NFL Today

The NFL Today, whining players, ignorant GM's, blind league officials, and foot loving head coaches, has me thinking that the tough players really did play in the XFL. The most cancerous players are signed to the most depressing long term deals, the most innocent hits get mid week fines, and the Eagles Sunday night game against the Vikings this week got cancelled because of the snow. What would the old players say about the NFL Today? Chuck Bednarik, Jack Youngblood, Dick Butkus or Lawrence Taylor would be disgusted of the nature of the game today, which once provided the roughest most intense three hours of sports entertainment known to man. The sport that once left it all on the field now provides reality shows, tabloids, and coaches that bench their starting QB's with the game on the line; Mike Shanahan you once had a good name. Sunday NFL Countdown targets the heart of the football fan with its attempt at some tear jerking stories, while hay maker hits are thrown in the reject pile of Chris Berman's pre game rants. A lock out next season? Maybe the league could use a break, take a power nap, maybe even a Caribbean cruise, and come back with the attitude that football should never change.

JD

He Who Holds the Reigns

For the Animal Supporters of America, the inconvenient truth has become that Michael Vick is playing so well that even your dogs are tuning in on Sundays. Once a convicted felon, a villain in the public eye on the account of the dogs that he tortured and sent to death for his "cultural entertainment," Michael Vick has rebuilt himself and now sits in his chair atop the football world, the chair that gives him the best view of the NFL's newest game show entitled, Slow Mike Down. Following a 6 touchdown Monday Night performance against Washington two weeks ago, Vick's game worn jersey was brought to the Hall of Fame to be hung amongst the best quarterbacks of all time. Marino, Elway, Montana, and Vick. Not only has Vick shocked the football world, shattered some records, and placed his jersey in Canton, Ohio this season; he has also inserted the Eagles into Super Bowl talks, and put the NFL in a hell of a spot, as the emerging face of their precious product.

Much to Roger Goodell's chagrin Michael Vick is not back to square one, but ten times bigger and better than he was before he did hard time. With every week that passes, each eye popping play turns a hater into a fan, and makes Vick a heavy candidate for the NFL's most marketable player. Were over it, what Vick did was wrong. Professional athletes are human, and human errors have on so many occasions been forgiven, and it is time to forgive one more. The NFL has no choice but to let the "new Michael Vick" take hold of the league as a lobbyist against wrong, and the modern day symbol of hope and determination.

JD

"Don't It Always Seem To Go"

Donovan McNabb was the best quarterback in Philadelphia Eagles' history, and the respect he never received from the fans and organization could be vented upon for days. I was and always will be a defender of McNabb's legacy in Philadelphia, where he led us to five NFC Title games, one Super Bowl, and the best record of any NFC team in a ten year span. This off season, with McNabb's run in Philly coming to an end, I was in the minority in wanting number 5 to remain in white and green, but knew that moving to Washington could be the best thing for a career that was not dead yet. Sunday, it became evident that "utter" disrespect is something that McNabb can just not escape. Down six with two minutes ago, Redskins coach Mike Shanahan pulled Donovan and put back up QB Rex Grossman up against the defense of the Detroit Lions. When Grossman fumbled into the hands of Ndamukong Suh who ran it back for a game icing touchdown; the cameras panned to McNabb, who's facial expression was simply asking why? Since going to Washington Donovan has spoken rashly of Philadelphia, from fan base to organization on many occasions. Of all the respect that wasn't handed to McNabb during his days in Philadelphia one thing can be said for sure; with two minutes left and the game on the line, Andy Reid would have never put him on the sideline.

JD

Weakened At The Knees

Following season ending losses, that are at all times devastating, I find it cliche and monotonous to harp on what should of and what could of happened. To create a very shortlist I will say that there was no reason for Ryan Madson to pitch two innings when Jose Contreras was pitching as well as he was, Mike Sweeney would have been a better fit for a sac fly when pinch hitter Ben Fransisco stranded Raul Ibanez at third with one out in the sixth, and Greg Gross needs to be replaced by a Little League coach that will tell Ryan Howard to swing at anything close with two strikes; waste it or drive it. See but no matter what I say the World Series will not start in Philadelphia next week. We will need to wait until April to see red pinstripes play in a game that counts, and will proceed to drool over a long off season that will hopefully provide some exciting relief to an alarming end to another pennant run. Like many others I have made the Phillies my go to source of entertainment, and handed them the power to dictate my mood from night to night. With that I am left with nothing to say at all. The Giants beat us, they pitched better, hit better, and were managed better. Saturday night was far from just another day at the ball park for our beloved Phillies, and when they left, our dynasty case was weakened at the knees.

JD

Now This...This is Awkward

Over the last few weeks Eagles fans have managed to put the 30 minute Kevin Kolb era in the rearview mirror and fall in love with the infamous Michael Vick. Spurred by his flashy play making ability, and immediate gridiron success, Michael Vick is no longer an evil dog torturer in the likes of Broad and Cottman but the messiah, a god send to a football Franchise appearing more desperate than it needs to be.

While Vick may be Philly's "messiah" he is far from Superman, and last week against Washington that showed when Vick injured his ribs on a 30 yard scramble that was getting called back by holding from the start. Funny how that works. This week the Birds are marching into San Fran for a Sunday Night bout and Kevin Kolb is leading the pack; now what do the fans want? If Kolb dazzles the Niners the case will be made that he should have the ball even when Vick recovers from his rib injury. If Kolb stumbles and falls like in his debut; it will be just another reminder of the rocky road that lies ahead, and that the excitement of the Kolb-era was ill fated and ill advised.

JD

Say Your Not Scared: I Dare You

The "Big Three's" taken, so let's give that up. ESPN.com called them "The Firm," catchy and clever, bravo to the Worldwide Leader in Sports. The way I see it? It doesn't matter what you call them, they don't need a cliche nickname. All I know is that this post season, the Phillies are top dogs again, and this time it's not Ryan Howard, Chase Utley, or Jayson Werth. It's three pitchers who have had success, but together, rock the baseball world.

Us Phillies fans can replay it in our heads like it was yesterday. 2008. Cole Hamels staring cold into the glove of Carlos Ruiz, cool and confident that he would mow down the opponent, sizing up hitters with the eyes of a future champion. In that post season Hamels pitched in 5 games, threw 35 innings and gave up a mere 7 earned runs. When the Phillies celebrated the club's first crown in 28 years that October, it was Hamels' 4-0 record and 1.80 ERA that ultimately set them apart. Evidence? The MVP Awards of both the World Series and NLCS that Hamels took home when the team finally ran out of champagne.

In 2009. Hamels didn't give the follow up performance the crowd was looking for. His 10-11 record and 4.32 ERA fell way short of club and fan expectations, and by the 2009 trade deadline Cliff Lee was a Phillie and Hamels was no longer the team's number one. It took until 2010 for Cole to take that to heart. Reuben Amaro acquired Roy Halladay in the off season, and Cole wasn't on the hill come opening day at Nationals Park. Regardless, he saw 2010 as an opportunity to make Philly forget that he ever missed a beat. This year Cole has dazzled opponents start after start, and while his 12-11 record is a product of an inconsistent offense, his 3.09 ERA speaks volumes for itself. '08 form? Cole would say its just 2010 form, and the difference a year can make.

Reuben Amaro Jr. has always been a General Manager who doesn't shy away from assessing immediate team needs. This off season he sent Cliff Lee to Seattle in a three team trade that made Roy Halladay a Phillie, building one of the league's best one-two rotation punches. Halladay has displayed nothing short of greatness with a Cy Young worth 21-10 record, and four complete game shutouts, the last of which clinched the NL East. At this year's deadline Reuben was at it again, but this time surprised us all. Although a struggling and ailing offense was a major concern come late July, Amaro seized the opportunity to put another lights out starter in red pinstripes. Enter Roy Oswalt. Since joining the club, Oswalt's ERA has dropped almost a full point to 2.73, and his 7-1 record has dictated much of a 19-6 team run.

The Phillies clinched the top spot in the National League earlier this week, and that allowed them to set up their three man rotation for the NLDS. While the other teams may need to focus on getting in themselves, you can't help but wonder how well they are sleeping. With Hamels, Oswalt, and Halladay on the play bill, teams know what to expect; a struggle. While hitters may have to face them, pitchers need to oppose them. Going into a game knowing that giving up three runs puts your team in a bad position, raises the stress level of opposing rotations immensely. Have a thing for sheer dominance? Take a look at the combined 13-1 record these guys have posted in September. That doesn't get you going? Just stay tuned, the fun is yet to come.

JD

A Second Chance: A Better Chance

Sunday in Jacksonville, Michael Vick proved that he was far from a Kevin Kolb fill in. Not only is the once pro-bowler, and once inmate getting the second chance he dreamed of, he is playing with a supporting cast sent from the football gods; so let's get one thing straight. Michael Vick is starting solely because he is one of the NFL's prominent offensive weapons, and while PETA may not be convinced, the rest are getting there.

Just when it seemed like all was crashing down on Philadelphia, the water has calmed, and the light has shined through. Much to the chagrin of many, that light is Michael Vick. Vick has carried an ailing offense to two straight wins, putting up eye popping numbers, and making eye pleasing plays. Vick has joined an offense full of weapons, filled with the uncertainty of what's to come, and powered by the element of surprise. What he adds with his legs, arm, and experience, raises the hazard level significantly. What Vick does is create. His play making abilities will enable Desean Jackson and Jeremy Maclin to get in the open field and use their legs to make it happen as well. The possibilities for an offense that features the swift #7 are endless. So open up your mind and your eyes, and just enjoy the show.

JD

The Good Gone Bad

Coming into the 2010 season it seemed as though everything was going for Eagles quarterback Kevin Kolb. He was under the wing of Andy Reid, the old quarterback coach of the Packers (when Favre first became a starter) who has had a knack for breeding winners throughout his career. More importantly however, is the allegiances he had gained. He is inheriting an offense no older than him, and a fan base that is happy that a season not featuring # 5 is finally getting underway. Cue the violin. When Kevin Kolb rolled out last Sunday, and was was slammed head first into the ground by Packers' linebacker Clay Mathews, it all fell apart. During half time Kolb was deemed unfit to play, and left a mess for back up Michael Vick. When Vick picked that mess up, doing all but licking the plate clean in a 27-20 loss, what was once a first year starter's utopia, is now a living hell.

Since Kevin Kolb, along with middle linebacker Stewart Bradley, failed his concussion test earlier this week, Michael Vick has been announced Sunday's starter for the first time since 2006. And while Shaun Hill fills in for Matthew Stafford for the opposing Detroit, things are way different in Philadelphia. Kevin Kolb is being backed up by a 6-time pro bowler, not a late round draft pick up, so if Vick beats Detroit on Sunday, and shows that he has control of the offense, speculation will begin to rise. Do the Eagles continue to treat this as a rebuilding year, a year to get Kolb situated into the the NFL, or do they go with an option (Vick), that may give them a better chance to win. Starting or not, Michael Vick will be on the free agent market come this off season, but will starting him ruin the confidence of a project that Reid and the organization believes in? Kevin Kolb has officially stepped into the same boat as Donovan McNab; a boat called the dog house. In order to "do well" in eyes of the Philadelphia fans, Kolb needs to one, not make any mistakes, and two, out do Michael Vick, who looks the best he has in years. When it seemed that these fans could be rational, almost patient as a young quarterback gets acclimated into an established organization; a small concussion could be the burden on a career that has hardly begun.

