Thursday, June 30, 2005
Crazy Kenny Rogers
Texas Rangers pitcher Kenny Rogers went Ron Artest on a couple of television photographers. They were shooting video of him as he walked to the field on Wednesday. Rogers shoved two cameramen, and threw one of the cameras to the ground before kicking it.
As of late this morning, ESPN.com reported that Rogers could face assault charges and a suspension from the team. He deserves both. There's almost nothing that justifies his getting physical with the videographers. Rogers should absolutely be suspended and prosecuted. It's not likely, but I'd like to see him wind up in a very real jail, not some minimum security country club. I've toted around a TV camera and I wouldn't tolerate someone jerking with it or me.
As of late this morning, ESPN.com reported that Rogers could face assault charges and a suspension from the team. He deserves both. There's almost nothing that justifies his getting physical with the videographers. Rogers should absolutely be suspended and prosecuted. It's not likely, but I'd like to see him wind up in a very real jail, not some minimum security country club. I've toted around a TV camera and I wouldn't tolerate someone jerking with it or me.
Wednesday, June 29, 2005
NYC 2012 Olympic bid
I grew up in the New York City area, and always thought it would be cool to see the Olympics come to the Big Apple. In fact, I still think it would be cool. I also don't think it's all that likely to happen.
The whole issue over a new stadium has not made NYC the frontrunner. First, the city planned to build a new venue on Manhattan's West Side. But, government funds for that didn't come through. Now, the city is talking about a new stadium in Queens near Shea Stadium.
On top of that, NYC is a security nightmare. With the world watching on TV, and many people watching in person, the city could be a target for another terrorist attack. Security is already beefed up in NYC, but much more would be needed for the 2012 Summer Games.
At this point, there's still hope. If things don't work out, hey, it was a nice idea.
Send comments to seepersports@aol.com. From time to time, we'll open the mailbag here and share the best stuff.
The whole issue over a new stadium has not made NYC the frontrunner. First, the city planned to build a new venue on Manhattan's West Side. But, government funds for that didn't come through. Now, the city is talking about a new stadium in Queens near Shea Stadium.
On top of that, NYC is a security nightmare. With the world watching on TV, and many people watching in person, the city could be a target for another terrorist attack. Security is already beefed up in NYC, but much more would be needed for the 2012 Summer Games.
At this point, there's still hope. If things don't work out, hey, it was a nice idea.
Send comments to seepersports@aol.com. From time to time, we'll open the mailbag here and share the best stuff.
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Baseball Hall of Fame, part 2
I took another look at the Baseball Hall of Fame catalog. Sometimes, it has stuff I actually consider buying. Not true, this time around.
The latest edition is great if you love the Yankees, Cubs, Red Sox, or Brooklyn Dodgers. I like the Mets. I also like the Blue Jays. Basically, the catalog treats these teams as if they don't exist.
I laughed when I saw T-shirts commemorating the game's most historic parks: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, and Wrigley Field. Currently, one of the shirts reads "Property of Yankee Stadium Athletic Dept.". In a few years, will those same shirts say "Property of the NEW Yankee Stadium Athletic Dept."? What a joke!
The latest edition is great if you love the Yankees, Cubs, Red Sox, or Brooklyn Dodgers. I like the Mets. I also like the Blue Jays. Basically, the catalog treats these teams as if they don't exist.
I laughed when I saw T-shirts commemorating the game's most historic parks: Yankee Stadium, Fenway Park, and Wrigley Field. Currently, one of the shirts reads "Property of Yankee Stadium Athletic Dept.". In a few years, will those same shirts say "Property of the NEW Yankee Stadium Athletic Dept."? What a joke!
Monday, June 27, 2005
Subway Series
Thanks to Jason Giambi, heads won't be rolling in the Yankee camp (for now, anyway). His walk-off single in last night's game against the Mets prevented the Amazins from pulling off a sweep at the soon-to-be discarded Yankee Stadium.
This will temporarily cover up the morale problem in Yankee Nation. The Bombers are caught in a vicious cycle that can quickly accelerate. The Yankees are playing poorly. Fans and players get restless. Then, the Yanks continue to play poorly. So on, and so forth. You get the idea.
