Deep Thoughts

A lot of people all over the internet (and the world for that matter), always ask questions about their favorite sports team.  On the Cubs, such never-ending questions could be asked like why Kerry Wood hasn't been retained, or if Jake Peavy will be on the North Side next year via trade...the list goes on and on of common "talk-radio" type questions wondered aloud by the masses.  However, some very important issues often go undiscussed and fade into a black hole of very important topics that never will get addressed, only to be overshadowed by improbably trade proposals, and other minor matters.  Well here, in this post, will be collected some very important questions that never do seem to get answered.  They will mainly include the Cubs, but may delve outside into other arenas of concern.  It will be updated as new questions arise, or are thought of:

Topic #1: The LH-bat that could've been.  In the offseason before the 2007 season, the Chicago Cubs had a very high pick in the Rule 5 Draft, which allows teams to pick from a variety of "unprotected" players in other teams farm systems.  With that pick they selected a troubled outfielder in the Tampa Bay system named Josh Hamilton.  Hamilton was drafted by the Rays in 1999 with the very first pick in the draft as a talented prospect.  However, over the next six years, he never advanced above A-ball due to a dark time in his life with drugs (even out of the game for four years).  After selecting him in the Rule 5 Draft, the Cubs immediately traded him to the Cincinnati Reds for cash (the Cubs were actually selecting him on the Reds' behalf all along).  Now, as many baseball fans know, Hamilton as gone on the past two seasons to have quite a Hollywood-caliber comeback.  In 2007, he started about half the season for the Reds, hitting .292 with 19 homeruns.  He was then traded to the Rangers for Edinson Volquez (who had a solid 2008 for the Reds, putting up a Cy Young quality season).  In 2008, Hamilton further developed his skills playing the entire season as the Rangers starting CF.  Not only did he mash 32 homeruns, knock in 130 RBI, and hit .304, but he also finished runner-up in a Home Run Derby at Yankee Stadium that caught the eyes of the nation.  Now, my question:  If the Cubs were in a position to obtain Josh Hamilton themselves, why did they not draft him in that Rule 5 Draft and keep him?  He is exactly what they have been searching for the past few off-seasons (actually further back then that); he hits left-handed!  He provides good defense, has some speed, hits for a lot of power, is a middle-of-the-order lefty to break-up Derek Lee and Aramis Ramirez, he has a high OBP, and did I mention POWER.  He could be the solution in CF if Felix Pie never pans out, or he could play right, which is what the Cubs are looking for this off-season.  So, that is a main question that has never been answered, nor discussed, in the world of sports commentary.  How could such a perfect fit for the Cubs, that could so easily have been had in that Rule 5 Draft, just slip through the organization's fingers and be an All-Star now for another team?  That's a deep thought that may never be answered.

Topic #2: What's goin' on with Josh?  The Cubs had the 3rd overall pick in the 2007 MLB Amateur Draft, and they selected high school third baseman Josh Vitters out Cypress, CA.  He was highly-touted to have a great swing, hit for power and a high average.  Numerous respected baseball websites have him ranked as the Cubs' top prospect, and one of their only blue-chip prospects.  He has been mentioned as a future replacement for Aramis Ramirez when the time should come.  So my question is:  Why do we never hear about him?  I'd like to know more about him.  I want to see who some respected experts compare him to, and know how he's developing in the minor leagues.  It could be possible that with all his high school credentials and tools, he may turn into another third baseman in the mold of David Wright, Ryan Zimmerman, or Evan Longoria (all with similar resumés at his age).  Along with Vitters, the Cubs could have some other possible future stars on their hands, but unfortunately the mass-public can never get the chance to hear much about them, or what the real experts think.  Supposedly, the Cubs recently signed some kids out of Korean high school, and one shortstop has been compared to Derek Jeter: that's pretty good.  Another prospect projects as a future big-leaguer with Orlando Hudson like potential, but all we can find are a few pages of minor league stats (which in many cases can amount to not much).  It would be really beneficial if all of these prospects could be spoken about more to the actual fans that are waiting for the next generation of stars.  Every player out there got their start somewhere, so it is very important to always remain cutting edge in international and domestic scouting to find that talent.  Some kid throwing mangos in the Dominican Republic is going to be the next Pedro Martinez.  Some kid not even born yet will probably develop into another Alex Rodriguez.  Some kid at home in Japan will dream of being the next Ichiro.  The record books of baseball will keep being rewritten, and it would be nice for the average fan to have some insight on which prospects their team controls have the potential and growth to develop into that next Rookie of the Year, All-Star, super-star, or legend of the game.  But until then, we'll just see lists of stats, top prospect signings and names, and wait for them to spring up on us in the majors and do their thing...Surprise!

Happy Holidays...2 Days Early!

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A Colbert Christmas: John Legend

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Bill O'Reilly Interview

Solution for Cubs' Playoff Woes: Be "Idiots"

In 2004, the Boston Red Sox ended 86 years of frustration by winning the World Series.  Many attributed their success to the "idiot" mantra put in place by many of the team's laid-back, easy-going players.  In particular, Johnny Damon, Derek Lowe, Kevin Millar, David Ortiz, Manny Ramirez, and Pedro Martinez.  Now, at the start of the 2009 campaign, the Chicago Cubs will embark on their season not having won a world championship in 101 years.  This team, however, has done what past Cubs rosters couldn't: succeed on a consistent basis.  Led by Lou Piniella, the Cubs won the NL Central Division Championship two years in a row (2007, 2008), however quietly exited the playoff picture both seasons.  In each playoff appearance, the team look nervous, pressing, and not at all like the team that would win 97 games in a 2008 campaign in which they had eight All-Stars.  Now, embarking on this offseason, there doesn't look to be any significant holes in the Cubs roster; most of the 97-win team is still intact.  However, one notices a funny thing when looking at the list of free agents and available players...Damon, Lowe, Millar, Pedro Martinez, and Manny Ramirez are all presumably available.  Thus a proposition can be made for the Cubs: why not bring some of these "idiots" in to not only add talent, but lighten the postseason clubhouse and put their "curse-ending' magic to work on another organization.  Each of the following players could fit in the Cubs' 2009 plans:

