Coming Soon, Draft Breakdown

At the Conclusion of the NFL Draft I will be doing a breakdown of the Giants and Jets drafts.

Some Free Throws from Around Sports

I hope you all are getting ready for a run filled sports night. We have the Yankees taking on the White Sox in the final game of a four game series. We have the Mets taking on the Nationals. We have the first round of the 2011 NFL Draft. For a link to my mock draft click here. And for a look back at the best and bust picks of each team since 1980 click here. Here are some fun things from around sports today:

- A Dutch football (soccer to us) team, the VVV-Venlo signed a one-year old to a contract. Check out the kid in action here. Of course its a publicity stunt but it makes me wonder what is next.

-Ohio State Coach Jim Tressel is in some hot water with the NCAA and it came out today that some of his player were trading items in exchange for tattoos and the like. Perhaps its time Jim Tressel actually gets punished and takes responsibility for running a seriously unethical football program.

-Bartolo Colon turned back the clock last night and went 8 innings, allowing 1 run and striking out 6. He was able to get out of a bases loaded jam with nobody out without giving up a run. He looks poised and focused out there. Maybe he is just relaxed knowing he doesn't have to face A-Rod anymore.

-I have a feeling that there will be the customary run on quarterbacks in the first round. I don't see any single QB being worth a first rounder but there will be teams going out there and wasting picks. Then, they will rush these young kids into starting roles and boom, they will be done. What a shame.

- If some offensive linemen start to go early I can see a run on them as well. There is a lot of defense in this draft and only 2 wide receivers worthy of first round consideration and there is a shyness from selecting running backs in the first round so if one o-lineman goes it might cause a domino effect.

-The player that makes the most sense for the Giants to draft is Anthony Costanzo. He can slide into a starting job and move David Diehl inside to guard which would also save the Giants $1.3 million in incentives which is due Diehl if he remains a starting tackle.

-Rex Ryan has managed to put his foot in his mouth again (pun possibly intended here) by smack talking the Giants in his new book. He calls the Jets a "better team" and a "big brother" to the Giants. OK, so the past two seasons the Jets have been the better team but a "big brother?" Hey Rex, you haven't won a Super Bowl with the Jets. The Giants have won 3 and been to four since the Jets last went to a Super Bowl. The Jets played in Giants Stadium until last year. The Giants are one of the oldest franchises in the NFL. The Jets a "big brother?" Check your facts Rex. And wait until you win a Super Bowl before you write a damn book, fool.

Well folks, I kept it short and sweet tonight. Enjoy the draft, baseball, or basketball playoffs, or hockey playoffs.

Mock Draft

Hell, if the "experts" can do it, so can I. I'll probably do just as well. There are a lot of intriguing quarterback prospects here but, quite frankly I don't think any are worth a first round selection this year. This draft is stocked with defense and I think there might be a run on offensive linemen earlier than expected. Well, these are my gut feeling picks. Got a bone to pick with a pick? Leave a comment.

1. Carolina Panthers. Cam Newton, QB, Auburn. I don't know if Carolina will actually make this pick. There has been a lot of talk about whether or not Newton will grow into a Pro Bowl or franchise quarterback. There is no doubt about his talent but there are questions about his maturity and ability to handle the pressures of the NFL. Personally, I think Carolina would be better off with Marcell Dareus.

2. Denver Broncos. Marcell Dareus, DT, Alabama. Versatility is the key with Dareus. He can play interior lineman or can be a pass rushing defensive end. The Broncos need a lot of help in a lot of areas. Dareus is probably the safest pick the Broncos can make.

3. Buffalo Bills. Vonn Miller, LB, Texas A&M. Blaine Gabbert is still a possibility here but #3 is just too early for a QB who has not played in a pro-style offense. Miller's stock has gone up and up and fills a huge need for the Bills. Miller will also be able to make an immediate impact on the field, something that Gabbert wouldn't be able to do for at least a year or two.

4. Cincinnati Bengals. A.J. Green, WR, Georgia. Carson Palmer is threatening to retire and has asked for a trade. Green could help convince Palmer to drop his demands as Green is probably the best vacuum in the draft. Even Chad Ochocince has been openly begging the Bengals to make this pick on Twitter, even though it might mean he is gone himself.

5. Arizona Cardinals. Patrick Peterson, CB, LSU. Could Arizona take a QB here? Yeah, but this draft doesn't really have that elite quarterback that stand above the rest. Peterson is perhaps the best player in the draft and is ready to make an immediate impact. Arizona could wait until later to grab a QB or try for one in a trade. Perhaps Carson Palmer or Kevin Kolb.

6. Cleveland Browns. Julio Jones, WR, Alabama. With Green gone, Jones is the next best option. The Browns need help at wide receiver and Jones should be able to offer a good target for Colt McCoy and will block on running plays for Peyton Hillis.

7. San Francisco 49ers. Nick Fairley, DT, Auburn. If Peterson falls to #7 the 49ers will grab him up. If he doesn't and Gabbert is still available, they could grab him but I think the Niners might be a little scared to trust in a non pro-style QB so quickly after Alex Smith busted. Fairley is probably the best interior lineman in the draft and if he is here it might be too much to pass up. You can win championships with an excellent defense and putting him in front of Patrick Willis is a start.

8. Tennessee Titans. Blaine Gabbert, QB, Missouri. After Vince Young blew up and with Kerry Collins aging, or is it aged, the Titans will need a lot to compete. What is lacking here is a future quarterback that can learn the offense and grow. Gabbert is that guy, I think. If Fairley is here or if Peterson falls I see them grabbing them up.

9. Dallas Cowboys. Anthony Costanzo, OL, Boston College. The Cowboys need protection for Tony Romo and Costanzo could probably step in right away at either guard or tackle. I rank Costanzo as the best offensive lineman in the draft but Tyron Smith, the offensive tackle from USC could be an option as well.

10. Washington Redskins. Da'Quan Bowers, DE, Clemson. The Redskins really need offensive help but there isn't anyone left on the offensive side of the ball that represents value at number 10. Bowers has a lot of questions about his knee. But there is no doubting his pass rushing ability. If he were healthy he would be a top 3 pick.

11. Houston Texans. Prince Amukamara, CB, Nebraska. Houston's defense was terrible last year. Amukamara is the best cover corner in the draft. He lacks the ball hawking skills of Peterson but he gets the job done by sticking to his man like glue.

12. Minnesota Vikings. Andy Dalton, QB, TCU. Scouts call him undersized but they said the same thing about Drew Brees. The Vikings have a major need at QB and, unless they trade for one, they will take one with this pick. Dalton will probably need a little time on the bench but should mature into one of the better QB's in the Draft.

13. Detroit Lions. Jimmy Smith, CB, Colorado. The Lions need an outside linebacker and a corner. With Vonn Miller long gone the Lions could go for Akeem Ayers from UCLA but Smith has the potential to be a shutdown corner. There are some off-field character issues but his talent might be too much to pass up.

14. St. Louis Rams. Robert Quinn, LB-DE, North Carolina. Coach Steve Spagnoulo loves versatile guys in his defensive front seven and Quinn is quick enough to rush the passer from the edge or from the end position. He didn't play in 2010 because of eligibility issues. Did suffer from a brain tumor in high school but worked past it and has starred on the field. Good character guy too.

15. Miami Dolphins. Mike Pouncey, G/C, Florida. Sure, the Dolphins need a RB and QB but it might be a bit of a reach for Ingram this early. The Dolphins will be needing a center as well with Joe Berger probably gone as a free agent. Pouncey could fill in at either center or guard if the Dolphins move Richie Incognito over to center from guard. They could still grab Ingram at this spot though or Costanzo is he is available.

16. Jacksonville Jaguars. J.J. Watt, DE, Wisconsin. Watt has tremendous upside and should fit into any defensive scheme. He is an absolute value at this pick. If Watt is gone and Bowers manages to slip this far they could grab him or Aldon Smith.

17. New England Patriots. Tyron Smith, OT, USC. The Patriots have needs at linebacker but none really stand out here. They also have needs on the offensive line and Smith should develop into a blindside tackle. If the Cowboys don't take him he will not slip past this spot.

18. San Diego Chargers. Aldon Smith, DE, Missouri. Smith came out early and has a lot of raw talent. The Chargers need someone to disrupt the opposing quarterback and Smith could develop into a premium one in the NFL. It might take a little time for him to develop but the upside cancels that out.

19. New York Giants. Mark Ingram, RB, Alabama. With Costanzo, Pouncey, and Smith all gone and no other offensive lineman really worth a mid first round pick the Giants might go after Ingram. Ingram has drawn comparisons to Emmitt Smith and the Giants might need a running back with Ahmad Bradshaw a free agent and Brandon Jacobs not the back he once was. Akeem Ayers, the UCLA OLB is another possibility if he is still available and Ingram is off the board.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Cameron Jordan, DE, California. The Bucs need help at DE and Jordan has the pass rushing skills the Bucs need. This draft has a lot of options for defensive ends so the Bucs should have plenty to choose from but I think Jordan's biggest strength will be his ability to fit into the Tampa 2 Defense.

21. Kansas City Chiefs. Akeem Ayers, OLB, UCLA. Ayers suffered a bit at the combine but there is no denying what he does on the field. This guy can cover, tackle, and, when needed, attack the QB. The Chiefs defense would get an immediate boost if they pick Ayers here.

22. Indianapolis Colts. Corey Liuget, DT, Illinois. The Colts really need help to bolster an aging o-line. They also need help on the d-line and since there is no offensive linemen around of value at this pick I think the Colts will grab Liuget who can plug gaps on the run defense and maybe even get to the quarterback. Liuget is a solid pick but could be taken earlier. If they feel offensive line is an absolute must then they could opt for Gabe Carimi from Wisconsin.

23. Philadelphia Eagles. Ryan Kerrigan, DE, Purdue. Kerrigan is a pass rusher, period. The Eagles have greater needs but one of them is a pass rusher from the DE position. With Trent Cole and Juqua Parker around, Kerrigan won't need to play everyday and can spell them when needed.

24. New Orleans Saints. Muhammad Wilkerson, DE/DT, Temple. Wilkerson can line up inside or outside (mostly in a 3-4). He can anchor a line or get to the QB. He is coming out early and he might need a little time to develop but he has the talent to be good for years. I see Albert Haynesworth in him, only better against the run.

25. Seattle Seahawks. Gabe Carimi, OT, Wisconsin. Yes, Seattle needs a QB to replace Matt Hasselbeck but they also need someone to protect that QB. The Seahawks used over ten different combinations on the o-line last season and health is a concern with that unit as well. Carimi can develop into a solid left tackle in this league and trumps the need under center. If they do go QB, could Jake Locker go here?