Yes, the Yanks have time to improve. But, there is ample opportunity for them to do worse. If the Yankees don't elevate their level of play soon, this could be a long, bitter summer. I certainly hope that happens. The infighting would be interesting to follow.
This will temporarily cover up the morale problem in Yankee Nation. The Bombers are caught in a vicious cycle that can quickly accelerate. The Yankees are playing poorly. Fans and players get restless. Then, the Yanks continue to play poorly. So on, and so forth. You get the idea.
Yes, the Yanks have time to improve. But, there is ample opportunity for them to do worse. If the Yankees don't elevate their level of play soon, this could be a long, bitter summer. I certainly hope that happens. The infighting would be interesting to follow.
Sunday, June 26, 2005
Mets' Retired Numbers
Whenever I watch the Mets, I always find it weird to see Doug Mientkiewicz wearing Doc Gooden's No. 16. I don't think that number should've been retired. But, after all these years, I still associate No. 16 with the pitcher who had such a promising start, but flamed out big-time.
The Mets should retire a few more numbers. Tom Seaver is the only Mets player whose number is painted in the outfield. Gary Carter and Keith Hernandez deserve to have their No. 8 and No. 17 retired. They were leaders and stars on some of the best teams the Mets ever had.
The Mets should retire a few more numbers. Tom Seaver is the only Mets player whose number is painted in the outfield. Gary Carter and Keith Hernandez deserve to have their No. 8 and No. 17 retired. They were leaders and stars on some of the best teams the Mets ever had.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Baseball Hall of Fame
I'm on the mailing list for the National Baseball Hall of Fame. Basically, that means I get merchandise catalogs every few months.
The latest catalog arrived in my mailbox recently. On the cover, you see Ryne Sandberg and Wade Boggs, who both will be inducted in a few weeks. This year's class of inductees doesn't interest me very much. Sure, they're both great players who deserve to be in the Hall. But, to me, they're both memorable for silly things. I remember Boggs always eating chicken before games. I remember women going ga-ga for Sandberg's rugged looks.
I love the Hall, and usually try to visit once a year. I'll skip Induction Weekend '05.
The latest catalog arrived in my mailbox recently. On the cover, you see Ryne Sandberg and Wade Boggs, who both will be inducted in a few weeks. This year's class of inductees doesn't interest me very much. Sure, they're both great players who deserve to be in the Hall. But, to me, they're both memorable for silly things. I remember Boggs always eating chicken before games. I remember women going ga-ga for Sandberg's rugged looks.
I love the Hall, and usually try to visit once a year. I'll skip Induction Weekend '05.
Friday, June 24, 2005
NBA Finals Game 7, part 2
Game 7 was a little bit of what I expected. The Spurs won on their home court. Tim Duncan rose to the occasion with 25 points and 11 rebounds.
I was surprised to see Manu Ginobili get knocked around a little bit. It was funny to watch. The officials didn't seem to be intimidated by the home crowd. The calls weren't blatantly slanted in the Spurs' favor.
Duncan should get more props than he does. There's nothing flashy, obnoxious, or thuggish about him. He's classy and he just wins.
Consider this bit of trivia: Robert Horry now has six NBA championship rings. Michael Jordan also has six.
I was surprised to see Manu Ginobili get knocked around a little bit. It was funny to watch. The officials didn't seem to be intimidated by the home crowd. The calls weren't blatantly slanted in the Spurs' favor.
Duncan should get more props than he does. There's nothing flashy, obnoxious, or thuggish about him. He's classy and he just wins.
Consider this bit of trivia: Robert Horry now has six NBA championship rings. Michael Jordan also has six.
Thursday, June 23, 2005
NBA Finals Game 7
Took yesterday off for my birthday. Hope you didn't mind.
The NBA season comes to a close tonight as the Pistons and Spurs face off in Game 7 of the Finals. Who would've thought Game 7 was possible after the Spurs took a commanding 2-0 lead in this series?
The Pistons have really gamed up, but the magic runs out tonight. San Antonio will win its third championship. The importance of home-court advantage in Game 7 cannot be underestimated. Manu Ginobili will put his head down, run into guys, and get the calls because the officials will be too afraid to rile up the home crowd. Tim Duncan will rise to the occasion. On top of that, the whole drama of "Will this be Larry Brown's last game?" will be a distraction.
