Finally, Spring Training is here, and I am deeming baseball talk on this website officially relevant. The White Sox utterly disappointed me the past few months. Once the 2008 season finished I, as well as many others, were under the impression that the Sox were going to have somewhere between $20-25 million to spend freely.
But Kenny Williams announced a cut-back in payroll, dashing hopes of Orlando Hudson, Adam Dunn and many more.
So going into the '09 campaign, Chicago has more question marks than ever before; below are ten of the biggest.
10. Is Quentin going to continue tear?
Q was going to be the AL MVP, no doubt about it. But after a frustrating plate appearance with about a month left in the season Quentin broke his hand slamming the bat against his thumb. But this isn't an ACL tear, this should not affect his career. Even without this injury however, will he post another .288/36hr/100rbi/96run season? Or will he be a flash in a pan and become just another average corner outfielder with below average defensive skills? He carried the Sox in May and June of last season, and without him, they're sitting right by Kansas City in the central standings. Can he do it again?
9. Will we see Viciedo playing at Comiskey?
As stated earlier, the Sox did not make a big splash this winter, but one guy they did sign was 19-year-old Cuban Dayan Viciedo. He came to the states overweight but it is rumored he dropped 20 lbs and Ozzie Guillen referred to him as a "former fat guy." Weight aside, Alexei Ramirez has reportedly been showing him the ropes, and if there is anybody to talk to about balancing ones figure, its Alexei. It sounds as if Josh Fields will start the season at the hot corner. The Sox could really use the production Fields gave them the second half of '07, but if not, Viciedo doesn't seem like that much of a "plan-b" in the grand scheme of things.
8. Can Ozzie withstand?
I have stated multiple times that I honestly feel like Ozzie is the best manager in baseball and the most entertaining personality in sports. But sometimes his personality is what has gotten him into trouble. And trouble begins when the team doesn't play good ball. The 2009 squad has its bright spots, but really this is the most iffy team Guillen has had to manage since arriving in 2004. Will a poor April and May be too much for Ozzie or Kenny Williams for that matter, to handle?
7. Who's at second?
The team had decided to go forward with Chris Getz, Brent Lillibridge and Jayson Nix all with opportunities to get some time (Getz first and foremost). But none of them have played consistently, if at all, in the bigs. Whoever it is will definitely have to earn it over the other two in the next month-plus, and the winner will most likely find themselves batting ninth in the order.
6. Can the bullpen hold up?
The bullpen last season was a tale of two halves. The first half they were lights-out, and other than Q, a large reason Chicago had the first half they did. The relievers went a combined 17-11, with a 2.96 era until the all-star break. The second half however was disastrous however, as the pen was 6-7 with a shoddy 5.60 era. While many of the problems post all-star break had a lot to do with injuries, the group has no new prominent middle-relief guys. Jenks will be back, and he feels he that by dropping velocity, he is actually able to strike guys out. Scott Linebrink and Ocavio Dotel will return as setup men, but age and health both come into play with these two guys. Matt Thornton is the only one we can truly expect to improve.
5. Will Konerko contribute?
You can't not like Paulie, but there comes a point where his ability has to be questioned. With an exception of his September, it was one we would rather forget. If he wasn't hurt, he was hitting .220. There have been so many question marks on the team it seems as if the organization felt first base was secure. Let's hope so because I don't particularly trust backup Wilson Betemet and long-term resolution Brandon Allen is still probably two years away from being able to perform at ML level.
4. What if Danks and/or Floyd regress?
Don't get me wrong, this is a huge "if," but at the same time, is it a guarantee that these guys are going to have seasons they did last season? They both played outstanding, better than anybody expected, especially Floyd. But the Sox need these guys to succeed, if not they're in trouble. This isn't Boston, they don't have 10 starters that they could get quality outings from. If Jon Lester regresses, there may not be a guy to totally replace his numbers, but there is a serviceable replacement. The White Sox however, do not have that luxury. They'll get burnt. Fans need to cross their fingers and hope the two studs post sub 3.70 era and win at least 15 games.
3. Can Alexei really play short?
Chris De Luca named him the best player in the city. While it may not be far from the truth, the best player in the city is not something I would associate with Alexei's name He only played 16 games at short last year and had limited action (15 assists and eight put-outs). He might have played some short in Cuba, but MLB is a different ball game. He does play solid defense and can quickly turn double-plays, but this is a different side of the infield. I hope this transition doesn't hurt the team, especially when we look at long-term scheme when realizing the Sox best prospect, Gordon Beckham's primary position is at short.
