The Mets Current State

Its been quite some time. The Mets last made the postseason in 2006, the World Series in 2000, and last won in 1986. They aren't close to winning anything now, hence, they need to rebuild.

With an infield of Ruben Tejada as SS, Justin Turner at 2B, and Daniel Murphy at 1B, the Mets need to trade franchise face David Wright move Ike Davis to third base.

But the rebuilding process is more complex. They MUST trade Johan Santana as soon as possible. With Mike Pelfrey, Dillon Gee, Jenry Mejilla, Pedro Beato, Chris Schwinden and R.A. Dickey (who will only be in New York until next season), the Mets will have a relatively young pitching staff.

The trade of Angel Pagan to the Giants means that the outfield spots will likely be filled by Jason Bay, Lucas Duda, and Andres Torres, unless the Mets can trade Bay soon.

The Mets need to unload their older players so that they can begin to re-build. All players except Dickey, and Tim Byrdak should be under 30 on opening day.

Bu there is also another.

Longtime relief pitcher Jason Isringhausen should return in 2012. I am openly biased toward old athletes, and Izzy's performance last season showed me he still has plenty left in the tank. He filled in as closer after the trade of K-Rod, where he picked up his 300th career save. Izzy was more vital to the atrocity that was the 2011 Mets bullpen than anyone there that full season.

So, why not let him return?

Hot Stove

The Yankees have hired former Cubs GM Jim Hendry as a special assignment scout. This move makes absolutely NO SENSE! We already have a bad GM, we don't need anymore!

The Diamondback have signed C Miguel Montero to a 1-year, $5,900,000 deal, and 2B Ryan Roberts to a 1-year $2,012,500, both received arbritration.

The Phillies have signed RHP Chad Qualls to a 1-year, $1,150,000 deal.

In a move that puzzles me greatly, the Texas Rangers have signed manager Ron Washington to a 2-year contract extention. He has brought the Rangers to two consecutive World Series. However, in two games last season when the Cardinals were down to their last strike, his pitchers failed, eventually costing the team a World Series championship.

How to Fix A Broken Bowl

The Pro Bowl. The NFL's own All-Star Game, filled with the best players from as many teams as can be voted in. It is a meaningless game, but I along with many other people, still watch it for the fun.

But it is filled with problems, and fixable ones at that.

The Pro Bowl is now finally back in Hawaii full time, so that is not the issue.

But, the best of the best players in the league never play.

Tom Brady and Eli Manning put up career years for quarterbacks, Rob Gronkowski set a new standard for tight ends, while Hakeem Nicks and Victor Cruz wowed the world with their exceptional years.

But none of them played Sunday because they will play in the Superbowl.

Had comeback kings Eli Manning and Tom Brady been able to play Sunday, the results would have been DRAMATICALLY different than they were.

As far as I am concerned there is only one way to fix this broken bowl...

...move it back to when it used to be, AFTER the Superbowl!

The Blowout Bowl!

The Pro Bowl. The game when the best (but not the best of the best-see a later article!) gear up for a meaningless exhibition game that is meant to please the fans.

In the first quarter, Larry Fitzgerald caught 2 Aaron Rodgers passes for touchdowns. 14-0 NFC. But Big Ben Roethlisberger found AJ Green to cut the score to 14-7, followed by a 74 yarder from Ben to Brandon Marshall to tie the game at 14.

In the second quarter, Jimmy Graham caught teammate Drew Brees' pass for 2 yards. 21-14 NFC. Brandon Marshall and Philip Rivers connected for a 29 yarder, and the game was tied once again at 21. Brees then hit Greg Jennings for an 11-yard pass to make the score 28-21. On the last play of the half, Rivers hit teammate Antonio Gates for a 27 yard touchdown.

The third quarter started out with a bang, litterally. Raiders kicker Sebastian Janikowski boomed a 37-yard field goal to give the AFC a slim 31-28 lead. Cam Newton came in to play quarterback, and hit Steve Smith (Panthers teammate) with a 55 yard touchdown. 35-31 NFC. But Brandon Marshall again caught a 47 yarder from Andy Dalton. 38-35.

The fourth quarter was the blowout. Vonta Leach ran in 1 yard for a touchdown, followed by a 3-yard touchdown pass by Andy Dalton to Brandon Marshall. 52-35 AFC. But they weren't done yet! Derrick Johnson intercepted Dalton and returned it for 60 yards. 59-35 AFC. The NFC tried in vain to come back when Cam Newton threw a 36-yard pass to Larry Fitzgerald, but ended up losing 59-41.

