Canty's Hanging Out

Well, Boley and Rocky are in the fold, and the best news of all is Chris Canty is still hanging out and will meet with the Giants on Sunday. I still think the Giants will be able to work something out with the 6'7" 308 pound monster, and I think it's because they were able to get Rocky Bernard at their price. The fact that Jerry Reese referred to Rocky as a tackle for their rotation, tells me Rocky didn't get starter money. What's more, the dollars on Sunday in FA are never as big as the dollars on Friday, and so forth and so on. I think the Giants will be able to add Canty to their DL at a price that makes sense for both parties. If Canty leaves, his price goes down, and he had every opportunity to leave after they signed Rocky Bernard, but he stayed, which means there must be some common ground. I'm expecting good news on the Canty front tomorrow, and then it will be time to start discussing the trade market.


UPDATE: At least 1 report with quotes from Canty's agent Brad Blank says that no deal was reached and that Canty will be heading to Seattle. I guess we'll know for sure come morning.

The Knicks Blow a Big Lead in Miami

The Knicks were way up until Danilo Gallinari accidentally elbowed Dwayne Wade. At that point the refst suspended all rules for Wade who travelled, hit people, did whatever he wanted and scored a lot. Nate started melting down, and even David Lee had a brain freeze on a play where had he performed it correctly the Knicks would have tied the game. Ridiculous game. Bad loss.

The Tortorella Era Really Begins!

Welcome back, Ranger Offense! Well, they finally played a game that was at least 60% Torty's teachings and at most 40% of their old style. The result: 6 goals! Cally scored, Zherdev scored, Prucha scored, Gomez scored, Drury scored someone else scored but I was on the phone. They only gave up 1 score - on a Kalinin give away. But they played hard and they fought! And when they were done fighting their coaches fought! I'm not kidding NHL security had to separate Schoeny and Tony Granato in the runway after the game. This was old time Ranger Hockey! Harry Howell!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Rocky Has Agreed to Terms

While Chris Canty dines with DL Coach Mike Wauffle, MG is reporting that the Giants have come to terms with pass rush DT Rocky Bernard. While he's a nice addition to the DT rotation, the hope here is this does not preclude the Giants coming to terms later on with Chris Canty, who is younger and better.


UPDATE: Rocky is official http://www.giants.com/news/headlines/story.asp?story_id=35726

Canty Flight Delayed UPDATE: Canty Has Arrived!

Apparently, Chris Canty, who was expected at the Complex around 6 has had his flight delayed and isn't there yet. Tom Rock is reporting that the Giants and Canty's agent have not talked money yet, but that's purely BS. Rock probably got that from the agent, and the Giants really don't like it when agents leak things before the Giants are ready to talk about them. Hopefully, Canty will get in soon, and Jerry and Kevin will work their magic.


UPDATE: Okay, Canty has arrived and it looks like he's there in time for dinner, which was supposed to be at 7:30 est. Now it's time for Jerry and Kevin to solidify that front four. We probably won't hear anything until tomorrow, but you never know. Sometimes these things happen really fast. Go Giants!


UPDATE: MG is saying it looks like Rocky Bernard is about to be a Giant. I really think they're going to try to get Chris Canty done, too. Go Giants!

The 2005 Draft Keeps on Giving to the Giants

Going into the 2005 draft, the Giants were without a first round pick, a fifth round pick and, I believe, a 7th round pick. They turned the 2 into Corey Webster, the 3 into Justin Tuck, the 4 into Brandon Jacobs and the 6 into Eric Moore. Now, they did have to cut Eric Moore, but Corey, Justin, and Jake are all core players for the Giants. But their take from the 2005 draft didn't stop there. They also signed Chase Blackburn as a UDFA. But that's not all: they later picked up 2005 Rams pick Madison Hedgecock on waivers. And now, today, they've added Michael Boley from the 2005 draft and could very well land Chris Canty later today, from the 2005 draft. For a team that only had 4 picks going into that draft, they sure have scored a lot of good players from that pool. Get Canty!

Rocky in Limbo

While the Michael Boley deal should be announced shortly, Rocky Bernard is still over at the complex waiting to see if the Giants will sign him. With Chris Canty coming in later, do the Giants risk losing Rocky by not signing him now, or do the Giants tell Rocky it is their intention to sign them both and try to get Rocky at a friendly price? Someone I talked with yesterday was not ruling out the Giants signing both Bernard and Canty, so this one is still developing. Obviously, Canty is the way to go if it has to be just one, but Rocky would be fine as a fallback position.


UPDATE: Boley is official http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/giants/ So the deal is 5/25M with 11M guaranteed.
Now LET'S GET CANTY!

Now, Let's Put an End to This!

Sign Chris Canty! Do it Giants! C'mon, add the big man to your front seven! You can move him all over, like Tuck! He can teach Kiwi how to use his long arms to block passes! Get him, G-men!

Knicks Blow Another Comeback

The Knicks were held to 11 points in the first quarter, and fell way behind early. They mounted a furious comeback in the 3rd quarter, but couldn't close it out in the fourth. The refs once again did a terrible job, but the Knicks also did a terrible job playing defense. Harrington and Hughes had big games. Nate came alive late, but still won't pass the ball to Gallo when he is inserted for O. the `76ers have now swept the season series against the Knicks for the first time since 1963.

Boley a Giant!

NFL.COM is listing Michael Boley as a Giant. The beat guys are all saying a deal is close. So, -perhaps a deal is done. The NFL would know just after the Giants. I think we have our Wil. Now let's get some DL's!


UPDATE: They have come to terms http://www.nydailynews.com/blogs/giants/2009/02/giants-boley-close-to-deal.html
Where there's a Wil there's a way!

Rocky in the Hizzy

Pass rushing DT Rocky Bernard is over at the complex now. Rocky, who's on his third contract and at the tail end of his prime would be a very nice addition to the Giants DT rotation. Once Robbins got hurt last year, the Giants didn't have any natural DT's who could provide consistent pressure up the middle. Rocky gives us that, and he might provide a lot of it when teamed with our DE's. That said, we may have a bit of a conflict: Chris Canty's coming in tomorrow. Unlike Rocky, Canty is just entering his prime and will command second contract dollars and lots of them. A 3-4 DE thus far in this career, Canty could turn into a monster in the Giants 4-3, and he's young enough to be considered "core" for years to come. So what do the Giants do? Hard to say, but I wouldn't mind it if they could sign both then trade some excess. Go Jerry!

Good Wil Hunting

Right around now, the Giants are visiting with OLB Michael Boley. Eventually they'll probably take he, and Rocky Bernard if he's around, into NYC, maybe Smith&Wollensky's for dinner. And it's a really good idea that they do. Boley is an ideal weakside linebacker for the attacking 4-3 that the Giants run. He's will be the best Wil we've had since Jesse Armstead, and may even reach the heights Jesse did as a Giant. We'll be getting Boley in his prime and not a moment too soon for those of us sick of giving up third and longs cause we can't cover TE's. Yup, Boley will get Pierce off the field on third downs, and that is worth a lot to the Giants. If all goes well, he'll take a physical and be a Giant tomorrow. Go Jerry!


UPDATE: The Giants and Boley may have already agreed on a 5/25M deal with 10 or more of the millions guaranteed. He'll still need a physical, if that hasn't already been performed, but it's looking like another great Jerry Reese/Kevin Abrams deal.

Canty Coming?