I want to hear from you. E-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. The best comments will be published here, along with responses to them.
The NBA season comes to a close tonight as the Pistons and Spurs face off in Game 7 of the Finals. Who would've thought Game 7 was possible after the Spurs took a commanding 2-0 lead in this series?
The Pistons have really gamed up, but the magic runs out tonight. San Antonio will win its third championship. The importance of home-court advantage in Game 7 cannot be underestimated. Manu Ginobili will put his head down, run into guys, and get the calls because the officials will be too afraid to rile up the home crowd. Tim Duncan will rise to the occasion. On top of that, the whole drama of "Will this be Larry Brown's last game?" will be a distraction.
I want to hear from you. E-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. The best comments will be published here, along with responses to them.
Tuesday, June 21, 2005
Barry Bonds recovering
I don't watch a lot of MLB games on television. It moves along a little too slowly. And, I just don't have a ton of time to catch many of the Mets or Yankees games.
Even though my game exposure has been somewhat limited, I've been enjoying this season a little more because Barry Bonds has been out of action. But, recent published reports say he's considering a comeback this season.
Barry, do us a favor and stay out of the lineup. It's clear that you hate all of us who follow the game. Trust me, we despise you just as much.
Even though my game exposure has been somewhat limited, I've been enjoying this season a little more because Barry Bonds has been out of action. But, recent published reports say he's considering a comeback this season.
Barry, do us a favor and stay out of the lineup. It's clear that you hate all of us who follow the game. Trust me, we despise you just as much.
Monday, June 20, 2005
U.S. Open
A few days ago, I said it would not be interesting to see people shooting even-par at the U.S. Open. Michael Campbell won by shooting even-par. That was certainly not interesting. It was only fun to watch because a relative unknown faced off against Tiger Woods and beat him.
Yes, it's good for golf when Tiger wins because he's the biggest name in the game. In the same vein, it's good for college football when Notre Dame wins because it's the most storied program in the game. But, once in a while, it's good to see the small guy get his day in the sun.
Yes, it's good for golf when Tiger wins because he's the biggest name in the game. In the same vein, it's good for college football when Notre Dame wins because it's the most storied program in the game. But, once in a while, it's good to see the small guy get his day in the sun.
Saturday, June 18, 2005
Joe Torre
Sooner or later, everyone in the New York City sports scene becomes a target for criticism. Four world championships bought Joe Torre a grace period, but not immunity.
This season, some fans are calling for Torre's head. This is ridiculous. First of all, it's a little early in the season to completely write the Yankees off.
Secondly, he's not to blame for the team's problems. It's not his fault that Randy Johnson hasn't lived up to the hype. The Jason Giambi mess isn't Torre's fault, either.
Fans can be so short-sighted and ungrateful sometimes.
Send your comments to: seepersports@aol.com.
This season, some fans are calling for Torre's head. This is ridiculous. First of all, it's a little early in the season to completely write the Yankees off.
Secondly, he's not to blame for the team's problems. It's not his fault that Randy Johnson hasn't lived up to the hype. The Jason Giambi mess isn't Torre's fault, either.
Fans can be so short-sighted and ungrateful sometimes.
Send your comments to: seepersports@aol.com.
Friday, June 17, 2005
Challenging U.S. Open
Sports are supposed to be difficult. After all, if accomplishments can be easily attained, they're not worth very much.
That being said, the USGA goes a little too far in making the U.S. Open course challenging. "If you shoot four days at even par or better, you're going to look awfully good," Woods told ESPN.com after shooting even-par on Thursday.
Nobody watches golf just to see Tiger shoot even-par. That's not interesting.
Consider this analogy: It would not be fun to see the pro bowling tour use a very tough lane condition, so that someone could win with a 180.
Care to sound off on what you read here? Send comments to seepersports@aol.com. We'll share the best comments, and responses to them.
That being said, the USGA goes a little too far in making the U.S. Open course challenging. "If you shoot four days at even par or better, you're going to look awfully good," Woods told ESPN.com after shooting even-par on Thursday.
Nobody watches golf just to see Tiger shoot even-par. That's not interesting.
Consider this analogy: It would not be fun to see the pro bowling tour use a very tough lane condition, so that someone could win with a 180.