I'll admit it, sometimes the players didn't seem to try as hard as they could have, and the defenses were both awful, but in the end, it was a memorable and historic Pro Bowl.

And as of now, that's really all that counts.

Mike D'Antoni

In 2008, the Knicks hired Mike D'Antoni to replace Isiah Thomas as head coach. In each season, the Knicks have won 40-50 games consistently, but cannot seem to get on a good playoff run. The Knicks have the potential to be a great team with Carmelo Anthony, Iman Shumpert, and Amare Stoudemire, and are certainly in a winnable division. While this lockout-shortened season isn't the best one to use as an example, D'Antoni hasn't been a fan-favorite during his tenure and this collapse seems like it may put the nail in the coffin for him.

Hot Stove

The Phillies and OF Hunter Pence have agreed to a 1-year, $10,400,000 contract. Pence hit .314 with 22 homers and 97 RBIs, a career-high, with the Astros and Phillies in 2011. They have also signed OF Juan Pierre (.279 2 homers 50 RBIs and 27 stolen bases in 2011) to a minor league deal. If there was any chance that Raul Ibanez would return for a fourth season, these deals close the door on that.

The Giants and INF Ryan Theriot have agreed to a 1-year, $1,250,000 deal. He hit .271 with 1 homer and 47 RBIs in 2011 and earned a World Series ring with the Cardinals.

The Washington Nationals have signed RHP Brad Lidge to a 1-year, $1,000,000 deal. He went 0-2 with a 1.40 ERA and was 1/25 in save opportunities in 2011.

The Oakland A's have signed OF Jonny Gomes to a 1-year, $1,000,000 deal. He hit .209 with 14 homers and 43 RBIs with the Nationals last season.

The San Francisco Giants have signed P Clay Hensley to a 1-year, $750,000 deal with a possibility to earn $300,000 in incentives.

And finally, longtime Yankees catcher and future Hall of Famer Jorge Posada has officially announced his retirement. He hit only .235 with 14 homers and 44 RBIs in 2011, switching between designated hitter and first baseman, while playing part of a game as a catcher and part as a second baseman. I am deeply saddened by this announcement but also relieved that he is retiring a Yankee. The 5-time World Series champion was the greatest ofensive catcher of the 2000s.

Pro Bowl 2012!

On Sunday, the NFC and AFC will face off in the Pro Bowl. Besides having a number of talented personalities on their side, I will detail why I believe the AFC will come out on top...



The AFC squad is highlighted with QBs Ben Roethlisberger, Philip Rivers, and rookie sensation Andy Dalton in for Tom Brady. The running back crew includes Maurice Jones-Drew and Willis McGahee. With a LOADED receiving core, even without Welker, and a defense including Jets LT D'Brickashaw Ferguson.

The NFC is headlined by rookie sensation Cam Newton, Drew Brees, and Aaron Rodgers. With wide receivers including Larry Fitzgerald, and future Hall of Fame TE Tony Gonzalez, as well as a defense that includes Clay Matthews.

Even though the NFC is coming off of a victory, I expect the AFC to come out on top in the long run.

AFC FULL ROSTER
QB: Ben Roethlisberger (Steelers), Andy Dalton (Bengals), Philip Rivers (Chargers)

RB: Maurice Jones-Drew (Jaguars), Willis McGahee (Broncos), Ryan Matthews (Chargers)

FB: Vonta Leach (Ravens)

WR: A.J. Green (Bengals), Mike Wallace (Steelers), Brandon Marshall (Dolphins), Vincent Jackson (Chargers)

TE: Antonio Gates (Chargers), Jermaine Gresham (Bengals)

T: D'Brickashaw Ferguson (Jets), Joe Thomas (Browns), Ryan Clady (Broncos)

G: Ben Grubbs (Ravens), Marshal Yanda (Ravens), Brandon Moore (Jets)

C: Nick Mangold (Jets), Chris Myers (Texans)

DE: Elvis Dumerville (Broncos), Dwight Freeney (Colts), Antonio Smith (Texans)

IL: Richard Seymour (Raiders), Geno Atkins (Bengals), Paul Soliai (Dolphins)

