Done?

In week 7, I began to write a post with the same title about the Dallas Cowboys (after losing Tony Romo) and Tampa Bay Rays (when they went down 2-1 going back to Philly) being done. Now after a 33-24 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, the Dallas Cowboys are looking DONE.

After getting a bit shaken up on a penalty last week, Tony Romo definitely wasn't 100%. In the last game at Texas Stadium, we all know that Tony may be overwhelmed of the ex-quarterbacks shoes he has to fill in his future as a Cowboy. So possible his brain wasn't 100% also. They may not of had Marion Barber (the wimp in Jerry Jones' mind), but Tayshard Choice wasn't half bad. He ran for 90 with a touchdown and he went undrafted! Remember they had Romo who went for 252 and had 2 TD's and interceptions both to Pro Bowler, Ed Reed.

The Cowboys (9-6) now find themselves on the outside looking in for the final wild-card playoff spot. They will root for the Bucs, Falcons, Eagles to lose Sunday and the Bears to fall on Monday (almost impossible but you never know, they're the Cowboys). Then they'll need to take care of business Dec. 28 in the regular-season finale in Philadelphia, which in the cold sounds immposible after this game.

The only thing the Cowboys have to laugh at is that Witten and Owens both had 5 catchers. Owens went for 63 and Witten, 87.

Interview With Yankees Superstar Joba Chamberlain

Joba Chamberlain is a right-handed pitcher for the New York Yankees. Joba pitched 15 shut-out innings in 2007. Chamberlain has a career record of 5-3 but his pitches come at you like lightning. Joba answered these questions at the Chrones and Colitis Foundation Dinner last night in New York City. Here is the interview:

Q: Who was your idol?
A: My idol was my dad.

Q: What does Joba mean?
A: It is a nickname.

Q: What is it like playing for the Yankees?
A: It is unbelievable.

Q: Who will have a better year: CC or Joba?
A: I hope we have equal years.

Q: Who do the Yankees have the best chance at getting: Lowe, Sheets, Burnett, or Pettitte?
A: Everybody. We're the Yankees.

Q: Do you speak to [Brian] Cashman during the off-season?
A: No, he's busy already. Why would he talk to me?

Were The Writers Write?

This month the Baseball Writers gave out some awards that will be remembered in history. Today Dustin Pedroia was named AL MVP who definitely deserved it. Justin Mourneau was his runner-up. Ever since the year when Mourneau and Mauer were voted for the most a couple of years back and Johan won an AL Cy Young that the writers favor the Twins.

Pujols. NL MVP 2005 and 2008. Albert put up fantastic numbers with a 357 average and 37 homers but Ryan Howard was the HR and RBI leaders and led the Phils to a title unlike Pujols who took his team nowhere. Howard was the real MVP but his average killed him.

Tiny Tim and Cliff Lee. The Cy's of '08. I thought K-Rod and CC deserved it . They took their team to the playoffs and put their names in the record books. K-Rod had the single season save record and CC pitched a no-hitter. Another writers mistake.

I was fine with Manager of the Year and Rookie of the Year but was irritated that the awards aren't based on the postseason results. Philadelphia won it all and Howard got no love by not winning WS MVP or MVP. The writers just like the sports need to change. Fast!

The Real Story of Basketball: Continued

Number 68 was not on the list and my tryout was only pain to my legs. Tryouts were tough and I guess I wasn't as good as the 14 names that are on the team. Many people, including myself, disagreed with some of the coach's picks. The coach took about 5, seven-footers (or maybe 5 foot) and totally changed the way he wanted his team to look. Coach Murphy said he wanted a ball-hog free team but of course took ball-hogs. Coach Murphy also said he wanted leaders but left out one of the best ones in town, me. I know I am not the best player on most of my teams but I could average good numbers, with a big impact on the team and play my 100%, never give up, pump up the team, and straight up, lead the team better then anyone. After this extremely exhausting tryout, I now know that I have to work harder to make next years team. There is a lesson embedded in this post. Never give up.

My younger brother us following my footsteps in being a leader. His hockey team was down 7-2 and he pumped them up and brought them right back in the game. It excites me to see that someone is following me and I always used to say he would be a better athlete then me just by watching me. He might already be faster and stronger then me and you might have to add leadership to that list. It feels good when someone looks up to you and I hope for his number to be on Murphy's list in the near future.

The Real Story of Basketball

"They made that shot look easy."

In NBA history, 38 players have won the NBA Finals MVP Award. Those 38 players have worked their butts off to help win a title. In the 62 years of NBA history tons of players have played in the NBA.

This week I tried out for my school basketball team. I was running over 15 laps a day and about 8 suicides down the court. I was aching and still aching with all the laps. When you sit and watch a professional basketball game and some 6 footer hits a three pointer, everybody says, "They made that shot look easy." I wish people could say that about me this week. I put so much effort into making this team like millions of kids who set a professional sports goal and well, it turns out they did it for nothing. I have a 1 in 35 chance in making this basketball team, if I don't make the team then I truly worked my butt off for nothing. If I asked Kobe or AI how much work it took to be where they are they would say, "Well a lot!" People who love watching basketball, but don't play truly don't appreciate how much hard work and effort it takes to put a ball in a ring. They think that is all basketball is. Those people don't think about the 100 laps a week and 45 suicides for every missed lay-up. If that was what my coach did I may still be running now. Say if you ran out to the park tomorrow morning and counted how many baskets you make out of a hundred you could be surprised if you only make 12. It is a tough thing that requires a lot of different things like energy and athleticism which some people just don't have in their genes.

Tomorrow at 8:00 AM, Coach will post the team on the Boys Locker Room Door with a list of 14 numbers on it. Hopefully 68 is on their and when you watch Lebron James tonight against Denver, think of how much work he put into his career and that one little jump shot from 12 feet away.

How Long WIll It Take 'Till We're Chanting Fire D'Antoni?

After a horrible loss, cursing, and even putting a former superstar on the inactive list, Mike D'Antoni hasn't exactly started off on the right foot. I can already picture me blogging in January when the Knicks are 1-50 and saying fire Mike. So how long will it take?

The Knicks suck and will suck and we all know that. Marbury and Curry are benched and they can score 10 a game even with their problems. I want the Knicks to be a better team but not get a new coach but as a Knick fan I have to think about my "Fire Mike" article but it won't be his fault. The Knicks are not a good team and it's not D'Antoni's problem.

More stuff is going to happen where the guys that matter, the players, not the fans (who don't matter really), hate D'Antoni because they do in week one already. But us the fans are just going to have to watch the Knicks suck, pick Hansbrough at number one and win a g-d damn championship in '10 where LJ23 is wearing orange and blue.