26. Baltimore Ravens. Aaron Williams, CB, Texas. The Ravens would love for Jimmy Smith to fall to them at this spot but Williams isn't a bad consolation prize. He has some issues but all of them can be fixed with proper coaching. He is also very good against the run and his two-way style is just what the Ravens defense expects.

27. Atlanta Falcons. Adrian Clayborn, DE, Iowa. The Falcons might be a step or two away from a Super Bowl and one of their few needs is a pass rusher. Clayborn can get to a QB off the edge. Scouts say he lacks the burst to get around tackles in the NFL but off the edge he will beat the tackles with his physicality.

28. New England Patriots. Justin Houston, LB, Georgia. Houston is a tweener at this point. He is an outside linebacker but will probably see himself at DE at some point. He seems to be the prototypical Bill Belichick player. He could go much earlier to a team like the Giants trying to fill a need but if he is here he won't be. If the Pats don't go O-line with their first pick they could address that here.

29. Chicago Bears. Phil Taylor, DT, Baylor. If Taylor is still here the Bears won't be able to let him pass. Taylor is a load and a mauler, playing at 350 lbs. The Bears might go o-line but they have no depth on the defensive front. Taylor fits into the Cover 2 because of his sheer physicality. He can play the run and should be able to penetrate to the get to the QB at times.

30. New York Jets. Brooks Reed, DE, Arizona. The Jets need a pass rush. It's the one thing missing from their defense. Vernon Gholston, the last Ohio State defensive end the Jets drafted in the first round is now gone after having become one of the biggest busts in Jets draft history so I don't know if they will go Cameron Heyward here. Reed can be an elite pass rusher in the NFL and, although he lacks ideal size for an every-down DE, he fits Rex Ryan's mold of a speed pass rusher.

31. Pittsburgh Steelers. Nate Solder, OT, Colorado. The Steelers need help at guard and tackle. Solder projects into an excellent run blocking tackle who should be able to adapt to the passing game. He could step in as a starter and this late in the first round Solder becomes a value.

32. Green Bay Packers. Cameron Heyward, DE, Ohio State. The Packers need depth on the D-line and Heyward should be able to step into a rotation right away and make an impact. Heyward doesn't project into an elite pass rusher but plays the run and pass consistently. Heyward reminds me of another good two-way DE, Kenny Holmes. He'll get his sacks but he won't give up anything against the run.

The Curious Case of Kevin Millwood

The Yankees are going to have to make a decision regarding Kevin Millwood. Millwood is set to become a free agent on Sunday night if he isn't brought up to the Major Leagues. Millwood has been working his way through the Yankees minor league system, trying to get his arm in shape to possibly take a spot in the Yankees rotation. So far, Millwood has had a mixed bag in the minors. He has posted a 2-0 record and 1.29 ERA, one start each in AA Trenton and AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. However, those numbers are deceiving because he has struck out 6 and walked 5 and his fastball hovers around 85 MPH. Can he survive at the Major League level with a K/BB ratio lacking any disparity? Can he fool hitters with an 85 MPH fastball?

These are questions the Yankees need answers to as they race towards Sunday's deadline. So far, reclamation projects like Bartolo Colon and Freddy Garcia have been successful for the Yankees. Colon has shown a good fastball while Garcia has pitched very well while throwing between 85-97 MPH with his fastball. Could Millwood survive as Garcia has? Possibly. But if Millwood can't find the strike zone with his stuff he will get shelled in the Majors, especially in the AL East. Walking 5 minor league hitters in two starts is not exactly encouraging. However, that could be based on him trying to get his arm in shape, or trying to master his offspeed stuff. Whatever the reason, Millwood won't stay with the Yankees past Sunday if he isn't called up. After all, he was reluctant to sign a minor league deal with the Yankees, even as Spring Training was coming to a close.

The Yankees decision was made even tougher after Ivan Nova pitched so well against the White Sox on Tuesday night going 6.1 innings while allowing only 1 run. Had Nova not fared as well this decision about Millwood would be even easier for the Yankees. Nova does have one more start before the Yankees have to make a decision but if he pitches well I don't know if the Yankees should mess with the kid just for the sake of a 36 year-old pitcher. Is it more important to have one decent or good year, or maybe a disastrous one, rather than possibly several good years from Nova?

If I were in Brian Cashman's position I would not risk ruining the progress Nova has made, and will continue to make, as he gains experience. Millwood was terrible last season for the Orioles where he went 4-16 with a 5.10 ERA, 1.51 WHIP, 65 BB's, and 132 K's. He allowed 223 hits in 190.2 innings which isn't good, even without the 65 BB's. Millwood is not anywhere near the pitcher he was for the Braves, and the Yankees have already rolled the dice twice on two aged veterans in Garcia and Colon. Do they really need a third? Or does Brian Cashman want Millwood around so that he has pitching depth? Does he think Nova would be better off in the bullpen or stashed at AAA in case one of the aged three breaks down? That would be a wise plan but you can't run your team based upon injuries that haven't happened yet. Or can you? Brian Cashman has a decision to make and the time is rapidly approaching for it to be made.

The Blitz

Some quick hits on some happenings around the sports world.

-Golfer Ian Poulter had a haunting experience in his Hilton Head, SC rental home.

-The Milwaukee Brewers might have a new mascot. I guess that is one way to get rid of a pigeon problem.

-Jesus Montero left Sunday's game early after taking a foul ball to the groin region. Reports are that he was indeed wearing a cup but it hit him just right. Hopefully, there is no serious injury here. He will miss a few days but was coaching first base according to swbyankeesTT via Twitter.

-The biggest surprise of the NBA Playoffs so far has been the Memphis Grizzles. Seriously, who thought they would have a 2-1 series lead over the Spurs? So far in Game 3 they are trailing by 3 in the 2nd as I write this.

-Wondering who is going to be on the Madden 12 video game cover? ESPN .com is hosting a vote to see who will grace the cover of the popular video game. It's down to Peyton Hillis and Michael Vick. You can Vote Here.

-District Judge Susan Nelson ordered an end to the NFL lockout. The NFL has appealed the decision so there will be more legal mumbo jumbo. Judge Nelson prepared an 89 page opinion and if the decision holds up this is a huge win for the players. Some NFL players like Giants WR Steve Smith and Bengals WR Chad Ochocinco have been posting exuberant tweets on Twitter.

-The Chicago Blackhawks have surprised a lot of people so far in this year's Stanley Cup Playoffs, taking the Vancouver Canucks, with the league's best record, to a deciding seventh game.

-Today was getaway day for the Rangers. After the series against the Capitals what else is there to say? Sure, there is a lot of potential on the club but, and the players said this a lot according to reports, there is a lack of "star-talent." I honestly think the Rangers are one or two offensive stars away from being Cup contenders.

-Speaking of the Rangers, it is time to close out the Sean Avery era. He makes waaaay to much money for what he brings to the ice. And mostly he brings bad calls that go against the Rangers. I honestly believe the refs are biased against Avery and don't call what should be penalties by other teams when he is involved and call penalties against him when there are none.

That is all for now. Be safe out there, wherever you are.

Say it Ain't so Phil!

Phil Hughes threw 20 pitches in a bullpen session today and ended the session after a little more than 10 pitches. Hughes was supposed to be on schedule for a rehab start later this week but I doubt that will be happening now. The problem? According to YES Network reports, Phil said his arm felt like it had "a lot of deadness." No pain, just didn't feel like the results were matching the effort.

What does this mean? Right now it seems like it is uncharted territory for both coaches and player. I can't imagine Phil Hughes is feeling good and confident right now since this "dead arm" seems to have no rhyme or reason. Now, Hughes will be off to the doctor in the hopes that he can get an explanation for the disappearance of his fastball.

I don't recall there ever being an example of someone just losing their fastball at such a young age. Could it be injury? Fatigue? That is unknown at this point. Hopefully Phil gets an answer soon and is able to rediscover his fastball.

Best and Bust since 1980

With the NFL Draft coming up I decided to take a look at each teams best and worst first round draft pick since 1980. Here we go:

Baltimore Ravens

Best – Jonathan Ogden, OT, 1996 & Ray Lewis, LB, 1996. I can’t name another draft where two future Hall of Famers were taken in the same round by the same team. Ogden has appeared in 11 Pro Bowls and is one of the greatest offensive linemen of his generation. Ray Lewis has been to 12 and counting, was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2000 and 2003, and won Super Bowl MVP in 2000.

Bust - Travis Taylor, WR, 2000. Taylor was taken with the 10^th overall pick in the 2000 draft and never came close to living up to the expectations surrounding him. He spent 5 years with the Ravens before bouncing around the league making stops in Minnesota, Oakland, St. Louis, Carolina, and Detroit, although he never made the Panthers or Lions. Injuries played a part in his demise but he still catches the honor of worst first round bust in Ravens history, the first thing he has caught in years.

Buffalo Bills

Best – Bruce Smith, DE, 1985. Smith is only the NFL’s all-time sack leader and anchored a defense that helped the Bills to four straight Super Bowls. He was enshrined into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2009, his first time on the ballot.

Bust - Erik Flowers, DE, 2000. Flowers was drafted #26 overall and lasted just two years with the Bills. He won the starting job in 2001 but was benched 5 games in. He was released the next season and got picked up by the Texans. He couldn’t stick there either and bounced around to Pittsburgh (never played), St. Louis, and Atlanta (never played) before coming to rest in the Canadian Football League in Toronto but a back injury ended his CFL career before it ever began.

Cincinnati Bengals

Best – Anthony Munoz, OT, 1980. Munoz is considered one of the best offensive linemen to ever suit up. He was elected to the Hall of Fame after a career that included 11 Pro Bowls and two Super Bowl appearances. Once he disappeared from Cincy so did the playoff wins.

Bust - – Ki-Jana Carter, RB, 1995. The Bengals bungled this one. They traded up to take Carter #1 overall and one is about as many productive carries Carter had in his NFL career. Injuries played a big role in his demise but he could manage only 1,144 career yards over seven years and 319 carries. Ranks among the all-time great busts in Draft history.

Cleveland Browns

Best – Joe Thomas, OT, 2007. I know it is early in Thomas’ career but because of suspended operations in Browns history when the Browns became the Ravens and then the NFL made the Browns again (confusing I know) there is a decent chunk missing. It could have been Ogden and Lewis but its not. Instead, I chose Thomas who has been in the Pro Bowl every year he has been in the NFL, 4 years, 4 Pro Bowls. Hard to argue with that.