-Johnny Damon is not a free agent, however, he is entering the final year of his contract with the New York Yankees making $13 million.  When looking at the Yankees current situation, they are in desperate need of pitching, but along with the recent acquisition of Nick Swisher, have a surplus of OF/1B/DH types.  Out of Johnny Damon, Hideki Matsui, Xavier Nady, Melky Cabrera, Brett Gardner, Nick Swisher, Jorge Posada, and possibly FA, #3 hitter Bobby Abreu...Damon and Matsui would seem the most expendable entering the final year of their contracts.  The Cubs could presumably trade Jason Marquis and his $9.875 million salary (along with maybe a mid-level prospect) to the Yankees for Damon.  Therefore, both teams exchange high contracts while getting a more appropriate piece of need.  On next year's Cubs team, Johnny Damon could fill a void in adding a left-handed lead-off hitter with speed and power, as well as adding exceptional defense in right field.  In addition to the skills, he would be one piece of the previously aforementioned "idiots."

-After trading away Jason Marquis in the above proposal, the Cubs would be in need of a 5th starter.  They could fill this need in-house, but there are two free-agent options that are intriguing.  They could go the route of Derek Lowe, who has said he's seeking a 3-year deal on a team with a chance at a championship.  Lowe dominated the Cubs in his postseason start against them, and would be a welcome addition to the pitching staff and the the clubhouse.  Another option, however, which could pay dividends and be a low-risk, extremely-high reward type thing, would be a signing of free agent Pedro Martinez.  After some injury slowed seasons in New York, Pedro would take an incentive-laden deal with ace potential.  In addition to this former Cy Young winner's talent, Pedro is another aforementioned "idiot."

-I'm just gonna mention it here real quick...even though it'd be great, the Cubs are probably not going to sign Manny (the biggest "idiot" of them all in 2004...and I mean that with the utmost respect for him and his amazing talents).

-The last free agent possibility out there is none other than Mr. "Cowboy-Up" himself: Kevin Millar.  Millar was an integral part in the "idiot" atmosphere in 2004, and would play a vital role of pinch-hitter, backup 1B/OF that was lost in Daryle Ward filing for free agency.

So in this very do-able proposal, the Cubs would add Johnny Damon to play RF, Pedro Martinez as the 5th starter with ace-potential, and Kevin Millar to the bench, thus reuniting the Damon-Pedro-Millar combo that brought the "idiot" attitude to the 2004 World Series Champion, Curse-breaking, Boston Red Sox...and can do the same for the 2009 Chicago Cubs.

Rahmbo will be Obama's Ari Gold?...Read on...

In the TV show Entourage, Jeremy Piven's character Ari Gold (rambunctious Hollywood superagent), is actually said to be based on real Hollywood superagent Ari Emanuel: the younger brother of new White House Chief-of-Staff Rahm Emanuel.  So according to many articles around the internets, Rahm Emanuel will bring an Ari-like attitude to Washington.  For those who have seen Entourage, these predictions are about to make Washington D.C. a little more interesting.  For more insight on the real life Emanuel brothers, and a hilarious Piven-like tirade, SNL skit, see below:

-Jewish Journal article

-another funny article comparing Rahm to Piven's Ari Gold

-SNL video embedded below

Hot Stove Shines Red, White, and Blue

At this time of year, GM's around baseball are thinking of ways to improve their clubs by throwing piles of cash at the plethora of free agents and drawing up countless trade proposals.  However, there is a team being put together that will consist of baseball's biggest names and cost nothing; that team is Team USA, gearing up for the 2009 World Baseball Classic next spring.  Three years ago, a stacked Team USA was bounced from the tournament with a disappointing 3-3 record, with many players citing a lack of preparation and team-gelling as the main downfall.  This time around, players welcomed back to the team figure to fire-up the current roster into a much better showing.  However, those 30 players who make up the roster are yet to be picked.  There are numerous big names available, most of whose status is yet unknown, pending their team's approval.  I believe that if Team USA was to be comprised of a close-knit group of superstars who were able to compete in a few of these tournaments and spend quality time together during them, it would be a valuable stepping stone to a possible United States gold medal journey at the 2016 Olympics in Chicago, (if baseball is re-admitted in the games) similar to the inspiring performance of Team USA Basketball in Beijing.  Superstar teams in the Olympics, like basketball, not only inspire world audiences, but provide numerous marketing opportunities should baseball decide to go that path; as evident by the USA Basketball reality show, and Nike collection of Olympic apparel, as well as the high television ratings and commercial appeal.  Back to this year's WBC, however, below is a detailed projection of what the 2009 USA Baseball team could look like, if those named decide to participate.  This is one stacked team, if you ask me...

