2008 College Bowl Picks 4

Outback Bowl
Iowa vs. South Carolina
Both teams Defenses are ranked in the top 12, but Iowa's hot streak and the running of Shonn Greene will be the difference. PICK: Iowa RESULT: Iowa 31-10 (13-10)

Capital One Bowl
Michigan State vs. Georgia
Many people's pre season #1 pick Georgia disappointed many this season and Michigan State played beyond expectations. This game will feature two of the nations best RBs in J. Ringer and K. Moreno. Look for Georgia to play the way they were supposed to all season. PICK: Georgia RESULT: Georgia 24-12, Both star RBs were held in check by the opposing Ds (14-10)

Gator Bowl
Clemson vs. Nebraska
Clemson was another team that didn't play up to their pre season top 10 hype. They changed coaches during the season and regained some of the offensive power they had in 2007. PICK:Clemson RESULT: Nebraska 26-21, Clemson blew a 14-3 halftime lead (14-11)

Rose Bowl
USC vs. Penn State
USC could have easily been in the title game, with so many NFL prospects this should be another beating of the Big 10 champs just like last year's beating of Illinois. PICK: USC RESULT: USC 38-24, this one was all USC despite Penn State's late effort (15-11)

Orange Bowl
Virginia Tech vs. Cincinnati
Does this even deserve to be a BCS Bowl game? V Tech usually stinks it up in Bowl games and Cinci has found creative ways to win all season. PICK: Cinci RESULT: V Tech 20-7, The Hokies end their bowl slump (15-12)

Cotton Bowl
Texas Tech vs. Ole Miss
This is a good SEC/Big 12 battle just like the title game. Tech knows how to score and Crabtree should put on a huge show, in what may be his last college game. PICK: Texas Tech RESULT:Ole Miss 47-34, Highly disappointing showing by the Red Raider as the SEC wins another a bowl game (15-13)

Liberty Bowl
East Carolina vs. Kentucky
ECU had a lot of early season upsets and then stumbled before winning 6 of their last 7. PICK:ECU RESULT:Kentucky 25-19, another game where the team struggling ha a big 4th quarter to get the win (15-14)

Sugar Bowl
Utah vs. Alabama
This year's non BCS team that claims they belong with the big boys. Alabama was number 1 much of the year and played a tough SEC title game with Florida. Alabama will be too strong for Utah. PICK: Alabama RESULT: Utah 31-17, Alabama gets embarrassed by Utah who will finish the season as the only unbeaten team in Division 1 (15-15)

International Bowl
UCONN vs. Buffalo
Both programs are on the rise but UCONN features the nation leading rusher RB D. Brown, and the chatter of Buffalo coach T. Gill leaving for a better job may be a distraction. PICK: UCONN RESULT: UCONN 38-20, UCONN muffed 2 kickoffs, and turned the ball over 5 times in the first 17 minutes of the game before getting back on track. Huskies RB D. Brown rumbled for 261 yds (16-15)

Fiesta Bowl
Ohio State vs. Texas
Many question whether Ohio State from an overrated Big 1o deserved a BCS bowl, and Texas will show them they don't while trying to gain some National Championship votes from the media. PICK: Texas RESULT: Texas 24-21, Ohio State blew a late lead to give Texas the win, and despite the Longhorns pleas to voters should not be a factor in the National title picture. (17-15)

GMAC Bowl
Tulsa vs. Ball State
2 great QBs in this one, Ball State lost the MAC championship to ruin their perfect season, their coach has left them and they were too scared to committ to a bowl matchup with Boise St. before the MAC Championship loss. Things continue in that direction. PICK: Tulsa RESULT: Tulsa 45-13 Ball State's downfall continued as Tulsa put a beat down on them (18-15)

BCS Title Game
Florida vs. Oklahoma
The 2 best teams in the country. I had Oklahoma has my #1 team for this season after last seasons bowl games and they have looked powerful this season, and "but for" some injuries to their middle linebackers could be undefeated. The Sooners also have some key injuries heading into this game. Florida has won all the big games this season and after Tim Tebow shed some tears after watching his team botch an XP, nobody has played harder than the Gators. 2 Heisman QBs face off, and the current Heisman winner usually doesn't play too well, and the SEC has dominated the title game in recent years. PICK: Florida. RESULT: Florida 24-14 As there was any doubt the SEC would win the BCS title. Florida showed that they could also play some D with 2 goal line stops before halftime. And as Tim Tebow promised after the loss to Ole Miss, he would not let his team lose (19-15)

Bowl Picks this season: 19-15 - 56%
Bowl Picks all time: 40-26 - 61%
Picks All time: 62-35 - 64%

You can contact Tony @ TTOHblog@hotmail.com

2008 College Bowl Picks 3

Independence Bowl
La Tech vs. N. Illinois
La Tech has won 4 of their last 5 games and will be playing close to home. PICK: La Tech RESULT: La Tech 17-10 (6-6)

Papa Johns Bowl
Rutgers vs. NC State
Both teams finished strong after slow starts to the season, a win in this game will be a nice way to finish a season. PICK: Rutgers RESULT: Rutgers 29-23, Rutgers scored 23 2nd half points to come from behind to get the win (7-6)

Alamo Bowl
Missouri vs. Northwestern
Missouri was a victim of playing in one of the 2 best conferences in CFB and should steamroll Northwestern. PICK: Mizzou RESULT: Mizzou 30-23, not as big a margin of victory as many expected (8-6)

Humanitarian Bowl
Maryland vs. Nevada
Nevada averages almost 38 ppg and has 2 1000 yards rushers to lead their offense. Maryland like much of the ACC was very inconsistent this season. PICK: Nevada RESULT: Maryland 42-35 (8-7)

Holiday Bowl
Oklahoma St vs. Oregon
Both teams can score and neither play much defense. Oklahoma St. was in the top 10 most of the season, with all of their losses coming to teams in the ranking's top 3. PICK: Oklahoma St. RESULT: Oregon 42-31 Oregon continued OSU's late season slide from the top of the rankings (8-8)

Texas Bowl
Rice vs. Western Michigan
Rice looks to win their first Bowl game since 1954 and they will be playing close to home. PICK: Rice RESULT: Rice 38-14 (9-8)

Armed Forces Bowl
Air Force vs. Houston
Hard to pick against Air Force in the Armed Forces Bowl, but Houston led the nation in offense this season. Pick Houston RESULT: Houston 34-28 (10-8)

Sun Bowl
Oregon St vs. Pitt
Oregon St. was ranked high all season by virtue of their upset win over USC, and the Rodgers brothers will be too much to handle for Pitt. Pitt did finish the season on a roll with 2 quality wins. PICK: Oregon State RESULT: Oregon St 3-0, not the high scoring Beavers people expected (11-8)

Music City Bowl
Boston College vs. Vanderbilt
BC has the nations longest Bowl winning streak but after the loss of QB C. Crane have had to rely on their defense. Vandy is making its first Bowl appearance in 26 years, and playing close to home. Tough to pick against BC in a bowl. PICK: BC RESULT: Vandy 16-14, Vandy stops BC's bowl winning streak when BC committs two costly personal fouls late in the 4th qurter. (11-9)

Insight Bowl
Minnesota vs. Kansas
The gophers limped down the stretch this season even losing to Michigan. Kansas couldn't follow up on their 2007 season but had a big win against rival Mizzou to end the season and should carry that momentum into this game. PICK: Kansas RESULT: Kansas 42-21 (12-9)

Chick Fil A Bowl
LSU vs. Georgia Tech
Georgia Tech ended their season on a roll beating 4 ranked opponents. LSU did not follow up their National Title season like they hoped losing 3 out of their last 4 games. Hard to pick against the almighty SEC but... PICK: Georgia Tech RESULT: LSU 38-3, The old LSU showed up and kicked some butt (12-10)

Check back for results;

Contact Tony @ TTOHblog@hotmail.com

2008 College Bowl Picks 2

Poinsettia Bowl
Boise St vs. TCU
In what could be the best matchup of the non BCS bowls undefeated Boise St looks to complete their perfect season furthering their argument that they should have been included in the BCS games. This matchup will pit a high scoring offense against a fast stingy defense. TCU's only losses came to 2 teams that ARE playing in BCS games Oklahoma and Utah. Unless Boise St has some more trick plays, I'm picking TCU. PICK:TCU RESULT: TCU 17-16, Boise State scored 10 quick points then the TCU defense took over and finished the game with an INT. (2-4)

Hawaii Bowl
Notre Dame vs. Hawaii
Hawaii is not as good as they were in the June Jones/Colt Brennan days but they get a home game against a highly disappointing Notre Dame team. Poor Jimmy Clausen will be lucky to survive 4 years of the beatings his O-Line allows him to take each game. Notre Dame should enjoy the warm weather because that may be the only fun part of this trip. PICK: Hawaii RESULT: Notre Dame 49-21, Good for Notre Dame proving me wrong, Jimmy Clausen finally got some support from his teammates. (2-5)

Motor City Bowl
Central Michigan vs. Florida Atlantic
CMU's QB Dan LeFevour is one of the best QBs that nobody knows about and is a major offensive weapon both with his arm and legs. FAU QB Rusty Smith has also put up some big numbers in the past 2 seasons, so this could be a high scoring game. PICK:CMU RESULT: FAU 24-21 (2-6)

Car Care Bowl
West Virginia vs. North Carolina
Early in the season both of these teams had BCS aspirations. This will be the final game for WVU QB Pat White and his stellar college career, and with a few weeks to rest all of his injuries should put on show. PICK: WVU RESULT: WVU 31-30, Pat White led WVU from behind to get the win (3-6)

Champs Sports Bowl
Wisconsin vs. Florida State
Two disappointing teams from this year, neither of which could win any of their must win games. Both teams rely on the run, and I'm picking FSU for no reason but their near home game advantage. PICK: FSU RESULT: FSU 42-13, All FSU as expected (4-6)

Emerald Bowl
Miami vs. California
Miami QB Robert Marve has been suspended for this game for missing classes (In Miami, can you blame him?) So QB Jacory Harris who splits time will play the whole game and I think he will play well, just not well enough. Cal's RB J. Best will prove too much for the Hurricanes . PICK: Cal RESULT: Cal 24-17, a whole lot of J. Best, as expected (5-6)

A little bit of a comeback with the picks.