Interview with Darryl Strawberry

Darryl Eugene Strawberry (born March 12, 1962) is a former baseball player who isA popular player during his career, Strawberry was voted to the All-Star Game eight straight times from 1984-1991.Strawberry is currently well-known both for his play on the baseball field and for his controversial behavior off of it. Strawberry is now an announcer for SNY.

Q: Which was your favorite championship: Yankees or Mets?

A: Mets.

Q: Which was the better parade?

A: Mets. The Mets were all great.

Q: What is it like seeing your son in the NBA?

A: It is a great feeling. He is a great man and I wish him all the best.

Q: Who was your idol?

A: Pete Rose

4 Up, 4 Down

Sorry but another curse has struck this blog. My NLCS selection, Brewers and Cubs (my World Series pick) are down 2 to nothing along with the other pick to join Chicago in the World Series, the Angels. My World Series Picks, one of my ALCS picks, and the NLCS pick are all down two. I hope you didn't put money down on the playoffs because of my picks. The Cubs have been a brutal disaster after making error after error, the Angels lost that game in the first last night, White Sox, YUCK, and last of all the Brewers, No No For C C. Even though I will probably jinx these teams but here are my new picks:

NLCS

Dodgers, 4, Phillies 3

ALCS

Red Sox 4, Rays 2

Manny gets his shot at the BoSox and wins a title in blue socks as the Dodgers defeat the Red Sox 4 to 3.

Playoff MVP's

NL: Manny Ramirez
If Manny keeps up these homers he is the leader of the Dodgers.

AL: Jason Bay
Bay has been hot and I think he is who Boston is depending on at the plate and in left.

Sorry Amy but I think you will have to wait another 100 years.
(Let's hope the jinx works)

Thanks For The Memories

THE HOUSE THAT RUTH BUILT

A few nights ago I had a dream about that I was a kid when September 21 popped up on the calendar in 2008 and it was all over. I thought about the title for this article to make you readers cry. I thought of titles like "Bye" and "But Its Over Now" from Rihanna's smash hit but it came to this. I was sad from the arrival of the historical Sports Illustrated in my PO Box where the title is," It's Gone: The Passing of Baseball's Cathedral." This is the same field where Mantle and Ruth and Gehrig and Maris and Jeter all stepped foot. They really thank G-d for wearing pinstripes. My first impression of the new Yankee Stadium will be "WOW!" and then "WOW this place has no history yet." My friend who dreams of working in baseball quotes, " The only reason this place is getting knocked down is because the Steinbrenner's wouldn't be able to live if the Mets had a nicer stadium then the Yanks." Who knows! It will be the saddest day in Yankee history when this ballpark is knocked down. Who knows who will get the last pitch and hit? It should be Mo and Jeter but you never know. It could even be George Sherrill and Brian Roberts for all we know.


You name it that, sport was played at the stadium. Boxing, football, and of course our beloved baseball. Some of my greatest memories happened at the ballpark like watching Boone jack the homer in '03 to keep the curse living and of course some of my worst memories happened out on 161st street like watching the Bronx Bombers choke in '04. I cried hysterically that night. As the last games have began to approach I got my last look at the stadium on the 13th of September as part of a double header against the Tampa Bay Rays. I almost cried walking out of their. The Bronx Bombers won 6-5. All 26 championships, the most of any sports teams ever, have been won at this historic monument. Once again Yankee Stadium, the Steinbrenner family, all the players and coaches, and all the die hard, Bronx Bombers fanatics who go wild when ever this team wins any stinkin' game the fans thank you for all the legendary memories that are unforgettable and will always be in the record books. The fans hope more then 26 championships come at the new Yankee Stadium.

Here is the new Mastercard commercial or what it should be:

Decent Seats to the last home game: $200
A Hot Dog and a Coke: $10
Souvenir Baseball: $25
Catching the last home run: PRICELESS

---------------- Now playing: Frank Sinatra - New York, New York via FoxyTunes

Interview With The New Knicks

Last night at the New York Liberty playoff game I got the chance to interview two Knicks rookies, Patrick Ewing Jr., the 43rd pick and Danilo Gallinari, the 6th overall pick. Ewing Jr. has already been traded twice from the Kings to Rockets to the Knicks. Here is the interview with the Hall of Famers son, Patrick Ewing Jr.:

Q: How did you play against your dad in the backyard?
A: I only beat him once and the next game I didn't score.

Q: What was it like being a Hall of Famer's son?
A: I lived a normal, regular life.

Q: What advice did your dad give you about playing in the NBA?
A: To play hard, play with energy and with effort.

Q: What is your tip to a pursuing player?
A: Same thing and to be good at everything and to work on everything.

Here is me interview with Danilo "The Rooster" Gallinari:

Q: How will the Knicks be influenced by the addition of you?
A: We will win more games, enjoy the season and the team and the fans combined will create more wins.

Q: What was the transition from Italy?
A: Not tough. Exciting actually, nice process. Now we are here to win a title together.

Q from Danilo: Will you come to Knicks games?
A: Yes.
DG: I guess we will see each other at Knicks games?

This Week In The NFL

This has been an amazing way to start of the year in the NFL! Two wonderful weeks of exciting football. My Super Bowl Prediction, the Chargers are 0-2 and my my Jets lost to a QB who hasn't started a football game since his senior year of high school. Two rookie running backs run wild and they are both on my fantasy team, Matt Forte and Darren McFadden (Pick'em up). Oh and by the way when the Bears lose, the Cubs throw a no-hitter in a neutral ballpark, (OR LIKE WRIGLEY JR.) Miller Park.

Tonight is the best MNF of the year when Dallas plays Philly. This could decide the division if they are tied at the end of the season. Tony "I Pick Browns Fans Up Who Are Stranded On the Side of the Road" Romo gets his shot at the great McNabb. You know this is primetime because T.O opened his mouth to take shots at his former QB.

So now to the win-less Chargers. They have lost in the final seconds of each of their games to Denver and Carolina. Rivers has been sensational and Sproles stepped up for LT but The King has no clue what is happening out in San Diego. Now San Diego have to play MY Jets and hopefully the Jets will knock them to 0 and 3.

I know I haven't but some people's fantasy teams must be struggling with Brady hurt so here are some pickups that you may need.

QB: Matt Cassell and Aaron Rodgers
RB: Matt Forte, Ronnie Brown, Michael Turner and Darren McFadden
WR: Eddie Royal, Isaac Bruce, and Antwan Randel El
TE: Tony Scheffler

Burnin' Up For October

Carlos Delgado could be leading the Mets to the playoffs by himself. With putting the Mets in playoff contention he has always made himself an MVP candidate. Delgado has hit 12 homers since August 1st with 5 homers in September. The red hot Mets are 3 games up on the rival Phillies with 17 games left. In 2007, the Mets had 17 games to go when their season began to go wrong. Delgado along with the rest of the Mets are confident that the Mets won't collapse. Delgado said "We think what happened last year is not going to happen again, and we're very confident that we can get this done."