With Antonio Smith visiting Philly, and the Redskins having cancelled their meeting with Chris Canty in the wake of their mega-deal for Haynesworth, we might have a happy circumstance on our hands. The beat guys are saying Canty will visit the Giants on Saturday. At the right price, Canty could be a great pick up for the Giants - better than Smith. He is a huge DE with long arms for batting passes. We could probably move him all around the front set. And it would weaken the Cowboys, who need all of his money to pay Ware. Could be a really nice move if middle ground can be established.

Bernard and Smith to Visit

Okay, so Boley's already in and we could hear that he's signed later today. Rocky Bernard, the big DT from Seattle, who the Giants have tried to sign in the past is also expected in today. Cardinal DE Antonio Smith, who has good size but unimpressive #'s has also been invited in as of right now. No word on either safety yet. Good Morning!

UPDATE: The Giants do not appear to be Antonio Smith's first choice and it looks like he's gonna head to Philly first. In Giant related news, Kellen Winslow II has been traded to the Bucs for an undisclosed pick, and that probably means they won't be trading Braylon Edwards to the Giants any time soon.

UPDATE: Boley will be in tonight and will take his physical Saturday. Giant S James Butler is going to visit the Rams.

Boley's Coming

That Atlanta LB Michael Boley will be visiting the Giants "later today" has been leaked. If the Giants like his answers regarding his domestic violence charger last year, I'm sure they will make him a Giant. Boley showed big time flashes before the coaching change in Atlanta and could be perfect for the Giants attacking 4-3 scheme. DT and a safety to most like follow in short order. The DT could be Rocky Bernard, the safety could be either Tank Williams or Jermaine Phillips.

And Here We Go!

Good luck, Jerry and Kevin and GO GIANTS!!!!!!!!!!


UPDATE: Nothing from the Giants thus far, so I'm hitting the sack, but will be up early LA time. Update as news breaks, please. Thanks.

One Hour Till Open Season

Okay, there's one hour left until the Redskins can announce their 53 new deals. Interestingly, though, we've heard the normally stay at home on the first night Reese Giants might be making a move, probably for a linebacker, and possibly for the Falcons' Michael Boley by morning. We're also hearing the Giants might be busting an early move on a safety and a DT. We'll see.

The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight

The Rangers outplayed Florida tonight for two and a half periods, but because overpaid scrubs like Scottie Gomez can't score from point blank range, they lost 2-1 when Hank gave up 2 goals in 1 fricking minute in the 3rd. Pathetic. Fire Sather.

Quick Strike?

While I've been thinking the Giants would wait for the B and C markets to develop, I just heard that they might have something going much earlier in the process. I wasn't given more than that, and so maybe they're talking to a cut player like Coles or something, but suddenly I'm a little more interested than I was.


UPDATE: Checked a few places. I think it's a linebacker.

PHEW!

Jorge Posada just hit a loooong homerun in his first ST at bat. Great swing and that's a relief!

UPDATE: He hit a ground rule double to center in his second AB. The wind kept it from going out.

Yanks on YES

At 1:05 on YES, the Yanks will air their second ST game, and we'll see the pinstriped debut of Mark Teixeira. Nady will be in for Swisher, and Po's not playing, but otherwise it will be a standard Yankee line-up. They'll use lots of pitchers today, most notably starter Phil Hughes and reliever Mark Melancon. Plenty to watch, plenty to see.

Coming Down to the Wire

With the free agent deadline just over 12 hours away, Jerry Reese, on WFAN, raised the possibilty that Derek Ward could also be back for the Giants. Of course, price is everything, but that would be another pretty impressive bit of work by the firm of Reese and Abrams. I was sort of looking forward to drafting another young back this year, but if you can get DWard at a Giant friendly price, you do it and you don't look back.


In other Giant news, well, there is no other Giant news. Despite Albert Haynesworth's claim that the Giants were one of the teams lining up the sign him, he's gonna end up with the Skins, and just wants the Giants as a stalking horse. Beyond that, the Giants have not been legitimately linked to any of the big FA's and it looks like they'll once again look at the B and C markets and keep relying on the draft and their scouting advantage.

Knicks Get Jobbed

First of all, the two kids in the picture are gonna be good. Second of all, Nate once again took over and poured in 30. Third of all, they didn't get a call all night, and they needed at least one against a very good Orlando team. After getting way down, the Knicks came back powered by Nate, Chandler and Gallo. Dwight Howard was just a little too much, though, and with Orlando getting all the calls, it ultimately wasn't to be. I don't believe in good losses, but I do believe in good lessons, and this was one for the Knicks and for anyone watching their character grow.

Rangers Lose Another Shootout

New coach, same result. Torts was obviously feeling his way tonight and uncharacteristically rolled four lines instead of just three. The Good: Wade Redden had his best game as a Ranger and scored his first goal since game 3. The Bad: Gomez and Drury were still awful. Obviously, there's a lot to shake out here, and the young players like Girardi, Callahan, Staal and Dubinsky all had their moments and seemed to take to whatever's being installed. Hopefully, soon, we'll be rolling three lines and maybe getting something out of Gomez and Drury.

One Down!

As pointed out ealier today, there were two things we were definitely gonna hear about from the Giants this offseason, and we just got the first one. Brandon Jacobs and the Giants have apparently come to an agreement on a 4 year deal worth 25M. I'm not sure what the guarantee is, but I can pretty much promise that Reese and Abrams have once again locked up a top talent at a Giant and player friendly price. Now, it's just a matter of time before we hear about Eli's mega-deal.

BOOM!

After his walking in his first ST game AB, Arod homered in his second AB. Oh, and Madonna says "Hi" too.

UPDATE: The Yanks won 6-1. Jesus Montero went 1-2 with a K. Austin Jackson went 1-2 with a K and a 2B. Garcia, Robertson and S. Jackson all pitched scoreless innings.

Rangers Claim Mark Bell

The Rangers today claimed Toronto LW/D Mark Bell as the Maple Leafs were trying to pass him through re-entry waivers. This one's still breaking...

Girardi Sets His Rotation

So, apparently Joe Girardi has set his rotation for the season, and it looks like this:

1)Sabathia
2)Wang
3)Burnett
4)Pettitte
5)Chamberlain

And that rotation, my friends, is going to match-up with anyone's. The interesting decision here, and one that I favor, is putting Wang between Sabathia and Burnett. Wang's efficient power sinker creates a huge variation when dropped between CC's and AJ's swing and miss stuff. Then we get the same thing at the 4th with Andy's increasingly crafty stuff between AJ's and Joba's power repertoires. Pitching Joba 5th also goes a long way to limiting his innings. Then when you start matching up our 1 against their 1, our 2 against their 2, etc. it's just gonna be spectacular. The first ST game starts in about two and a half hours and there seems to be no radio or TV available for it. Tomorrow's game is on YES. Go Yanks!

Nuthin' Cookin'

With Free Agency less than two days away, it really doesn't look like the Giants are gonna be big players in it. Sure they might bring in a b or c level guy or three to shore up some positions or create camp competitions, but it really doesn't look like what they need is in FA. So, what do they need, other than a reliable kicker who can produce some touchbacks? On defense, they could use a rotational DT, linebackers, a safety and at least one more passrushing DE. On offense, they could use a #1 WR, OL's for the future, maybe another RB to compete with Ware, or another TE to compete with the other kids.

As of right now, it looks like Haynesworth will be, like so many other big names before him, a Redskin by around 12:01 am est Friday. After him, there's not a lot to like in the free agent DT market. There's not much at linebacker, either. Safety also looks like a it will be addressed in the draft. As for 4th DE, well Bert Berry is out there, and he'd fit, but, again, I think we're likely to hit that in the draft.


