Dec 30, 2010

are you ready for the year to end?

Well, in less than 48 hrs 2010 will be history and 2011 will be here to create history.  I for one, am so glad '10 is ending..what a year!

A little list of under the skin burrs:

1.  Indians start year and lose Sizemore; then one of their prospects (a word I hate when associated w/Tribe) Santana finally shows some promise..than BAM!!! DL!! So what else is new?

2.  Indian's ownership, or lack thereof, make statement "they will pay if they will come".  Seems backwards right, but don't forget this.  In every sport but MLB, we are NOT small market team.  Please explain!

3.  CAVS rolling through season...hopes are sky-high...playoffs begin...then..cough-cough-cough, I'm choking, really bad.  Deer in headlight look overcomes certain BBplayer and impacts the health of his elbow!  WHAT?????  Leader-NOT! Chosen One-NOT HERE! MVP-twice and for WHAT?? Door swings open and there goes MBrown; DFerry; Big Z; Shaq Daddy; Lil Red-Head!  Holy Cow!!  Excuse me but I forgot the TV event of the year/decade/century/millennium-the return of Glee!!! Now it is December and team still not in Double Figures in wins, at least not yet!!

3.  Browns getting ready to finish season w/record of...wait...be prepared...this will surprise you...a robust 5-11!!  Another MVP year like BB team player, only in reverse.  QB controversy finally put to end, but comes back due to injury-goes away due to healing injury-comes back due to injury-goes away hopefully for last time!

4.  Browns owner improves team by putting more money into player development, but Austin Martin still cannot overcome Man U!!  When will RLerner learn?  He is tackling the wrong football!!

5.  TOSU has scandal tattooed all over program and cannot pay enough to get rid of it.  Receives advance from Sugar Bowl to cover expenses and this should be the last time a cover-up takes place...until game #6 in '11.

6.  Tribe owners finally start building for the future, unfortunately it has to snow for it to be a success!!  Again, owners of major team putting money into wrong sport they are owners of.  DUHHHHH!!!!!

In closing there are some great points and they should not go unnoticed...U of Akron-NATIONAL CHAMPIONS!!!!!  C'Town sport fans have some of the best writers to read; broadcasters to hear; pundits to follow; and above all...the stomach to always say..."wait until next year!"

And with that I will say, good-by 2010, hello 2011, and Next Year is just a few hours away, and this will all begin again!!!

Oct 11, 2010

what do the Browns have to do to NOT have a QB controversy??

Here we go, another season, another QB controversy.  Problem is, don't you have to have QB's to have a controversy?  Well, let us see if we, or rather the Browns do have one.

Did anyone out there REALLY think Jake Delhomme was the answer?  And for that matter, Senaca Wallace also?  Colt McCoy as a 3rd round pick is added into the mix also.  So, tell me, who is behind center #1, center #2, or center #3?  #1-Jake, give his due, looked good in preseason, and the first game.  Sure he had some questionable decisions, but at least the Browns were in the game, unlike many games last year.  Then he got hurt and was gone for the duration until Sunday's 2nd half.  I do sleep at time at a Holiday Inn and therefore, to my make-believe doctor's eye, he is still hurt and should not have been in.  But what else was available. But he was in for #2-Seneca.


Senaca did show that given some time to work with the 1's, he could move the team and did get a win.  Also, the team played hard and again was in the games until the final quarter.  Then HE got hurt on Sunday and back in comes Jake.  Was the game winnable?  With the way the D was performing, any kind of offense, yes ANY kind of offense could have given the team W#2.


This now brings us to #3-Colt.  When he was drafted, the Browns Brass stated he would not play this year, and would sit; practice and learn.  In other words, he was drafted, then "red-shirted"! Do the Browns waste his red-shirt year and let him play?  Do they stick to their pre-season guns and keep him on the sidelines?  Should the Browns get another QB? (at the time of the posting, Brett Ratliffe is apparently on his way to C'Town).  Not to mention the opponent next week!


So what do we, er Browns do?  Here is one fan's opinion.  Stick to the guns.  Keep Colt firmly planted on the bench.  Use Ratliffe; more Josh in the flash, and if needed put Jake on DL and get another QB after Pittspuke game.  Bye week gives needed time.  Face it, this was going to be a rebuilding year, NO MATTER WHAT!  The defense was front and center and it has been playing well better than last year.  Couple of broken plays and who knows what could have been.


Next year, go offense in draft.  Get the wideouts solely missing, sorry guys, but neither one of you are a threat to a team's D.  If Harrison is not used now, then when?  So hope Hadestry returns, but maybe another RB is needed.  And the final point, which now brings us full circle, what should be done at QB?  See, I told you what not to do to have a QB controversy, but it cannot be avoided.  


Starting QB #16 since '99 and counting!!

Oct 5, 2010

now what?

It has been a long while since I last posted.  New computer set-up; personal activities; and that damn thing called work!  But I have found a little time during a lunch break to dive back in and try to get caught up with a cornucopia of items to back into the swing of things.  So here I go.

Now that the NBA season is about to begin, do you feel like, that the past seven years really gave me (or us) nothing?  Or, is it all about the process and how it all went down, not to S. Beach, but all ended?  Funny, I miss the player not at all. I do miss the thought that we had the players that could have, and should have brought a championship to C'Town before the clown-car traveled to the state of 4-o'clock meal deals.  How can a group of players that had the best record in the NBA 2 straight yrs., not accomplish anything?  The CLUE is in the sentence, and I'll wait to see if you find it. Tick-tock; tick-tock; tick-tock...give up?  Can't find it?  Well of course you can't find it, because it is a word that is missing, not really the player.  The word missing is spelled T-E-A-M!  That's correct I never mentioned the word "team" because there wasn't a team.  Oh sure by all standards the CAVS were an NBA team, but in name only.  It was a collection of tremendous individual players who were brought together to form a team, that did not play as a team.  Sure they had great pre-game routines; had great games during the season; but when the time came to step it up, nothing! 

Okay, you say that the season meant something...oh really?  Meant what? seeding...home court...TV time?  So, what did it get me (0r us)?  Two so-so series, one that should not have been as close as it was.  Then when all the season issues should have meant something....FLOP FLOP FLOP!!! The elbow; the shutting out the coach; the personal issues off the court..anything but high level, top of the grade, basketball.  All I can see in a season recap, is a player looking to something; someone; someplace but not at the Q.  THE player of the year in '08 and '09 giving me that deer in the headlights look against the TEAM from Beantown!!  TEAM! That word!

What I found out for absolute is that a TEAM can win it all, whereas a collection of players may not win anything.  Will this thought hold up in NBA '10?  Don't know and really don't give a damn or care!  Don't care? Yep, you read it right.  Cause I have this strange feeling that this CAVS TEAM will play the game as a TEAM and I'm good with that, Win Lose or Draw!  (oops no draws in NBA, but you get my point.)

Now the Browns....To be continued!!!

Aug 25, 2010

back here after missing due to something called work!

Okay, it has been a while since I got in front of this computer and gave my unrequested opinion on things related to C'Town sports and things.  Something called 'work'? Well, got caught up and within the  next few days, I'll bring you up to date on what has bothered me about the Tribe; Browns; and Cavs.  Plus, HS football starts this weekend and that will add a few comments.  See you all soon.

Jul 29, 2010

Do you have any Browns/NFL memorable highlights?

