Orlando Magic trades shake up NBA

The Orlando Magic made major splashes as they opened up the market with two blockbuster deals in which they swapped stars with the Phoenix Suns and the Washington Wizards. The Magic shipped twelve year vet Vince Carter, along with Marcin Gortat, Mickael Pietrus, and a future first round pick to the deserts of Arizona for Swingman Jason Richardson, Earl Clark, and brings the return of Hedo Turkoglu to Orlando. Turkoglu, who played for the Magic from 2004- 2009 enjoyed the best years of his ten year career comes back to the warm south after spending the past season in Canada playing for the Toronto Raptors.

The other major trade that the Magic made was a straight swap of players with the Wizards sending troubled guard Gilbert Arenas to Florida in return for forward Rashard Lewis, the NBA's 2nd highest payed player. This move helps both the Wizards and the Magic giving Washington much need height inside and adding a talented two guard to Orlando's squad. the Magic really made a splash in the market and may see bright things ahead because of it.

-A

Why a playoff system should replace the BCS in College Football

One of the biggest controversies in all of sports the last few years has been the Bowl Championship Series (BCS), the way of determining the matchups in the bowls, including the national championship game. What college football really needs to do is to replace the current structure with a playoff system that would give a certain number of teams a chance to play at the national championship game. Under the BCS losing one game, especially for a team that is in a non- BCS conference (BCS conferences automatically send at least one team to a BCS bowl game), could be detrimental to your whole season, and losing two is out of the question. A playoff system is the right way to go for college football because it will add fairness and help decide the real, undisputed, national champion.

“The [BCS] is a five-game showcase of college football. It is designed to ensure that the two top-rated teams in the country meet in the national championship game, and to create exciting and competitive matchups among eight other highly regarded teams in four other bowl games.” (BCS Football)

This is what the BCS’ official site thinks of it but I along with many others think it’s totally wrong. Sometimes teams that go undefeated the whole season, like Utah in the 2008-09 season won’t even get a chance to play for the title game while teams that have a loss do just because they are from a BCS conference. This is not fair to those teams and it might also deprive the sport of actually having the best team win it all. The BCS also isn’t perfect. Just recently a mistake was discovered when the computer didn’t consider a Division II playoff game that had huge implications on the rankings. After they had to recall the rankings and redo them four of the top 25 teams were swapped around. What’s even more troubling is the same type of glitch might have occurred before and put the wrong team to play for the title affecting football history. This wouldn’t happen if a playoff was in place.

Playoffs would also let teams battle it out themselves and provide a huge cash flow for the participating universities. College basketball has a playoff fans and coaches alike love, that is very profitable, and fairly decides who the national champion is. I’m sure it would work in college football too, and I guess there is only one way to find out.

-A

Nico Law Interview (Commits to Iowa)

Ht: 6'3 Wt: 190

Pos: S Hometown: Clinton, MD

40 time: 4.47s Max bench: 300

Bishop McNamara High School (Forestville , MD) safety Nico Law, a three star rated prospect by rivals.com and one of the most feared defensive players in the WCAC, committed to the University of Iowa to play football next fall. Mr. Law, who received over twenty Division I Scholarship offers made this decision after he took a trip to Iowa City for his official campus visit over Halloween weekend. I caught up with Nico before the Mustangs season finale against the rival DeMatha Stags. Here is what he had to say about his commitment.

AF: What made the University of Iowa stand out above the twenty other Division I Schools that offered you scholarships?

Nico Law: I thought Iowa was the perfect fit. Iowa is a winning team and [has] been a winning team for the past ten years. Their coaching staff has all been there for more than ten years. The majority of their players have eventually moved on to the NFL or achieved something great in life. I think the opportunity to play early was something that I want to do and having the chance to play on a big stage that is filled with 75,000 plus fans. Plus they have one of the best defenses in collegiate football, something I would want to be apart of.

AF: According to a report by the Washington Post you had a negative impression of Iowa going into your official visit this past weekend. What changed your view of the school and the surrounding areas?

NL: My first negative thought was what can I possibly do in Iowa? Nothing! I can’t do this for the next 4 years. When I went up to [the University of] Iowa I actually realized that Iowa was located in Iowa City. There was more to do up there then I thought and the people were more genuine then the type of people I have grown up with, seen, or surround myself with everyday. I felt like I was stepping into the home, a family.

AF: How big of an influence did Coach Ferentz and the staff have on your decision?

NL: The coach had some influence on me as far as stability wise and just being [welcoming]. I respected the coach’s character and started to feel more comfortable about my surroundings.

AF: How big of an affect did the Hawkeyes 37-6 blowout win over previously undefeated Michigan State, a game you were in attendance at, have on your decision to verbally commit?

NL: Man the game was crazy I never seen so many fans in my life! Even though they blew them out it really didn’t impact my decision because I expected that. Iowa is about that business!

AF: Brandon Coleman (McNamara c/o 2010), currently a redshirted freshman at Rutgers stated that a strong relationship with QB Tom Savage played a major role in his college choice. Do you have any such relationships that have swayed you to choose Iowa?

NL: Marcus Coker from the DMV who went to DeMatha and a couple other guys from New Jersey.

AF: What was the whole recruiting process like for you? Did you enjoy it or was it stressful?

NL: The recruiting process was probably the one of the most cherished moments of my life. I got to see over 10 plus college campuses and the way they do things. I got to experience the media like being interviewed almost every other day, meeting wise men who made me mature faster and having the opportunity to actually have my own fans. It was kind of stressful too because you never know what decision you make in life will lead you to the right direction you want to take. I had the opportunity to go to more then twenty schools but you can only choose one. I had to do a lot of research.

AF: When did you first start following Hawkeye Football? Did you follow them at all before they started recruiting you?