Care to sound off on what you read here? Send comments to seepersports@aol.com. We'll share the best comments, and responses to them.
Thursday, June 16, 2005
Phil v. Kobe - Round Two
I really hope the NBA doesn't lock out its players. This coming season could be really interesting. That's not because I'm a big fan of the NBA. I'm just looking forward to the drama in Los Angeles.
Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant are back together again. How can they put the past behind them and get along for the greater good of the team? It's no secret that they hate each other. Kobe pretty much drove Jackson out of town. Forgiving and forgetting are not easy to do, especially when the dirty laundry was aired out in front of the entire sports world. I don't expect this to go well.
Phil Jackson and Kobe Bryant are back together again. How can they put the past behind them and get along for the greater good of the team? It's no secret that they hate each other. Kobe pretty much drove Jackson out of town. Forgiving and forgetting are not easy to do, especially when the dirty laundry was aired out in front of the entire sports world. I don't expect this to go well.
Wednesday, June 15, 2005
Danica Patrick
She's certainly received a lot of attention because of her looks. We'll see if she'll become a winner in auto racing.
Anna Kournikova's looks got a lot of attention. But, that was about all she had going for her. Anna didn't win anything in tennis.
That reminds me of the old saying: You can get by on your charm for just 15 minutes. After that, you'd better know something.
Anna Kournikova's looks got a lot of attention. But, that was about all she had going for her. Anna didn't win anything in tennis.
That reminds me of the old saying: You can get by on your charm for just 15 minutes. After that, you'd better know something.
Tuesday, June 14, 2005
Minor League Baseball
If you've never seen a minor league baseball game in person, you don't know what you're missing. Sure, it's not as exciting as a big league contest. But, you can't beat the entertainment value found in the minors.
For less than the price of a movie ticket, you can see future stars in action. In some parks, there are no bad seats. So, you're close to all the sights and sounds. I personally like being able to hear the crack of the bat, and the pop of the ball into the catcher's mitt. Minor league crowds are usually pretty laid-back, and you don't see much of any heavy drinking, fighting, or other nonsense.
I still catch a major league game in person when I can. However, the minor circuit is a fun, relaxing, and affordable way to see the game played at a professional level.
Wanted: your comments. E-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. We'll open the mailbag and share the best comments here.
For less than the price of a movie ticket, you can see future stars in action. In some parks, there are no bad seats. So, you're close to all the sights and sounds. I personally like being able to hear the crack of the bat, and the pop of the ball into the catcher's mitt. Minor league crowds are usually pretty laid-back, and you don't see much of any heavy drinking, fighting, or other nonsense.
I still catch a major league game in person when I can. However, the minor circuit is a fun, relaxing, and affordable way to see the game played at a professional level.
Wanted: your comments. E-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. We'll open the mailbag and share the best comments here.
Monday, June 13, 2005
Afleet Alex
Afleet Alex isn't a Triple Crown champ, but was certainly very impressive. He blew away the field in the Belmont Stakes, winning by seven lengths.
I often lament the fact that I wasn't around to see Secretariat win by 31 lengths (I was born about two weeks after he did that). But, I shouldn't be too disappointed. I'll never forget when Afleet Alex almost fell, then shot past everyone in the Preakness. That was awesome! It's a moment that should live on forever in horse racing. Certainly the highlight of this year.
If you'd like to sound off on anything you read here, e-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. The best comments (and responses to them) will be posted here from time to time.
I often lament the fact that I wasn't around to see Secretariat win by 31 lengths (I was born about two weeks after he did that). But, I shouldn't be too disappointed. I'll never forget when Afleet Alex almost fell, then shot past everyone in the Preakness. That was awesome! It's a moment that should live on forever in horse racing. Certainly the highlight of this year.
If you'd like to sound off on anything you read here, e-mail me at: seepersports@aol.com. The best comments (and responses to them) will be posted here from time to time.
Saturday, June 11, 2005
World Series moments
Earlier this week, a well-known sports radio host was talking about Kirk Gibson's game-winning home run in Game 1 of the 1988 World Series. The host said that was the greatest moment ever in World Series history. The home run was dramatic, important, and almost heroic. But, it's not the greatest Fall Classic moment of all time.
