Mets make right call trading K-Rod

Prince Fielder had not yet even finished hoisting his 2011 MLB All-Star Game MVP trophy when word got out the the Brewers had completed the first of what should be many trades this July. Shortly after the game, the Brewers had acquired star closer Francisco Rodriguez from the New York Mets in exchange for two players to be named later.

The reasoning for the Mets making this trade is a no brainer. With the Bernie Madoff mess and Jose Reyes' impending free agency hanging over Citi Field, the Mets need to find ways to save money. Trading K-Rod and his potential $17.5 million deal for next season is a great start. If you're not contending for a playoff spot, there is just no need to have a closer making over $10 million a year, let alone the money K-Rod was making. In the short term, the Mets can turn to Bobby Parnell and Jason Isringhausen to handle the closing duties.

The trade also means Carlos Beltran should keep his bags packed and be ready to leave. According to ESPN's Buster Olney, there are seven teams actively talking to the Mets about trading for Beltran. Beltran is in the last year of his contract and almost certainly won't be back with the Mets next season so the right thing to do is ship him off for prospects and build for the future.

As for the Brewers, the trade is a risky but bold move. The trade clearly states that the Brewers are going for it all this season. And why not? They've got 2 of the best young hitters in the game (Braun and Fielder), two of the best young starters in the game (Grienke and Gallardo) and now two of the better closers of the last two seasons. K-Rod's addition has basically turned Brewers games into 7 inning affairs: don't get to their pitchers in the first 7 innings, be prepared to be shut down by K-Rod and Axford.

The big risk for the Brewers is that $17.5 million vesting option K-Rod has for next season. If K-Rod finishes 55 games this season, the option automatically kicks in for next season. K-Rod is currently at 34 games finished. The Brewers will most certainly use Rodriguez as a set up man to Axford. However, if Axford was to get hurt or go into a slump, the Brewers would be forced to use Rodriguez as their closer, putting the option at risk of being activated.

Another question this trade brings up (albeit a minor question) is about Prince Fielder. Could the Brewers also be making this trade with the mind set that if they let both Prince and K-Rod walk after the season, they could be in line to pick up 4 draft picks and help restock their deflated farm system? Just something to ponder in what should be a rest of July full of trades and rumors.

How to Fix the MLB All-Star Game

Too much of the talk regarding this year's MLB All-Star Game has revolved around the players not present in Arizona. Whether due to injuries, rules or personal issues, many of the league's top players are not participating in tonight's game. With that in mind, some ideas on how to fix the MLB All-Star Game.

1) Move the Futures Game to Monday: MLB wanted a televised Draft to drive up hype and hope it become's an event as the NBA and NFL Drafts have become. So why not do the same with the Futures Game? Currently, the Futures Game is played on the Sunday of All-Star week, during which regular MLB games are going on. Unless you're at that ball park or your home team's game has ended, you're not rushing to tune into the game. However, if you move it to Monday, on a day when none of the other major 3 sports have anything going on anyways, you can garner a huge audience.

The argument that most fans won't know about the players participating in the game are overrated. In this age of Internet and 24 hour sports networks, fans know who the top prospects in the game and their team's are. Making this a marquee All-Star event can only help in promoting MLB's young talent.

2) Move the HR Derby to Tuesday: The HR Derby is close to becoming the grand event of All-Star week if the game itself isn't fixed. The main reason for moving the event down a day is...

3) Move the All-Star game until Wednesday: With this, the rule of starters who pitch on the Sunday before the All-Star game can go out the window. In fact, all players can decide to show up to the All-Star location late Monday or early Tuesday, giving them more time to prepare for All-Star. All players suited up (who are not on the DL) can play. Which leads us to...

4) All players selected to All-Star game must show: UNLESS THEY ARE ON THE DL. If you're healthy to play, no reason not to show up.

5) Fans and players should not be allowed to vote: Too many times, fans turn the voting into a popularity contest and certain guys who might not be putting up All-Star like seasons are selected as starters. Too many times, players turn the voting into making sure they make their teammates happy and screw over guys they don't like from other squads. If we're making this game count, then managers should be picking the rosters. Being that selection is not complete until after July, the managers of each division leading and wild card leading teams should convene to pick out the rosters: starters, bench players and pitchers.

NY Yankees Notes: 2nd Spring Training Game vs Phillies

The Yankees earned their first win of the Spring Yesterday, a 7-3 victory over the Phillies. Here are some things I took from the ballgame.

***In the race for the 4th and 5th spots in the starting rotation, Ivan Nova took a huge step towards locking down one of those spots. The youngster, who made his debut in the big leagues last season, pitched two scoreless innings, showing off a good fastball and breaking ball.

***Once again, Jorge Posada went chasing after the first pitch in his first AB. It marked the second time in as many at bats that Posada chased the first pitch. For a guy trying to get used to the DH role, Posada looks more like the wide eyed rookie ready to hack at anything.

***Jesus Montero had some nice moments yesterday. He had a very good first AB before being retired. Then he added an RBI hit later in the game. During the YES broadcast, Joe Girardi spoke of Montero's improvement behind the plate. The catching situation with the Yankees reminds me of the situation with 2nd base going into the 2005 season. The Yankees had signed Tony Womack in the winter, to only see him falter in NY and they ended up calling Cano up from AAA and the rest is history. Could the same be in line for Montero? With no signs of Russell Martin just yet, Montero has to be considered a top candidate to take over behind the plate.

***Sergio Mitre pitched two scoreless innings. Mitre is also in the running for one of the two open rotation spots, although I believe Joe Girardi would love to leave Mitre in the bullpen as a long relief man.

***This game also marked the spring training debut for pitching prospect Delin Betances and the kid was just electric. He struck out the side in his only inning of work, putting away two hitter with a high, 97 mph fastball and then freezing another on a knuckle curve. The kid was just nasty.

***Jorge Vazquez hit his 2nd HR of the spring. Much of the talk for the back up infielders spot has centered around Eduardo Nunez, Brandon Laird, Eric Chavez and Ramiro Pena but if Vazquez continues to hit, he could see himself on the big league club in a back up role.