2. Who is going to play center?
This is a two-part question because in reality, whoever plays center is more than likely also going to lead off. Like second base, there are three competitors in Jerry Owens, Brian Anderson and Dewayne Wise. From the sounds of things, Owens seems to have the short track, which I am indifferent with. But a problem occurs if Jerry does win the job. He is a lefty, as is AJ Pierzynski, who will bat second, and likely #9 hitter Chris Getz is also a lefty. Three in a row, including the top two in the order will not work when facing lefty pitchers. The only likely resolution is to platoon in center with Brian Anderson getting the nod when southpaws on the bump. That or Alexei strikes another similarity with Soriano, and they put him at the top of the order. The former idea is more logical.
1. Will Bartolo stay healthy?
As stated earlier, this would not be a problem if the Sox had a few more starters who were MLB-ready. But as it stands, Colon is the #4, and any injury puts Chicago in a sticky situation. It appears, though early, that Clayton Richard will get the #5 spot while top pitching prospect Aaron Poreda will start the year in Triple-A. Odds are that he would jump into the rotation should Colon go down. This would bring the rotation to a similar-styled rotation to the 2007 team, when young stars John Danks and Gavin Floyd were thrown into the mix a earlier than many felt they should have. While it may have worked a few years ago, neither of these prospects were quite the projected talent to the duo in 2007. So they need production out of Colon, or trouble could come.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Monday, February 16, 2009
Top Ten reasons why the Bulls need Amare
It finally appears that John Paxson has had enough of the Bulls’ selfish, inconsistent and generally lethargic play. Reports are that he will step down from his GM role at the end of the season.
Well, Pax, I think it’s fair to say that the feeling is mutual. Bulls fans are sick of the job you’ve done, if the ovation you received at the ceremony honoring Johnny “Red” Kerr was any indication. The only way you can leave town with any dignity intact is to trade for Amare Stoudemire.
Please Pax, finally take a risk. It’s silly to wait for the 2010 free-agent class and hold out hope that Dwyane Wade or Chris Bosh will come to Chicago. Here are 10 reasons why the Bulls need Amare. 
10. He fills a major need
To be a contender, you need two big things; a great point guard, and a big man who can score. The Bulls already have Rose, but they don’t have that consistent inside scorer, something that Tyrus Thomas will never be. Although Amare isn’t your typical back-to-the-basket type guy, he’s going to get you 22-24 points every night.
9. He’d open things up for Gordon and Deng
With teams having to worry about Amare inside, Gordon and Deng end up benefiting big time. Opponents wouldn’t be so willing to throw double teams at Gordon. Deng would be sure to get a lot more open looks with a true inside presence. Gordon and Deng would become perfect complimentary players if the Bulls landed Amare.
8. He’s a finisher
What the Bulls lack right now is a go-to-guy down the stretch. Rose has tried to be that guy, but hasn’t come through. Gordon, due to his size, is forced to take very low-percentage shots with the game on the line, so he’s not the answer either. The Bulls could very easily be over .500 right now if they had a guy who could finish games. Stoudemire is that guy.
7. He’d make the Bulls fun to watch
Other than Rose’s creativity and the occasional dunks from Tyrus, this Bulls team registers about a 3 on an excitement scale from 1 to 10. Winning comes first in attracting fans, but entertainment is a close second. Stoudemire would provide the latter and then some. He would also provide the winning part (more on that later).
6. He isn’t really injury-prone
Yeah, Stoudemire might never be quite the same player he was his third year in the league, when he burst onto the scene and had his way with Tim Duncan in the Western Conference Finals. His microfracture knee surgery did cause him to lose some of his explosiveness. Still, over the last 2 ½ seasons, Amare has missed a total of four games. And he is only 26 years old, an age when most guys are entering the prime of their careers.
5. He’s way better than Tyrus
When I heard last week that a package of Tyrus, Thabo, Gooden, and a first-rounder would likely be enough for a 26-year old guy who last season averaged 25 points and nine rebounds, I thought, huh? If Steve Kerr is naïve enough to think Tyrus is going to develop into a superstar, well, that’s his problem. Even with Thomas’ recent five-game stretch (18 points, 11 rebounds) he will never be close to the player Amare is right now.
4. Stoudemire would welcome the challenge
He has worn out his welcome in Phoenix, and the Suns have made it clear that they want to shed Stoudemire’s salary and rebuild around the 35-year old Steve Nash. Amare needs a change of scenery, a place where he can start all over. Chicago is that place. Bulls fans would welcome him with open arms. Stoudemire could be the man on offense without having someone like Shaq clogging up the lane. He could prove to any doubters that he can still carry a team on his back.
3. He’d be great with Derrick Rose
How much fun would it be to watch those two play together? Remember, Amare helped Nash win consecutive MVP’s. And Nash helped turn Amare into one of the league’s brightest young stars in their first season together in Phoenix. Imagine how good Rose and Amare could make one another look? It would sure be something special to watch.