JD

NFL Preview 2010

One of the highest anticipated football season in years is carrying one big punch line, "it's anyone's game." With player-organization turmoil reaching an all-time high, an unhappy player this off season is about as common as a hurt one. Week 1 lineups? A mystery. My Predictions? Next.

Power Rankings

1. Indianapolis Colts

And just when we thought Peyton would have a reason to turn it all in, with another MVP and another Super Bowl ring, the Saints put revenge on the table. The Colts 14-2 record capped off their reign as the winningest team of the last decade, and backed up their title as the league'spremier team. Super bowl runner ups? Old news. Peyton and the boys are coming back to win it all once again, so for anyone who gets in their way, good luck.

2. New Orleans Saints

Counting out the reigning Super Bowl Champions as NFC favorites is not only illogical but virtually suicidal. Four years removed, Katrina is no longer an excuse to win, and the feeling of victory at the highest level of competition takes it place. The Saints new inspiration? Get back, win, and parade down Bourbon once again. The Saints, a team known for its explosive offense, finds its strength with its play making defense, that had 26 interceptions last season, and scored on five. Jonathan Vilma's run stopping ability and Will Smith's 13 sacks last season is what spurred the secondary to new heights. From there, the league's most explosive offense takes it course. Quarterback play is all about getting it done in the clutch; and right behind Manning, Brees is my guy. Once Brees and Marques Colston get in sync, a defensive stop is an automatic 7, and the Saints become one of the league's elite.

3. Dallas Cowboys

They say everything is bigger in Texas, and in 2010, they are right. As an Eagles fan it pains me to "super rank" the Cowboys, and that should show you just how serious this squad is. Tony Romo, now a premier NFL QB, has an abundance of toys to play with. But if Jason Witten, Miles Austin, Roy Williams and Dez Bryant can't get it done, maybe backfield stars Marion Barber and Felix Jones will. On defense, Dallas leans on its pass rush that stars Pro Bowlers Jai Ratliff and Demarcus Ware; and wins with its secondary including All-Pro corners Mike Jenkins and Terrance Newman. Some keys to victory; we will stop you, and you won't stop us.

4. New York Jets

There are only so many things that can compensate for a sub par quarterback. The New York Jets, who feature USC product Mark Sanchez, luckily have them all. A game plan that can rely on its run game that hands the ball to Shonn Greene and Ladanian Tomlinson, but also has wide out weapons Jericho Cotchery, Braylon Edwards, Lavraneus Coles, and Santonio Holmes, who joins the Jets after Week 4. On the other side of the ball, the apple doesn't fall far from the tree, where Rex Ryan, identical to his father Buddy, has his defense in tip top shape. A team that lost to the Colts in the AFC Championship last season, added a very key piece to their roster this off-season; a third down back. In pre-season, Sanchez and Tomlinson are already showing that they have a good connection, which will be a good safety valve, that tight end Dustin Keller barely provides. A new toy? Try a new best friend for a quarterback who needs the short game to survive.

5. Baltimore Ravens

Every year since Joe Flacco has been in the league this team has prospered and played football into the ladder stages of the year. Now that Ray Rice is a star back and the Ravens front office added Anquan Boldin to their roster; their chances of success are only getting higher. Baltimore's D has become a mere constant in the NFL ever since their title in 2000. With a star running back as well as a true number one receiver, Ray Lewis will make sure his offense has the ball. When they do, history won't tell the story, and points are much more probable.

6. Cincinnati Bengals

The main theme for good teams this year is an abundance of weapons on offense, and a reliable unit on defense. The Bengals have just that. Carson Palmer and his amigo Chad Ochocinco welcome another big mouth vet in Terrell Owens, fresh off the worst year of his career in Buffalo; expect some changes there. The Bengals, who thrived on the ground last season, adopted a dual system this off season, grooming Bernard Scott who's speed is the perfect compliment for Cedric Benson's change of pace style.

7. New England Patriots

In the eyes of the sports nation the Patriots had an off year last season, so if 10-6 with a division title is off, this team turns me on. WIth a shaky defense that features mostly young talent, the Pats offense could get back to '07 form, starting the year the healthiest they've been since. If the offense is in '07 form, look out. When Tom Brady gets in sync with his Welker dump off and Moss long ball, not only does the ground game open up but the pressure eases off the boys on the other end. If the Patriots can control the tempo of the game, use clock and score on long possessions, their defense will be able to take risks and go after opposing offenses, adding the final touch to a classic winning formula.

8. Green Bay Packers

Here is an offense that has the potential to score the most points this season. Seasoned wide outs in Greg Jennings and Donald Driver, a young versatile tight end in Jermichael Finley, a running back who puts up the same stunning numbers every season in Ryan Grant, and Aaron Rodgers, who is emerging as the league's next big thing at the quarterback position. This Packers team could very well be identical to the Cardinals in '08. Putting up lopsided numbers and winning the game in the air, ultimately when it counts, with a QB who is calm cool and collected at all times.

9. San Francisco 49er's

The 49er's, a sleeper team of sorts in 2010, not only find themselves as clear NFC West favorites, but a team that could make serious serious noise. The Niners defense was the backbone for any success they had in '09, led by a consistent secondary and an All-Pro play maker in Patrick Willis. In that vain, San Francisco's offense will show up much more in 2010. Adding Ten Ginn Jr. in the off season and welcoming back Frank Gore and Michael Crabtree as full time members after their set backs in '09, this team is wired for success.

10. Philadelphia Eagles

Oh the Eagles. The hometown Birds are tricky to predict in 2010, but as a biased fan they had to crack the top ten. Kevin Kolb takes over for Donovan McNabb at the helm, signifying the end of an era that many fans loathed for years. As Kolb enters the bright Philadelphia spotlight, he couldn't of came at a better time. The Birds receiving core is among the league's best, and if Kolb can get them the ball with space to work, his job will be very easy. This off season, the organization addressed needs on the defensive end drafting DE Brandon Graham, and S Nate Allen to try and fill holes vacated over the last couple of years. The Eagles also added veteran linebacker Ernie Sims and get Stewart Bradley back from a knee injury that sidelined him for all of 2009. If the Eagles can stop the run, their young defense won't look so young, and the Kolb-Reid era could start with a bang.

11. Minnesota Vikings

What else is there to say but Brett Favre is back. After another "eventful" off season Favre is back and this time I have a feeling it will be his last; but who will ever know. Following a season where he posted a passer rating of 107.2, the best of his illustrious career, Favre will be missing favorite target Sidney Rice for the first several weeks of the year. A set back? Maybe, but with Adrian Peterson, Bernard Berrian, old friend Javon Walker and All-Pro play maker Percy Harvin, things are still looking up. Jared Allen continues to be the league's most feared pass rusher, and Minnesota's linebacking core and secondary continue to be a problem for opposing offenses. Favre's goal, eclipse last year's success and end of his Hall of Fame career with a touchdown, a completion, or even an incomplete pass; just not an interception.

12. Houston Texans

Following last year's success, the league's most recent expansion franchise can no longer be considered the underdogs. With an absolute dynamite offense featuring Matt Schaub, Andre Johnson, and Owen Daniels, that however, lacks a running game and a competent number two receiver that can take the pressure off Johnson, who is the league's best. That is where this team meets its downfall. If Schaub and Johnson get shut down, a formula which defensive coordinators are still out to find, Houston lacks a back up plan and a shut down defense. Houston has a good pass rushing line, but doesn't have a secondary lean on and feel comfortable sending the blitz. As more and more teams figure out this offense, the Texans run into more and more problems. Until than, Schaub and Johnson get set for a playoff run.

13. San Diego Chargers

The departure of Ladanian Tomlinson was the illustration of a new start for the Bolts this off season. Fresno State product Ryan Matthews has San Diego smelling like Febreze, fresh and not missing a beat on offense. On defense, the Chargers continue to descend. An aging line, slow linebacking crew and a depleted secondary has this team with question marks all around. So 13th? To put it plain and simple they are the hierarchy in one of football's worst divisions in years, a title that can carry a substantial amount of weight amidst an NFL season.

14. Miami Dolphins

Oh how Brandon Marshall is going to hate the wild cat. What he may not know; if he can avoid the drama, he could just thrive. The Dolphins made a huge step in acquiring Marshall as a number one receiver, one this team hasn't seen since Chris Chambers in the early 2000's. Chad Henne takes over an offense that limits his power, and inherits a diva who demeans it. The Dolphins are strong on defense, and have a scheme that has ultimately defined obscure offensive success over the past few seasons. But a big problem, Henne's plate. Just a few years removed from Ann Arbor Henne has a whole lot to handle, Tony Sparano and Bill Parcells can only pray that he is ready.

15. Washington Redskins

As one era ends in Philadelphia, the Shanahan-McNabb saga begins in D.C. Whenever there were shades of hope for Washington in the past, it seemed as though their quarterback is what held them back. No matter what anyone says about Donovan McNabb, they are inheriting a leader, a competitor, and a winner, who has experience and a skill set that will allow any team he is on to set serious success goals. With a plethora of running backs, and a handful of promising wide outs, McNabb is doing something he hasn't done in 11 years. He is starting over. As a franchise, Washington has already encountered a 350 pound speed bump in the form of a childish defensive lineman. To go without naming him, I would strongly advise Washington to get rid of the negative energy that he has brought to that franchise, and move on with a defense that can manage.

16. Atlanta Falcons

Here is another explosive offense. Matt Ryan and Roddy White are one of the league's premiere connections, and Michael Turner is...Michael Turner. Like most teams in the NFC South this team has much trouble getting stops, most importantly when stops are badly needed. Clutch defense wins, and this team has lacked that along their rocky roads to the off season over the past few seasons. If all goes well, Matt Ryan will be healthy this season and their offense can carry this team to limited success. Their next goal, eliminate that limit, that will not only act as a driving force but a burden on the confidence of a rising team.

17. New York Giants

SI's pick to win the NFC East just isn't doing all that much for me. Although the Giants have serious talent on both ends of the ball, they spent much of 2009 searching for answers that never got resolved. A huge factor for the Giants this season, their schedule, which is seemingly one of the toughest in the league. Six games against NFC East rivals, and a date with each team in the NFC South, a schedule formula that equals no smooth sailing in 2010 for the boys of North Jersey.

18. Pittsburgh Steelers

The absence of Ben Roethlisberger will be something that this team will not overcome until he is back behind center. That is when Rashard Mendenhall, Mike Wallace, and Hines Ward insert the final piece to a strong offense. However, a 16 game NFL season is much about momentum, and an 0-4 start would just be hard to overcome. To avoid that, this defense needs to take '08 form and step it up. Troy Polamalu using his speed, and hair, needs to keep the long plays in front of him, and allow Lamar Woodley and James Harrison to get around the end and get to opposing QB's. Old Steeler football, let the defense do the work.

