway:

Brian Griese
Chris Miller
Gus Frerrotte
Jake Plummer
Jay Cutler
Kyle Orton

and finally,
Tim Tebow

During that time, they have won ONE, and only one playoff game (in three appearances).

Isn't it time to find a successor?

Well, they have him.

Tim Tebow is that him. He can pass and run, has the benefit of an impressive college career, and is a young man on a team that hasn't been good in over a decade. With Kyle Orton only under contract for this season, and the Broncos seemingly not going anywhere this year, it's time to admit that they need to undergo a radical change.

And that all starts at the quarterback position.

A Rivalry Renewed

The Jets faced the New England Patriots in Week 10.

First Quarter

A long drive by the Jets consisting of a number of pass plays ends in Patriots territory with a chance to strike first.

Nick Folk sets for a 24-yarder with a chance to put the Jets up first.

But we found the Folk of old, and he misses it. Still scoreless.

Patriots ball, Tom Terrific completes 12 and 21 yard passes to TEs Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski respectively.

Brady then completed a 12 yarder to Ochocinco.

But the defense stepped up, and RB BenJarvus Green-Ellis lost 2 yards thanks to a joint tackle by DE Mike DeVito and Sione Pouha.

K Stephen Gostkowski comes out and kicks a 50 yard field goal. 3-0 Patriots.

Kick off

Sanchez completes a pass to WR Jeremy Kerley and RB Shonn Greene runs for 7 yards, followed by a 2 yard run by LT.

Then the Patriots showed their magic by sacking Sanchez for a loss of 7 yards. Jets forced to punt a 38 yarder by Conley and Stevan Ridley rushed for a total of 2 yards on 2 seperate plays. Ball on the Patriots 29 yard line.

Brady passes a 53 yarder to WR Ochocinco. Following a few incompletions, Gostkowski kicked a 36 yard field goal and it was 6-0 Patriots.

Kickoff.

Shonn Greene runs for a total of 14 yards to the Jets 34 yard line.

But the defense failed again, and Sanchez was sacked for a loss of 8 yards by Andra Carter.

Second Quarter

Plaxico Burress is called for a pass interference penalty (10 yards).

A 7 yard rush by LT followed by a 54 yard punt by Conley, returned for 16 yards forced the Jets to call a timeout.

Brady threw a 20 yard pass to WR Deion Branch followed by 2incompletions for Brady forced New England to punt for 33 yards.

Sanchez passed to Plaxico and Greene for a total of 28 yards.

Greene rushes for 12 yards and LT for 6 yards as the Jets are penalized for grounding on an incompletion by Sanchez for a loss of 11 yards.

Conley punted for 47 yards and Tom Brady then throws a 5 yarder to TE Rob Gronkowski, but G Logan Mankins is penalized for holding and loses 6 yards.

P Zoltan Mesko punts for 41 yards and Kerley returns 1 yard before a penalty on CB Kyle Wilson.

With less than 7 minutes, Brady is penalized for intentional grounding and the Jets get a saftey 6-2 Pats.

With 7 plays, a Jets drive ends with Mark Sanchez rushing for a 2 yard touchdown and Nick Folk's extra point is good. 9-6 Jets.

With 38 seconds, Rob Gronkowski commits what appeared to be a fumble, but he was ruled down by contact.

With 38 seconds, SS Eric Smith comits a facemask penalty and the Jets lose 5 yards.

Brady completes a TD to Wes Welker and MO Wilkerson commits a penalty. 13-9 Pats.

Halftime

Third Quarter

With just under 13 minutes, Sanchez throws an incompletion to Holmes, followed by an incompletion to Burress.

Tom Terrific,almost sacked, avoids multiple Jets and completes a touchdown pass to TE Rob Gronkowski.

But after review, Gronkowki was out of bounds and the play revoked. Still 13-9.

Gostkowski kicks a field goal to make it 16-9, and Gronkowski catches a touchdown from Brady to make it 23-9 after the extra point.