2. Talent wise, he is one of the NBA’s best
In terms of putting the ball in the basket, very few big men do it better than Stoudemire. He can score in a variety of ways, and is a matchup nightmare for opponents because of his versatility, length and athleticism. I’m not going to call him a superstar, because his defense is very suspect, but if I were doing a list of the league’s top 15 players, he would be on it.
1. He makes the Bulls a contender
One of the argument’s I’ve heard for not trading for Stoudemire is that even if the Bulls got him, he won’t turn them into a championship-caliber team. That’s true, because the Bulls wouldn’t suddenly move past the Celtics or Cavaliers with Amare, but they would certainly turn into one of the East’s five best teams. Right now, they are perhaps the conference’s 10th best team. Stoudemire would get the Bulls to the playoffs this season, and maybe even past the first round.
10. He fills a major needTo be a contender, you need two big things; a great point guard, and a big man who can score. The Bulls already have Rose, but they don’t have that consistent inside scorer, something that Tyrus Thomas will never be. Although Amare isn’t your typical back-to-the-basket type guy, he’s going to get you 22-24 points every night.
9. He’d open things up for Gordon and Deng
With teams having to worry about Amare inside, Gordon and Deng end up benefiting big time. Opponents wouldn’t be so willing to throw double teams at Gordon. Deng would be sure to get a lot more open looks with a true inside presence. Gordon and Deng would become perfect complimentary players if the Bulls landed Amare.8. He’s a finisher
What the Bulls lack right now is a go-to-guy down the stretch. Rose has tried to be that guy, but hasn’t come through. Gordon, due to his size, is forced to take very low-percentage shots with the game on the line, so he’s not the answer either. The Bulls could very easily be over .500 right now if they had a guy who could finish games. Stoudemire is that guy.
7. He’d make the Bulls fun to watch
Other than Rose’s creativity and the occasional dunks from Tyrus, this Bulls team registers about a 3 on an excitement scale from 1 to 10. Winning comes first in attracting fans, but entertainment is a close second. Stoudemire would provide the latter and then some. He would also provide the winning part (more on that later).6. He isn’t really injury-prone
Yeah, Stoudemire might never be quite the same player he was his third year in the league, when he burst onto the scene and had his way with Tim Duncan in the Western Conference Finals. His microfracture knee surgery did cause him to lose some of his explosiveness. Still, over the last 2 ½ seasons, Amare has missed a total of four games. And he is only 26 years old, an age when most guys are entering the prime of their careers.
5. He’s way better than Tyrus
When I heard last week that a package of Tyrus, Thabo, Gooden, and a first-rounder would likely be enough for a 26-year old guy who last season averaged 25 points and nine rebounds, I thought, huh? If Steve Kerr is naïve enough to think Tyrus is going to develop into a superstar, well, that’s his problem. Even with Thomas’ recent five-game stretch (18 points, 11 rebounds) he will never be close to the player Amare is right now.4. Stoudemire would welcome the challenge
He has worn out his welcome in Phoenix, and the Suns have made it clear that they want to shed Stoudemire’s salary and rebuild around the 35-year old Steve Nash. Amare needs a change of scenery, a place where he can start all over. Chicago is that place. Bulls fans would welcome him with open arms. Stoudemire could be the man on offense without having someone like Shaq clogging up the lane. He could prove to any doubters that he can still carry a team on his back.
3. He’d be great with Derrick Rose
How much fun would it be to watch those two play together? Remember, Amare helped Nash win consecutive MVP’s. And Nash helped turn Amare into one of the league’s brightest young stars in their first season together in Phoenix. Imagine how good Rose and Amare could make one another look? It would sure be something special to watch.2. Talent wise, he is one of the NBA’s best
In terms of putting the ball in the basket, very few big men do it better than Stoudemire. He can score in a variety of ways, and is a matchup nightmare for opponents because of his versatility, length and athleticism. I’m not going to call him a superstar, because his defense is very suspect, but if I were doing a list of the league’s top 15 players, he would be on it.
1. He makes the Bulls a contender
One of the argument’s I’ve heard for not trading for Stoudemire is that even if the Bulls got him, he won’t turn them into a championship-caliber team. That’s true, because the Bulls wouldn’t suddenly move past the Celtics or Cavaliers with Amare, but they would certainly turn into one of the East’s five best teams. Right now, they are perhaps the conference’s 10th best team. Stoudemire would get the Bulls to the playoffs this season, and maybe even past the first round. Friday, February 13, 2009
Top Ten worst NBA All-Stars
At its best, the NBA All-Star game defines why so many people love the game of basketball. The world’s premier athletes throw behind-the-back passes, drain long distance threes, put down reverse dunks and (occasionally) play aggressive defense for 48 minutes, usually with a smile on their face the entire time. At its worst…well, that’s what this list is all about. Here are ten players who have disgraced the NBA’s mid-season classic the past 15 years, ranking from best players to worst.