In preparation for the '10 Browns season, and due to the miserable season for the Tribe and the unknown CAVS team, I am listing my 10 best Browns  and/or NFL highlight to get ready for the season.  Here is my list in no particular order:
  • First game watching Browns live at Municipal Stadium, sitting behind 3rd base dugout and watching a "flea-flicker" pass to Rich Krietling v. NY Giants
  • Browns v. Raiders "Red Right 88 game-there at the game and could not believe the silence after the interception.  Then it really felt COLD!
  • Browns doubleheader pre-season game v. Steelers.  Between games, ABM had fireworks show and due to weather, second game was played in a smokey, fogging condition.  Tremendous fights in bleachers, which was and still is the norm.
  • Colts v. Giants NFL Championship game in '58
  • Browns v. NY Jets, 1st Monday night game.  Saw it in day room at FT. Campbell KY, while in basic training w/USArmy
  • Browns v. Vikings, Hail Mary pass to Ahmad Rashad to win game at gun.  Needed game and gave it up.
  • The Drive-no more said!
  • Browns v. NY Jets-Bernie's comeback to tie and win in 2OT.
  • Browns v. Steelers-at game when the Browns returned.  Only good thing, the back of my head made the front page of the Plain Dealer!
  • Bears v. NY Giants Championship game.  The end of game with Y. A. Title kneeing with bloody head.  Unbelievable photo and game.
  • Browns v. LA Ram '50 NFL Championship game.  Dad personally knew Lou Groza and had an opportunity as a young kid to meet him and have him tell me the story leading to the game.  Got me hooked as a Browns football fan.
Finally, no matter what the rank and by whom, this is my #1 Browns game.  1964 NFL Championship game, December 27, 1964.  During the week leading up to the game, Tony Alesci and Sal Biondo (WHHS '65) and I talked about going to the game.  We got tickets on Tuesday.  Cost us $4.00 to sit in bleachers.  We sat right on the hash line and watched Gary Collins catch his 3 TD's from Frank Ryan.  Remember Galen Fiss' hit on Lenny More in backfield setting the tone for the day.  Never in my wildest dreams did I think that would be the last Cleveland pro teams' last championship, but that's the fact Jack!

Now, what about yours?









 

Jul 27, 2010

is this a year that come September we will remember finally for football?

Although this is the baseball series faithful Tribe fans look forward to each and every year (if you do not what I mean, the Yankees are in town), this Tribe fan is getting some early football fever.  Yep, that's right! This old 3rd basemen from Sohio Field, is seriously looking forward to the Browns season.  To my baseball brethren, no this is not heresy, but honest factual feelings!  
 
Since '95 when Another Bowel Movement (AKA ABM-Arthur B Modell) played Robert Irsay Part Deux and moved one of the most hallowed franchises to B'More, football-NFL style-seems to have some actual football interest.  This year there was a solid draft, not trading picks to move up one notch and pick someone who wasn't rated in the round being selected. No, so far, draft pick holdouts (remember B Quinn) and looks like the training camp will start on time and everyone ready to go.  No front office pissing matches over power plays, just solid NFL football men doing their football jobs, no egomaniacs more interested in things other than football.  An owner who FINALLY understands that it is just as important to have quality people in charge as much as it is to have unlimited cache!!  So all-in-all, leading to the beginning of the season, it is all football.
 
So, with that all said, what do I look for with the Browns?  1) A competitive team from opening kick-off to the final gun.  This is a must.  If you are in every game, a break or two that goes your way, can lead to a win.  Not being in a game means a loss from the get go. 2) Favorable schedule for fans, means strong home game support.  No matter what a player says, when the players know the fans are there for them, the players do respond in a positive way. 3)Divisional teams that each have some kind of hole.  Bungles-Carson Palmer IMO has been over-rated Period!  And Mike Brown is still owner. Pittspuke-QB problem to start season and maybe a team that is slipping. Still hate the colors Black and Piss, so that is settled.  Ravens-may be favorites, but are somewhat of a team getting older.  Are favs but not overwhelming one. 4) Hope. Yep that is right-HOPE.  LeBum and Mum are gone; DWest parts 1 and 2 are also gone. Mike Brown is gone. Not sure what will be on court in Nov., so there is an unknown issue surrounding basketball.  My Tribe is rebuilding and that will take at least 1/2 or 1 season to come to fruition, but at least we know that.
 
Therefore, the Browns will be a factor in the fall and winter.  This team has improved, and all we really want is a team that competes and let's see what happens!  I for one an ready....are you?    

Jul 26, 2010

don't the Browns look good after the summer events?

Well the King has abdicated his thrown to Miami (thank goodness) and all of the garbage went with him also.  His ego; his Scottie Pippen image; his mother (I hope); and any thing else necessary to clean the stank he left in C'Town.  (Please let me take this time to give Z my wishes that he gets his ring and returns back to the CAVS at his retirement.  He did he professionally and it should be so noted.)

Tribe finally did what everyone wanted to happen.. Bring up the kids and let then play under fire.  Other teams have put their "prospects" in and let them play, but for whatever reason, the Tribe brass never went that way.  So, I'm glad it finally took place this summer.

Now the Browns.  Every since the new front office was put in place, the football news has been just that...football, not off the field crap.  The '09 team has been silently remade with new FA's and draft picks.  Building from the last four games of last year and leading to this year.  For a change, the Browns seem to be moving in the correct direction.  Solid organization now in place, with personnel who KNOW PRO FOOTBALL; coaching staff that only has to COACH; and fans who are chomping at the bit for something to cheer about.  

Love my Tribe, but for the first time in a LOOONNNGGGG time, looking forward to a Browns' season.  GO DAWGS!!!!

Jul 9, 2010

you're not surprised are you?

To close out this "circus" also known as the Free Agent Ego-induced One-hour Infomercial of LeBron James, did you really, honestly, really think it would go another way then a bolt job but a egomaniac?  Yes, I am a live and die hard Cleveland fan, but I am not as upset as I thought.  First I am not a very big pro basketball fan, but a CAVS fan and look at this differently I guess.  We need to follow the points, now after the fact.  (Isn't it always easier to do this AFTER THE FACT?)

He comes from a family with no male figure to offset and balance the immaturity of a single, teen-age mother.  He is moved from place to place to place before he is 18 yrs old. He is proclaimed, rightly or wrongly with a mantle that is totally uncalled for, but is fertilizer to his ego.  He goes through media circus after circus during high school and leading to proclaiming himself (his 3rd person words) ready for the pros.  Draft day and all the hoopla.  Lands in his own backyard and gives the very distinct impression this is what he wanted all along, being at home.

Start of pro career that revitalizes a sorry professional franchise. Takes it to levels it never had before, but always points out what he, not the team, but what he does to facilitate this.  Goes on Olympic team and pouts when a recognized basketball coach has other players ahead of him.

Puts up unbelievable numbers, but still proclaims his greatness and the need for better players around him.  Another self-indulgent proclamation.  Team capitulates and does what it can to placate the egomaniac.  More wins; double/doubles; triple/doubles; scoring titles; all-something teams; but NOT the one thing he "proclaimed" he was here for, a CHAMPIONSHIP.  He is unable to LEAD and TAKE the team to one.  More proclamations and more capitulations by the team and fans (yes, include me in this, I am not w/o fan blame).

But the love affair has a silent lover and it is not seen until now.  His love for hisself (his words not mine and spelling is correct!) and two other suitors.  When does it start? '08 Olympics.  Two year affair begins all in front of our eyes.  But will it cultivate in a new relationship? Not sure for sure, but maybe not.  But egomaniac has a jolt to his ego.  According to NBC sports ( http://probasketballtalk.nbcsports.com/2010/07/dwyane-wade-chris-bosh-may-be-making-documentary-of-free-agency.php) this two lovers are doing something behind his back and he has to have the upper hand.  How about my own infomercial, says.  Let's get it.  How? Self-indulgent ego calls his friend who pitched the idea months ago.  Funny how the idea was pitched from the same office building in of all places Downtown Cleveland.  Look it up, announcer represented by firm in same building as ego-based management group.