Pitching Staff

Bullpen

-Scott Shields -Kerry Wood

-Jonathan Papelbon -Huston Street

-Joe Nathan -Brian Fuentes (L)

-Bobby Jenks -David Price (L)

-Brad Lidge -Jonathan Broxton

Starting Rotation

1. C.C. Sabathia

2. Jake Peavy

3. Cole Hamels

4. Roy Oswalt

5. Matt Garza

(Other possibles: Beckett, Webb, Haren, Lester, Shields, Lilly, Chamberlain, Lincecum)

Starting Infield

1B-Mark Teixiera 3B-Alex Rodriguez

2B-Chase Utley SS-Derek Jeter

Starting Outfield

LF-Ryan Braun CF-Grady Sizemore RF-Josh Hamilton

Bench

IF-Evan Longoria, Chipper Jones, Michael Young

(Brian Roberts, Dustin Pedroia, Ian Kinsler, Dan Uggla, Jimmy Rollins, Stephen Drew, Ryan Howard, David Wright, Lance Berkman, Derrek Lee, Adrian Gonzalez, Prince Fielder)

OF-B.J. Upton, Carlos Quentin, Vernon Wells

(Torii Hunter, Nick Markakis, Carl Crawford, Curtis Granderson, Matt Holliday, J.D. Drew, Matt Kemp, Andre Ethier)

Catchers

-Joe Mauer

-Brian McCann

-Jason Varitek

(A.J. Pierzynski, Kurt Suzuki, Taylor Teargarden)

DG '08: Bill Clinton Offers Insight

Are You Ready for Some Football?

 

 

Football season is upon us as a slew of preaseason games went down tonight accross the NFL. Among them, the Chicago Bears took on the KC Chiefs at home at Soldier Field.  Despite the 24-20 loss, it was a great chance to get a look at some of the new players, as well as players who don't get much playing time during the regular season.  During the first half, the Bears were held to just a field goal, however rookie RB Matt Forte got 7 carries under his belt to start his NFL career, as he rushed for 25 yards.  The second half was where the Bears really started to shine and show some depth.  Backup LB Rod Wilson had an interception, which opened the door to a 25-yd TD on a Grossman-to-Wolfe screen play.  On that offensive play, Wolfe showed extreme speed and elusiveness that could prove valuable in the regular season.  Wolfe had that reception TD, as well as 64 rushing-yds on 7 carries (including a 42 yd burst).  RB PJ Pope also provided some steady running, as he had 8 carries and 4 receptions for a total of 56 yds.  Another surprisingly solid performance came from young Bear QB Caleb Hanie, and undrafted free agent out of Colorado State.  Hanie entered the game in the third quarter and went 9/16 for 101 yds and a TD.  He showed great poise as he led the Bears on a scoring drive in the 3rd quarter that included a 25-yd completion to rookie TE Kellen Davis, and 13-yd TD pass to WR Brandon Rideau.  Hanie then led the Bears on the final drive of the game, again showing poise down the stretch.  He made two fine passes (which could have won the game for the Bears) that were unfortunately dropped by rookies Marcus Monk and Earl Bennett (rookie jitters, hopefully).  In other notes, the young O-Line provided some nice pass protection, despite the news that first-rounder Chris Williams had undergone back surgery the night before to repair a herniated-disk.  Also, youngsters S Kevin Payne, DT Marcus Harrison, and LB Nick Roach turned in solid performances on defense.  Overall, this was a good night that gave the players some valuable game experience, and also gave us a look at some of our rookies who may be able to fill key roles during the regular season.

Tonight's stats:

Passing- Caleb Hanie 9/16...101 yds...1 TD

Receiving-Pope 4 rec/39 yds...Wolfe 1/25 yds/TD...Davis 1/25 yds

Rushing-Wolfe 7 car/64 yds...Forte 7 car/25 yds...Hanie 2/21 yds

ESPN Box Score

NFL Game Center

"Oh, crap. I think I've made a huge mistake."- Broadway Brett

Is a picture worth a thousand words, or what?  Brett Favre has been traded to the New York Jets for a conditional 2009 draft pick.

DG Live: Trade Deadline '08 Looking to Impress

When it looked like all was going to be relatively quiet, MLB GM's sprung into action moving star players left and right.  After the previous weeks had seen such large deals as C.C. to Milwaukee and Harden to the Cubs, another big deal went down days before the deadline.  The Atlanta Braves traded star, switch-hitting 1B Mark Teixeira to the Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim.  This move, made by baseball's best team (statistically, of course) is clearly a addition in ammo meant for October.  Tex adds another huge bat to an offense already featuring Vlad, Tori Hunter, and Garret Anderson.  Then, today (a day before the July 31 [non-waiver] Trade Deadline, the Yankees made a move to replace their star catcher (Jorge Posada who is out for the season with a shoulder injury) with another star catcher, acquiring "Pudge" Rodriguez from the Tigers for reliever Kyle Farnsworth (a move that nearly brought Yankee manager Joe Girardi to tears, because of their close relationship after Girardi caught Farnsworth in Chicago).  Now, with less than 24 hours remaining before the Trade Deadline, there looks to be a third major trade on the brink of happenning.  The Boston Red Sox seem set on trading Manny being Manny, seemingly sick of his personality.  There is a trade on the table, according to sources citied by MLBTradeRumors.com, which would send Manny to the Marlins, while the Red Sox get Jason Bay from the Pirates, and the Pirates get Hermidia from the Marlins (with prospects also involved to all teams).  Now to me, this trade seems extremely stupid.  While Manny may be causing distractions for the Red Sox front office, he is still producing on the field (.301 AVG/20 HR/68 RBI) and is one of the greatest hitters in history.  And they want to get him off the team for Bay, a guy who would certainly be a downgrade from Manny:  1)he is not the seasoned hitter mentally that Manny has proven to be, 2)you'd be losing Manny's electric personality in Fenway, 3) you'd be losing the invaluable friendship between Manny and fellow partner-in-crime David Ortiz.  If I had those two in the middle of my lineup, I'd ride the power wave to championship town (2 WS titles in last 5 years) as long as I could.  Now if this deal was made, it would certainly be a steal for the Marlins here.  They'd be acquiring a proven hitter for the middle of their lineup, who along with Hanley Ramirez and Dan Uggla would give them a nice core to compete in the N.L. East (of which they're only 1.5 games out right now).  In other trade news, the Cubs are looking great, beating the Brew Crew the last three games in convincing fashion.  They already bolstered their team this year by adding released center fielders Reed Johnson and Jim Edmonds who have been key cogs to the offense (along with much-improved Mike Fontenot and Ronny Cedeño).  They also traded for a true #2 (actually an ace of his former staff), Rich Harden who has been stellar in three outings.  In addition to the offense and starting staff, the bullpen has also become a strength as the emergence of Jeff Samardzija, Chad Gaudin, Neal Cotts, and Sean Marshall adds to the already stellar Kerry Wood and Carlos Marmol for a solid staff of late-inning, shut-down arms that Lou can feel confident in calling upon.  However, there have been rumblings that the Cubs have inquired on a few left-handed, outfield bats.  Most notable, according to MLBTradeRumors.com, Brian Giles, Raul Ibanez, and David DeJesus.  One last item that this blogger would like to touch upon, is the stunning availability of a major offensive threat to any of the 30 MLB teams.  There is a player out there who can be had for no prospects or players of any level.  He can give you instant help to the tune of major power, a +.400 OBP, a leadership prescence in the clubhouse, and a serious offensive boost for the fall.  And he'll only cost around $300,000.  Who is this player?  The answer: Barry Bonds.  He is still a FA, who told the Yankees last week (before they acquired Nady and Pudge) that he'd play for them for $300 K and donate it all to buy tickets for kids.  If you're worried about his legal troubles, he doesn't have a court date of any kind until next spring.  If you're worried about his clubhouse consequences a signing will have, he has been said to be a great clubhouse prescence who improves younger players.  And if you're worried about his offensive production, well he said he could be ready in about 10 days, he is BARRY BONDS!!, and he has produced every single year he's been healthy.  I don't think there is a question about his offense.  If I was a GM, I would sign him in a heartbeat.  And looking at teams like the Rays, who seemingly need one DH/OF bat to be serious contenders, I think it'd be a smart idea.