NL: I never was a fan but I love watching college football so if you’re on TV, then you better believe I’m watching. So yes, I [had] been watching them before the recruiting process.

AF: In college, specifically the Big- 10 where a smash mouth style of play is commonplace you will be banging bodies with players much bigger then you. What do you plan on doing to be able to match up better physically with these guys?

NL: In my style of play I really don’t look at size. To me it’s all about heart and faith. I got a big heart so I plan to fulfill my aspirations. Each person on the field puts their clothes on just like me, why can’t I be the best on the field? I plan to workout Monday after this football season is over. I’m not really concerned with my size because when I go to college they are going to easily put 20 or more pounds on me. I’m going to workout twice a day and work on areas such as my speed and strength.

AF: Do you believe that it will be easy for you to transition from being an OLB in High School to being a Safety in college?

NL: It is what it is. Whatever I need to do to get on the field I will do to perfection. So if they decide to move me back to OLB, best to believe I’m laying down the law.

AF: Has it been talked about at all whether you will be redshirted freshman year or if you will contend for immediate playing time?

NL: I’m really not sure if I will be redshirted but I highly doubt it. I think this really depends on if I learn the game quick enough.

AF: What did you do over the summer to work on your game leading into the season? Did you attend many team or individual camps?

NL: I have never attended any football camps except Maryland during my sophomore year. I think attending camps isn’t necessary. My whole offseason work out consisted of 4 workouts a day. My whole attitude was to be the best on the field no matter what. In the summer I worked out 6:30-8:30 every morning with my personal trainer Andre. Then worked out again at 12:00, ate lunch, and took a nap. Then had team lifting at 5:30-6:30, worked out on the field, then came home and did my daily routine of a thousand push-ups.

AF: What do you believe your biggest strengths are?

NL: My biggest strengths are probably my heart and speed. I never quit even when my team quits on me. I play for respect and the love of the game. I am faster then most of the people on the field and I have competitive speed.

AF: What do you feel you still need to work on as a player to excel at the Division I level?

NL: I feel as though I can work on everything to help me excel on the collegiate level. If there is an area to become better in, then there is always room for improvement.

AF: Do you plan on going to your remaining official visits before National Signing Day?

NL: I only plan on going to my official visit with Maryland.

AF: You started playing football your freshman year at Bishop McNamara. When you first tried out did you ever even think football would open the doors that they have for you today?

NL: It’s kind of crazy you ask me that because when I look back I still can’t believe this happened to me. I never even played football until high school. I feel as though I’m living a dream. Road to success!

AF: Before I go, how do you think the Iowa Hawkeyes will do next season with you on their team?

NL: They will do the same thing they do every year! Win!

Going to prestigious school like Iowa with great coaching and great competition in practice and in conference as well as having great academics will help Nico continue on his path to becoming a well rounded and successful individual. All of us at MVP Sports Talk want to wish Nico luck as he continues his football career in the spotlight at a top ten university.

-AF

2010 MLB Free Agent Predictions

Cliff Lee- New York Yankees. They missed trading for him over the summer but they won't miss him again, their wallets will make sure of that.

Carl Crawford- Boston Red Sox. With the Rays looking to shave 35 million in salaries this off- season there is no way that Crawford will be back. Sadly for them he will stay in the division bolstering a strong Sox team.

Jayson Werth- Los Angeles Angels. the consolation prize after the team loses out on Carl Crawford.

Brandon Webb- Washington Nationals. He needs a new start and they want to show they are free agent contenders.

Adam Dunn- Washington Nationals. He wants a four year deal and when he doesn't get it he will come back to the Nats, the same reason he was here in the first place. He also likes the area.

-A

NFL's Crackdown on Helmet to Helmet hits

Honestly, I think the NFL all of a sudden handing out staggering fine amounts for unflagged hits is just ridiculous. If you hand out a hefty fine for a blatant and illegal helmet to helmet hits like the pair dished out by Patriots safety Brandon Meriweather onto defenseless Ravens Tight End Todd Heap, resulting in a major concussion. In that case where he was penalized for the tackle(s) I agree with the huge 50,000 dollar fine that he received. I even say suspend him. Just don't touch a player for a legal hit.

Two players fined for such tackles last weekend were Steelers linebacker and former defensive player of the year James Harrison and Atlanta Falcons Cornerback Dunta Robinson. Harrison was fined 75,000 for two incidents where he launched his body at the unsuspecting Browns players making a crushing helmet to helmet blow. In neither case were the hits illegal nor was the laundry thrown because they were both on runners, making them legit hits. If the rulebook says you're allowed to do a certain type of tackle you can't fine a player for doing it.

-A

United Star Rooney wants out

Manchester United Forward Wayne Rooney, one of the most recognizable faces in all of the soccer world wants to leave Manchester United, his team since 2004. After allegations of an affair surfaced about the English National Rooney's play just hadn't been the same as it usually was. As he was jeered by away fans and United supporters alike Rooney's play has faltered this season. He has played in only five of his team's first eight Premier League games and only scored one goal after tallying 34 last season.

This got even worse as Rooney has missed the last few games with "ankle problems" according to manager Alex Ferguson. Rooney has denied that he has had any problems with his ankles and says he just wants to play. Ferguson said that he is prepared to have Rooney comeback to the club when his contract expires in 2012 but is more than prepared to transfer his third star forward in the past two years. Teams like FC Chelsea and Manchester City seem to be the top clubs in contention for Rooney, but if he makes the transfer list you can expect to see a lot more interest surrounding this great player with a bit of a temper.