19. Chicago Bears

Like most teams, this team will rise and fall with Jay Cutler. My prediction; he is on the rise. With Devin Hester, Johnny Knox and Devin Aroshamadu, Cutler certainly has guys that he can air it out to and use the big play to the fullest. Serious keys for this team this season. Get back to the ground, that means you Matt Forte, yes you. Sophomores slumps go in the rearview mirror, no questions asked, and the Bears badly need you in 2010. Another key, the arrival of Julius Peppers and the return of Brian Urlacher, however aged they may be, need to be the flames that re ignite a defense slipping out of its prime.

20. Arizona Cardinals

Ken Wisenhut and the Arizona staff made the absolute right decision with Derek Anderson, assuring that their offense will be run by an accurate quarterback that has shown glimpses of starter potential. Something that Matt Leinart certainly has not. On defense, the Cardinals continue to look to their secondary for answers, and hope that Darnell Dockett can continue to be a play maker on their offensive line. All-Pro safety Adrian Wilson will continue to do his thing, but expect this team to be seriously dethroned by the NFC West this year.

21. Tennessee Titans

The Titans defense took a major step back in 2009, which made room for their offense emerge. While I cannot see it all coming together for the Titans in 2010, you still can't sleep on the blur. Chris Johnson, coming off an MVP season (where he was not crowned) will continue to carry a team that as yearning for another option. Until that craving is assessed, C.J. is taking his speed and his busy agenda, and going to work.

22. Jacksonville Jaguars

Like the Giants the Jags have a tough schedule, with divisional games in the AFC South, and a date with each team in the NFC B-East. Like the Titans, the Jaguars are riding one option, Maurice Jones-Drew, but Mojo can only take so much. A team that always has their name in the mix come playoff time, is too one dimensional therefore too predictable, and too similar to a year ago.

23. Carolina Panthers

Dear Carolina, call me crazy, but you may just miss Jake Delhomme. While his end to a mediocre run in Carolina came to a close awkwardly, Matt Moore doesn't heal any wounds. Steve Smith is getting old and your dual back system is just about all you have left, so hit the ground and talk to Rex Ryan about possible playbook swaps for 2010.

24. Denver Broncos

While some of us hope that success will follow Tim Tebow to Denver, he not only has no control but also has little hope. Denver, last year's Cinderella team, lost All-Pro receiver Brandon Marshall to free agency, and will find out soon how valuable Marshall was despite his downing attitude. Elvis Dumervil will need to capture greatness once again, and the Broncos defense could benefit from stalling the opponents run game again in 2010.

25. Seattle Seahawks

T.J. is out of town and everyone can take a second to acknowledge the newfound peace in the locker room. Pete Carroll hopes to start off his second stint in the NFL with success, but the team he inherited is not going to make that easy. Matt Hasselbeck will have his hands full with a young up and coming offensive core that includes Justin Forsett and Golden Tate, as prime targets, and Julius Jones as a fellow savvy vet.

26. Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs are never getting out of Kansas City, not without a winning season in the coming years. Matt Cassell peaked with the Pats and like many low tier teams this team will look to the ground for answers. The Chiefs front office acquired Thomas Jones this off season to join Jamaal Charles in a back field that could make some loud noise. Aside from the the Chiefs have problems, and they're not getting out of Kansas City alive.

27. Detroit Lions

The Lions had the best draft in the league this year, which will set them up for the long run, and allow them to rebuild in the 2010 sprint. Ndamukong Suh and Jahvid Best are among a young crew that also includes sophomores Matthew Stafford and Brandon Pettigrew, which will give Detroit fans something to be excited for as they watch these players blossom and show signs of a good future.

28. Buffalo Bills

The Bills added a play maker in C.J. Spiller via the NFL Draft, but should of added a player that could help them on the defensive end. With Fred Jackson and Marshawn Lynch already in town, Buffalo went in the wrong direction and missed a big opportunity to begin to rebuild a defense that is a serious issue.

29. Oakland Raiders

Jason Campbell was hurt this off season but if he is healthy. Ed Davis may have finally done something right. While I earlier bashed his performance as a D.C. quarterback, Oakland yearns for someone that can control the tempo of a game and put up points. Oakland has a decent defense for a team that is in what I like to call the "NFL's hole," and their offense is what has stalled any chances of success in past years.

30. Cleveland Browns

Brady Quinn finally left, and Cleveland fans can finally smile. With Lebron gone, some of the focus may move to the Browns and the spotlight could be something that a dying franchise can call on for inspiration. Other than that, Cleveland has nothing to cheer about, but an embarrassing team and a "starting" quarterback that is bound to let them down.

31. St. Louis Rams

Sam Bradford has been stunning in pre season and in result is the named starter for Sunday's opener. A major concern early on, is that number one receiver Donnie Avery has sustained an injury that will sideline him for all of 2010. Bradford is not going to have an easy road this season, but will gain much experience as "the man" on a very sub par team.

32. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Tampa Bay. Nothing going for them, nothing to cheer for. But good luck.

Division and Playoff Predictions

NFC East

1. Dallas Cowboys

2. Philadelphia Eagles

3. Washington Redskins

4. New York Giants

NFC North

1. Green Bay Packers

2. Minnesota Vikings

3. Chicago Bears

4. Detroit Lions

NFC South

1. New Orleans Saints

2. Atlanta Falcons

3. Carolina Panthers

4. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

NFC West

1. San Francisco 49er's

2. Arizona Cardinals

3. Seattle Seahawks

4. St. Louis Rams

NFC Wild Card- Philadelphia Eagles and Minnesota Vikings

AFC East

1. New York Jets

2. New England Patriots

3. Miami Dolphins

4. Buffalo Bills

AFC North

1. Baltimore Ravens

2. Cincinnati Bengals

3. Pittsburgh Steelers

4. Cleveland Browns

AFC South

1. Indianapolis Colts

2. Houston Texans

3. Tennessee Titans

4. Jacksonville Jaguars

AFC West

1. San Diego Chargers

2. Denver Broncos

3. Kansas City Chiefs

4. Oakland Raiders

AFC Wild Card- New England Patriots and Cincinnati Bengals

NFC Championship Game- Dallas Cowboys vs. New Orleans Saints

AFC Championship Game- Baltimore Ravens vs. New England Patriots

Super Bowl- New England Patriots beat Dallas Cowboys 27-21

JD

The Washington Post

Should Washington beat themselves up for bringing Stephen Strasburg into the Major Leagues prematurely? Hind sight may be twenty twenty, but was half a season of scattered wins and inflated ticket sales worth the possible career of a young phenom? Last week against the Philadelphia Phillies, Stephen Strasburg's arm came up lame after a pitch to outfielder Dominic Brown, and from there comes the extreme speculation. Strasburg's elbow is demanding Tommy John surgery which will sideline him for the rest of this season and all of the next. Will he ever be the same? Fans of the game can only pray. What Strasburg's injury does more than anything is raise awareness around the sporting world. How careful do organizations need to be with their young talent. For teams with deep futures, but not much going for them in the present, let's just say they'll start babying their gems a little more.

For a team like the Washington Nationals, what is the rush? Baseball organizations like Washington, Kansas City, Baltimore, among others, are going to need a lot more than one minor league piece to achieve immediate future success. Furthermore, the jump from the Minors to the pro level is no walk in the park. The pro game is demanding, and while the minors leagues is no joke, the level of competition pushes young players to their limits. For rising pitchers; Major league batters can take close strikes, work deep counts, foul off your money pitch, and make you sweat for long grueling innings. For Stephen Strasburg, those deep counts, long games, and grueling innings got to him. Now the message is out.

JD

Rise of The Mound or Fall of The Needle?

Monday Night Matt Garza threw the first no hitter in Rays history and the fifth of 2010, joining Edwin Jackson, Roy Halladay, Dallas Braden and Ubaldo Jimenez as baseball's newest heroes. However, as the number of no-no's climbs to new heights this season, the performance of the pitchers is hardly the headline story. With every out, scoreless inning, and gem that is recorded with much more ease this season, the decline of the steroid era is unfolding before our eyes.

In 1998, at the peak of the steroid era, Mark McGwire broke Roger Maris's single season home run record of 61 when he belted 70 home runs. In that year there was one no hitter thrown, a perfect game by the Yankees' David Wells against the Minnesota Twins. In twelve years has the pitching in the Major Leagues improved so much to up the number of no hitters, a usual rarity, from one to five? Impossible. Ever since Jose Canseco and George Mitchell exposed steroid users and raised awareness among MLB officials, power numbers have deflated and pitching numbers have strengthened once again. As baseball continues to regularly test and suspend those who are found using performance enhancing drugs, offensive number will continue to dwindle until the game reaches its purest form again. Until then, it is all under speculation.

JD

Shake Your Groove Thang

The hometown Phils have fallen into a slump far worse than anticipated when it all began more than a month ago. While the run support and "clutch" pitching has been missing since Daisuke blanked us on May 22nd, this slump seems to be far more mental than physical, which as the great Yogi Berra would add, makes up just about the whole game. In an attempt to "shake it up a little bit," Charlie Manuel has optioned starter Kyle Kendrick to Triple-A Lehigh following an awful start against the St. Louis Cardinals Monday night, and brought up right-handed pitcher Andrew Carpenter to take his place. Like the rest of Philadelphia, Manuel yearns for some togetherness, for some urgency, and for some pride. If the 7-6 Andrew Carpenter is an attempt

to scare guys, and make them pitch for their jobs, I will take this time to offer some advice. Want to make guys squirm? Lose some sleep over their spot in the lineup, and make them feel that they could see the bench in the near future? Ladies and gentleman, meet Dominic Brown.

As of Saturday Night, there are 118 hitters in the National League who are eligible to lead the league in average with runners in scoring position. Jayson Werth, who hits fifth for the Phillies, is lucky number 117. Werth, who protected Howard with MVP numbers in the first month and a half of the season, has been in a funk only thought possible in the worst of baseball nightmares. Need some insight? On May 7th, a 2 for 4 game put Jayson's average at .359. By May 30th he was below .300, and now his average is hovering around .280 depending on the day. With runners in scoring position Jayson is hitting .163, and with runners in scoring position with two outs he is hitting a dismal .114. With none on and none out Jayson hits .358, leading off an inning or following a Ryan Howard home run, far less than the ideal pressure situation. With a runner on third base less than two outs his average dips to .143, a three digit number that tells us he is less than a competent protector for one of the league's most dangerous hitters. Jayson, who was called the league's best Right Fielder by Peter Gammons earlier this year, is in a contract year, and has had his name thrusted in and out of trade talks as Philadelphia searches for answers. What Jayson could really use? A warm up jacket and some splinters in his butt.

Werth's fellow outfielder, Raul Ibanez,has been unable to dig out of a statistical hole he dug in the beginning of the year, and has likewise been unable to consistently produce. Since Chase Utley has gone on the long term DL, Raul has been able to see more fast-balls and hit better in the three whole, but ultimately is not exceeding the expectations that the city and organization have for him. Unlike Werth, Ibanez has hit moderately well in special situations, but has failed to come to the park and perform on a day to day basis, with his .252 average and 7 home runs.