NY Yankees Notes: 1st Spring Training Game vs Phillies

The Bronx Bombers dropped their first spring training game vs the Phillies 5-4. A couple of things I took away from today's game:

• Bartolo Colon: The former Cy Young winner, who hasn't pitched in a MLB game since 2009, actually didn't look to bad on the mound. His fastball started at around 88-89 mph but by the end of his stint in the 2nd inning, he was throwing it at around 93-94 mph. Robinson Cano and Francisco Cervelli have been big fans of Colon this spring, saying that the right hander is definitely a top candidate for the 4th and 5th spots in the rotation.
• Jorge Posada: Maybe I'm making a little bit too much out of this, but Posada swinging at the first pitch is somewhat bothersome for me. Posada has been a player who has played the field his whole career. Most guys like him who have had to transition to DH have always talked about how not being in the game completely affects them at the plate. So doesn't it befit Posada to take a couple of pitches for the simple fact that he hasn't been in the flow of the game?
• Joba Chamberlain: Most of the talk early in Yankees Spring Training dealt with players weight. C.C. Sabathia lost 25 pounds in the offseason, while Bartolo Colon came in saying he is 25 pounds overweight. Another pitcher caught in "WeightGate" was Joba Chamberlain. There were reports that Joba had come into camp overweight and Yankee coaches and officials were not pleased. However, after watching him today and hearing Michael Kay on the air, it looks more like Joba put on muscle weight. He did not look any worse than he has in other seasons. As for his performance, he introduced a new pitching style, with his hands starting lower around his belt before he began his motion towards the plate. It resulted in a very impressive inning for Chamberlain, with his fastball hitting 93-94 mph and showing a sharp breaking ball. After the Yankees signed Rafael Soriano to shore up the middle relief, Chamberlain could be fighting for a spot in the bullpen and a good showing could put him there and may attract other teams for possible trades.
• Mark Teixeira: Teixeira was the only regular to take more than 2 ABs. During that third AB, Michael Kay brought up the notion that the Yankees might give Teixeira more ABs during this spring training to maybe help him kick the funk of getting off to slow starts once the season begins. As if on cue, Teixeira drove the ball and banged it off the outfield wall for an RBI triple. Heck, whatever work.

Felton to be a part of Melo deal?

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...


According to Marc Berman of the New York Post, there are rumors that Denver wants Raymond Felton to be part of the package the Nuggets would get for Carmelo Anthony from the Knicks. The Nuggets, as a way to reduce their payroll and luxury tax obligation, would also ship Chauncey Billups to New York.

Billups can be bought out for $3.7 million shortly after his team's season is completed, which will save a lot of money. He will earn $14.2 million for 2011-12 if his team doesn't release him by that timeframe.

Berman spoke with Andy Miller, Billups' agent, on Thursday and Miller wasn't sure if his client would be OK coming to New York because they have not discussed the possibility.



Acquiring Felton would help the Nuggets save money while giving them a two headed monster at PG with Ty Lawson. I would assume the money saved would be used to sign Nene to a long term deal. Like Melo, Nene has an ETO in his contract or he can pick up his option for next year at about $11.6 million and the Nugges have staed they intend to keep him. As for the Knicks, replacing Felton with Big Shot Billups wouldn't hurt and a Big 3 of Amar'e, Melo and Billups would be dynamite. Plus, if the Knicks pick up his option for next year, his salary will come off the books in time for the team to make a run at Chris Paul in the summer of 2012. Intriguing...

Latest Lakers-Nuggets rumors make no sense.

Rumors are flying abound today about a possible Carmelo Anthony for Andrew Bynum trade that would give the Lakers the best 1-2 scoring punch in the entire NBA (yes Miami, even better than LeBron and DWade). With the Lakers struggling against the league's top teams this season (0-4 vs Boston, Miami & San Antonio), GM Mitch Kupchak mentioned he would entertain a trade to shake things up. However, today's rumors don't seem to make any sense. Also, while taking a closer look at the Lakers numbers for this season, do they even need to make a trade?

Carmelo Anthony is one of the best scorers in the NBA and a fantastic rebounder for a SF. However, the Lakers don't need any help on the offensive end. Despite getting close to nothing from Ron Artest, Derek Fisher and Steve Blake, the Lakers are still the 2nd most efficient offensive team in the league (http://espn.go.com/nba/hollinger/teamstats). Also, only Orlando and Chicago rebound the ball at a higher rate than the Lakers (http://espn.go.com/nba/hollinger/teamstats/_/sort/reboundRate/order/true). In other worlds, Melo's top two talents (scoring and rebounding) are not needed right now in LA.

So a Melo for Bynum deal might actually have a more negative effect on the Lakers then positive. When taking a look at the Lakers defensive numbers, despite a slip in their performance from last season, they are still in the top ten in the league (http://espn.go.com/nba/hollinger/teamstats/_/sort/defensiveEff). There is no doubt that losing Bynum would have a negative domino effect on the Lakers D, forcing Pau Gasol to center and Lamar Odom to PF, leaving Joe Smith, Derrick Caracter and Theo Ratliff as the bigs off the bench (gulp). ESPN's trade machine doesn't even give the Lakers any extra victories based on that rumor (http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=6ycgsfq).

If the Lakers are intent on a trade, they should look into improving the PG and SF positions. SF might be tough, with reports coming out today that the Lakers had talks with the Charlotte Bobcats regarding Stephen Jackson and/or Gerald Wallace but the Bobcats losing interest when they learned Ron Ron wanted no part in being a Bobcat. With back up Matt Barnes (who was playing very well before his injury) due back sometime in March, maybe the need for a SF isn't so dire and they can concentrate on PG. How does this trade look for the Lakers

http://games.espn.go.com/nba/tradeMachine?tradeId=45cv839

In that proposed trade, the Lakers would trade Bynum, Steve Blake and Shannon Brown to the Nuggets for Chauncey Billups and Nene. Lakers would get a major upgrade at PG in Big Shot Billups and a big man inside to replace Bynum. Nuggets get the young big they want in Bynum and can start rebuilding from scratch, with Melo still as a trade chip. Thoughts?

Super Bowl XLV: 2010 AFC Champions Pittsburgh Steelers at 2010 NFC Champions Green Bay Packers

Location: Cowboys Stadium, Arlington, TX
Time: 6:00 pm
Road Team: 2010 AFC Champion Pittsburgh Steelers
Home Team: 2010 NFC Champion Green Bay Packers
W-L Records: Steelers 12-4, Packers 10-6
Points Scored: Steelers 23.4, Packers 24.3
Points Allowed: Steelers 14.5, Packers 15

You couldn't have picked a better Super Bowl match up. Two teams with great traditions. Two elite QBs. Two top notch defenses. A stadium that is being boasted as the 8th Great Wonder of the World. Let's just hope the players make it the show we expect it to be.