Offensively, there are no #1 WR's out there in FA, and a trade for Boldin, Edwards or Ocho Cinco will provide the Giants with their best shot to fill that need. I don't think they will make such a trade any time soon. They'll first want to see the result of Plaxico's March trial. So, if they make a trade at all, I think it will either happen during the draft or some time after the draft. Beyond that, there are no big ticket items on offense that will entice the Giants.


So, what is there to look forward to in FA for us Giant fans? Well, at some point they'll announce extensions for Eli and Jacobs, and those will be great news. And, they will sign some glorified camp invites, but for a super smart team like the Giants it will once again be all about the draft this year. And that comes in April.

See Ya, Steph!

The Knicks have finally cut their ties with Stephon Marbury. The buyout or cut or whatever it was, opens a roster spot, and ends and era and an error. Don't get me wrong, Steph was sublimely talented and had some very good games with the Knicks, but, he will be remembered as the most talented Knick whoever went his whole Knick career without winning a single playoff series. Thanks, I guess, and goodbye!

Nate!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nate Robinson came off the bench tonight to drag a sluggish, flat Knick team to victory with 41 points. He tied a Bob Mc Adoo record that was about 30 years old for points off the bench from a Knick. He's just been amazing both offensively and defensively for the past 5 or 6 games. He also had 8 boards and, again, just 1 turnover. That was just amazing. Lee also had a double double, and Harringont kept the Knicks in it until Nate exploded. Go Nate! Go Knicks!

It's Official: Tortorella!

It's sounding more and more like John Tortorella will announced as the new Ranger coach during a conference call with reporters at 4pm est. I'd assume that the Garden will also have some sort of formal introduction with a press conference later or tomorrow. You know, one of those things only the Garden can do;) We'll see if this works. If he's learned a few things from Tom Coughlin's example, he could have a long run with the Rangers. If he behaves like a martinet 24/7, he won't. Hopefully, we'll also hear that Sather will just be president from now on and that Jim Schoenfeld will take over as GM. Keep changing, Rangers!


UPDATE: Apparently the Rangers have the blessing of the Lightning and will anounce John Tortorella as their new coach in a little over half an hour.


UPDATE: The conference call didn't happen till 7pm est cause Tampa was trying to get compensation, but that got resolved and John Tortorella is the new coach of our beloved Rangers. The man is a badass and a proven cup winner. I just checked my head, and it seems that I've got RANGER FEVER again. Hopefully, he'll be a long term fit and get the most out of the young talent both at the NHL level and in the pipeline.


In further news, there was no compensation and Jim Schoenfeld will join holdovers Pelino and Allaire as assistants. I was hoping Schoeny would be the new GM. I now must wonder if Mark Messier will be stepping in as AGM.

Tortorella or Schoenfeld?

Stories are swirling that either Jim "Have another donut" Schoenfeld or John "Get the f*** out of here" Tortorella will be the new coach. Schoenfeld currently works for the Ranger as AGM, but coached most of the young player when they were in Hartford. Tortorella is a former Ranger assistant who went on to win a Stanley Cup with the Tampa Bay Lightning as their head coach. Both are sort of fiery, with Tortorella being ruthless when it comes to poor play. Torty also seems to have the same relationship with goalies that John Gruden and Steve Spurrier have with QB's. That will have to change if the comes to the Rangers. We should know any minute which one it will be. Go Rangers!

Breaking: Renney and Pearn GONE!

I said I wouldn't talk about the Rangers again until there was a positive change. Well, here we go. Word is Tom Renney and "Power Play Maestro" Perry Pearn have been fired. It's unclear if that is the extent of the firings, but it's a start. No news on a new coach, and it seems like the other big problem, Sather still has his job. I wish Tom Renney well, he's a good man with a pastiche of a sytem that doesn't work. Back later to update. Woo-hoo!

Knicks Lose

Hughes was rusty in his debut, and Wilcox looked like he's gonna help. But, the Knicks didn't get it done today. The Raptors pounded on Nate, and Duhon seems to be struggling with an ankle now. Gallo was out of the rotation with the additions of Hughes and Wilcox. Harrington went off, but it wasn't enough. They need to get the new guys worked in and get back to winning.

Garcia Breaking Out?

The two prospects drawing the most raves thus far in Yankee Camp are Andrew Brackman and Christian Garcia. Garcia has been star crossed since being the Yanks third rounder in 2003. Still only 23, Garcia has missed time with TJ sugery and leg injuries. In fact, given the time he's missed it's pretty incredible that he's as polished as he is. Chris features 3 plus pitches: fastball; curveball; and change. Last year, his first coming off of TJ surgery, he didn't have his pre-injuy velocity which saw him topping out at 97. If the fastball is back this year, he will fly through the system, and could even make a Joba Rules type major league debut out of the pen. He's already on the 40 man roster, so it wouldn't be hard to promote him. Finally healthy, I think he can break out just like Coke and Hacker did last year. Keep an eye on him.

International Free Agency

IFA, along with the draft, is the lifeblood of the Yankee System. 2009 is supposed to be the best year ever for Latin American international free agents, and the Yanks will, once again, be very active. Because of the economy, the Yanks may be able to really dominate the market, and they should. People think that IFA really only involved the July 2 signing frenzy for 16 year olds, but it's a much bigger market than that. For example, last year the Yanks signed Banuelos and Aceves in February. Similarly, they added Kelvin Duran, whose financial demands had prevented him from being signed when he was one of the top FA's in 2007, before the 7/2 date. The Yanks are basically always in the IFA market, 7/2 is just the highlight. So don't be surprised if the Yanks get something done pretty soon with an international free agent.

Knicks Destroy Raptors

Wilson Chandler had a career high 32 points, Nate had 26 and 7 dimes and Lee went off, too as the Knicks destroyed the Toronto Raptors 127-97 at the Garden. Nate could have easily had his 4th 30 point game in a row, but he was sharing the ball late and getting Chandler and Gallinari involved. The development of Nate, Lee and Chandler under Coach D'Antoni and his staff is nothing short of spectacular. And on nights like this, you begin to wonder if it wouldn't just be wiser to build through the draft and smart trades of expiring contracts then bet everything on 2010. Once they really learn how to play D, they're gonna be tough. Go Knicks!

Today's Moves

The Knicks didn't get rid of either of their big problems (Curry, Jeffries) nor did they get rid of any of their good players. By trading four low value players, they picked up two roster openings, got back a 2 and another athletic big in Chris Wilcox. Wilcox is the intriguing one. He'll be a free agent this summer, but if he shows he can play pick and roll and get rebounds at the same rate that David Lee does, he might be cheaper to keep. Hughes joins a few other Knicks who will be expiring after next season like Harrington and QRich. Now, given what's going on in the economy, those expiring contracts and the economic advantage Cablevision provides could make a trade an extension for a superstar or two make more sense starting this summer and going through to next season's trade deadline. So, I have to wonder if the plan is to try to get a piece or two before 2010. We'll see, but Walsh certainly didn't screw the pooch today. Go Knicks!

No Thank You

There's a sickening rumor going around that the Knicks might be trading Nate and Jeffries for over 30, under talented Kenny Thomas. Though the Knicks would be dumping Jeffries from the 2010 roster, it would be a catastrophically miss allocation of Nate. I really hope this isn't going down. A Nate trade has to include better talent or younger talent and a pick. SAVE NATE!


UPDATE: It didn't happen! After getting an extension from the league to keep working on it, the Knicks did not complete the trade. Nate remains a Knicks. So does Jefferies, but they still have time to trade him in offseason or an next year's deadline.

