Analyzing the Huskies - Marquette & New Mexico Games

Some notes from the Huskies two NCAA Tournament wins

• The Huskies GO-TO players are playing at a very high level in both games

• Quincy Pondexter is averaging 18 points, 8 boards, 2 steals & 2 blocks
• Isaiah Thomas is averaging 17 points,7.5 assists & is 7 of 12 from beyond the arc
• Matthew Bryan-Amaning is averaging 13 points, 6 boards & 2.5 blocks
•  
• The Huskies bench play has been superb
• The Huskies bench is averaging 24 points so far this tourney, outscoring opposing benches 24-4 against Marquette and 24-11 against New Mexico.

• Elston Turner has been big from three
• Turner has come through in both games off the bench, going 6-10 from beyond the arc. Not only that, but it's clear that his confidence is high and his stroke is dialed-in like never before seen this season.  Turner brings a legitimate deep threat off the bench to compliment Thomas and Pondexter. 

• The Huskies are peaking at the right time
• It has been widely publicized that the Dawgs have been on a roll lately, winning nine straight games, including the Pac-10 tournament.  What is less looked at however is the fact the Huskies have won in essentially every type of game during that span.  There have been blowouts - UCLA by 29, New Mexico by 18 and Stanford by 15, but they have also kept their poise during nail-biters.  With wins against CAL by 4 and Marquette by 2, they have proven that they are on a mission to win no matter what.

One final note/thought that I have had throughout this tournament was captured perfectly in the below article by Ray Ratto, where Ratto draws light on the lack of coverage that the Huskies are getting in the media. Take a look:

Huskies carrying crown for Cinderella stories into Sweet 16

Major League Baseball Ponders Radical Realignment Plan

Today I read a very interesting article by Tom Verducci, one of my favorite Sports Illustrated columnists, on the radical proposal that the MLB is considering regarding realignment.  Essentially, as Verducci put it, the MLB is considering an idea, "in which teams would not be fixed to a division, but free to change divisions from year-to-year based on geography, payroll and their plans to contend or not." 

What this rule change would do is give teams like the Tampa Bay Rays a chance to switch divisions, leaving the AL East and the powerhouses of the Yankees and Red Sox, to a division like the much weaker AL Central where the Rays would have a realistic shot every year of winning the division. 
Take the 2009 season for example - at the conclusion of the regular season the Rays finished in third place behind the Red Sox (AL Wild-Card champions) and the division champion Yankees.  They finished the year 84-78, a whopping 19 games out of the pennant race.  If those same Rays would have been in the AL Central however, they would have been only 2 1/2 games behind the AL Central champion Twins.

This move I believe would be greatly beneficial to the MLB, for a number of reasons.

1. It would allow a more balanced playing field for teams like the Rays, who are in the top echelon of the American League, to compete year in and year out.
2. It would promote tighter pennant races for all three divisions.
3. It would allow lower payroll teams to vie for a chance to play in October.

All I can say is that I am presently surprised that the MLB is being more proactive at looking at the system of things, and trying to better the game. Even if this doesn't come to fruition, it's a move in the right direction to have the discussion.

Here is the link to the Tom Verducci piece:

Selig, committee considering radical realignment plan

The State of the Oregon Duck Football Program

This past season and now well into the off-season, the Oregon Duck's football program has experienced some significant problems with regard to player behavior.  Let's take a look at the incident that many people think started the behavioral issues.

Legarrette Blount made headline's everywhere by punching a Boise State football player after a tough loss, essentially blind-siding the opposing player with a sucker punch that landed him an 8 game suspension by Oregon head coach Chip Kelly.  On top of that, Blunt also was seen after the punch yelling and trying to fight fans at Boise State.  Chip Kelly initially made a very strong statement by suspending the running back for the entire season, but in what critics are now calling a detrimental move to team discipline, he reinstated Blunt after 8 games.

Critics are now citing this reinstatement as a detrimental move to the program, as four Oregon players have been arrested in the last three weeks.  Let's examine what the reinstatement of Blunt did:

Let's make an assumption here; Blunt's athletic ability did have an impact on his reinstatement.  Consider this - if a backup punter had acted the same way, is there any chance that the player would be reinstated?  Never.  Instead he would be marked as an example, a scapegoat, plain and simple.  The fact that Blunt had the potential to help Oregon down the home stretch did lead to his return to the team, and sent a very bad message to players - if you make a mistake, but are a talented player, we'll give you a second chance.  Since that incident, the following incidents have occurred:

• Players allegedly involved in a brawl or retaliation for brawl. [Rob Beard, Mike Bowlin, Matt Simms].
• Player allegedly beat up girlfriend. [LaMichael James]. 
• Player arrested for allegedly driving under the influence. [Kiko Alonso]. 
• Player dismissed after publicly challenging Chip Kelly's authority. [Jamere Holland].
• Players accused - but not charged - in stealing items from fraternity house. [Jeremiah Masoli, Garrett Embry].