Bust– William Green, RB, 2002 & Courtney Brown, DE, 2000. I couldn’t decide who was worse so I took them both, something I bet the Browns regret. Brown was the first overall selection of the 2000 draft and just could not stay healthy. Green was a mental case with a drug habit. He was suspended twice for smoking marijuana in college which should have laid out the future path he was headed down. Green was arrested in 2003 for drunk driving and possession of marijuana. During his NFL suspension he was stabbed by his then girlfriend during a fight. He has been out of the league since 2005 but did try to make a comeback in 2008. Must have been the drugs.

Denver Broncos

Best – Steve Atwater, S, 1989. Atwater was one of the most feared hitters in any secondary. He went to the Pro Bowl 8 times and won 2 Super Bowls. He stands out among a weak crop of first round Denver selections.

Bust – Jarvis Moss, DE, 2007. The list of first rounders that didn’t make it is long in Denver. However, Moss stands out among the Marcus Nash’s, Tommy Maddox’s and Ted Gregory’s. Moss, however, stand out. He recorded just 3.5 sacks in 3 ½ years before he got sacked by the Broncos.

Houston Texans

Best – Andre Johnson, WR, 2003. Arguably the best receiver in the league right now. 5 Pro Bowls and is the only receiver to catch at least 60 passes in his first eight years. Led the NFL in receptions in 2006 with 103 and in 2008 with 115. Only one of two WR’s with back-to-back 1,500 yard seasons. Not even Jerry Rice did that.

Bust – Duane Brown, OT, 2008. With a history as short as the Texans, it is hard to find an absolute bust. One could pick David Carr but I blame the Texans for making him a bust because he did get sacked 76 times his rookie year and is still a decent back-up in the NFL these days. Instead, I’ll go with Duane Brown who was taken with the 26^th overall pick in 2008. He was suspended in Sept. of 2010 for using performance enhancing drugs. Not the brightest move.

Indianapolis Colts

Best – Peyton Manning, QB, 1998. What? You were expecting someone else? Do I really need to tell you about Manning who is on pace to break almost every passing record in the book? OK. Only player with 4 MVP’s in NFL history, holds the record for most consecutive seasons with 4,000 yards with 7 and is currently at 6 so he could break his own record. Super Bowl MVP in SB XLI, elected to 11 Pro Bowls and leads the Colts in EVERY passing category. ‘Nuff said.

Bust – Steve Emtman, DT, 1992. Taken first overall in 1992, Emtman embodies the concept of Draft bust. Injuries robbed him of any chance to make an impact, much like another Colts bust, Trev Alberts in 1994. He was out of football by age 27 due to knee and an injury to a disc in his neck. Has only 134 career tackles and just 8 sacks. The only highlight of his career was a 90-yard interception return for a TD in his rookie year.

Jacksonville Jaguars

Best – Tony Boselli, OT, 1995. The first ever pick of the Jaguars also is their best. Boselli made 5 Pro Bowls in his first 6 years before injuries caught up with him. He was drafted by the Houston Texans in the Expansion Draft where he finished out an all-too short eight-year career.

Bust – R. Jay Soward, WR, 2000. He actually said “I wish I hadn’t ever been a first round draft pick.” He has admitted to be a habitual marijuana smoker, having used it every day in college. He caught only 14 passes in 13 games for the Jags, only 1 for a TD and for only 154 yards. Soward was suspended by the NFL for substance abuse violations stemming from alcohol and narcotics. He went on to play in the CFL and is now with the Wenatchee Valley Venom of the Indoor Football League. I didn’t know it existed either, much like Soward’s NFL career.

Kansas City Chiefs

Best – Derrick Thomas, LB, 1989. Thomas only played 11 years but is currently 11^th on the NFL all-time sack list with 126.5. Thomas was elected, posthumously, to the NFL Hall of Fame in 2009. His career was cut short by a car accident that left him paralyzed. Nine time Pro Bowl selection, 1989 Defensive ROY, and holds the record for sack in 1 game with 7. Thomas also holds numerous Chiefs records, 41 career forced fumbles, 8 forced fumbles in a season, 19 recovered fumbles, career sacks, 20 sacks in one season, and 3 career safeties. He was as good as it gets.

Bust – Percy Snow, LB, 1990 & Todd Blackledge, QB, 1983. Snow was only one of two players to win both the Butkus Award and Lombardi Award in college football history. Expectations were high when the Chiefs chose him 13^th overall. However, after a decent rookie year, Snow suffered a knee injury during a wreck on his moped in 1991 training camp. He only spent 3 active years in the NFL and started only 1 game in his final two years. Blackledge was drafted seventh overall in 1983, the “Year of the Quarterback.” Well, except for him. Blackledge was awful and was out of football after 7 years, 5 of which came in KC.

Miami Dolphins

Best – Dan Marino, QB, 1983. Marino is as synonymous with the quarterback position as Cheerios is to cereal. He was inducted into the Hall of Fame in 2005. The reason? Holding just about every passing record there is.

Bust – Yatil Green, WR, 1997. Green never got a chance in the NFL due to injury. On the first day of his first training camp, Green tore his quadriceps muscles, ACL , and cartilage in his right knee. The next year he tore the same ACL in camp. Finally getting on the field in 1999, Green played 9 games and caught 18 passes for 234 yards. Almost has as many knee surgeries as receptions 10-18.

New England Patriots

Best – Bruce Armstrong, OT, 1987. Played in six Pro Bowls and has his jersey retired by the Pats. Only two other Patriots offensive linemen played in more Pro Bowls than Armstrong, John Hannah and Jon Morris. Injuries cut short what could have been a Hall of Fame career. One of 11 members of Patriots Hall of Fame.

Bust – Andy Katzenmoyer, LB, 1999. Won the Butkus Award and Lambert Trophy in college and came to the NFL with high expectations. He suffered a neck injury in his rookie year and missed half of the 2000 season because of it. He walked out of football in 2001 with only 101 tackles and 3.5 sacks.

New York Jets

Best – Freeman McNeil, RB, 1981. McNeil currently ranks second on the Jets all-time rushing list with 8,074 yards. He was a 3x Pro Bowler and led the NFL in rushing in the strike shortened 1982 season. Teamed with Johnny Hector to form one of the elite rushing tandems in the NFL. Honorable mention to Al Toon, WR, 1985 who was elected to 3 Pro Bowls but had his career cut short by nine concussions. Yes nine. Soon to be replaced by Darelle Revis, CB, 2007.

Bust – Vernon Gholston, DE, 2008, Dewayne Robertson, DT, 2003, and Blair Thomas, RB, 1990. Gholston was supposed to be a sacking machine. Nope. Taken 6^th overall in 2008, Gholston only has 42 tackles to his resume which he will soon need. Robertson was Gholston before there was a Gholston. Taken 4^th overall, Robertson was supposed to be a force in the middle. The only force about Robertson was that around his mid-section. He recorded 278 tackles and 16 sacks in 6 years in the NFL. Thomas was taken #2 overall in 1990 and started the string of Penn State running back busts. Thomas scored a total of 5 TD’s for the Jets and rushed for a total of 2,009 yards for them. Never came close to what the Jets thought they were drafting.

Oakland Raiders

Best – Tim Brown, WR, 1988. “Mr. Raider” was a 9x Pro Bowl selection for the Raiders. Ended his Raiders career with 14,734 yards receiving and 99 TD’s. He had nine consecutive seasons of 1,000 yards receiving. Led the NFL in 1997 with 104 catches.

Bust – JaMarcus Russell, QB, 2007, Darrell Russell, DT, 1997, Todd Marinovich, QB, 1991. There are so many options for biggest first round bust since 1980 on this team that it isn’t even funny. Russell the quarterback was the first overall pick in 2007 and is a poster child for draft busts. He has thrown 23 picks and 18 TD’s while showing more of an interest in putting on weight than in learning to play football which he will not do in a Raider uniform. Russell the DT, got himself banned indefinitely for violating the NFL’s substance abuse policy. He signed a then record $22 million contract in 1997 and would actually make 2 Pro Bowls. But alas, he recorded almost as many league infractions (7) as he did sacks (28.5). He was killed in 2005 in a car accident. Marinovich is another star who flamed out. Billed as the next great QB by SI in 1988, Marinovich succumbed to drugs and would only throw for 1,345 yards, 8 TD, and 9 INT’s.

Pittsburgh Steelers

Best – Rod Woodson, CB, 1987. The only Steeler that qualifies on this list that is in the Hall of Fame. Woodson made 11 Pro Bowls, NFL Defensive Player of the year in 1993, and helped Steelers win one Super Bowl. Troy Polamalu, S, 2003 and Ben Roethlisberger, QB, 2004 also get nods for this spot and should take it over very soon.

Bust – Huey Richardson, LB, 1991. Supposed to be the next great Steelers linebacker but you won’t find his stats on the back of any Steelers football card. That’s because he doesn’t have any. That’s right, he didn’t even record 1 tackle in a Steelers uniform.

San Diego Chargers

Best – LaDainian Tomlinson, RB, 2001. The other LT, won the 2006 NFL MVP after setting NFL records for touchdowns in a season with 31. Rushed for 1,000 yards for the first 8 seasons of his career. He has been to 5 Pro Bowls and is the sixth leading rusher of all-time.

Bust – Ryan Leaf, QB, 1998. As if you didn’t know already. He chucked 33 interceptions during his three years in San Diego and only 13 TD’s. He was actually suspended 4 games for cursing out his GM, Bobby Beathard. If you ask me Beathard deserved it for drafting Leaf. Leaf is one of the all-time draft busts.

Tennessee Titans

Best – Bruce Matthews, OL, 1983 & Mike Munchak, OG, 1982. Both are in the Hall of Fame. Both protected Warren Moon during his best years. Matthews went to 14 Pro Bowls and holds the NFL all-time record for games played by an o-lineman (296). Munchak went to 9 Pro Bowls and is now head coach of the Titans.

Bust – Adam “Pacman” Jones, CB, 2005. Trouble was never far behind unlike his cover skills. He was drafted 6^th overall, and managed just 4 picks in his Tennessee tenure. The talent was there, especially on punt and kickoff returns but his behavior was never close to that good. He was traded to the Cowboys in 2008 after being suspended for the 2007 season. Probably had more personal foul penalties than picks. Vince Young is thankful the Titans drafted him otherwise he would be the biggest bust.

Arizona Cardinals

Best – Larry Fitzgerald, WR, 2004. It’s hard to argue with what Fitzgerald has done so far in a Cardinals uniform. He is one of the best receivers in the league right now.

Bust – Matt Leinart, QB, 2006. He was supposed to be the Cardinals answer to the quarterback position. He is only brought questions until his release in September of 2010.