How the Steelers will win: In both of the Steelers playoff games this year, they've managed to win despite only playing well in one half of each game (2nd half vs Ravens, 1st half vs Jets). They need to show up for all 4 quarters against a Packers team that has shown they can win in just about any scenario. With center Maurkice Pouncey out, the Steelers might not have much of a running game in between the red zone so the Steelers might have to rely on Big Ben and the passing game to produce yardage. On defense, the Steelers will need Troy Polamalu more than ever in trying to stop Aaron Rodgers, whose simply been the best QB in the entire playoffs. Doesn't help that DE Aaron Smith is also out with injury.

How the Packers will win: The Packers come into the Super Bowl as the hotter of the two teams. They've basically been playing playoff games since Week 16. Aaron Rodgers has elevated his game to elite status and the Packers defense can hit you from any angle. Outside of an inconsistent running game, the Packers are a complete football team. The defense should be able to contain Rashard Mendenhall in between the red zone and the linebacker crew led by A.J. Hawk and Clay Matthews have the ability to run down and take down Big Ben. On offense, unless Troy Polamalu and his hair make big plays (always a big possibilty) I don't see why Aaron Rodgers would have any problem with the Steelers defense.

The pick: Green Bay 27, Steelers 20. Aaron Rodgers officially makes Packers fan forget about Brett Favre and the Lombardi Trophy goes home to Green Bay.

2010 AFC Championship Game: New York Jets at Pittsburgh Steelers

Location: Heinz Field, Pittsburgh, PA
Time: 6:30 pm
Road Team: New York Jets
Home Team: 2010 AFC North Champions Pittsburgh Steelers
W-L Records: Jets 11-5, Steelers 12-4
Points Scored: Jets 22.9, Steelers 23.4
Points Allowed: Jets 19, Steelers 14.5

How the Jets will win: The Jets have managed to beat the two best QBs in the world (Peyton Manning & Tom Brady) so far in this year's playoff. They face a different test in Ben Roethlisberger. In Manning and Brady, you have two guys who if the defense can get them, they are going down. That is not the case with Roethlisberger. Big Ben is a QB that is built like a linebacker. If the Jets get to him, THEY HAVE TO BRING HIM DOWN. Not doing so usually results in big plays for the Steelers. On offense, the Jets will face their toughest defense yet so far in these playoffs. Look for the Jets to hammer away with the running game (like they did in their Week 15 win over Pittsburgh). This could be a game of FGs so Nick Folk needs to be on point, especially in what is probably the toughest place to kick FGs, Heinz Field

How the Steelers will win: In their Week 15 loss to the Jets, the Steelers were missing safety Troy Polamalu. Not the case today. Look for Polamalu to be all over the field and cause havoc. On offense, the Steelers would be helped if Rashard Mendenhall. While Big Ben can stand in and take hits from the Jets defense, you don't want the guy turning into a test dummy. If Mendenhall can give the Steelers anything productive, it will only help out Big Ben even more.

The Pick: No Polamalu in Week 15 meant a loss for the Steelers to the Jets. With Polamalu in today, it will be another Super Bowl appearance for the Steelers. Steelers 24, Jets 14

2010 NFC Championship Game: Green Bay Packers at Chicago Bears

Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Time: 3:00 pm
Road Team: Green Bay Packers
Home Team: 2010 NFC North Champions Chicago Bears
W-L Records: Packers 10-6, Bears 11-5
Points Scored: Packers 24.3, Bears 20.9
Points Allowed: Packers 15, Bears 17.9

How will the Packers win: Aaron Rodgers has used this postseason to elevate himself into the elite group of NFL quarterbacks. No QB has played better in this year's playoff. In order for the team to advance to the Super Bowl, it's going to be all on him on offense. The Bears defense will be the toughest of all the defenses that he has faced so far so any help from RB James Starks will be greatly appreciated. On defense, the Packers have been able to rattle both Michael Vick and Matt Ryan, arguably the two best QBs this year in the NFC not named Rodgers. I see no reason for them to not be able to contain Jay Cutler.

How will the Bears win: For the Bears to win, their defense needs to have a huge day, as so does Devin Hester in the return game. It'll be up to Hester to give the Bears good field position and at least give Cutler the chance to set up the Bears for FGs when they cant punch it in to the end zone. Matt Forte will also need to have a huge day out of the backfield. With Dom Capers sending CB Charles Woodson at will at the QB, itll be up to Forte to protect his QB or burn the Packers defense with big yards out of the backfield.

The Pick: Packers have the better defense and better QB. Cheese heads will be descending on Dallas in two weeks. Packers 20 Bears 17.

2010 AFC Divisonal Playoff Game: New York Jets at New England Patriots

Location: Gilette Stadium, Foxboro
Time: 4:00 pm
Road Team: New York Jets
Home Team: 2010 AFC East Champion New England Patriots
W-L Records: Jets 11-5, Patriots 14-2
Points Scored: Jets 22.9, Patriots 32.4
Points Allowed: Jets 19, Patriots 19.6

How the Jets will win: After their 45-3 thrashing at the hands of the Patriots earlier this season, the Jets need a near perfect performance to pull this one out. Rex Ryan is going to have to show Brady complete different sets of defenses just about each time. On offense, Mark Sanchez nees to show the same poise he showed on that game winning drive he had against the Colts last week. A big help would also be a good running game from the combo of LT and Shonn Greene. With Brad Smith out, other players (Antonio Cromartie, maybe LT on the wild cat) need to step up in the form of special teams. One guy to watch out for, Antonio Holmes. The guy has had his numerous playoff moments and will be called on to step up.

How will the Patriots win: Ummmm, they won 45-3 last time. How about do the same thing? Brady is one of the greatest and he will need to be at his best with his average set of offensive weapons. On defense, this will be either the first or just second playoff game for many youngsters on the Patriots defensive side. Can they stay calm under the playoff pressure and keep the Jets numerous offensive weapons in check?