So he has his show, with ground and air cover provided by children of the Boys and Girls Club in CT. Proclaims he cannot win on his own and has to be second or third fiddle on a team with the hopes of winning "his" championships.  If you are the "King" others come to you, right?  If you are the real thing, the others seek you out, right?  If you are set on one thing (championship) don't you focus on that, right? You are not concerned about the "brand"; not concerned about what is around you and what it means; not concerned about the "True" image you offer; and not concerned about how you deal with things as a "Man?"

I, and many others, were loved drunk, and you in closing on your ego-show, ask us to follow you?  Well, here is my answer and hope it is for all of you others, No LeBron James I will not follow you, nor will I wish you ill-will. You proclaimed your place in the world and you must live it.  Will you get your championship? Maybe and maybe not.  But at this time, it means no never mind to me.  I am fortunate, I did attend the '64 NFL Championship won by the Browns.  It STILL is as vivid now as then.  Why?  Because it was about a TEAM of players who had the greatest NFL running back of all time, that played as a TEAM and did not need to have the ego stroked to play as a TEAM and win as a TEAM.

To bad you weren't taught that and understood the meaning of TEAM in sports, not as you use it in your team of yes-man and leeches.  I will have a great life, the good, the bad, the tears, the laughs, but it will be my life.  Sorry you will miss out on what I and others have.

Stay strong Cleveland, and remember Gloria Gaynor-"I will survive!"

Now for the real bad news, my Tribe!!

Jul 8, 2010

What else!

Living and dying with Cleveland teams since 1948, I have really seen it all.  1954 WS; horrible baseball in '60s-'70's-'80s; great baseball mid '90's; unbelievable baseball in '95-2001; go for the money wherever it will take them; rebuilding and rebuilding and rebuilding; Municipal Stadium and pillars; The Jake and sold out seasons; The Pro (sorry no nickname, still the Jake to me).  pre Super Bowl era football; Super Bowl era football; Paul Brown; Blanton Collier; Art Modell; momentous games; some not momentous games; the move;NBA basketball at the old Cleveland Arena; Richfield Coliseum; Gund Arean; The Q; Walt Wesley; John Johnson; Gary Suiter; Footsie Walker; Binnnnnnnnnngo Smith; Austin "AC" Carr; Campy Russell; Brad; Mark; Larry; Hot-Rod; Z; Lenny; Ted Stepien; and now Dan Gilbert.

The uniqueness of the above is nothing in those events came from within the area.  No home grown owner; no home grown player; no kid you would follow in the neighborhood and see the evolution and maturity into one of the best.  This is what sets James and his decision apart from everything else mentioned.  Regardless of what anyone says, he is one of us.  He has seen; witnessed; felt all that we have endured for decades.  At the time of this writing, no decision has been made, but is eminent, and may not bode well for us.


This event has taken on a world of its own and is truly insulting to us, if you ask me.  I never thought I could replace Art "let's move it" Modell, but I maybe able to by this evening.

Jul 6, 2010

isn't this just getting out of hand?

Okay, we all have put up with the so-called Magical Mystery Free Agent that wasn't; rumors of who would go where and with whom; who is an Alpha-dog and who isn't; which presentation was the best, the worse, the useless, etc.; look at his hat, it says NY Yankees; and on and on and on.  Are we that stupid; gullible or just so unsure of ourselves as a city that we have to kowtow to a 20 something gazillionaire to beg him to stay to play basketball?  Why not beg to have the 20 something college degree scientist; educator; entrepreneur; inventor; etc, from our area institutions of higher education for them to stay?  Seems to me we have all of our values all mixed up and ass-backwards.  Sure I enjoy a well pitched game; a two-minute drive; a fast-break winner shot; any sporting event that brings me enjoyment.  But without my or your occupation; skills; earning power etc, could we enjoy the sporting events previously mentioned.

Now it all comes down to this.  A frickin' ESPN one hour long special to allow this gazillionaire 20 something year old tell the world where he will earn his next gazillion playing a game.  Sure everyone calls it a business when someone wants to make a point, but it is still a game.  Will I view this special?  Right now, not sure.  Do I want him to stay with the CAVS?  Sure, I'm a fan.  Do I want him to go?  Some parts of me do want  him to leave, just so I can move on. 

Which will it be?  Beats me and honestly, should we care?

Jul 4, 2010

isn't today a really special day?

Yes, today is a special day to all of us here in C'Town and all of the surrounding area.  Today things have come to a halt and we are basking in the sun; the warmth; the eats; and the family/friends to enjoy today, after yesterday July 3rd.

See after yesterday, today now starts another period of time we have to wait for.  Today is the day that we wait for something else to impact the area.  Today is the day we all cherish, whether we want to admit it or not.

You see, today is the Fourth of July, the nation's birthday. A nation that gives the freedom to do what was done July 1st, 2nd, and 3rd.  To give us the chance to grovel at the feet of gazillionaires; to make fools of our selves asking someone to stay even if the person never was going to leave anyway.  Today is the day that I can sit here and blog to my hearts content, know that for a brief moment, I like many before me.....

Served this country with honor defending our flag and our nation.

To me that is more important than anything else that took place this weekend!  To my fellow Vets from all eras, and to those who may be taking the next risk on my behalf....

THANK YOU VERY MUCH!!!
  

Jul 2, 2010

can you believe this circus???

Four teams down and two to go in the circus called, "You show me yours, and I'll think about it", AKA LeBron's Magical Mystery Free Agent Tour.  Whoever thought that the corner of E. 9th and St. Clair would be THE CENTER of the Sports world? Satellite trucks; TV cameras from all over; reporters both press, radio, and TV; fans; you name it they're probably there.  And let's not forget the Ring Master, LBJ himself.

And what will all come of this?  A young man, with amazing athletic skills will have to choose which multi-million  dollar sales pitch he will accept.  Which bag of lies will give him the best chance to fulfill a pledge made to a certain area and cities seven years ago (give or take a year or two).  Which body of work (i.e., presentation) will be reviewed by the King and his Court (No not Eddie Feigner) to be THE one.

Will any of this be worth it?  Of course it will and not just for the "off-the-wall fan" or the "fan in passing".  Downtown eateries; drinking locales; hotel rooms; etc, will truly benefit.  And the flip side, just the opposite.  So, without any of our input, a large decision awaits us, totally out of control.  We sit; listen; tweet; FB; email; blog; just to vent until the decision is made and he tells everyone he is going to sign with...................................?

Boy I can't wait!!!

PS>>If it does go our way, I cannot wait to give all of New York and New Jersey a "double, single finger salute" telling them "We are #1 and you ain't!!!"

Jul 1, 2010

do want this circus called "LeBron" to end soon?

New York Knicks...Chicago Bulls...New Jersey Nets...Miami Heat...LA Clippers...all are feature attractions of the "Cirque de LeBron" otherwise known as "LeBron's Free Agent Magical Mystery Tour" where the real winner will be EVERYONE who wants to stop hearing all of this!!  That's me, me friends, me enemies, me pets, me bill collectors, me anybody!! Don't take this that I want him to leave.  Hardly.  I, like any other die-hard Cleveland sports team fan, want Mr. LBJ to stay in C'Town w/CAVS and complete Mr. Phelps Mission Impossible assignment given to him, "Win an NBA Championship for Cleveland"! What I want to end is the following:

ESPN reports that....
The latest report from Team LeBron's entourage is...
Latest report is that power forward/point guard/center.....
The amount of cap space cleared by....
The group to sway LeBron will include....
The team's promotional presentation will include...