Enter Dominic Brown. Since Jayson Werth and Raul Ibanez were both negatively presented with statistics, Brown will be the exception. To start 2010 Brown hit .318 with 15 home runs in 65 games with AA Reading, and now has hit .360 with 4 home runs in 20 games with AAA Lehigh Valley. As Brown continues to strengthen his Minor League resume, his only down side is that he bats from the left side, just like Raul Ibanez, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Ross Gload, and Greg Dobbs; five players who are not only left handed, but left handed with power. Whether or not Brown fully accommodates the Phils' exact needs in the lineup, or on the bench, his numbers and evident readiness is something that cannot be passed up.

The lead for the Atlanta Braves in the division is up to 6.0 games, and that means the Phillies are only getting farther away from a fourth straight division title. Charlie Manuel is coaching a lifeless team and the number of answers is dwindling. Now he has to simply, shake it up. Charlie, I'm calling Dominic Brown your groove thang, your tool to get these cocky vets to play with some heart again. Shake away.

JD

Changing Face

Tuesday night the National League won its first MLB All-Star game in 13 years, and Brian McCann became the first catcher to win the MVP in just as many; neither of which are the real oddities of the first half. As of Tuesday, the Atlanta Braves, Cincinnati Reds, and San Diego Padres are all the leaders in their divisions in a league where there seems to be less parody than a college football conference. Not anymore. Teams like the St. Louis Cardinals, Philadelphia Phillies, San Francisco Giants, and LA Dodgers have two options; end the cinderella runs, or accept the fact that the the National League could be changing face.

Second Half Predictions

NL East- Despite an abundance of detrimental injuries the Philadelphia Phillies (two-time defending NL champs) have put themselves in a good place to operate for another World Series run. At 4.5 games back in the division, trailing the Braves is not their only problem, the Mets are in between. With the Phils pitching continuing to establish itself as a reliable pillar of an offense driven ball club, and the hitting beginning to mesh despite being without Chase Utley and Placido Polanco, there is no way that they don't come out on top of the NL East come September. However, the Mets and Braves have both played with more consistency and tenacity in the first half, and if the Phillies don't catch up in that department, their big name players and sparkling past won't do a thing for them.

NL Central- The Reds stand alone on top of the NL Central, and oddly, seems like something that will last. The Cards are the only team that has a shot of dethroning them at 1.0 game behind, but an inconsistent offense and pitching staff has them flat footed against a Reds team playing with fire. If Joey Votto, Scott Rolen and Brandon Phillips can continue to support a Reds pitching staff that is running against the tide, their bullpen will keep on closing games like a contending staff and propel them into October.

NL West- The NL West is the trickiest Division because the four teams that are contending are all separated by 4.0 games. The Rockies, Dodgers, Giants, and Padres all have upsides and downsides that could make or break their playoff runs, where there is so little room for error. Even though the Padres have led the division for just about the whole season, a team that hasn't won "when it counts" always have a hard time in close races, and that is where I see them folding, in deep August and September. From there, I am going to stick with my pre-season pick in the San Fran Giants. Their pitching will only get better in the second half, and Buster Posey is not only putting together a serious ROY campaign but providing a bat that is imperative for a Giant playoff run. If other bats in their lineup can also pick it up, they will be able to pass the LA Dodgers, who play with less explosiveness but much more overall consistency at the plate.

JD

The Making Of An Artificial Champion

Right now, I would prefer to rant about another Cliff Lee trade, another Jake Peavy injury, or another Phillies slump, but that would just be uncharacteristic of this summer in sports. If you happened to missed the hour special, don't get ESPN on your cable plan, or are crawling out from under your rock as I write this, Lebron James will be playing alongside Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade with the Miami Heat next season. Just about as lame and predictable as the Lebron sweepstakes could get after the three met personally to talk about next season. A pact to "share" the spotlight and a D-Wade pay cut made it official that the three would become the league's newest trio thus being dubbed the "Miami Thrice." The Heat when on the biggest shopping spree in basketball history this off season, and aside from creating a beast unlike any the NBA has ever seen, it put a mark on one man's NBA report card that will be illuminated forever.

For phase one of Lebron's career he gets an A for personal achievement and an F for team achievement. Harsh? This is not an F like Carter got with the Raptors or McGrady with the Magic, but an F that says that Lebron lead his team to the NBA's best record in his final season in Cleveland, than couldn't get them out of the second round. The next step would normally be redemption; Lebron's next step was out the door, high tailing it from failure rather than going back for revenge.

For a superstar like Lebron I see two ways to win a championship. One, with a running mate; Kobe and Shaq, Magic and Kareem. Two, with a solid (almost star-studded) supporting cast; Jordan with Rodman and Pippen or Duncan with Robinson, Parker, and Ginobili. In conclusion there were two feasible options for Lebron this off season. Stick with Cleveland, a place where he had that good supporting cast, or pair up with another star like Dirk, Amare Stoudemire, or even Bosh by himself. Option three, in the making, but certainly not to join an All-Star team.

In baseball, we throw asterisks in and out of conversations as a way to indicate a record that was wrongfully set. For Lebron, he just put one next to any title he may win with the Miami Heat. If his off-season was all about winning, so be it, but image for Lebron, is now a major concern. Cleveland gave Lebron all they could, Shaq, Mo Williams, Anthony Parker, Antwain Jamison, and still, he failed. Going to Miami with Bosh and Wade was not a "personal sacrifice" by any means, but a mere career cop out that many, may never forget.

JD

Wildcats and Wild Cards:NBA Draft Review

For some teams, eras began Thursday night. Like John Wall and Co., a name that will stick in Washington, and Evan Turner, one of the drafts wild cards, starting anew in the City of Brotherly Love. For most teams however, they begin to hold their breathes now. Who will check out? And what city is looking at a player who just may not make the cut? Next.

Future Busts

1. Luke Babbitt (16th Overall, Trailblazers)

Babbitt is a guy who's college numbers tell you that he is in line to be an NBA flex four guy. What does he lack the most? Length. Luke stands at 6'9'', but only has a wing span of 6'11'', one of the smallest of guys his size in this draft. Luke, who shot 42 percent from three last season, did so at Nevada, a mid-major school in a mid major conference where the defense is weak, and perimeter shots are rarely contested. Up against someone his size, who is stronger and longer, that pretty jump shot won't look so good.

2. Paul George (10th Overall, Pacers)

George has the same height and wingspan as Babbitt, but that is not what concerns me. What concerns me is his immaturity. George averaged 3 fouls a game at Fresno State, and in a professional game where players tend to me much more sneaky as well as crafty that foul count can easily be upped, making it hard for him to play successful D at the next level. George, who is only 214 pounds will need to put on some extra muscle to contend as a small forward in a league that produces more players who look more like Mac Trucks than corvettes every season.

3. Gordon Hayward (9th Overall, Jazz)

Mid major star turned NBA lottery pick. This kid knows pressure, and showed that he could handle it when he carried a Butler team all the way to the finals of the NCAA Tournament. However, Hayward's game revolves around his ability to play in space, hold the ball, and get to the rim (created by his jump shooting ability). In Utah, Hayward will not be given the opportunity to play in space, nor create penetration with his jump shot because it will be much harder to get it off. Hayward was a backyard pick for Utah which won't pan out well for them in the future.

Future Stars-

1. Greg Monroe (7th Overall, Pistons)

At Georgetown, Monroe showed that he was a mature big man, that can not only defend and rebound but consistently put the ball in the net in the low post. With a good big man skill set and a clear NBA body, Greg Monroe's college success will most definitely translate into more success at the next level.

2. Xavier Henry (14th Overall, Grizzlies)

As a freshman at Kansas, Xavier Henry showed that he could score often and in the clutch. With a jump shot, good dribbling skills, and a quick first step, Henry's ability to put the ball in the net will not be hindered at the NBA level, but rather helped. The slow downed pace of the NBA game will give Henry the opportunity to stretch the floor with his J and use his speed to get to the rack. Kevin Durant will keep this guy at an arm's length from the scoring title, but expect him to be close.

3. Kevin Seraphin (17th Overall, Bulls)

David Stern walked up the podium, grin on his face, muttered "listen to this" to someone in the front row, and proceeded to chuckle while introducing the Bulls 1st rounder from France. Seraphin's a long stretch as a future NBA star, but let's just say there's a little thing called karma that may just creep up and bite the NBA's commish in the ass one day.

Worst Team Drafts

1. New York Knicks

The Knicks got Andy Rautins and Landry Fields; Lebron isn't in New York yet.

2. Toronto Raptors

Chris Bosh is a free agent, and the only way for the Raptors to save their franchise and fan base would be to sign him. Furthermore, with the second to last lottery pick Toronto chose Bosh's replacement Ed Davis from UNC. If Bosh was in the door way, let's just say he has one foot out.

3. Portland Trailblazers

The search for Brandon Roy's wing man did not end this year. Luke Babbitt, Elliott Williams, and Armon Johnson will not be able to provide the spark that Portland needs out of someone besides their superstar. I would of tried a pure scorer, or a big man.

4. Minnesota Timberwolves

Wesley Johnson can score, but I wasn't crazy about him as the fourth overall pick. Otherwise everything else Minnesota did was not questionably awful but downright awful. The Wolves traded Ryan Gomes and the 16th pick for Martell Webster. For Martell Webster. Later the Wolves obtained Lazar Hayward and have to give him a guaranteed contract. Why Minnesota? Why?

5. Charlotte Bobcats

The Bobcats had zero draft picks, but hey, neither did the Cavs. The difference? The Bobcats need a lot more help.

Best Team Drafts

1. Washington Wizards

The Wizards had the best draft this year and not only because of John Wall; although in this case, it does help to have the first overall pick. The Wizards also grabbed Trevor Booker from Clemson, who's strength and athleticism made him my favorite big man in this class, with all of his NBA potential. Here's to filling major roster voids.

2. Oklahoma City Thunder

The Thunder were not in the lottery for the first time since moving to OKC, but didn't disappoint in 2010. The Thunder are deep and young at all positions besides center, a major missing component imperative for Western Conference success. The Thunder traded two picks for AP 1st team All-American center Cole Aldrich from Kansas, and later got 7'1'' center Tibor Pleiss from Germany. Rebuilding? Not anymore. The Thunder just inserted the final piece in a four year puzzle.

3. Miami Heat

The Heat avoided first round picks, and guaranteed contracts, which is what they set out to do. However, what they picked up in the second round was nothing to overlook. Dexter Pittman, Jarvis Varnardo, and Da'sean Butler are all players that can make a run at the Heat roster and have a positive impact next season. More importantly, the Heat can now use their money as they so choose.

4. Philadelphia 76ers

The hometown Sixers got the draft's most complete player in Evan Turner second overall. With no other picks in the entire draft, they were given no opportunity to later screw up.