OLB: Tamba Hall (Chiefs), Von Miller (Broncos), James Harrison (Steelers),

MLB/ILB: Ray Lewis (Ravens), Derrick Johnson (Chiefs)

CB: Champ Bailey (Broncos), Darrelle Revis (Jets), Jonathan Joseph (Texans)

FS: Eric Weddle (Chargers), Ryan Clark (Steelers)

SS: Brian Dawkins (Broncos)

P: Shane Lechler (Raiders)

K: Sebastian Janikowski (Raiders)

LS: Jon Condo (Raiders)

ST: Montell Owens (Jaguars)

KR: Antonio Brown (Steelers)


NFC FULL ROSTER
QB: Aaron Rodgers (Packers), Drew Brees (Saints), Cam Newton (Panthers)

RB: LeSean McCoy (Eagles), Matt Forte (Bears), Marshawn Lynch (Seahawks)

FB: Michael Robinson (Seahawks)

WR: Larry Fitzgerald (Cardinals), Steve Smith (Panthers), Greg Jennings (Packers), Roddy White (Falcons)

TE: Jimmy Graham (Saints), Tony Gonzalez (Falcons)

T: Jason Peters (Eagles), Joe Staley (49ers), Jermon Bushrod (Saints)

G: Jahri Evans (Saints), Carl Nicks (Saints), Davin Joseph (Buccaneers)

C: Ryan Kalil (Panthers), Scott Wells (Packers)

Defense
DE: Jared Allen (Vikings), Jason Babbin (Eagles), Julius Peppers (Bears)

IL: Jay Ratliff (Cowboys), Justin Smith (49ers), B.J. Rajj (Packers)

OLB: Clay Matthews, III (Packers), DeMarcus Ware (Cowboys), Chad Greenway (Vikings)

ILB/MLB: Patrick Willis (49ers), London Fletcher (Redskins)

CB: Charles Woodson (Packers), Brandon Browner (Seahawks), Charles Tillman (Bears)

FS: Earl Thomas (Seahawks), Kam Chancellor (Seahawks)

SS: Adrian Wilson (Cardinals)

P: Andy Lee (49ers)

K: David Akers (49ers)

KR: Patrick Peterson (Cardinals)

ST: Corey Graham (Bears)

LS: Brian Jennings (49ers)

That means that the four members of the New York Jets will be New York's only representatives in the Pro Bowl, as the Giants will rest for the Super Bowl and the no Bills have been selected. That being said, as previously stated, I believe that the AFC will win this year.

BREAKING HOT STOVE REPORT!!!!!!!

Prince Fielder has agreed to a 9-year, $214,000,000 deal with the Detroit Tigers.

Tim Lincecum has signed a 2-year, $40,500,000 deal.

The Oakland A's have agreed a 1-year deal with former Yankees RHP Bartolo Colon. He was 8-10 with a 4.00 ERA in 2011.

The Blue Jays have signed Omar Vizquel to a 1-year deal. He turns 45 in April. He hit .251 with 7 doubles and 8 RBIs in 2011.

Super Bowl Bound

It was August, the Giants had lost their key free agents, cut veteran guys, and suffered through a plethora of injuries.

Every analyst thought they were doomed, as did many fans.

I myself stood apart from the crowd.

I thought, (and I swear on the Holy Bible that this is true), about writing an article on how the Giants would go to Super Bowl XVI.

I didn't, and I regret that.

After their 5 game slide, even I had my doubts, and when they lost to the Redskins for the second time, I felt that they had no chance of beating the Cowboys a second time.

I was wrong.

The New York Giants are Super Bowl bound.

The defense DID step up, and played as well as one laden with the likes of Osi, Tuck, Kiwi,
and JPP should have. The offense, (esspecially Brandon Jacobs, kudos to him!), played EXTEREMELY well. Eli Manning proved once again why he IS ELIte.

And Tom Coughlin never gave up.

Not on his oft-criticized defense.
Not on his coaches, mainly D-Coordinator Perry Fewell and O-Coordinator Kevin Gilbride, who take the majority of the criticism.

I admit that even I had my doubts, but the Giants ARE IN THE SUPER BOWL!

And they face the worst playoff defense.

I've seen this story before, and so have most, if not all, of you.

And we all know how it turns out...