Cubs Acquire Harden, Gaudin in 6-Player Swap

Before this evenings' Cubs game, it was announced that Jim Hendy had pulled the trigger on a 6-player deal sending talented Oakland ace Rich Harden to the Cubs along with reliever Chad Gaudin.  As part of the move, Sean Gallagher, Matt Murton, Eric Patterson, and minor-league catcher Josh Donaldson have been sent to the Oakland A's.  Gallagher is expected to join the A's rotation, while Murton and Patterson will be sent to Triple-A Sacramento (Donaldson may be promoted to the A's Double-A team).  The Cubs, meanwhile, gain a talented, young, right-handed ace pitcher to pair with Carlos Zambrano and strengthen the rotation.  In Gaudin, they also receive a valuable bullpen arm.  Harden is expected to make a start for the Cubs this weekend against the San Francisco Giants.  This move will no doubt add more depth to the Cubs starting rotation by allowing the Cubs to match-up with any N.L. club (including Milwaukee's C.C. Sabathia and Ben Sheets).  Ryan Dempster, Ted Lilly, and Marquis/Marshall combination are expected to fill-out the remaining three slots.

Cubbie Blue in the Bronx

For this year's All-Star Game in New York City, hosted by the Yankees, the Cubs will have eight representatives playing key roles for the National League.  In the N.L. starting lineup, rookie C Geovany Soto will start behind the plate, while fellow rookie Kosuke Fukudome will get an outfield start alongside teammate Alfonso Soriano (whose status is questionable due to injury).  The N.L. pitching staff will have Cubs' starters Carlos Zambrano and Ryan Dempster, while Kerry Wood will be one of the closers.  In addition, 3B Aramis Ramirez will be on the roster as a reserve at the hot corner.  On the National League bench, Lou Piniella was added as a coach to assist Rockies' manager Clint Hurdle.  This is the highest number of Cubs sent to the Midsummer Classic ever in club history.  On the American League side, the defending World Series champion Red Sox also have seven players on the team.  The All-Star Game will be on July 15th at Yankee Stadium.

Hawks Add Top Talent as NHL Free Agency Begins

At noon eastern time Tuesday, the NHL Free Agency signing period officially began; and signifying a commitment to winning in the new era of Chicago Blackhawks hockey, GM Dale Tallon set off on a spree of signing two of the best available players.  In shoring up two areas of need, the Hawks acquired defenseman Brian Campbell and goaltender Cristobal Huet.  Campbell, who was traded to San Jose from Buffalo at last year's trade deadline, signed for an astounding 8 years/$56.8 million.  He is self-described as a complete player, but is known for contributing on the offensive side.  He will add a perfect dimension in quarterbacking the Blackhawks power-play attack (which was weak last year), as well as adding depth to a young, defensive core on Chicago's blueline.  Huet, meanwhile, signed for 4 years at just over $5 million/year.  He was one of the league's top goaltenders last year for both Montreal and Washington, to whom he was traded at the deadline.  Had had 32 wins last season, including 9 straight wins to help the Capitals make the playoffs.  Hawks GM Dale Tallon stated that his intention right now is to have Huet split time with current Blackhawk netminder Nikolai Khabibulin (who is being paid over $6 million in the last year of his deal).  In regards to the day's events, Dale Tallon had this to say:

"Habby and Cristobal give us great goaltending to go with a really good defense.  We scored goals last year.  We were in the top 10 despite injuries.  But our goals against was too high and our power play was not very good, so shoring up our defense and goaltending will help get us to where we want to go...There's only so much money that goes around.  We paid a lot of money for the services of these players.  We have to be careful now and give our young players an ability to come in and play some of those other positions."