However, Gronkowski spiked the ball after the catch and was penalized for unportsmanlike conduct.

Sanchez completed a 30 yard pass to Dustin Kellerwith just over minute remaining, followed by a rushing play by LT to get the first down. An incompletion by Sanchez on a rushed play with mere seconds remaining and the fourth quarter began.

A thouchdown by Sanchez and an extra point and the score is 23-16.

An interception by Sanchez and the score was 37-16.

After an absolutely PATHETIC game, the Jets fell to 5-4.
B

Week 10

Note: This is the beginning of a series of articles on the New York Football teams (kind of late, no!)

New York Giants @ San Francisco 49ers
A heartbreaking loss by the Giants to a team that they could have beaten. A long drive to start the game which ended with a Lawrence Tynes 23 Yard field goal.

But the Niners answered right back with a 36 yarder by David Akers. Game tied at 3.

At the start of the second quarter, Eli Manning and the Giants ran a mix of running and passing plays that ended with another Tynes field goal, this one a 25 yarder to put the Giants ahead 6-3.

And...

The Niners returned with a 52 yard field goal by David Akers to tie the game at 6.

Then Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman called for an onside kick recovered by the Niners. After this, Eli Manning threw a pass intercepted by Carlos Rogers which seemed (to me) a critical mistake.

It turned out not so big.

Corey Webster returned the favor by intercepting Alex Smith and returning it for 6 yards, and Manning threw 2 short passes to RB DJ Ware, who was filling in for the injured Ahmad Bradshaw, and thus ended the first half.

Third Quarter

A long drive by the 49ers ends in a 28 yarder by Akers. 12-6 Niners.

Then it got rolling.

Eli Manning throws a 13 yard touchdown to Mario Manningham and Lawrence Tynes extra point is good to put the Giants ahead 13-12.

Fourth Quarter

Alex Smith throws a pass to TE Vernon Davis for a 31 yard touchdown, followed by a 2-point conversion to WR Michael Crabtree. Niners ahead 20-13.
RB Kendall Hunter rushed for a 17 yard touchdown and Akers' extra point was good. 27-13 Niners.

Eli and Big Blue came back with a 32 yard touchdown pass to Hakeem Nicks and Tynes' extra point was good. It seemed like they were coming back, 27-20 Niners.

The comeback never happened.

A number of incompletions by Manning, who just couldn't sprinkle his fourth-quarter magic today, killed the Giants chances for a comeback.

With the loss, Big Blue fell to 6-3 while the Niners improved to 8-1.

On to Buffalo.

Tony Romo and the Cowboys jumped out to an early lead and never gave it back.

A first quarter touchdown to WR Dez Bryant followed by an extra point by Dan Bailey made it 7-0 Cowboys.

Ryan Fitzpatrick was then sacked for -10 yards, which led to a 52-yard punt by Brian Moorman which was caught by Akwasi Owusu-Ansah. Leading to an illegal block penalty on Cowboys CB Orlando Scandrick costing them 10 yards. The Cowboys, however, were able to retain posesion of the ball long enough for Romo to throw a 5 yard touchdown to WR Laurent Robinson followed by an extra point by K Dan Bailey. 14-0 Cowboys.

Tony Romo then threw a touchdown to WR Laurent Robinson and an extra point to make it 21-0.

But the Bills got back, with QB Ryan Fitzpatrick throwing a 3 yard TD pass to David Nelson with K Dave Rayner's extra point good. 21-7.

With 1 minute left in the half, RB DeMarco Murray rushed for a 1-yard TD followed by a Bailey extra point. 28-7 Dallas.

At the start of the third quarter, both teams played good defense but Dan Bailey again made a field goal, (this one for 45 yards). 31-2 Cowboys.

With 19 second to go, Bailey made a 36 yarder, and it was 34-7 Cowboys.

Fourth Quarter
ALL COWBOYS

With 5:15 left, Bailey made another field goal to make it 37-7, followed by a Fitzpatrick interception by Terrencxe Newman for a touchdown and Bailey point is good. 44-7 'Boys.