-A

The Benefits of Sports

Most people have played at least one type of, and probably many sports sometime in their life. Organized or pickup, playing these games have probably given them the chance to meet new people, and provided them with new friends and great memories. Participating in sports also helps feed some people’s competitive spirit, increase their talents, gives them a chance to spend time with friends and it presents an opportunity to get out excess energy that has stored up during the school day. For those that don’t participate in athletics, sports still have a lot to offer for them through entertainment. For some, like trainers, coaches and sports analysts, their job relies on professional and college athletic events. Whether it’s running around for fun, honing specific skills, chasing success, entertainment, or even bolstering the economy, sports are a very beneficial part of a life in America.

Sports are first and foremost a game. Games, and therefore sports are meant to allow people to have fun. Also there are many different types of sports, so even if you don’t like one type, there will always be something else for you. They allow you to enjoy your self with others that you like to be around. As a team progresses through a season they become more than a team. They become a family. This makes being out on the playing field even better because you always have more fun when you are with people you like. Individual sports also provide great fun even if you don’t have that family out there with you. They give you the thrill of competing in that one on one environment, or even against yourself if it is a timed sport. Even when you are on the field/ court alone, you always know you have someone there for you watching and that makes it all the more fun.

Athletics also give you a chance to improve skills you can use both in the sport you play, and in life. Along with teaching you things like balance, sports such as soccer, basketball, and football teach you teamwork, one of life’s most important skills. They also teach you to trust your teammate, which in life leads you to trust others around you. What would a football team be if the Quarterback didn’t trust his line to block for him? What would a group project be like if you didn’t trust your partners to do their part of the assignment? In both circumstances it would just be a total mess, and that’s why the lessons we learn in athletics are important on the field and off.

Sports are also beneficial because they give people a reason to work hard at something. Maybe you come from a poor neighborhood with almost no way out. Maybe you struggle through school and no college will accept you. There is an answer for this. Sports. Athletics and Athletic Scholarships to colleges and private high schools offer kids and teens a chance at a good education and a better life. They also give people a chance to make a name for themselves. Another thing sports gives goes hand in hand with the chance at success. It provides the opportunity at financial stability for life. The best athletes today are raking in well over five million dollars from their contracts and you can add a few million in endorsements to that. What they make in a year, many people would love to make in their life. Sports can lead to huge success, what do people have to lose?

In our world where there must be something going on every second of our lives sports offers great entertainment value. First of all it gives people something to debate and talk about. What team is better? Who will win the Super Bowl? Those are questions that can be heard over and over at any point during the year. Sports are one of the biggest markets in the world, and us Americans embrace it. Families and friends get together for cookouts or to tailgate at the stadium or at home before the big college or pro football game that they will all go in to see. Some of the most watched cable television channels are Sports Channels ESPN and ESPN2. Along with all of that, the most watched show/ event on television is the Super Bowl. This just shows how much Americans love their sports.

The sports industry employs many Americans, and the money generated for the private sector and the government alike is one of its primary benefits. The support that sports gives to the economy goes well beyond the amount of jobs it supplies though. At stadiums you may have noticed, they charge a 10% stadium tax on all food and merchandising items. With the amount of these items that teams sell, this raises a whole lot of money for the local and federal government. Having a sports team in the area also helps local businesses such as hotels, restaurants, and bars. People often will fly into a town to watch their favorite sports team. During and after one of these events the bars and restaurants around he stadium will get a huge boost to the amount of customers that they get. Sports teams are an essential part of the American economy because of this huge boost that they provide to the finances of the government and private businesses.

The sports world has the world and country we live in a hold. It is one of the ways we can relieve our stress and ourselves of leftover energy while having fun and improving our physical condition. It teaches us many life lessons and helps us strive for success. It provides many with entertainment and that big game on the weekend provides an escape from the hassle of daily life. And the positive economical impact that the sports market gives to the country is a huge part of why even in a recession we are still staying afloat. Because of all the benefits it gives us, sports are an essential part of life in America.

-A

MLB Races tight til the end

Two serious MLB Divisional races went right down to the wire, both ending on the regular seasons final day. Today both the Tampa Bay Rays and the San Fransisco Giants clinched the AL East Division and the NL West Division respectively. In a 3-2 12 inning victory over the Kansas City Royal Tampa Bay held of a New York Yankees team that just failed to finish strong (3-7 in last 10), therefore giving the Rays home field advantage up until the World Series if they make it there. There is still hope for Yankees fans, because although they failed to win the division, they still got a wild card spot and have a great chance to make noise in the postseason.

Another Exciting Division clinching game happened today in the Bay Area during which a charging Giants shoved a Padres team that was shrinking under pressure out of its way in a 4-0 win. The victory not only Puts the Giants in and keeps the Padres out of the playoffs, it also puts retiring Braves manager and surefire hall of famer Bobby Cox into the final month of the season to tough it out one more time. This baseball season was exciting all around, and hopefully the postseason will be just as good.

-A

Ichiro Suzuki: New 200 hits record

Right Fielder Ichiro Suzuki of the Seattle Mariners became the first player in MLB history with 10 consecutive seasons of 200 hits or more shattering the record he shared with baseball immortal Ty Cobb by smashing a liner up the middle in a game against the Toronto Blue Jays earlier today. Ichiro, a 10 year Major League vet and 6 time batting broke the record in the fifth inning of the game with Shawn Hill on the mound, scorching the pitch to dead center for an easy single. This hit also ties him with Pete Rose for the most total seasons with 200 or more hits.

A full article on Ichiro will come later, but for now we will celebrate this great accomplishment.

-A

Week One Injuries Tackle an 18 Game Season

Over the past few years there has been a push to turn the last couple of each NFL Team's preseason games into part of the regular season. One argument in favor of the addition is that players don't need the time anymore . The off-season programs that the players participate in, and the team OTA's and training camp give them plenty of time to stay in shape and learn a playbook. Why not make more serious competition? Also fans are tired of having to pay regular season prices for games that do not count. It just doesn't have that same energy or experience as when players that you have actually heard of are on the field for more than a few plays.