The pick: Rex Ryan slayed one dragon last week but I think he's going to have to wait until next year to slay Brady and the Patriots. Its just too hard to pick against a team that won by 42 points the last time these two matched up. Look for Rob Gronkowski to have a big game for the Pats. Patriots 28, Jets 17

2010 NFC Playoff Game: Seattle Seahawks at Chicago Bears

Location: Soldier Field, Chicago, IL
Time: 1:00 pm
Road Team: 2010 NFC West Champion Seattle Seahawks
Home Team: 2010 NFC North Champion Chicago Bears
W-L Records: Packers 10-6, Falcons 13-3
Avg Points Scored: Seahawks 19.4, Bears 20.9
Avg Points Allowed: Seahawks 25.4, Bears 17.9

How the Seahawks will win: The Seahawks continue their improbable playoff run this week in Chicago, the same team they defeated in a Week 6 matchup. In that game, Matt Hasselbeck threw for 242 yards and a TD, Mike Williams caught 10 passes for 123 yards and a TD and Marshawn Lynch and Justin Forsett combined for 111 rushing yards and 2 TDs. It might take the same performances (especially from Marshawn Lynch) to have a chance to win. Also, playing in sub zero degree weather is different than 60 degree weather (like in Week 6) and the Seahawks will have to adapt.

How will the Bears win: For the Bears, it's all about defense. The Bears defense gives up 90 rushing yards a game and if they can keep Marshawn Lynch in check, it should be a long day for the Seahawks. On offense, Jay Cutler has to protect the football. If there was a theme in yesterday's playoff games, it's that teams that turnover the ball (home team, road team, doesn't matter) will lose. Cutler (16 INT this year, 26 last year, 18 in 2008) HAS TO PROTECT THE FOOTBALL.

The pick: No one thought the Seahawks could've knocked off the defending champion Saints last week, but they did. The difference this week? No home field advantage and weather. Bears, 21-10

Soriano/Mariano puts Yankees in playoffs...but that's it

With their signing of 2010 AL Saves leader Rafael Soriano, the Yankees have made sure they didn't leave the winter free agency party empty handed. After watching their plan B (Carl Crawford) disappear even before their plan A (Cliff Lee) decided to return to Philadelphia, the Yankees were going into the 2011 season with only Russell Martin as their only addition. While that roster would've still left the Yankees as the probably favorites for the AL Wild Card, the move for Soriano clearly puts the Yankees ahead of other possible Wild Card teams (Angels, A's, Twins, Tigers & White Sox).

With Soriano on board, the Yankees will be able to go back to the strategy that won them a championship in 1996. Six innings from the starter, 2 middle relief innings (Mariano in those days) and the closer for the 9th. Soriano gives the Yankees by far the best middle relief/closer combo in all of baseball. While questions remain about the Yankees rotation behind C.C. Sabathia and Phil Hughes, Soriano takes pressure off the starters having to go deep into games. Soriano now pushes David Robertson and Joba Chamberlain out of the set up role and into the 6th and 7th inning. It also gives the Yankees the option of moving Joba Chamberlain back into the rotation, giving them another option for the 4th and 5th starter spots in case Andy Pettitte doesn't not come back. Add in the performance of Boone Logan last season with the signing of Pedro Feliciano and the Yankees could have the best bullpen in all of baseball.

While the move almost guarantees the Yankees a playoff spot, a championship is still a bit far off. The Yankees rotation does not stack up with that of the Red Sox (if their starters are healthy and Josh Beckett is back to his old self). Offensively, while still a talented and stacked lineup, their are some questions (can Posada adapt to the DH role, can Martin adapt to NYC, can Cano repeat his 2009 season, is Jeter getting old, etc.). And while Soriano has been a great reliever, he is a guy with an injury history and has had attitude problems, something that just doesn't fly with the Yankees. Until Brian Cashman can add at least one more reliable starter behind Sabathia and Hughes, look for Boston and the Phillies to be the favorites to win it all.

2010 NFC Divisional Playoffs: Green Bay Packers at Atlanta Falcons

Location: Georgia Dome Atlanta
Time: 8:00 pm
Road Team: Green Bay Packers
Home Team: 2010 NFC South Champion Atlanta Falcons
W-L Records: Packers 10-6, Falcons 13-3
Avg Points Scored: Packers 24.3, Falcons 25.9
Avg Points Allowed: Packers 15, Falcons 18

How the Packers will win: The Packers come into this game with one of the league's best defenses, one of the league's best QB and a running game they discovered last week in James Starks. On defense, the Packers must contain Michael Turner, who almost never fumbles the football. It will be up to Charles Woodson to cover Roddy White. Both men have had exceptional years at their respective positions and it should be a great matchup. If the Packers defense can contain Turner, it will make it that much easier to contain White (and let us not forget about the ageless Tony Gonzalez at TE).

How the Falcons will win: The Falcons have to win this game on the offensive end. Aaron Rodgers has shown he can perform without a top notch running attack and the Falcons defense should be no problem for him. Matt Ryan will have to put up big numbers. Falcons do have the advantage of the home field, where they have only lost twice in the Matt Ryan era.

Prediction: I wanted to pick the Packers last week against the Eagles but I went with Vick continuing the story book season. Not this week. I'm going with the Pack to blow out, yes blow out, the Falcons, 35-10. Big day from Rodgers and the Packers defense will leave the Falcons scratching their heads.

2010 AFC Divisional Playoff Game: Baltimore Ravens at Pittsburgh Steelers

Location: Lincoln Heinz Field, Pittsburgh
Time: 4:30 pm
Road Team: Baltimore Ravens
Home Team: 2010 AFC North Champions Pittsburgh Steelers
W-L Records: Ravens 12-4, Steelers 12-4
Avg Points Scored: Ravens 22.3, Steelers 23.4
Avg Points Allowed: Ravens 16.9, Steelers 14.5

How the Ravens will win: Everyone knows what the Ravens can do on defense. If there is a QB in the NFL physically capable of taking the punishment the Ravens can dish out, it's Roethlisberger. If the Ravens get to him, they need to hit him hard. If you can rattle Roethlisberger and get him off his game, the Ravens will be able to shut down the rest of the Steelers offense. Offensively, it's all about Ray Rice. How the Ravens offense will perform depends on what they get out of Rice. If Rice has a good game, he will be able to open up the passing game for Joe Flacco and his weapons at WR (Bolding, Mason, Houshmandzadeh) and Todd Heap at TE.