5. Kentucky Wildcats

Not a pro team, but Kentucky made history Thursday night. Daniel Orton, Eric Bledsoe, Patrick Patterson, Demarcus Cousins, and John Wall all made history Thursday night, when five players from the same school were drafted in the first round for the first time in draft history. Congrats to Jon Calipari, John Wall and Co., and the University of Kentucky.

Lastly, I have a burning question for anyone who can answer. Why was Sharon Collins not drafted? First team All-American point guard, with a good size and skill set, and not even the second round? If there is a catch, please alert me. This an impressive, exciting draft, but pondering the status of Collins made it all a little less enjoyable.

JD

One Man's Triumph and The Parody-less League

For the second straight year, mid June has proved that Kobe can do it without Shaq; whoopdie doo. Going into Game 7 of the NBA Finals last night we knew two things; either the Lakers would capture their fifteenth NBA title, or the Celtics would capture their nineteenth. So to draw a conclusion, after forty eight minutes of basketball there would be old news. Don't get me wrong, there were stories that were intriguing, even to the NBA fan faithful enough to be watching in June after months of dry, lazy basketball . The emergence of Rajon Rondo, the age and glory of the Celtics core players, Kobe's fifth, Jackson's eleventh, but in the end it seemed like the main story was all too familiar. Since 1984, only one team (the Miami Heat) has won an NBA Championship and only won once. Otherwise the Celtics have won three, LA eight, Chicago six, San Antonio four, Pistons three, and the Rockets two, when they repeated in the mid 90's. It has become a protocol, not a rarity, to repeat, and every year the faces in the playoff crowd are not something we can predict but a mere constant that wraps up the NBA year. So when Kobe Bryant ran down the loose ball tossed by Lamar Odom and threw his arms in the air, it could of been Paul Pierce or Rajon Rondo and I would have felt the same way. I wasn't grieving for the Celtics when the Lakers paraded around the Staples Center wood, but rather the league as a whole. A league that yearns for parody, that Thursday night, regardless of the score, took yet another step in the wrong direction.

The second part of my NBA wrap up strays away from my woes for the league and speaks to a story that is possibly inspirational, but most certainly ignored. And that is the triumph of Ron Artest. As a longtime fan of Artest, which may be a sports minority, I couldn't help but smile at him coming full circle in the NBA; from the brawl of Auburn Hills to an NBA Champion. Following his year long suspension from the league, Artest journeyed from Sacramento to Houston, and this off season found himself taking a pay cut and a reduced roll when he was traded to LA with the chance to win on the horizon. Artest played an intricate roll in LA's success as not only a lock down defender or a guy who can "shake things up," when he wrestled

Paul Pierce to the wood on the first play of the series, but also a clutch player on the offensive end; hitting a buzzer beater in Game 5 against Phoenix in the Conference Finals, and ultimately the three that would ice Game 7 and end any thoughts of a Boston comeback. In his post game interview Artest thanks his hood, and then his psychiatrist, then ranted about his rap single called "Champion, now he was one; the NBA, where amazing happens.

JD

The Ultimate Goal: Unite Us

I am a closet soccer fan. Closet meaning that I come out every four years, tirelessly watch soccer for a month, and than hide my fan hood until the next World Cup rolls around. The World Cup, which is knocking on the world's doorstep, is the biggest global sports event that unites 32 nations as well as soccer fans everywhere, for one month of heart pounding competition. When Germans shake the hands of Frenchmen, and Koreans shake the hands of Argentines the World Cup is more than just soccer; more than just a game. The World Cup puts men of different racial, cultural, and economic backgrounds onto the same stage, as they compete not only for goals, wins, and the famous golden trophy; but for social change and ultimate world unity, that is just above the horizon.

South Africa, a country who's history is plagued with countless years of racial prejudice, tension, and division, plays host to the very event that contradicts its own past. How fitting that a country that has spent so long mending its own wounds, can now assist the world with its facilities and unimaginable insight. The South African soccer team itself, is the negation of what so many men before have tried to prevent; South Africa being represented by black men. Years from apartheid South Africa, where blacks were legally inferior, they are still fighting the same fight today. With racial turmoil that still remains, hope can be drawn from this year's World Cup venue and the team it has produced.

All of the countries in this years World Cup have found themselves engaged in some sort of war or conflict in their history. In the upcoming month, all can be put aside. As a sport that takes back seat to the "big four" in America, soccer is about to take hold of the world and bless us all with its versatility and grace. A Universal Language in the form of a game; a game, that can change the world.

JD

They Need Us

I am a devout Philadelphia Sports fan and I will be the first to tell you that I am a part of one of the most passionate and intense fan bases in the world. As a serious advocate for Philadelphia fans as well as all Philadelphia Sports, I have not only been troubled by the recent play of the Phillies but how the fan base has responded as well.

I was at the game against the Padres on Sunday and with the game tied in the eighth inning a good amount of fans got up and left. It was a few too many fans to think that they all had somewhere to go, but I didn't think much of it. With the Phillies coming up in the home half of the ninth, even more fans left, not even worried about missing a potential walk off. After the ninth, with the game moving into extra innings the biggest group of fans left yet, and big blotches of blue seats were scattered throughout the park. When the Phils had first and second with two outs in the ninth few fans rose to their feet when Jayson Werth came to the plate and eventually struck out. Currently, the Phillies are in their routine rut that is quickly proving to be worse than their average annual slump, and they need us to be more supportive than ever. The Flyers may be in the Stanley Cup, but this bunch of Phillies has given us a World Series as well as back to back NL Championships, so let's return the favor and put them on our back. Philadelphia fans are not fair weather, we're all weather, this team needs us to be at our best, not mope like they are.

JD

The "Right" Choice

Is the fact that the Sixers have drafted players very similar to Evan Turner three times since 2004 irrelevant? Weirdly yes. Andre Iguodala, Thaddeus Young, and Rodney Carney are former Sixer draftees that have size and skill sets that strongly resemble Evan Turner, the second ranked player in this year's draft. Well lo and behold the Sixers have that second pick. An attraction to players like Turner has become evident, but the Sixers have missed more than once on choosing our team's next star. So here's a news flash Sixers, Turner is your best bet yet, so let's not use the past as an excuse to pass up a player who will begin to mend a broken franchise.

Dear Doug Collins; you weren't around last year but I hope that our number two pick gives you a clear indication of how things went. Need a better idea? Selfish and immature basketball, twelve individuals playing a game with the regard for one thing; the name on the back of their uniform. You are inheriting a team that needs help from you more than anyone who will get minutes this coming season and your first task is the draft. You have expressed your interest in taking 6'10'' power forward Derrick Favors with the second pick in the draft; and in theory your not far off. But for this one, let's stick with reality.

2009's selection Jrue Holiday has checked out as a Point Guard who could lead this team in the future, Andre Iguodala, putting his 80 million dollar contract aside, has shown shades of an above average wing man, and Thaddeus Young has brought energy and a clear knack for scoring in the flex four position. What's missing? A big man. So the plan for the 2010 draft should be to get a big man, right? Wrong. If the Sixers had anything higher than the fourth or fifth pick, it would be an appropriate situation to draft according to your immediate needs. A top three pick only comes around so often and so does the chance to grab one of the draft's best player. At the number two pick it is highly likely that John Wall will go the Wizards and Evan Turner will fall into Philadelphia's lap. A big man can wait. Turner is a stud who rebounded, distributed, and scored regularly and in the clutch for the Ohio State Buckeyes last season. If the Sixers pass up Turner to get Favors, the big man they think is imperative for 2011 playoff run, the future gets a lot less bright. Evan Turner is it, the real deal, so whether or not the Sixers "need" him for next year's game plan, the future is always around the corner.

JD

For Old Time's Sake

The NBA is quickly evolving into a one-on-one playground game; but the Boston Celtics beg to differ. Boston, who's average age of 27 hardly speaks to the age and experience of their core players, is playing more like a forty and over recreation team than today's traditional NBA squad. Old stars like Ray Allen, Paul Pierce, Kevin Garnett, Rasheed Wallace, and Michael Finley, humbled and taking pay cuts to get rings that seem elusive as primes come and go. Well these stars are reliving their primes, through each other. Spurred by young faces like Rajon Rondo, Kendrick Perkins and Glen Davis, Boston refuses to compromise as the rest of the league leaves the "old school" tactics of basketball behind. Princeton offense, give and go, pick and roll, mere punch lines amidst offensive schemes that come down to one man up against another; not five on five. That's Boston's niche, their bread and butter; they make you beat all five of them, not just one, which has them riding a lifetime's worth of NBA experience into basketball's June Classic.

So when I say that Boston looks more like a team you could find in a forty and over league at your local park, it is far from an insult. The Celts, who's majority of players cannot run, leap, or virtually stick with their opponents are resorting to playing the game like a team. Isn't it funny how they are "resorting" to a winning formula? Between Finley, Garnett, Pierce, Allen, and Wallace there is 39 All-Star appearances and 66 seasons of NBA basketball. Run down? Absolutely not. Wise? Absolutely. Although their bodies may be far from where they were seven years ago, their basketball minds have only grown stronger which reflects on the young Celtics as well. Rajon Rondo, who broke out in the Division Series against the Cavs, is one of the few things young about the Celtics. However, his hard work ethic, and knack for sharing and selective scoring has him fitting right on in with the rest of the bunch. Rondo is no geezer, but he feeds off the foundation that the veterans in Boston have laid down; they play the game the "right" way.

Boston was demoted to a four seed when a slow season had them placed behind the Cavs, Magic, and Hawks. The beasts of the east? Orlando and Cleveland. Boston was plagued with minor injuries all season, and never really found their rhythm until playoff time. Since, they have not only taken care of Cleveland but Orlando as well. How? A balanced attack. In Cleveland, there was one thing to do, slow down Lebron. When Boston did that, Cavs' fans were forced to watch Lebron take off his number 23 jersey for what could have been the last time. While Orlando provided more than just one threat, there was one above all else; Dwight Howard. Kendrick Perkins, Kevin Garnett, and Rasheed Wallace all teamed up to dog Howard for six straight games, making him work for every point and rebound, and holding him to a miniscule seven points in a 94-71 game three rout. Now as Boston awaits their next opponent, whether it be the rival LA Lakers or the run and gun Phoenix Suns; the game plan remains the same. Shut down their power source and don't let them get to yours. The Celtics never let anyone cut down their source of energy because that would be impossible; there isn't one. The Celtics bounce off each other, passing, dribbling, and shooting as one. To stop their best player would take a psychic; it's different every night. Who will lead the team next? Not even they could tell you, so good luck trying to figure it out.

JD

The King and His Court

Thursday night the Cleveland Cavaliers, excuse me, Lebron James, was knocked out of the NBA playoffs by the Boston Celtics. Any other year the Cavs and Lebron would be in the rearview mirror, and our focus would be adjusted to the teams still breathing. However, this is a Lebron James contact year. So when the final buzzer sounded Thursday Night, and Lebron ripped off his Cavs jersey walking through the locker room tunnel; a story far more important than any Conference final was born.