Check Back for Results.

Contact Tony at TTOHblog@hotmail.com

2008 College Bowl Picks 1

Bowl Picks are back!

After taking the regular season off, I have decided to once again pick all the Bowl games.

Last season I wen 21-11 for the Bowls which gave me an overall record of 43-20.

Here we go;

Eagle Bank Bowl
Navy vs. Wake Forest
A rematch from earlier this season that saw Navy win 24-17. Navy's Defense finished the season strong with 2 shutouts and they run a a tricky triple option offense that gives teams a lot of trouble. Wake Forest was a disappointment this year on offense. PICK: Navy
RESULT: Wake Forest 29-19, Wake scored 15 points in the 4th quarter to come from behind
(0-1)

New Mexico Bowl
Fresno State vs. Colorado State
Fresno State was a top 25 team earlier in the season and will get back a few offensive weapons from injury. PICK: Fresno State
RESULT: CSU 40-35, Another come from behind victory 20 points in the 4th quarter, Colorado State RB G. Johnson's 285 yds/2 TDs was the difference. (0-2)

St. Petersburg Bowl
South Florida vs. Memphis
When was the last time anyone said South Florida's season was a major disappointment? After a strong 2007, the Bulls had high expectations for 2008, but inconsistent play plagued the Bulls. My money is on QB Matt Grothe and South Florida playing up to their capabilities and making amends for a lost season. PICK: South Florida RESULT: USF 41-14, as expected a one sided affair. (1-2)

Las Vegas Bowl
BYU vs. Arizona
Arizona makes its first bowl appearance since 1998. BYU is a high scoring offense led by QB Max Hall and RB Harvey Unga, as long as they continue to score they should win despite a defense that gives up a ton of points. PICK: BYU RESULT: AZ 31-21, BYU was pretty disappointing on offense and their defense gave up some big plays to the Arizona offense, this is the type of game that voters point to when non BCS conference teams campaign for BCS games as to why they don't belong with the big boys. (1-3)

New Orleans Bowl
Troy vs. Southern Miss.
Southern Miss needed to win their last 4 games to become bowl eligible and have RB Damion Fletcher. Troy won the Sun Belt after losing their starting QB early in the season. I think Southern Miss' momentum comes to a halt. PICK: Troy RESULT: Southern Miss. 30-27 OT, I only saw the OT of this game due to the much more important Giants/Panthers game and both teams looked bad. (1-4)

Not a good start, but maybe this is an argument for a playoff system, who cares about unispired teams going through the motions in low level bowls.


Check back for more Bowl picks and Results

Contact Tony @ TTOHblog@hotmail.com

Mets offseason plans for 2009

Another season that came down to the last day for the New York Mets, that ended in disappointment and another year of playoff tickets for me to throw away. Here are some of Tony's Thoughts on how the Mets will approach the offseason.

2008 said goodbye to Shea Stadium, 2009 will say hello to Citi Field, probably the only reason I will keep my season tickets after the way the last 2 seasons ended.

GM Omar Minaya-He was heading into the last year of his deal and has already been rewarded with an extension? huh? Shouldn't Omar have to prove he can do more than spend the Wilpon's money? Make the Playoffs? He over paid Carlos Beltran and Pedro Martinez (when everybody knew he had a torn labrum) He traded for Johan Santana but only because the Red Sox and Yankees wouldn't give up prospects and give Johan the money he wanted. He signed Luis Castillo to a 4 year deal after having knee surgery that would take away his greatest asset his speed? He traded away Brian Bannister for hit and run driver A. Burgos. He refused to trade Milledge and Heilman for Dan Haren or Joe Blanton a few seasons ago? The only successful move I can think of during the Minaya era is the Ryan Church trade. He threw Willie Randolph under the bus for a team he built, I think the Mets should have made him wait until after this season to EARN an extension.

Manager Jerry Manuel-Manuel had his interim tag removed and was given a low cost deal that makes him expendable should the Mets struggle again. The Mets did play better once Manuel took over but, its hard for a team to relax and play good baseball when they know the manager (Randolph) could be fired if they lose. Manuel is guilty of the same bullpen abuse Randolph was, he uses almost all his guys every night, for one batter. Does he not realize that even though each pitcher may only throw a few pitches, it takes a toll on their arms to warm up every night? The Bullpen was not very good this season but their workload was definitely a factor.

1b C. Delgado-The Mets have already told Delgado they will pick up his 09 option which could be a bargain at 12 million if he plays more like he did from June-Sept and not like he did in April and May. Delgado will be a cheaper alternative than the 200 million plus it will take to sign Mark Texiera.

2b As mentioned above Luis Castillo is signed for another 3 seasons and hopefully will never have to play another game for the Mets. 08 saw the Mets so desperate that they used 38 year old D. Easley, all field, no hit A. Reyes and career AAA guy R. Martinez, who was their guy down the stretch. Well the good news is that the Mets have asked slick hitting LF Dan Murphy to learn 2b in the Arizona Fall League, Murphy was a 3b in the minors but was obviously blocked by one Mr. Wright. If Murphy can not make the switch, a name being thrown around is Orlando Hudson.

LF-Not even urinating on his hands could keep Moises Alou healthy in 08. LF saw the likes of Murphy, Endy"the catch" Chavez, Trot Nixon, Fernando Tatis and another 3b turned OF Nick Evans. A priority for the offseason is finding a power hitting LF most likely a right handed batter. One possible cheaper alternative would be Raul Ibanez, who is 37 (just the age Omar likes them) he keeps putting up solid numbers with little fanfare in Seattle. Ibanez would likely ask for a 3 year deal in the 10-14 million per season range, he could play LF this year then switch to 1b for 2010, and 11, after Delgado leaves, this option would allow the Mets to target LF Matt Holliday who will be a FA after 2009. Some other alternatives would be Manny Ramirez, Omar has a major man crush on the eccentric Manny, but new agent Scott Boras will want atleast a 4 year 100 million deal, and whats to say Manny's phantom knee injury doesn't rear its ugly head again. He quit on his team, and would not be a good example for the already easily distracted Jose Reyes. And can you imagine Manny in his pajama size uniform running around LF in Citi Field without the protection of the Green Monster? Another target would be On Base/HR Machine/Strikeout King Adam Dunn, He too can play LF this season and move to 1b but he is another lefty bat. Another aging star Minaya will like is Bobby Abreu, also a lefty. One other option is Met killer Pat Burrell who the Phillies may try to replace with Manny Ramirez.

Rotation-The Starters should be solid, Santana, Pelfrey and Maine provided his shoulder surgery went as well as expected. Pedro will be gone and proved he is no longer capable of giving more than 4 innings in the NL which means he is just about done. The Mets need to resign big game pitcher Oliver Perez, even if they give him 4 years, 60 million, he is a better value than an AJ Burnett, Derek Lowe, Ben Sheets or Andy Pettite, and if Carlos Silva got a 12 million a year deal , come on, Perez has some rough outings but he pitched gems in big games; Game 7 of the 2006 NLCS, the last game of 08 was going well until he got into trouble with walks in the 5th, and he was pitching on 3 days rest. The Mets do need to find a 5th starter and the name on everyone's mind is CC Sabathia, but can the Mets really tie up 2 pitchers that will make 22+ million dollars per year? Would you even want CC after watching the Brewers let him throw something like 8 CGs down the stretch many over 130 pitches? He is not in good shape to begin with and is a good candidate for an elbow/shoulder explosion within the next 2 seasons. I would prefer the Mets to sign a veteran to pitch out of the 5 hole and hope that Jon Niese can be ready by midseason or make a trade at that time.

Bullpen-As I mentioned above, they were severely overworked but with the exception of Wagner there was no consistency in this group. Heilman should be traded, all these other teams value him as a potential starter and the Mets should get something while they can. Schoenweiss is awful, the Tigers were willing to trade the Mets LF Marcus Thames last season for him, betcha they were glad they kept Thames. When Wagner went down, so did the Mets season, Peter Gammons had a stat that showed if the Mets would have ended games after 8 innings, they Mets would have won the division by 8.5 games! Wagner is out for all of next season. This creates a desperate situation for the Mets at the backend of the bullpen, and plays right into the greedy hands of one K-Rod. The Angels seem likely to focus on resigning Big Tex and moving on at closer. The other teams with enough money to pursue K-Rod (Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs) already have closers. The Dodgers could be another suitor, but they have a much cheaper alternative in J. Broxton. Regardless the Mets need major rebuilding in the bullpen.

It will be interesting to see how the Mets attack the offseason, they will want to reverse their fortunes as they move into Citi Field and as always they will be competing for the back pages with the cross town Yankees who are poised to spend a lot of money after missing the playoffs for the first time in Derek Jeter's career.

2008 Fantasy Football Rankings-RBs

Here are Tony's RB rankings;

1.LT-Obvious #1

2. Westbrook-Recs put him at #2, health is always a question, but he has only missed 2 games, the last 2 seasons.

3. M. Barber-He had 975yds and 12TDs last season in 200 carries, look for him to be a monster this season with the increased carries and clear goal line assignment.

4. Peterson-I worry about the injuries and if you take away the 2 huge games he had last year he only averaged 72 yds per game. And he had games of 3, 27 and 36 rush yards in the last month of the season, otherwise known as the Fantasy Playoffs.

5. Addai-He scored in 10 of 15 games and but you have to worry about the Colts shutting down at the end of the season, Addai only had 10 total carries in Weeks 16 and 17.