Over the same period of time there has been some minor opposition to the conversion of those final preseason games. What if a coach needs those contests to devise their game plans? Have they had time to set depth charts? Have all necessary cuts been made? All of those questions have floated around but have had minimal impact on the support of the topic. I agree that the NFL should change to an 18 game season, or at least I did until now.

My whole view on the issue turned completely around after witnessing what happened during the first week of the season. During the course of the games, multiple players went down with injuries that can affect their careers, and even their lives after football. From suffering concussions that can keep them out 1-2 weeks (Eagles QB Kevin Kolb) to a second straight season with an ACL Tear (Jets DT Kris Jenkins) each and every injury that happens weekly in the NFL can devastate one's life.

Concussions, even minor ones have been a serious concern to the NFLPA lately. Former players have popped up left and right with diagnosed brain damage because of the violent head jarring, injury causing hits that they fell victim to on a weekly basis during their playing careers. ACL tears are one of the most serious injuries in all of sports. In it, a ligament behind your knee is ripped and requires extensive surgery plus an 8-10 month recovery. This huge recovery time causes the player not just to suffer the huge pain of the injury, but also causes them to miss the whole rest of their season. Although after an ACL injury, players are usually fine, there are quite a few former players with serious trouble walking as result of these injuries.

If an 18 game season is put in place it will involve even more serious injuries because of the high level of competition that will be going on for an extra two weeks. This shows that an 18 game season is bad for the NFL because I would rather see 2 preseason games than see my favorite player miss the whole season with an injury suffered that could have been avoided without the change.

-A

Clinton Portis: Sometimes you got to shut your mouth

In the wake of the New York Jets being investigated for sexual harassment against female reporter Ines Sainz, Clinton Portis, opinionated running back for the Washington Redskins made some controversial comments while on "The Fan" radio. His comments included:

"You know man, I think you put women reporters in the locker room in positions to see guys walking around naked, and you sit in the locker room with 53 guys, and all of the sudden you see a nice woman in the locker room, I think men are gonna tend to turn and look and want to say something to that woman." and "And I mean, you put a woman and you give her a choice of 53 athletes, somebody got to be appealing to her. You know, somebody got to spark her interest, or she's gonna want somebody. I don't know what kind of woman won't, if you get to go and look at 53 men's packages. And you're just sitting here, saying 'Oh, none of this is attractive to me.' I know you're doing a job, but at the same time, the same way I'm gonna cut my eye if I see somebody worth talking to, I'm sure they do the same thing."

The NFL took swift action by sending an email stating their disappointment in Portis's comments and have led any disciplinary action up to the Washington Redskins. Honestly, I believe Clinton should have just kept his mouth closed here. Already he is an aging running back that has declining skills, but now he goes out and says something demeaning about women? That's just not alright. If I was the Redskins, He would have issued a public apology already, and he would possibly be suspended depending on how sincere he was.

Clinton, just play football and keep your unnecessary discriminatory comments to yourself.

-A

USA Wins FIBA World Championship behind Durant

For the first time in Coach K's three tries, a team of young stars not named LeBron and Kobe led the USA National Basketball Team to a gold medal in the FIBA World Basketball Championships. This was the first time the US has claimed the gold in the Worlds since 1994. This group was called the B-Team because of the lack of big personalities and superstars but they didn't let that through. They hung together strong throughout the whole tournament to help seal the deal that the US is the best hoops country.

Team USA was led by Oklahoma City Thunder Forward Kevin Durant with 28 points. He also had five rebounds and two blocks. The Laker's Lamar Odom was also a dominating force in the game getting a double- double , 15 points and 11 boards. The team now returns back home to get the players ready to the season the fans actually care about. The NBA.

-A

Heisman Winner Ingram Doubtful for Second game

Last season's Heisman Trophy Winner as NCAA Football's best player Mark Ingram of the Alabama Crimson Tide is doubtful for his team's game against Penn State, another powerhouse football program. Ingram, who had 17 Touchdowns for the National Champions last season also missed this year's first game, a contest against San Jose State which Alabama won easily with his replacement Eddie Lacy running away with 111 yards and 2 TDs.

the Crimson Tide's next test won't be as easy without their star. They will be playing a tough Penn State team, and they might be in for a rough time without Ingram. If Lacy plays up to his potential again though, I believe the Tide will continue to roll

-A

Jeremiah Masoli, was he holding Oregon back?

Yesterday Ole Miss and former Oregon quarterback Jeremiah Masoli might have shown the sports world that he was holding back the University of Oregon Ducks football team. While his former team in Oregon rolled over the New Mexico Lobos 72-0, Masoli and the Rebels put up a weak performance against FCS Jacksonville State that ended up in disappointment during a 49-48 double overtime loss.

Before enrolling at Mississippi Masoli, now a 5th year senior, had quarterbacked Oregon to a Pac- 10 championship and Rose Bowl appearance last season where they were smothered by a ready Ohio State team. Masoli, then one of the Heisman Trophy favorites for the 2010 season was suspended for the year when he was convicted of breaking into an Frat House and stealing laptops as well as other items. Even after that he didn't seem to learn his lesson when he was caught speeding and possessing marijuana and Masoli was dismissed from the team. Because he had graduated, Masoli used a little know rule to get around having to sit out a year after a transfer season and was practicing with the Rebels almost immediately. Then a couple days ago, the NCAA decided that Masoli's transfer wasn't in the spirit of the rule, but after appeal, NCAA decided that they couldn't punish him for a loophole he found, they allowed him to play once again this year.