Now, the Hawks are $3 million over the salary cap for the coming season and seemingly have some good talent going into this season, but some big names still remain for the taking in the NHL Free Agency pool.  Among them are Marian Hossa, Brendan Shannahan, and Jaromir Jagr.  I believe that it would be an outstanding move if the Hawks could somehow sign one of these players to add to the top offensive lines, and give them another lock they could count on to produce big numbers.  Another signing I'd like to see by the Hawks: Pens-UFA enforcer Georges Laraque.  He's done a nice job protecting Sid the Kid and the rest of Pittsburgh's young talent, I believe he'd be a good addition to do the same in Chicago with Kane/Towes and the rest of this young roster.  The Hawks could be looking for an enforcer-type now that David Koci signed with Tampa Bay.  One player in the system, however, who could fill this role (and much more) sooner, rather than later, is recent 1st round draft choice Kyle Beach.  Beach is not only a tough guy, but also was rated as the top 2 or 3 forward in this year's draft with great offensive talent.

Here's some links to articles about today's Blackhawk signings, as well as some overall NHL rumor/news sites:

Chicago Blackhawk's Official Site-Campbell Says Yes to Hawks

ESPN-Hawks add D Campbell after agreeing with G Huet

HockeyBuzz.com

TheFourthPeriod.com

SecondCityHockey.com

In some other, marquee news from today's NHL signings, a goalie-shuffle transpired as Jose Theodore signed with the Capitals, pushing Olaf Kolzig to sign with Tampa Bay, and Andrew Raycroft replaced Theodore in Colorado.  Minnesota sniper Brian Rolston signed a deal with the Devils, and D Wade Redden signed with the Rangers.  We now keep an eye out in the coming days to see where superstars Jagr, Shannahan, Hossa, and Sundin end up!

DG Update on 06/29

After a week for the Cubs that was kind of a downer, I didn't feel like posting much.  However, there were two important items this week that were worth checking in on.  First of all, the NBA Draft went down on Thursday night from the WaMu Theater in New York's Madison Square Garden.  In that draft, the Bulls selected Memphis' Freshman PG Derrick Rose with the very first pick.  Rose is expected to be a special player who can lead the franchise to success, just like Deron Williams (Jazz) and Chris Paul (Hornets) have done with their teams in recent years.  As expected, Michael Beasley went second to the Miami Heat, followed by a flurry of other NCAA and International stars.  In some of the more notable picks, SoCal freshman stars O.J. Mayo and Kevin Love swapped spots at #3 and #5 ending up in Memphis and Minnesota, respectively.  Portland also landed top PG talent Jerryd Bayless to lead their young nucleus of Roy, Aldridge, and Oden.  On the Bulls front, Rose is expected to be the starting PG (in spite of GM John Paxson's comments that he'll have to earn his spot), meaning that Kirk Hinrich is expendable.  He could be traded for another big-man up front.  Denver has been mentioned as a possibility (Nene? Camby?).

In other news, Indy Racing was under the lights Saturday in Richmond, where Tony Kanaan ran away with the checkered flag.  Helio Castroneves finished a distant second, as Marco Andretti finished ninth.  After the race, Kanaan commented about his first win this season, how they're charging up the standings, and how "I feel bad about Marco.  I think he has as strong a car as I had."  Said Helio about finishing second: "I wasnt' the fastest, but second is pretty darned good."  Andretti Green Racing had a good race, as winner Tony Kanaan led 166 of the 300 laps, Marco led 90 laps, Danica finished sixth, and Hideki Mutoh was competetive until DNF'ing on lap 220.  The drivers will be back at it next Sunday from Watkins Glen at 2:30 PM CT on ABC.

Celtics Win 17th Banner in 2nd Biggest News Item of Day

Late last night, the Boston Celtics pounded the Los Angeles Lakers with their signature defense and teamwork, and won their 17th NBA Finals Championship by almost 40 points.  The regulars sat out for most of the 4th quarter, as everyone got their shot to contribute in stellar fashion.  After the clock wound down to 0.0 seconds, the new Boston Garden erupted as the Big 3 (along with the rest of the team) finally got what they coveted not only after a long and memorable season, but long careers without a ring.  As if nothing could top an emotional and huge night from Boston, MA, the world awoke this morning to the shocking news that Tiger Woods will miss the remainder of the 2008 PGA Tour Season, including the last two majors (British Open and PGA Championship).  Tiger Woods revealed that he did not want to trump the efforts of the USGA's US Open, but their was some news he now needed to reveal.  Apparently, after last year's British Open, Tiger ruptured his left ACL while running at his home in Florida, but continued to play the rest of that season and this season while obliterating his competition.  Playing through pain through most of this year (including his runner-up finish at the 2008 Masters) he decided that he needed arthroscopic surgery in his left knee to clear up the cartilage damage caused by the ACL injury.  Still in pain, he had planned to return in this year's Memorial Tournament, but a double-stress fracture in his left knee was also found.  Determined to play through the pain, Tiger finally made his return in this past weekend's US Open at Torrey Pines.  Looking back on the injuries now makes his accomplishments both this past weekend, as well as over the past year, all the more amazing.  However, after the pain he experienced and the condition of his knee, he announced today that he needs to undergo reconstructive knee surgery on his left ACL, which will cause him to miss the remainder of the year.  Tiger said in a statement: 

"While I am obviously disappointed to have to miss the remainder of the season, I have to do the right thing for my long-term health and look forward to returning to competitive golf when my doctors agree that my knee is sufficiently healthy. My doctors assure me with the proper rehabilitation and training, the knee will be strong and there will be no long-term effects."

Woods also said that he'd "like to thank his fans and partners for thier continual support and can assure everyone that I will be as dedicated to rehabilitating my knee as I am in all other aspects of my career."  Best of luck to Tiger's surgery and recovery, and we'll will probably see him back on the golf course competing in next year's PGA Tour tournaments.  Tiger's dramatic win at Torrey Pines gave him his 65th PGA Tour victory, and his 14th career major victory, just four behind all time leader Jack Nicklaus.  You can read all about Tiger's injury at this ESPN.com article, or on Tiger's official website, tigerwoods.com.