By this point, Dallas pulled QB Tony Romo out and replaced him with Jon Kitna just to rest him., and the Bills suffered a HUMILIATING defeat by the Cowgirls.

A Sad Decline

Let us take a break from New York Sports for a just a few moments to talk about one of my favorite quarterbacks from my day.

Donovan McNabb, former Eagles quarterback (and thus, long time nemesis of the New York Giants), was shipped off to the Washington Redskins after the 2009 season, and then was traded to the Minnesota Vikings after a disastrous 2010 season, (in a move that STILL puzzles me to this day).

McNabb and Justin Tuck

In what could possibly be my WORST, most HORRIBLE EPIC FAIL of a prediction since I picked the Phillies over the Yankees in the 2009 World Series, McNabb was an utter DISASTER!

Now, I refused to be led to believe that the Redskins would trade McNabb over one (really) bad season, and I REALLY questioned the logic of his trade to (of all teams) the Minnesota Vikings, (who were just coming of a disaster of a season led by Brett Favre), thinking instead that they were content with Tavaris Jackson, (but then again, I felt re-signing Hasselbeck was essential to the Seahawks...)

I did however, say that if McNabb started off terribly or hit a wall in 2011, we may begin to hear rumblings of him being "finished" or "washed up". Now I am a VERY stubborn person when it comes to guys from my day, like McNabb, (because I hate to accept the fact that they may be done).

So do not be surprised if you begin to hear serious questioning of his ability to be a starter beyond 2011 and, even hear retirement chants from fed-up Vikings fans (two consecutive years of disaster), angered Redskins fans, or Phormerly Phaithphul Philly Phans.

Image courtesy of http://beat.bodog.eu/wp-content/uploads/2011/09/donovan-mcnabb-vikings.jpg

Hip Hip...

...
Nothing.
Nada.
Zilch.

All thanks to the Cash Man.

Jorge Posada, though he still has the desire and the ability (as shown in the ALDS) to play, (albeit maybe only in a backup role), has been run out of town by the very team he dedicated his livelyhood to for the past 17 years.

Let's look back on some of my personal favorite moments from his Hall Of Fame worthy career...

1) "The Flip"- Yes, the immortal play would not have come to pass if not for Posada's tag at home plate. EVERYTHING about that play was phenomenal.

"Downstairs, down the right field line. [Jeremy] Giambi on his way to third, and THEY'RE GONNA WAVE HIM AROUND! THE THROW MISSES THE CUTOFF MAN, SHOVEL TO THE PLATE, AND OUT AT THE PLATE! DEREK JETER, WITH ONE OF THE MOST UNBELIEVEABLE PLAYS YOU WILL EVER SEE BY A SHORTSTOP! BOTH CUTOFF MEN WERE MISSED, JETER COMING DOWN THE LINE FIELDED IT WITH HIS BARE HAND A SHOVEL TO POSADA, AND GIAMBI IS OUT! WHAT AN UNBELIEVEABLE PLAY BY JETER!" (Thom Brennaman)

2) Grand Slams (June 12th and 13th 2010) vs. Houston Astros

3) 1,000th RBI vs. Kansas City Royals in 2010.

4) Catching (and therefore calling the pitches) for David Wells during his perfect game in 1998.

5) The Pinch Hit RBI single to send the Yankees to the 2011 postseason AND his 2011 postseason performance!

"The 0-1, LINED INTO RIGHT FIELD, IT'S A BASE HIT, ONE RUN SCORES, TWO RUNS SCORE! HOW 'BOUT THAT! THE VETERAN, COMES THROUGH OFF THE BENCH, WITH A HUGE HIT, TO GIVE THE YANKEES A 4-2 LEAD!" (Michael Kay)

And now, his career stats (1,829 games):

275 homers (most by any catcher since 2000)

1,065 RBIs (most by any catcher since 2000)

1,664 hits (most by any catcher since 2000)

.273 Career AVG

5-time All-Star (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2007)

5-time Silver Slugger Award Winner (2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2007)

This is why he WILL be a Hall of Famer after his official retirement (which should be forthcoming).