The season was supposed to start with an easy win for Ole Miss, but after a disappointing performance by their new quarterback (7 completions, 109 yards, 1 Int) all of that opening game optimism was sapped. While the Rebels felt the pain of defeat the Ducks optimism for a repeat Pac- 10 title coming into the season has just been multiplied many times and we might have a new Heisman Trophy Candidate in sophomore running back Kenjon Barner who rushed for 147 yards and 4 Tds, had 60 yards through the air and another touchdown. While Masoli didn't impress in his opener against a cupcake team, his replacement quarterbacks combined for 351 passing yards and 2 touchdowns. This proves that Masoli, no matter how well he can play a spread, might have held the Ducks from their full potential last season and cost them a Rose Bowl Championsip.

-A

Jaime Garcia for Rookie of the Year

While all the hype was on the Washington Nationals' Stephen Strasburg, a future recipient of Tommy John Surgery, St. Louis Cardinals rookie pitcher Jaime Garcia has taken Major League Baseball by storm.  Garcia (born July 8, 1986) was originally drafted by the Baltimore Orioles in the 30th round of the 2004 first year player draft, but after not signing he re- entered the draft the following year.  In 2005 the St. Louis Cardinals drafted Jaime in the 22nd round under the advisory of new scout Joe Almaraz, who had moved to them after the O's.

He started to pitch in the Cardinals Minor League system in 2006 at Class A Quad Cities.  With Quad Jaime went  5-4 with a 2.90 ERA before he was called up to High A Palm Beach where he duplicated his previous record but his ERA raised about a whole point but was still a solid 3.84.  He followed that with an up and down Year at Double A (AA) Springfield going 5-9 but he did have a respectable ERA of 3.75.  The following year his slow progression continued, as he went a combined 7-6 with a 3.65 ERA and earned a cup of coffee in the majors but his real Minor League breakout seemed to come in 2009 where in three different leagues and nine games he went 2-2 with a 2.87 ERA before he had season ending surgery.


This season, Garcia's first full one in the Majors Jaime has gone 12-6, a solid amount of wins for any starter, let alone a rookie that still has a month left in their season.  So far His incredible 2.33 ERA ranks sixth in the National League and he holds opposing batters to a .237 Batting Average against.  One cause for concern is his 58 walks, which compared to his 118 strikeouts is only a measly 2.03 K/BB which needs to improve for him to continue to dominate on the top level.


Overall, I think if Garcia continues to work hard and develop his pitches he can continue to be a a dominant pitcher for the St. Louis Cardinals now and well into the future.  I also see him winning a few Cy Young awards over the course of his career, but I can guarantee you, no matter the vote, Jaime Garcia deserves the National League Rookie of the Year Award more than everything.


-A

Manny Ramirez to Join Chicago Today

Left Fielder Manny Ramirez formerly of the Los Angeles Dodgers is set to join the Chicago White Sox today in time for their game against the Cleveland Indians, one of the worst teams in baseball. Manny though, is not expected to be in the starting lineup because of fatigue from the flight. This is a great opportunity for the aging Ramirez because he will be playing the Designated Hitter position for a team that is in the hunt for a playoff spot. Being a DH will take some pressure off of him and his legs, hopefully helping him stay away from the Disabled List to which he has been a frequent visitor this season.

The White Sox, although taking on an amazing hitter in the heat of a divisional battle have taken on an incredible financial burden. Over the remainder of the season Ramirez is expected to cost over 3.8 million dollars. So far Manny has had an off year hitting only eight home runs with 40 RBI but when he has been healthy, he hitting a deadly .311. In Chicago Manny will probably have to cut his trademark dreadlocks though, because although they want Manny to be Manny, both manager Ozzie Guillen and the Sox organization both want him to look professional while doing this. Actions like this could hurt the support from Manny fans, but if they see him playing in the post season this year all would be forgiven.

I can't wait to see Manny back out on the field.

-A

Stephen Strasburg to have Tommy John Surgery

Washington Nationals rookie phenom Stephen Strasburg is likely to undergo Tommy John Surgery to replace an elbow ligament.  After an MRI session on Thursday, a rumor that Strasburg had torn a ligament in his elbow was confirmed, probably the worst news possible for the re energized Nats who were depending on Strasburg to lead them along their rebuilding path.  Strasburg's development, and most likely that path, are going to be delayed another year, pretty much wasting the 2012 for if nothing else, to develop Bryce Harper in the minors and get other pitching prospects ready for a true run. 


Strasburg's injury also greatly hurts the chance that the Nationals will resign slugging first baseman Adam Dunn, who while still powerful, whiffs a lot and is getting up there in years.  The Nats figure, "why should they give an aging slugger a multi- year multimillion dollar contract when they wont even be in contention for a few years?"  And to be honest, I agree with them.  Why would you use money you could use to build your future on a "NOW" type off player, don't get me wrong, I love Adam Dunn and think he is a great player, I just do not see him playing a role in the future of this ball club.


One bright spot for the Nationals on the Day of Strasburg's MRI was that pitcher Jordan Zimmerman made his first start of the season after being out a year for undergoing the same surgery.  It gives the Nats a glimpse of hope and shows them its not a fatal blow to them, its just a minor setback.

-A

Puljols, 3rd youngest to 400

St. Louis Cardinals First Baseman Albert Pujols slammed his 400th career home run on Thursday night against the Washington Nationals.  Leading off the fourth inning at Nationals Park with the home team ahead 3-1, Pujols smashed a pitch from Jordan Zimmerman, who was making his 2010 MLB debut after needing to have Tommy John surgery last year.  With this homer, his 34th of the year Albert became the third youngest player in Major League history to reach that significant milestone and the only player to do so within a decade of their debut.  Sadly for Pujols his great day, 2-4, 3 IBB was slightly ruined because after going into the bottom of the ninth with a 10-8 lead the Cards blew it and ended up losing in 13 11-10.