Knicks Get Wilcox for Rose

The Knicks have also traded the expiring contract of Malik Rose for the expiring contract of Chris Wilcox. Wilcox was once regarded as a possible star. It hasn't turned out that way, but he will play more the Rose was playing while he's here.


UPDATE: Anthony Roberson went to Chicago in the first trade, so as of right now the Knicks have two open roster spaces. Stay tuned!

Larry Hughes?

Looks like I'm gonna need more pictures of this guy as we have apparently picked him up for Tim Thomas and Jerome James. I say "fine" to that. We get a 2 who will expire in time and get rid of one of our glut of forwards. There may also be a Malik Rose deal going on. Thanks to Michael for updating me while I was out.

Down to the Wire

Just two more hours till the trade deadline and Nate Robinson is still a Knick. C'mon, Knicks, keep him and make him the PG!

Knicks after Larry Hughes?

As we approach the deadline, Frank Isola of the News is saying the Knicks are after the Bulls Larry Hughes, who recently turned 30. So far the inducement is Rose's expiring, but Isola speculates the the deal could grow to include Nate from the Knicks and either Noah or Tyrus Thomas coming back from the Bulls. If it's Rose for Hughes, fine. At least Hughes will get some minutes at the 2 and make up for the Cutino Mobley mistake. Hughes's deal would also expire in time for the 2010 market. If it grows to include Nate, I'm just not down with that. We already have three good young forwards if you include Lee, and 5 who need minutes if you include Harrington and Thomas. There's no reason to take back a forward without giving making them take at least Thomas back, and there's nothing in the deal worth Nate.

Batting 3rd and 4th

Joe Girardi, is leaning toward hitting Mark Teixeira 3rd and Alex Rodriguez 4th this year. Girardi like to go right/left up and down the order and feels having the switchhitting Tex between Jeter and ARod will give him what he's looking for, against righties at least. Interestingly, while Tex raked against lefties and righties last year, ARod didn't do particularly well against lefties. Let's hope he's back to killing both this year. It looks like Matsui will bat 5th and DH. They'll only play him in the outfield if there's an emergency. When healthy over the last two years, Hit-Deki has raked, so let's hope he can keep that up. Some arrangement of Cano, Posada, Swisher/Nady and Melky/Gardner will fill out the line-up.

Under 24 Hours to the Deadline

And the Portland Trailblazers are still trying to get David Lee. I'm not as committed to keeping Lee as I am to keeping Nate, but any Lee trade has to bring back youth and picks and also get rid of Curry or Jefferies. It will be interesting to see what Walsh can do here. While he keeps his eyes on 2010, he can't sell just dump his valuable chips. There has to be a team in place for LeBron and whoever to join. Go Knicks.

Jeter Speaks

Jeter in his annual first day of camp press meeting said all the right things. He said ARod made a mistake and has apologized and that it's time to move on. The Yanks will support ARod and Jeter said he was lucky to grow up with a father who was a drug counselor. He said that the other 103 names should remain anonymous. Then he pushed the conversation to current Yankee stuff. Good job!

Save the Nate!

With the trade deadline in about 24 hours and rumors starting to swirl it is important that the Knicks do not trade Nate Robinson. Now that the Knicks have a stable coaching situation, Nate has blossomed into a true difference maker for the Knicks. Sure, he's short, but he's also one of if not the fastest player in the league. Last night he made Tony Parker look like he was standing still on many drives. Nate has mostly played the 2 or come in in the old Cazzie Russell instant offense role, but when asked to start at point guard last week against the Clippers, he had the best night by a Knick PG since Walt Frazier in 1969! You don't trade young players who are improving as quickly as Nate is. Instead, you think of ways to exploit the advantages they give you on the court, but putting the right guys around them. The Knick need to keep Nate, make him the point guard, and go from there.

Rest in Peace, BVP

Brad Van Pelt, one of the greatest linebackers in Giants history is dead today at 57. BVP played right before they started giving number ranges for position groups, so he ended up being #10 right after Fran Tarkenton. Van Pelt played a hybrid safety role at Michigan State, but the Giants made him a linebacker and though he was skinny for the position, he made lots of Pro Bowls. Moving on in 1983, BVP missed the Super Bowl years, but he was big part of restoring Giant credibilty along with Harry Carson and Brian Kelley and he will be remembered.

Knicks Beat Spurs in OT!

First of all: DO NOT TRADE NATE! Nate went 32 and 10 (rebounds) tonight as the Knicks were able to get by the Spurs in OT. Lee had his typical double-double but fouled out at the end of regulation. Al Harrington shared the ball a little better, Wilcox made some plays and do did Duhon, Richardson, Thomas and Gallo. They're still not gett the ball to Gallo when he's open, but they did play their hearts out just the same. Big win.

Nothing Cooking

According to all the the regular reporters, the Knicks have nothing cooking for the trade deadline. Now, MSG has been leak proof lately, but it's a little hard to believe that they wouldn't do anything given their trade pieces and future aspirations. There are about 48 hours left.

Just a High Tech Lynching of a Latino Man

The witch hunt continued today in Tampa. At a press conference that seemed to be attended by 200 members of the media and all of his teammates, ARod read a prepared speach where he once again apologized, called himself an idiot over and over, said he and his cousin injected steroids from the Dominican Republic over a 3 year period. He said he stopped when he hurt his neck and when he learned there would be real testing. Then the media tried to attack the details of his statement. I continue to wonder where all these guys were when the steroid taking was going on? Why aren't they finding the other users? Why do they need him in a shooting gallery? The hypocrisy is endless.

My All Time Team

I've been toying with this idea for a few years. Anywhere, here's my all time team. We would play in the modern AL.

C - Josh Gibson - Yogi is my back up catcher, but I believe Gibson was the greatest catcher of all time. Not only was he solid defensively, but he may have been the greatest right handed hitter who ever lived. Enough people who saw him sure thought so.


1B - Lou Gehrig - the ultimate Yankee. Representing patience and power he is now known more for the tragic way he died than for the havoc he wrought batting behind Ruth. I'm not splitting them up.


2B - Rogers Hornsby - Bill James has spent a lot of time trying to show that Joe Morgan is better than than Hornsby. Sorry Bill, I just don't buy it. Hornsby was the only hitter in baseball who had a season in the `20's where his value was greater than Babe Ruth's. Joe Morgan is an idiot, but he was a great player, I just don't believe he was greater than Hornsby. My team isn't really gonna steal many bases, anyway, so Rogers gets the job.


3B - Alex Rodriguez - Sorry Schmidty, you got passed.


SS - Honus Wagner - Actually, I could play Wagner at 3rd if ARod proves to be better at short in Spring Training. Wagner was simply awesome, for a long time, and ironically, his training methods were heavily scrutinized at one point, too.


LF - Mickey Mantle - I'm playing Mickey in left cause this team has a DH, and his speed will play well in left. I'm also thinking of batting him and his huge OBP first in my batting order.


CF - Oscar Charleston - Charleston was a Negro League superstar who was defensively sensational (played shallow, let nothing drop) and was a tremendous hitter. Some observers thought he was better than Mays and DiMaggio, or at least on their level. Well, for now they are on my bench and Charleston plays CF.


RF - Babe Ruth - playing right and batting 3rd, the Bambino.


DH - Ted Williams - the second best hitter in history, if not the first. I'm not troubling him by asking him to field. I want him batting. And when he's not batting, I want him looking at tape and all the other new fangled things we have now to help hitter between PA's.