6. S. Jax-I worry about the holdout (See LJ 07) but Bulger and Pace are healthy this season, and Jackson's season should look more like the way he finished last season.

7. Portis-Look for the skins to rely on the run while Campbell tries to learn another new offense.

8. Gore-Does Martz make him look like Faulk? Most owners would settle for something closer to the Gore of 06 and not the Gore of 07. Teams will stack the line until O'Sullivan can prove he can run the Martz passing O.

9. Lynch-Still no real passing game in Buffalo, but he is supposed to get more recs this season.

10. LJ-Healthy this season, LJ should bounce back as KC will lean on him as usual.

11. MOJO Drew-He manages to score a healthy amount of TDs and catches a good amount of passes. He is a Fred Taylor injury away from being a stud.

12. R. Bush-NO-This ranking is purely on recs, if you don't play in a PPR league drop Bush down into the 20's.

13. Grant-His body of work is only 8 games, but what an 8 games it was, draft with a little bit of risk, much like D. Anderson at QB.

14. J. Lewis-Lewis saw a resurgence in Clev and with the Browns on the way up could have another solid year.

15. McGahee-Knee injury is a concern and the emergence of R. Rice could cut into what was supposed to be a big year for Willis playing the LT role in Cam Cameron's O.

16. E. Graham-Much like Grant, can he keep it going this season? Dunn is only competition so it looks like the Bucs will sink or swim with Graham, and they gave him the big deal he wanted.

17. B. Jacobs-Beast, if he can stay healthy for a season, he is a top 12 back. He drops a ton of passes though.

18. McFadden-Looks like he has passed Huggy Bear Jr on the depth chart, Run DMC is an injury risk b/c of his height and the hits he takes.

19. Turner-Atl is weak in the pass game, but Turner has some fresh legs and could have a Priest Holmes like emergence after leaving SD.

20. James-He has been solid averaging almost 1300 yds over the last 3 years.

21. Maroney-If the Pats run him like they did at the end of last season, I would move him up, but with the Pats you never know, they may pass the whole game.

22. T. Jones-With Favre and a new O Line things are aligned for Jones to have a nice season, but he has struggled in the pre season.

23. Parker-He is returning from a broken foot, and after having 16 TDs in 06 he had only 2 last season and figures to lose goal line touches to Mendenhall.

24.L. White-His season will depend on how many carries C. Johnson steals, White should get the goal line touches.

25. D. Williams-Held off J. Stewart and looks to prove he should be the featured back in the Panthers time share.

26. S. Young-Denver backs always seem to do well, but could be benched at any moment.

27. K. Smith-Starter by default who had over 400 carries last season at UCF, Lions signed Rudi Johnson to compete.

28. R. Brown-Was well on his way to being an elite back last season until his knee injury. He is coming off an ACL injury, is dealing with a thumb injury, and it looks like Ricky Williams will share the carries in the early part of the season.

29. M. Forte

30. F. Taylor-I don't expect him to have as good a year as he had last season, but Jax is a run first team and its possible for Taylor and Jones-Drew to each get 15-20 carries per week

31. J. Jones

32. C. Perry-Gets the starting nod, but has never been able to stay on the field.

33. J. Stewart-Could be a star if he gets passed the toe injury that has bothered him since last season. Looks to split carries with D. Williams.

34. C. Taylor-Stock rises if/when Peterson gets hurt.

35. M. Morris

36. F. Jones

37. C. Johnson

38. R. Rice

39. R. Williams

40. J. Fargas-Huggy Bear Jr. got paid so they should use him right? Ask Rhodes and Jordan how their 07 went.

41. J. Norwood

42. R. Mendenhall

43. K. Watson

44. A. Green-Starter by default, he will get hurt and Slaton could be the man in Houston

45. D. McAllister

46. L. Washington

47. S. Slaton

48. W. Dunn

49. D. Rhodes

50. D. Ward

51. L. Booker

52. T. Bell-Cut by Detroit could be the answer in Houston, he played in Kubiak's zone blocking scheme in Denver.

53. B. Jackson

54. C. Taylor-Somebody is going to end up getting the carries in Houston.

55. D. Foster

56. K. Jones

57. F. Jackson

58. P. Thomas-Finished strong last season when Bush and Duece were hurt.

59. L. Betts

60. D. Sproles

61. A. Bradshaw

62. R. Johnson-Could be your last pick, and end up the starter in Detroit.

2008 Fantasy Football Preview - WRs

For WRs, I'm going to rank my top 30, then list some other guys I like this season.

Here are Tony's WR rankings;

1. R. Moss-NE-Even if Moss has half the TDs he had last year he is a star.

2. T. Owens-Dal-Averaging 14 TDs over the last 2 seasons, he has stayed out of trouble in Big D, since his overdose, he already signed an extension, and is BFF with his QB.

So a Happy TO = a productive TO

3. R. Wayne-Ind-Took over the WR1 role in Indy with Harrison out last season, 3 year avg, of 91/1292/8.

4. M. Colston-NO-I moved him up over the past few weeks due to some injuries, but if Brees looks more like he did at the end last season and TE Shockey attracts some attention in the middle of the field look for Colston to keep improving 100/1200/12 is not out of the question.

5. B. Edwards-Clev-he drops a notch because of his foot injury which may cost him a few early season games or being a Brown, possible staph infection. The Browns offense has a lot of potential but QB Anderson is dealing with a concussion and Edwards injury may lead to a slow start.

6. A. Johnson-Hou-Could be #2 on this list if he and his QB could stay healthy.

7. L. Fitzgerald-AZ-Likes playing with K. Warner, Fitz scored 9 TDs in the final 7 games last season.

8. TJ Housh.-Cin-Tied for the league lead in recs (112) Should be the Bengals #1 with the shoulder injury to Ocho Cinco.

9. Chad Johnson-Cin-Shoulder injury is a concern, but he has been super consistent over the past 5 years, and last seasons 93/1440/8 was considered a down year despite being in line with his 3 yr avg.

10. T. Holt-Stl-Getting up there in age, that knee is always a concern but can't argue with the numbers he puts up.

11. P. Burress-NYG-We saw what he could do with a severe ankle injury. Its a good sign that he has practiced more in the preseason than he did all of last season.

12. W. Welker-NE-Welker is a stud in PPR leagues, he won't score a bunch of TDs though.

13. S.Smith-Car-Starts the season with a 2 game suspension for rearranging his teammates nose, but he is falling in drafts and should be in line for a big year with the return of a healthy Delhomme.

14. B. Marshall-Den-Lots of off field problems earned Baby TO a 3 game suspension, reduced to 1 game. Marshall has had a big preseason and should be drafted a lot higher then he is falling in drafts.

15. A. Bolden-AZ-WR is disgruntled and wants to be traded, but I think he benefits if Warner is the starter.

16. R. Williams-Det-with the departure of Martz, the pass happy O, will see more of a balance hurting Williams, not to mention the further development of Calvin Johnson.

17. G. Jennings-GB-My question is can he have the year he had last season without Brett Favre or is he the next Lee Evans?

18. S. Holmes-Pit-Primed for a big season as the Steelers let the ball fly last season.

19. M. Harrison-Ind-If healthy could be a draft steal.

20. H. Ward-Pit-Battled some injuries last season but he averaged 5.5 recs per game and scored 7 TDs.

21. J. Cotchery-NYJ-Seems to be the major benefactor of the arrival of Favre, he could be this years Greg Jennings.

22. L. Coles-NYJ

23. D. Bowe-KC

24. D. Driver-GB

25. R. White-Atl-White had a breakout season last year, because the Falcons played from behind most games, this year should see a lot of the same and Ryan should be a better passer than Redman/Harrington.

26. C. Johnson-Det-Back injury limited him last season, should continue to improve.

27. N. Burleson-Sea-He becomes the defacto WR1 with the injuries to Branch and Engram, He had 9 TDs last season playing behind Branch, Engram and Hackett.

28. B. Berrian-Min-He moves from one team with an awful QB to another team with an awful QB.

29. S. Moss-Wash

30. L. Evans-Buf

Here are some other guys I like;

A. Gonzalez-Ind-He gained a lot of experience with Harrison's injury and could do some damage out of the slot in Indy like Stokley did a few years back.

R. Brown-Phi-His recs have increased every year, and he had 9 TDs 2 years ago, with the injury to Curtis, Brown could see a lot of action early in the season.

K. Walter-Hou-Another good guy in PPR leagues, I don't see him scoring more than 6 TDs though.

D. Hester-Chi-Don't Laugh, Hester may actually finish the season as Chicago's #1 WR, they don't have much else and they will get him the ball. If you play in a league that counts his return yards he is an easy top 15 WR.

R. Meachum-NO-Last season's 1st round pick missed last year and has had a big preseason could beat out Patten for the #2 job and seems to have already passed Henderson for #3.

J. Gaffney-NE-Its always hard to predict what the Pats will do, but Gaffney could be solid he scored in 4 of the last 5 games last year and Stallworth is gone this season but he has to hold off former #1 pick Chad Jackson.

DJ Hackett-Car-If he can ever manage to stay healthy he could put up big numbers, playing opposite S. Smith could give him a lot of room to work and he is a nice red zone target on a team without an elite TE.

2008 Fantasy Football Preview-QBs

Here are Tony's QB rankings;

1. T. Brady-NE-Pats offense should be just as potent as last year, expect Brady to reach about 35 TDs, not the 50 he had last year.

2. P. Manning-Ind-Doesn't get more consistent then Manning, knee injury is a concern but still one of the top 2 QBs

3. T. Romo-Dal-Romo has one of the top WRs and one of the top TEs to target. Can carry you some weeks with 4 TDs, but he tends to throw a good amount of INTs (19)

4. D. Brees-NO-After a strong 2006, the Saints started off slowly, but Brees threw 27 TDs in the final 12 games last season in 2007.