Lebron James is the biggest star since Jordan, sorry Kobe, so the fact that he is "available" makes headline news just about anywhere. What more is there to say about a guy who rebounds like an All-Star big man, has the court vision of any premier point guard, is on the 2010 NBA 1st Defensive Team, and scores just about when he feels like it. The guy is bigger than basketball. So when the choice is provided to talk NBA Playoffs or Lebron's possible landing strip this summer, I'll talk Lebron over the NBA any day, because frankly, he's the gas that keeps the engine running.

Chicago is ready for Lebron, but is Lebron ready for Chicago? Most rumors have Bron swaying towards the Windy City, but how does he feel about a spotlight that may not always be on him. Derrick Rose is a star, not super, but rising. Is Lebron's off-season decision about winning? Or about image? Rose and King James would seize the NBA as its undisputed "dynamic duo." However, to date Lebron's story is a monologue, not a dialogue, and Derrick Rose is a co-star who could rain on his parade.

The situation is clear in New York. The Knicks have just about licked their salary cap clean over the last few years in anticipation for this class of free agents. Joe Johnson, Wade, Bosh, Dirk, and of course Lebron are the stars in one of the strongest summer menus of all-time; and the Knicks are hoping to help themselves to more than one course. Wade and Lebron in the Big Apple would mean the All-Star game was just a sneak peak of the domination to come. Unlike in Chicago, Lebron aside another super star like D-Wade or Chris Bosh in New York could make him even bigger. The lights of New York are as bright as they come and James could appear on more billboards than any man alive. Not only would Lebron James bring more fans to Madison Square than the last five years combined, but he could be the face of the media capital of the world.

So this one may be far fetched but let me paint this picture for you. Its Christmas Day and warming up on one side of the court is as usual Kobe Bryant with his Lakers. On the other side is Lebron James; in a Los Angeles Clippers jersey. Before writing this off, imagine what Lebron in L.A. would do for NBA Basketball. Lebron has already stolen the "player of the decade" title from Kobe; competition for L.A.'s basketball icon would not only keep both stars honest, but create one of the biggest battles of all time.

What Lebron James is going to need to decide in the coming months is where he wants his career to go. There will be teams that will offer him money and accommodate him with the tools that he needs to win his first title. The team that can do that the best, is in fact the Cavaliers. But is this about a ring? Lebron will be a superstar wherever he goes, but will bringing basketball to a city that has never been a basketball-town make him even bigger? Lebron is on everyone's radar this off-season, and soon he will be able to choose any team that has the necessary cap space. Lebron is young, so building a franchise from scratch like he did in Cleveland is definitely an option. However, Lebron is ring-less, so fitting in as the missing piece in a previously made puzzle could be the best career choice for a star who's legacy is still to come.

JD

The HC: After All These Years

Before I embark on my acknowledgments of the one Jamie Moyer, I would like to make a public service announcement. On Saturday Night Mark Teixeira hit three home runs against the Boston Red Sox at Fenway Park, joining Lou Gehrig as the second Yankee to ever do so. However, with the score at 12-3 in the ninth, Teixeira hit his third and final home run off outfielder Jonathan Van Every, may I repeat, OUTFIELDER Jonathan Van Every. I write this to inform the public that although three home runs is a feat, two "actual" home runs is a common occurrence. So we can all calm down.

On the contrary, tossing a two hit shut out at 47 years old is something that has one, never been done, and two, will never be done again. Each year Jamie Moyer wows baseball fans all across America with his heart, fire, and of course longevity. In 1986 Jamie Moyer was a 24 year old Cub facing Steve Carlton in his Major League debut. In 2010 he is a 47 year old Phillie retiring batters with his "corners" philosophy, that he has held true to as the only pitcher to hurl in 4 different decades. So here's to Moyer. Friday he dazzled the Braves, while the 45,349 fans in attendance at Citizens Bank Park simply wondered how. How does Jamie still do it? How does Jamie, who doesn't throw a pitch over 83, continue to fool batters with his approach that is at this point, evident. Moyer faced 28 batters against the Braves, walking none, and getting one of the his two base runners to ground into a double play. It is hard to get closer to a perfect game without actually throwing one. Watching Moyer is what baseball is all about when youth shines through a jersey that has been worn for 24 seasons. At 4-2 Moyer is in line to give Philadelphia yet another solid year, and when his contract is up at the end of the year we have to think that Moyer will call it quits. Friday night Moyer left behind one of his many lessons and legacies; it's not how old you are, but how much you truly care.

JD

The HC: Doc Halladay-Baseball Surgeon

It wasn't easy to watch Cliff Lee leave Philadelphia this off-season. The instant folk hero who was the key ingredient to the club's second second straight NL Pennant, was an instant fan favorite due to his blue collar work ethic and knack for success. However when Cliff Lee left, in came Roy Halladay, who is making sure that Lee stays far in the rearview mirror. When Cliff came at last year's deadline Philadelphia hadn't seen a real ace since Curt Schilling left in the early 2000's. When Roy Halladay was signed this off season Philadelphia hadn't seen the league's best pitcher take the mound since Steve Carlton in the 80's; now they have again.

Reuben Amaro's big off-season acquisition has lived up to every single expectation pinned on him. In four starts this season Halladay is 4-0 with a 0.82 ERA, has pitched two complete games including one shut out, and has yet to pitch less than 7 innings in a start this year. His command? Spotless as well. In 33 innings he has given up 26 hits and 3, yes I said 3, walks. With Halladay on the mound Philadelphia is elevated to a whole new level that has them knowing that no team can stand in their way. The only question for Philly is Halladay's fellow staff members. If they begin to pitch at a higher level in the coming stages of the season it won't be long until the city, club, rest of the league are thinking about a new set of rings for the Broad St. Boys.

JD

The HC: Here's To Instant Classics

After last night, Saturday night baseball is being put up in the ranks of Monday Night Football; okay maybe not yet. Nonetheless history was made and fans were confined to the edges of their seats as the Mets, Cardinals, and Rockies all wrote their chapters in the story book of Major League Baseball. This weeks edition of the Hot Corner toasts two Saturday Night games that dropped jaws and made us all believe that somewhere, there could be baseball gods.

Yesterday, FOX Saturday Baseball hosted the New York Mets versus the St. Louis Cardinals. 43,709 fans barreled into Busch Stadium of St. Louis ready for a relaxed day of baseball, where they would be home just in time for dinner around seven o'clock. 19 pitchers, 130 at bats, 20 innings, and 6 hours and 53 minutes later, dinner was the last thing on anyone's mind. Not only did the Mets and Cardinals brawl for 20 or more innings for the 42nd time in baseball history, but they played eighteen frames (two full games) of scoreless baseball. When Jeff Francouer brought Jose Reyes home on a sacrifice fly to "interim" left fielder Kyle Lohse in the 19th, the Cards quickly tied the game on a Pujols double followed by a Yadier Molina single. Next came visions of the never-ending game. Sure enough, in the top of the 20th Jose Reyes scored Angel Pagan on another sac fly that would hold as the scoring run when Mike Pelfrey (the Mets 3rd starter) closed the door in the bottom of the inning. While the Mets and Cardinals knew they were making history with every pitch; they did not know they were also taking the Nation's eye off of another piece of history occurring at the exact same time in Atlanta, Georgia.

Saturday Night Rockies' ace Ubaldo Jimenez got in on the fun when he hurled the 243rd no-hitter in baseball history and the first in Colorado's. Ubaldo, who struck out seven and walked six, even had his way at the plate when he singled in a run and later scored in the 4th inning helping the Rockies jump out to a 4-0 lead that would stand as the game's final score. With no outs in the seventh Dexter Fowler did his best Dwayne Wise impression when he laid out to rob Troy Glaus of extra bases; stunning the Braves and keeping the no-hitter intact. When Jimenez retired Brian McCann with two outs in the ninth the folk tale was complete, the first no hitter in Rockies' history was in the books, and the ideal day of baseball was sauteed with something fans wouldn't soon forget.

Has a no hitter ever had to compete for the story of the night? Saturday night it did. To be matter of fact, what happened in St. Louis was far more rare than Jimenez's no-hitter. A 20 inning game ousts a no-hitter out of the top spot of National Sports news; never doubt that anything can happen.

JD

Bronco Meet Wildcat

Thursday the Miami Dolphins assessed their biggest need when they went out and acquired super diva Brandon Marshall from Denver. While the Dolphins know what they are getting on the field with Marshall, locker room performance is always a toss up for him. How will one of the league's most high maintenance receivers deal with an offense where he may be plan C, or even D? Miami runs the wild cat down to the core; but if they are going to keep their new pro-bowl toy happy, things will change, fast.

The Dolphins creativity and unpredictability has tagged them as a surprise team in each of the last two seasons. Tony Sparano as well as Bill Parcells brought the wildcat to the NFL, as one of the first teams to ever consistently utilize a tactic usually found in the NCAA. Now that more and more teams are adopting the wildcat into their systems, the Dolphins could very well be removing it from theirs. Their other option: Ignore Brandon Marshall and his long list of needs and pay the price of being torn apart in the media. Over the last couple of years Marshall has posted better numbers than the whole Dolphins receiving core, and that is no coincidence. Marshall is a super star receiver, but to have an affect on a game he needs to get his touches. Miami will stray from the wild cat if they want to, keep Marshall happy, and two, get their money's worth. But straying away from the wild cat means the loss of a franchise identity.

The Dolphins have not valued the quarterback position over the last couple of seasons solely because their offense doesn't call for one. With Chad Henne or Chad Pennington behind center this year, a good relationship with Marshall will be key. Josh McDaniel will not be there to keep him sane. The bottom line is that the Dolphins do not have the game plan nor the quarterback to accommodate a receiver with that much baggage. A good signing for Miami? Chalk one up for theory, not for reality.

JD

The HC: Carry On My 'Heyward', Son

Each Sunday the "Hot Corner" will pay its dues to a top player, team, story, or moment from the past week of Major League Baseball. With week one games coming to a close, like every year it was nothing more than a chance to make a good first impression, before diving into the 162 game marathon. So without further a due, inaugural Hot Corner honors go to Jason Heyward; who is swinging a big stick, and quickly redefining rookie "initiation" in 2010.

Heyward's 6'4'', 220 pound frame was more than enough to raise eyebrows at Braves' camp this March, and that was before they all saw him swing. Heyward quickly made himself a top Spring Training story when his mouth opening size was complimented by eye opening skill, which would eventually earn him a spot in Bobby Cox's opening day lineup. Would it take some time for Heyward to get settled in at the Major League level? That would just be uncharacteristic of the 20 year old who carries himself like a seasoned vet. In Jason's first at bat he blasted a three-run bomb off of Carlos Zambrano, the career milestone in a game where Heyward drove in four and even caught the ceremonial first pitch from Atlanta legend Hank Aaron. Heyward grabbed the Opening Day spotlight when his first swing in a Braves uniform sent the ball all the way into the Braves' bullpen in right field, becoming the fourth Brave ever to homer in his first at bat. Saturday night, coming off three games where he hit 1 for 12, Heyward showed already that he can bounce back, when he went 3 for 3 with a Home run, helping the Braves hand the Giants their first loss of the season. With aging power hitters Troy Glaus and Chipper Jones slowly fading out of their primes, the Braves will need Heyward as a power hitter who will be called upon a lot to drive in runs and occasionally put this offense on his back.