Revered Coach Passes Away

In 1966, Joe Paterno began his career as head coach of the Penn State, having been an assistant there since 1950. During his rather lengthy tenure, he coached Penn State to 409 victories against 136 losses (and 3 ties). A member of the College Football Hall of Fame, JoePa coached five undefeated teams and holds the record with 409 NCAA Dvision I wins.

However, in late 2011, former Penn State D-Coordinator Jerry Sandusky was arrested on child abuse charges. Paterno was unaware of the actions of Sandusky and received a plethora of criticism, eventually leading to his dismissal at the university after 46 years as head coach.

This is where it gets controversial.

As JoePa was not involved directly with any of the abuse, I feel he should not have been fired, though Sandusky should have been relieved immediately. When I first heard of the situation on Mike and Mike in the Morning, I immediately began to call for the firing of Sandusky, but NOT Paterno, as he did not have anything to do with this. The players at Penn State ADORED JoePa and showed him the utmost respect throughout all of this. They even went as far as to gather outside of his home in support of him.

Regardless, the way Joe Paterno went out, from his firing to his death, was an UTTER DISGRACE to the revered coach. The players and students supported him all the way, but the board of trustees apparently did not.

Championship Weekend: A Preview

In a few hours, we will begin the time known as Championship Sunday. I will now preview the games.

AFC
The Baltimore Ravens last won a Super Bowl when they defeated the Giants in 2001. Ray Lewis is the only remaining player from either team.

The New England Patriots last won a Super Bowl in 2004 when they defeated the Eagles in Super Bowl XXXIX.

The Pats defense is a HALLOWED SHELL of what it was then, but their offense is much better. Brady constantly puts up 30 or 40+ points every week and therefore the Patriots are used to high-scoring games.

The Ravens defense is outstanding. Led by 36-year-old, former Super Bowl MVP and 13-time Pro Bowl LB Ray Lewis and 33-year-old, 8-time Pro Bowl FS Ed Reed, both future Hall of Famers, it has been nothing short of amazing.

Their offense, meanwhile, has some worried. 4th year QB Joe Flacco has come under fire by his own teammates. Many analysts feel that he has been given too much credit and that their defense has carried them this far.

Regardless of what happens, I feel that the Patriots will beat the Ravens in a close game, and will advance to Super Bowl XLVI.

NFC
The 49ers have seen a renaissance under first-year head coach Jim Harbaugh. Led by Pro Bowl RB Frank Gore and former first round draft bust Alex Smith, whom Harbaugh has given a second chance to revive his career, they narrowly defeated the Saints and now have a chance to advance to their first Super Bowl since 2002.

The Giants, meanwhile, overcame a rash of injuries during training camp as well as a mid-season collapse to finish 8-8 to win the NFC East in week 17 and clinth the last remaining playoff birth. They rolled past the Falcons in the Wild Card game and defeated the Packers in the divisional matchup last week. They are as healthy as they will be this season and everyone will play today.

The Giants defense has been the subject of my wrath all season. Now, with Osi Umenyiora, Justin Tuck, Matthias Kiwinuka, and JPP, (whom I now refer to as the "Core Four" of the New York Giants defense), fully healthy, I feel that they are unstoppable when on the top of their game.

Their offense, however, is even better. Led by Pro Bowl QB Eli Manning, who really is elite. RBs Ahmad Bradshaw and Brandon Jacobs, who combine to form an all-together stellar offense, seems like it is now at its full potential. The Offensive Line is fully healthy and the entire team is as healthy as it has been all season. ALL IN!!

Combine this with the momentum the Giants have been riding ever since they defeated the Jets on Christmas Eve, and I can see only one ending.

The Giants will face the Patriots in Super Bowl XLVI.

NFL Offseason

Former Jets offensive coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has been hired by the St. Louis Rams as their O-Coordinator. I wish him all the best in St. Louis. The Rams have also announced that they will play one game in London each year from 2012-2014.

Holmes is Home!

Recently, a lot of talk has surfaced about Jets WR Santonio Holmes and many people saying he needs to leave amidst the Jets offensive woes in 2011.

Holmes has 4 years left on his deal and is due to make far too much money than any team would like to pay him, therefore, the Jets would be forced to pay a majority of his salary if a cut or trade were to occur.

But that isn't why he's staying put.