I submit the following for consideration:
-Reggie Jackson's three home runs in the final game of the 1977 World Series
-Kirby Puckett's home run in Game 6 to keep the Minnesota Twins alive in the 1991 World Series
-Jack Morris' ten-inning shutout the following night to help the Twins to victory
-The New York Mets pulling off an unbelievable comeback in Game 6 of the 1986 Series
I submit the following for consideration:
-Reggie Jackson's three home runs in the final game of the 1977 World Series
-Kirby Puckett's home run in Game 6 to keep the Minnesota Twins alive in the 1991 World Series
-Jack Morris' ten-inning shutout the following night to help the Twins to victory
-The New York Mets pulling off an unbelievable comeback in Game 6 of the 1986 Series
Friday, June 10, 2005
Belmont Stakes
Tomorrow, we get to watch the third jewel in horse racing's Triple Crown. However, this year, we don't have a horse in the Belmont Stakes who won both the Kentucky Derby and Preakness. If a Triple Crown was at stake tomorrow, would the excitement be anywhere close to that in the 1973 Belmont?
I was born just a few weeks after Secretariat won that race in record-breaking time to earn the Triple Crown. I wish I was alive to see it. I don't think I'll ever see such a dominating performance with so much on the line. On June 9, 1973, the entire sports world was watching Secretariat to see if he could deliver. Even though he trailed early in the race, there was no denying him, as he hit the wire 31 lengths ahead of the second-place finisher.
I watch this race on replays frequently, but it will never be the same as watching it live.
I was born just a few weeks after Secretariat won that race in record-breaking time to earn the Triple Crown. I wish I was alive to see it. I don't think I'll ever see such a dominating performance with so much on the line. On June 9, 1973, the entire sports world was watching Secretariat to see if he could deliver. Even though he trailed early in the race, there was no denying him, as he hit the wire 31 lengths ahead of the second-place finisher.
I watch this race on replays frequently, but it will never be the same as watching it live.
Thursday, June 09, 2005
Veronica Mars revisited
At long last, Britney and Kevin are about to fade off of the airwaves. And, we'll soon be treated to Veronica Mars repeats. All I can say is: THANK YOU!!!!!!!!!!!!
Wednesday, June 08, 2005
Spurs vs. Pistons
I don't live in Detroit or San Antonio, so I don't have a strong reason to root for either the Pistons or Spurs in this year's NBA Finals. I do expect this to be a series worth watching.
Each team is likeable in its own way. The Pistons play team basketball. That enabled them to beat the Lakers' collection of overpriced egos last June. There's nothing all that flashy about the Spurs, but they just win, baby. I've always felt Tim Duncan doesn't get enough props. Lebron James is impressive, but he hasn't even taken the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Finals yet. Duncan has two rings.
Each team is likeable in its own way. The Pistons play team basketball. That enabled them to beat the Lakers' collection of overpriced egos last June. There's nothing all that flashy about the Spurs, but they just win, baby. I've always felt Tim Duncan doesn't get enough props. Lebron James is impressive, but he hasn't even taken the Cleveland Cavaliers to the Finals yet. Duncan has two rings.
Tuesday, June 07, 2005
All-Star Voting, part 2
Last time I checked, Mike Piazza was leading all National League catchers in All-Star votes. It's an example of Major League Baseball's All-Star vote results being more about popularity than quality of play. Mike's not exactly tearing it up this season. That being said, I did vote for him. You can call it a sentimental favorite.
A few days ago, I poked fun at the All-Star voting process. My feelings haven't really changed that much. I still think stuffing the virtual ballot box is silly. (I'm satisfied with voting twice.) Also, I think the players and managers should have more of a voice than fans in who fills the All-Star teams.
A few days ago, I poked fun at the All-Star voting process. My feelings haven't really changed that much. I still think stuffing the virtual ballot box is silly. (I'm satisfied with voting twice.) Also, I think the players and managers should have more of a voice than fans in who fills the All-Star teams.
Monday, June 06, 2005
Clemente auction
It would be great to have some Roberto Clemente memorabilia. I'm talking here about an autographed ball or bat. Sports collectibles are cool, and certainly big business.