5. C. Palmer-Cin-A good candidate for a bounce back season, He has 85 and Housh to throw to and the Bengals added TE Utecht, C. Henry was resigned but chances of him making the team seem slim once the other WRs are healthy.

6. B. Roethlisberger-Pit-The Steelers opened up the passing game last season and Big Ben threw 32 TDs, 25 this season doesn't seem out of the question.

7. D. Anderson-Clev-He was at the helm of a strong offense last season, but can he do it again? Anderson is already dealing with the effects of a concussion and has the pressure of holding off 06 1st rounder Brady Quinn. He is a high risk, high reward player.

8. B. Favre-NYJ-Favre is known to throw with reckless abandon, he should be able to get 20-25 TDs but he may throw that many INTs

9. J. Cutler-Den-He threw 20 TDs last season, while unknowingly suffering from diabetes. He has his health under control and plays with a cast that includes Baby TO and Scheffler. Look for Cutler to continue to improve.

10. M. Bulger-Stl-Al Saunders a Mike Martz disciple takes over as OC, Bulger was hurt most of last year and was also without S-Jax a good deal of 07.

11. D. McNabb-Phi-When he plays, he is usually solid, and that is with no name WRs, but he will break your heart and kill your season with his almost yearly season ending injury. If you take him as your QB1, make sure you have a good backup.

12. M. Hasselbeck-Sea-Seahawks offense should be a little less potent this year, with Hackett gone to Carolina, Engram and Branch injured to start the season, but expect him to be a solid backup for your team.

13. E. Manning-NYG-Don't be fooled by his postseason run, the Giants didn't ask him to win games with his arm (Tyree catch excluded) as they relied on the run. Manning will get you about 25 TDs, but will throw about 20 INTs.

14. J. Delhomme-Car-Another bounce back candidate, he had Tommy John surgery in the off season, the Panthers added 2 WRs and a RB to their offense. Good pick as a backup who could become a #1.

15. P. Rivers-SD

16. D. Garrard-Jax

17. A. Rodgers-GB

18. J. Campbell-Wash-New HC Jim Zorn brings his passing O from Seattle, Wash added 2 WRs in the draft, but I think Campbell needs one more season, and he will be a breakout candidate for 2009.

19. M. Schaub-Hou

20. J. Kitna-Det

21. K. Warner-AZ-Warner is expected to be named the starter, he threw 27 TDs after taking over for Leinart, He has 2 high level WRs but he throws a bunch of picks and fumbles at least once per game.

22. V. Young-Tenn-He can't get any worse, can he?

23. C. Pennington-Mia-He may make a living throwing screen passes to Ted Ginn Jr.

24. J. Garcia-TB

25. T. Edwards-Buf

26. J. Russell-Oak

27. JT O'Sullivan-SF-Most people don't know who he is, but he takes over the Martz offense that made Warner and Kitna stars and nobody knew them either.

28. T. Jackson-Min-He will be asked to handoff almost exclusively.

29. B. Croyle-KC

30. K. Orton-Chi

31. M. Ryan-Atl-Expected to be named starter, he worked magic with sub par talent in college he will have better WRs in the pros, but will still struggle as many rookie QBs do.

32. M. Leinart-AZ-He has value if you have the oft injured Warner. The Cards have tried to hand him the job, but he chooses to party with high school girls in his hot tub instead.

33. B. Quinn-Clev-Anderson is not a sure thing, and his concussion could open the door for Quinn to step in and run this talented offense.

34. R. Grossman-Chi-Chances are he will start a few games this season.

35. C. Redman-Atl-Will regain the job if Ryan struggles more than expected.

36. T. Smith-Balt-Likely starter who will keep the seat warm until Flacco is ready.

37. J. Flacco-Balt-Will start when team thinks he's ready.

38. JP Losman-Buf

39. A. Smith-SF

40. K. Boller-Balt

41. C. Simms-TB-Expected to be cut by TB, pay attention to where he ends up, he could be a fit in Chicago, or may settle for a backup job (Dal, NE, NYG)

2008 Fantasy Football Preview - Tight Ends

Here are Tony's rankings for TEs;

1. J. Witten-Dal-T.O. draws the double teams and Witten was the most targeted Dallas receiver last year, no health concerns makes him my top TE.

2. C. Cooley-Wash-New coach Jim Zorn brings a TE friendly offense to Washington, and his 3 yr avg 66/765/7 should improve.

3. A. Gates-SD-He is the #1 TE if healthy, but for where you need to draft him, I'm not taking that chance. His numbers dropped last year after the arrival of Chambers and the emergence of V. Jackson. If you can get him after the 5th round he is a great value, but not in the 3rd or 4th.

4. T. Gonzalez-KC-He is getting older but has still been consistent, He is the #1 receiving option, playing with a young QB, more valuable in PPR leagues.

5. K. Winslow-Clev-The "Soldier" has had 2 consistent seasons but had yet another knee surgery in the offseason, and is an injury risk every week. High upside, but draft at your own risk.

6. J. Shockey-NO-Shockey will be reunited with former OC Sean Payton, and should be out to show the Giants that he is still a top TE. Should benefit from Colston drawing double teams. Also an injury risk, returning from a broken leg.

7. Da. Clark-Ind-Clark had a huge season last year in the absence of M. Harrison. If Harrison is back I see Clark returning to his previous #'s about 35/400/4.

8. T. Heap-Balt-He is on the injury list every week, but until last year rarely missed a game. Cam Cameron's offense is TE friendly. If you miss out on the top 7 TEs Heap is not a bad option.

9. O. Daniels-Hou-He was a major benefactor of Andre Johnson's injury last year making 63 recs, but still only scored 3 TDs, he is the #2 option behind Johnson and should be a top 10 TE.

10. V. Davis-SF-2 years of hype and 2 years of disappointment, he is a freakish athlete, but runs poor routes and drops a lot of passes. Mike Martz comes to SF, he has never relied heavily on the TE but has never had an athlete like Davis. He was the #3 TE last season during the fantasy playoff weeks, while S. Hill started for SF.

11. H. Miller-Pit-Miller posted career highs in recs/yds/TDs. He has averaged 6 TDs in the last 3 seasons.

12. T. Scheffler-Den-A favorite target of Cutler, who should see a lot of targets early with Marshall missing the first 3 games due to suspension.

13. G. Olsen-Chi-Athletic TE, who should see more targets this season, due to the Bears lack of quality WRs. The downside is he spilts time with Desmond Clark.

14. A. Crumpler-Ten-Crumpler is joining a new team, but a team that has little in ways of wr, so Young may rely heavily on him.

15. LJ Smith-Phi-Injured last season, could be a good value if he can return to his 55/650/4 #'s from 05-06.

16. B. Watson-NE-Another athletic TE, who could put up monster #'s if he was on another team. the Pats just spread the ball around too much to rely on him, and Moss gets a lot of the red zone chances, not to mention all the TDs LB Vrabel steals from the offense.

17. K. Boss-NYG-Great hands, will feel the pressure of justifying the Giants trade of Shockey.

18. B. Utecht-The Bengals have not had a receiving TE in awhile, he should get the balls that normally went to the departed #3 wr C. Henry.

19. Z. Miller-Oak-Had 44 recs as a rookie, young QB Russell will rely on Miller like he did in the last 2 games of 2007 (16 targets, 11 recs.)

20. D. Lee-GB-Was a surprise last year, I'm not sure what to expect from him as Rodgers takes over.

21. M. Lewis-Jax-Another one of these young athletic TEs, but he plays for a run first team.

22. R. McMichael-Stl-Had his worst season last year, and may be past his prime.

23. D. Keller-NYJ-Rookie TE is more of a WR, with Favre under center the Jets could throw a lot more this season.

2008 Fantasy Football Preview - Defense/ST

Here is Tony's D/ST rankings;

1. San Diego-Strong in every category

2. Chicago-Not as good as 2 years ago, but Hester alone is worth the pick.

3. Dallas-Demarcus Ware keeps getting better, a strong secondary and Adam "rain man" Jones in the return game.

4. Minnesota-Too bad you don't get fantasy points for stopping the run, J. Allen should help increase sack total.

5. NY Giants-Even without Strahan the sacks should keep coming in bunches, secondary should be improved with the addition of Philips.

6. New England-Despite age and secondary losses, Pats have the easiest schedule and the offense should force opponents to play from behind most weeks.

7. Green Bay-Solid LBs and secondary, division opponents are weak.

8. Seattle-Quick, athletic D strong in all categories.

9. Indy-See Seattle, gets Freeney back from injury.

10. Jacksonville-Drafted two pass rushers, who should benefit from strong secondary. MOJO Drew returns kicks.

11. Pittsburgh-Always a strong unit

12. Tennessee-5th best D in ypg last season.

13. Philadelphia-Maybe a little disappointed when they realize Samuels isn't a cover corner.

14. Baltimore-Getting older but still a solid unit.

15. Washington-Taylor brings a much needed pass rush to a strong unit.

Fraud Alert!

This is a notice to any of my readers/visitors;

DON"T order any tickets from Ticketsmyway.com, The website is a complete fraud, they cancel your order a few weeks before your event, they promise you a refund, which you never get. Their policies say that even if they give you a refund they will keep 45% of your total order. All calls, emails and letters go unanswered. Some online complaints even said that after contacting their credit card company about the fraud, they were then sued in Nevada state court for violating their policies against refunds. There are over 4000 complaints made against this company on line, and with the Nevada FBI office and Better Business Bureau. I hate ticket agencies and I hate them even more after dealing with this place.

2008 Fantasy Fooball Preview - Kickers

Here are Tony's Kicker Ratings;

1. S. Graham-Cin-Very consistent, 3 year avg. of 125 points, Cinci offense should be on the rebound this season.

2. J. Brown-Stl-FA from Seattle moves inside to the Edward Jones Dome, where Brown has only missed one career FG. Brown made four 50+ yd (bonus pts) FGs last season. Rams O should stall enough to give Brown a lot of 3 point chances.