So c'mon, one last chant for a Hall of Famer...

Hip Hip...

JORGE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

...And You Thought He Was Done!

According to sources, the Seattle Mariners MAY be interested in signing 49-year-old LHP Jamie Moyer!

Yes, the veteran southpaw still hopes to return in 2012, and I say...

AMEN! (translated, So Be It)

Moyer (age 45), pitches in game 3 of the 2008 World Series. Image courtesy of http://www.baseballmusings.com/archives/JamieMoyer800000000171_10252008_worldseries.jpg

Moyer could theoretically go on forever as long as he can still throw something that remotely resembles a "fast"ball in some way shape or form, and if he learns the knuckleball...he could pitch well into his 50s or 60s if he sees fit. (Just a fact, the oldest professional baseball player was 59-year-old Satchel Paige, who began his career in 1927, in the Negro Leagues, and retired in 1965 with the Kansas City Athletics. (He also spent 1966 in the minor leagues!)

While he may not be an overpowering presence on the mound, he could fit in nicely with a team that has not had a good year since 1995.

While Moyer may only be used as a starter for part of the season, he could become a good lefty specialist if the Mariners are concerned about him wearing down as the season progresses.

Here's to wishing Jamie Moyer gets a real shot and returns for 2012 and (hopefully) many more years to come. He is one of the genuine good guys in baseball today and is in incredible shape at a VERY advanced age (for athletes).

Why Terry Collins deserves Manager of the Year

Yes, you heard it from me.

Mets Manager Terry Collins whose team held a 77-83 record in 2011, deserves the National League Manager of the Year honors.

And here is why.

Quite simply, Collins took what he had, (a mediocre pitching staff, error prone infield, and lack of a staff ace, as well as trades of his team's top reliever and power hitter), and still led the Mets to a good season.

With the injuries (Ike Davis, David Wright, Jose Reyes, Johan Santana), the disappointments and underachievers (Jason Bay, Angel Pagan, MIKE PELFREY!), Terry Collins took over the New York MESS, and turned them into winners, if not in record, than in spirit.

He took a team whose owners are awful, whose players were hurt left and Wright, and who have been not much more than a laughing stock for the past few years, and turned them into a positive story. He believed in the Mets from Day 1 of Spring Training, until game 162, and it showed in his managing and the way he handled the trades.

Hay Hay Hay...

...it's FAT ALBERT,
Haynesworth, that is.

The Patriots DT was claimed off waivers by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers today. Haynesworth was the subject of controversy in New England after he was traded and was speculated to be released before the season opener, however, he stuck around until today.

Haynesworth had only 6 tackles and no sacks through three games with the Patriots.

I honestly am not surprised at all, while I think Haynesworth can play at a hall of fame worthy level, sometimes he is just too lazy, and that leads to things like this.

Hopefully he can get his act together soon, because if he can't, and he is cut again, he might be surprised to find no one lining up to sign him.

"He is positively SWISHALICIOUS!"

NOT!

Why the Yankees would even THINK to bring back underperforming RF Nick Swisher tells you one thing about the team and front office.

They are no longer "the Yankees".

They used to be all out on the BEST, and only the best free agents at each position. Now, they settle for underachieveing, (and in some cases, though not this one, washed-up) players- SEE: Freddy Garcia.

Now, I like Swisher. His personality and presence light up the clubhouse, but at the end of the day, the Yankees need players who can produce in the postseason, and with A-Rod and Tex locked into long-term big money deals, letting Swisher walk seemed like an easy choice, but in the end,

"El esta aqui!"* (SEE: Carlos Beltran)

If he doesn't produce this year, mark my words,

It will be his last as a Yankee!

Nick Swisher strikes out with the bases loaded in the ninth inning in the 2009 ALDS.

*Translated, literally, "He is here."

