Saturday, April 23, 2011

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.

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