JD

My Field of Dreams

As a Sophomore on the Abington Friends School Varsity Baseball team I had the privilege of going down to Vero Beach, Florida for Spring Training for the second consecutive year. While last year's trip was a lot of beach, bowling, and bloating, this year was going to be "strictly baseball," the way Spring Training was "supposed" to be. In addition to the practices at the High School our AD graduated from, this year we were hitting Dodgergown, the former Spring Training home of the LA Dodgers. In 2006 enough money was put on the table to convince the Dodgers to move from Vero to Glendale, Arizona. This switch has taken a horrible toll on the Vero Beach economy, but in return has given average High School players like me, the chance to for one week, feel like a pro.

Dodgertown was officially opened in 1953 when the Dodgers were still in Brooklyn. When the team moved to Los Angeles, they became one of the only West Coast teams to still train on the East Coast. The construction cost was 117 million, with Holman Stadium, Dodgertown's main attraction, sitting right in the middle of it. When Branch Rickey signed Jackie Robinson, as the first player ever to make the jump from the Negro Leagues to the MLB, Florida did not respond well. When hotels wouldn't let the Dodgers stay in them because of Robinson, Dodgertown built apartments. The Dodgers were no longer permitted to any Florida golf courses, so what do the Dodgers do? They built a golf course. With an all-white team the Dodgers Spring Training facilities would have been bullpens and fields, Jackie was the one who made it a town. But not just any town; a town far different than any I have ever been to; a town that was all baseball in 1953, and is all baseball in 2010.

Wednesday night was our first scheduled game, 7:30, under the lights at Holman; the big field. We got there at 5:30 and hit in the cages next to the stadium, but who could focus? Our trek to the field was through the bullpen, a real bull pen, and right past the right field foul pole. We stayed in foul territory as the grounds crew finished up watering the infield and sculpting the batters box. We laughed because in Philadelphia, the grounds crew is us. The first thing I do when we are cleared to go on the field is take the mound. Don't get me wrong, I don't pitch; but standing on the same mound as Koufax and Drysdale sent shivers up my spine. I ran out to third base for the home half of the first inning. It was just about dark and the lights had just come on. I looked up at them and they hit my eyes hard; anyone inside my head would have called me a rookie. Someone yelled and I looked over to find that our only fans were a few parents and a team from Staten Island all competing over two girls. This was the big time? I was digging it. With one out I cleanly field a sharp ground ball but badly screw up my arm on a throw that missed way wide of first, and I'm sidelined. Just like that the dream experience of playing on a professional baseball field went down the drain. I watched the rest of the game from the sideline and knew that my week was over when just merely bending my arm made me cringe in pain.

I wasn't going to let it completely ruin the experience. The next night we played in Holman again, same time. I cherished the experience of standing in the same dug out as Tommy Lasorda, or squatting in the same spot as Roy Campanella once had. In the fifth inning my coach pinch hit me even though I was really struggling to throw the bat through the zone. I swung in the same on deck circle as Pee Wee Reese and then stepped into the same batter's box as Robinson himself. That was enough for me. I got a bad strike called on me, down and in, and took a quick glance back at the umpire and for a second, imagined a full crowd behind him wondering where the pitch was, just like me. When I painfully went down swinging I walked back to the dug out swearing to myself, walking away with Strike two in my head and a life time's worth of baseball experience in my back pocket.

The run down real estate and boarded up shops of Vero Beach are components of a recession driven by the departure of the Dodgers. As selfish as it may sound, the departure of the Dodgers also drove the time of my life. Yes, I was on the disabled list, but looking over the left field scoreboard, with the sun dipping just below the palm trees lining the outfield fence, I tagged Holman as my Field of Dreams. Where for just one at bat, I held the stick of something more than a High School utility infielder, when I dug my cleats into the dirt and stared deep into the Florida night.

JD

MLB Preview 2010

While it seems like moments ago that we all had to watch the Evil Empire dance around their Evil layer, the 2010 baseball season is just around the corner. Every March Spring Training reunites me with my true love, America's Past Time, and it puts me in the best of moods. Last year's "blog-less" predictions were solid; with Pujols for MVP, Lincecum for Cy Young, and the Phillies winning the NL checking in, but a Sabathia Cy Young, Jason Bay MVP, and the Angels winning it all fell a little short. With this year's Power Rankings, Division and Playoff Predictions being published I guess you could say it is time for me to step up my game, and do much better than I did with the NFL.

Power Rankings

1. Boston Red Sox

It is quickly becoming evident that there will be a long wait for the sequel to the Rays' '08 success; the AL East is back intact. The Sox, who were an early exit in last year's playoffs got better in all departments. They added yet another ace in Jon Lackey to join Jon Lester, Josh Beckett and Daisuke in an already stacked pitching staff. Brought in Marco Scutaro and Adrian Beltre to round out an all-star infield with Kevin Youkilis and Dustin Pedroia, and added Jeremy Hermida, Bill Hall, and Mike Cameron to fight for the third outfield spot vacated by Jason Bay. But with all of the additions that the Sox made this off-season, the most important addition came at last year's deadline with Victor Martinez. On just about every team the catcher position equals the hole in the lineup, with only a small handful of good hitting catchers in the league. The Red Sox have one of the best in Victor Martinez, and an offense that is strong and can also grab production from the catcher spot is downright deadly. Did I mention Big Papi is healthy?

2. New York Yankees

The defending champs will not disappoint in '09. The Yankees lost Johnny Damon and Hideki Matsui, which seemed bad, but went on to add Marcus Thames, Curtis Granderson, and Randy Winn; lose two outfielders go out and get three. The Yanks sent Melky Cabrera along with prospects to Atlanta for Javier Vasquez, hoping his second stint with the team will be a better one, and also pulled in Nick Johnson in free agency. A-Rod's isn't missing any time this year, and Teixeira and C.C. will be settled into the big city from the start.

3. Philadelphia Phillies

Despite the Sox and Yanks being my 1 and 2, I'll stick with my prediction that Halladay+Polanco=Parade down Broad St. next October. The Phillies, the NL's tyrant, coming off two World Series appearances and a title in '08, are better than ever, with one of the league's best as their ace, and finally a .300 finesse hitter to fill out their powerful lineup. Who will touch the Phillies in the NL? No one, not even mentally; and if the Phillies players can avoid their annual slumps, I see 100 wins in this ball club's future, maybe 110.

4. San Fransisco Giants

The Giants were one of baseball's surprise teams in '09 raising eyebrows with their two young aces, Matt Cain a Cy Young finalist and Tim Lincecum last year's NL Cy Young award winner. With vet Barry Zito and "no hitter throwing" Jonathan Sanchez also in the rotation, what kept baseball's G-Men from the playoffs last year was none other than there sub par lineup. With young third basemen Pablo Sandoval as one of the league's best last year, San Fran's front office was given someone to build around and they did so by adding two experienced bats in Mark Derosa and Aubrey Huff. With Bengie Molina, Aaron Rowand and young speedsters Eugenio Velez and Fred Lewis also in the supporting cast, expect this lineup of misfits to create some fireworks on the West Coast this season.

5. New York Mets

The Mets are a big question mark. With Carlos Beltran most likely not returning for opening day, and Jose Reyes still pacing a thyroid injury, the Mets could be looking at an injury-filled season that left them as one of the league's jokes in '08. On the contrary, if the Mets can field all of their starters, in at least one game in '09, their lineup will be one of the most feared in the league. Not only do they have returning stars Jose Reyes, Carlos Beltran, and David Wright, but added Jeff Francouer at last year's deadline, and adopted Gary Matthews Jr. and Jason Bay (best hitter on the market) to their outfield in the off-season; making that the new strength of their team. The pitching for the Mets is shaky, and that is what separates them from the league's elite. If you ask Johan, he is the probably the best ever, but we all know the drill; older pitcher coming off injury is a classic staging of a career decline. Can John Maine, Oliver Perez, and Mike Pelfrey be effective? the biggest question for the Mets pitching staff, because even if Johan is Johan, Johan being Johan has not yet been enough.

6. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim

Over the years it has become easier and easier to say that the Angels are the league's constant. No matter who goes, who comes, or who gets hurt, the Angels have always put a team on the field that finds ways to win baseball games. Their pitching this season is phenomenal; working backwards, Joel Pineiro as their five, Ervin Santana most likely as their four, Scott Kazmir as their third, steady Joe Saunders as their two, and young gun Jered Weaver as their ace. Amazing. If I had to pin point a definite concern for the Angels in '09, I would have to say that the "smaller" guys who played huge roles in their ALCS run, Kendry Morales, Eric Aybar, and Maicer Izturis, need to maintain that level of play that could be seen as above their abilities. Because while the Angels lineup is good with recently acquired Hideki Matsui, Torii Hunter, and Bobby Abreu, they really is no Pujols, no Ryan Howard, or no A-Rod who will always be playing at a high level, and always be getting it done for the rest of the team. This year, there will not be a game that is won by one man in the Angels' lineup; it will have to be a team effort. Last year, scrappy play on offense and defense was a winning formula for the Angels, '09 will be no different.

7. Los Angeles Dodgers

The Dodgers were not a team who went out and signed any big name guys this off-season, but due to the fact that they went to the NLCS a year ago, and have hardly changed, they are still one of the league's best. LA, has now two years in a row fallen victim to the express freight train that we call the Philadelphia Phillies in the Pennant final, and year after year they find a way to get oh so close, and excel in one of baseball's prominent divisions. With the league's best outfield, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier, and Manny Ramirez, and an experienced infield core with Rafael Furcal, Ronnie Belliard, Casey Blake, and Russell Martin the Dodgers have a lineup that finds a way to post runs on the box score each and every night. Their pitching, with looks that don't kill but numbers that don't lie, is headed by lefty Clayton Kershaw, and anchored by savvy vet Vicente Padilla, is complimented by one of the league's strongest bullpens. Good luck staging a late inning come back on George Sherrill and flame throwing Jonathan Broxton, no wonder the Padres signed Matt Stairs.

8. Texas Rangers

The Rangers may just have the league's most explosive lineup. Power up and down, with a second basemen in Ian Kinsler who hit 31 homers in '09 and a right fielder in Nelson Cruz who hit 33, the Rangers have no trouble posting runs on the scoreboard; especially with a healthy Josh Hamilton and a newly acquired Vladimir Guerrero. The Rangers pitching is what hindered their playoff run in '09, despite an unlikely 19 win season from young Scott Feldman. To fill the whole of experience in their pitching staff the Rangers acquired Rich Harden, the Oakland stud who never really got it together in Chicago. If Harden can post the numbers that he is capable of this season the Rangers will have an Ace to anchor a team with loads of potential.