Despite his controversial, outspoken nature, (which the Jets knew about before they traded for him and subsequently re-signed him), he is the number one receiver for the Jets. If Mark Sanchez is going to get better, some consistency would do him a great justice. With a 34-year-old Plaxico Burress a free agent and a guy who (I feel) the Jets will not re-sign, Santonio Holmes would be the only receiver who has worked with Sanchez before when the Jets go into the 2012 season.

Rex Ryan is a very outspoken person and doesn't mind that many of his players share that mentality and nature, so I highly doubt that he would approve of sending Holmes packing because of his comments. Combine that with Sanchez's developmental concerns and the relatively comfortable relationship that they have, and I am led to one conclusion:

The Jets NEED Santonio Holmes back in 2012 and beyond.

Yankees News

The Yankees have agreed to a 1-year, $2,800,000 contract with LF Brett Gardner, thus avoiding arbritration.

This move was long overdue and brings back a potential leadoff hitter, a proven defensive outfielder, and a lightning rod on the bases. If Gardner can improve in his consistency, he will be getting a long-term contract soon. He hit .259 with 7 homers, 19 doubles, 36 RBIs, and 49 stolen bases, which tied Coco Crisp for the American League lead.

Ain't No Grave!

There ain't no grave that can hold this body down. The soon-to-be 50-year-old Jamie Moyer has signed a minor-league deal with the Colorado Rockies. Coming off Tommy John surgery, the southpaw turned 49 in November.

I wish him well in Colorado and I believe that he can be a solid lefty starter. My well wishes go out to him in his quest to make the 25-man roster in 2012 and I hope he can continue to Play for many, many more years to come.

A Sad Day

Longtime shortstop turned second baseman Orlando Cabrera (O-Cab) has announced his retirement after 15 years in the MLB.

He hit .272 with 123 homers and 216 stolen bases during his career and popped up to end David Cone's Perfect Game on July 18, 1999, which is still one of my favorite moments from the Dynasty. I witnessed his 2,000th career his last season against the Yankees and was truly pulling for him the entire season, partly in hopes that he would not end up retiring. He earned a World Series ring in 2004 with the Red Sox and was notorious for seemingly always ending up on the postseason despite playing on 8 different teams.

I am EXTEREMELY disappointed to see him leave, while he isn't anywhere close to being a Hall of Famer, he always led his team to the postseason and was a great leader. I will miss him and the memories he gave to me are ones that I will never forget.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hpURkEHecQg Copy & Paste this URL and look around 2:47 for the call.

Peyback!

My heart sank. It may have even skipped a beat when I read the erroneous news that future Hall of Fame Colts QB Peyton Manning was set to retire.

According to ESPN, it was actor Rob Lowe who tweeted the fake news, which has since been dispelled by his father Archie and ESPN analyst Chris Mortensen.

However, despite the false nature of the rumors, there arose in me a fire to compose this very article, which I have been meaning to do regardless.

Peyton Manning, the face of the NFL. The "posterboy" if you will. He has played for the Colts since 1998 and started every game from 1998 until the 2010 season.

He went down with a serious neck injury in 2011 which I believe was hindering his performance throughout the 2010 season.

Now, his health in question, and his ability to play again in serious doubt, many people expect Andrew Luck to wind up in Indy, including myself.

But contrary to the belief of some analysts and sportscasters, I feel strongly that he WILL play again.

He may not be the old Peyton Manning, and may never be that again, but he can still be part of a Super Bowl-caliber team which has been built around him for over a decade.

Hot Stove

The Texas Rangers signed RHP Yu Darvish to an astounding 5-year, $60,000,000 contract with an option for 2017. He was 18-6 with a 1.44 ERA and 276 K's in 2011.

The Brewers have avoided arbitration with former Mets RHP K-Rod. He had previously accepted the arbitration offered to him last month to the surprise of fans, sportswriters, and honestly, I think even the Brewers' front office as well. Thus, they have avoided a sticky situation. He could still be traded before opening day, however. He is 9 saves away from 300.

Hot Stove

The New York Yankees agreed to terms with RHP Joba Chamberlain on a 1-year, $1,675,000 contract. Joba went 2-0 with a 2.83 ERA in 27 games during 2011 before being shelved with Tommy John surgery in June. This move bolsters the Yankee bullpen tremendously, and if Joba can return in 2012 healthy for an entire season, he WILL be a force to be reckoned with in a strong bullpen. This move likely seals the fate of Luis "El Chicote" Ayala, as he will not return in 2012 if Joba is healthy. He did well last season, and he will find a job somewhere else as a successful pitcher.