How the Steelers will win: Expect the Steelers running game to get shut down by the Ravens so it's all up to Big Ben to make plays. As mentioned earlier, Roethlisberger has shown to be able to take the Ravens heat and hard hitting. Big Ben will have to make plays in order for the Steelers to advance. On defense, the Steelers need to keep Ray Rice in check, which in turn will keep the other Raven offense weapons in check.

The Pick: While the Ravens defeated the Steelers in Pittsburgh earlier this year, Roethlisberger did not play. With the Steelers at home and Roethlisberger behind center, I'm going with the Steelers, 17-14.

2010 NFL Wild Card Game: Packers at Eagles

Location: Lincoln Financial Field, Philadelphia
Time: 4:30 pm
Road Team: Green Bay Packers
Home Team: 2010 NFC East Champions Philadelphia Eagles
W-L Records: Packers 10-6, Eagles 10-6
Avg Points Scored: Packers 24.3, Eagles 27.4
Avg Points Allowed: Packers 15, Eagles 23.6

How the Packers will win: While the Eagles score a ton of points, they also give up a ton of points so it should be no problem for Aaron Rodgers to run the Green Bay offense. Defensively, the Packers defense needs to keep itself composed in guarding against Michael Vick. As we all know, one minor slip up and Vick is gone. Look for Charles Woodson to be used in the slot to blitz Vick and give him different looks.

How the Eagles will win: The Eagles defense is not stopping Aaron Rodgers so its up to Michael Vick to put up points against the Packers vaunted defense. Vick will need to use a good combination of the passing and running (both himself and the running backs) to keep the Packers defense on their heels.

The Pick: Eagles 30, Packers 24 Everything points to a Packers win but I think Michael Vick adds at least one more story book moment to his memorable season.

2010 NFL Wild Card Game: Ravens at Chiefs

Location: Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City
Time 1:00 pm
Road Team: Baltimore Ravens
HomeTeam: 2010 AFC West Champions Kansas City Chiefs
W-L Records: Ravens 12-4, Chiefs 10-6
Avg Points Scored: Ravens 22.3, Chiefs 22.9
Avg Points Allowed: Ravens 16.9, Chiefs 20.4

How the Ravens will win: The Ravens will forever be known for their super defense. Terrell Suggs, Ed Reed and Ray Lewis all need to be accounted for as each can make a game changing play. On offense, Joe Flacco continues to grow and with weapons Ray Rice and an improved core of recievers, there is no need to worry that this young QB will crumble under the pressure.

How the Chiefs will win: For a young team making the playoffs for the first time in years, protecting the football is vital. Going up against one of the best defenses in the league, the Chiefs can not afford to turn over the football.

The Pick: Ravens 21, Chiefs 10. Defense wins championships. Case Closed.

2010 NFL Wild Card Game: Jets at Colts

Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis
Time: 8:00 pm
Road Team: New York Jets
Home Team: 2010 AFC South Champions Colts
W-L Records: Jets 11-5, Colts 10-6



How will the Jets win: The Jets are talented on offense and shouldn't have any problems against the Colts defense. WR Santonio Holmes seems to step it up in the playoffs and last years performance by QB Mark Sanchez should calm Jets fans worried about their young QB playing in big games. On defense, they have to go up agains the chess master known as Peyton Manning. Although the match ups on defense seem to favor the Jets because of talent, Manning can make any of his backs or receivers look great on any day and vice versa he can make some of the best defenses in the league look childish.

How will the Colts win: One man: Peyton Manning. The Colts defense might not be able to stop the Jets offense so it's on Manning to put up points fast and often. If the Colts can grab the lead, they will have to find some sort of running game to run the clock

The Pick: Jets 28, Colts 10. Despite the greatness that is Peyton Manning, he can't do it all on his own and this Jets defense is way more talented than the group that lost to the Colts last year. Add in the fact that the Colts offense is not as dynamic as last years, so the Jets defense could rely on multiple blitz coming from all over the place.

Despite the injuries to their backfield, the Saints are still going up against one of the worst defenses in the league. I say look for a big day out of Drew Brees, getting all of his weapons involved, specifically Marques Colston and Reggie Bush

2010 NFL Wild Card Game: Saints at Seahawks

Location: Qwest Field, Seattle
Time: 4:30
Road Team: Defending Super Bowl Champions New Orleans Saints
Home Team: 2010 NFC West Champions Seattle Seahawks
W-L Records: Saints 11-5, Seahawks 7-9
Points Scored: Saints 384, Seahawks 310
Points Allowed: Saints 307, Seahawks 407


How will the Saints win: With injuries to their backfield, the Saints will have to rely heavily on Reggie Bush to produce anything in the running game. Luckily, they have one of the best QBs in the league in Drew Brees and they are going up against a defense that gave up over 400 points this season.

How will the Seahawks win: The Seahawks will have Matt Hasselbeck starting at QB this weekend, who is a major upgrade over Charlie Whitehurst and threw for 366 yards against the Saints earlier this season. With an improved Mike Williams this season, look for Hasselbeck to carve up the Saints secondary as he did earlier this season. If Hasselbeck's arm can give the Seahawks a lead, it will be up to Marshawn Lynch to carry the load, give the Seahawks first downs and run the clock.

The Pick: Saints 35, Seahawks 14

Despite the injuries to their backfield, the Saints are still going up against one of the worst defenses in the league. I say look for a big day out of Drew Brees, getting all of his weapons involved, specifically Marques Colston and Reggie Bush

J.J. Hickson and Byron Scott have talk

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...



Cavaliers head coach Byron Scott and J.J. Hickson have had a strained relation this season. Scott has been unhappy with the production from the power forward and yanked him from the starting five. That did not sit well with Hickson. The constant criticism from Scott has also bothered Hickson.

The Akron Beacon-Journal reports they met last week to discuss their issues, although it appears Scott did most of the talking.
"We had a conversation the other day," Scott said. "We'll just leave it at that."

"It's no secret our relationship hasn't been the best," Hickson said. "But as a young player, it's up to me to be humbled by the whole situation and listen to him. He played in the league for a long time. Who am I to question his actions?"
Hickson admits he is young and must listen to Scott.