Atlanta Falcons

Best – Deion Sanders, CB, 1989. “Neon Deion” is the only Atlanta Falcons draft pick in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. ‘Nuff said.

Bust-Bruce Pickens, CB, 1991. Third overall pick in 1991 Draft recorded just 2 interceptions in five years with the Falcons. The anti-Sanders.

Carolina Panthers

Best – Julius Peppers, DE, 2002. The man was a monster for Carolina recording 81 sacks before signing a lucrative free agent contract with the Bears.

Bust – Rae Carruth, WR, 1997. Ahh Mr. Carruth was never very good on the field and off of it he was even worse. In 1999, Carruth was convicted for conspiracy to commit murder of his pregnant girlfriend. There will be no “The Longest Yard” movie for this animal.

Chicago Bears

Best – Brian Urlacher, LB, 2000. He has resurrected the “Monster of the Midway” image with his play at the linebacker position. He is on the path to the Hall of Fame.

Bust – David Terrell, WR, 2001. Lasted just three years with the Bears and was out of football by 2007. There are several choices for Bears bust since 1980 here with Cade McNown, Curtis Enis, and Rashaan Salaam vying for the title but Mr. Terrell takes the cake based on the complete lack of a return the Bears got from him.

Dallas Cowboys

Best – Emmitt Smith, RB, 1990. Smith is the NFL’s all-time leading rusher and helped the Cowboys win 3 Super Bowls in 4 years. 175 total TD’s…need I say more?

Bust- Billy Cannon, Jr., LB, 1984. He was drafted #25 overall in the 1984 Draft and was out of football by October 21, 1984 when he damaged two vertebrae near his neck. Retired rather than risk paralysis.

Detroit Lions

Best – Barry Sanders, RB, 1989. First running back to rush for over 1,000 in his first ten years. He is one of the most electric players to ever step foot on a field anywhere. Retired at 30 years old within a year or two of breaking Walter Payton’s then-record. Hall of Famer.

Bust – Andre Ware, QB, 1990. Taken #7 overall in 1990, Andre Ware was coming off his 1989 Heisman campaign and a monster year for the Houston Cougars. Alas, Ware was awful, playing in only 14 games and starting only six of those for the Lions. He was out of the NFL by the beginning of the 1995 season and became Canada’s bust.

Green Bay Packers

Best – Aaron Rodgers, QB, 2005. Already has taken the Packers to the Super Bowl where he won the MVP last season. NFL’s all-time leader in passer rating in both regular and postseason among quarterbacks with at least 1,500 and 150 pass attempts respectively. Not bad for someone who has only been starting for three years.

Bust – Tony Mandarich, OT, 1989. Was supposed to be a can’t-miss Hall of Famer. Never came close, except for a visit he made to Canton two years ago when he was told he was getting a bust. Poor bastard misunderstood and was really told he was one of the biggest busts in NFL history. Admitted to using steroids in college. Oh, and the Packers passed on Deion Sanders and Barry Sanders.

Minnesota Vikings

Best – Randy Moss, WR, 1998. He even made Duante Culpepper look good. He was a freak who put up freakishly good numbers. He might have been the next Jerry Rice but attitude problems derailed his career a bit. Still has 14,858 career receiving yards and 153 TD’s, 154 if you include a punt return for TD in 1999.

Bust – Dimitrius Underwood, DE, 1999. He never made it out of training camp because of mental health issues. Vikings swung and missed here…big time.

New Orleans Saints

Best – Willie Roaf, OT, 1993. Seven Pro-Bowls with Saints and 4 more with Chiefs. Should get a bust in the Hall of Fame as early as this year.

Bust – Alvin Toles, LB, 1985. You could make a case for George Rogers simply based on who the Saints passed over (Lawrence Taylor) but Toles lasted only four seasons in the NFL and was gone for good by 1988. Even his Profootballreference.com page is missing information and shows only 1 fumble recovery.

New York Giants

Best – Lawrence Taylor, LB, 1981. LT was one of the best players to ever step foot on a field. Off of it he was one of the worst. Drugs and alcohol marred what was an amazing career that involved 10 Pro Bowls, 2 Super Bowls, 1986 NFL MVP, and 3 Defensive Player of the Year awards and Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Bust – Derek Brown, TE, 1992. He was supposed to replace Mark Bavaro. He was taken #14 overall and is proof you don’t always draft based on need. He caught only 11 passes for the Giants over three seasons and only 43 in his six-year NFL career.

Philadelphia Eagles

Best – Donovan McNabb, QB, 1998. Philly fans hate him but there is no denying he was a good QB while in Philly. He led the Eagles to five NFC Championship games and one Super Bowl. He is the all-time leader in wins, pass attempts, completions, passing yards, and passing touchdowns for the Eagles.

Bust – Kevin Allen, OT, 1985. One and done for this troubled man. Tested positive for cocaine then was convicted of sexual assault and went to prison for three years where he spent more time guarding himself in the shower than he did any NFL QB’s.

St. Louis Rams

Best – Orlando Pace, OT, 1997. Taken first overall, Pace went on to become a seven-time Pro Bowler and was the cornerstone on the offensive line for one of the most exciting offenses ever, “The Greatest Show on Turf.”

Bust – Lawrence Phillips, RB, 1996. Phillips was a disaster both on and off the field. He was convicted of assault with a deadly weapon in 2008 and is serving 10 years in prison which would be seven years longer than his NFL career.

San Francisco 49ers

Best – Jerry Rice, WR, 1985. Arguably the greatest football player ever. Rice is the all-time leader in receptions (1,549), yards receiving (22,895), and touchdowns (208). Need I say more?

Bust – Jim Drunkenmiller, QB, 1997. The 49ers must have been drunk when they chose this guy. He made one start for the 49ers in two years and put up a passer rating of 29.2. I could do better than that, seriously.

Seattle Seahawks

Best – Walter Jones, OT, 1997. Nine Pro Bowls, 4-time All-Pro. Called for holding only 9 times in 5,703 pass attempts and allowed only 23 sacks. Should be in the Hall of Fame in the future.

Bust – Dan MCGwire, QB, 1991. Pften mentioned as an example of QB Draft busts. The brother of Mark McGwire, Dan was nothing close to performing like him, PED’s or no. 52.3 QB rating while in Seattle says all you need to know about him. He was gone from football after 1995. Threw all of 2 TD’s, but only 6 interceptions in 148 career attempts, 147 came in Seahawks uniform.

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Best – Derrick Brooks, LB, 1995. The second first round pick of the Bucs in 1995 (they took Warren Sapp before him). He played in 11 Pro Bowls, was Defensive Player of the Year in 2002 and helped Tampa win a Super Bowl. He should get a Hall of Fame nod.

Bust – Rod Jones, CB, 1986. The Bucs also drafted Bo Jackson in this draft after he told them he would never play for them. Prophetic, eh? Mr. Jones was nicknamed “Toast” because he was burned so often. He played four years in Tampa and eleven in the NFL where he managed just 10 picks for his career. Those were probably horribly underthrown passes because this guy was never close to being near the intended receiver. I’m amazed he lasted 11 years in the NFL…then again the other 7 were with the Bengals.

Washington Redskins

Best –Darrell Green, CB, 1983. This dude was so fast and so good at what he did it isn’t even funny. He was Deion without the flash and with the ability to tackle. Hall of Fame inductee in 2008, can probably still outplay some corners in the league today.

Bust – Heath Shuler, QB, 1994. Taken 3^rd overall in the 1994 Draft, Shuler was dreadful. He lasted 3 seasons in Washington and 1 in New Orleans before calling it quits to pursue a political career where you don’t have to be good at what you do to be elected. Threw 15 TD’s and 33 INT’s in his career and completed only 49.2% of his passes.

Got your own list? Share it in the comments!

Slap Shots

Some more random stuff from around the world of sports.

-The Rangers season is now officially over. It looks like the Rangers were a rudderless ship against the Capitals. Losing Ryan Callahan hurt but someone needed to step up and although Brandon Dubinsky looked good it just wasn't enough. I have to wonder about Marian Gaborik's future in New York after his poor showing this season. He just never seemed to get comfortable. Perhaps getting a better play making center like Brad Richards would allow Gabby to flourish. If not, he won't be a Ranger after next season for sure. However, it wasn't all negative with the Rangers. They are still a VERY young team with a lot of grit. This team will be hungry next season and I expect them to win a playoff series if not more. This is a team on the rise.

-Russell Martin is one of Brian Cashman's best ever pickups. His hot start has helped stabilize the transition from Jorge Posada to whatever the future may hold. He has played in 16 of 17 games and now has six home runs after his two-homer performance tonight (and it still isn't over as I write this). For the price the returns are already paying dividends.

-Brandon Marshall is once again having off-field troubles. He was stabbed by his wife in the abdomen with a kitchen knife after an altercation. I'm no psychologist but it seems like he is having trouble dealing with former teammate Darrent Williams' death. IT is documented that Marshall was one of those present at the fight, or disagreement, that preceded the shooting. I honestly think, from an outsiders view, that Marshall might have a form of PTSD and he is trying hard to live with his friends death but is not finding an outlet. I hope he can get through this as he is one of the best wide receivers in the NFL.

-Kevin Millwood threw seven innings of two run ball for the SWB Yankees today. He never went above 89 on the radar gun and was around 85-87 throughout. It was reported on Twitter by SWBYankeesTT that there was good movement on Millwood's stuff. I guess this is encouraging. I believe there are 8 more days until the Yankees have to promote Millwood to the Yankees or grant him free agency. Could Ivan Nova's time in the rotation be in doubt? Probably. Or a move to the bullpen could be likely.

-So Orioles pitcher Josh Rupe drills Russell Martin in the back. There is no doubt that was intentional. Then, Brett Gardner takes Rupe deep. Brett Gardner of all people. Perfect.

-So, it looks like Jason Bay is happy to be healthy again. The Mets need him to play like this.

-The Pepsi Maxx commercial with C.C. Sabathia arriving "Field of Dreams"-like into a cornfield in Iowa with all the baseball greats hanging out. Great nostalgic commercial and having the three Rickey Henderson's in there is classic. Great job.

Well, that's all for now. Enjoy the rest of the night.

Remembering Pat Tillman

Seven years ago today, April 22, Pat Tillman was killed in Afghanistan. I remember hearing the news in my platoon bunker in Iraq and feeling stunned. This couldn't have happened. Not to him. Not to this country. Details back then were sketchy, made sketchier by a cover-up by the U.S. Army, so I wouldn't really know the details for a couple of years. Everyone knows Pat Tillman, the Arizona Cardinals safety who rejected a three-year deal worth $9 million from the Cardinals to join the United States Army with his brother, Kevin. Pat went on to complete Basic Training at Fort Benning, GA, Airborne school and Ranger school, both at Ft. Benning as well. It was at Ft. Benning that I met Pat Tillman.