3. R. Bironas-Tenn-If anybody plays for a team that can't score TDs its this guy. He attempted the most FGs last season 39, he attempted at least 2 FGs in 13 games last season. He also had an 8 FG game.

4. N. Folk-Dal-A lot of people's #1 K this season, He plays for a great offense but its hard to trust him after only 1 year and 2 of his misses last year were from under 29 yds.

5. M. Crosby-GB-The rookie lead the K's in scoring last season and he kicked in cold GB, with Favre out, Crosby could get more FG chances. Same trust issues as Folk.

6. S. Gostkowski-NE-scored a ton of PATs, and would be ranked higher if the Pats actually kicked FGs instead of going for it on 4th and 8. Still a solid pick.

7. A. Vinatieri-Ind-He struggled last season, but he plays for a high scoring offense, and kicks in what should be a mostly inside Lucas Oil stadium this year.

8. N. Kaeding-SD-3 yr avg of 122 pts, 5 games with 3+ FGs

9. R. Gould-Chi-2 straight solid seasons for a team that scores more on special teams than on offense, Dec. games in the windy city are a concern though.

10. P Dawson-Clev-Offense should be better than last season.

11. J. Scobee-Jax-Missed 8 games but still had 62 pts, (7.75 per game) 124 full season pace.

12. K. Brown-Hou-Another offense on the rise?

13. R. Longwell-Min-Indoor kicker for a one dimensional offense, should get a lot of chances.

14. N. Rackers-AZ-122 pt 3 yr avg, three 50+ yd FGs last season.

15. M. Nugent-NYJ-Jets offense has new O line and QB, should get more chances, Dec. wind in Jersey is tough to kick in though.

Holliday to Sox?

Could Rockies left fielder, Matt Holliday be on the Boston Red Sox radar? Joel Sherman of the the NY Post suggests that the Rockies will not trade Matt Holliday before the July 31st deadline knowing they can get more value in the off-season. The Rockies would be able to pick from the Red Sox deep farm system, getting the most value for a player they won't be able to sign after he becomes a free agent after the 2009 season. Sherman also speculates that trading for Matt Holliday will allow the Sox to decline the 20 million dollar option on current LF Manny Ramirez.

Any Red Sox deals made before the deadline will hinge on the health of DH David Ortiz and how his wrist holds up during his minor league stint that should last about week. According to ESPN's Peter Gammons, The Braves have offered Free Agent to be 1B Mark Teixeira for 1B Kevin Youkilis and P Craig Hansen. If the Red Sox were to make this trade they would then be faced with having Tex as a rental player or resigning him to a monster deal in the off-season likely leaving little money for a run at Holliday. Whereas, Youk is under Red Sox control until 2010 and thus is a cheaper option who is a strong defensive player at both 1b and 3b.

And what about Barry? He has been linked to the D-Backs, who deny having an interest. He has been linked to the Red Sox should the Ortiz injury be more serious, there is even rumors that the Red Sox had Bonds in for a secret workout at Fenway, how on earth would the Red Sox be able to sneak Bonds into Fenway/Boston without anyone knowing? The Red Sox have denied all interest, however I wonder if Bonds still feels that Boston is a town of racists, as he is quoted as saying in the Book "Game of Shadows." Then with the injury to Moises Alou, the Mets have become an option, The Mets have denied all interest, but can we honestly believe anything GM Omar Minaya says after how he handled/stabbed Willie Randolph in the back? Then there are the most likely suitors, the Yankees, possibly without Hideki Matsui for the rest of the season and Johnny Damon for an extended period, could turn to Bonds who could come in as a DH and take aim at the short porch in Yankee Stadiums right field. If Bonds plays anywhere the Yankees seem to be his only chance.

Tony's NBA Lottery Mock Draft

Mock 2008 NBA Draft Lottery Picks 1-13

1. PG Derrick Rose Chicago

2. PF Michael Beasley Miami

3. SG OJ Mayo Minnesota

4. PG Eric Gordon Seattle

5. PF Kevin Love Memphis

6. SF Danilo Galinari New York

7. C Brook Lopez LA Clippers

8. PG Russell Westbrook Milwaukee

9. PF Anthony Randolph Charlotte

10. Joe Alexander New Jersey

11. Robin Lopez Indiana

12. PG Jerryd Bayless Sacramento

13. PG DJ Augustin Portland

Red Sox Fans vs. Pink Hats

This debate is discussed on Boston.com; http://www.boston.com/lifestyle/fashion/articles/2008/06/26/why_is_this_pink_hat_so_hated/

My reaction: Are you kidding me? Not only are Boston sports fans the most obnoxious and hypocritical fans I have ever encountered, but now they are dictating who within their own city can be a fan of their teams and who the "real" fans are. Please, all these Boston fans complain about how there are all these "new/bandwagon" fans now that their teams are winning, that these fans haven't suffered through the hard times. Ok, I can see that argument if you are over 40 but not if your in your 20's, but regardless who gives these "long suffering" fans the right to anoint true fandom? I don't hear the Red Sox, Patriots and after this season the Celtics complaining when they are selling out their games or selling merchandise in all colors of the rainbow, including pink. They are just happy that people are coming to the games because when the Patriots were 1-15, nobody wanted to be a fan, ask some old New Englanders who they root for in the NFL and they will tell you the Giants, because the Patriots were just too deplorable to watch. Just last year, you couldn't give away tickets to a Celtics game, but bring in Ray Allen and KG and the Celtics are everybody's team again. And the Red Sox, until they finally won in 2004, everyone moped around that they always blew it, wait til next year was always the expected slogan. But now that Boston has won some championships and fans can't play the "long suffering" card anymore, they need something else to complain about, and that's who the "real" fans are and who the "poseurs" are. I'll tell you what, we will find out who the "real" fans are when the Patriots only win 5 games, or the Celtics look like they did last year, or when you go to a Sox game in Sept like in 2006 and nobody is there. And I can hear the typical Boston fan yelling out impossible, the Boston teams will never lose again, and that is the very statement that proves my point of their delusion, arrogance and sense of self entitlement.

NFC West Draft Review

Cardinals

They filled a need with CB Rodgers-Cromartie, who is fast and athletic, but I'm not sure I buy the hype on this small school standout who will look to cover NFL caliber WRs. I think the Cards could have gone a safer route by taking Talib or Cason. I like the picks of DE C. Campbell and WR E. Doucet, both players fell in the draft but were great values. Grade: Average

Rams

Some thought the Rams should have taken DT Glenn Dorsey, but the Rams took a DT last year in the 1st round (Adam Carriker) and taking Long should help free up L. Little on the other end. The Rams took a couple of receivers to help replace the departed Issac Bruce. CB Justin King was a top recruit at Penn State, but never really lived up to hype, great athlete, but can he be a great football player? Grade: Average

49ers

DT Kentwan Balmer fell to the Niners who were happy to get him and envision has a NG that could plug up the middle freeing ILB Patrick Willis to make plays. DB Reggie Smith is an athletic player who can contribute at CB or S. Grade: Average

Seahawks

DE Lawrence Jackson isn't a bad pick, but the Seahawks had bigger needs then picking a third DE? They could have taken Balmer or Merling who were higher rated DLs. DT Red Bryant (328) will be a BIG help in the run D. You have to love FB Owen Schmitt as the replacement for Mack Strong. Grade: Average

NFC South Draft Review

Falcons
QB Matt Ryan was considered the best QB in the draft which was a need with Ron Mexico behind bars, but QB Brian Brohm wasn't rated that far below and could have been taken in the 2nd round, allowing the Falcons to have taken DT Glenn Dorsey. The Falcons traded up to get oft injured OL Sam Baker, well below the level of the other 1st round OTs. LB Curtis Lofton may end up being there best pick besides Ryan. The rest of their draft was uninspiring. Grade: Average

Panthers
RB Jonathan Stewart, if healthy from a nagging toe injury could be the best all around back in this year's class. OT Jeff Otah fills a big hole. DB Charles Godfrey could start right away at S and high energy LB Dan Connor was a steal in the 3rd. 4 starters in first four picks. Grade: Solid

Saints
The Saints were trying to trade up to #5 to get DT Sedrick Ellis and were able to trade up an get him at 7. Saints also took another DT in the 5th DeMario Pressley who underachieved in college but has good potential. Grade: Average

Bucs
Cb Aqib Talib is a physical corner who has a shot to beat out Phillip Buchanon. Speedy WR Dexter Jackson could emerge as the deep threat they thought they had in Michael Clayton, to play opposite Joey Galloway. Geno Hayes is a small speedy LB form Florida St. remind you of anyone? He could be the heir apparent to the aging Derrick Brooks. Grade: Average

BIG Baby Loses His Shirt?

Glenn "Big Baby" Davis went topless during yesterday's championship parade, maybe he was hoping to join Dan Marino, as a spokesman for Slimfast. Maybe the mid 70's temperatures were just too sweltering for a man of his girth. Shouldn't his goal be to get on the court in non mop up duty?