We here at MVP Sports would like to congratulate Mr. Pujols on this historic and memorable achievement and wish him luck in the future.


-A

Nationals Morgan Suspended 7 Games

Washington Nationals Center fielder Nyjer Moran was fined an undisclosed amount and he was suspended for seven games by Major League Baseball for intentionally pelting a fan in the stands with a baseball. The incident occurred during the ninth inning of a Nationals win on Saturday in Philadelphia, a city widely known for having annoying and profane fans.

When asked about it Nyjer said he could not disclose details but he did say that he was not expecting a suspension for the incident. He has appealed the suspension so while Major League Baseball reviews it Morgan will be allowed to play.

-A

Will we see Strasburg again this year???????

Have we seen the last of Washington Nationals rookie phenom Stephen Strasburg for the season? We might have, yesterday night he was seen walking off the mound in Philadelphia wincing in pain. When manager Jim Riggleman and a team trainer rushed towards Strasburg Nationals fan's eyes were glued to the TV. As he was walked off the field to a chorus of boos in Philly Nats and Strasburg fans alike wondered if we will see the young rookie again this season. I firmly believe that the next time we see Strasburg throw a ball in a Major League game will be in the Spring of 2011.

If this game was his last for the season, he can surely be proud of the year he has had. When he is healthy he has been lights out going 5-3 with a 2.91 ERA, a WHIP of 1.07, and he has help opposing batters to a .221 average. Also if he has thrown his last pitches he would rank second among rookie years behind only another flamethrower, Kerry Wood with a 12.18 strikeouts per 9 innings.

As a baseball fan, I say leave Strasburg in we want to see him play. As a Cardinals fan I say put on the 15 day DL and don’t make us face him. But as a person who wants to see the Nats rebuild I don’t want him further straining his forearm or getting inflammation in shoulder again. I don’t expect to see Stephen Strasburg for the rest of the year, and I actually don’t mind it.

-A

Serena Williams Out of US Open

Serena Williams one of the great American Women Tennis Players has withdrawn from the US open citing that she is still recovering from foot surgery she underwent after she stepped on a piece of glass at a restaurant.  This injury is a big blow to Serena as she was looking forward to redeeming herself after a she threw a massive on court tantrum after a foot fault call by a line judge at last year's Open.  She expressed her feelings in this statement, "It is with much frustration and deep sadness that I am having to pull out of the U.S. Open."  She decided it would be best for her to pull out after being advised by her doctors to sit out the tournament to let her foot recover.  She stated that missing the US Open was "one of the most devastating moments of my career."

This news doesn't only affect Serena, the active leader in singles Grand Slam Championships among women and a three time winner at Flushing Meadows, It also affects her sister and doubles partner Venus.   Venus hasn't competed on tour since Wimbledon because of an injured knee and after this blow she will compete in the singles category.  Tennis Superstars Andy Roddick and Rodger Federer also commented on the loss of Serena and how it will affect the tournament.  Roddick stated that it was a "fairly big-sized hit for the tournament," and "because there's no doubt about who [Serena] the top draw card is in New York City as far as the women's side of the draw."  Federer than said "[Serena's missing it has] got to be disappointing for her and for the tournament. I'm sure it hurts, especially with her being an American."

We here at MVP Sports Talk wish Serena luck with her recovery and can't wait to see her back on the court.


-A

College Football Preview

Here's How I think the conferences in college football will pan out.

ACC

Atlantic

Florida State
Clemson
N.C. State
Boston College
Maryland
Wake Forest

Coastal

Virginia Tech
North Carolina
Miami
Georgia Tech
Virginia
Duke

Big East
Pitt
Rutgers
UConn
Cincinnati
West Virginia
South Florida
Syracuse
Louisville

Big Ten
Iowa
Ohio State
Penn State
Wisconsin
Northwestern
Michigan
Michigan State
Indiana
Purdue
Illinois
Minnesota

Big 12

North
Nebraska
Mizzou
Kansas
Colorado
Kansas State
Iowa State

South
Texas
Oklahoma
Texas Tech
Texas A&M
Oklahoma State
Baylor

Pac- 10
Oregon
USC
Oregon State
Stanford
Arizona
Washington
Cal
UCLA
Arizona State
Washington State

SEC

East
Florida
Georgia
South Carolina
Kentucky
Tennessee
Vandy

West
Alabama
LSU
Arkansas
Auburn
Ole Miss
Miss State

Other Notables
Boise State
TCU
Utah
Middle Tennessee

BCS Champion
Alabama

Heisman Trophy
Mark Ingram (Alabama)

Davey O'Brian
John Brantley (Florida)

Feel Free to comment and tell me what you think


-A

Brett Favre to Return to Vikings for 20th season in NFL

Brett Favre, Quarterback for the Minnesota Vikings has announced that he will return to the NFL for a twentieth season. Favre, who turns 41 in October is coming off of off season ankle surgery and was heavily contemplating retirement, but since his ankle is holding up he feels he owes the Vikings another season. A season he says will be his last. That's when I cracked up. Everyone knows that Brett won't retire until he decides his ego has been fed enough, so if he doesn't win a Superbowl I am sure we will see this exact same thing next season.


Favre led the Vikings to the NFC Championship game last season but nobody should expect the same because he had one of the best years of his career. He passed for over 4200 yards and 33 touchdowns. He also had a career low 7 interceptions and shattered his own mark for quarterback rating with an amazing 107.2. Vikings fans have very high expectations coming into this season for both the team and Favre but there is no reason to expect a season anything like last year. Favre is an old man first and foremost, let alone an old man that is coming off of major ankle surgery. Also last season he had major surgery before training camp. So what the Vikings have is a beat up quarterback who thinks he has something left in the tank.


All I have to say that expect a big disappointment Vikings Fans.