After 9/11 I had made up my mind to join the Army National Guard. My reasons ranged from everything from serving my country to possibly getting some money for school. Mostly it was living out something I had wanted to do since I was a kid playing Army in the backyard. As I was gearing up to go down to Georgia for Basic Training I read about Pat Tillman, one of the up and coming safeties in the NFL rejecting $9 million to do something that few athletes do these days, serve their country in the military. He wasn't just joining the Army, he was going elite. He had signed a contract to be an Army Ranger, knowing he would see combat. I took comfort in knowing that someone like him would be doing the same thing I would be.

Getting down to Georgia was an experience. No sleep, up all day, trying not to draw the attention of the Drill Sergeants that seemed to be everywhere and hear everything. When you first arrive at Ft. Benning as a prospective infantry recruit you stay in a place called 30th AG which is where you get all the essentials, your uniform, haircut, get your pay set up, the whole nine yards waiting until you get sent "down range" to begin your training. It was at 30th AG that I would meet Pat Tillman.

My first glimpse of him came when we were lined up for chow. The Drill Sergeants called him out and busted his chops about giving up $9 million for the Army. Even though they were busting his chops you could see they had tremendous respect for the man standing in front of them. All of 30th AG, waiting in ranks for chow all looked at this man that they had only read about or saw on football fields on Sunday afternoons. There were whispers through the ranks as many talked about how cool it would be to meet him or debating amongst themselves if they would have been able to give up the money for this, standing in ranks in the July Georgia heat for food that barely qualified as such. Somehow, seeing Tillman there made it a little more bearable, it gave you something to think about.

My first meeting with Tillman came one night after evening chow when he came into our bay and started talking football and signing autographs. The crowd gathered around him and I was no different. I hastily looked for something for him to sign, the cover of my Ft. Benning stationary. He had a black Sharpie in hand and signed away. Just that simple gesture is something I will remember for the rest of my life. I hadn't been a big autograph collector at the time, in fact you could count the number of autographs I owned on one hand but I knew this one that I just received would be different. No matter whose autograph I got in subsequent years it would never equal this one. Tillman hung out for a few minutes before heading out. Those few minutes would last forever for the guys he met.

A few days later I had received a newspaper clipping from the New York Post from my aunt who had cut it out and sent it along. I took it in hand and hung on to it on the off chance I ran into Tillman. It didn't take long for me to do just that. I got his attention and he came over. I showed him the article which also featured a picture of him riding a bicycle in mini-camp. He took it, read it over quickly, and started laughing. He said he remembered the day that picture was taken and wondered why in the world they used that one. I asked him about football, specifically who he thought the toughest wide receiver to cover was. He said, "There are a lot of tough ones but the best wide receiver in the NFL, I think, is David Boston. But I'm a little biased." I asked him what he thought about the Giants receiving corps, specifically Amani Toomer, who at the time was the best WR to ever suit up for the Giants and Ike Hilliard who was still young and had potential. He said Toomer was good but Giants lacked someone to stretch the field. A couple of the guys with me also asked their questions and Pat patiently answered them before we all had to go and finish our respective business. Tillman was going "down range" the next day and I would soon follow, our paths never to cross again.

I still have the autograph, having sent it home in an envelope addressed to my father to avoid anything bad happening to it. Sadly, to get in the envelope I had to do the tri-fold so it has lost the crispness that it once had. Today, it sits in a frame, waiting for me to hang it proudly in my house. I am thinking about getting a bigger frame for it and matting it with a picture of Tillman.

I don't remember too much about Basic, most of it was a blur to me but meeting Tillman stands out among all the other memories. Seven years ago this country lost a hero, one of many American service men and women who have given their life in defense of freedom. Sadly, Tillman's life was cut short by friendly fire, a case of mistaken identity it seems. Tillman may no longer be with us but he has left us with memories and a legacy and he has given me a few fond memories to look back fondly upon. Thanks, Pat.

Pop Flies

Some more random stuff from around sports for today:

-The Brewers signed Ryan Braun to a five-year contract extension which extends his seven year deal he signed in 2008. He will make an additional $105 million for those five years which will take him to his age 36 season. I think I like this deal. Braun is much more likely to age better than fellow Brewers star Prince Fielder. Locking him up now until he is probably going to no longer be a star player is excellent financial responsibility. There is no telling how much Braun would have asked for in free agency. Of course, there is always the downfall that Braun loses his talent a bit too early, ask the Cleveland Indians about their contract extensions to their young players back in the early 2000's and ask them if they were the wise moves everyone touted them to be. Still, I think Braun should be a good player for years to come and the Brewers already locked up Corey Hart and Rickie Weeks for a few more years. Not to mention their commitment to Zack Greinke. Maybe things will turn around in Milwaukee one of these days.

-With the start the Mets are off to and the hot start for Jose Reyes maybe it is time to start feeling out trades for the shortstop. I don't know who would be looking to part with what the Mets would need to get out of Reyes but perhaps its time to start seeing what's out there. Maybe the Tigers, Red Sox, and maybe even the White Sox if they get sick of waiting for Alexi Ramirez could make a play for him. I'm not sure the Red Sox will though with Marco Scutaro already there and Jed Lowrie playing so well lately. Plus the money would be prohibitive for them.

-Speaking of the Mets, they should make a play for the recently designated for assignment Brandon Wood. Wood, a former first round pick of the Angels in 2007 still is young, 26, and the talent was there at one point. He can probably play adequate defense at second since he has played some shortstop in the past as well as third. Why not give this kid a shot? He has power, has a decent enough glove and won't cost much. Give the kid a shot and let him rip for 500 at bats from second base. It's not like he would be taking the spot of a hot prospect at second.

-According to reports, Kevin Millwood is going to be making a start for AAA Scranton/Wilkes-Barre. So far his fastball is still sitting in the mid 80's, not exactly where it was when he was with Atlanta in the late 1990's. I don't know if he is a step up over what the Yankees already have.

-Bartolo Colon had a nice start against the Blue Jays on Wednesday but I don't know how long this guy can hold up. Health has been an issue with him in recent years, not to mention weight. Throw in the fact he pitched in winter ball and I see a breakdown coming one of these days. Still, I can't help but root for the guy and hope he can stay healthy and keep pitching like this.

-Speaking of oft-injured pitchers, Mark Prior went on the 7-day DL in SWB. Prior who has not pitched in the majors since 4,000 years ago hurt his groin. At least it wasn't his elbow or shoulder. I am rooting hard for this guy to make it back to the big leagues.

-Is there a quick fix for the Mets? No. But one way to ensure future success is to start drafting above slot which means you spend a little more per prospect but, as in the Yankees case in 2010, can actually save money on your first round pick to sign the guys you draft in rounds 2-7. The Mets need to restock their farm system and it wouldn't hurt to adapt a system that several teams are having success with.

-Commissioner Bud Selig has stated he would like to expand the MLB Playoffs by adding an extra wild card team. Make sense. You gotta get more markets excited about their seasons and giving the number one team a first round bye is the best idea out there. If you wanna be the best you gotta beat the best.

-Nets GM Billy King thinks newly acquired point guard Deron Williams will re-sign with the Nets. Man, for his sake I hope so. The Nets gave up a lot to get him and if leaves via free agency the Nets will be set back for another five years.

-Call me old fashioned, or nuts, but I HATE the NBA lottery system. When you're the worst team in basketball how can you expect to get better when you don't get the number one pick. Do you think Minnesota will be able to get much better if they get the number 7 pick instead of the first pick they deserve? Stupid, just stupid.

-Ike Davis hit a crushing home run to deep center field tonight. It came right after Jason Bay turned a routine fly ball to shallow right field into a four base error after Hunter Pence dropped the ball. Good job by Bay not giving up. He could have run a little harder out of the box but not much. I'll give him credit for scoring on what should have been an out. Chris Capuano was also surprising tonight. The Mets just need a bullpen and a young Carlos Beltran and a healthy Johan. But, since that ain't gonna happen they just need to play hard and keep going out there every night. Or maybe Terry Collins just needs to get ejected every night. Whatever works.

-The most surprising thing about the playoffs so far? The fact that a banged-up Knicks team has been able to hang tough with the Boston Celtics for two games. Honestly, with Amar'e Stoudemire being hurt and Billups leaving Game 1 I didn't think they had much of a chance. That's not a knock against them but rather props to the Celtics who ARE the defending Eastern Champs. The Knicks gotta be proud and confident they can beat this team and Knicks fans should be feeling good as well. Even if they lose this series they go into next year with something that has been missing from the Knicks since Patrick Ewing left town, hope.

-The biggest surprise this season? Not the Indians. Its the Royals. Honestly, what are THEY doing with a winning record? I bet nobody can name me 8 Royals and I'll spot you Melky Cabrera, Joakim Soria and Billy Butler.

-The percentage of black ball players in MLB has declined from 9.1 to 8.5 percent. This is a huge downswing from the 19% in 1995. I don't really know what the reason is for this, probably because football and basketball are more appealing to African-American youth today. Maybe its the lack of a huge star to get the interest of the kids. I don't know and I don't know how baseball fixes that. Of course, the RBI Program is a great thing and should make an impact in a few years but how do you get people, of any race, creed, or gender interested in baseball if they don't like the sport?

-Kei Igawa went 4 innings tonight for the SWB Yankees allowing only two hits and striking out 3. I can't imagine what is going through his mind. He has to know that he is never going to be brought up to the Bronx again and with the whole earthquake mess in Japan I am sure his mind is going in a thousand different places. I admire him for coming back to the States to honor the remainder of his contract. Would anyone blame him for wanting out?

-Andy Sisco has not allowed a run down in Scranton in 7 innings. The big, 6'10" lefty might be just what the Yankees are looking for, a lefty specialist. He has allowed only 3 hits during that span and opponents are hitting just .125 off of him. Unfortunately, all of those hits have been to lefties. They are hitting .273 off of him. How about a righty specialist?

Well, that's all from me tonight. Enjoy whatever sports are still on. If not, enjoy the replay of the Mets, it was a good game.

Line Drives

Just some quick hits from around the sports world tonight.

-The Yankees must be promising Bartolo Colon extra cookies for every out he gets and a free pie for every strikeout.