PUUUULLLLEEEZZZZZZ!!! This is going absolutely crazy! "What I have in this bag contains..."  This is getting NUTS!!  I understand the need for LBJ to go on "his college recruitment trips", but nothing, absolutely nothing, is worth all of this.  

Well almost nothing!  Let me win the Power Ball/Mega Millions lottery and I may surpass all of this going to the lottery office to collect my check.  (Hey you don't dream?).

So for the next few days we will have to put up with this, and Lordy-Lordy what will this give us if he decides to....? 

Jun 28, 2010

do the Indian's brain trust think we have no brains?

With the trading of the most beautiful left-handed strikeout swing this weekend, the "brain trust" (a loose phrase if I ever read one) of the Indians have admitted that, in 2010, the Tribe is re-building. REALLY!!!!! When did they come to that conclusion? What stars in the sky did they read to see that?  What conversations did they have with Dionne Warrick to understand that fact?  All the "brain trust" would have done was ask the people in the know...their dwindling fan base, that's who!!

I never slept in a Holiday Inn to understand that at the C. C. Sabathia trade deadline, the towel was being thrown in on winning for the next 5-7 years.  Why?  Simple.  The money is not going to be spent.  Do the Dolans have the money?  Don't know for sure.  Do they want to spend the money?  Apparently not on ball players who can produce, both short term or long term.  They dump, yes dunp, C.C., Cliff Lee, Victor Martinez, and to a lesser degree Ben Fransisco, Ryan Garko, Franklin Gutierrez, for supposedly high ranking prospects.  Then they sign such retreads as Austin Kearns; Mark Redmond, Mark Alphabet, Kerry Woods, and the aforementioned left handed strike out swing.  And still around is the deer in the headlights 3rd basemen; a 1B/DH who cannot throw; and others to numerous to mention.

Now within the past three days, the "brain trust" make the statement we have known for years, we are rebuilding.  I often think I and many others like myself, could make better decisions than the "brain trust", but WTH we are only fans who spend our precious money on season tickets; food/beverages/parking/team shop items to sit and watch a fake major league team 162 times a year.  Insulting is the best word I can use.

If I am told that it is necessary to rebuild a team, then go ahead and rebuild.  I'll accept it.  I know the economics of the sport. I am a fan, but a realist.  Come clean, tell me the plan, give me something to watch and observe grow.  I'll be all in. But don't do what my wife always says,

"Don't Bullshit a Bullshitter!!" 

Jun 25, 2010

are you feeling ill too?

So, it is day one after the NBA draft and do any of us feel any better?  

"Not I" said the Indians fan (lose 12-3 and have to endure a 1 hr 27 min rain delay in 8th inning!!);  

"I'm feeling a little better" said the Browns fan, "only because the season hasn't started and we all know what really will happen don't we?"

"Hell no, I don't feel better", said the CAVS fan, "In fact, I feel like puking in the lake!" 

"Are you that sick?" I replied. 

"Sick...you said sick! I could throw up in my mouth if I could" he yelled. He went on, "Bulls clear tons of cap space. Same for Heat. Damn NY has but two players on team. And NJ...billionaire Ruskie owner and no players?  Hell yes, I'm sick!!" he shouted with spittle flying all over me.  "And the icing on the cake...CAVS don't do anything; nada; zip; zero; nil; zilch!"  "And I am supposed to be happy?" "Oh but I forgot. Danny Boy is trying to buy part of Thistledown for his Casino empire.  Now that will help the CAVS, right?"

"Well," I started, "maybe." 

"MAYBE?" CAVS fan shouted as we were nose-to-nose! "The only help it will bring the CAVS is the owners' write off when the CAVS go belly-up when Ego Boy LeBron goes...pick a team, 'cause it sure dunt looks like he likes the colors Wine and Gold anymore!!"

As I back up, I say, "Go on."

"CAVS went all in (damn a casino term!) and with no reserve, face losing big time! No back-up plan; no coach; no cap space; no bodies to trade; no..NOTHING!!! Show me the lake, gotta puke!" and off he went.


Well, it shows that the disease is taking hold big time.  The disease you ask? It is widely know as "O.I.C."  HUH?  "Only in Cleveland"  

Yep, only in Cleveland can we have the 2-time reigning NBA MVP tank a needed playoff game; have an owner go all in and not have a back-up game plan; have fans force to buy '10-'11 season tickets BEFORE the playoffs and BEFORE free agency; only to watch the season go down the tubes and the "Chosen One" preparing for a new chosen arena. 


Maybe I will be like Bob Newheart and wake up to realize this is all a dream.  Yeah right, and I could play 3rd base for the Tribe!! 


But then again, given the team playing for the Indians, maybe.....No maybe not!"

Jun 24, 2010

does anyone remember when ALL of our teams really stunk all at once?

I know we long-time suffering C'Town fans are used to some kind of suffering with one team or another, but can anyone remember suffering with all the teams AT THE SAME TIME?  I've been around long enough to remember basketball needed peach baskets, no not that long, but long enough to honestly state it never has been like this.  Now I know things could change after July 1st and possible change for the good, but do you really feel that way?  

The Indians-a definite struggle to go to the park, fork over good money, and then watch a fundamentally-challenged team attempt to play this silly game!  There are times I think I could do no worse right now, then some on the "talent" on the 25 man roster.  Truth be told tho....I'm not that far from being right!

CAVS-in the state of psychological doom, with no chance of every playing a basketball game again!  Really?  There was basketball before Dan Gilbert and before LBJ.  Granted it was mostly terrible basketball, but for a few years in the mid '90.  Yet will basketball leave or be gone for good after LBJ back-ups his words and goes to seek a title in a different Zip Code?  Probably not.  Great basketball could be gone, but not the sport.  One thing going for us BK fans, an owner who has deep pockets willing to spend (sometimes not smartly) but none the less, willing to spend.  Casino soon to be upon us and filling his pockets, meaning more money to spend, maybe on the necessary parts to mold into a championship team.  Who will remember all of this if a Championship Parade takes place in C'Town or Independence or even Akron?  Betcha ya won't! 

Browns past 10+ yrs. have put nothing on the field, but the lemmings keep the PSL sold; loges filled; and game attendance at near sell-out levels.  Just imagine what it would be with a team that actually competes on the field?  As Dick Enberg would say, "My or My!"

So, tonight begins the first step in a long journey to the ultimate fan destination, a World Championship.  In any sport, one would be accepted, but the CAVS are out of the box first. Let's see if they can start the journey that will end in the following phrase, "Kids, back in '11 I was at the game that brought a Championship to Cleveland for the first time since 1964!"  I do have a leg up on you though, I was in fact in Municipal Stadium on December 27, 1964 watching Gary Collins take in three perfect throws from Frank Ryan for TD's and saw Lou "The Toe" Groza's 2 FG's for a 27-0 upset of the then Baltimore Colts and our last World Championship.

See every story can have a happy ending.  Hope to have another one sooner than later, if ever!!! 

PS: I know it is World Cup time, and the Force/Crunch won a Championship since then, but honestly...do you consider soccer a sport? I don't and this is my blog!!!

Jun 23, 2010

is the World Cup viewed because it is soccer or an event?