SP - Satchel Paige - Probably the best ever.
SP - Lefty Grove - Possibly the best ever.
SP - Pedro Martinez - Satchel's spiritual descendant, possibly the best ever.
SP - Roger Clemens - Representing the power righties.
SP - Randy Johnson - I'm taking him over Koufax because of durability.


CL - Mariano Rivera - won't have many save opportunities
SU - Goose Gossage - no crowding the plate!
SU - Sparky Lyle - crafty leftiness in the hizzy.


That's 16 and I have room for 9 more. Berra's the back up catcher. Willie and Joe are on the bench and spotting the OF's and DH. Jackie Robinson is my UT. That's 20. I think I'd like Koufax in my bullpen. That's 21. We need a lefty bat off the bench and I think that will be Stan Musial. I guess, Walter Johnson could handle long relief, and I'd like to have Seaver around in case Roger's groin acts up. My 25th man is between Jimmy Foxx and Hilton Smith, a Negro League pitcher who may have even been better than Satch. I'm not prepared to decide on that now.

Top 10 Yankee Hitting Prospects

1. Jesus Montero - Montero was a teenage power hitting terror in the Sally League last year. Though he played in a park that suppressed his power, he put up a system leading BA ang got better as the season wore on. He also did it while making substantial improvements to his catching game. His power is off the charts and his eye is good, though his walks need to go up if he wants to force pitchers into his happy zone, which is pretty big as he can get his arms out there and nail the away pitches. He could start moving this year if he gets off to a hot start in Tampa.


2. Austin Jackson - AJack is developing in fitst and starts. Because of his celebrated high school basketball career he missed a lot of development, but he has shown major flashes of being a big time hitter. He did well in AA as a young player for the league and was MVP of the championship series. Still, his home park held him down and he didn't have a very good fall league in Ariziona. But, he still has crazy bat speed and all the AA and could break out at any moment. Stay tuned, and don't give up on this kid.


3. Austin Romine - Another power hitting catcher with what seems like a good eye, but not enough walks yet. Like Montero, he clearly has a loud, Yankee type bat, and those are the kind of hitters the Yanks like to hold onto. He too could get moving if he gets off to a hot start in Tampa where he will once again split catcher and DH with Jesus Montero.


4. Bradley Suttle - Suttle made huge progress after a terrible fall season in `07. The swith hitter has shown some patience and some pop and put up consistently good ab's when he was healthy for Charleston this year. He needs to stay healthy and turn his power potential into now power if he wants to get moving.


5. Brandon Laird - I almost ranked him ahead of Suttle cause he's shown now power, but Suttle has a more patient approach and that's what the Yanks are looking for from their kids now. Laird's power, though, is impressive and he has made some progress at first, and may have to stay fresh at third and learn left field if he wants to stay with the Yanks all the way.


6. Eduardo Sosa - Since a lot of the more advanced prospects like Nacci, Sublett, Adams and others have been banged up or had other issues, we're going lower levels for the next few. Sosa is a pure CF who suprised a bit this year by showing more patience and a bit more power than anyone was projecting from his right off the bat. He'll be one of three OF prospects coming to the states this year who could really race up our rankings. Originally seen as a possible Johnny Damon type with a better arm, he may also end up with a better eye and better pop!


7. Kelvin DeLeon - DeLeon has an even bigger upside as a hitter than Sosa does. A right fielder by design, DeLeon is a big, patient, sweet swinging power hitter. He'll be coming to America this year and could even start out in Charleston. His power is now, and it's not very far behind Montero's. So far, he's also showing an eye and an ability to make adjustments.


8. Abraham Almonte - Almonte had a terrible second half last year, but before that he showed patience and switch hitting power. During his monster slump he hit a lot of hard outs, so the thought here is that a lot of it was bad luck. He'll probably have to start in Charleston again, but he could get promoted quickly if his AB's stay strong and his luck comes back. He may be the fastest player in the organization.


9. Carlos Urena - the man, the myth, the guy who's finally coming over. Urena has had a weird career. After lighting it up beyond all expectations during ST 2007, they sent him back to the Dominican cause they thought he was getting a big head. I'm not kidding. Last year he started out well, then got shot in a grocery store robbery. He was then the star of instructs this past fall and he's finally coming over. A natural CF he could start in Charleston in left, or start in one of the short season leagues. He remains one of the most talented prosects in the system.


10. Colin Curtis - Curtis is going to be in AAA this year and is a good outfielder who's shown everything but the power they've projected for him. They did some mechanical work on his swing to try to bring out more power, so we either will or won't see the fruits of that this year. He could get called up if he gets hot and stays hot. He has some patience and tends to take good ab's.


Others considered: Marcos Vechionacci, Damon Sublett, David Adams, Garrison Lassiter. This will probable be a big year on the hitting sides as more of the younsters and recent picks establish themselves.

Top 10 Yankee Pitching Prospects

1. Andrew Brackman - Brackman is either 6'10" or 6'11" and throws hard. Brackman was clocked at 100 a few times when he was in the Hawaiian Winter League. He also had mixed results in his first continual action since coming back from TJ surgery. His problem was locating his 4-seamer (95-98) and 2-seamer (91-94). The problem seemed to be that both pitches just move too much at times. The good news was that he was able to throw his hard boring curveball for strikes and his split change, which will probably someday beget a true splitter was also coming along. I really like Brackman's chances. The Yanks have been good with helping guys control their fastballs (see Chamberlain, Bruney, Betances) and Brackman, who was athletic enough to play hoops in the ACC should be able to incorporate the adjustments. He needs to be stretched out over the next two years, but, when he starts throwing strike one with that fastball, he's gonna come fast. They'll probably have him pitch winter ball this coming year to keep building him.



2. Dellin Betances - Betances is either 6'8" or 6'9" and he too throws hard. Working in the mid and upper nineties, Dellin cut his walk rate way down after coming back from a tired shoulder in the second half last year. He was even sharper in instructs, and a lot of people are expecting a big year out of Dellin. Simply put, when he's not walking them, they can't really hit him. We'll see how it goes in the FSL, but he could start moving fast and end up in AA for the second half if his walks stay down.



3. Zach McAllister - Zach Mac is either 6'6" or 6'7" and he too throws hard, but not as hard as the first two. Zach is a sinker/slider pitcher who produces tons of ground balls, doesn't walk anyone and doesn't give up any homers. A good case could be made for ranking him higher, especially after he dominated low and high A last summer. But Zach doesn't currently have a strike out pitch, and until he sharpens his slider or finds a way to switch levels with his rarely used 4-seamer, the low K's are gonna be a potential problem. But, he has lots of time left and will be very young for AA this year.


4. Mark Melancon - Melancon is ready. Short by Yankee pitching stud standards Mark features a mid-90's fastball, a two seamer that guys pound into the dirt, a monster curveball and a darn good change. He sounds like a starter, but he's a reliever who uses all 4 pitches to dominate everyone he faces. He's not on the 40 man roster yet, but that could change and soon.


5. Christian Garcia - Garcia is another big righty with electric stuff. His career has been truncated by injuries, but he's looked good in his latest comeback and when he's dealing he has a plus fastball, plus curve and plus change. He could come fast this year and might have to be used as a reliever on the big league team as he approaches his cap this season. He didn't have his fastball all the way back last season, but if the does this season, he's gonna be one of the big stories. He had some growing up to do, and it seems like he's done it.


6. Manny Banuelos - Manny is a 17 or 18 year old lefty the Yanks signed last February along with Aceves and two other pitchers. He has great pitchability and average velocity so far, but he does look like he's gonna fill out more and the velocity is projetable. Teen lefty's with three good pitches have to be viewed as great values, so until he shows he's not, I'm going to keep him highly ranked.