-Speaking of larger Yankee pitchers, how did they feed the Yankees at Spring Training this year with C.C. Sabathia, Bartolo Colon, and David Wells "running" around. All that was missing was Sidney Ponson, Charlie Hayes, and Cecil Fielder. What is it with fat Yankees?

-An absolute heartbreaking loss by the Rangers tonight. Being up 3-0 going into the third period and then watching that lead slip away and to lose on Marian Gaborik setting up Washington's Chimera for an easy goal. It will be hard to bounce back now down 3-1. Unless the Rangers find the magic pixie dust the Caps used on the Rangers to come back a couple of years ago.

-Speaking of the Garden, can there be anymore heartbreak for the teams that play there? Ask the Knicks. Two games they had a chance to win it, two games Boston has managed to find a way to win, or the Knicks have found a way to lose. Take your pick.

-Major League Baseball has taken over financial control of the Dodgers because of the whole McCourt divorce mess. Well, Mets fan, there are owners worse than the Wilpon's out there.

-Ian Kennedy and Mark Melancon both got the win tonight for the Diamondbacks and Astros. Tyler Clippard got a hold for the Nationals. Jose Contreras got the save for the Phillies.Dustin Moseley pitched six innings of 5 hit, 1 run (unearned) ball and is sporting a 1.40 ERA (but is 0-3) for the Padres. Looks like it was good to be a former Yankee pitcher today.

-Jesus Montero has only played in 11 games so far this year and has six three hit games already. That is 22 hits in 52 at bats for a .423 AVG with 4 dubs and a homer. Now if only the guys could get on base ahead of him he would be piling up the RBI's instead of the lowly 3 he has now.

-Roger Goodell said he plans on the NFL playing a full schedule this season but talks between the two sides were adjourned until May 16th. Wait, what?

-The NFL Draft is coming up soon. I wonder how many teams will be kicking themselves for spending their first round pick on one of these questionable QB prospects when they could have had an absolute stud at another position.

-A report has come out on ESPN.com that Eddie Cicotte, famous for being one of the members of the 1919 Black Sox, apparently wrote that the Black Sox got the idea from the 1918 Chicago Cubs. Whoa, imagine corruption in Chicago! Noooo. Sense the sarcasm.

-Jared Weaver is looking like an early favorite for the AL Cy Young, going 5-0 with a 1.23 ERA after getting the complete game against Texas.

-Harvey Updyke, Jr., the Alabama fan accused of poisoning the trees at Auburn claims he was attacked. I don't understand getting this passionate about sports, on any level. First, this 62 year old dude kills trees that are a symbol of pride at Auburn. Then some jackass, or jackasses, apparently attacks this jackass. Really? This is what Americans get their blood boiled over about? Not gas prices rocketing out of control, not the unemployment rate, not the home foreclosures. College football. Wow. What the hell is next?

-Think the Rangers are missing Ryan Callahan? They just seem to be lacking the drive that Cally brings.

-I'm reading The Big Bam: The Life and Times of Babe Ruth by Leigh Montville and can't help but wonder how Babe Ruth would be received in today's media frenzy of a world. Fun book by the way. If you have an interest in baseball history, Babe Ruth, or the early Yankees this is a must read.

Anyway, that's all I got for tonight. Feel free to leave a comment. Just click on the comments button at the end here.

Following the NFL Labor Dispute is Laborious

I don't know how many of you have been following, or trying to follow, the NFL labor dispute but it is extremely...how can I put this...well, its annoying. I don't know if you have taken sides yet but I find it very hard to do so. No, I'm not complaining about these people making money. They are both talented, in the players case, and smart enough, in the owners case, to make the money. And it us, the fans, who ultimately put that money in their pockets. I will never begrudge anyone for trying to make a living, it just isn't American in my opinion. I am no expert on the negotiations but I do have opinions on the matter and I'm about to share them.

One of my biggest pet peeves is this eighteen game schedule the owners want to implement. Call me a traditionalist. I wasn't around when the NFL switched to a 16 game schedule but I would have been against that as well. I don't see the point in lengthening an already perfect schedule. Adding two more games will render old NFL records absolutely obsolete. Jim Brown will look like a slacker to future generations of NFL fans instead of one of the greatest running backs of all-time. But it just isn't about NFL records with me. Has anyone seen the injuries football players incur during a 16 game schedule? My God! Concussions have taken the life out of some players, literally. Some NFL veterans have become a shell of a human being because of the abuse their bodies take on a weekly basis. And I can't seem to shake the image of Rutgers DE Eric LeGrand being carted off the field after making a tackle against Army, a game in which I was in the stands for. It brought back memories of Mike Utley, Dennis Byrd, and Kevin Everett being carted off the field in the same manner. It can happen on any given play and the long term medical care necessary for players just isn't there. The NFL, NFLPA, and the owners must develop a better medical plan for these players once they leave the gridiron, once they have sacrificed themselves for our amusement.

Another problem I have with the whole labor deal is the contracts NFL players sign. Few of the years and/or dollars are guaranteed which means a player can sign a $50 million 5 year contract only to be cut three years into that contract without receiving the rest of the money he signed for. Maybe I am naive in thinking that a contract is a binding agreement. The one I signed with Uncle Sam sure was. Major League Baseball has binding contracts. No other sport has such an ownership friendly contract situation.

OK, so you aren't shedding a tear for millionaires being abused by billionaires. It is more than that. This is about taking care of the employees that bring in those billions. This is about fairness in the workplace. This is about an even playing field for workers and owners. Granted, this is a very basic way of looking at things but no other sport has such a short shelf-life for its stars. Sure, some enjoy prolonged success but I remember when Shaun Alexander was the best running back in the NFL. That was only six years ago, in 2005. He had a six year stint where he was an elite runner. He is not alone. Many running backs have a very short shelf-life. Why shouldn't these players make the most money they can?

Now, I am not totally in the players corner. A lot of them make a lot of money and rookies are especially in this category. NFL teams sign rookies to enormous contracts, especially for first round picks, many of which don't pan out. The NFL needs a rookie salary cap, something that keeps the contracts given to rookies under control. I mean, did Sam Bradford, and this is not a knock on him as a player, deserve to get $50 million guaranteed? Did Matthew Stafford, again not a knock on the player just the contract, deserve $41.7 million? These guys never suited up in the NFL and are getting more money than guys that have produced on the field for years. It just doesn't make sense.

On the opposite end of the spectrum, players who sign rookie contracts should not sign long term deals if they aren't willing to play for the length of that contract at the money they sign for, period. Look at Darelle Revis last year. OK, so he was one of the best corners in the league and he wanted more money. Perhaps to avoid this, all rookie contracts should come with incentive clauses based on performance. That would prevent a lot of situations from getting ugly and causing a rift between player and team.

As for the whole salary cap situation, how about the NFL raising the cap by a few million. Currently, football players have the smallest average salary among the four major pro sports. Now, they do play fewer games than any other sport but that doesn't mean much to me. Their season lasts from mini-camps in July until the Super Bowl (for some players) in February. Baseball lasts from February until October. Basketball from October until June.

Well, that's some of how I feel. Mostly, I am just peeved as a fan that my Sunday's may become void of football this Fall. What are your concerns about this lockout? Whom do you side with?

Overrated and Overstated

I don't know about you but there are a couple of players in Major League Baseball that seem to get a lot of credit for doing what other ballplayers seem to do everyday. Oh, and they get paid a lot more than others as well. I am tired of seeing these guys get attention they don't deserve so I am going to give the attention they DO deserve and put these guys in the overrated bin.

B.J. Upton, OF, Tampa Bay Rays. What exactly is this guy known for anyway? A remarkable 2008 Postseason? He can steal 40 bases? Great, so can Scott Podsednik. Because he managed to hit .300 just once in his career so far, in 2007? The fact is he isn't even the best Upton in baseball, with that honor going to Justin Upton who is three years his junior. B.J. Upton has been in baseball since 2004 when he made his debut as a 19 year old kid. There was a lot of promise with this kid but he has not become the player everyone he though he would be. The reason? He strikes out a ton. He has whiffed 704 times in 2,487 at bats. Not the absolute worse strikeout ratio in the league but last year he set a career high for strikeouts when his plate patience should be getting better. He is only a career .260 hitter and has only gone backwards since getting his .300 in 2007 with showings of .273 in 2008, .241 in 2009, and .237 last season. The good news is he is off to a much better start in 2011....yep, he is hitting .250. I could live with strikeouts if there was pop in a bat but B.J. has hit more than 20 only once, also in 2007, and has eclipsed 15 homers only one other time, last year when he hit 18. So what is B.J. Upton? Baseballreference.com lists his top ten similar batters as: Mark Teahan, Rob Mackowiak, Robert Rick, Glenn Braggs, Chris Singleton, Junior Felix, Mike Blowers, Nate McClouth, Oddibe McDowell, and Wes Helms. Not exactly a stellar group right there. B.J. Upton, you are overrated! But you do play a nice centerfield.

Nate McClouth, OF, Atlanta Braves. This is what happens when you have to have a representative from every team in the All-Star game, you get Nate McClouth. Nate played for the Pirates so of course he was going to make an All-Star team. But seriously, this guy is robbing the Braves of $6.5 million this year. He is living off of his age 26 season in 2008 where he led the NL in doubles with 46, hit 26 home runs, and drove in 94 with a .276 AVG. Every year since then his numbers have gone down. Granted injuries have played a role but nothing about him shouts MLB regular. Sorry Atlanta, you got a fourth outfielder here making $6.5 million. The good news is they can buy him out after this season for $1.25 million. But he can play defense.

Mark Reynolds, 3B, Baltimore Orioles. How does a guy who has 122 jacks in 578 games make this list? By striking out 782 times during his career. He has led the National League 3 times in 4 seasons in strikeouts with only his first season bringing him less than 130 strikeouts (129 in 111 games). Reynolds is now an Oriole, leaving behind the National League record books for potential American League ones. One might be able to live with Reynolds at the hot corner if he were a stellar fielder but he is not even replacement level in that department, posting a -3.2 dWAR (defensive wins above replacement) for his career. Oh, and he is a .242 career hitter who hit just .198 last season. Yes, the Diamondbacks put a .198 hitter in the lineup everyday last season. Why? because he hit 32 homers last year and 44 in 2009? Not worth it in my opinion. The good news is with him at the plate the Orioles fans can expect a breeze to keep them cool in what is going to be another long summer at Camden Yards. I am truly shocked anyone would give this guy an everyday job. Well, maybe there is hope after all...Reynolds has only struck out 15 times in 15 games this year....but has only 1 homer and is hitting .224. Wow. Upgrade in Baltimore? I think the Orioles would be better off with Brooks Robinson and he is 73 years old!