Come clean everyone, you are watching/listening/reading about the World Cup, aren't you?  Why?  Do you even know?  Nope you don't, but I have an idea. Real football has the Super Bowl for pros and the BCS for college; baseball has the World Series; basketball has March Madness for college and pros have the final games of the playoffs; and hockey has it own playoffs and the Stanley Cup (side note:  Game Seven of the final Stanley Cup is the best of all the playoffs, and I don't follow hockey).  But do you follow ALL the games leading up to each sports playoffs?  Or do you get involved in the tail end of the playoff series?  If you are like me, you get involved in the final game or the biggest EVENT of the related sports playoffs.  Super Bowl-an event, not a game any longer; March Madness is more than games, it is an event spread over three weekends leading to the "Final Four"; baseball has its playoffs to see who goes to the World Series; and finally hockey has a season that culminates in the Stanley Cup.  So this brings us to soccer (no it is not football it is soccer!) and the World Cup. The World Cup is an event and we all love events, even if we don't understand a single thing related to that event.  We will set parties up around the event; we will work schedules around events; and we may even play hooky from work for the event.  

The truth of the subject is the vast majority of us US are viewing the World Cup not because it is the sport of soccer, but it is time for another event to take place and we are all in!  Now go win the damn thing won't you!!! 

Jun 22, 2010

...has Tribe baseball apathy hit the Dolans?

It has been a while and a ton of things have happened, and nothing is good :+(  The Cavs, lead (a term used loosely) by LBJ did the best fold-a-roo since...well I'm hard pressed to find a time a Cleveland team performed so atrociously in an important game.  At least Jose Mesa threw the ball in '97 and not the entire game; season; and possibly the franchise! the Browns FINALLY made a RIGHT step with the hiring of Mike Holmgren.  At least you have the feeling that someone is in charge and someone who KNOWS football.  The QB debacle is over, but still not settled.  But at least we have a proven QB in the mix.  Not sure?  Then I ask you to read all the names of QB's since '99 and you'll see what I mean.  Just a few weeks from now Browns camp opens and the football season sheds hope to all of us.  And that brings me to my beloved Indians.

Sadly, it pains me to say this but I have no interest in following them now.  Did not say at all, simply said now.  Why? Well if I wanted to follow the minor league players, I can travel less than 10 miles to Eastlake and watch the Captains and not have to get a second mortgage to take the family of 4; feed and drink them; and get choice seats.  Rather do that then spend what little hard earn money I have left to watch baseball at the Jake (still refuse to call it anything else).  The two times there I have witnessed a team that has deplorable fundamentals; a bullpen that seems afraid of its shadow; a batting line-up that cannot hide both Branyon and Peralta at the same time.  They may be really nice people no doubt, but has anyone seen a smoother left-handed strike out swing than Branyon's?  Or a batter that has those deer in the headlights look like Peralta?  And as far as Luis Valbena, I can loose 35 lbs, and he would STILL be batting less than my desired weight! Now there is talk of trading ANOTHER quality player away in Carmona?  Yes, I know he has struggled, but is it that far removed from the Yankee infested midges game that he was soooo dominant?  C.C. Sabathia; Cliff Lee; and Victor Martinez all traded for roster filling bodies for Eastlake; Kingston; Akron; and Columbus.  And I am supposed to be excited to go to the Jake to see what......NOTHING!  I am not one who goes to see the other stars come into town, I want to see my stars, not theirs.  And until such time, I guess my Tribe apathy is growing and that my friends is a BIG PROBLEM for the Dolan's.

May 17, 2010

WOW...what a flame out we saw!

What started out as a ride to remember in Nov '09 has now been completed and to no one's original destination. How could a team with the following: 2 time and reigning MVP; previously years COY; two future HOF'ers; best record in back-to-back years; and home court through out the playoffs in 2008-2009 and 2009-2010 throw out the BIGGEST BRAIN FART on record! Yes, I still pain from the Jose Mesa debacle, but that was IN THE WORLD SERIES, not in an early round playoff series. Yes, the Browns/Broncos Drive Game hurts, but that too, WAS IN THE GAME LEADING to the ultimate game, the Super Bowl. This CAVS BF (Brain Fart) was in the second round, repeat SECOND ROUND! Not the Conference finals; not the NBA Finals, THE FRICKIN' SECOND ROUND! And with all the above going for them! No one is above culpability, not Ferry; not Brown; not James; and to some extent not Dan Gilbert. Dan's only problem is/was not being able to say "NO" at times. Other than that, no one is untarnished. But the biggest tarnish spot has to be on LBJ. For everything he has said since 9th grade at Akron's SV-SM, everyone got the feeling his ultimate goal was to bring a championship to this city before he does anything else. Listening to his statements; watching his body language; and using a gut feeling, I believe it was all lip-service to get what he wanted and if not, go for the gold, opps, go for the green! He may not be that person, but only if he decides to continue in that quest in Cleveland, will he be able to change other peoples feelings, including mine, which now contain the statement, "Frankly my dear LBJ, I don't give a damn!".

May 8, 2010

I'm back and where are my Indians?

Took some time off to catch up on some things and my Wahoos are MIA.  If I look closely, I think I see EWedgeie still in dugout, moving players all over the place, changing batting line-ups, moving pitchers up and down to C'Bus, letting pitchers walk more than strike out, keep Jooohaaannny in line-up, looking for long ball from SOMEBODY, and hell, I give up for now.  Gotta watch my CAVS tear Celtics a new anatomy part on Sunday and bury them for good back at the Q.  Till then, when does spring training start again?

Apr 14, 2010

Apr 12, 2010

aren't you glad today is today?

Well, unlike any day that you can call "today", this "today" only happens once a year.  Never mind the weather (although high 60's and sunny is perfect); never mind the day of the week (Mondays and Fridays are the best, Saturday and Sundays are the worse); never mind the traffic (since when do we not mind traffic); never mind your work attire (do we really care what we look like on today's "today" before?); and never mind the end results (even though we normally are concerned by the end results, today's "today" will be overlooked).  Why such frivolity on today's "today"?  Simple...It's OPENING DAY and the HOME OPENER for our beloved Tribe!  Each and every person, makes no never mind what team or what league or what city is important, opening day marks the spot. The spot where everything is at 0-0; bad memories from the past are removed; future memories are not created yet; and today is "today"!  Fathers/Mothers will have son/daughter in hand, the same as when the fathers were sons and mothers were daughters, and they were "in hand".  The sight of blue will be the "bluest ever!" The green will be the "greenest ever"!  The white will be the "whitest ever"! And "PLAY BALL" will sound as "loud as ever"!  When did a the smell of a hot dog smell as good as "today"?  When did opening peanuts become such a ritual as it "does today"? When did the price of a soda or beer become...well you can't have everything "today"!!  "Today" means more than "Opening day".  It brings most of us back full circle.  What other event can do that?  There are many reasons why one can bemoan where they live; what they do; what life has dealt them.  But for a short 4+ hours that is all put on the back burner and I'll take it.  Go Tribe.  

Apr 8, 2010

do you have a Home Opener memory?

This has nothing to do with the game itself, but all leading up to the opening day game.  A youngster who shall remain nameless (okay Ryan?) was all set to take in the Opening Game Day festivities when he was told he couldn't miss school.  Talk about being bummed out!  He knew I had tickets and he really thought he was going to go.  He wouldn't talk with me for the days leading up to the game.  Well the morning of the opener, he came down for breakfast with the saddest, poutingest, maddest face a fifth grader could have.  He was so out of sorts, he ate breakfast WITHOUT reading the funnies, which was the norm.  Didn't say a word to him and just delightfully watched him stew!  Without being too direct I asked him why no comics.  He said not funny this morning.  Kinda moved him to think about reading them and eventually he started.  Then on page two he saw what he was hoping for.  Taped to the funnies were the two tickets to opening day that had some how been delivered in the morning paper (not really, but this is a story folks!).  He couldn't hide the grin.  He quickly got up and changed into his "going to the game" clothes and asked when do we leave (it was only 7:30 AM).  Told him we had to report his illness to school and then we would depart.  What ever happened at the game was all secondary to the primary scene, watching the enjoyment spread over my son's face when he found he was going to his first opening day game.  Fast forward to this Monday and Opening Day and Dad and Son will be taking in the game, and this will be another game added into our fond memories.  Go Tribe!!