The only two-time All-Star on this list, Miller played for the East in 2003 and the West in ’04. In the two games, he combined to score 13 points. The former Bull has always been a solid player, but if somebody were to make a list of the top 30 players of this decade, does Miller even make the honorable mention?
While nobody would say Mason was a bad player for the Knicks, Hornets, Heat and Bucks over the course of his career, would anybody call the 2001 All-Star a good player? 11 points and eight rebounds a game of the course of a career is solid, but there’s a reason he played 20 minutes and didn’t score a single point in that ’01 ASG.
The Dean of the Basketball Flopping Institute, Divac was always a talented passer and reliable scorer. But despite playing in the 2001 game, he was not an All-Star caliber player. In fact, Divac’s most noteworthy accomplishments- other than his academic achievements listed previously- was being traded straight up for Kobe Bryant on draft day 1996 and being the subject of this rap.
Either 2000 was a real down year for Eastern Conference centers or David Stern wanted the All-Star game to highlight slow, physical big men, because other than that, there’s no reason Davis should have earned an invitation. Nothing against the man, but when you average eight points and eight rebounds a game for a career, you’re not really All-Star worthy. Actually, the only reason he’s on here instead of former Pacer teammate Antonio Davis (2001 ASG) is because I was afraid that if I insulted Antonio, he would find me in a crowd and try to beat me up.
Outside of being the number six scorer on the 2001 76ers team that lost in the NBA Finals, did Tyrone Hill do anything noteworthy his entire career? Apparently yes, since he made the 1995 All-Star team while on the Cavaliers. During that season, Hill averaged 14 points and 11 rebounds a game, which both registered as career highs for the 14-year vet.
Pretty much all of the players you see on this list, with the exception of Armstrong and Szczerbiak, are big men. It seems that when it comes time to filling out the All-Star roster, there is often a lack of quality power forwards and centers, and the NBA gets desperate. Sort of makes sense. Five-eleven point guard Dana Barros of the Boston Celtics on the 1995 Eastern Conference All-Star team? Now that makes no sense. Barros did have a solid year in ’95- 21 points and eight assists a game- a reason he won Most Improved Player following that season. But seeing his name listed next to fellow All-Star guards Penny Hardaway, Reggie Miller and Joe Dumars just is wrong.
10: Brad Miller
The only two-time All-Star on this list, Miller played for the East in 2003 and the West in ’04. In the two games, he combined to score 13 points. The former Bull has always been a solid player, but if somebody were to make a list of the top 30 players of this decade, does Miller even make the honorable mention?
9: Anthony Mason
While nobody would say Mason was a bad player for the Knicks, Hornets, Heat and Bucks over the course of his career, would anybody call the 2001 All-Star a good player? 11 points and eight rebounds a game of the course of a career is solid, but there’s a reason he played 20 minutes and didn’t score a single point in that ’01 ASG.
8: Wally Szczerbiak
Szczerbiak is proof that being just a jump-shooter can get you pretty far in the Association. An All-Star in 2002 playing for Minnesota, Wally has been on three teams since then, and is rumored to be dealt again because of his $12 million/year salary. Then again, his seven points a game coming off the bench for Cleveland has made a huge impact this year.7: BJ Armstrong
Bulls fans remember BJ as the baby-faced sharp shooter who came off the bench during the first three title runs. But an All-Star? And even more so, an All-Star starter? Yes, in 1994, Armstrong was voted to the starting five for the East squad. He finished that year averaging 15 points a game, a career high. Armstrong is currently the agent for another baby-faced Bulls point guard: Derrick Rose.6: Vlade Divac
The Dean of the Basketball Flopping Institute, Divac was always a talented passer and reliable scorer. But despite playing in the 2001 game, he was not an All-Star caliber player. In fact, Divac’s most noteworthy accomplishments- other than his academic achievements listed previously- was being traded straight up for Kobe Bryant on draft day 1996 and being the subject of this rap.
5: Dale Davis
Either 2000 was a real down year for Eastern Conference centers or David Stern wanted the All-Star game to highlight slow, physical big men, because other than that, there’s no reason Davis should have earned an invitation. Nothing against the man, but when you average eight points and eight rebounds a game for a career, you’re not really All-Star worthy. Actually, the only reason he’s on here instead of former Pacer teammate Antonio Davis (2001 ASG) is because I was afraid that if I insulted Antonio, he would find me in a crowd and try to beat me up.
4: Christian Laettner
Laettner sank the most famous shot in the history of college basketball and was the 12th man on the most dominant Olympic team of all time. Yet it’s still a shock to learn that once upon a time, as in 1997, that he was an NBA All-Star. That ’97 season was his best year as a pro, as he put up 18 points and eight boards a game for the Hawks. But like most former Duke stars, his pro career was mostly a disappointment.3: Tyrone Hill
Outside of being the number six scorer on the 2001 76ers team that lost in the NBA Finals, did Tyrone Hill do anything noteworthy his entire career? Apparently yes, since he made the 1995 All-Star team while on the Cavaliers. During that season, Hill averaged 14 points and 11 rebounds a game, which both registered as career highs for the 14-year vet.