The "Perfect" Destination for Buehrle

The best destination for free agent LHP Mark Buehrle is NOT the Yankees.
It is not the Red Sox.
It is not the Marlins.
It is the Chicago White Sox.

Buehrle began his career in 2000, but did not pitch full-time until 2001.
In 2007, his sixth full season, he pitched a no-hitter for the White Sox, allowing only a walk to Sammy Sosa in the 5th inning (only to later pick him off).

But his real gem was in 2009.

Throwing a perfect game in July of that year, he would go down in White Sox history.

Courtesy of http://thenbr.files.wordpress.com/2010/03/mark_buehrle_perfect_game.jpg

So why should he leave now?

I know the 2011 White Sox were a disaster, and some players were underachievers (AHEM, Adam Dunn), but why should Buehrle (13-9, 3.59 ERA)leave because of a terrible season for the team. You might as well loose Adam Dunn AND Alexi Ramirez before letting Buehrle walk. I tell you, if he leaves, it will be a move White Sox fans won't soon forget.

And one Kenny Williams won't either.

Royals Send Cabrera to Giants!

No, not Orlando! Former Yankees CF Melky Cabrera has been traded to the San Francisco Giants for LHP Jonathan Sanchez. Cabrera hit .305 with 18 homers and and 87 RBIs in 155 games last season.

This seems to be a solid pickup to benefit both sides, as the Royals are getting younger (not that Cabrera is old) and want to try out homegrown players, and Sanchez, 28, would fit in nicely to a struggling Royals team.

http://content.usatoday.com/communities/dailypitch/post/2011/11/giants-melky-cabrera-trade-royals-jonathan-sanchez/1

Image courtesy of http://riveraveblues.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/12/Melky-2.jpg

Yankees Voices Not Silenced!

According to a number of sources, John Sterling and Suzyn Waldman will be returning to the Yankee radio broadcast booth for the 2012 season, with the Yankees returning to WCBS-AM in 2012. Both sides are looking into a long-term deal.

http://www.yankeesdaily.com/post/33675

My Picks For Awards

AL
MVP: Curtis Granderson-NYY
Cy Young: Justin Verlander (undoubtedly)-DET
Rookie of the Year: Ivan Nova-NYY
Manager of the Year: Joe Maddon

NL
MVP: Matt Kemp
Cy Young: Clayton Kershaw
Rookie of the Year: Craig Kimbrel
Manager of the Year: Terry Collins

All Hail, the New York Giants!

The Giants are in first place in the NFC East.

That is correct.

With the Eagles failing to be the "Dream Team" that everyone, (that is, except myself), thought they would be, the Redskins hitting a skid, and the Cowboys being themselves, the Giants are on top of the division.

With Eli Manning putting together a pro-bowl calliber season, the special teams being tremendously improved, and the defense, while not spectacular, getting it done, this team can be playoff bound. We'll just have to wait and see if they can build a lead and avoid a late-season collapse like in 2010.

While they may ALMOST lose games against bad teams, bounce throws off of receivers, and call some odd plays, the Giants are still winning.

And having a coach like Coughlin helps quite a bit.

Image courtesy of http://digitalgroup.info/wordpress/wp-content/uploads/2010/08/tom-coughlin.jpg

Therefore, I feel it is high time we apologize for ruling the Giants out of it before it started, accept that Eli Manning is a better quarterback this year, and give credit to Tom Coughlin, where it is well overdue.

Will The Real New York Jets Please Stand Up?

The New York Jets in 2011 have been erratic. They have struggled on defense, struggled on offense, yet somehow are sitting at (4-3).

But that, ladies and gentlemen, is third place.

With the "Core Four" of Mangold, Revis, D'Brickashaw, and Harris performing well, and Muhammad Wilkerson doing pretty good, who is to blame?

You could say QB Mark Sanchez.

I say, the entire team.

With Shonn Greene doing terrible through the first few games, although he has picked it up, LT on the bench, and Rex Ryan (gasp!) shutting up, the Jets seemed to have lost what they had last season.