"I think me and him are both competitive," Hickson said. "It's like a clash of the titans. Me being young and the respect I have for him, I'm going to be humbled by the situation and listen to him and do what it takes to stay on the floor. I want to help this ball club win games."
Hickson, who is averaging 10.4 points and 5.1 rebounds so far this season, has a lot of talent, but he won't last with a coach like Scott if he doesn't turn his game around. The Cavaliers refused to trade him last season, but that could change by the February trade deadline.




There were rumblings earlier this week that the Cavs were possibly interested in Wizards forward Andray Blatche.  While Hickson was seen as a building block for the Cavs future after LeBron James's departure last summer, he could see himself in another uniform soon if his relationship with Scott doesn't improve.



UPDATE via Nick Borges of ESPN...

Earlier this week it was reported that head coach Byron Scott and J.J. Hickson had a meeting recently to clear the air. Scott did most of the talking.

Hickson followed that up by missing practice on Monday. Hickson was fined and benched for Wednesday's game against Toronto.

On Thursday Scott refuted the notion that there is a conflict going on between the two of them.

"We're not clashing. He missed a practice, and he didn't play [Wednesday] night. He understood that you're not going to get rewarded for missing practice," Scott told Akron Beacon-Journal. "Last night he cheered his teammates on, he was terrific in practice. We talked a little during practice and after practice; there's no clashing."

They may not be "clashing," but they clearly are not on the same page. Hickson will either lose his spot in the rotation or find himself leaving the Cavaliers via a trade if he doesn't step up.



This news shouldn't help Hickson's trade value.  Who wants to take on a guy who misses practice and is causing headaches with the head coach?  On top of that, the guy has been playing terribly, as noted by John Hollinger of ESPN...

"He's been average at best as a rebounder and defender despite a strong build and good leaping ability, while his usefulness as a go-to scorer is limited by a lack of creativity in the post and his obliviousness to the other four guys on the court. Hickson's 4.4 assist ratio is the 10th-worst in basketball worst of any player with a usage rate above 20."

Look for Hickson to lose his rotation spot before a trade happening.  While teams, specifically the Wizards, will continue to monitor the situation, there is no reason to trade for a guy not even playing at the level of an average player.

Joel Pryzbilla's future

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...

Portland center Joel Przybilla will be a free agent beginning in July. He played for the Milwaukee Bucks during his first three years in the NBA and said he'd consider signing with them.

"I definitely wouldn't mind playing for the Bucks," Przybilla told The Journal Times. "My first preference would be to stay in Portland; I have to see what their plans are for me. But my second choice would be Milwaukee. I wouldn't mind playing there at all."

The Bucks need a backup center behind Andrew Bogut and Przybilla will be one of the best on the market in the summer. He would be a solid addition, if the Bucks can sign him.


When healthy, Przybilla is one of the best back up big men in the league. The problem the last two years is that he hasn't been healthy (78 missed games the past two seasons). Adding in the fact that Bogut has also been injury prone in his career, relying on two injury prone centers might not be the best idea.

Yanks, multiple teams eye Bonderman

Via Jason A. Churchill of ESPN...



Right-hander Jeremy Bonderman could be in the cross hairs of several clubs, including the New York Mets, Seattle Mariners, Texas Rangers and Washington Nationals, and Jon Morosi of FoxSports.com reported late Tuesday that the New York Yankees have an eye for Bonderman.

The Yankees, who are waiting on a decision from left-hander Andy Pettitte, do not expect the veteran to return, and would prefer not to head into the regular season with two unknown commodities at the back end of their rotation, hence their interest in Bonderman, Jeff Francis and Freddy Garcia.

If Pettitte were to return, the Yankee may be just fine with Ivan Nova handling the fifth starter duties, but could also turn to Joe Blanton as a potential No. 4 behind CC Sabathia, A.J. Burnett and Phil Hughes.


With the Yankees missing out on Cliff Lee and the uncertainty of Andy Pettitte's return, expect theYankees to take a look at any starters available. The team has also been linked to Bartolo Colon in recent days and will continue to monitor the situation in Seattle and Felix Hernandez, although the Cy Young winner is under contract until 2014.

Knicks to sign Chandler?

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...

The Knicks could have signed Wilson Chandler to an extension by Oct. 31, but decided to deal with him in July when he'll be a restricted free agent. Chandler is having a solid year for the Knicks and president Donnie Walsh vowed on Wednesday that the team will ink him to a new contract in the summer.

"Wilson's a restricted free agent and I'm going to sign him," Walsh told the New York Post. "He's a helluva player."

The team and player were close to a deal in the fall, but couldn't complete it after NBA commissioner David Stern announced the desire to drastically reduce salaries and the cap in the new collective bargaining agreement.

"We have a great, open working relationship with Donnie," said agent Chris Luchey. "We did feel like we were close to having a deal done early on. We thought we were in the same ballpark on what his value was before the commissioner came out with strong statements. That kind of startled Donnie and got him to backpedal.

"So we agreed we can play it out, knowing it could backfire in them having to spend more money if his value goes up. His value has definitely risen since Oct. 31. But my belief is Donnie wants to retain him, even if another spectacular free agent -- not naming names -- comes up."

A source tells the newspaper that Luchey may seek a five-year, $60 million deal for Chandler.



Wilson Chandler has stepped his game up this season. He's averaging a career high in points (17.9 ppg), rebounds (6.5 rpg) and blocks (1.5 bpg). His shooting is also up across the board (career highs .489 FG%, .386 3PT FG% and .823 FT%). At the start of the year, he was a leading contender for the 6th Man Award before being inserted into the starting line up. His play has made the decision harder in terms of who to include in a trade for Carmelo Anthony, if and when the Nuggets decide to deal with the Knicks. This may be just the beginning for the 23 year old Chandler.

Samuel Dalembert Update

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...

Kings center Samuel Dalembert is not happy about his lack of playing time, so his agent, Marc Cornstein, traveled to Sacramento from New York to talk with the Kings about his client's diminished role on the team.

Dalembert, who is in the final year of his contract, sounds like he can't wait to get out of Sacramento.

"They have to let me know which direction they want to go," Dalembert told The Sacramento Bee. "They know what I do best. I block shots, rebound, get us in the fast break. Am I going to play the next five years in a place that is a contender, or am I going to be here, helping this team get better? It's up to them. But I am not going to lie. This is very frustrating."