Apr 6, 2010

wasn't the NCAA Final Four Game one of the best?

Have to give kudos to Coack K and the Dukies!  Great game to watch and would have loved to be there for the fan intensity.  But let's not forget the Butler Bulldogs!!  For a so-called mid-major, they did all of those mids proud!  Very well coached team; play with unbelievable intensity from tip-off to the last shot.  Should go down as one of the best FF Championship games.  And I've seen 42 of them!

Apr 5, 2010

isn't opening day something special?

We've endured months of snow; record breaking cloudy-sunless days; a 5-11 football season; a VERY long regular NBA season (still not done); but now summer is here!!  Tribe and others open the MLB season today and everyone of importance is tied for first place!  All is well for now and please make the call:   "PLAY BALL!!"  Let's go Tribe!!!

Apr 1, 2010

wouldn't you want to play Commissioner of Baseball? Part IV

Now this one is a no-brainer (kinda fits with Selig-huh!) get rid of the All-Star Game winner getting World Series Home Games!  For crying out loud Bud (I forgot, there is no crying in baseball, but..) the All-Star Game is an EXHIBITION GAME!!!!  Do you see the NFL having the preceding year's Pro-Bowl say who gets the Super Bowl?  Ahhhh....NO!  How about the NBA's All-Star Game love fest??? Ahhhhh....NO AGAIN!! Then why is MLB so STUPID to have an important league event (World Series home field) possibly determined by someone representing a team that has been out of the race since opening day (yeah, I could be looking at my young Wahoos!!)?  As much as I don't, or didn't like the home team being alternated every other year, at least that had nothing to do with a made up challenge.  Go back to 1971, Pete Rose v. Ray Fosse.  What if (then it was a BIG WHAT IF) the Tribe was in contention for the WS and because Charlie Hustle took out Fosse and the NL won, home field would have been Cincy and, and w/o the injured Tribe backstop.  Bud, you care about the game, I know I hear your passion on the Mike and Mike Show, but maybe it is time to go back to selling cars.  Either go back to the old way, or find a new way to determine home team, but whatever it will be, it has to be better than attaching it to a meaningless mid-summer game.

Mar 31, 2010

wouldn't you want to play Commissioner of Baseball? Part III

Issue number 3:  Inter-league play!  Simple-END IT!!!!!  I for one cannot take another Indians-Reds home-and-away series of games.  I definitely am old school on this.  I loved not seeing the NL (we are an AL city) until the All-star game and World Series.  (I know w/our track record, not many opportunities with WS, but I digress)  With the advent of free agency and player movement all over the place and all the time, do I need to see the Brewers, when part of the team had former AL'ers on it?  Would I rather have more games with Red Sox and Yankees instead of San Diego; Pittsburgh; Florida; etc?  Heck yes!!  Warm weekday evening in the summer and the visiting team is...Yankees or Astros?  Give me the Yankees ANYTIME and EVERY TIME!!!  If I as new MLB Commish cannot get rid of DH and the two leagues are different on this subject, then let's not merge them, even if it for a little time in mid-season.  No DH, no inter-play; DH, still not inter-league play.  Let the WS really mean a test between the two best teams from the two leagues!  BRILLIANT!! (if I say so myself).  So, New Rule #3 (oops...sorry Bill Maher)..no more inter-league play.

Mar 29, 2010

wouldn't you want to play Commissioner of Baseball? Part II

Issue number Deux (#2 for those who could care less):  "Designated Hitter" or "No DH"! With no offense to Ron Bloomberg, I as the Commish have to decide what to do, oh what to do?  Keep the DH and have offensive onslaughts instead of 2-1 games decided by the "double switch" (is there a triple switch?) with the pitcher now batting in the clean-up position?  Have the batting order hole exploited w/batters #8 and #9?  Or would I want to have a line-up where there is no easy out and the #9 hitter could be someone with 15-20 hrs and 70 RBIs? (No, it is not RBI, it is RBIs!) What benefit does the game get with a pitcher coming to the plate, watch his opponent's knuckle-curve for pointers, and then parade back to the pines?  There are only 27 outs scheduled per team per game, so why give 1-2-3 away?  But on the other hand, how thrilling is to watch a masterful pitchers' gem, like Carmona v. Yankees in 2007?  Those at the Jake (will not call it the Prog) absolutely on the edge of each seat as each pitch becomes more and more important?  Yet, how does that compare to, oh let's see, a 12-something lead disappear into an extra inning win of say 15-14 (remember Omar in extra innings v. Seattle)?  You are not out of the game, (well some teams are not out of it), when a crooked number is placed on the scoreboard, and your team is up to bat? Remember Paul Sorrento and his homer in the last inning to overcome a 9-0 lead by the Blue Jays for the win?  Or how about Bob Gibson and Denny McClain in the '68 World Series going head to head, with neither giving an inch?  Damn it is a hard call, but I as Commish will give you edict Numero Dos, both leagues use the DH! Sorry Bobby Cox; Tony LaRussa; and others.  I for one do not like those gosh awful "double switches"!  They're gone and the DH lives on.  That's for you Ronny!!

wouldn't you want to play Commissioner of Baseball?

In a few short days, summer will officially be here. Maybe not by the calendar, but when the first cry of "Play Ball" is heard, for me, summer is upon us (and my little associate!!).  We are now officially out of the house, taking in all the sights; sounds; and feelings so compelling when watching a baseball game.  The NFL may have the lock on the money generated; basketball may show us remarkable athleticism, but for me, trying to hit a 3" round object coming at you at 90+ MPH and you trying to hit it with a round object 34 oz in weight and only 33" long and trying to be successful .333 percent of the time, is mesmerizing.  But if you could play Bud Selig for a year, what would you do?  There are a few things I would do, and I'll start this by my first step.  Bring back Double Headers!!  Sure, single games bring in more revenue but remember the days when the games were Friday night; Saturday afternoon; and the Sunday Double Header?  I would love to have them back, even if it meant paying a double cost for the game, or clearing out the park between games and coming back in with a second ticket. No Thursday games or Monday games, wrapped around Fri-Sat-Sun to make a four game series; could be used for make-ups; shorten the season so games don't start in snow and end in snow!  Decreased travel and accommodations for short stays.  With baseball the ONLY game played without a clock and MLB trying to speed up a game that has been based on no limits, shorten the season will speed up the season and to me, bring the game back to its glory years; when going to the game was the highlight of a weekend or time to step away from the rat-race we are constantly in.  That's my first installment-more to follow, all leading up to Opening Day at the ol' ballyard.

Mar 28, 2010

are you ready for THIS final four?

OK, the final four is set for next weekend.  Butler v. M.S.U.; and Duke v. W.V.U.. Only one #1 in final four, and I think the winner will be.....?

so far so good on Elite Eight picks!!

Okay, got lucky with Butler and West-by-God Virgin-nnia!  But had seen Butler this year and they are for real..duh..what an understatement!  Have always liked Huggie Bear, even when at U of Cincy.  So for today...Baylor to upset the Dukies, and the Big 10 to be represented by MSU over UTenn!  Therefore, no #1's to the Final Four!  Time for the tube!!