NFC North Draft Review

Bears
Addressed their biggest concern with OT Chris Williams. 2nd round pick RB Matt Forte looks even more important now with the release of Cedric Benson, although a more experienced veteran could be brought in closer to the season's start. Physical S Craig Steltz will be a good fit for the Bears D especially if Mike Brown gets injured again. Grade: Average

Lions
By passing on RBs in the first round they were able to draft 200o yd rusher Kevin Smith (above)in the 3rd (Another 2000 yard college back did pretty well in Detroit... Barry Somebody) Taking Smith allowed the Lions to pick up OT Gosder Cherilus, and LB Jordon Dizon whom should both start right away. I think the Lions second 3rd round pick DT Andre Fluellen could surprise as he will have the opportunity to replace DT Shaun Rogers. 4 possible starters at the top of their draft. Grade: Solid

Packers
QB Brian Brohm in the 2nd was a great value, but Rodgers is the Packers QB of the future. WR Jordy Nelson will be buried behind Driver, Jennings, J. Jones. None of their picks will make an impact, but like the Colts the Packers didn't have too many holes to fill. Grade: Average

Vikings
Not much of a draft because of the trade for DE Jared Allen. S Tyrell Johnson will add depth at safety. John David Booty could surprise, he battled some injuries while at USC, and could be a factor in the future. Grade: Average (If Allen is included, Solid)

NFC East Draft Review

Cowboys
RB Felix Jones had been called the better all around back from Arkansas when compared to McFadden and will be an upgrade over Julius Jones. CB Mike Jenkins was a good fit for a cover 2 defense but will be eased into action if Adam Jones is reinstated, at worst he is a strong upgrade over the departed Jacques Reeves. TE Martellus Bennett gives Romo a 6-6 target and he has better hands than Anthony Fasano did. The rest of the Cowboys picks are good depth picks. Grade: Solid

Giants
S Kenny Phillips (above) is another athletic safety from the U in the mold of Ed Reed, and Sean Taylor. The Giants addressed some weaknesses by selecting 2 corners and 2 linebackers. I'm not so sure about the Mario Manningham pick, at best you bring him in to be the #4 WR, is he worth the character risk? Andre Woodson? Someone from Kentucky must be in the Giants front office, Woodson and Lorenzan both played for the Wildcats. Grade: Average

Eagles
Added depth to the D-Line with Trevor Laws. Could WR DeSean Jackson be the new T.O. in Philly? Jackson fell to the 2nd round for being undersized in stature (5-9, 169) and having an enormous ego and me first attitude. Grade: Average

Redskins
QB Jason Campbell has to be excited about new coach Jim Zorn bringing his pass happy offense to DC. 3 tall receivers; Devin Thomas, Fred Davis and Malcolm Kelly with the first 3 picks means Campbell is going to be throwing a lot of passes this season. QB Colt Brennan is a questionable pick, due to arm strength and injury history. What ever happened to former record setting Hawaii QB Timmy Chang? oh yeah he is the back up QB for the Hamilton Tiger-Cats. Brennan will have a hard time getting into Canada with his prior felony convictions. Grade: Solid

AFC West Draft Review

Broncos

OT Ryan Clady will fill a need, WR Eddie Royal will contribute more in the return game. With the release of RB Travis Henry, RB Ryan Torrain may have a shot to be another one of the out of nowhere 1000 yards rushers for the Broncos, if he can beat out Selvin Young. FB Peyton Hillis is swiss army back that you like on your team. Grade: Average

Chiefs

May go down as the best draft of the year, DT Glenn Dorsey, OL Branden Albert, CB Brandon Flowers and RB Jamaal Charles should all have an immediate impacts. Grade: Solid

Raiders

Not much to show besides McFadden (above) who they need to make an immediate impact and take pressure off QB JaMarcus Russell. They only had 4 picks, but were able to add CB DeAngelo Hall, not bad as a #2 corner. Grade: Average

Chargers

1st round pick CB Antoine Cason is a good fit for SD, he is a big corner who doesn't mind tackling and should man the nickel spot. Jacob Hester is a better version of Peyton Hillis but he is not a replacement for Michael Turner nor Lorenzo Neal. Look for RB Marcus Thomas to be the better fit for backup RB. Grade: Average

AFC South Draft Review

Texans
OT was a need they addressed by trading down and taking Duane Brown, but he is not on the same level as some of the OTs taken earlier in the 1st round. The rest of the Texans picks come with question marks. Steve Slaton is not much of an answer at RB. Grade: Poor

Colts
One of the few teams in the NFL who really had the luxury of drafting for depth. None of the picks should crack the starting lineup. Grade: Average

Jaguars
Get to the QB, especially league rival Peyton Manning, the Jags used their first 2 picks on SEC pass rushers, Derrick Harvey (above) and Quentin Groves. They addressed WR in free agency with Jerry Porter and a trade for Troy "Hands of Stone" Williamson. I give the Jags credit in making picks that help them match up better with AFC powers, the Colts and Patriots. Grade: Average

Titans
Needed to address their biggest need WR long before Lavelle Hawkins in the 4th. Why are they picking another RB? They have drafted LenDale White, Chris Henry, and now Chris Johnson high in the last 3 drafts, are they going to run the wing T, with Vince Young running the option, so he won't have to pass? Grade: Poor minus (the lowest you can get)

AFC North Draft Review

Ravens
QB Joe Flacco, has the size, the skills, but can he do it at the NFL level, the Ravens need to hope he can make the jump from 1AA quickly. RB Ray Rice is an upgrade over the departed Musa Smith and Mike Anderson as the backup RB. The Ravens continue to look to the U, taking LB Tavares Gooden, I have a feeling Ray Lewis and Ed Reed will take him under their wing in the film room and make him better than expected. S Tom Zbikowski, has name recognition, he manages to make an impact while lacking speed and being a poor tackler. Another S Haruki Nakamura, made a lot of plays in college but may be too small (5-10, 190) to be anything more than a special teamer. Grade: Average

Bengals
Filled a huge hole with LB Keith Rivers, the Bengals had so many injuries at LB last year. They addressed their real (Ocho Cinco holdout, Henry release) and potential problems (Housh upset)at WR by drafting Jerome Simpson, Andre Caldwell and big target (6-6) Mario Urrutia. Bengals also drafted S Corey Lynch who blocked the FG for App. St, in the upset of Michigan last season, he should contribute on special teams. Grade: Solid

Browns
With no first day pick, the Browns did pretty well getting ILB Beau Bell who will contribute as a backup this season. The Browns also got TE Martin Rucker (6-5, 248) as insurance for the oft injured, motorcycling soldier Kellen Winslow, with the Browns offense continuing to improve especially in the passing game, Rucker could help create some mismatches with his speed and height. Grade: Average

Steelers
They could have used some O-line help but RB Mendenhall (above) will help lessen Willie Parker's work load. WR Limas Sweed is the "Big" WR that Big Ben has been asking for. Not really sure about the Dennis Dixon pick, he is too small to be an NFL QB and is coming off a torn ACL, one would think they could have signed him after the draft. The Steelers didn't address the O or D Lines and while Mendenhall and Sweed are nice picks they won't make an immediate impact unless of injury to one of the starters. Grade: Average

AFC East NFL Draft Review

AFC EAST

Bills

They addressed their biggest needs with CB Leodis McKelvin and WR James Hardy, who should both play right away. The Bills also drafted one of former NBA star Karl Malone's illegitimate kids, OT Demetrius Bell. Grade: Solid

Dolphins

The top of their draft couldn't have gone any better, Parcells got 3 pre-draft 1st round talents in the first 3 rounds. OT Jake Long, DE Phillip Merling and QB Chad Henne. If Henne would have been healthy his senior season he would have been drafted higher than the 3rd. Grade: Solid

Patriots

While LB Jerod Mayo is a great fit for the Patriots with his ability to play inside or outside, it seems that the normally draft savvy Patriots made a huge blunder by trading down and allowing the Bengals to take LB Keith Rivers, the player many speculated the Patriots wanted, but were trying to save some money with the trade and were forced to choose Mayo a late 1st/early 2nd round talent at #10! They chose another small CB in Terrence Wheatley, which is the problem with Ellis Hobbs, not being able to cover taller WR's (Burress in the Super Bowl) Patriots also reached for QB Kevin O'Connell whom they could have taken much later. The players picked are good guys for the Patriots, but it was an unusual draft for the Patriots who didn't get good value for their picks by trading down instead they overdrafted and therefore will overpay the guys they wanted. Grade: Average (Poor for any other team)

Jets

Most of the Jets work was done in Free Agency, addressing the O-line. With only 2 first day picks LB Vernon Gholston (above) was a beast in college, and a workout warrior at the Combine the Jets can't afford to have him not pan out. The pick of TE Dustin Keller at the end of the 1st was interesting, in that he is a big WR, he isn't a good blocker, and has helped add to the offseason battle/headache TE Chris Baker is having over his contract status. None of their other picks look to be special. Grade: Poor

Randolph Fired!

Mets.com and Cbssportsline.com are reporting that despite the Mets 9-6 win over the Angels last night, manager Willie Randolph, pitching coach Rick Peterson and 1st base coach Tom Nieto were fired at 3:15 am EST. Randolph will be replaced by bench coach Charlie Manuel, AAA manager Ken Oberkfell and AAA pitching coach Dan Warthen will join the big league club. Strange that the move was made in the middle of the night, nearly 2 hours after the Mets had won. A press conference is scheduled for 5pm EST at Angels Stadium.

Does Willie Deserve To Go?

Mets manager Willie Randolph has been under much scrutiny the past few weeks, dating back to when the Mets swept the Yankees at Yankee Stadium only to get swept by the Braves and struggle with the Rockies to complete the road trip. Randolph is the manager and needs to accept blame for the team that underachieves, but how much can he really do? The Mets have been riddled with injuries this season, Alou, Church, Pagan, Pedro, El Duque, Castro, Schneider, and Castillo have all missed significant time this season, and the Mets have been playing with the equivalent of minor league corner ofs (Nixon, Evans, Tatis, Aguila.) Also it needs to be noted that the Mets bullpen is absolutely deplorable! Until recently the only solid arm was Wagner. But getting from the starters to Wagner has been an adventure, just last week the Mets bullpen blew a game for John Maine, where he left a 5-1 lead only to see the pen blow it, Santana left with a 4-0 lead after 7 and the pen couldn't hold the lead. I do feel that Randolph does overuse his relievers constantly having many of his relievers pitch to 1 or 2 batters, which keeps there pitch counts low but having them warm up everyday is not good for them either. I think Minaya wants to keep Randolph around because if he does fire him and the new manager isn't successful then Minaya is the next to blame for building this team. If Minaya can keep Randolph around until the end of the season, and the Mets continue to struggle it is more likely the Mets would replace the manager and not the GM in the offseason. Besides bringing in a new manager to a mostly veteran club with many egos, could lead to an adjustment period for the players, and time is not something the Mets have, where keeping Randolph around, and hoping the Mets can get healthy and go on a hot streak might be the better plan. The Mets have a lot of money tied up in this team and can't afford to head into Citi Field next year with a losing team, but I don't think firing Randolph will solve their problems.