DG Video: Tiger Outlasts Rocco

After 91 holes of golf over five days, Tiger Woods outlasted Rocco Mediate to win the 2008 US Open at Torrey Pines for his 14th career major victory.  It was a back-and-forth battle all day, as each player had the lead moments of time.  Tiger made some great putts early in the day to hold Rocco back, eventually gaining a three-shot lead with about half of the course to play.  Then, things took a big swing as Rocco regained the lead and took a one-stroke advantage to the 18th hole.  At that 18th hole, Tiger was making all of his shots, as Rocco struggled around the bunkers and fairway.  Even then, it came down to Tiger making his birdie and Rocco missing his, and the tournament went to a 91st hole in sudden death.  On that sudden death, Rocco missed his par putt to extend the championship, as Tiger Woods took home the hardware in what he called his "best [championship] ever."  It was an amazing five days, filled with Tiger memories, as he continues to prove why he is the best player in the world, and going to be (if not already) the best ever.  He made putt after putt, eagled three times, amazed himself, long drives, great iron shots, stellar chips, and remain driven and focused---all on one healthy knee.  Rightfully so, Tiger said that he will take some more time off now to give his knee time to fully recuperate to get back to the 100% Tiger we all know.  With his 14th major victory under his belt, he is now four behind Jack Nicklaus on the career major victories list; and the British Open and PGA Championship still remain this year.  For all the ESPN highlights of today's playoff and Tiger's victory, see the link to the video below.

US Open Playoff Highlights

DG Video: Tiger Not Done Yet

As if Saturday's 3rd round performance wasn't amazing enough, Tiger followed it up with another eventful day at Torrey Pines.  Through the first two holes, he relinquished his one stroke lead and dropped three shots on the day, falling back to even while showing some pain in his surgically-repaired left knee.  However, going through the day and picking up some adrenaline and competitive fire, he kept pace with the top of the field.  Culminating numerous par-saves and smart decisions on adjusting his game to complement his knee's strength, Tiger arrived at the 18th hole.  With Rocco Mediate in the clubhouse as the leader at -1 after a solid outing, Tiger had to birdie to tie him for the lead, as did Lee Westwood (the other member in Tiger's pair).  After both golfers drives landed in fairway bunkers, and proceeded to layup before the green, they both made it on the green with chances for birdie, playoff-clinching putts.  Westwood didn't quite strike his putt hard enough, and thus fell out of playoff contention.  Tiger, however, seemed to muster up all of the concentration and energy left from a surely physically demanding four days, and sunk the putt followed by an eruption of energy (both by Tiger, Stevie, and the entire gallery).  Tiger will now face Rocco in an 18-hole playoff tomorrow at Torrey Pines, beginning at 10:30 am on ESPN for the first nine holes, and concluding on NBC for the final nine.  Below is a link to ESPN SportsCenter's highlights of the day.  Be sure to check ESPN.com and SportsCenter for continuing coverage from Scott Van Pelt and Andy North in La Jolla, CA.  Good luck to Tiger in tomorrow's finale, and hoping for major number 14!

Rd.4 Highlights

DG Video: Tiger's Amazing Saturday

Tiger had yet another amazing day on Saturday at Torrey Pines.  He was multiple shots back at some points, but his last four holes ended in Tiger mastery.  Playing on one knee (and in visible, limping pain after some shots), Tiger roared back with 2 eagles and a hole-out from the sand to charge atop the leaderboard at -3 entering Sunday's final day of competition.  HIs shots were met with thunderous crowd responses louder than almost anything heard before, according to ESPN's Rick Reilly.  His final eagle putt on #18 was executed with such precision that it shows us how great of an athlete we are witnessing.  It reminded me of a David Feherty comment after one of Tiger's past, signature shots:  "That is just wrong on so many levels."  Even Tiger can be seen visibly amazed at some of the things he does.  The following are two great videos recapping the day in La Jolla.  The first is a link to ESPN Video of SportsCenter's highlights, while the second video is Rick Reilly's reaction to the day's events.

SportsCenter at US Open: 3rd Round Highlights

DG Entertainment: Gob's Tricks Gone Wrong

This is a great scene from Arrested Development, portraying some of Gob's many blunders in "Office Magic."  In other notes from Hulu.com, not only do they have all three seasons of Arrested Development, as well as shows like 30 Rock and The Office, but they have recently added full episodes and clips of The Daily Show and The Colbert Report.

Congrats Junior on 600th HR!

Future HOF-er Ken Griffey Jr. hit the 600th home run of his career in the first inning of Monday's Reds-Marlins game, becoming only the sixth member of the exclusive club, along with Sosa (609), Mays (660), Ruth (714), Aaron (755), and Bonds (762).  Junior has always been one of the best players in the game, having a flair for having fun and actually "playing" the game.  He invented the backward hat (seen above), and will always be among the games greatest players.

DG Tech: WWDC '08 brings iPhone 3G + AppStore & MobileMe

Today, Apple kicked-off the 2008 World Wide Developers Conference with the usual Steve Jobs keynote to introduce some new, exciting products.  It was much of what was expected leading up to the event, some of which were updates to what we already knew.  The first thing they showed was an update on the three new features to the iPhone: 1)Enterprise features 2)SDK (Software Development Kit) and 3)iPhone Software 2.0.  The Enterprise features included support for Microsoft Exchange (with push email,contacts, calendar), and showed a video of numerous executives praising the iPhones usefulness in corporate America.  Then, the iPhone SDK was updated, with many developers demoing new apps that they will be releasing with the AppStore (which will launch in early July).  SEGA made a game called SuperMonkey Ball, in which you tilt the iPhone to roll a monkey in a ball around numerous levels of an obstacle course.  Pangea ported their game CroMag Rally to iPhone, in which you "steer" the iPhone to race cavemen through numerous entertaining courses.  Then came some more useful apps, as medical companies designed apps in which you can diagram the human body, or even view patient X-Rays and PET/MRI/CT scans on the go.  Perhaps the most exciting new app to me, as well as most readers of this blog I presume, was MLB's new iPhone app.  Through this app, you can keep track of all the day's games through GameDay like interfaces.  In addition, within minutes after big plays happen on the field, you can view a video highlight right on your iPhone, no matter where you are.