Mar 27, 2010

I still have to post the Elite Eight :=(

So, OSU gets hammered and is out; Cavs lose at Spurs; and MHS Cards lose in State Semi.  Not a very good day for me, but here goes with Elite Eight:

MSU/Tenn -  MSU
But/K ST - on a limb, Butler
UK/WVU - Please Bob Huggins, WVU
Duke/Baylor - Baylor (very much a surprise team)

If this holds, no #1 to the final four.  Final Four posted this week. 

Mar 25, 2010

I gotta set "Sweet Sixteen" picks

OK:  Join in for the "Sweet Sixteen" picks:

Northern Iowa/Mich St-UNI;
Tenn/OSU-OSU;
Syr/Butler-Syr;
XU/K-State-K-State;
UK/Cornell-UK (ugh!);
Wash/WV-WV;
Duke/Purdue-Duke;
Baylor/St. Mary-St. Mary.

Elite Eight posted on Saturday!  Join in!!

Mar 21, 2010

are your sweet sixteen sour?

This will be short, but not sweet.  Have two good picks going into "16" OSU and Butler.  But the big East (notice the small big) played havoc on my brackets (remind me next year to avoid them).  But gotta love Northern Iowa, since I did not, repeat, did not have Kansas going to Final Four (had MSU beat them).  So, it is time to rest and regroup for next weekend.

Mar 19, 2010

are your brackets toast too???

Ahhh, March Madness, Day 1!  Overtime games! Double Overtime games! Buzzer Beaters! Double digit slotted teams win and one, THE Ohio University get a double digit win over a very-who-gives-a-hoot! Georgetown Booyas!!!  Great to see, but ohhh my bracket!  Then I get my Butler Bulldogs to come through, only to see another "great" BB league team fall flat on their Commodore faces (thanks Vanderbuilt and SEC)!  Can you say, O-VER-RATED!!!  But, isn't this why March Madness is so....Mad!!!  You pick an upset, then get an upset at the same time.  Did you watch many games?  Comon' be truthful!  NCAA has live streaming of all games, so you have to be watching!  If not, then you must tell the truth and you're home sick (or having a vasectomy); resting your bones (and other body parts) taking in large quantities of cold liquids (yeah, of course have to stay hydrated, ya know) and keeping the body still so it does not disturb all the medicinal items taken to help with your bout of whatever bug is going around (should only be about a 24-48 hour one this time). So, take good care of yourself, your family and boss are depending on you being back at your slave station on Monday, all rested; eyes bright; and on top of your game, ooppps.. on top of your job skills!  Now let's go OU!  Still time for an OSU - OU match-up for Buckeye State bragging rights!

Mar 17, 2010

do you feel a cold coming on, say around Thursday?

Okay, in a little bit more than 48 hrs, the madness will begin.  Office production may take a little decline, but we have been declining for months anyway, so what the hell a little more won't hurt.  Lunch hours will be extended, for those who get a lunch break!  Streaming on line will go up, if you have uninhibited internet access.  And finally, sick time use may be on the rise, again, if you have paid sick time.  And this is all for what?  Three weekends of blow-outs or close games; high profile student-athletes, okay, maybe just athletes, making unbelievable plays, one that this short white guy can only dream about.  Students cutting classes to travel to distant places for one, maybe two games to cheer on their future alma maters, and never forgetting the experience of being there.  How do I know?  Well 40+ years ago, I and four other classmates, made the trip from Dayton to New York to take in the UD Flyers in the '68 NIT.  Back then, the NCAA only took in 20 or so teams and those "on  the bubble" got invited to the NIT, at Madison Square Garden, in New York, New York. Thought we would be there for a weekend, or a game.  Turned out we stayed all tournament long; missed just one class (how is another story) and celebrated UD's win over Kansas on a St. Pat's weekend in NYC.  Now that was a college class that I got no credit!  So, let the games begin and I will turn my head when my son says he is going to BeeDubs for a game, even if the game is at Noon on Thursday!!  Good Luck to all.

Mar 15, 2010

are you not sure of your brackets, too?

Okay, saw the tons of bracket shows yesterday and still not sure what to do with mine, except to make my picks.  I've entered the "Mike and Mike-Sheets of Integrity" at ESPN.  Here is one, yes one, of my sheets.  I do only two or three, so don't hyperventilate or throw up in your mouth.  Click the link below and join me with yours.

http://games.espn.go.com/tcmen/en/entry?entryID=1295230

Mar 13, 2010

are you ready for the "Dance"?

Sunday evening, all the dancing partner's cards will be filled and they will know who they are dancing with.  Unlike DWTS (Dancing With The Stars, for you uninformed media avoiders), these dancing partners get one dance then move on with a new partner.  New steps; new locations; new style; but not new outfits (Thank goodness..could not imagine Evan Turner in Gold sequins).  Then there is the travel to be taken into account.  Never staying in the same place for more than two dances; going from different parts of the US of A; battling time zones; body clocks (not the Flav-R Flay clocks) and anything else that can be a missed step in the dance routine.  With that being said, here are my favorite dancers, well before the dancing begins.  1. Kansas  2. Kinntucky   3.  Siracuse  4.  West-by-God Virginnia  Some partners to emerge may include THE Ohio State University; GeorgiaTown; and Hey Butler!.  Any way, it is  slowing becoming "March Madness" and let the dancing begin.

Mar 10, 2010

do you have "The Nightmare"?

With kudos to Connie Wolski, who for whatever reason, is on the same wave length as I am, responded to "The Dream" post with a "The Nightmare" post possibility.  Yes, I had this lying in wait and was going to do the opposite of "The Dream".  So, here it goes.  Unlike "The Dream" you can cite an actual nightmare, either as a witness; there live or via media; or as a participant.  There have been many "Nightmares" in this championship depraved town, and the list could go on for pages.  But one and only one is to be listed; the most agonizing, gut wrenching, "I can't believe what I just saw (thanks Jack Buck)" moment.  This may take awhile since there have been so many.  Here is mine.

As I recalled in "The Dream", "The Nightmare" is the exact opposite and I saw it unfold once and will not see it ever again.  You know what I mean.  The Jose Mesa debacle (thanks LaBron).  Sitting at home, at 1:00 AM going into the bottom of the ninth inning of the seventh game of the '97 World Series.  Series tied at 3-3.  Tribe up by one run, and the closer Jose Mesa comes in.  Not a clean inning to begin with, but finally two outs and one out away from the first WS win since, oh  my birth year, 1948.  Johnson the batter.  Mesa blows two strikes by him, with absolutely no effort from Johnson.  Sandy Alomar calles for the heater-but wait!  Mesa shakes him off!  Again fastball called, with Mesa shaking off the pitch again.  Finally Mesa shakes his head and throws...A SLIDER?!?!?!?!?  Or was it A CHANGE-UP/!?!?!?!?!?!?  Whatever the pitch, I see it foating into RF and the tying run scores.  Sadly the rest is history.  Tribe the first team in WS history to take a lead into the last inning of the last game of a WS and LOSE!!!!!!  All because of six inches!  Yep, the six inches between the left ear and right ear of Jose Mesa.  He is not to think on the mound, he is to pitch on the mound.  Once he started thinking, that was it.  To this day, I have not watched any replay of the seventh game of that series, same a Mike Hargrove.  That does not feel good, it still hurts!

Mar 9, 2010

do you have "The Dream"?

Every kid, guy or gal, who has played some kind of sport has had what I call "The Dream".  Y'all know what that is!  Bottom of the ninth, seventh game of the World Series.  Team is down by a run, two outs and you're up.  Man on 1st and 2nd. The best closer is marching in from the bullpen to close out the series. You watch his warm-ups. Fastball's blazin'.  He throws that curve that looks like it fell off the table's edge!  Ump calls "play ball" and you step in.  Right this instant, no one else in the sports world has as many eyes upon them as you right now.  Here's the pitch!  Everyone has had "The Dream".  You visualized mine, so what's yours?