The Mets play the last 17 games against the Braves, Nats, Braves, Cubs, and then the Marlins. Last year during the collapse the Mets played some easy teams after the Phillies including the Phillies, the Nationals twice, a one game series with the Cardinals, and the Marlins twice.

Is another collapse coming or will Delgado lead the Mets to October?

A Crazy Day In Sports

"Tom Brady out for the remainder of the season".

WOW!

With Nadal losing, Serena winning, Indy losing to the Bears, and Matt Cassell's the QB that will make major headlines.

NFL

After being hit in the first quarter Tom Brady went out with an injury on his left knee and will never return. The Patriots MVP didn't take a snap all preseason and took a few and is done. His backup, Matt Cassell has rarely ever played but he pulled out a win against KC.

Led by Matt Forte's 123 yards the second most by a rookie on opening day as the Bears beat the Colts, 29-13.

US OPEN

For a truer measure of redemption, consider instead Serena Williams Coming into last night's final, she hadn't won the championship here in six years or been number 1.

After Williams had finally put down Jelena Jankovic 6-4, 7-5 late Sunday night in one of the finest women's finals here in many years she was finally number 1 again.

In other tennis news Nadal after going down 2 sets to none yesterday, he lost the 2nd part of the match Rafa lost 4-6, 6-4 in day 2. Tonight is Federer vs Murray.

MLB

As the pennant race in the NL East could have been tied after Philly won game 1 and the Mets won game 2 of a double header.

After Toronto swept the Rays the Rays are only up 1.5, the same as the Dodgers.

It's Time For A Rematch

Last years finals is exactly the same in this years US Open semifinals.

Novak Djokovic against Roger Federer.

Last year Djokovic reached his first finals and lost to Roger, 7-6, 7-6, 6-4. Now that Federer is playing amazing it is really tough to say that Novak will win. As Andy Roddick says, "Novak's got 16 different injuries right now." Last year I was rooting for Novak Djokovic but only to see a different winner in Flushing (hopefully it is the Phillies across the street also). The article I wrote about last years finals made me begin thinking about becoming a sports journalist. Now in the 2008 semi's Djokovic is not beating Federer so fast. Roger is a superior player and I am looking foward to seeing him earn back his ranking at number 1 in the world by beating Rafael Nadal, if he can get past Andy Murray.

So my final prediction is Federer 6-4,4-6,6-3,7-6. Make your picks on the Open or anything like College Football, Football, and even the pennant race by emailing me at kingofsportsblog@aim.com

NFL Preview 2008

I have read some crazy NFL predictions like that the Eagles will win the division and get to the Super Bowl. That prediction was made by a guy on ESPN who gets paid to make predictions (badly). You readers know I know more then him so here are my predictions.

AFC East
1. New England Patriots, 14-2
2. New York Jets, 11-5
3. Buffalo Bills, 8-8
4. Miami Dolphins, 3-13

AFC North
1. Pittsburgh Steelers, 12-4
2. Cleveland Browns, 11-5
3. Cincinnati Bengals, 6-10
4. Baltimore Ravens, 4-12

AFC West
1. San Diego Chargers, 14-2
2. Denver Broncos, 9-7
3. Oakland Raiders, 7-9
4. Kansas City Chiefs, 2-14

AFC South
1. Indianapolis Colts, 12-4
2. Jacksonville Jaguars, 11-5
3. Tennessee Titans, 10-6
4. Houston Texans, 6-10

NFC East
1. Dallas Cowboys, 12-4
2. Philadelphia Eagles, 10-6
3. New York Giants, 9-7
4. Washington Redskins, 8-8

NFC North
1. Minnesota Vikings, 11-5
2. Green Bay Packers, 9-7
2nd Place, 3rd Place, or 4th Plnce. Chicago Bears, (either 10-6, 8-8, or 3-13)
4. Detroit Lions, 4-12

NFC South
1. Tampa Bay Buccanears, 10-6
2. New Orleans Saints, 10-6
3. Carolina Panthers, 6-10
4. Atlanta Falcons, 2-14

NFC West
1. Seattle Seahawks, 11-5
2. Arizona Cardinals, 9-7
3. St. Louis Rams, 5-11
4. San Fransisco 49ers, 3-13

MVP: Ladanian Tomlinson

NFC Rookie of the Year: Jonathan Stewart

AFC Rookie of the Year: James Hardy

Super Bowl XLIII: Chargers vs Cowboys

Chargers 28, Cowboys 21

Short Interview with Dan Plesac

Daniel Plesac was a pitcher with an 18 year career from 1986 to 2003. He played for the Blue Jays, Cubs, Brewers, Pirates, Phillies, and Diamondbacks. Today, Plesac works as a news telecaster for Comcast Sportsnet Chicago, co-hosting as a highlighter for Chicago Cubs and pre and postgame shows.

Q1: Who was your idol and why?

A1: Cal Ripken Jr. because he played a lot of games and every one of them.

Q2: Is this the year for the Cubs?

A2: Yes! It is by far the best team in 100 years.

Q3: What was it like playing in Wrigley Field?

A4: It is the neatest place to play. I only didn't like it as a pitcher is when the wind blew.

Q5: What is your most memorable moment?

A5: Pitching in the 1987 All Star Game.

This post is dedicated and in honor of my biggest fan Amy E. Thank you for a great day at Wrigley. Sorry about the Cubs.

Colllege Football Weekend Recap

As the highly anticipated college football season begins I was happy until my favorite team, Michigan, goes for a two point conversion down by twoo and it was, NO GOOD. This was a little weekend of upsets and a weekend for the two seed to be upset. The upsets include: #9 Clemson, #17 VT, and #25 Pitt.

The number two seed Ohio State did destroy Youngstown State 43-0 but their junior, running back sensation, Chris "Beanie" Wells took a hand off at about the three yard line, dropped the hand off and slipped on his foot in the third quarter. His feet slipped underneath him as he planted to make a cut, with the ball rolling free as he hit the turf. Before the injury, Wells ran for 111 yards, including a 43-yard touchdown run. OSU's Heisman Hopeful has yet found out when his return is but the team wouldn't need him against Ohio opposed to how important he is against #3 USC on the 13 of September where they are playing to keep their National Championship bid alive.