2: Chris Gatling
How good was Gatling during his All-Star season of 1997? He started a total of one game all year. Still, despite being a bench player for the Mavericks, he averaged 19 points and eight rebounds a contest. A week after playing in the All-Star game for the West, Gatling was traded east to New Jersey. It wouldn’t be the last time he packed his bags though. By the time his 11 year career in the NBA was over, Gatling had suited up for eight teams.1: Dana Barros
Pretty much all of the players you see on this list, with the exception of Armstrong and Szczerbiak, are big men. It seems that when it comes time to filling out the All-Star roster, there is often a lack of quality power forwards and centers, and the NBA gets desperate. Sort of makes sense. Five-eleven point guard Dana Barros of the Boston Celtics on the 1995 Eastern Conference All-Star team? Now that makes no sense. Barros did have a solid year in ’95- 21 points and eight assists a game- a reason he won Most Improved Player following that season. But seeing his name listed next to fellow All-Star guards Penny Hardaway, Reggie Miller and Joe Dumars just is wrong.
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Top Ten Chicago Bulls First Half Stats
Tonight's matchup against the Miami Heat is the Bulls last game before the All-Star break. Again the Bulls will not be sending a representative to the All-Star Game and we're stuck in the hell that is mediocrity.
So what do we know about this team?
Taking a look at the numbers can help you answer that question, so here are the Top Ten Chicago Bulls First Half Stats.
So what do we know about this team?
Taking a look at the numbers can help you answer that question, so here are the Top Ten Chicago Bulls First Half Stats.
15
Counting tonight, Larry Hughes has missed the last 15 games of the season.
You had to know this is how the Hughes experiment in Chicago would end up.
Remember, we're talking about a guy who said that he'd rather be on a losing team averaging over 20 points a game than a role player for a good team.
Pax is going to have to perform a miracle to get this guy out of town.
1
Johnny Red Kerr was the Chicago Bulls first coach.
'Big Red' is as much a part of this team's culture as the Bull itself is.The ceremony held in his honor this week is something every Bulls fan should see at least once.
4
Ben Gordon has two four-point plays this season.
Even more importantly, both came with only seconds remaining on the clock.
Gordon is one of the most frustrating players I can remember. On the one hand, he can score at will and when Gordon heats up it's lights out.
But on the other, he can't play defense and is one of the most selfish guys on the floor.
He needs a change of scenery, but ideally I think that Ben would be an unreal 6th man for team heading to the playoffs.
18.5 & 11.3
Points and rebounds Tyrus Thomas is averaging over the past four contests.
A little motivated by the trade rumors Ty-Riser?
No matter what the cause, it's nice to see Thomas produce like we had been hoping for since coming out of LSU. I'd still love to know who convinced him to become a spot up shooter, but his ability to rebound and finish at the rim is just what the Bulls need to make a second half push.
9
9-19 - Bulls Road RecordThe Bulls will never become an elite team until they learn how to win on the road.
There were some signs of improvement on their recent road trip, but not enough to be considered a playoff contender.
52 vs. 778
Total games Vinny Del Negro has coached vs. how many Mike D'Antoni has coached.
This really doesn't have anything to do with D'Antoni. It simply serves as a method of comparison to illustrate how inexperienced My Coach Vinny really is.
It's tough to watch him struggle through tight games, but even tougher to allow him time to learn.
But what I really want to know is how the Chicago Bulls head coaching job became such a joke in the NBA. We're talking about the last dynasty in the NBA, 6 World Championships, Michael Jordan, Scottie Pippen, etc...And we end up with a guy who's never even held a clipboard?
0
Total number of trades made by John Paxson.
At the start of the season, everyone knew that because the Bulls drafted Derrick Rose, Paxson would need to make a trade to clear up the backcourt.
Um, still waiting Pax.
Much has been made of his inability to pull the trigger even when the Golden Goose is in his cross hairs, so we'll leave that alone.
But if he wants to keep that job, Pax needs to make a move.
Amare?
2
The Bulls are 2 games behind the Milwaukee Bucks for the 8th spot in the East.
You've got to love the East right?
The Milwaukee Bucks have lost Michael Redd for the season, Andrew Bogut for eight weeks, Luke Ridnour for 4 and are single-handedly keeping the Bulls playoff hopes alive.
It seems like the Bulls have perfected the art of backing into the playoffs and this year doesn't look to be any different.
16.9 - 6.3 - 2.5
Derrick Rose's season averages (points, assists, turnovers).