7. Jairo Heredia - Another young pitcher, he was terrific in Charleston last season. He's a righty but also features 3 good pitches and projectability with his fastball. After his successful GCL season in `07, Jody Reed compared him to Pedro, who Reed had known as a prospect. His performance in low A did nothing to dispute Reed's assesment. He'll be part of a loaded rotation in Tampa this year.


8. Arodys Vizcaino - Arodys is younger than Jairo, and that's basically the only reason I have him ranked lower. He's bigger and throws harder than Jairo, and has the same curve and change. He and Banuelos could be anchoring the Charleston rotation this summer or they could be in SI. He's another high upside international kid that was collected over the last three years.


9. Jeremy Bleich - I'm probably underrating Bleich. He was the Yanks sandwich pick in 2008 and after pitching well in the College World Series, went on to pitch really well in the HBL. He's a lefty with a fastball, curve, change and cutter. He is said to throw low 90's which is fine for a lefty and some in the organization see him as a shorter Pettitte, if so, I have indeed underrated him.

10. Michael Dunn - Dunn is a power lefty, whose fastball really exploded, touching 97, when they switched him to relief last season. Given his big fastball, and what may be the best slider this side of Joba, he could come fast now that he's in the pen.


Others considered: George Kontos, DJ Mitchell, Michael Dunn, Wilkins De Le Rosa (LHP), Eric Hacker, Brett Marshall.

Tex Arrives!

Mark Teixeira arrived in Tampa today to fulfill his lifelong dream of succeeding Don Mattingly as the Yankee first baseman. Tex said all of the right things, with all of the right force behind them regarding ARod and was already using the words "we" and "us." I suspect he will follow Jeter as captain once Jeter hangs em up. I know he has already started providing leadership.

Rangers Lose Again

The Rangers, embarrassed themselves on NBC today. They were down 5-0 after 2, and a couple of 3rd period goals by Korpi and Zherdev couldn't get them going. So here it is: no more about the Rangers on this blog until either Renney is fired, Sather is fired or they make a good trade. At this point I'm hoping they just call up Sanguinetti and Anisimov and others, and let Hank and the kids who want to play finish the season.

NATE!

Nate did it! He beat Dwight Howard in the Slam Dunk contest by leaping over Howard himself! That was crazy! What would not be crazy would be Coach D'Antoni giving Nate a shot at starting point guard after the break. He has a complete game playing point in Duhon's place against the Clippers and shared the ball better in that role than he does at the 2. If the Knicks hold onto him, and they should, he ought to be the point guard. He makes the team go. Go Nate!

Breakout?

Last year, in his first season off of TJ surgery, Mark Melancon used his fastball, curve and change to burn through A, AA and AAA. His numbers got better and better as he climed and this year he is a threat to make the big club out of spring training. Here's why it might happen: a full year of hard work after TJ, he might add a tick two to his 95 mph fastball this season. He're why it might not happen: the Yanks have a bunch of good relievers who are already on their jampacked 40 man roster. Mark is not, and might have to wait as a result. But, if he's ready, he's ready and they'll make room for him.

Suns Won't Trade Amare to the Knicks

The Phoeniz Suns have rebuffed the Knicks' attempts to acquire Amare Stoutemire. They will even go so far as accepting a lesser package to avoid reuniting D'Antoni with any of his old stars. Things could change; however, if Stever Kerr or others get fired before the deadline, something could be done. Down in Phoenix the fans and press are out for Kerr's blood, so things could change.

Rangers Lose a Shootout

Hank was great tonight, but he gave up a goal in the 4th round of the shoutout, and since his teammates are largely useless, he lost and so did they, 2-1. Nothing seems to change.

Yanks Sign Brett Tomko

The Yanks today in a pretty meaningless move signed Brett Tomko, who's been well below average for every season of his career. He could be AAA insurance in case the Yanks decide to keep Coke up in the ML bullpen. Who knows? It'll be bad news if we ever see him with the big club.

Giants Franchise Jacobs

The Giants today took the suprising step of franchising tailback Brandon Jacobs. It looked like they were gonna get a longterm deal done with him earlier, but something must have changed in the negotiations. They still have time to work out a new deal, but now if he does to FA and joins another team, that team will owe the Giants 2 #1 picks. Hopefully this is just a place holding move and the two sides can work something out.

And We're Off

CC Sabathia, AJ Burnett and all the rest of the pitchers and catchers are in Tampa today as the big league camp opens. Baseball is back! Of course, the Yanks still have some questions. Can Po catch? Will Melky or Gardner hit enough to be at leat average in CF? Will Swisher or Nady start in right and will the other be traded? The first two questions will be answered over time. But if they trade an outfielder that will probably happen some time soon and before the season starts. Go Yanks!

Girardi Starts His Second Camp

Joe Girardi officially begins his second year as Yankee manager as pitchers and catchers report on Friday. Obviously, last year was a fairly inauspicious debut for Girardi. Beset by injuries all over the place, the Yanks missed the playoffs for the first time since 1993. And while Joe did show a knack for bullpen management that far surpassed what we had gotten used to over Torre, not much else was impressive. Joe seemed distant to his players, and got on the wrong side of press by not always giving honest answers to their questions. More alarmingly, under his supposedly sabremetrically informed watch, the Yanks went from 4th all the way down to 21st in MLB in walk rate. Not good. Of course, some of that had to do with running out Molina and Cano's horrible year, and missing Matsui's and Po's walks. Still, the guys just weren't grinding for Joe. Hopefully, the additions of Teixeira and Swisher and the returns of Matsui and Posada will help, but Joe has to get Jeter, ARod and Melky back to grinding and Cano starting and ending the season as a grinder. Beyond that, he's got to relate better to the players and the press. He's got a loaded roster and getting back to, and winning the playoffs shouldn't be too terribly hard. Go Yanks!

Knicks at the Deadline

With the deadline approaching fast, and the Knicks off till after the All-Star break, the rumors were flying this week that the Knicks might want rookie tall, but skinny man, Anthony Randolph from the Warriors. It's unknown if he was their sole target, or a target along with others, or a piece in a deal that would land either Amare Stoutemire with the Knicks or Warriors. Donnie Walsh is about as secretive in his business as Brian Cashman has become over the years. It's unclear what they want, other than cap room in 2010, but it is clear what they have to trade. They can trade Nate, Lee, Harrington, Thomas, Jefferies, Marbury's expiring, Malik Rose's expiring, a trade exception, and, if someone is desperate enough for Lee, Eddy Curry. In other words, they are flush with trade parts and a plan for a change. If they do decide to get even younger, perhaps they could end up with Randolph and Michael Beasley or some other combination of youngsters and picks. Maybe they'll decide to go for a star now and acquire Amare or Bosh. I guess we'll see. They can certainly make the money work with anyone, and that's refreshing. Go Donnie!

Knicks Lose Again

The Knicks blew another lead and lost their 6th in a row and this time in OT to the Clippers. They had lead most of the night, but just collapsed again. This was their last game before the all-star break. The trade deadline is coming up next week and it will be interesting to see what happens.

Rosenhaus Screws Up

Super agent Drew Rosenhaus has got himself in hot water with the Giants and very likely the NFL over Plaxico Burress. On Monday, Rosenhaus e-mailed all of the teams and told them that Plax, as well as Anquan Boldin and Chad Ocho Cinco were available for trades. He was not authorized to do so by the Giants, who are at least acting like they are open to the return of Plaxico, though I personally don't think he'll be back. Things have gotten so screwy between Plax and the Giants since the above picture was taken. It's a shame.