I was pretty impressed mostly with the highly overrated Georgia. They are worthy of a top 5 seed but not 1. Matthew Stafford looked wonderful and in eight carries, my Heisman selection, Knowshon Moreno, scored three TD's, a career high. For the first time in three years the number one seed on the AP Poll did not fall on week one.

Other news from around the league is that Coach Joe Paterno who started his 43 season at Penn State yesterday, tied Bobby Bowden for most coaching wins at 373. Also Appalachian State couldn't pull off another upset in Baton Rouge against the defending champions, LSU.

Look out for Mark Sanchez, USC (coming of popping his knee cap on August 8th and played sensational yesterday), Charles Scott, LSU, and Shun White, Navy, who ran for 348 yards in 19 carries with three touchdowns. White averaged 18.3 yards per carry and his longest touchdown was 87 yards.

E-mail your comments at kingofsportsblog@aim.com.

Interivew with Jennie Finch

Jennie Finch is an American softball player who pitched for the USA softball team that won the gold medal at the 2004 Summer Olympics, and is also pitching for USA softball in the 2008 Summer Olympics. Although she is listed on the roster as a pitcher, Finch sometimes plays first base. She is widely regarded as the most famous softball player of all time.

Q:Who was your idol?

A: Orel Hershiser


Q: What is your most memorable baseball moment?

A: Representing my country in the Olympics.


Q: How long will you continue to play?

A: Who knows Lord willing... hopefully a while!

Q: When did you start playing baseball?

A: 5 yrs old

Q: What would you say to a young athlete about becoming great?

A: Practice hard and have fun!

Q: How did you get started in professional softball?

A: They contacted me about playing... it was a dream come true!

Q: What are the keys to success?

A: Dedication, practice, hard work, competitiveness!

Q: Who was your best opponent?

A: Japan

Now That's A Comeback

Bottom of the eighth inning after the Philadelphia Phillies pulled Cole Hamels who threw a gem. Ryan Madson came in and Mike Fontenot hit a pinch-hit home run and the score is 4-2. Then Alfonso Soriano doubled and then before you know it Chad Durbin's in and Aramis Ramirez is at the plate with the bases loaded. Shane Victirino didn't even move. Ramirez destroyed the ball 389 feet. Aramis now has 99 RBI's and is an NL MVP candidate. Like I said yesterday, the fans at Wrigley won't give up until they win.

Cubs could give the KO to the Phils this series with the momentum they have. I get to see the Cubbies on Sunday.

As October Approaches Soon, Who's In and Who's Out

I made my predictions on the site before the season had began and now I will redo then as we come to the end.

American League

American League East: Boston Red Sox

The Red Sox are only 3.5 games out with a lot of games to still be played and I think last night's win will carry to winning the division.

American League Central: Minnesota Twins

The Twins have an easier schedule as they come down the home stretch and will edge out the White Sox.

American League West: Anaheim Angels

It isn't even close in this division and it wasn't since May.

American League Wild Card: Tampa Bay Rays

With a narrow and lucky finish, unlike the '07 Mets, they choke and become the wild card team.

National League

National League East: Philadelphia Phillies

The Phils are a half game out and are going to sneak out with the division again.

National League Central: Chicago Cubs

The Cubs have really had a remarkable season and I think the players and fans courage with a mix of Lou Piniella the Cubs could go all the way.

National League West: Arizona Diamondbacks

At first I predicted them to struggle and Andruw Jones to hit 40 and I was way off. The Dodgers have lost 6 in a row and have knocked them selves out of the playoffs.

National League Wild Card: Milwaukee Brewers

This is a remarkable wild card team. CC Sabathia was a great pick up and this team is good enough to face the other wild card team in the World Series.

Playoffs (match ups are due to change)

Division Series

Angels vs Rays

3 2

The Rays put a hell of a run together but K-Rod is to good and if it is one to nothing in the eighth and he comes in it is over.

Red Sox vs Twins

3-0

The Twins got lucky that Detroit wasn't that good and that CC was traded but they got lucky in making it to the playoffs and they go home losing 3-0.

Phillies vs Brewers

1-3

Prince jacks a couple and they are on their way.

Cubs vs Diamondbacks

3-1

Due to a snowstorm in Chicago the series is canceled and is played in the clubhouse as a Rock-Paper-Scissors NLDS. Webb's fastrock wins them one and that all. Just Kidding! Cubs destroy but lose one because of mistakes in the bullpen.

Championship Series

Red Sox vs Angels

3-4

In the closest series of all-time Anaheim wins 4-3. In the 15th inning of game 7 a guy named Chone Figgins rips a triple and then Vlad with to out hits a base hit up the middle and it's over.

Cubs vs Brewers

4-2

The BrewCrew showed their youth to much and lost to the Cubbies.

World Series

Cubs vs Angels

Result: Cubs 4, Angels 3

The Hundred Year streak is OVER! Can you believe it?!?! Fans crowd the field like the old days, tears in the players eyes, and the city, WOW!

AL MVP: Carlos Quentin

NL MVP: Chase Utley

AL Cy Young: Cliff Lee

NL Cy Young: Brandon Webb

AL ROTY: Evan Longoria

NL ROTY: Geovanny Soto

AL Manager of the Year: Joe Madden

NL Manager of the Year: Lou Piniella

The Supreme Team

I couldn’t watch the Dream Team but I feel like I am by watching the Redeem or maybe even the Supreme Team. They played Australia this morning at 8:00 AM ET and wrecked them. The largest lead of the game was 32 and they won 116-85. USA came out strong in the second half with a 14-0 run which was cut by a Patrick Mills three (who scored 20)and were only up one in the first quarter. The team knows that they can’t expect a first half knockout because they have to wear teams out. Three three pointers changed the momentum of this game. To end the first half as the USA was up 9 Deron Williams hit a buzzer beater three then in the second half Kobe and then Melo hit three pointers to make it suddenly an 18 point game. USA now meets the winner of Argentina/Greece. Argentina has played well could they possibly give them a fight? As the US team gets closer to gold listen to the luck they have, Kobe’s birthday would be the day before the finals and Michael Redd’s birthday is on the finals. In the victory Kobe and Lebron combined for 39 points and 15 boards as LJ had a double-double.

The United States dominated them in every statistic. Australia was out rebounded 58-27 and every other stat. Literally! As the gold comes closer for us watch them play on Friday for the chance to get to the Finals.

Get Ready For The Open, The Seeds Are In

Rafael Nadal and Ana Ivanovic, both ranked world number one, have been named as the top seeds for the US Open which begins at Flushing Meadows on Monday. It is the first time that Spaniard Nadal, who replaced Roger Federer at the top of the men's rankings on Monday, has been the top seed at a grand-slam tournament even though Nadal could have always been the better player.