Is Becky Hammon A Traitor?

Becky Hammon, a superstar point guard for the San Antonio Silver Stars of the WNBA finished 2nd in the leagues MVP voting last season, but was not invited to the Team USA tryouts, when the list of 23 players was announced. She later got an invite when the list was increased to 30 players but was told she had no legitimate shot of making the team. Hammond like many other WNBA players, play overseas for most of the year, because of the better pay, Hammond has a 4 year, 2 million dollar contract (500,000 per season) with a Russian team. In many of these overseas leagues there is a maximum number American players who are allowed, so many countries will grant Americans citizenship (Diana Taurasi, Italy, and Sue Bird, Israel, etc.) Russia granted Hammond expedited citizenship and invited her to play for the Russian Olympic team. Hammond citing that the US team did not want her agreed she would play for Russia, and since has been criticized by some other players and coaches for being a traitor. The US team doesn't want her why can't she go play somewhere else, the one part I disagree with is that she has no ties to Russia, whereas Taurasi and Bird do have family ties to the countries they hold citizenship in. (Taurasi and Bird will both play for the US team) The US has granted citizenship to African runners to help the US strengthen their chances in long distance running, who have no ties to the US. It just goes to show that the Olympics are more about winning medals and money than really caring which country the athletes are competing for. Maybe the US women's team is worried about Russia who is ranked #3 in the world picking up one of the best PGs in the world? Or that with her underdog story of undrafted player to league superstar and good looks, she is a marketing dream that the US team will not be able to capitalize on.

NBA Finals Thoughts After Game 5

Some observations on the series after watching Game 5 last night; The Celtics have been battling some injuries to Pierce (knee), Perkins (shoulder) and Rondo (ankle) but still managed to overcome a 20 plus point deficit in Games 4 and 5, they weren't able to get the win in Game 5 but it shows how poor the Lakers D has been. In Game 5 the Lakers were fouling the Celtics at half court while in the penalty? There was a play where Pierce ran about 4 steps through the lane and Jordan Farmar, instead of stepping up and trying to take a charge stuck his arm out to commit the foul allowing Pierce to make the basket. The announcers said Farmar should be embarrassed by his lack of defensive play, only to later say that the Lakers having Farmar in the game was for his strong defense? I will tell you who plays some defense, its James Posey and Eddie House, those guys hustle and are guys you want playing on your team. Perkins missing Game 5, really showed how important he is to the Celts D, as Pau Gasol had his first big game of the series. If Perkins misses Games 6 and/0r 7 the Celts could be in trouble. What was with Rondo driving to the hoop and instead of taking the uncontested layup throwing it out for the 3 point shot? For the second straight game announcer Jeff Van Gundy has been calling players "knife fighters" he said Kobe and Posey were "knife fighters" he said these are the guys you want on your team who will do anything to win. ok, I see what he means but I can't imagine that David Stern is too pleased with one of his leagues superstars (one who has had some questionable off court activity) being compared to a "knife fighter" during national telecasts. Paul Pierce has shown during this playoff series that he can carry his team. Why does KG insist on taking jump shots and passing the ball on rebounds instead of going strong to the hoop? The Celtics have only lost once at home in the playoffs (Pistons) but they need to be healthy and need to hope Kobe continues to struggle or there could be a big problem. One last thing, after it was discovered that the guy in the American Bandstand video wearing the Gino t-shirt had passed away 14 years ago, why hasn't his family filed a trademark to stop all the bootleg t-shirts being made with his likeness? For that matter I'm surprised Dick Clark has allowed the American Bandstand footage to be shown at Celtics games.

Game 6 is Tues

Game 7 is Thurs (if necessary)

Friday Night Lights "May The Best Man Win"

In the Season 2 finale, Smash tries to salvage his college plans, by making some calls to schools who had shown interest in him before he committed to TMU. Street's waitress one night stand, Erin shows up at Buddy's car lot and tells Street, that she is pregnant! Tami runs in to her old boyfriend, Mo, who is a big real estate mogul, who doesn't really have a good history with Coach Taylor. Mo invites Tami and Coach to a fundraiser at the hospital. Street seems happy that the Erin is pregnant because he was told this couldn't happen, he thinks its a miracle. Riggans is doing a sports radio show on the Christian radio station. Smash shows up at Alabama to speak with the coach, and is told his scholarship went to another player and there is no room for him there. Landry tells Saracen that him and Tyra got back together. Smash is talking to someone from the Arena Football League as an alternative to college, the guy tells him he can make 42,000 for the season. Mo tells Coach Taylor and Tami he will be at the game on Friday. Street asks Coach Taylor for some answers to his situation and Coach Taylor tells him that a relationship needs to have trust and honesty (very true!) A radio caller asks Riggans what he thinks of the Smash situation, and he says he thinks its ok to hit someone, which creates a little controversy. Coach Taylor sets up a meeting for Smash with Whitmore, a lowly college that is still willing to offer him a scholarship. The Panthers are having an easy time with their opponent South Pines, Landry comes into catch a TE screen for a TD. Taylor looks up into the stands and sees Mo holding, baby Gracie. Then Mo gives Coach a hard time about letting South Pines score as time expired. Smash accepts the scholarship from Whitmore. Tami and Coach Taylor go to dinner with Mo, Coach and Mo get into a big brawl and Tami leaves. Lyla goes to meet Chris' family, and is disappointed when he rejects her, making a move on him (Riggans would have not made that mistake!) So either Chris' extreme religiousness dooms him with Lyla or he is gay. Smash is still upset that he lost out on the big schools, but his momma tells him that he is still going to college, he is going to get an education and he will be the star on that team. Street tells Erin how he feels about her and the baby, and we are left with a cliff hanger for Season 3. FNL has been picked up for a third season that will first air on Direct TV then will be later shown on NBC.

2008 Mock Draft -1st Round

Here is Tony's Mock Draft for the 1st Round, with some comments along the way;

1. Miami
OT Jake Long-The deal is already done.

2. St. Louis
DE Chris Long-There is a lot of talk today that DT Glenn Dorsey is their man, but I think that may be the Rams trying to entice the Saints to trade up. The Rams went DT (Adam Carriker) last year, so it seems more likely that they add Long to play opposite L. Little.

3. Atlanta
DT Glenn Dorsey-Dorsey will make more of an immediate impact then say QB Matt Ryan would, and it seems teams like the Falcons, Dolphins and Chiefs may be content to wait until the 2nd round to grab a QB.

4. Oakland
RB Darren McFadden-They have a stable of backs with Fargas, Rhodes, Jordan and M. Bush but with Long and Dorsey gone Oakland will take the best available guy in D-Mac.

5. Kansas City
DT Sedrick Ellis-With both Longs gone by this point KC will trade picks with the Saints (10), who didn't move up to get Dorsey, and take Ellis who will reunite with his old USC coach Ed Orgeron who is now the Saints D-Line coach.

6. NY Jets
LB/DE Vernon Gholston-With McFadden gone, the Jets will turn to this beast, i can see an incredible hulk themed poster already. I just hope that he doesn't run into any problems under the NFL's substance abuse program.

7. New England
LB Keith Rivers-The Patriots never do what you think they will in the draft, but they have a massive need in the secondary and at LB. It seems too early for them to take a DB and there is speculation of Ty Law returning before camp starts.

8. Baltimore
QB Matt Ryan-With the sudden retirement of Steve McNair, the Ravens are left with Boller and Smith, so Ryan makes sense here, I think he has great intangibles and found a way to win at BC while surrounded by inferior talent.

9. Cincinnati
OT Ryan Clady

10. New Orleans
OG/OT Brandon Albert-This will be the pick that KC will get in the trade with NO and they will still get what they want in Albert. If the Saints keep this pick they may trade it to NYG for Shockey.

11. Buffalo
CB Leodis McKelvin-They would love if Rivers fell this far, but McKelvin will help in the secondary and the return game.

12. Denver
DE Derrick Harvey

13. Carolina
OT Jeff Otah

14. Chicago
OT Chris Williams-I could also see Chicago going with Rashard Mendenhall to replace waste of space RB Ced Benson.

15. Detroit
RB Rashard Mendenhall-He would be a good replacement for the departed Kevin Jones, If the Bears snag him look for the Lions to grab CB Mike Jenkins who would fit the Lions cover 2 scheme.

16. Arizona
CB Aqib Talib-Drafting Talib would allow the Cards to move Rolle from nickel to FS.

17. Kansas City
CB Domonique Rodgers-Cromartie-This is the pick KC got from the Vikings in the Jared Allen trade. I'm not buying the hype on this guy, who was a nobody until he put Cromartie on the end of his name, but he seems like the type of draft mistake KC would make. They should think about using this pick on QB Brian Brohm.

18. Houston
RB Jonathan Stewart-The Texans need a RB they can rely on, Ahman (oh my knee) Green and (Fat) Ron Dayne are not cutting it. Stewart will give them a total package back, that if he can remain healthy could be a steal at the 18th pick.

19. Philadelphia
WR Devin Thomas-Eagles have been trying to find a tall WR for years.

20. Tampa Bay
CB Mike Jenkins-Perfect fit for Tampa's cover 2 scheme, he is tough against the run.

21. Washington
DE Phillip Merling-The Skins sent everyone in the organization except the water boy to this guys last minute workout today. Skins could trade this pick to the Dolphins for Jason Taylor or Bengals for Chad Johnson.