Rangers Win One

Lauri Korpikoski and Ryan Callahan were the best players on the ice tonight for the Rangers in their 5-4 shoot-out victory over the Caps. Hank was not at his best, though to goals by Mike Green were lasers that may have been unstoppable. Korpi had a goal and an assist and Callahan had a goal in regulation and the game winner in the shootout. If we're gonna keep Renney and end up out of the playoffs, at least we can enjoy the development of the kids.

Tex for Captain!

Tex doesn't mess around! Questioned about his former and future teammate Alex Rodriguez, Tex says he's gonna give him a hug and tell him he loves him: http://newyork.yankees.mlb.com/news/article.jsp?ymd=20090211&content_id=3818368&vkey=news_nyy&fext=.jsp&c_id=nyy

Now, this is EXACTLY the kind of leadership we want from a Yankee Captain!

Dunn to the Nats -- RATS

Adam Dunn has signed a two year deal with the Nats. No other details are available at this time, but unless he's part of the group of 103, I think the Yanks really missed the boat here. They're losing Matsui, Damon, and Nady after this year and Matsui and Damon both get hurt enough for Dunn to get enough AB's in the overlap season. On the Yankee side, Dunn to the Nats and Abreu to the Angels last night probably pushes the Braves closer to making a deal with the Yankees for Swisher of Nady. Obviously, the hope here is that Nady is the one dealt, but if it is Swisher, it better be for a great package. I think we'll see something happen soon if it's going to happen at all. Go Cash!

Knicks Lose Again

They don't share the ball enough or take care of the ball enough. That's 5 losses in a row and they look closer to the lottery than they do to the playoffs. They also don't play very effective D, though they do play hard and that will come. Go Knicks.

Renney's Rangers Shut Out Again

This time 3-0 to the Devils. Pull the fricking trigger, Slats!

Giants Make Some Moves

Today, the Giants announced that they have re-signed back up QB David Carr and cut Sam Madison, Reuben Droughns, and Sammy Knight for a net savings of 4.25 Million dollars. They also hired Lehigh DL coach Al Holcomb to take over the open Defensive Quality Control position. Al is yet another young coach who has been added to the strong Coughlin Staff. Overall, a good day for the G-Men. Go Jerry!

ARod Comes Clean

Today, Alex Rodriguez told Peter Gammons that he used performance enhancing drugs from 2001-2003 with the Texas Rangers. He says he's been clean since then. BTW, here's the roster of the 2001 Rangers: http://www.baseball-almanac.com/teamstats/roster.php?y=2001&t=TEX And I think it's pretty clear to see that a young player coming into that clubhouse in the pre-testing days could have gotten caught up.

Where Have You Gone, George Steinbrenner?

It's now, in the wake of Joe Torre's Fail and Blame Book and ARod's illegally obtained test result that we miss the classic George Steinbrenner. So what would the Boss have done with his wits about him? First, he there might not have been a Torre book And if there was, George would recount Torre's career of managerial failure before going to work for Boss and the Safe at Home Foundation would have been investigated and most likely audited. What's more that little prick Verducci would have been investigated and financially ruined. Late, George would pay for Verducci's kids to go to college, but in the here and now he would have been destroyed.


As for the ARod positive. George would have immediately forgiven ARod and called it a matter of a young man making a mistake and partaking in gamesmanship. He would concede that he, himself had made mistakes in the past. Then for the hell of it, he would pick up the tab for ARod's daughters educations.


Then he would turn his attention to Selena Roberts. He would make some really sexist and inappropriate comments about her appearance, attack her credibility, attack her background, make some more comments about her looks, have her investigated, financially ruin her, extract the identities of her sources, destroy them and perhaps have the lot of them deported. It would be fast and final. And we miss that right now.

Headed to Hartford?

Apparently, Sean Avery who passed through waivers yesterday will head to the Hartford Wolfpack for conditioning on Tuesday. Presumably, the Rangers will then look at him and acquire him, if he can still skate. Another unsettling Ranger rumor has the Rangers on the verge of acquiring Todd Bertuzzi. This is a time when I wish Tom Coughlin was running the Rangers. Character matters.

Knicks Lose at the Buzzer

The Knicks blue a 13 point lead with under 7 minutes to play for their 4th loss in a row. After builing a lead on a 20-1 run, they seemed to kick it out of gear. I expect more from a team Coached by Mike D'Antoni. Do they want to be in the lottery and get blown up or do they want to show they can be good? Terrible loss.

Ding Dong?

Chris Botta of ESPN 1050 in New York is apparently report that Tom Renney could be out as Ranger coach as soon as tomorrow. No replacement names have been offered, but maybe Shoenfeld has changed his mind and wants to give it a crack. We'll see. Perhaps TR will stay with the organization in a more suitable role.

Avery Waived

So, Sean Averyhas been waived by the Stars. Is it only a matter of time before Hartford claims him then returns him to the Rangers? I think not. I also don't think he'd make much of a difference for this years team. Not as long as Renney is coaching them.

Gunga Din Alert!

It's on TCM right now. Sorry I didn't discover sooner. I try to always let you know when the grandaddy of all cool guy flicks is on.

A-Rod Tested Positive

SI has learned that Alex Rodriguez was one of over 100 MLB players that tested positive for steroids in what were supposed to be confidential tests in 2003. This will be a terrible blow to his legacy and could taint everything he's done and everything he will do. Fans will recall the MLB tested everyone back in 2003 in what was supposed to be a blind study just so MLB could get some idea of the breadth of the problem. It's hard to know why A-Rod's and only A-Rod's name is being leaked but that's where we are right now. We will probably never know quite how pervasive the epidemic was from 1979-the dawn of testing, but the scattershot witchhunt that's been going on since the Mitchell Report has claimed anothe big name.

Plax Out Too?

We knew that the Giants had already withheld a million dollar roster bonus Plax would have collected had he stayed healthy and that Plax had filed a union grievance over it. Now it turns out the Giants are going after even more of the money that was in the extension Plax signed during training camp, including recouping bonus money they have already paid him. This really doesn't look like it will land Plax back with the Giants and happy come training camp. I wonder what complications are keeping them from simply cutting him. I wonder what the Giants are gonna do for a #1 receiver.

Unwatchable

The Rangers are currently down 7-2 in the third period in Dallas and are assured of their 4th loss in a row. Now it's 8-2. Thankfully, Valliquette and not Hank is in the goal Apparently this is what you get when you tie up millions and millions in Gomez, Drury, Redden and Rozsival and make Tom Renney your coach. Now, today, we hear that the big fix they may be banking on is some convoluted waiver deal for Sean Avery. If you can't get good, get crazy? Readers of the blog will remember that a few years ago, I stopped talking about the Knicks here. The Rangers are very close to that happening to them unless intelligent moves are made and made soon.

Knicks Lose Again

A series of horrible shots and a sudden loss of defensive intensity lead to the 4th quarter collapse for the Knicks tonight. The Knicks currently have 3 problems with how they approach games: first they don't conistently share the ball on O; second, they don't play consistent defense; third, the rotation often finds Gallinari and Chandler on the bench for Qrich, Jefferies or Tim Thomas, and that just makes no sense. They should have won this game, but they didn't. They went 0-3 against the tough teams at HOME this week, and that just shouldn't have happened.