Federer, who has won the US Open in each of the past four years, is seeded second, the first time he has not been the top seed in a grand slam since the Australian Open of 2004.Novak Djokovic, champion of the Australian Open and runner-up to Federer last year, and David Ferrer four. Roddick was seeded eighth and James Blake, who beat Federer at Beijing, was ninth.

On the womens side Jelena Jankovic at number two. Former champion Svetlana Kuznetsova of Russia is seeded three, ahead of Serena Williams. Olympic champion Elena Dementieva is seeded fifth, with French Open and Olympic Games runner-up Dinara Safina sixth and Wimbledon champion Venus Williams at seven. The last two U.S. Open women's champions are out of the upcoming tournament -Justine Henin retired and Maria Sharapova is injured.

How Do You Like That?

After leading the Bears to the Super Bowl XLII, Rex Grossman is no longer the quarterback of that team. Kyle Orton is the new QB in the Windy City. Out of Purdue, Orton is 25 and he played weeks 15-17 for the Bears last year and appeared in 2005. Orton won the competition without directing the offense to a touchdown or completing a pass of more than 17 yards. His five preseason possessions resulted in two field goals and three punts. Orton really deserved his chance after in his last year at Purdue he had 31 TD's and 5 interceptions. Lovie Smith finally had to put him out there over Grossman at the season opener against San Fransisco at home.

Here's the big question Bears fans are thinking about: How will the Bears do this year?

and Devin Hester the release of Benson the Bears could be contenders. The division is up for grabs. The Lions can play well but don't count on it. Green Bay with Grant and possibly Rodger's could win 10 or more but the threat is Minnesota. Even with With the addition of Matt Forte the good running back from Tulane and Kevin Jones from the Lions along with re-signing guys like Brian UrlacherTavaris Jackson's injury (he might be back Saturday and if not they have Gus Frerotte or John David Booty) they are fine because of one of the best running backs in the league, Adrian Peterson. Last year they almost made the wild card with a record of 8-8 but they'll got better.

Chicago Bears: 9-7 or at the most 11 wins and will make the playoffs.

Interview with Kristine Lilly

KRISTINE LILLY
Position: Forward
Height: 5‑4 (1.63 m)
Born: July 22, 1971, in New York, New York
Hometown: Wilton, Connecticut
College: University of North Carolina

U.S. National Team: The world’s all‑time appearance leader, she has stepped away from soccer to have a baby, due in July of 2008 ... She captained the U.S. Women’s National Team from 2005–2007 ... The only player in history to play in five FIFA Women’s World Cup tournaments ... Not counting 2001 when the USA played 10 matches and 2005 when the USA played nine, Lilly played more than 1,200 minutes for the National Team every year since 1991 ... She appeared for the United States in three different decades ... She scored in every world championship tournament she has played, except the 1991 Women’s World Cup when she was 20 .

Q: What was it like playing on the wonderful 1996 team with Mia Hamm and Julie Foudy?
A: It was great playing with Julie and Mia. Not only did we have fun playing on the soccer field but it was even more fun hanging out off the field and being friends.

Q: What was it like winning the Herman Trophy?
A: The Herman Trophy was so long ago and it was an honor. It is nice to be recognized for your achievements but it isn’t what I shoot for.

Q:Who was your idol?
A: My idol growing up was my older brother.

Q: What is your most memorable soccer moment?
A: I have a lot of great memories. When I was little it was the oranges at half time and when I got older winning an Olympic gold medal and the world cup in ’99 was pretty special.

Q: How long will you continue to play?
A: I will continue to play for as long as I can. Probably another 2 years. We shall see.

Q: When did you start playing soccer?
A: I started soccer when I was 6 years old.

Q: What would you say to a young athlete about becoming great?
A: I think if you want to be great at something you have to keep practicing. You can’t stop trying to get better. being great isn’t just a one time thing you have to constantly work out it!

A: How did you get started in professional soccer?
Q: I made the national team when I was 16 years old. Then from there I grew up playing as soccer grew to be more and more popular. The women’s pro league started in ’01 and then ended in ’03 and now it is coming back in ’09 so it is great that the opportunity will be there for many young girls.

Q: What are the keys to success?
A: Working hard and dedicating yourself to something and having fun.

Q: Who was your best opponent?
A: Pretty much all the countries were great opponents. You can’t take anyone lightly.

Q: What was your most memorable goal?
A: I think my first goal on the national team was pretty memorable.

I'm Back and Phelps Could Have Won the Olympics...ALONE!

Look who's back! I am! Hopefully you enjoy the first article of the summer.

Phelps! 8! It sounds impossible. Michael Phelps has won more gold medals then anyone. 51.68. This number describes how long it took Phelps to set 7 world records and got 66 million people to tune into NBC on Thursday to see the 100-meter butterfly by one-hundredth of a second. Phelps could have possibly single-handedly saved the Beijing Olympics and many more to come.

Perhaps this legend who is become just as important as the President to come deserves to be covered in ticker-tape cruising down Manhattan because he is a HERO!

Bye, Bye, Mark Spitz someone else is taking up the spots in the record books.

Farewell

Today is a very sad day in the history of The King of Sports Blog. Today I the author, Brad, will be taking a temporary break from the reporting of your favorite sports news. My break from the job will start today and I'll return in mid-August because of summer camp. Don't be surprised to maybe see a quick blurb written by my pop up on the blog. Since this blog has been launched some amazing sports stories have happened like Kansas defeating North Carolina and Memphis to win the National Championship and the amazing round of golf from Sergio Garcia at the Players Championship or Big Brown winning the Derby. I hope you have enjoyed The King of Sports Blog 2008. To be placed on the mailing list which makes you eligible to be the first to find out when the first new article comes out leave a comment with your initials and your email address. Thank you for your support and I hope you keep reading.

Mayo for Love: The Trade of the Future

OJ Mayo was disappointed when the Miami Heat selected Michael Beasley who Pat Riley disliked. Mayo was picked by the Timberwolves right after. Two picks after, big Kevin Love was picked my Memphis. Then it began.

Five hours after the draft the Midnight Mayo trade was accepted. The rights of Kevin Love, Mike Miller, Jason Collins, and Brian Cardinal were traded to the Minnesota for the rights of OJ Mayo, Marko Jaric, Antoine Walker, and Greg Buckner. If Love is going to be great the T'Wolves got the better side because Mike Miller is decent and Jason Collins is above terrible.

Mayo was told by Minnesota assistant GM, Fred Hoilberg, that the 7 scouts were "blown away" by Mayo's skills. Why wouldn't they build around Mayo?