The Kings are looking to the future and that's why they're focused on developing rookie DeMarcus Cousins. The team has tried to trade Dalembert, but have not found the right deal.

"I talked to Geoff (Petrie)," Cornstein said, "and we don't want to hit the panic button. All the reasons we were so excited for him to come here are still there. We're just trying to find a solution. It's really not his choice. That (a potential trade) is for the team to decide. We have to see how things progress and play out."


I've been harping for weeks that the Knicks need to forget about Melo for now and go after a back up PG and starting C. Dalembert would take care of the need for a starting C. The guys blocks shots and rebounds. He can handle defending whoever the top low post option is for opposing teams, allowing Amar'e to be a great weak side defender and save his energy for the offensive end. Dalembert is also a guy who can run the fast break, making him perfect for Mike D'Antoni's offense.

NBA Dunk Contest News

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...


DeMar DeRozan, who was the runner-up to Nate Robinson in last years slam dunk contest, is not in the event this year. DeRozan says he'd participate, if his friend, Brandon Jennings, can't because of injuries.

"Yeah, I'd go," DeRozan told the Toronto Sun. "I'll win it."
as gone
DeRozan said he lost last year because of a lack of confidence in his health.

"There's a lot of stuff I wanted to do, but I just came off the injury. I was kind of timid because my leg was still bothering me," he said.



The Blake Griffin, I mean, the NBA Dunk Contest participants were announced yesterday. To no ones surprise, Blake Griffin will be participating. Along with him, JaVale McGee of the Wizards, Serge Ibaka of the Thunder and Brandon Jennings of the Bucks round out the field. Jennings has been hurt this season and has only completed 2 dunks all year so his inclusion was a surprise. If you ask fans, I think they rather see DeRozan then Jennings. DeRozan and Griffin in the Dunk Final could be special. And what happened to LeBron? After saying he was still iffy on joining this years competition, LeBron has gone quiet since the participants were announced. Just another reasons for fans to hate LeBron.

What does the future hold for Michael Young in Texas?

Via Doug Mittler of ESPN...

If the Texas Rangers are indeed in serious pursuit of third baseman Adrian Beltre, that calls into question what the team will do with Michael Young, a six-time All-Star and the franchise's all-time hits leader.

There was plenty of speculation at the winter meetings that the Rangers were willing to shop Young at the right price. Colorado has been mentioned as a possible destination, but Jon Morosi of FoxSports.com tweeted Sunday that the Rangers and Rockies have not had serious talks about Young in the past week.

Young has three years and $48 million left on his contract, a figure that could prove to be too expensive if Beltre lands in Arlington. Jeff Wilson of the Star Telegram says the Rangers could use Young as the designated hitter if Vladimir Guerrero signs elsewhere or try him at first base.

With reports coming out today that Beltre is closing to agreeing to a multi-year deal with the Rangers (http://sports.espn.go.com/dallas/mlb/news/story?id=5984163) it would appear that Michael Young's time with the Rangers is up. It is tough to see a guy who last year hit .284 with 21 HRs and 91 RBIs accepting a utility role, even one where he would be in the lineup most times. Young has already been asked twice during his Rangers career to move to a different position to accommodate a new Ranger (2004 moved from 2B to SS for Alfonso Soriano, 2009 moved from SS to 3B for Elvis Andrus) and in neither occasion was Young happy about it. Also, how can you justify paying a guy an average of $16 million per year for the next 3 seasons and have him as a utility player? While it would be odd to see the Rangers career leader in hits in another uniform, don't be surprised if it happens soon.

UPDATE Via Richard Durrett of ESPN...

Michael Young said Monday night that he's willing to move to DH and play the other infield positions if it means the Rangers can get a player like Adrian Beltre.

"I want to do what's best for a winning team," Young said. "That's always been the case and it always will be. I'm willing to do what I need to do to help this team."

Young said the Rangers talked to him about the possibility of moving several times starting at the Winter Meetings. General manager Jon Daniels has discussed the move with Young recently as well and said it would include playing the various infield positions, but most of his at-bats would be at DH. Of course, this is dependent on whether the club even needs to move Young, which it would should they sign Beltre. Young said he has no idea if the team is close to signing Beltre, but he said he's willing to do whatever he has to do for the team to succeed.

"I'm very motivated to have a good year in 2011 and that hasn't changed at all over the last couple of weeks and I'll take that attitude into 2011 no matter where we're playing," Young said.




So there goes the theory of Young not wanting to switch positions. I guess that's what finally tasting a World Series can do for a player. It will be interesting to see what this means for Vladimir Guerrero, now that the Rangers have some sort of leverage knowing they can pencil Young in as a DH. In the event they do sign Guerrero, it will then be interesting to see what happens with Mitch Moreland, who after a strong performance in last year's ALCS and World Series (.420 1 HR, 6 RBIs in 31 ABs), was thought to be in line to take over at 1st base. Could Young become the everyday 1st baseman if Moreland flounders in Spring Training?

UPDATE Via Jason A. Churchill of ESPN...

Michael Young told Evan Grant of the Dallas Morning News "I'm willing to move to DH," so the club can sign and play Adrian Beltre at third base, a change from the veteran's original approach to switching positions for the second time in three years.

There was talk last month that if the Rangers acquired Beltre Young would be trade bait, but his contract may prohibit such a move.

But if Young moves to DH, Vladimir Guerrero likely slides off the Rangers' radar, as the former MVP is viewed as a bit of a liability in the field, and the club would prefer to play Josh Hamilton in right field, anyway.

If Beltre ends up in Texas, the lineup is likely set with the Gold Glove defender fitting in somewhere in the middle of the batting order, either protecting Hamilton or batting directly in front of the MVP.

As mentioned in the article (and as I mentioned in one of my previous posts) Young has never been gracious to switching positions before in his career. However, after tasting the World Series for the first time in his career, Young has softened that stance on this occasion. There was another report earliar today (http://es.pn/gzh3Cm) in which Young states he is an everyday player. So while he is open to switching positions, he still wants to play everyday. With an outfield of Nelson Cruz, Josh Hamilton and potentially Julio Borbon, there doesn't seem to be any space in the OF for him. The only other options are DH and 1st base. If the Rangers decide to sign Vladimir Guerrero, then most likely Young will take over as the team's 1st baseman, making Mitch Moreland expendable. If they elect to go with Young as the DH, Moreland stays at 1st base and Guerrero will need to keep looking for work.