How would you rate Derrick Rose's first half season in the NBA?
If you consider it anything less than impressive I implore you to explain to me why. Outside of a few rough patches here and there every rookie goes through, Rose has been the most consistent player on the team. His acceleration up the court is something that needs to be seen to be believed and that mid range jumper is starting to fall more consistently.
Derrick Rose is no joke, he's the real deal and we should all take a second and think about how this team would have been if that ping pong ball didn't bounce our way.
23-29
Overall Record
The bottom line.
And in reality, this is about where I expected them to be. Rookie point guard, rookie coach, overpaid veterans, contract years, injuries included, I'm half surprised by that record.
There's a lot of work that needs to be done, but I'm not willing to tow the Bears kind of 'We're almost there' motto just yet. Pax desperately needs to clear some cap space, pull off some moves that compliment Rose and then we can get started.
Hang in there Bulls fans.
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Top ten Chicago athletes who should probably take steriods
10. Juan Pierre
9. Tyson Chandler
With steroids...
Maybe Tyson could have spared the Bulls from the Ben Wallace Era.
8. Patrick Kane
With steroids...
Maybe Tyson could have spared the Bulls from the Ben Wallace Era.
8. Patrick Kane
With steroids...Maybe the added strength could make Kane one of the league's most dominant scoreers.
7. Scott Podsednik
With steroids...Maybe Scotty Pods could have top his 2005 regular season home run total: 0.
6. Paul Edinger
With steroids....Maybe Corkscrew wouldn't have always been so short on kickoffs.
5. Josh Fields
With steroids....Maybe Fields could revert back to the form he showed in the second half of 2006.
4. Kyle Orton
With steroids....Maybe Orton could complete a pass longer than 15 yards.
3. Joakim Noah
With steroids...Maybe Joakim could be the defensive anchor in the middle the Bulls desperately need.
2. Mike Brown
With steroids...
Maybe Brown could have come back from injury quicker.
With steroids...
Maybe Brown could have come back from injury quicker.
1. Mark Grace
With steroids....
Maybe Grace could have been a Hall of Famer with the added power.
With steroids....
Maybe Grace could have been a Hall of Famer with the added power.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
Top Ten Chicago Teasers
The focus of this list is on young guys who had one really good season in Chicago, but then, for a variety of reasons, were never really heard from again.
10. Anthony Thomas
The “A-Train” was a key member of the 2001 Bears who took the league by surprise in going 13-3. Thomas rushed for nearly 1200 yards that season and won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. With the Bears’ struggles the next few years came Thomas’ own struggles. Three unproductive years later he was gone, and last season was out of football.
9. Jay Williams
His individual statistics (10 points, five assists) may not have been overly impressive as a rookie, especially when you think about the numbers Derrick Rose is putting up now. Still, the majority of Bulls fans and people around the league felt like Williams was on the path to stardom. Think a less quick Chris Paul with a better jump shot. We all know what happened next. A motorcycle accident cost Williams his career, and set the Bulls franchise back a few more years.
8. Mark Anderson
After coming out of nowhere to record 12 sacks as a situational pass rusher in his rookie year, Anderson’s problems began when he was named a starter over Alex Brown heading into 2007. These last two years Anderson has really struggled, recording only six sacks total. There’s even more than a good chance that Anderson, once regarded as the next Dwight Freeney, might not be in the Bears’ plans for next season.
7. Brandon McCarthy
Remember when Kenny Williams said McCarthy was untouchable the offseason after the Sox won the World Series? Even though he made only 12 starts and wasn’t on the team’s playoff roster, McCarthy appeared to have future stud written all over him. An up and down next season had the organization cooling on his potential. Williams then pulled a shocker by trading McCarthy to Texas for a mediocre prospect named John Danks, a move that upset most Sox fans at the time.
6. Corey Patterson
He’s a running joke in Chicago now, but people forget that Patterson actually had two pretty decent years with the Cubs from 2003-2004. In ’03, he was hitting right around .300 before he got injured halfway though the season and the next year he hit 24 home runs from his leadoff spot. Once considered a five-tool player and can’t miss prospect, the Cubs finally gave up on Patterson’s potential and traded him after the ’05 season to Baltimore.
5. Marcus Robinson
Drafted by the Bears in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft, Robinson set a club record with 84 catches, 1400 yards and nine touchdowns his second year in the league. His ability to catch the deep ball that season made rookie quarterback Cade McNown look well, not totally awful. After that breakout year, Robinson was never the same, as injuries slowed him down. He officially retied from the league last June.
4. Elton Brand
Brand was the only reason to watch the Bulls in 2000, becoming just the second rookie in league history to average 20 points and 10 rebounds. After a second solid year in Chicago, it appeared the Bulls had found their franchise player. That is until, Jerry Krause got involved. For some reason I still don’t understand, Krause felt like Brand would never be able to carry a team by himself, and traded him on draft night for the rights to Tyson Chandler. I know that Brand has been injured the last two seasons, but didn’t I hear that the Bulls have been desperately looking for a low-post scorer for some time now?