Monster Montero

There is no doubt that Jesus Montero is a big-time prospect. After he was sent down following a rather pedestrian Spring Training he has blown up AAA pitching. Through 9 games in this young season, Montero is destroying the ball to the tune of a .452 AVG, 1 home run, 3 doubles, and an OPS of 1.048. Nineteen hits in 42 at-bats. I think someone might be trying to prove he is worthy of the big leagues! Oh, and so far he has not allowed a passed ball or committed an error. OK, so he has thrown out only 2 of 12 base runners for a measly 14% but last year he did throw out 23% of would be base stealers. Not the greatest ratio but it shows 14% is not likely to continue. Just for comparisons, Mike Piazza threw out 23% of base runners for his career, with 35% being thrown out in his first full season. What it shows is teams can survive with a catcher who is not adept at throwing out runners. Especially when the man behind the plate is putting up ridiculous offensive numbers.

Montero's stock took a hit when he didn't make the team out of Spring Training. I don't know why the prospect gurus would sour on a kid, and he really he still is just a kid at 21, because of a poor Spring Training. This kid is going to hit in the big leagues. He has the opposite field power necessary to succeed and the plate discipline to make pitchers pay. He doesn't have a high walk rate nor does he have a ridiculous strikeout rate so prevalent in many prospects. For his minor league career, Montero has walked 123 times and struck out 244 times (including his 9 games this season) in 1,617 plate appearances. In other words, the kid puts the ball in play and does so often as evidenced by 468 hits.

Rest easy Yankee fans, this young man will be in the Bronx delighting crowds for years to come. Right now, there is no need to rush him with Russell Martin performing so well. Be patient, he will be a Yankee next season, if Brian Cashman doesn't trade him, which he shouldn't do unless he is getting a young, already established ace. The key to building a team starts up the middle. Catcher, second base, shortstop, and center field, and of course pitching, pitching, pitching. Finding a catcher who can hit like Montero is impossible. And if catcher isn't going to be his Big League position? Well, finding a hitter like Montero is a rare find and the Yankees should watch this gem mature on their own diamond, they will be much richer for it.

Is this a problem?

So, I am taking a break from the sportsworld and dealing with its other aspect, sports cards. I don't know how many of you collect, or have collected cards, but I think I may actually have a problem. I might say that tongue in cheek but I might be serious. Card collecting has represented two things I love, and love a lot, history and sports. The back of a baseball card includes all of the vital statistics that a player has compiled over the years. Every hit, every pitch, every out, every touchdown, every play is neatly recorded on the back of a small 3.5"x 2.5" piece of a cardboard. Growing up I would wonder what was behind the picture on the front. Was it a hit, a touchdown pass, did the layup go in? I thought I grew away from my hobby right around the time my dad sold his house in 2003. Then I went to Iraq. Cards were nowhere near the top of my priority list. However, when I came home and moved to PA I found a comfort in my cards, and a comfort reliving my childhood with each pack I opened. I would find boxes of late 1980's Topps cards on eBay for dirt cheap and rip into them, only to put them in another box after taking out the great rookie cards and the like. Then I discovered another passion, sending these pieces of cardboard out to the players to get signed.

Enter my new hobby. I still collect cards (though I have slowed down due to life) but I have mostly been collecting autographs on these treasured pieces of cardboard. I have sent to home addresses, scoured the internet for ways to get the most evasive stars, and have filled the pages of binders with thousands of autographs. Currently, I am on a hiatus from this hobby as well since I am currently living in an apartment that my wife and I never considered a permanent residence. I didn't want to trust the U.S. Postal Service to keep trying to forward on my potential autographed-filled self-addressed stamped envelope.

My main focus in collecting autographed baseball cards is to collect the autograph of every living Yankee and New York Giant, and maybe NY Ranger. The Ranger collection is the toughest because of the international flavor that is so prevalent in hockey. My Yankee collection has exploded and there might be fewer players I don't have than do have. That's a slight exaggeration but isn't far off.

One thing I am looking forward to is thumbing through my collection once more, maybe selling off some doubles for dirt cheap or trading with other people passionate about collecting as I am. Either way, it's my hobby. It's my addiction. And I can't wait to get back to it. I wonder how many others are out there like me. Do you feel the same way?

Pedro Felici-OW-no

Another Yankee LOOGY is down. Pedro Feliciano, who has yet to pitch for the Yankees after signing a 2 year, $8 million this past offseason has been diagnosed with a torn shoulder capsule according to Ben Shpigel on Twitter. This could mean season ending (did it even begin) shoulder surgery. I believe this is the same injury that Chien Ming Wang suffered from only a couple of years ago and he still has yet to make it all the way back. If he does have a torn shoulder capsule then Feliciano will likely never suit up for the Yankees during this current contract.

Much has been made between Brian Cashman and Joe Girardi taking potshots at the Mets for "abusing" Feliciano. My reply to them, you gave him the two year deal. Maybe the Mets knew something when they only offered Feliciano, who has led the majors in appearances the last three seasons, a one year deal. Last season, Feliciano appeared in 92 games! 92! Granted, he only threw 62.2 innings but he appeared in over half of the Mets games last season. That is not good for anyone's shoulder or elbow. The fact of the matter is Feliciano is another reliever that Brian Cashman has swung and missed on. Nothing about Feliciano really popped out. He was good against left-handed batters, holding them to a .214 career average against but $4 million per is grossly overpaying for a couple of outs every other day. Now, they won't even get that.

Personally, I am not a fan of LOOGY's. They severely limit the flexibility of a bullpen because they can only get one type of hitter out and can tax the rest of a bullpen because they can only face one to two hitters a game. I am a believer in maximum roster flexibility. There is only one specialist in a bullpen and that should be the closer who only pitches when you have a lead. Granted, certain situations allow for a LOOGY, but I wouldn't be paying $4 million per year for one.

Brian Cashman has yet to learn his lesson when it comes to paying big bucks to relievers. He gets a pass for Rafael Soriano because it was the Steinbrenner's and their braintrust that pushed for him. However, Kyle Farnsworth, Steve Karsay, Damaso Marte (another LOOGY on the Yankee DL), Antonio Osuna, Juan Acevedo, Felix Heredia, Paul Quantrill, etc. Relievers are volatile. You are better off developing your own relief corps through a deep farm system than you are paying big dollars for a bullpen arm. The only thing big contracts given to relievers does to your team is handicap it. Sure, once in a while you get a viable arm like a Chris Hammond was for a year. The Yankees have, for some reason, been hesitant to give their own relievers a chance and like to import used up arms for more money. The Yankees need to learn the lesson, and quickly.

Perhaps Brian Cashman forgot the lesson of Scott Proctor and how using a reliever every other day isn't good for them. Or maybe, the Red Sox getting two excellent left-handed hitters in Carl Crawford and Adrian Gonzalez scared him into thinking he had to counter that. Whatever the case, consider this Mets 1, Brian Cashman 0.

To Trade or Not to Trade

SI's Jon Heyman reported today that a rival GM said he would trade Felix Hernandez to the Yankees for Jesus Montero, Ivan Nova, Manny Banuelos, and Dellin Betances. I figured this would make a fun post to debate whether or not this makes sense for the Yankees.

First, we all know what King Felix is capable of. He already has one Cy Young award under his belt and just turned 25. Still, at 25, Felix has 1,176.2 innings on his electric right arm. Does that mean anything? Well, no not really but given the injuries that have ruined careers, like those of Kerry Wood and Mark Prior, one has to look at the mileage on the arm as a possible negative. We have seen Johan Santana, arguably the best pitcher in baseball only a few years ago, miss significant time due to injuries the last couple of years. Santana is probably the best comparable to Hernandez right now. Is that saying Hernandez will suffer similar injuries? No. But with that many innings on an arm that young one has to proceed with caution. Could Felix come into the Bronx and dominate? Yes. For how long? Well thats a risk you take with every pitcher, including the young pitchers you would be trading away.

Speaking of the young kids, let's take a look at them and see if you would include them in a deal.

Jesus Monetero was traded away last year in the Cliff Lee deal only to see that trade fall apart after the Mariners reneged on the deal and sent Lee to Texas. So, Montero stayed a Yankee. So far this year, Montero has picked up where he left off in AAA, hitting a cool .480 (12 hits in 5 games) with a homer and 2 RBI and 3 doubles. The kid is flat out raking. We all knew he could hit but his defense has been called into question time and time again. Is it awful? No. I think he would be better than Jarrod Saltalamachia behind the dish. I also think his offense could overcome his defensive lapses. We are talking about possible 30 homers and .300 AVG from the catching position, or DH.

Manny Banuelos was the darling of Spring Training this year. He is a lefty which is always a premium when it comes to pitching. He also has a great fastball and command to go along with three other plus pitches. He rocketed up prospect rankings this offseason and is considered the Yankees #2 prospect behind Montero. Banuelos has the makings of an ace. The only question seems to be on his height as he is only 5'10" but the arm is there. Man-Ban has the makings to be a Hernandez-type pitcher in his own right but that is only potential right now.

Dellin Betances is one of the most intriguing prospects in all of baseball. He has a great frame at 6'8" and 255 lbs. He had some trouble finding the strike zone but seemed to put it together last year. He could be an elite starter or future closer because of the fastball and command of two-three other pitches on a given night.

Ivan Nova has been kicking around the Bronx for the second year in a row. His problem seems to be getting through the order the second and third time through. However, he possesses some excellent stuff, a low 90's fastball and decent breaking balls. He could be a #3 starter is he puts it together, or a swing man out of the bullpen. He should be a long term major leaguer regardless.

The Yankees, in this deal, would be trading 4 of their top 10 prospects, a hefty price for any player. Personally, I would not do this trade. I just don't feel good trading away two potential frontline starters and a 30 homer bat as young as Montero's. I have been wary about trading for young power arms with a lot of innings on them for some time now, and this is no different. Yes, King Felix is probably the best pitcher in the game now but I don't know if that warrants depleting 4 of the top 10 prospects from a highly ranked farm system. Montero, for example, was ranked in the top 5 prospects in all of baseball. I could see dealing Montero for Felix but not with Banuelos and Betances.

Let's say the Yankees do make that deal and Felix wins 20-23 games for a few years. Let's say, for arguments sake, Montero hits .300 and 30 for the same amount of years and that Banuelos wins 12-15 games a year when he is ready and Betances wins a similar number. Let's also say Nova wins 10 games a year over that same span. Would the Yankees be better off with Montero, Banuelos, Betances, and Nova or with just Hernandez?