OUT AT THE PLATE!

They have also agreed with David Robertson on a one-year, $1,600,000 deal. This was a no-brainer, as he went 2-0 with a 1.08 ERA in 2011.

Robertson and I at a telethon last February.

NFL Offseason

In a surprising move, the Indianapolis Colts fired head coach Jim Caldwell. Indy went 2-14 last season, and ironically, the two wins may have been what did Caldwell in. This surprised me greatly, as they didn't blow the first draft pick but didn't go 0-16 either.

Mike Nolan will become the new Falcons D-Coordinator.

The Buffalo Bills will likely not move to Canada!

Mike Martz will retire.

And lastly, legendary Hall of Fame QB John Elway has given Tim Tebow a vote of confidence.

Hot Stove

The Phillies have agreed to a 1-year, $15,000,000 contract with LHP Cole Hamels, thus avoiding arbitration.

The Rays have agreed to BJ Upton and David Price in arbritration.

Craig Counsell has officially retired. He was an influential part in the 2001 World Series and was on base on November 4, 2001 AKA, the Last Night of the Yankee Dynasty. He will join the Brewers' front office.

And last but not least, Tigers all-star DH Victor Martinez tore his ACL last week and could miss the entire 2012 season.

NFL Offseason

The first of a looooooong list of moves by the NFL teams will begin today as the firings and hirings of coaches is back on.

Jeff Fisher, former Titans Head coach, will become the new head coach of the St. Louis Rams.

Speaking of the Titans, they have signed TE Greg Stevens to a 4-year, $15,000,000 deal. This is officially the FIRST NFL offseason move in 2012.

The Jaguars have hired Bob Bratkowski as their new O-Coordinator.

Hot Stove!

Yankees have signed Hiroki Kuroda to a one-year, $10,000,000 contract.

RHP Kyle Kendrick has agreed to a 1-year, $3,585,000 deal with the Phillies, thus avoiding arbritration. This may put the nail in the coffin for Roy Oswalt.

The Brewers have signed OF Carlos Gomez to a 1-year, $1,962,500 deal, and LHP Manny Parra has signed a $1,200,000 deal.

The Cubs have re-signed former Yankee Kerry Wood to a 1-year, $3,000,000 contract. This move benefits the Cubs, Wood, and the fans, who have come to adore Kerry Wood in Chicago.

And the Rays have signed OF/DH Luke Scott to a 1-year, $5,000,000 deal with a 2013 club option. He hit just .220 with 9 homers and 22 RBis in 2011 with the Orioles, though he missed half of the season with a torn shoulder labrum. This spells the end of the Johnny Damon era in Tampa Bay.

Jesus Cut Loose!!!

Finally! The Yankees have traded Jesus Montero to the Mariners for Michael Pineda!

Unfortunately, they parted ways with Hector Noesi in the deal as well, and now really only have one legitimate pitching prospect in Banuelos.

I have long been under the impression that if Montero couldn't catch or play third base, he was of no use to the Yankees given that a rotation of older players will need the DH spot in 2012 and beyond. Now, the Yanks have read my plea and answered it.

However, Noesi was the future of the rotation. With "Always Junk" Burnout (AJ Burnett) now essentially a lock for the fifth starter position, it will be Phil Hughes and Freddy Garcia who will "duke it out" in spring training to capture the fifth spot in the Yankees rotation.

This move works out well for both teams and IF Pineda can establish himself as a quality starter, (meaning anywhere from third to fifth), this deal was a GRAND SLAM for the Yankees.

Thank you, Mr. Cashman, for pulling off an amazing feat. Pineda can become a solid starter in New York backed with MUCH better offense and therefore, better run support. I wish Jesus Montero well in Seattle and hope that his career will get off to a good start as a designated hitter there instead.

But my final point is this...

If (& Only If) Montero doesn't pan out, and cannot do anything other than hit, the Mariners might have their hands full with both him and a 38-year-old Ichiro Suzuki vying for time as the designated hitter.

It's ALIVE!

The disaster that is the New York Mets organization has proved itself alive this week, re-signing RHP Miguel Batista to a one-year deal earlier this week.

Now, they have re-signed OF Scott Hairston to a 1-year, $1,500,000 deal. He hit .235 with 7 homers and 24 RBIs as a bench player and spot starter last season, and provided a well-needed spark to the Mets offense until he was injured. His three pinch-hit home runs were one short of a Mets record.