9. St. Louis Cardinals

Cy Young candidates Adam Wainwright and Chris Carpenter as well as baseball's god and reigning NL MVP Albert Pujols headline this club, who also re-signed Matt Holliday to a long term deal to lengthen their list of superstars this off-season. Despite their star power the key for the Cardinals this coming season is to get good years out of the unsungs; Skip Schumaker, Colby Rasmus, Brendan Ryan, and Yadier Molina among others. Ryan Ludwick who had 37 home runs in '08 and 22 more in '09 needs to continue to produce so he can protect Pujols by protecting Holliday in the clean up spot. If the Cardinals can successfully protect Pujols making it so one of the best hitters of all-time can get some pitches to hit, that along with the Cardinals dynamic duo atop their rotation will be a competent winning formula this season.

10. Chicago White Sox

In a wide open division, the White Sox are going to flourish with their deep outfield, electric infield and steady pitching staff. A spring training motto for the South Side Sox; if Peavy is on his game, the Sox will be too. Jake Peavy has been in and out of stardom for years now, and hasn't captured his potential greatness since 2007. Can Peavy be...Peavy? Well Ozzie Guillen and the rest of the bunch sure hope so, while the rest of the AL Central definitely doesn't. But the White Sox chances don't end with Jake Peavy. With Carlos Quentin, Alex Rios, and free agent signed Juan Pierre grazing their outfield, the Sox lineup is far from a joke. If Paul Konkero can continue to drive in runs and Gordon Beckham can use his awesome rookie season as a jumping off point, expect them to make a lot of noise.

11. Atlanta Braves

Despite the Braves being in the middle of one of the league's strongest divisions, they are my pick for this year's surprise success story. The Braves have an extremely underrated lineup with one of the MLB's best catchers with Brian McCann, rising shortstop Yunel Escobar, professional hitter Chipper Jones, and solid free agent signings Melky Cabrera, Troy Glaus, and Nate McLouth to fill out the squad. While the Braves sent Javier Vasquez to the Yankees via trade, their pitching is still eye opening with Tommy Hanson, Derek Lowe, Jair Jurrjens, Tim Hudson, and Kenshin Kawakami, all five of which who will be the backbone of the Braves this season. If the Braves can pitch, their lineup will find a way to consistently put runs on the board.

12. Seattle Mariners

The Mariners made the most commotion in the Free agent market this off-season, bringing in Milton Bradley, Chone Figgins, Chad Cordero, Cliff Lee, Casey Kotchman, and Jack Wilson. In Tom Verducci's SI article "Feel the Glove," he explains how the Seattle is redefining money ball, and using run prevention as its biggest weapon. That is what scares me about the Mariners. Yes, Seattle has an elite pitching staff with Erik Bedard, 'King' Felix Hernandez, and Cliff Lee, and has made a lot of good provisions to their lineup, keeping Ichiro as well as young Franklin Gutierrez; but any team that says that its plan is run prevention is setting itself up for failure. Think about teams like the Phillies and Yankees. If their pitching falters a game or two they can put 6, 7 runs on the board. If Seattle goes the whole season priding itself in 3-2 victories, it is going to be a rocky road in a heavy hitting AL West.

13. Arizona Diamondbacks

This is yet another team joining the "we need our pitching to do well" club. After adding Edwin Jackson, the only question mark left is if Brandon Webb will be back to form come opening day, and if that checks out, the D'Backs are back to its old ways. Dan Haren is my front runner this season for the NL Cy Young Award. With a 3.14 ERA last season, run support is just about the only thing holding him back from being in the top tier of pitchers in the MLB. The Diamondbacks strengthened the right side of their infield adding Andy Laroche and Kelly Johnson, but will also need players like Mark Reynolds, Justin Upton, and Miguel Montero to pick up from where they left off last season.

14. Chicago Cubs

Just the thought of the Chicago Cubs over the last few seasons makes me shake my head. Baseball is a sport, a game, but Chicago, baseball's Soap Opera, turns it into anything but. The Cubbies added Marlon Byrd and Xavier Nady to their outfield, but didn't add anything to a pitching staff that could be seen as a sinking ship. Soriano and Aramis Ramirez need to get their acts together, even if it means being the supporting cast for Derek Lee who is reliving his prime. Two big keys to success this season are team chemistry and the growth of Randy Wells in the middle of their rotation. Wells who was 12-10 but with a 3.05 ERA as a rookie last season, will be asked upon for a lot, and could be the unlabeled ace come June or July.

15. Colorado Rockies

While going from an NL playoff team to the middle of the pack seems like a shaky call, Colorado's pitching just cannot match up in one of the league's best divisions. Ubaldo Jimenez is still an unproven ace, and Jason Hammel and Jeff Francis are not suitable "NL West" pitchers on the back end of the rotation. The way the Rockies can excel? They need to put runs up on the board; consistently. If Carlos Gonzalez and Dexter Fowler can get on base for big guns like Troy Tulowitzki, Todd Helton, and Brad Hawpe, the Rockies could have a solid lineup this season, and have fans possibly riding a Mile High.

16. Minnesota Twins

Joe Mauer, Justin Morneau, Jason Kubel, Michael Cuddyer, Denard Span, and Orlando Hudson, sounds good right? Now here's the pitching, Scott Baker, Kevin Slowey, Carl Pavano, Nick Blackburn, and Brian Duensing, sounds bad right? The Twins are this year's team that is going to be most frustrating to its fans. Score 8 runs... great, give up 9, not so much.

17. Milwaukee Brewers

The Brewers are a tricky team. They have some of the league's best young talent with Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder, and a solid supporting cast consisting of Corey Hart, Casey McGehee, Carlos Gomez, and Ricky Weeks, but once again the pitching doesn't cut it. I know I sound like a broken record, but through my research this season it is becoming evident that pitching is becoming harder and harder to find. Looking at a team like the Brewers really does make me realize that Tim Lincecum may just deserve his 20 mil. The Brew Crew is resting all of its pitching in the young Yvoni Gallardo. Too bad he can only pitch every fifth day. Milwaukee better start getting the beer ready now, because come fall, there will be no champagne.

18. Tampa Bay Rays

Since '08's magical World Series run, the Rays lineup has stayed the same, with stars Evan Longoria, Carl Crawford, and Carlos Pena, and rising stars Ben Zobrist, Jason Bartlett, and B.J. Upton, making Tampa one of the more feared hitting teams in baseball. However, you guessed it, their pitching just doesn't cut it. Jeff Niemann, David Price, Matt Garza, and James Shields, will soon show the baseball world that it helps to have at least one prove starter in your rotation when Boston and New York roll into town, and roll out with their brooms on their shoulders.

19. Detroit Tigers

Star power is something that the Tigers are far from lacking. Justin Verlander is one of the league's best, as is Miguel Cabrera, so what the Tigers do lack is depth. Miguel Cabrera's buddies include Magglio Ordonez, Brandon Inge, and Johnny Damon; and the fact that their are no other notables is a big problem for Detroit. From Verlander the pitching descends all the way to the point where Jim Leyland is giving Jeremy Bonderman another shot. Austin Jackson has huge shoes to fill in replacing Curtis Granderson, and without him the Tigers will have trouble producing any runs when no one is on base. Good luck though.

20. Baltimore Orioles

SI has recently said that Matt Wieters is baseball's next Joe Mauer. With so much hype comes so much responsibility, and it is quickly becoming a perfect setting for Wieters to be a bust. Looking at the rest of Baltimore's lineup, there is a lot of potential for 2010. With a strong outfield including Nick Markakis, Adam Jones, and Nolan Reimold, and an infield that obtained Garrett Atkins and Miguel Tejada to join Brian Roberts; I am worse than Craig Biggio, but am basically him at the same time. I am not even going to say it; the Orioles lack (bleep), therefore they can't be a contender in the MLB.

21. Florida Marlins

And we have a winner! The Florida Marlins are a team in the lower half of the League that DOES have pitching. Sean West, Chris Volstad, Josh Johnson, and Ricky Nolasco are far from the Marlins problem. However, Hanley Ramirez, Chris Coghlan, Jorge Cantu, and Dann Uggla are far from the problem as well. The problem, is that local high schools draw more fans. Demoralizing? Yeah.

22. Cincinnati Reds

It is hard to label Aroldis Chapman as a sign of hope out of the bullpen but the Reds are going in a good direction; signing players that will win back their once strong fan base. Can guys like Edison Volquez, Joey Votto, and Brandon Phillips carry the Reds, cross your fingers Cincinnati; they say crossing both hands is bad luck? You have nothing to lose.

23. Houston Astros

As Lance Berkman, Carlos Lee, and Roy Oswalt slowly slip out of their primes, so does the whole Astros' organization. Ed Wade continued his trend of signing Phillies players this off-season when he added Pedro Feliz. Guess he figures if he gets players who have tasted success, it may come. But it won't.

24. Pittsburgh Pirates

Like the Marlins, Pittsburgh is a rare case of Home Field disadvantage. The less people that come, it seems like the more good players the front office trade for prospects. Whenever there has been a glimpse of hope, the organization has make sure it went away. With Garrett Jones and Andrew McCutchen blossoming into stars of tomorrow, it can't be too much longer until they bid farewell just like Xavier Nady, Jason Bay, and Nate McLouth before them.

25. Kansas City Royals

You have to hand it to the Royals, they are sort of young. But they are also... pretty bad. Greinke, yeah, he's good. Alex Gordon, not so much. David Dejesus, he's just old. Jason Kendall, even older. Come Opening Day, it will quickly become a motto among all Royals' fans, "It is not about winning but having fun."

26. Washington Nationals

Ryan Zimmerman... your a good man.

27. Cleveland Indians

"Jake Westbrook's taking the ball Opening Day!" (Everyone in the locker rooms head drops).

28. Toronto Blue Jays

"Rzepczynski? That's more letters than wins we'll have all year."

29. San Diego Padres

"Hey guys... at least we have Adrian Gonzalez?"

30. Oakland Athletics

"Haven't heard of Cliff Pennington"

"Me neither."

"Says here he is our starting shortstop this year."

"....God help us."

Division Previews

NL East

1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. New York Mets
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Florida Marlins
5. Washington Nationals

NL Central

1. St. Louis Cardinals
2. Milwaukee Brewers
3. Chicago Cubs
4. Houston Astros
5. Cincinnati Reds
6. Pittsburgh Pirates

NL West

1. San Fransisco Giants
2. Los Angeles Dodgers
3. Arizona Diamondbacks
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres

Wild Card- Los Angeles Dodgers

AL East

1. Boston Red Sox
2. New York Yankees
3. Tampa Bay Rays
4. Baltimore Orioles
5. Toronto Blue Jays

AL Central

1. Chicago White Sox
2. Minnesota Twins
3. Detroit Tigers
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Cleveland Indians

AL West

1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
2. Texas Rangers
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Oakland Athletics

Wild Card- New York Yankees

Playoff Predictions

NLCS- St. Louis Cardinals vs. Philadelphia Phillies

ALCS- New York Yankees vs. Boston Red Sox

World Series- Philadelphia Phillies beat New York Yankees

Repeat World Series? I know, wild. I said it in an earlier article, Hey Reuben, Cheers To a Happy Halladay that it was the Phillies year. I stand by it.

JD