Next up, Apple demoed a new service to keep your life in sync, across every platform you utilize.  The new service, labeled MobileMe, will replace .Mac.  Through this service, you can access your Mail, Contacts, Calendar, and Photos no matter where you are--all delivered in desktop-class, Web 2.0 applications on www.me.com.  Perhaps the most useful feature, however, is that all of these features will be synced to all of your devices via "push" technology wirelessly.  If you get an email, it will automaticall be pushed to your computer and iPhone from the MobileMe "cloud."  If you update a contact on your iPhone, it will automatically show up on Me.com and your computer's Address Book app.  This service will be automatically available in early July, as well.

Then came what everyone was waiting for, and expecting, for today...the iPhone 3G.  Jobs returned to the stage revealing the new product to much applause.  He detailed all of the requested improvements for the iPhone, and proceeded to show how these were reached.  First of course, this iPhone is at 3G speeds.  3G is must faster than the current 2G (or EDGE) speeds of the first generation iPhone.  In fact, demos showed that the National Geographic website loads in 59 seconds over EDGE, while 3G loads it in just 21 seconds (which is approaching the 17 seconds WiFi speeds).  Thus, the new iPhone is more than twice as fast as the old iPhone.  Along with 3G capability, Jobs revealed that this iPhone will also incorporate GPS technology.  The Maps app will know exactly where you are, and will be able to guide you anywhere you please...you'll never be lost again if you have an iPhone.  Next, Jobs addressed the issues of Enterprise and third party applications, which had already been taken care of earlier in the keynote.  Both Enterprise support (with Exchange support and Cisco-powered security), as well as third party apps (created by the SDK and distributed in the AppStore) will be fully functional and available out of the box upon the release of iPhone 3G.  The next issue tackled was for iPhone to be available in more countries, and that was addressed with Jobs saying that their goal of 25 countries by fall/winter will be exceeded as in the coming months, over 70 countries will have the iPhone.  This was accompanied by countries lighting up one-by-one on a world map to the song "It's a Small World" (did you know that Jobs is Disney's majority shareholder?).  The last issue was, of course, for the iPhone to be more affordable.  That was addressed with booming approval by the crowd, as Jobs announced that the new 8GB model will be sold for just $199 in a black, plastic casing, while the 16GB model will sell for $299 and come in black or white.  It goes on sale...July 11!  Also, some of the features will be available as a free iPhone Update 2.0 to current iPhone owners, and a $9.95 update to iPod touch owners.

Now obviously, these are some exciting  new products and features here today.  However, today's event was very developer focused with the iPhone SDK, and an early, secret preview of Mac OSX 10.6 "Snow Leopard," (which will concentrate on stability, performance, and security).  In addtion, the iPhone 3G provides a fast, affordable way for the iPhone to become more widespread around the world.  But today seemed to be missing the fun and innovation as seen from Jobs' keynotes in the past.  Maybe we'll see some of those products in the coming months, or within the year.  Some things that I was hoping for were:

-updates to the family of notebooks (MacBook,MacBook Pro)

-a Mac tablet.  There were many rumors for these leading up to WWDC.  Rumors of patents for tablet technology, video conferencing on an iPhone-like device, etc.  This has been a long-rumored product that will hopefully see light within the year...perhaps at Macworld 2009?

-a little more enthusiasm/fun/creativity from Jobs like usual...however, this was a very developer-aimed keynote that saw many other Apple executives give talks with a lot of technical information, so this is understandable.  A lot of business and technical information was discussed, but this was the World Wide Developers Conference, so maybe we'll see some fun stuff at Macworld 2009

So that wraps it up from an informative day of Apple news.  We now wait for the July 11 launch of iPhone 3G, and most likely the App Store and MobileMe.  Here are some links to the important products/information of the day:

MacRumorsLive keynote coverage

MacRumorsLive keynote photos

WWDC keynote Quicktime video

iPhone 3G

MobileMe

iPhone Ad

Apple.com

DG '08: McCain-Clinton (Real Change to Believe In)

This past Tuesday, as the primary season came to a close, Senator Obama has won enough delegates to make him the presumptive Democrat nominee for President.  Now, we begin the general election season as Senator McCain will take on Obama for the presidency.  The first order of business that is usually taken care of is the selection of each candidate's running mate.  Many names have been thrown out there on each side, most notably Condoleeza Rice and Rudy Giuliani with McCain and Hillary Clinton with Obama.  However, with the seemingly different crowds attached to Senators Obama and Clinton, there have been some doubts as to whether that relationship would work between them.  When looking at the primary figures, however, we can see that both candidates received rougly around 18 million votes (some say Senator Clinton received more).  With this information, there had been an interesting proposition that I had been thinking about.  It struck me as far from possible, however I saw it brought up in a Daily Show interview with John McCain, and most recently in this Wired.com article.  The idea was for John McCain to offer his V.P. position to none other than Senator Clinton.  I think that this is a brilliant idea, actually.  John McCain is already known for being a maverick in the Republican Party, and taking some not-so-typical-conservative stances on things.  He has pushed for both parties working together, and has actually disagreed with many of his GOP colleagues on numerous important issues.  HIllary Clinton could help give McCain not only the Republican voters, but maybe a majority of her 18 million Democrat votes.  In the presidency, they would be a dynamite ticket.  Barack Obama has been criticized for his lack of national security experience, and how he would handle the responsibilities of being President, after being in Washington for such a short period of time.  With a McCain/Clinton ticket, you have a huge amount of experience.  McCain is well-versed in politics, national security, and many of the major issues.  Hillary, meanwhile, could bring some of her experiences as First Lady with her (along with the expertise of her husband, Former President Bill Clinton), and can also contribute on some of her stronger issues.  Together they could form a very strong tandem that could be tackle numerous issues, and bring both parties in Congress together to make sure things get done.  According to sources cited in the above linked Wired article, if Hillary accepted this proposal then it would be beneficial for all the reason previously disscussed; if she said no, then "McCain will look like the guy who really works across party lines," something that Obama has tried to preach.  I, for one, believe that this would be an amazing situation if both McCain and Clinton could accept the "maverick-ness" of it, and come to see how brilliant it would be.  Senator McCain is the "straight-talk express" who has a plethora of experience in both Washington and national security, and would know how to get the job done and tell the American people the truth.  Senator Clinton, meanwhile, could play a great balance with him, and help him with many other "new" issues like scientific breakthroughs, women's issues, and climate change.  Together, both Senators McCain and Clinton (along with Bill Clinton), would truly make a "dream ticket" that could actually be a big "change" Americans could believe in.