Burnett to work on Mechanics

Via Jason A. Churchill of ESPN...

Right-hander A.J. Burnett is the owner of perhaps the best raw stuff of any pitcher in baseball, and at least ranks near the top of the list when he's healthy. But he tossed up a stinker of a season in 2010 -- so much that the Yankees offered Cliff Lee about $150 million -- and the club is now expecting to need Burnett more than ever withAndy Pettitte leaning toward retirement.

The plan for Burnett is to meet with new pitching coach Larry Rothschild in the next few weeks to work on a couple of mechanical tweaks, writes ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.The Yankees, Olney continues, consider these adjustments "easy fixes," but Rothschild will also be tapping into Burnett's mental psyche.

If Burnett returns to form -- the form that not only earned him the big-money deal from the Yankees but helped him perform much more admirably in 2009 when his FIP (Fielding Independent Pitching) was a half-run better than it was a year ago.

After missing out on Cliff Lee and with word that Andy Pettitte is leaning towards retiring, the Yankees NEED A.J. Burnett to have a bounce back season. In all honesty, Burnett can't be worse than he was last season, when he posted the highest ERA EVER for a Yankees pitcher who pitched at least 180 innings in a season. Even if the Yankees go out and sign Rafael Soriano (which would give them the best 8th and 9th inning pitching combo in baseball with Mariano Rivera), they still need Burnett to pitch better, being that at the moment he is penciled in as the Yankees no. 3 starter behind C.C. Sabathia and Phil Hughes.

Caron Butler out; Will Mavs make a deal?

Via Nick Borges of ESPN...


The Mavericks announced Tuesday that Caron Butler is out for the season following surgery to repair his ruptured right patellar tendon. Owner Mark Cuban was asked if Butler's injury will change how the team approaches the trade market.

"We do the same thing regardless," Cuban told Tim MacMahon of ESPNDallas.com. "Our approach never changes."

Even though Cuban is willing to take on salary, he said that doesn't mean he'll be able to trade Butler's expiring contract.

"The other side has to want to make the trade," Cuban said.

The Mavericks have shown interest in Philadelphia's Andre Iguodala and Houston's Kevin Martin in the past and Cuban may call both those teams again.

The Mavericks hope to get Rodrigue Beaubois back in the near future and he might be the best replacement for Butler.

"We're going to go with what we've got," president Donnie Nelson told The Dallas Morning News. "We still have an A-performer at the NBA level in Shawn Marion. And we feel like there are a lot of different ways we can go with the roster we have.

"Plus, we want to be very careful with what we bring in because the chemistry with this team is so good."


Iguodala would be a great piece for the Mavs to add. While never a great shooter, he plays tremendous defense and is one of the best slashers to the rim that the league has. He can instantly be inserted into the starting SF slot that Butler abandoned with his injury. He can also be used as a point forward who can run the offense and give Jason Kidd a breather.

Suns changing stance on Nash?

Via Ryan Corazza of ESPN...

There continues to be no indication that Steve Nash is available -- a stance the team and Nash have taken since the Suns-Magic trade last month when some speculated Nash could be the next Sun on the move.

However, where once the team seemed dead set on keeping Nash, Sam Amick of FanHouse is reporting via a source the team is "'on the fence' about which direction to go" in regards to Nash.

So it's possible if the team continues to flounder along, they may indeed look to trade Nash and work on rebuilding.

Amick also reported that despite Raymond Felton's solid year so far in New York, the Knicks are still one of the teams monitoring the Nash situation.

"Despite the career year being had by free agent addition Felton, the Knicks have continued to target Nash and are prepared to make a pitch if the Suns send word that he is available," wrote Amick.

But for now, it doesn't appear the Suns are making their dynamic PG available to the Knicks or any other team.

After the Suns traded Hedo Turkoglu and Jason Richardson to the Magic, many began to ponder the future of Steve Nash in Phoenix.  The Knicks have been mentioned as a possible destination for Nash.  Would the Knicks be bold enough to put together a package including Raymond Felton for Nash?  Nash is under contract thru next season, the same as Chris Paul (assuming he doesn't accept his 2012-2013 player option).  The Knicks could trade for Nash now and then try to sign Chris Paul in the summer of 2012, depending on their cap situation.


UPDATE Via Ryan Corrazza of ESPN...

On Tuesday, a report from Sam Amick of FanHouse included word the Suns were "on the fence" about what to do with Steve Nash.

As such, it's reasonable to take a look at some teams that could be a fit for him if the team indeed decides to move their PG by February's trade deadline.

The Knicks are obviously in the mix, and ESPN's Tom Haberstroh added the Rockets and Thunder to the list as well Wednesday -- two teams with a bevy of assets to include in any such deal.

Two other teams that could show interest in Nash are the Trail Blazers -- who are reportedly dangling Andre Miller -- and Charlotte. The Bobcats were said to be shopping D.J. Augustin in hopes of landing a new PG, but the latest is new coach Paul Silas likes Augustin, so Nash may not come into the picture for them now.

Orlando reportedly was interested in acquiring Chris Paul when there were rumblings he could be on the move this past summer, and GM Otis Smith has proven he'll shake things up if it means bringing in talent to try and win a title before Dwight Howard hits free agency.

The Blazers make sense as a possible destination for Suns.  Andre Miller and Brandon Roy have not been on the same page since Miller joined the team.  Roy is the future of the Blazers so he isn't going anywhere.  

The Knicks have been mentioned as a possible destination for Nash.  Would the Knicks be bold enough to put together a package including Raymond Felton for Nash?  Nash is under contract thru next season, the same as Chris Paul (assuming he doesn't accept his 2012-2013 player option).  The Knicks could trade for Nash now and then try to sign Chris Paul in the summer of 2012, depending on their cap situation.

As for the Bobcats, Michael Jordan has been looking at different ways to ignite some energy in this team, recently checking in on the Carmelo Anthony sweepstakes.  While Paul Silas may be a fan of D.J. Augustin, he is nowhere near on the same level as Nash and if a trade were to be worked out, I'm pretty sure Silas will find a way to be a fan of Nash as well.

Orlando seems to be a wild card in all of this.  The Magic were mentioned at times as a possible destination for Carmelo Anthony but after their blockbuster moves in December, one would think they're done making any major moves.