-A

Check out DIY Sports Baseball.  A great fast Growing MMO RPG Game.

Bobby Thomson, Dead at 86

Bobby Thomson, made famous by his "Shot heard 'round the world," a walk off Homer that Thomson hit off of Brooklyn Dodgers (now the Los Angeles Dodgers) pitcher Ralph Branca to win the 1951 National League Pennant, died yesterday at 86. The Blast, which took place on October 3, 1951 won the game 5-4 for his New York Giants and took the playoff series 2-1 from the Dodgers after the Giants had a four run bottom of the ninth and that moment is one of the most famous in baseball history.

During his career, which spanned fourteen years from 1946- 1960 Thomson was regarded as a very good player. He was a three time all- star and often put up high triples numbers. His best season came 1949 when he played in 156 games batting .309 with 24 homers and 109 RBI.

He will be remembered as a very good player and for giving baseball one of its greatest moments. He will surely be missed.

-A

Check out DIY Sports Baseball.  A great fast Growing MMO RPG Game.
 

Redskins Fans Show New Life

The Washington Redskins have a long and victorious past that is overshadowed by several bad seasons in a row. Have Redskins fans lost hope? The answer is no. While spending the day at Redskins training camp this past weekend, I learned what it meant to be a true football fan. Although the Skins ended 4-12 last season, there was upwards of 200 people at training camp to watch their beloved Redskins.

As the players took the field at 8:30 in the morning, fans lined the walkway and did nothing but cheer. I heard “welcome to Washington” from fans as Donovan McNabb took the field and “Cooooooooooley” echoed throughout Ashburn as Chris Cooley strapped up for practice, but no other player was welcomed as much as Albert Hanseworth. Fans started yelling congratulatory remarks to him since he had recently passed his conditioning test.

As head coach Mike Shanahan took the field, a long and loud round of applause arose from spectators because we all knew that he was the one man that was going to take our beloved Redskins back to the top where they belong.

- Michael Sensenig (Guest Writer)

Check out DIY Sports Baseball.  A great fast Growing MMO RPG Game.
 

NFC East Preseason Predictions

The Dallas Cowboys are the obvious favorites in the NFC East and should win the division with ease. The ‘Boys offense promises to one of the most explosive in the league with stars such as Quarterback Tony Romo, Half Back Marion Barber, and Tight End Jason Witten, and Wide Receiver Miles Austin, who broke out last year with 1,320 receiving yards. The Cowboys also have a very strong Defense led by sack master DeMarcus Ware and shutdown corners Mike Jenkins and Terrance Newman.

The Washington Redskins have improved a lot this offseason through trades and the draft. After firing Jim Zorn, now the Baltimore Ravens Quarterbacks Coach, they inked the proven Mike Shanahan as their new Head Coach and Jim Haslett, who coached the UFL’s Florida Tuskers to a 6-0 season and a championship game appearance, is their new defensive coordinator. The ‘Skins also drastically improved their offensive line drafting Tackle Trent Williams out of Oklahoma with the 4th overall pick in the draft and trading for All- Pro Tackle Jammal Brown. Now that former All- Pro Defensive Tackle Albert Haynseworth has passed his conditioning and is trying to learn the new 3-4 D the Redskins can focus on winning. Although they probably won’t compete for the Division Title this season, they could contend for a wild card spot.

The biggest splash that the Philadelphia Eagles made this season was trading star quarterback Donovan McNabb in the Division to the Washington Redskins. They also released running back Brian Westbrook cutting ties with what were their two best known players. They have a good, young receiving corps lead by DeSean Jackson. Quarterback Kevin Kolb, who takes over for McNabb has shown lots of potential but if he slips up Michael Vick is waiting for his chance to snap up that job. The Eagles are a good team in a good division with a shot at a playoff spot.

Someone has to be predicted last in this very tough division and I’m going to go with the New York Giants. As always, Quarterback Eli Manning will be good and he has very good receivers in Steve Smith, Mario Manningham, and Hakeem Nicks. I wouldn’t be surprised to see Manning throw for over 4,000 yards again and even improve on his 27 Touchdown Passes. The Giants also have a strong ground game led by running back Brandon Jacobs who hits as hard as any linebacker in the league. As any team in this division, the Giants have a shot at the playoffs and look for their motors to be running all season long.

-A

Tiger Woods at his worst ever

PGA Tour Golfer and A list celebrity Tiger Woods completed his worst 72 hole tournament finish of all time on Sunday at Bridgestone Invitational, a tourney that he has usually dominated. Woods finished on Sunday with a 77 seven over putting him at +18 for the tournament and tied for 78th in a field of 80. It also became the first time since the PGA Championship in 2003 that he has been above par each of the four rounds and it is only the fourth time in his career tha this has happen. In the misdst of the scandal that unraveled his personal life last fall and is still haunting today Tiger said that he wasn't suprised with his poor play because of all the distractions, and I don't think everyone is.


Hopefully Mr. Woods will get back on track though because for so many years he was the only reason a lot of Americans cared about golf and if focused on the round at hand he can dominate the competition.


-A

Shaq to join Celtics

18 Year NBA Veteran Center Shaquille O'Neal who played last season with the Cleveland Cavs is very close to joining the Boston Celtics on a veteran's minimum 1.35 million dollar deal.  Although Shaq is not as dominant as he was during his younger years he is still a good center that can muscle with big men on other contending teams like Dwight  Howard of the Magic and Andrew Bynum of the Lakers.  Last season while playing with LeBron, who bolted for Miami at seasons end, O'Neal averaged career lows in points and rebounds (12.0 ppg and 6.7 rpg respectively), but I believe this was a very good signing for the C's because this will really help bolster a frontcourt that recieved a huge blow with the loss of Kendric Perkins for the first few months of the season.  Hopefully Mr. O'Neal can be productive for Boston this season and show he still has it.