3. Rich Hill
Trying to solve the mysterious case of Hill is now no longer the Cubs’ problem, as they basically gave him to the Orioles for nothing. In 2007, his second full year in the league, Hill was the Cubs’ second-best starter, going 11-8 with a 3.92 E.R.A. It’s still puzzling what happened next. After having problems finding the strike zone in his first few starts last season, he was sent back down to triple-A Iowa, and then later to Rookie ball in Mesa.
2. Charlie Weis
Okay, obviously not a young Chicago athlete, but how could you leave Weis off this list? His first year at Notre Dame, Weis put the Irish back on the college football map. It took him only seven games to earn a new 10-year contract. Now, after a combined record of 10-15 these past two seasons, Weis quickly went from being a coaching genius to a guy who is very much on the coaching hot seat.
1. Mark Prior
Definitely the ultimate teaser. Prior’s ridiculous 2003 season (18-6, 2.43 ERA) had Cubs fans envisioning great things from this dynamic young power pitcher. Injuries ended up ruining his career way too soon. If Prior had stayed healthy, it’s likely the Cubs would not still be waiting 101 years and counting for a World Series title.
10. Anthony Thomas
The “A-Train” was a key member of the 2001 Bears who took the league by surprise in going 13-3. Thomas rushed for nearly 1200 yards that season and won the NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year. With the Bears’ struggles the next few years came Thomas’ own struggles. Three unproductive years later he was gone, and last season was out of football.9. Jay Williams
His individual statistics (10 points, five assists) may not have been overly impressive as a rookie, especially when you think about the numbers Derrick Rose is putting up now. Still, the majority of Bulls fans and people around the league felt like Williams was on the path to stardom. Think a less quick Chris Paul with a better jump shot. We all know what happened next. A motorcycle accident cost Williams his career, and set the Bulls franchise back a few more years.8. Mark Anderson
After coming out of nowhere to record 12 sacks as a situational pass rusher in his rookie year, Anderson’s problems began when he was named a starter over Alex Brown heading into 2007. These last two years Anderson has really struggled, recording only six sacks total. There’s even more than a good chance that Anderson, once regarded as the next Dwight Freeney, might not be in the Bears’ plans for next season.7. Brandon McCarthy
Remember when Kenny Williams said McCarthy was untouchable the offseason after the Sox won the World Series? Even though he made only 12 starts and wasn’t on the team’s playoff roster, McCarthy appeared to have future stud written all over him. An up and down next season had the organization cooling on his potential. Williams then pulled a shocker by trading McCarthy to Texas for a mediocre prospect named John Danks, a move that upset most Sox fans at the time.6. Corey Patterson
He’s a running joke in Chicago now, but people forget that Patterson actually had two pretty decent years with the Cubs from 2003-2004. In ’03, he was hitting right around .300 before he got injured halfway though the season and the next year he hit 24 home runs from his leadoff spot. Once considered a five-tool player and can’t miss prospect, the Cubs finally gave up on Patterson’s potential and traded him after the ’05 season to Baltimore.5. Marcus Robinson
Drafted by the Bears in the fourth round of the 1997 NFL Draft, Robinson set a club record with 84 catches, 1400 yards and nine touchdowns his second year in the league. His ability to catch the deep ball that season made rookie quarterback Cade McNown look well, not totally awful. After that breakout year, Robinson was never the same, as injuries slowed him down. He officially retied from the league last June.4. Elton Brand
Brand was the only reason to watch the Bulls in 2000, becoming just the second rookie in league history to average 20 points and 10 rebounds. After a second solid year in Chicago, it appeared the Bulls had found their franchise player. That is until, Jerry Krause got involved. For some reason I still don’t understand, Krause felt like Brand would never be able to carry a team by himself, and traded him on draft night for the rights to Tyson Chandler. I know that Brand has been injured the last two seasons, but didn’t I hear that the Bulls have been desperately looking for a low-post scorer for some time now?3. Rich Hill
Trying to solve the mysterious case of Hill is now no longer the Cubs’ problem, as they basically gave him to the Orioles for nothing. In 2007, his second full year in the league, Hill was the Cubs’ second-best starter, going 11-8 with a 3.92 E.R.A. It’s still puzzling what happened next. After having problems finding the strike zone in his first few starts last season, he was sent back down to triple-A Iowa, and then later to Rookie ball in Mesa.2. Charlie Weis
Okay, obviously not a young Chicago athlete, but how could you leave Weis off this list? His first year at Notre Dame, Weis put the Irish back on the college football map. It took him only seven games to earn a new 10-year contract. Now, after a combined record of 10-15 these past two seasons, Weis quickly went from being a coaching genius to a guy who is very much on the coaching hot seat.1. Mark Prior
Definitely the ultimate teaser. Prior’s ridiculous 2003 season (18-6, 2.43 ERA) had Cubs fans envisioning great things from this dynamic young power pitcher. Injuries ended up ruining his career way too soon. If Prior had stayed healthy, it’s likely the Cubs would not still be waiting 101 years and counting for a World Series title.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Top ten Chicago NBA All-Star event performances
The all-star game is next week, and while I can almost guarantee you I won't be watching any of it willingly, many actually look forward to the plethora of events. While there has not been much to celebrate all-star game-wise with the Bulls for the larger part of the decade, they do have a pretty rich tradition of great performers. Below are the top ten.