But, I have to draw the line at auctioning off pieces of the plane in which Clemente died. Imagine inviting friends over to your place and saying: "Hey, check this out. This is a part of the plane Clemente died in." Give me a break. The whole thing is just plain sick.
But, I have to draw the line at auctioning off pieces of the plane in which Clemente died. Imagine inviting friends over to your place and saying: "Hey, check this out. This is a part of the plane Clemente died in." Give me a break. The whole thing is just plain sick.
Sunday, June 05, 2005
ESPN.com ads
Normally, I find pop-up ads very annoying. They're usually hawking products in which I have no interest.
However, I enjoy the video games on the Orbitz ads that pop-up at ESPN.com. The game featuring a guy in a dunking booth got a little boring after a while. So, I'd intentionally bean him instead of trying to hit the target and dunk him. The home run derby is cool. I'd like to hit 100 home runs in a game to see if the numbers flip over, but that would take half an hour, and I just can't sit there that long. The mini golf game is always a welcome diversion. I was proud of myself when I got a perfect score - hole-in-ones on each of the three holes.
However, I enjoy the video games on the Orbitz ads that pop-up at ESPN.com. The game featuring a guy in a dunking booth got a little boring after a while. So, I'd intentionally bean him instead of trying to hit the target and dunk him. The home run derby is cool. I'd like to hit 100 home runs in a game to see if the numbers flip over, but that would take half an hour, and I just can't sit there that long. The mini golf game is always a welcome diversion. I was proud of myself when I got a perfect score - hole-in-ones on each of the three holes.
Friday, June 03, 2005
All-Star Voting
You've heard the saying "one man, one vote". That's not how it works in Major League Baseball. Go to MLB.com, and you can vote for the American League and National League All-Star teams. If you're not satisfied with voting once, that's not a problem. You can actually vote up to 25 times.
Multiple voting is not really anything new. I remember the old days of punch cards, and you could've used as many of those as you wanted. Is there any wonder why many people think fan voting is a joke?
That being said, I did vote. But, I don't think I have time and energy to do it 25 times.
Multiple voting is not really anything new. I remember the old days of punch cards, and you could've used as many of those as you wanted. Is there any wonder why many people think fan voting is a joke?
That being said, I did vote. But, I don't think I have time and energy to do it 25 times.
Thursday, June 02, 2005
Juan Gonzalez
Injuries aren't usually funny. But, you almost have to laugh at the Juan Gonzalez situation. He's spent much of the last three years dealing with injuries. After an absence of more than a year, he stepped up to the plate for the Cleveland Indians recently. The comeback was very short, as he hurt his hamstring running to first base in his first (and only) at-bat.
Are you kidding me? His comeback lasted just one at-bat, and he couldn't even make it 90 feet down the line. What's even funnier is that the Indians will likely activate Coco Crisp. I remember seeing Coco in the minors, and thinking he'd catch on in the bigs, just because of his name.
We'll never see a Betty Crocker in the bigs, but I hope to live long enough to see players named Captain Crunch and Lucky Charms.
Are you kidding me? His comeback lasted just one at-bat, and he couldn't even make it 90 feet down the line. What's even funnier is that the Indians will likely activate Coco Crisp. I remember seeing Coco in the minors, and thinking he'd catch on in the bigs, just because of his name.
We'll never see a Betty Crocker in the bigs, but I hope to live long enough to see players named Captain Crunch and Lucky Charms.
Wednesday, June 01, 2005
Mike Nugent
Nuge is one of my all-time favorite Ohio State football players. This guy was like money in the bank. Whenever OSU needed a big kick, Nuge delivered. It's too bad he won't be in scarlet and gray anymore.
However, OSU's loss is the New York Jets' gain. I'm glad they picked him up. Kicking has never really been the true Achilles heel for the Jets. And, Nuge isn't necessarily the only missing piece to the championship puzzle. That being said, his acquisition is certainly a step in the right direction. Nuge is great in the clutch, and I expect him to have a fine NFL career.
However, OSU's loss is the New York Jets' gain. I'm glad they picked him up. Kicking has never really been the true Achilles heel for the Jets. And, Nuge isn't necessarily the only missing piece to the championship puzzle. That being said, his acquisition is certainly a step in the right direction. Nuge is great in the clutch, and I expect him to have a fine NFL career.