The Giants Let Go of Amani

From the first few times I saw him play for Michigan, I somehow knew he would eventually be a Giant. Of course, projecting Wolverines to the Giants has been a pretty safe bet historically, I accurately predicted he'd be the 2nd round pick in 1996. And a hell of a pick he was. He leaves the Giants as their all time leader in catches and recieving yards and was a tremendously underrated player in his prime. He made tons of huge plays for the Giants, and no one will ever forget what he did to Denver two different times. In his prime, he was deadly on the slant and go's, and as he grew older he became the best guy in football at getting both feet in. And of course he had huge plays in the playoff run that lead to Superbowl 42. He will be missed, but will also be remembered as one of the truly great Giants. I wouldn't be surprised if he ended up with the Raiders or 49ers next season. And good luck to Amani, wherever he goes.

Amare Officially On the Block

A few weeks ago it looked like Suns star Amare Stoudemire might be available for a trade. Now it's official, he is. The question is, could the Knicks be itnerested in adding a big piece now? Surely there will be other teams in on it, but in the NBA, players can often steer their way to a desired destination in a trade. Amare, like a lot of stars, would probably like to play for Coach D in NYC. So would the Knicks be able to put together a winning package for Amare without including Chandler? Hard to say.


What's more, Chris Bosh may also be on the trading block this month, and most Knick fans would prefer that he, rather than Amare, be the second big FA for 2010 if the cap room can be cleared. It should be an interesting month in the NBA, and it wouldn't be a shocker if the Knicks made another move or two.

Andruw Snubs Yanks

Former star CF Andruw Jones has apparently turned down a spring training invite from the Yanks. While that's probably a bad decision for Andruw given the Yanks CF situation, it at least tells the rest of us the Cash is still looking at the CF situation.

Nady Could Be Heading to the Braves

In his chat today, Ken Davidoff said it was 60-40 that the Yanks would end up sending Nady to the Braves for a minor league bat. Now, the Braves have some very good minor league bats including Heyward and Freeman who raked in the Sally League last year. Of course, I think the Braves would be nuts to trade either of those guys for Nady, but I hope the deal can be grown to get a projectable position guy from their system. Go Yanks.

Karlos Dansby Wouldn't Mind Being a Giant

Karlos Dansby, the big, versatile, physical Cardinal linebacker says he wouldn't mind play for the Giants. Well, if the price is right, I'm sure the Giants wouldn't mind the upgrade. Still, I wonder if they wouldn't rather rely on the system, player development and the draft to fill the linebacker position. They seem to prefer putting money into DL and DB, and that makes some sense. If they want an impact linebacker, they would probably prefer drafting one. But it's nice that he wouldn't mind being a Giant.

Knicks Lose a Close One

Gallo is upset cause he's not getting the ball enough. Not really, but he isn't getting the ball enough, and as a result, the Knicks aren't benefitting from his shooting ability to the extent they should be and will keep losing close one till they are. The first team got off to another slow start, and DLee seemed a little off all night, like he was distracted or something. Anyway, Harrington went off, but LeBron went off ever more and the Knicks ended up losing. Boston is next. Go Knicks.

Yanks Trade Wright for Fryer

The Yanks today traded Chase Wright to the Milwaukee Brewers for minor league OF/C Eric Fryer. Fryer put up nice numbers in the Sally League this year, including finishing first in OBP and third in SLG. That said he was old for the league and probably should have been promoted, since he was dominating. Defensive uncertainty has probably slowed him down. He played left and a bunch of C, but made a ton of errors as a catcher and as you can see, doesn't really have a chatcher's build, unless you are a Don Slaught fan. Still, the Yanks got an on base guy for a pitcher they had waived. Not a terrible transaction. Go Yanks.

Cash Says No More FA's

Cash had a few speaking engagements yesterday and told the audiences that the Yanks were out of the free agent business for now and that they were just looking for more players to invite to Spring Training a la the abysmal Angel Berroa who they signed to a minor league deal last month. Looks like Adam Dunn will be headed elsewhere, possibly the Dodgers, if you really believe they are out of the Manny business and now on to Dunn. And it doesn't seem like anything is hot on the "trade Nady!" front. I wonder if they could get Nomar or Jim Edmonds to come to ST. I guess we'll find out next week.

Re-runs During Sweeps?

It seems that CBS is airing a repeat episode of The Mentalist tonight. As it is a sweeps period, I really have to wonder why. Are they behind in the schedule? Let's hope they show new episodes in the coming weeks. And while we're at it, let's hope NBC brings Life soon.

Po

Jorge Posada told reporters down in Tampa that he will be ready for opening day, though he won't play in any ST games till March 6th. Po is a crucial piece for the Yank. Without him last year, the offense was hurt and the team lacked fire and accountability in his absence. What's more, the Yanks have not found an extra catcher who can hit a lick in the event that Po can't go. So, for his O and his leadership, we need Jorge Posada back this year. Get well, Jorge!

1 Point

Naslund scored with :10 left in regulation to tie it, then the Rangers lost the shootout. Way to honor Adam Graves, boys. Sather better be working those phones.

Great Graves

The Rangers are retiring #9 tonight for good, old Adam Graves. Just as Lou Gehrig and not Babe Ruth was the "Ideal Yankee," Graves and not Messier was the "Ideal Ranger." A selfless player who would take whatever action was needed to win a game, a fight or a point, he was all about team. You can't have enough of those guys, and the Rangers are making a great example for their young players by hanging up his jersey tonight. Meanwhile, on the game side, Anisimov will debut. Hopefully the presence of Graves, Messier, Richter and Leetch will point Anisimov, who was scoring a little better than a point a game as a 20 year old in Hartford, in the right direction.

Knicks Lose

Perhaps the Knicks can learn from the defense the Lakers played against them tonight. It's okay if they lose to a better team if they can learn and become a better team themselves. In general they didn't play as well as they've been playing. Hopefully, they'll be better against Cleveland and Boston. Go Knicks.

Big Time

With 11 days left till pitchers and catchers report, I'm gonna go ahead and predict a big year for 6'11" pitching prospect Andrew Brackman. Brackman has sick, sick stuff, even coming off TJ surgery. What he didn't have in Hawaii was good control, walking close to a man per inning. His repertoire consist of a 4 seamer (97-100), a 2-seamer (91-95), a tight curve, a knuckle curve and split-change.


Obviously he'll probably end up with a regular splitter, too as he's already using the grip for his change. Both of his fastballs move and once he can fit that movement into the strikezone, he should be on his way, since he can throw both curveball for strikes. This will be a big year for the split-change, too as he works it in more and more.


In any event, one of the things the Yanks have been great at developing has been fastball control. They did it for Joba, they got Betances on track last season, and I'd expect them to get Brackman on track and turn him into a huge prospect this season. Let's watch and see. Go Yanks.

Plax Still Helping Pittsburgh Win

Congrats Steelers. Plax got you the Lombardi.

Anisimov Up?

Rumor has it that the Rangers celebrated Super Bowl Sunday by calling up Artem Anisimov, their top minor league center. Artem is only 20 (will turn 21 in late May) and is 6'4" and nearly 200 pounds. He skates very well and his offense is continuing to emerge. He's been a +16 over the past season and a half in Hartford, and that's nice. I think he could be a difference maker for the Rangers, especially as he adds he continues to mature and add power. He will probably end up centering Zherdev and super junior Evgeny Grachev for a sweet skating all Russian line in the not too distant future. Seriously, this kid could turn out to be pretty special if he keeps developing. I believe he and Bobby Sanguinetti were the only Ranger prospects chosen for the AHL all-star game. Let's hope this one is true.