Although they lost WR Braylon Edwards in free agency, Plaxico Burress has more than exceeded my low expectations from a guy who hasn't played in a few years.

So, where is the defense?

He wears #94 (formerly #92) and plays for the Patriots, (and folks, they were beat by DA BILLS!)

Yep, I'm talking about Shaun Ellis. The man Rex Ryan ran out of town by drafting Wilkerson.

http://blog.newyorkjets.com/2011/08/02/ryan-on-top-pick-wilkerson-hes-the-starter/

So don't be surprised if the Jets end up missing the playoffs in 2011. While it is still early, the Pats and Bills seem determined, and prepared, to hold off the competition for another two months.

Ladies and Gentlemen, it's time to BILLIEVE!

The Buffalo Bills are first in the AFC East.

This is not a prank.

Here we are in November, and the Bills are in first place, so why do they not get any respect?

As if a decade of losing can't be erased. With QB Ryan Fitzpatrick playing at an outstanding level, the defense MUCH improved from last season, and a coach-quarterback relationship like that of Chan Gailey and Fitz, they have a playoff-bound team. WR Steve Johnson; RBs Fred Jackson and CJ Spiller, a defense with Kyle Williams and Marcell Dareus, and a special teams until that is one of the best (Lindell, Moorman, and Brad Smith), they are truly a threat in the AFC East. They are not the 4-12 team of yesteryear, they are a threat, and they shant be overlooked. With the Jets struggling to find an offense, (or, for that matter, a defense), and the Dolphins being themselves, the Bills have a real shot at ending one of the longest playoff droughts in NFL history.

Courtesy of http://www.nfltouchdown.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/06/ryan-fitzpatrick1.jpg

It's Getting Hot In Here!

The baseball hot stove (trades and free agency) is one of my favorite times of the year. Trades, free agency, and firings everywhere you look. Some key moves have already been made.

The Atlanta Braves have traded troubled starting pitcher Derek Lowe (9-17, 5.05 ERA in 2011) to the Cleveland Indians. This seems like a low-risk, high-reward deal as Lowe has been very durable throughout his carrer and I can see him in a relief role if he struggles as a starter in 2012.
http://www.taiwannews.com.tw/etn/news_content.php?id=1748125

The Arizona Diamondbacks extended Manager Kirk Gibson and GM Kevin Towers through the 2014 season.
http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/nationals/arizona-diamondbacks-extend-contracts-for-gm-kevin-towers-manager-kirk-gibson/2011/11/04/gIQA7haAnM_story.html

The Washington Nationals signed former Yankee, RHP Chien Ming-Wang to a 1-year deal worth $4,000,000. He went 4-3 with a 4.04 ERA over 11 starts for Washington. http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/nationals-journal/post/nationals-make-chien-ming-wang-signing-official-wanted-a-team-option/2011/11/04/gIQAB0VrmM_blog.html If he can become what he was with the Yankees in 2007, this signing could be a home run for the Nationals.

The Diamondbacks re-signed former Mets C Henry Blanco to a 1-year, $1,250,000 deal as a backup. Blanco (.250, 8 Homers and 12 RBIs) known more for his defense than offense, had a solid season in 2011 at age 39-40 and should be a viable option to mentor Miguel Montero.
http://espn.go.com/mlb/story/_/id/7187736/veteran-c-henry-blanco-signs-1-year-deal-arizona-diamondbacks

Manager Tony LaRusa has announced his retirement at age 67. LaRusa went 2,728-2,365 in his 33 year managerial career. He ranks third all-time, behind only Connie Mack and John McGraw in wins. He will be eligible for Hall of Fame voting, (fittingly) in 2013, along with Joe Torre and Bobby Cox.

The Cubs have acquired former Red Sox GM Theo Epstein. Epstein, hired in 2003, was the youngest GM in baseball history when hired at age 28. This move was pure genius on the Cubs part. He officially was given a 5-year contract.

Image courtesy of http://www.flickr.com/photos/keithallison/5882688315/sizes/s/in/photostream/