DG Photo Quickie-Your Sports Update in a "Flash"

This week was a fun week in sports, and that fun is only just beginning.  Let's recap some of the big events in photos.  Starting with Tuesday's big news out of the NBA Draft Lottery:

With this pick, the Bulls have gained the potential to improve drastically next year.  They can now draft one of the two elite players in the June's draft: Derrick Rose, PG out of Memphis, or Michael Beasley, PF out of Kansas State.  Then, the pick would give them flexibility to trade a couple of guards/forwards they already have for other key pieces.  It is still early, but at this point I would choose Rose; the Chicago kid looks poised to follow in Chris Paul's and Deron Williams' footsteps as the next elite, NBA point-guard to lead his team to big things.

Next, we had Wednesday's UEFA Champions League Final, which pitted the two English clubs against each other for the title:

Late into the Moscow night, Manchester United and Chelsea FC battled for the crown in the pouring rain.  During regulation, Christiano Ronaldo headed in the goal for Man U, but after over 120 minutes, the teams were locked in a 1-1 tie.  For the fourth time in eight years, the UEFA final went to a shootout, as Manchester United took the crown after seven rounds.

Next up during the week, we started the Conference Finals in the NBA, as both the Lakers and the Celtics took leads over their opponents.  The Lakers, dominating the Spurs with good team play led by Kobe Bryant are 2-0 and will play Game 3 on Sunday.  While the Celtics, after losing their first game at home in Game 2, came right back to win on the road in Game 3 to go up 2-1 in their series.  They'll challenge the Pistons in Game 4 Monday night on ESPN.

In the other playoffs underway right now, the Pittsburgh Penguins and Detroit Red Wings started their final journey to hoisting the Stanley Cup on Saturday night.  The Pens came into Hockeytown and took a 4-0 loss to the Wings, as the 2008 Stanley Cup Finals started with authority.  The star power was also on hand for the ceremonial puck drop, as past Pen and Wing captains Super Mario Lemieux and Stevie Yzerman kicked off the festivities by dropping the pucks to current captains (and former teammates) Sidney Crosby and Niklas Lidstrom.

And finally, tomorrow it's time for ladies and gentlemen to "start their engines" as the 92nd running of the Indy 500 starts.  Danica Patrick, Tony Kanaan, Marco Andretti, and Helio Castroneves are all positioned to start towards the front, as a thrilling day of racing should be expected.

Home-Cooking Sends Cubs on the Road on Fire!

The Cubs are one HOT team.  They just completed a 10-game road stand with an 8-2 record; the last time the Cubs have won eight games on a homestand was way back in 1978.  This team, everyone included, is just too hot for any team to handle right now.  With everyone clicking on all cylinders, the Chicago Cubs are atop the MLB Pole-Position.  Did I mention they are hot?  Okay, enough of the much-deserved love-fest for now, let's get down to the real business.  The Cubs, at 27-17, now sit atop their perch of the NL Central Division by 2.0 games.  After a homestand that saw great pitching performances by starters (Dempster is 5-1) and bullpen alike (are you ready for some Marmolade?), Soriano hit .525 with 7 HR and 16 RBI, some helpful acquisitions and call-ups (Jim Edmonds, Micah Hoffpauir), and every player contribute, things are only looking up on the North Side.  Just to appreciate the dominance of the Cubs' performance thus far, consider that they are leading the entire Major Leagues with 255 runs scored (Boston is second with 239), a .373 team OBP leads the majors, and have a pitching staff that is currently ranked in the Top 3 in the NL in Wins, ERA, and Strikeouts.  As far as individual performances, the aforementioned Alfonso Soriano is on one of his patented hot-streaks, in which he has launched 7 HR in just 6 games while hitting .525 over the last 10 games (video here and here).  The rookies Geovany Soto and Kosuke Fukudome have been on-base machines, playing like they are the only two rookies in the league that deserve the ROY award (there homers can be viewed here and here).  Pitching wise, Carlos Marmol has been absolutely filthy, striking out 40 batters this year over just 28.0 innings.  Ryan Dempster, meanwhile, has 5 wins and is third in the NL with a 2.35 ERA, just ahead of the fourth place Carlos Zambrano's 2.45 ERA.  There have been a hand full of surprises, as well; such as DeRosa's versatile defense, Sean Gallagher's emergence over this homestand as a viable 5th starter, and the bargain-acquisition by Hendry of veteran Jim Edmonds to share playing time in center while Felix Pie develops in the minors.  Now, on to Houston where the Cubs can continue the fun and give themselves a little separation in the Central between themselves and the 2.5 game-back Houston Astros.