Twelve years ago, the Wolves drafted Connecticut star Ray Allen and traded him minutes later for Stephon Marbury. Two years ago, they took Brandon Roy and then sent him to Portland for Randy Foye and cash. They also traded Chalmers to Miami for two future second-round picks and cash. Clearly they don't learn from their mistakes.

The Latest NBA Trades

What a trade day?

First off Jermaine O'Neal of the Indiana Pacers was traded to the Toronto Raptors for TJ Ford, Rasho Nesterovic, and the 17th pick of the draft. Then later on in the day Richard Jefferson of the Nets was traded for Yi Jianlian and Bobby Simmons but it isn't official yet.

I think now that the Pacers picked up a point guard and center they will take Roy Hibbert or Danilo Gallinari.

For draft coverage visit ESPN or ESPN360.com at 7 PM Eastern Time.

Is Jerry and Omar Next?

The New York Mockery Mets are PATHETIC. Last night Jerry Manuel and Carlos Beltran were ejected for arguing balls and strikes in the Mets second straight loss. On Monday, King Felix hit a grand slam, the first grand slam by an AL pitcher in 37 years. If you didn't know he is the pitcher. You might think I badmouth the Mets too much but they are really just terrible.

After firing Willie and some of his staff, Jerry Manuel and Omar Minaya should be next. You can't possibly believe that Fred Wilpon, the owner, likes Omar because that is what Omar said about Willie and he fired his "friend".

Jerry Manuel in his Mets managerial career so far hasn't been great. They are below .500 and after last nights disaster to the worst-in-majors Mariners by the score of 11-0 making them one loss away from being swept means two things: Make more firings and you should have kept Willie.

Manuel may be the only manager the Mets got but there are managers on the market like John Gibbons and Phil Garner. Even if they are spending more money they need a third manager. They can't possibly think that Manuel can win another manager of the year in New York, right?

NBA Mock Draft

With the draft on Thursday here is my predictions for this years draft and possible trade and 2nd round superstars.

1. Chicago Bulls: Derrick Rose, Memphis

2. Miami Heat: Michael Beasley, Kansas State

3. Minnesota Timberwolves: OJ Mayo, USC

4. Seattle Supersonics: Jerryd Bayless, Arizona

5. Memphis Grizzlies: Kevin Love, UCLA

6. New York Knicks: Russell Westbrook, UCLA

7. Los Angeles Clippers: Eric Gordon, Indiana

8. Milwaukee Bucks: Joe Alexander, West Virginia

9. Charlotte Bobcats Brook Lopez, Stanford

10. New Jersey Nets: Danilo Gallinari, Italy

11. Indiana Pacers: DJ Augustin, Texas

12. Sacramento Kings: Roy Hibbert, Georgetown

13. Portland Trail Blazers: Brandon Rush, Kansas

14. Golden State Warriors: Kosta Koufos, Ohio State

15. Phoenix Suns: Mario Chalmers, Kansas

16. Philadelphia 76ers: Anthony Randolph, LSU

17. Toronto Raptors: Nicholas Batum, France

18. Washington Wizards: Robin Lopez, Stanford

19. Cleveland Cavaliers: Darrell Arthur, Kansas

20. Denver Nuggets: Joey Dorsey, Memphis

21. New Jersey Nets: JaVale McGee, Nevada

22. Orlando Magic: Mareese Speights, Florida

23. Utah Jazz: , Jason Thompson, Rider

24. Seattle Supersonics: Serge Ibaka, Congo

25. Houston Rockets: Donte' Green, Syracuse

26. San Antonio Spurs: Chris Douglas-Roberts, Memphis

27. New Orleans Hornets: Courtney Lee, Western Kentucky

28. Memphis Grizzlies: DeAndre Jordan, Texas A&M

29. Detroit Pistons: Bill Walker, Kansas State

30. Boston Celtics: Jamont Gordon, Mississippi State

POSSIBLE TRADE
Dwayne Wade traded for the number 1 pick (Derrick Rose giving Miami the 1 and 2 pick). Wade grew up in Chicago, idolized Jordan, and went to Marquette. Rose also idolized MJ and wants his number in the Windy City but D-Wade is a better fit then Rose because you don't have to wait for him to develop. Rose and Beasley would also make Miami a championship contender with Shawn Marion on their side.

SECOND ROUND SUPERSTARS

Drew Neitzel, Michigan State, San Antonio Spurs, Pick 58
Neitzel has been one of my favorite college players and one of my favorite teams might pick him and have one of the best drafts. Neitzel brings so much intensity and leadership.

DeMarcus Nelson, Duke, Boston Celtics, Pick 60

Is He A Future Hall of Famer?

Every sports fan has asked this question, " Is He a Hall of Famer?" Especially me! In this article I will clarify what active MLB players are going to be traveling to Cooperstown.

Curt Schilling: 216-146, ERA 3.46
Curt is a borderline Hall of Famer like many others. After researching guys like Bert Blyleven had more wins then Curt and he didn't make the Hall of Fame. Curt is a great pitcher and is a good candidate for the HOF.

Greg Maddux: 350-219, 3.11 ERA
Just like any pitcher with 300 wins Greg is a lock to be in the Hall of Fame.

Ken Griffey Jr.: .289, 601 HR, 1733 RBI
After his impressive 600th home run Ken Griffey Jr. making him 6th on the all-time list and 8 behind Sammy Sosa. Technically Ken is in 4th if you eliminate the steroid users.

Randy Johnson: 288-155, 3.26 ERA
His 4867 strikeouts speak for themselves and go along well with that World Series ring.

Tom Glavine: 305-202, 3.53 ERA
Tom Glavine is one of the most imitating pitchers of all-time. Once again a man who wins 300 wins is automatically in.

John Smoltz: 210-147, 147 Saves, 3.26 ERA
Sadly Smoltz's career can be over but Smoltz will always be remembered. You know how? Because you will see his face in Cooperstown.

Trevor Hoffman: 539 Saves, 2.77 ERA
Some people say he is better than Mo and I disagree even though Hoffman has way more saves but that doesn't take him out of this list. Trevor is a mentor and the leader of most saves ever.

Mariano Rivera: 464 Saves, 2.29 ERA
There are reasons why Mo is my favorite closer. Mo is clutch and has so many rings. Mariano is definitely a Hall of Famer.

Alex Rodriguez: .307, 532 HR, 1544 RBI
An A-Bomb for A-Rod! He may not be my favorite player but he is America's.

Derek Jeter: .316, 199 HR, 965 RBI, 4 World Series Rings
DJ is my favorite player and I have to stick with him. No matter what SI says Derek Jeter is the best shortstop ever.

Manny Ramirez: .312, 505 HR, 1653 RBI

• 2004: American League Silver Slugger	• 2004: World Series Most Valuable Player
• 2005: American League Silver Slugger	• 2006: American League Silver Slugger

Those stats mixed with 2 rings makes a first ballot Hall of Famer.