This move brings back a proven, quality hitter with power, who has already become one of my favorite Mets. If he can remain healthy throughout the 2012 season, he can put up much, much bigger and better numbers.

Hot Stove

The Reds have signed former Phillie Ryan Madson to a 1-year, $8,500,000 contract. He was 4-2 with a 2.37 ERA and 32 saves in 2011.

Former Met Aaron Heilman signed a minor league deal with the Mariners.

Commissioner Bud Selig has been offered a 2-year contract extention by the MLB owners to attempt to persuade him to remain through at least 2014. He previously stated that he was retiring after the 2012 season. Selig is currently the second longest-serving commissioner in history.

The San Diego Padres will be sold to Jeff Moorad (take note, Mr. Wilpon).

The Beltimore Orioles have signed LHP Wei-yin Chen to a 3-year, $11,300,000 deal. They designated OF Kyle Hudson for assignment.

The Cubs have signed LHP Paul Maholm to a one-year, $4,250,000 contract. They have also traded RHP Andrew Cashner to the Padres for Anthony Rizzo.

The End of An Era

Longtime Baltimore Ravens Wide Receiver and former Jet Derrick Mason has decided to retire after 15 seasons in the league.

He had 13 receptions for 115 yards with the Jets last season with only 7 first downs and no touchdowns. He did not score as a Jet and was cut after being dubbed a "distraction" by teammates, having little production.

The longtime Raven had 943 receptions for 12,061 yards and 66 touchdowns in his 15-year career.

Mason in his brief tenure with Gang Green.

I wish him all the best in retirement.

The Coaching Carousel

And so it is upon us. That period in between the season and the offseason when the best teams gear up for a chance to go to the Superbowl.

But for non-playoff teams, it means that there will be firings, cuts, and trades galore to improve the team for the coming year.

The New York Jets have announced that Offensive Line Coach Bill Callahan has been hired by the Cowboys to coach their O-Line. This move was the right one for a Jets team whose O-Line was blatantly awful in 2011. Wide receivers coach Henry Ellard will also be let go. This may have something to do with the antics of Santonio Holmes.

Offensive Coordinator Brian Schottenheimer has resigned. According to an anonymous source, he was "shoved out the door". This move was neccesary and imminent.

However, it has been reported that his replacement is none other than Tony Sparano.

Now, I am willing to give him a chance, but he is NOT the individual whom I would expect to be successful in New York after his disasterous years in Miami. Granted, the Dolphins have been a disaster since Marino retired in '99, but still, he wasn't the greatest choice out there. We can only hope and wait to see what Sparano is capable of on a good team.

In addition...
The Raiders have fired head coach Hugh Jackson.

The Jaguars have hired Mike Mularkey as their new head coach. He will be the fourth head coach in Jaguars history.

The Colts have hired Ryan Grigson as GM.

A Plea to Albany (From A Disgruntled Mets Fan)

Five Years.

That's all it took for WOFX 980 AM to dump the New York Mets in favor of the Boston Red Sox.

As a fan of both the Yankees and the Mets, I liked to have the opportunity to watch the Yankees, while listening to the inferior Mets on the radio. As I can no more watch two games on television than I can listen to two songs on the radio at the same time, I searched high and low to find my local affiliate of the Mets Radio Network prior to the 2011 season, KNOWING FULLY WELL that the Mets would not be a playoff team.

I quickly grew quite fond of listening to Howie Rose and Wayne Hagin broadcast the Mets games. The insight they provided, as well as the enthusiasm they exuded when the Mets made a great play or won a dramatic game, was genuine, and the presence of their voices soon became a familiar sound as I looked forward to almost each and every game.

Whether the score was 3-2 or 10-2, the duo made every game worthwhile to listen to, and by the time the season ended, Rose's enthusiastic "Put it in the books!", (as well as his "Put it in the books already!" after a 14-inning Mets-Phillies game in May) became as familiar and welcome as John Sterling's "THEEEEEEEE Yankees Win!".

The Mets may not be a playoff team next season, or the following few seasons for that matter, but that doesn't mean that us local Met fans shouldn't be able to hear the team, (or the announcers), that we love.

Playoffs? Are You Kidding Me, Playoffs?!

Yes sir, the NFL playoffs are finally upon us.