22. Dallas
RB Felix Jones-Jerry Jones is an Arkansas alum and many think F. Jones may end up having a more productive NFL career then his former Arkansas teammate D-Mac.

23. Pittsburgh
OT Gosder Cherilus-Pitt need some help on the line after losing OG Faneca, and BC lineman have a pretty good track record for succes in the NFL.

24. Tennessee
WR DeSean Jackson-He will make an immediate impact in the return game and can't be any worse then what they have in the passing game. But the Titans get rid of Pacman only to bring in another problem child?

25. Seattle
TE Fred Davis-Seahawks need an athletic pass catching TE, and Davis is a former WR converted to TE. Seattle may also try to trade this pick to the Giants for Shockey.

26. Jacksonville
DE Calais Campbell-Built in the same mold as Jason Taylor but a little taller and heavier.

27. San Diego
S Kenny Phillips

28. Dallas
WR Limas Sweed-Keeps Sweed in Texas and allows the Cowboys to keep resigned WR Crayton in the slot where he is most dangerous. WR Malcom Kelly is also an option, but some inmaturity issues and complaints about his running surface will likely knock him out of the first round.

29. San Francisco
ILB Jared Mayo-Put him alongside Willis and the Niners are set in the middle.

30. Green Bay
QB Brian Brohm-I think the Packers trade this pick to which ever team (Mia, Atl, KC) wants to move up and grab Brohm.

31. NY Giants
LB Dan Connor-Losses in free agency at LB could be remedied by picking Connor. The Giants would love if Safety K. Phillips fell to them to replace G. Wilson, and CB/S Reggie Smith could be an option as well.

2008 Fantasy Baseball Preview

Sorry this was posted so late, but too many people in my leagues read my blog, and I couldn't give away all my secrets until after my last draft, so I hope this information will be able to help those who still need to draft, or may give you some ideas of players to target in early season trades or on the waiver wire.

I'll try and give you some guys I like to be picked after the top guys, obviously if you can get a top guy you should, but you will need backups, etc. Numbers are my ranks. Also my rankings are based on Head to Head points leagues.

Catcher

6. K Johjima Sea-Solid stats after the big name catchers, also a bonus if your league rewards points for how many guys he throws out trying to steal.

7. B. Molina SF-He will bat cleanup for San Fran but not much around him.

23. Dionner Navarro-TB-I like him as a backup C, you should be able to take him with the last pick or get him on the FA list

First Base

4. M. Texiera-Atl Good 2nd round pick, I think he will have a monster year in Atl,as he seeks a new contract.

9. N. Swisher-ChiW-He had an off year last year, but goes to Chi, which is a better park, also OF eligible.

14. J. Loney-LAD good potential for 300/30/90, good backup pick

15. A. LaRoche-Pit-Great 2nd half the last 2 years if he can put together a full season, he will be a mid to late round steal.

19. R. Garko-Clev-I really like him as a sleeper in a great lineup, he loses some starts when the Indians play Martinez at first though.

Second Base

9. R. Weeks-Milw-Major injury risk and low BA, but has 30/30 potential, and this is the first year he has't had a surgery to recover from in the offeseason, although he is already dealing with a minor hand injury and has struck out 20 times this spring. High risk/high reward pick

18. M. Ellis-Oak-decent power if you need a backup.

21. T. Wigginton-Hou-25 HR power, low BA, but he is eligible at 1b,2b,3b, so you can plug him into your lineup alot of places when your starters are off in daily leagues.

Third Base

10. A. Beltre-Sea-Another great 2nd half guy, but good as a backup, power and SBs

12. A. Gordon-KC-Was supposed to be the next D. Wright, but struggled last year as a rookie, still has that potential.

13. H. Blalock-Tex-Finally had the shoulder surgery that robbed him of his power the last 2 years, a little risky, but if he can start hitting lefties, watch out

15. E. Encarnacion-Cin-LOVE him, sleeper pick of the draft. Power and speed potential, plays in a great hitters park. He batted over 330 in Aug and Sept last year, grab him!

16. J. Fields ChiW-Lots of power, 250 avg should play 3b or lf, however he my be sent to the minors if Joe Crede isn't traded or proves to be healty.

20. P. Feliz-Phi-Lots of power, low avg, goes from big SF park to small Philly park, could be good for 30 HRs.

Shortstop

Besides Rollins or Reyes, there is nothing I really like as a sleeper pick, You have to make sure you get atleast 1 of the top 10, I have them as Rollins, Reyes, H. Ramirez, Tejada, Jeter, M. Young, Tulowitski, C. Guillen, O. Cabrera, R. Furcal. If you pick in the top 5 I would definately try to grab Rollins or Reyes, I'm not trusting H-Ram this season as a #2 overall, let alone a first round pick, he had offseason shoulder surgery, he is going to bat leadoff, who is he going to drive in the P or the C. He will steal bases and hit for some power (He never showed any power when he was in the minors) but, I don't see him being able to repeat last season.

Outfield

I'm passing on Magglio Ordonez, as he will be this years Jermaine Dye, major drop off. Vlad Guerrero, has been one of the most consistent OF's of the last 5+ years, but he just looks so uncomfortable running around the field, maybe its b/c he admitted that one leg is longer then the other but to me he is getting to the age that he is a risky first rounder. I don't see E. Byrnes having another year like he did, he will still hit some homers, but he is not going to steal 50 bases. I don't like A. Soriano unless you get him in the third round or later.

I do like, in no specific order;

Abreu-NYY He looks healthy and he is in a FA year, not alot of power anymore, but can still steal some bases, hit for avg, and he will score alot in the Yankees lineup.

Swisher CHiW-see 1B above

B Hawpe-Col-good numbers, good park, alot of people forget about him with Helton, Holiday and Atkins in Colorado

R. Winn-SF-puts up numbers across the board, but good as a 5th of

J. Hermida-Fla-Big 2nd half, finally healthy (now dealing with a hamstring injury), somebody has got to hit in Fla, right?

A. Dunn-Big Power, great park, avg was around 270 last year, walks alot, but k's alot, can steal some bases

P. Burrell-Phi-Good power, small park, good lineup.

C. Duncan-Stl-Good power, missed some time last year still had 21 HRs, had 22, after call up in 06. Should bat 2nd, in front of Pujols.

R. Ibanez-Sea-Not a sexy pick, but he seems to put up good numbers each year, he will probably not reach last year's #s, and may be a little overrated, but if he was there late, he would be worth the pick.

J. Hamilton-Tex Traded from good park in Cin-to good park in Tex, he will be full time cf, 30/30 contender, but always has his drug demons to deal with.

F. Gutierrez-Clev-Deep sleeper, but good lineup could give you 20/20.

Closer

I would try to grab Paplebon, or Jenks they are worth the high pick.I would stay away from Valverde-Hou, he is going to a hitters park and a worse team; Cordero-Wash, his ERA and WHIP have gone up the last 3 seasons; and Nathan-Min, opps will be limited now that the team has lost Santana and Hunter.

I do like;

Gagne-Milw-Better situation for him then Boston, Brewers are expected to be a good team, and people will remember his disastorous time in Boston, and forget that he was solid in Texas, good pick late to be your 2nd/3rd closer.

Ryan-Tor-Back from injury people may forget about him, some risk.

M. Corpas-Col-Finished last season strong and was untouchable in the playoffs.

C. Marmol-ChiC-Middle Reliever, but great stats and may close, would be excellent late pick.

Starters

I like;

Verlander-Det I really think he will be a top 5 P this year, he has a great lineup and pitches in a big park.

Webb-Az The guy has a Cy Young and still doesn't get the recognition he should.

Haren-Az-Moves to NL after having a 3.07 ERA in the AL last season

Dice-K-Bos-Should be more comfortable this season, last season's expectations were obviously too much, but he should win atleast 15 and K 200.

B. Myers-Phi-Returns to starting, big Ks.

Aj Burnett-Tor-Healthy, FA year, k per inning in the 2nd half last year.

Maine/Perez-NYM Both could win 15 with the Mets lineup and both could top 175 in Ks

J. Francis-Col-really good, but when he's bad, he is really bad.

C. Young-SD-Awesome, missed some time last year, so he will be ranked lower then he should.

M. Cain-SF-lots of hard luck L's last year, should get some more W's even though SF stinks and he gets K's, and low ERA

A. Wainwright-Stl-#1 for Stl, great K potential, I still have nightmares of watching the knee buckling curve he K'd Beltran on in game 7 of the 2006 NLCS.

I. Snell-Pit Great source of Ks, has improved the last 2 seasons, people often forget him b/c he pitches in Pit.

P. Hughes-NYY Everyone talks about Joba, but Hughes was the better prospect, he was working on a no hitter in his 2nd start, and unlike Joba Hughes is in the rotation.

Buchholz/Lester-Bos Both young Ps could be the beneficiaries of good run support, I like Lester a little more b/c he will be in the rotation, whereas Buch may start the season in the pen or in the minors until a 5th starter is needed.

K. Escobar-Anh/N. Lowry-SF-Both out until May, but could be worth a DL spot

D. McGowan-Tor Young power P

R. Johnson-AZ May only last a short time but if you can get him late will have some big k games.

I don't trust Liriano, or Kazmir this year b/c of injury concerns. Liriano is coming back from Tommy John surgery, and watching his ultra violent delivery I don't want to take the chance on his elbow holding up. Kaz has been shut down in the past 2 seasons and already is having problems this year, although he owns the Red Sox.

This last bit of wisdom comes from my buddy Rich, before the 2006 season he told me to watch out for Carlos Pena, I watched and he did nothing, playing AAA ball for the Yankees and Redsox, but last year exploded with the Rays. So that led us to conclude that maybe he is just a great predictor of what will happen not this year, but next. Last year he picked Victor Zambrano, who was released by the Blue Jays early in the season, but is/was in camp with the Rockies this spring, pick him at your own risk. His pick for this year, so look to grab him next season, although I think he will be good this year is Adrain Beltre.