Pedro Martinez: 211-94, 2.84 ERA
I know right now you guys are nodding your head but Pedro simply is a great pitcher and without injuries he would have 300. Pedro has won two Cy Young in the AL and one in the NL.

Frank Thomas: .302, 520 HR, 1701 RBI
Frank is such a great player and I always pick him up in video games but that doesn't matter. Frank would be so much closer to the Hall but he is a DH.

Jorge Posada: .278, 221 HR, 880 RBI
Hip, hip Jorge!!! Jorge is such a great leader and is such a great Yankee. He has won 4 rings and one more is coming if Joba and Hughes step up big.

Need more great years:

Ichiro Suzuki(34 years old): .331, 70 HR, 446 RBI
Ichiro's 2004 season sums up how great he is. He defeated George Sisler's single season hit record with 262. Suzuki needs to be traded to a winning team and win a ring and he will be booking a hotel in Cooperstown down the road.

Albert Pujols (only 28 years old: .332, 298 HR, 903 RBI
Albert has become injury prone and that may haunt him later on. Albert has at least 10 more years and is almost already at 300 with injuries.

Chase Utley (28 years old): .299, 119 HR, 451 RBI
Chase is not exactly Pujols but he is still a great player. He is having an MVP year and has a lot of time left.

Alfonso Soriano (32 years old): .282, 256 HR, 670 RBI
Alfonso along with Utley barely made my list. Alfonso has won 3 Silver Slugger's and I think one more is coming.

Carlos Zambrano (27 years old): 90-58, 3.39 ERA
Zambrano is one of my favorite pitchers and is so overpowering. Carlos is one of the best pitchers in the majors. He has many years left and will get 250+ wins.

Brandon Webb (29 years old): 76-59, 3,24 ERA
He won the Cy Young in '06 and is ready to win one now. Webb is on a good young team and will be the best player in all of baseball in a few years.

OVERRATED?!?!

This is really showing how dumb Major League Baseball players are. How is a four-time World Series champion, World Series MVP, eight-time All-Star and captain OVERRATED! In a Sports Illustrated survey of 495 Major League Baseball players in its June 23 issue, Jeter was voted the most overrated with 10% of the vote. Struggling Giants left hander Barry Zito was second at 9%, while Alex Rodriguez and Red Sox outfielder J.D Drew were tied for third with 7%. Mets third baseman David Wright and Red Sox first baseman Kevin Youklis tied for fourth at 4%. Jeter is one of the greatest players ever and is a lock to make the Hall of Fame but how is he overrated?

Last year Jeter was an MVP season hitting .322 with 12 homers and 72 RBI’s leading New York to the playoffs after going 94-68. Jeter is the captain of the best team in baseball and is also Captain Clutch.

Being named the most overrated player in baseball by some of his peers didn't stop Jeter from going 2-for-3 Thursday and scoring the decisive run in the Yankees' 2-1 win over the Padres, completing a three-game sweep and extending the Bombers' winning streak to seven.

When the Daily News informed Jeter of the survey results, he shunned it altogether.

"I don't want to hear about it," Jeter told The News. "I don't want to hear about it, I don't want to talk about it. All negative stuff I don't want to talk about.''

Jeter is an idol to many and is a great all-around person and player and this is insulting.

White Sox .vs. Cubs: The Windy City and Outrageous Manager Showdown

I never thought I would hear an ESPN reporter say this series can be a World Series preview. Two first place teams in the Windy City. The teams have a combined record of 86-59 and combined a wacko manager.

This is the most hyped up series of inter league play because its Lou against Mini Lou, Lou in Lu Pinella. Lou is by far the most hilarious and outrageous manager and across the city of Chicago theres a manager following in his footsteps coming to Wrigley, Ozzie Guillen. The two managers have big mouths, are obnoxious to the media, have won a combined 2 championships, 7 playoff appearances, and most interestingly 73 ejections.

People think the best record Cubs have been patient enough that a World Series is coming after a hundred years. I've seen a wonderful picture of a Cubs fan saying the greatest Cubs quote, " I don't have a 100 years."

Will the real baseball curse end in the great year of 2008?

The Beginnig or the End?

It's on! Fox Sports reports that Retief Goosen is accusing Tiger Woods of "faking" at the Open. Goosen, a two-time U.S. Open champion himself, seemed to accuse Woods of faking the extent of the injury when he winced in pain and limped around Torrey Pines on his way to a third U.S. Open title and 14th major championship."I think so," Goosen said Tuesday when asked if Woods was exaggerating the severity of the injury, according to a report from The London Times. "It just seemed that when he hit a bad shot his knee was in pain and on his good shots he wasn't in pain. You see when he made the putts and he went down on his knees and was shouting, 'Yeah,' his knee wasn't sore.

If Tiger was acting that he was in pain who cares? Tiger is a great player and this reminds me of when Jose Canseco told the world most of their heroes were on steroids. If he was acting what this Goosen think he can steal the trophy for lying? Two words can describe this: pathetic and jealousy. Any golfer would envy the worlds best player. This statement slightly put me on Goosen's side: "Nobody really knows if he was just showing off or if he was really injured. I believe if he was really injured, he would not have played."

Earlier, Woods announced that he would have season-ending reconstructive ACL surgery. The world's No. 1 golfer also revealed that he has a double stress fracture in his left tibia. Woods initially tore his ACL while running near his Orlando home following last summer's British Open. He found out about the stress fractures a month ago, as he was attempting to prepare for the Memorial Tournament. The stress fractures were caused by his rehabilitation from an arthroscopic procedure on the knee he underwent two days after The Masters.

Is this the beginning of a rivalry or an end of a career?

Who's Stoppin' Them Now

No other team will return as much talent as the Tar Heels. A number of other elite teams suffered through a defection or two or three. UNC did not. With the superstars returning how will anyone stop the Tar Heels. If you look closely all of the Final Four teams lost big time players: UCLA (Kevin Love, Russell Westbrook), Kansas (Brandon Rush, Mario Chalmers), Memphis (Derrick Rose, Chris Douglas-Roberts). If Carolina was a one seed this year how won’t they be next season with worse opponents?”

1. Injury

Ty Lawson hurt his ankle and he clearly wasn’t as great of a player. Like any great team you aren’t the same with hurt players.

NC got some good recruits like Tyler Zeller and Dexter Strickland. Unless there are surprise teams this year the Tar Heels are the overwhelming favorites not just to go to the Final Four, but to the Finals. Start printing the tickets for the 2009 Final Four in Detroit.