10. Tyrus Thomas- 2007 Slam Dunk Competitor
He didn't win, he didn't even qualify for the next round, but one thing is certain, those shoes were off da hook!
9. Craig Hodges 1990-92 Three-Point Champion
He and Larry Legend are the only guys in the NBA to have won three three-point contests. Unfortunately, in actual games he never got quite the looks he did in these contests.
8. Michael Jordan 1987 Slam Dunk Champ
"His Air-ness" first took off in a dunk contest and took title one of two.
7. Jordan 1998 MVP
Jordan scored a modest 23 in what should have been his final ASG game in a 135-114 rout of the West.
6. Elton Brand 2000 Rookies game
Then-rookie Brand scored 16 and a game-high 21 rebounds (12 offensive) in the inaugural Rookie/Sophomore showdown.
5. Steve Kerr 1997 Three-Point Champ
This is the last time I actually watched the 3P-comp, but Kerr was simply on fire, edging Tim Legler in the title.
4. Jordan 1988 Slam Dunk Champ
Posters of his free-throw line dunk have hung on kids walls for decades after this competition. The "Jumpman" logo is around because of that epic showdown with him and Dominique.
3. Jordan 1996 MVP
There might be a little bias here, especially because he only scored 20. But the reason he is this high is mainly because of those aqua jerseys. Seriously, I would pay good money to get a replica.
2. Scottie Pippen 1994 MVP
While Pip played second-fiddle to MJ for over a decade, he took advantage of Jordan's first retirement by becoming the '94 ASG MVP. Scottie scored 29 and grabbed 11 boards in the 127-118 East win.
1. Michael Jordan 1988 MVP
MJ just did what he always did, dominate at home. He scored 40 and had eight assists to lead the East. While he won the dunk contest the season before, this surely had to be the "this guy is for real" game.
**Side Note: Listen to the names of some of the other guys on this east squad: Larry Bird, Danny Ainge, Doc Rivers, Brad Daughterty, Kevin McHale and Mo Cheeks. Notice a theme of any sort?
He didn't win, he didn't even qualify for the next round, but one thing is certain, those shoes were off da hook!
9. Craig Hodges 1990-92 Three-Point Champion
He and Larry Legend are the only guys in the NBA to have won three three-point contests. Unfortunately, in actual games he never got quite the looks he did in these contests.
8. Michael Jordan 1987 Slam Dunk Champ
"His Air-ness" first took off in a dunk contest and took title one of two.
7. Jordan 1998 MVP
Jordan scored a modest 23 in what should have been his final ASG game in a 135-114 rout of the West.
6. Elton Brand 2000 Rookies game
Then-rookie Brand scored 16 and a game-high 21 rebounds (12 offensive) in the inaugural Rookie/Sophomore showdown.
5. Steve Kerr 1997 Three-Point Champ
This is the last time I actually watched the 3P-comp, but Kerr was simply on fire, edging Tim Legler in the title.
4. Jordan 1988 Slam Dunk Champ
Posters of his free-throw line dunk have hung on kids walls for decades after this competition. The "Jumpman" logo is around because of that epic showdown with him and Dominique.
3. Jordan 1996 MVP
There might be a little bias here, especially because he only scored 20. But the reason he is this high is mainly because of those aqua jerseys. Seriously, I would pay good money to get a replica.
2. Scottie Pippen 1994 MVP
While Pip played second-fiddle to MJ for over a decade, he took advantage of Jordan's first retirement by becoming the '94 ASG MVP. Scottie scored 29 and grabbed 11 boards in the 127-118 East win.
1. Michael Jordan 1988 MVP
MJ just did what he always did, dominate at home. He scored 40 and had eight assists to lead the East. While he won the dunk contest the season before, this surely had to be the "this guy is for real" game.
**Side Note: Listen to the names of some of the other guys on this east squad: Larry Bird, Danny Ainge, Doc Rivers, Brad Daughterty, Kevin McHale and Mo Cheeks. Notice a theme of any sort?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)