The state of Oregon football is in trouble, that is for certain.  Chip Kelly better get a grip on his team, and quick, or we could see boosters calling for his head.  

There should be a clear set of rules for all academic students putting on a uniform, these are college students, not professional athletes.  Putting on that uniform is a privilege, not a right.  If Kelly does not lay down some hard-and-fast guidelines for his program, Oregon will become a laughing stock. 

Here are a few links on the Duck's various problems:

Oregon football: Chip Kelly's interview with John Canzano (audio) 

Oregon’s troubles are traceable to ‘the punch’ 

Oregon football: Which allegation against the Ducks troubles you most? (Poll) 

Trouble for the England National Team

As it has been widely publicized, especially in Europe, the England National Team has experienced some considerable controversy over the John Terry, Wayne Bridge situation.  For those that don't know, it was confirmed that then England Captain John Terry had an affair with England teammate Wayne Bridge's girlfriend, and mother to his children.

So far Terry has already been stripped of his captaincy, and now even more drama has been stirred up.

The latest news is that Bridge has declined to join the England World Cup Team, as he reportedly told pals: “Terry makes me sick to my stomach. He betrayed me.”

Now the question on everyone's mind; is this the right decision by Bridge?

From my point of view, Bridge is standing behind two principles by making this stand:

1. He cannot stand the idea of being in the same locker room or on the same pitch as a man who betrayed him as a teammate and as a friend, and lost his trust.  I stand behind this point 100%.  Would anyone be able to stand being in that kind of proximity to a man that had committed adultery with your childrens mother?  I certainly would not.  Well maybe I would, but only to inflict some kind of physical harm to that person.
2. Bridge believes that being on the same team as Terry would serve as a huge distraction to the team, which would be detrimental to unity and comradery.  When you are preparing for a World Cup game, the last thing you want on your mind is to be worried about the mental state of two players who have a conflict over women.   

In my humble opinion, although it is NEVER easy to pass up an opportunity to join your country's World Cup team, I agree with Bridge.  I would have done the same thing in his position.  Furthermore, I find it absolutely ludicrous that people infer that his decision is selfish.  If anything it is noble, trying to keep the World Cup team focused on one thing - the game.  No matter the state of the England defense due to injury, I stand by Bridge's decision.


Also, I hope this decision makes Terry and Bridge's ex-girlfriend Vanessa Perroncel feel sick to their stomachs, as they deserve.

ESPN reports on the matter.
Bridge refuses England call up

The Mirror UK reports on the matter.
Wayne Bridge quits England team over John Terry "betrayal"

Sports Update

Its been a little while since my last post, as my sports viewing has gone down considerably lately.  This is mainly because:

1. The NFL season has come to an end, and thus, life is not quite as grand.  The majority of my writing lately had been NFL playoff talk, so the absence of the pigskin has cut into my writing a bit.  The Sabbath has truly been a day of rest for me lately.
2. The MLB spring training has, for the most part, not started yet.  Soon I will be posting quite regularly on the latest news, transactions, fantasy updates and everything else under the sun.  Until then however, news is light.
3. The other sport I enjoy blogging about, MLS Soccer, is also in its off-season and has been relatively silent lately.  

Having said all this, I'm working on my picks for the upcoming Fantasy Baseball season, which will be coming in the next week days... I am starting to get excited for America's past-time!

News Around the MLB

Giants reach deal with Lincecum
The Giants have reached a preliminary two-year, $23 million dollar deal with ace Tim Lincecum. This deal will avoid arbitration for the two-time Cy Young award winner and the Bay-Area team. The proposed arbitration deal would have been a one-year contract for roughly 10-12 million.

Frank Thomas announces retirement
Frank Thomas announced his retirement today, after a 19-season career in which he hit 521 homers and won two American League MVP awards.

Mariners re-sign Chris Seddon and Guillermo Quiroz
Minor news for the M's, as they resigned a few players to minor league contracts with an invite to Spring Training.

Free agent Washburn awaits 'right offer'
Jared Washburn was traded last year at the all-start break from the M's to the Tigers, and at that point made it known that this off-season he would like to come back to the Emerald City if a offer was given.  Some months later however, he is a free-agent and has yet to sign with anyone.  Where will Wash end up?  It's unlikely he will settle in Seattle, who has a plethora of starting pitching depth...

Johnny Damon nearing decision
Johnny Damon looks like he will sign with the Detroit Tigers, who are offering more money than the proposed bid by the Atlanta Braves.  If Damon were to sign with the Tigers, he would also have the opportunity to DH this season, something that he would not be able to do for the NL Braves.