-A

Brett Favre to Retire... Again????

According to multiple reports, 19 year NFL veteran quarterback Brett Favre is set to retire from the NFL for the third time.  Favre is argueably the greatest Quarterback in the history of the NFL and is definatly the the best player in the history of the Green Bay Packers.  Although he is no longer the posterboy for the franchise and many Packer's Fans still feel betrayal over his backing out of retirement to join the rival Minnesota Vikings, we will all have a small place in our hearts for what he did to turn around the team when he took over the reins in 1992. 


Favre every significant career passing record and no one is even close to him in any of the categories.  He retires with 69,329 passing yards, 6,083 completions, and 497 career touchdown passes.  His longevity in the game and his gunslinger mentality has done one bad thing for him, he holds the NFL record for career interceptions with 317.  He won a Superbowl with the Green Bay Packers in 1997 but failed to win another, but came close many times including the next season where th Pack lost to the Broncos in the Big Game.  What is most suprising about this retirement is that Favre is coming off of his best player in years with 33 TD passes, over 4200 passing yards, and a career low 7 picks and this loss hurts the Viking's playoff hopes consideribly.  This comes as ahuge shock to everyone that follows the NFL but lets all just hope the third time's the charm and he finally hangs it up for good.


-A

Memphis set to join Big East

The University of Memphis, the Mens Basketball Powerhouse that has produced NBA Stars such as Derrek Rose and Tyreke Evans is set to dash from Conference USA to join th Big East for tougher competition and more exposure.  The announcement could come as soon as Tuesday.

Jets Revis Misses first day of camp

The Contract Dispute between All- Pro Corner Darrelle Revis and the New York Jets the superstar to hold out of the first day of camp. After being told in the off-season by Coach Rex Ryan and GM Mike Tannenbaum that he was the best corner in the NFL Revis decided that he wanted to be the highest paid. After receiving a contract extension himself Tannenbaum stated that he had made two large offers that would have made Revis the "Jet for life" that he wanted to be. As it’s easy to tell, Revis rejected both, but rumor has been floating around that the contract would pay only 5.3 million this year and had no guaranteed money in it all. Although I am not a big fan of guaranteed contracts I do believe that he should be paid more than that [5.3 million] and defiantly more than the one million he is set to make under the rookie contract he signed four seasons ago.

On this case I agree with and I encourage him to continue to hold out until he gets part of the money pie. He is one of the best players, let alone defenders in the league and he should be compensated as such, not be one of the lowest played defensive backs on the Jet’s roster. So Darrelle, continue to hold out, get your money, or at least until after the Jets play Green Bay in week eight.


-A

Rookie Salaries in the NFL, How Ridiculous will they Get?

Just yesterday Sam Bradford, Rookie Quarterback for the St. Louis Rams and the number one overall pick in this past year's NFL Draft signed a 6 year 78 million dollar deal with a chance for it to be worth as much as 86 million. That’s way too much to be paying any player let alone a guy who missed his last college season with a shoulder injury and who also has never thrown a pass in the League. The worst part though isn't just the amount he is going to be paid over the short span but that 50 million of that is guaranteed. Sam Bradford now can have a career ending injury 2 games in and be set for life and what can the team do about it? Nothing! Look at WR Dez Bryant, the number 24 overall pick by the Dallas Cowboys. He signed a 5 year deal worth 11.8 million dollars, 8.3 mil of that guaranteed and now just a couple of days into camp he is out 4-6 weeks with an ankle injury.


I think everyone knows who the financial burden for these huge contracts fall on. The Fans of Course! What type of penny pinching owner would even think about digging into their own pickets to fuel a championship contender? Not any that I know. Ticket prices have increased at an extremely fast pace and player salaries have done the same. I don't know anybody that needs to be making 14 million a year. If I had their talent I actually wouldn't want that, so my team could go and spend the extra cap space to bring in players to make the team a championship caliber team. What needs to happen in the next CBA is a set salary for rookies at each draft spot.


In no way should an unproven QB such as Bradford or even last years number one pick, Matt Stafford ( 5 year, 72 mil 41.7 guaranteed) be making as much, or more in a lot of cases as some of the better signal callers in the NFL. Joe Flacco, QB for the Ravens took his team to the playoffs in both of his first two seasons while becoming one of the best in the game. His salary, 5 years 11.9 million dollars seems like nothing when you compare it to what these kids are going to make. You never see him complaining though because he is a class act and he knows that he is getting paid more than fairly to play a game.


The NFL and commish Goodell needs to come up with a set system for rookie pay days because before long we will see a 100 million dollar rookie turn into a bust and send a franchise into disaster status for years to come because of one bad investment.


-A

Major MLB Deals

Here is a quick summay of all the  major deals that have happened in Major League Baseball the past few weeks as teams rush to add players fro the playoff hunt.


July 9th


Texas Rangers Accuire Righties Cliff Lee and Mark Lowe from the Seattle Mariners for Righties Blake Beavan and Josh Lueke, Infielder Matt Lawson, and top first base Prspect Justin Smoak.


July 25th


Anaheim Angels Accuire RHP Dan Haren from the Arizona Diamondbacks for RHP Rafael Rodriguez, Lefties Joe Saunders and Patrick Corbin, and a player to be named.


July 29th


Texas Rangers Accuire 3B Jorge Cantu from the Florida Marlins for Righties Evan Reed and Omar Poveda.


Philadelphia Phillies Accuire Star Righty Roy Oswalt and cash for LHP J.A. Happ, OF Anthony Gose and SS Jonathan Villar.


Chicago White Sox Accuire RHP Edwin Jackson from the Arizona Diamondbacks for RHP Dan Hudson and LHP David Holmberg.