Interview with Sam Rosen

Sam Rosen (born April 4, 1948 in Ulm, Germany) is the primary play-by-play announcer for the New York Rangers(NHL) games on MSG. From 1982–84, he was the studio host on Ranger broadcasts, but was promoted to play-by-play in 1984, succeeding Jim Gordon, who had been the Rangers' TV voice since 1973.

Q: How did you get started broadcasting for the Rangers?
A: In February of 1977 my predecessor as the Rangers TV play-by-play man, Jim Gordon, recommended me to fill in for him on a Knicks game on radio. Jim had been scheduled to fill in for Marv Albert. I did some more Knicks games that season and at the start of the following season. The people at MSG then asked me if I could do hockey. I said yes. They listened to a tape of mine and the rest, as they say, is history. After several years as the fill in on radio and TV, I signed my first full time contract with MSG in September of 1982. I was the Host for Rangers hockey and Knicks basketball while doing play-by-play on other sports such as Tennis, Boxing and College Basketball. I would still fill in for Marv Albert on Rangers games on radio. In September of 1984 I was given the Rangers TV play-by-play job and have been there ever since.

Q: When you started did you think it was possible for you to broadcast for 24 years in New York?
A: You never think of a time frame. I was just thrilled to be doing the play-by-play for one of the teams I followed and rooted for as a boy.

Q: Did you think you would go down as an all-time great?
A: The only thing I thought about was trying to do the best job I possibly could for every game. I love the sport and the team and the games and I always wanted to transmit that to the people watching at home.

Q: How much longer do Ranger fans have to wait for another cup?
A: I think the Rangers have the foundation for being a good team, a playoff team every year. It starts in goal with Henrik Lundquist, one of the better goalies in the league. They have some good young defensemen, but like most teams in the league, could always use more. They especially could use a physical defenseman as well as a quarterback on the power play. They have a good combination of veteran and young forwards, but have to make sure they have some goal-scorers on the wings. So, if they don't re-sign Jaromir Jagr, they have to sign a free agent who can score. With all that and a little luck, they can certainly be a cup contender over the next few years.

Q: Besides the Stanley Cup win what was your most memorable game to broadcast?
A: There have been so many memorable games down through the years, playoff wins, milestone games, overtimes and now shootouts have produced thrillers. But besides the game 7 win over Vancouver to clinch the Cup, the game 7 double OT win over the Devils in the Eastern Conference final has to be the most exciting and most memorable Rangers game, I've broadcast. Though the game is most remembered for Howie Rose's great call of "Matteau, Matteau, Matteau", I thought I had a pretty good call as well.

Q: What do the Rangers need to win a cup and who do they need to go after?
A: As I mentioned in my response to question 4, I think the Rangers have a pretty good nucleus. They have some good young players like Staal, Dubinsky and Callahan, with more on the way like Korpikoski, Anisimov, Cherepanov and Sanguinetti. They have some quality veteran players like Chris Drury and Scott Gomez. Depending on how much salary cap room they have, the Rangers will probably target players like, Marian Hossa, Brooks Orpik, Ryan Malone, and Mark Streit among others.

Q: Who was your favorite hockey player growing up and who is your favorite player now?
A: When I was very young my favorite Rangers were Andy Bathgate and Gump Worsley. They were followed by Rod Gilbert and Eddie Giacomin. But Mark Messier is my all time favorite Ranger for all he brought to the team and the organization as a player and a person. My current favorite is Henrik Lundquist. I think his great competitiveness and the way he has made the lifestyle transition from Sweden to New York is nothing short of amazing. He has established himself as one of the top goalies in the league in a span of 3 very successful years.

Q: Who did you look up to?
A: I have to start with my late father, who instilled in me a great work ethic and thedrive to be the best I could possibly be. In the announcing field I admired Mel Allen for his great work with the Yankees; Marty Glickman on Giants football and Marv Albert was and still is the best on basketball.

Q: What advice do you give to a Sam Rosen wannabe and next season do you do any classes for kids or adults who want to learn from the best?
A: The best advice I can give aspiring play by play announcers is to be versatile and knowledgeable in many sports. You never know when a great opportunity may present itself and you have to be ready and able to take it and be successful. Another piece of advice I would offer is to put maximum effort into preparation. You may not use all the information you bring to a broadcast, but you'll be ready for whatever happens.

Q: Is there anything the NHL can do to make the game more exciting?
A: I think the NHL game has been very exciting since the league
resumed play after the unfortunate lockout of 2005-06. The NHL has
formed a competition committee which meets a couple of times to discuss
ways to improve the game. The emphasis right now is on speed and skill
and I think that's great. Any changes in the near future will probably
deal with more scoring.

Free Willie

After sitting through a double header at Shea I heard all the booing I need. Willie Randolph has been criticized and is a couple of losses away from losing his job as the Mets manager. The Mets with wonderful talent have been below decent. The Mets are 6 and a half games behind the red hot Phillies and are 33-35. The Mets, who were projected by many to go to the World Series, might not make it to October. They are terrible on the road where I thought they would play well because they don't have Met fans screaming and hollering at them. They aren't getting any better. I said to my father that they need to get into a fight to fire their spirits but they can't because then they would have to go to 35 year olds who haven't gotten base hits since the '90's (Robinson Cancel) and utility players who can't catch pop-up's (Damion Easley). I know this was their motto this year but they really need to start fresh which can only happen by getting a new manager, coaches, and a new general manager. Yesterday afternoon Sandy Alomar Senior who is two old to walk to third sent home Brian Schneider who was out by a mile which would have been the tying run. For your information 9 of the 25 current players are 30 or younger.

Interview with Dr. Mike Marshall

Mike Marshall (born January 15 ,1943 in Adrian, Michigan) is a retired
Major League Baseball pitcher.
He played 14 seasons (1967-1981, excluding 1968) for nine different teams.
Marshall won the 1974 National League Cy Young Award as part of the
Los Angeles Dodgers.

Q: What would you say to a young athlete about becoming great?
A: Whatever the sport, to become the best that they can be, athletes
must understand the science behind the skills critical for success.



Q: How did you get started in baseball?
A: While I played baseball as a youngster, I got started in baseball
when I took a Kinesiology course and learned the science behind the
skills of baseball.


Q: What are the keys to success?
A: The more that athletes understand the scientific reasons for why
they succeed, the more that they can succeed.

Q: Who was your best opponent?
A: Athletes should always work to become better tomorrow than they are
today, which means that they compete against themselves.

Q: Who was your idol?
A: Isaac Newton.

Q: What is your most memorable baseball moment?
A: Every time that I stood on a major league baseball pitching mound.

Q: How did it feel being the best pitcher in the National League at a time?
A: I felt that, had I known more, I could have been better.