PS:  Got a double in the gap and the tying and winning runs scored and I'm mobbed at 2nd base!

Mar 8, 2010

do you really have a team you hate!

Yes, it is true "I hate the Yankees...always have...always will!!", but do I REALLY hate the Yankees?  Truth be told...hell yeah!!!  Especially the fans!!  OMG, going to a Tribe game and see all that NY garbage splashing over the crowd makes one want to...puke!  Then that word "puke" really and I mean REALLY takes me to the team I HATE--REALLY HATE!  That is the Pittspuke Stealers!  Spelling is correct!  To those who wear the coal and urine colors, they think professional football started in 1970.  Funny, but before that year seems to me, a team in Cleveland had won four NFL Championships (same league the Stealers failed to hit the .500 mark in) and four titles in the old AAFC (league that included the 49ers).  So that makes 8 titles, albeit in two leagues.  But I digress.  Did you ever see a game at old Forbes Field? Horrendous for football.  Then they move to the bagel bowl on cement.  Guess with a hard head and no brains, who cared what you played on.  Then the steal a game from both the Raiders and the Oilers, to get to what is now called the Super Bowl.  Then because they have such putrid beer, what is it called, Iron City Beer, (tastes like the color of urine-see the link) they have to come to C'Town to take in the Stealers/Browns game since the place was better; the beer was and is better; and you could get something better than just a perogi sandwich.  So, I may hate the Yankees and will always hate them, there is a little sence of respect in my feelings.  With the Pittspuke Stealers, the hate is real and if ever the NFL needs to contract teams, Roger should look very closely at them.  Whew, that felt good!!!

Mar 7, 2010

do you see what I see?

Finally, two, yes count them, two days in a row and the sun is shinning (get me my shades)!  And to make it even better, my  Tribe has won two straight games in Cactus League play!  As some one recently said, "Whoo Hooo"!  Yeah, I know it is spring training and nothing counts.  Well, after the past two years, there has to be a starting point, and these are small (okay, microscopic) steps in the right direction.  Earlier posts acknowledged my feelings for Eric Wedge as a big league manager.  No knock against him as a person, but as a manager, I think my son could have accomplished the same as he.  (My son, oh he just started his teen years!!  Only kidding dude, I know you are old enough to drive and drink, better not be together tho!)  Any way, there were times at the Jake when we took in games and guessed what Wedge was going to do, not in a positive way, but in a critique of Wedge's managing skills (or lack thereof).  More than not, we were right on point!  So what does that tell ya?  Either I am in the wrong profession, or Wedge was!  Since I am still a season ticket holder, the answer lies with Wedge.  Does Manny Acta give me and other fans hope and optimism?  Why not?  When you are at the bottom a division that has the KC Royals, you search for SOMETHING!  Even if it is two meaningless spring training games.  The purpose of spring training is to wet the juices of the fans, not get the players ready for the year.  Hell, baseball like all other professional sports is a year-round activity.  No more ending the  season; rest through the winter, get to spring training and get in shape for the season.  Too much money floating around to act the old way.  One of the reasons the Tribe went back to Arizona was the climate and more players live in the area year-round.  So give them the best complex for the  off season and get rid of the old off season.  And the Tribe is not the only team doing this.  But back to my Tribe.  Another step in the right direction, is Manny being Manny (not that Manny, but our Manny).  He is the mgr. and he is going to do what he feels is correct.  First thing, take the only established star (Grady) and move him into a better line-up slot to take advantage of Grady's skills.  Bravo Manny!  Good move and don't stop there.  Put Jo-hanny Peralta in the line-up at 3rd and tell him, produce or sit the pines.  Screw his ego.  I for one have had enough of his matador defense at SS (you know waving at a feeble ground ball and say, O-lay!) And let's stop this STUPID-STUPID idea of having 9 guys in the line-up who can play all nine positions, but not one well!!!  Where ever did Wedge get that genius of an idea.  Find the best position player at each position; put them there and tell them to play! Period!  That does not seem like rocket science to me.  How about you?  Finally, just give me a team of players who want to play; give the extra to learn; and get on the field and do it.  No more DeLucci/Michaels tandems that can't even combine to hit .230+, 10 HRS and 50 RBIs. Example-who is a starting OF for the Mariners?  Couple of seconds more.  None other than Franklin Guiterriz!  Where did they get him...oh yeah, Cleveland.  Wedge just never gave him a long stretch in the line-up without FG feeling one misstep and he is back riding the pines, or steel whatever a bench is now made of.

So, keep the sun a shinning; keep the Tribe a winning, and I'll keep a believing cause that is all we can do right now.

Mar 4, 2010

do you follow another team?

As sports fans (BTW: short for fanatical), we all follow certain teams, usually in our home town, or current town (maybe).  With that said, who do you follow other than your fav team?  Or, what team would NEVER EVER ABSOLUTELY NOT follow?
I'll start:  MLB-gotta love the Cubbies, especially after taking in a game at Wrigley. No need to state my off the wall comments about the Yankees!  NFL: Hard one, since I follow FB but not as diligently as MLB.  But if I must choose it would be the NY Giants-love the old school uniforms.  Close second would be Minn Vikes.  NBA-Have had a love-hate feeling w/Celtics.  Follow them to see them lose, so that's my NBA pick.  NHL: No team here so follow Penguins.  Not really into C'Bus Blue Jackets, so Pens get the pick.  Close second-NY Islanders, BGSU/Olympic grad Ken Morrow played with Isles and that kept me watching.  Now yours!

Mar 2, 2010

are you too, tired of the snow?

Now that it is March, that means three things.  One snow should be ending, I hope!  Two, opening day is less than 4 weeks away! And three, "MARCH MADNESS"!!! IMO, the four weeks devoted to this tournament is the best event spread over a few weeks and weekends.  Unknown teams take on the Big Names (last year-Cleveland State v. Wake Forrest for example) always spark the early draws and games.  Further the march goes, the more the Big Names prevail.  With that said, and the brackets not up yet, who do you see as an unknown team making a big splash?  What big name team makes the big splash by getting dumped!  Who is your favorite right now and will you change it as the brackets will be formed?  Will you play a bracket sheet? One or Many?  OK..get ready..tipoff is just a week away!  Go Flyers!!!

Feb 26, 2010

did you watch the Winter Olympics?

Come Sunday, the Winter Games will end.  They were televised by NBC and on their cable channels.  Going into the games, NBC pre-announced that they would lose about $250M before the game even STARTED!  Given that, did you watch any of the games?  If so, what stoked your interest?  What did you try to watch and just couldn't? Was there something you just took some time to view and found it interesting and it hooked you? Was there an event that you wanted to watch but couldn't 'cause of the way NBC programmed it?  Is there a winter sport not in the Olympics that should be in?  Are you more interested in the Summer Games or the Winter Games?  Who was your favorite Winter Olympian?  Will it ever stop snowing in areas that don't need the snow that Vancover really needed?  Just a few thoughts for the weekend that we all will be snowed in due to the SNOW!!!!

Feb 23, 2010

are you waiting for the answers for other post?

In a past post published previously (nice alliteration!) a couple of colors had to be chosen as favorites.  Well here are the CORRECT answers:

Blue v. Red A:  Red

Black v. Brown A: Brown

Yellow v. Grey A: Grey

Gold v. Orange A: Orange

The results are the colors Red(Scarlet Red)/Grey OSU (loser, Michigan); and,
                                           Brown/Orange Browns (loser Steelers)

:+))