As a free agent I would shower King Felix with dollars to pitch in the Bronx. As for making that trade, no, I'll keep the kids. It's not like King Felix would mean the difference between not making the playoffs and winning the World Series. Give me the kids and I'll hedge my bets on them winning down the road.

What would you do? Leave a comment and let the debate begin.

Is There a Future for the NY Mets?

Much has been made about the Mets financial situation this offseason as the Bernie Madoff scandal has now found its way into the Mets Clubhouse. It is not known yet if the Mets really did profit from the Madoff mess but the questions and subsequent lawsuit for $1 billion surely has cast a cloud over the Mets 2011 season. One thing is certain, however, the Mets financial situation is not good and it is going to affect the team moving forward.

Mets owners Jeff and Fred Wilpon have never been very good when it has come to making financial decisions for the Mets between the foul lines. We remember Bobby Bonilla, a huge free agent signing by the Mets prior to the 1992 season. Bonilla played 5 seasons for the Mets before being shipped off to the Orioles during the 1995 season. Bonilla never brought the Mets to the promised land as expected. And now, Bobby Bonilla is still drawing a paycheck from the Mets who still owe him around $30 million. Yes, that's right, $30 million more is owed to a man who hasn't played for the team in over 15 years. Check that, Bobby Bo made a cameo for the Mets in 1999 where he hit a whopping .160 in 60 games. Not that it matters, the Mets, a team that is going to have trouble coughing up the dough to sign their own key free agents like Jose Reyes let alone coughing it up for impact free agents.

Because of the financial hangups the Mets have been forced to look at R.A. Dickey (which has been one of the best free agent signings in the past decade for the Mets because of his newfound command of a knuckleball), Chris Young (looking good so far but he is no Cliff Lee), and Chris Capuano (jury is still out). The Mets need pitching and they have not been able to address that in a couple of offseasons now. Why? Well, Johan Santana is one reason. The Mets gave Santana a six year $137.5 million contract with a full no trade clause after stealing him from the Twins. However, Santana has been hurt the last two seasons and it isn't known when he will return or how effective he is going to be when he does get back. I can't fault the Mets for giving Santana that contract. However, with about $60 million still owed to him and a no trade clause that he likely won't waive, the Mets, especially given their monetary limitations, are stuck right now. They can't afford to get an arm that can offset the loss of their ace like the Phillies, Yankees, or Red Sox. Right now the Mets are a small market team with a big market payroll and playing in a big time market. It also doesn't help that the huge contract they doled out to Carlos Beltran, who is owed $20 million this season, has not brought in the returns the Mets were expecting when they outbid the Yankees (or was it Beltran begging the Yankees to sign him by offering to sign for less money) for his services in before the 2005 season.

Santana and Beltran were legit stars when the Mets signed them. But because of health issues they are now albatrosses and not leaders on the field. Add in Jason Bay and his contract, which the MEts should never have offered given his age and peripherals, and the Mets roster has three players making a huge portion of the money who won't even be on the field. And that isn't counting Oliver Perez's $12 million he is getting NOT to pitch, and Luis Castillo's money for him to hang around the minors in someones organization when he signs with someone. That is over $60 million in players NOT playing for the Mets right now.

It all comes back to poor decisions. Poor drafts, poor prospect development, poor free agent signings, and poor play which drives the fans away are all hurting the Mets. First they wrongly blamed Willie Randolph but GM Omar Minaya continued to sink the Mets ship with some of the strangest free agent signings in the history of the game. These include Bay, Perez, and Castillo but it goes a lot deeper. The Mets have absolutely neglected their farm system. Let's take a quick look at Mets draft picks since 2000:

2000: Billy Traber, LHP. Traber was taken 16th overall in the 2000 draft. Traber was traded to the Indians for Roberto Alomar in 2001.

2001: Aaron Heilman, RHP. At least he suited up for the Mets. Mets fans hate this guy with a passion and he is hopping around the majors as a middle reliever, now with the Diamondbacks and showing some control to boot. At least the Mets snagged David Wright in this draft so they get a pass.

2002: Scott Kazmir, LHP. Once considered the jewel of the Mets farm system, he was infamously traded for good-for-nothing Victor Zambrano. Kazmir has lost some of the zip off of his fastball and was one of the worst pitchers in baseball last year.

2003: Lastings Milledge, OF. Ahh, good ol' Lastings. He was supposed to be the next Alex Ochoa, I mean Carlos Gomez, I mean, wait, who the hell was this guy supposed to be? Oh, he is the first Lastings Milledge. Never had the maturity to handle the pressures and it showed, unlike his talent. He has been let go by the Nationals and Pirates and just got designated for assignment by the White Sox.

2004: Philip Humber, RHP. He was part of the package to get Johan Santana so the Mets get a pass for getting someone to take this garbage. He was taken third overall so that fact that this pick was wasted on this guy still hurts. Jeff Niemann was taken one pick later by the Rays, Homer Bailey #7 overall to the Reds, Neil Walker #11 overall to the Pirates, Jared Weaver #12 to the Angels, Billy Butler #14 to the Royals, Stephen Drew #15 to the D'Backs, and Phil Hughes #23 to the Yankees. The Mets might have gotten the Twins to take Humber but they whiffed big time.

2005: Mike Pelfrey, RHP. The jury is still out on Pelfrey but he has been pretty good so far in his young career. There are a lot of questions about his psyche which is never a good thing for a pitcher but if he is a number 3 or 4 starter then the Mets have something. Anything higher and he is exposed. The Mets could have had Andrew McCutchen (#11 to the Pirates), Jay Bruce (#12 to the Reds) or Jacoby Ellsbury (#23 to the Red Sox).

2006: Kevin Mulvey, RHP. Packed up with Humber to Minnesota. Mulvey has been awful. OK, so the Mets didn't have a first rounder and nabbed Mulvey in the second round. The fact the MEts got Johan for him and Humber and Carlos Gomez is still a miracle.

2007: Eddie Kunz, RHP. Another second rounder because the Mets had no first round pick. Kunz is now in the Padres organization stinking it up there.

2008: Ike Davis, 1B. OK, so we have someone here who is contributing. Glory be!

2009: Steven Matz, LHP. He is young and has already undergone Tommy John. No telling where he will eventually place in the Mets future.

OK, so now we have run down the drafts of the last decade. The Mets, as we noticed were lucky to dump some of these players in the Johan trade so at least they got something in return, even if that something is a huge untradeable contract. Look back at all the Mets top prospects over the years and ask yourself this one question: Were any of them worth it? Where is Carlos Gomez now? Lastings Milledge? Mike Pelfrey, Ike Davis, and David Wright are the only kids to make an impact from the Mets first pick in the draft. Not bad but there are a ton of head scratchers in there. Omar Minaya was not very adept at finding talent, whether it was because the MEts scouting was poor or they did the dart board approach. The fact that there were no young kids ready to step in and eat some innings or fill a bullpen hole adequately, or to push Luis Castillo out before he signed that contract, or to truly push David Murphy off second this year, speaks volumes about the depth of the Mets farm system. The Mets system ranks near the bottom in every experts rankings, including Baseball America who placed them 20th. This shouldn't be for a team with the suspected resources the Mets have.

Firing Omar Minaya and giving the job to Sandy Alderson was a step in the right direction. Alderson has since surrounded himself with astute baseball people so the Mets will be able to move in the right direction. It will take a few years but Alderson and Co. should get the Mets back to a sustainable farm system and a more complete, well rounded roster. The Mets troubles in recent years aren't an affect of the Wilpon's finances but rather their ignorance of what makes a good baseball man. Omar Minaya was a terrible GM and he proved it year in and year out. He did manage to steal Johan Santana away from the Twins but gave huge contracts to players with questionable histories like Oliver Perez, Luis Castillo, and Jason Bay. Bay cost the Mets a first round pick to boot, further hindering building depth in the minors.

Winning in baseball takes depth at the Big League level and depth in the minors to sustain that Big League depth. The Mets have failed baseball 101 in recent years. And now, the Mets financial situation is going to prevent them from signing Jose Reyes this offseason when he becomes a free agent. Maybe this is a good thing in disguise as Reyes has not been healthy over the last couple of years. However, he is without a doubt their most dynamic player and he makes things happen for the Mets lineup. Perhaps Alderson can trade him for some prospects and get the Mets farm system moving in the right direction again. If he can't, the Mets should get first round compensation for him at the very least. Still, it hurts to lose a player that has been developed by this team and has been with this team for so many years, both good and bad.

No matter which way you slice it, the Mets are probably in for some dark times. They need to shed the contracts of some old, injury plagued players. Unfortunately, there is nothing that can be done about owing Bobby Bonilla $30 million, about owing Oliver Perez $12 million, and Luis Castillo even 2 cents. That is going to severely hinder the Mets as they try to rebuild. They will need to put some money into signing draft picks, perhaps developing a strategy like the Yankees by drafting above slot to disperse that money around, thereby signing more kids who can possibly make an impact down the road by enticing them to forgo college. However, the Mets real handicap in the future is going to be financial, unless they shed some contracts don't expect the Mets to be dipping into their pockets for extra cash, because they can't. This lawsuit is going to tie the hands of Sandy Alderson and his baseball braintrust. I really can't see any potential buyer accepting only a 25% share of the Mets if the Wilpons do indeed sell a part of their team as they announced they are willing to do. With ticket sales falling off and this $1 billion lawsuit hanging over the rafters of Citi Field, the Mets financial future is indeed dark. However, with astute drafting and a key trade here and there this team could compete enough to give Mets fans hope until the financial situation is resolved or the Wilpons sell the team. If the Royals can put together a deep farm system that brightens their future, why can't the Mets?

Ultimately, this team is going to have a tough road ahead. If the Wilpons do sell then the clouds start to go away a little bit, depending on whom they sell to. If they don't sell, or retain a controlling interest, then Mets fans will have to wait patiently as Jenrry Mejia develops and Matt Harvey, last years #1 pick progresses. The Wilpons don't make baseball decisions like George Steinbrenner did. They just condoned bad baseball decisions made by Joe McIlvaine, Steve Phillips, Jim Duquette, and Omar Minaya which continue to hurt this team. The Mets, in order to be successful, will have to pump some extra cash into their farm system, from the draft to international free agents instead of giving it to aging free agents or players who don't warrant such a big contract, like Jason Bay, Luis Castillo, or Oliver Perez. Right now, Mets fans have to hope that reclamation projects like R.A. Dickey, Chris Young, Jason Isringhausen, and Chris Capuano continue to produce and provide a stopgap until a new wave of Mets players can arrive via draft and trade. Let Sandy Alderson and Co. do their job and you will soon see some daylight on the stormy horizon.