On Sunday, the New York Giants will face the Atlanta Falcons in the Wild Card Weekend matchup at 1 P.M. The Giants will be without LB Mark Herzlich. Most of the others will play, only Justin Tuck is a toss up.

The Giants have the ability on offense, (as seen throughout this past season), to be able to overcome large lead defecits. I know that their offense can be a top one if it is at full strength on Sunday.

Now, the defense is laden with exteremely talented players and I feel it can be a top 10, even top 5 defense in the league when entirely healthy and playing at full strength. With Tuck, Osi, JPP, and Kiwi on the line, this defense can rush the pass and force the Falcons to abandon Matt Ryan and attempt to run the ball. If the Giants defense is at full strength, they will win on Sunday.

Jason Taylor

It is now official, DE/LB Jason Taylor has decided to retire.

773 Tackles (522 solo)
131.5 sacks (6th all-time)
6 Fumble Return Touchdowns (1st all-time)

I loved him, even as a long-time Dolphin hater. He was the consummate professional and deserves a first-ballot induction to the Hall of Fame. He was a longtime enemy of the Jets and their fans, and will be missed in the NFL.

Disrupting Dallas

In mere hours, the Giants and Cowboys will face off on Sunday Night Football for the NFC East title.

Today is all about DEFENSE!!

Eli Manning vs. Tony Romo

The Giants look to have everyone except TE Jake Ballard, INCLUDING DE Osi Umenyiora!

They need a Big Blue Wrecking Crew style defense, an electric offense, and alertness to defeat the Cowboys.

No mistakes.
No excuses.
No exceptions.

Andruw Jones

The Yankees have re-signed 10X Gold Glove winning OF Andruw Jones to a 1-year deal worth $2,000,000. Now they need to place him in RF and trade Swisher and his (lack of a) bat.

2011 Bills: A Season in Review

The Bills finished with a 6-10 record in 2011. Although the team was slightly better, it still needs major changes as they enter 2012 with the longest active playoff-less streak in the NFL.

Here are the free agents:
UFAs
Demetrius Bell
Scott Chandler
Tashard Choice
Reggie Corner
Andra Davis
Derek Hagan
Steve Johnson
Rian Lindell
Kirk Morrison
Roscoe Parrish
Dave Rayner
Bryan Scott
Reggie Torbor

While Bell, Chandler, Choice, Corner, Hagan, Parrish and Scott are possibilities to return in 2012, Rian Lindell and Stevie Johnson MUST, AND I MEAN MUST return for 2012.

Johnson imitates Plaxico Burress shooting himself after scoring against the Jets. Despite this stupid action, he must be retained.

RFAs
Chad Rinehart
Garrison Sanborn
Kraig Urbik

Urbik, Rinehart, and Garrison Sanborn should all return in 2012.

EFAs
Bruce Hall

A toss-up.

Grounded and Pounded: A Season In Review

The New York Jets are not making the playoffs because of a loss to the Miami Dolphins and now must make major decisions.

The Jets offense was AWFUL in 2011, and ultimately was their main demise. I will now list off the free agents:

Bryan Thomas
Sione Pouha
Jim Leonhard
LT
Rob Turner
Kevin O'Connell
Mark Brunell
Plaxico Burress
Nick Folk
Brodney Pool
Donald Strickland
Marquice Cole
Jamaal Westerman
Patrick Turner
Aaron Maybin
Matthew Mulligan
Ellis Lankster
Martin Tevaseu

Thomas, Pouha, Folk, Westerman, Turner, and Maybin will probably be back on short-tern deals. The others will not be back.

I see Sanchez beginning the season but if Greg McElroy is healthy he can challenge for the starter job if Sanchez is struggling as he did in 2011.


However, the coaching staff needs a shakeup.

I think that Rex Ryan is a great coach but some of his personnel need to leave.

Schotty will not return as OC, Mike Pettine's job is certainly not safe, Bill Callahan will likely go, Matt Cavanaugh should go, and Anthony Lynn's job is in jeopardy with the Jets lack of a running game in 2011.

Now, I could easily see Rex Ryan serving duly as head coach and D-Coordinator but it is not guaranteed.

The Jets major needs (in addition to quarterback), include guards, a tackle, a running back or two, and some new coordinators.

The Jets need a shakeup, and if Rex Ryan intends to make a Super Bowl run, they will make them.