Saints Win Super Bowl 44: 2009/2010 NFL Predictions - 7-4

When all was said and done, my 2009/2010 Playoff predictions came out 7-4 - not too bad...  There were some speed bumps along the way [I fully expected the Cowboys and Packers to go deeper in the playoffs], but I think I did a pretty good job of putting my favoritism aside and picking the teams that I actually thought would win, over those I wanted to win.  Here is a recap of my playoff picks this post-season, and a recap of Super Bowl 44.

I was anticipating that the Saints would win Super Bowl 44, but never did I expect it to happen the way it did.  The men from New Orleans play superbly, clearly frustrating Peyton Manning and the Colts offense, as well playing with astounding efficiency on offense and making some gutsy calls in special teams.


Correct
Saints win 1st NFL title by beating Colts 31-17 
Drew Brees tied a Super Bowl record for most completions in a game [32] and was named the Super Bowl MVP after going 32-39, with 288 yds and 2 TDs.  Efficiency was Brees' middle name Sunday, throwing with an accuracy that is seldom seen in games of that magnitude, targeting eight different New Orleans receivers. 

Down 10-points early, the Saints did not give up, even going for a risky 4th down play near the Colts goal-line.  The Saints didn't convert, but instead amped up the intensity of defense and got the ball back and promptly kicked a field goal to make the game 10-3, then added another before half to make it 10-6. 

Showing their determination to do anything and everything to win the game, Sean Peyton called a gutsy onside kick at the beginning of the second half which the Saints recovered, and ultimately seemed to shift the momentum in the Saints favor.

The Saints defense also played terrific, limiting Peyton Manning, the NFL MVP, to just one score [a field-goal] in the final three quarters.  Tracy Porter picked off a Manning pass with 3:12 left in the game and returned it for a touchdown to seal the victory.

New Orleans is celebrating its first Super Bowl victory ever.

Mariners Update: Bedard Resigned

The Mariners resigned pitcher Erik Bedard to a one year, incentive-laden contract this week.  This comes as good news for the M's if they can get Bedard healthy for the second half of the 2010 season, as he is rehabbing from shoulder surgery.   A starting rotation of Felix Hernandez, Cliff Lee and Erik Bedard down the stretch would be one of the best in the MLB. 

Bedard, Mariners reach 1-year deal

Predictions: SUPER BOWL XLIV

After the Conference Championship games I am 6-4 in my predictions this post-season, hoping to finish 7-4 when all is said and done.  Last week I was fortunate to be correct on both of my predictions.  

Here we go, SUPER BOWL XLIV


AFC vs. NFC


New Orleans Saints vs. Indianapolis Colts 
Sunday, February 7th - 3:25 p.m. PST, CBS

Common sense tells me to go with the Indianapolis Colts.  They have Peyton Manning after all, the MVP of the 2010 regular season, a slew of talented wide-receivers [Wayne, Garcon, Collie and Clark] and a speedy defense that could present Drew Brees and company with a difficult time scoring points.  My heart however, tells me otherwise.

The Saints story-book season is going to be tested on Sunday, and one key Colts injury just may swing the tide in the opposite direction.  The big question mark is whether the Colts DE, Dwight Freeney, will be able to play or not.  Freeney is nursing an ankle injury he sustained in the Conference Championship game against the Jets, and is questionable for the contest.  If Freeney is out, that is a big advantage for the Saints.  One of the premier pass rushers in the league, Freeney complements DE Robert Mathis on the other side of the line, who team up to cause havoc on opposing offenses.  With just Mathis rushing the quarterback, the Saints won't have to attribute as many men in protection and can focus more on the down-field attack.   

For the Saints they must give Drew Brees time in the pocket so he can exploit the Colts secondary.  If given the time, Brees can spread the ball around to any of his talented weapons in the passing attack [Colston, Mechum, Shockey and Bush out of the backfield] and keep this high octane offense in gear. Important as well is the balancing the passing attack with the running-by-committee system of Reggie Bush and Pierre Thomas, especially considering the Colts featured a sub-par rushing defense that ranked #24 in the league this season.  Without Freeney, the Saints have the ability of limit the pass rush of the Colts.

For the Colts, they need to protect Manning against a Saints defense that has pounded opposing quarterbacks in the past two games [Warner and Favre].  Beyond that, putting the ball in Peyton Manning's hands should always keep them in the game, especially considering the Saints have given up a lot on defense this season; defensively the Saints are #25 in the league in total yards and #20 in total points, not a recipe for success against the game's best quarterback.   

This game has me absolutely torn.  I believe in Peyton Manning, and I know without a doubt that he is the best player on either side of the ball, and the most clutch.  Having said that, I just can't discredit the Saints momentum and ability to physically dominate the opposing quarterbacks in their path.  I see this being a very close game, with the Saints coming up with a miraculous win.
Saints win Super Bowl XLIV. 

Links - Thoughts

The Mariners have agreed to terms with Catcher/First Baseman Ryan Garko on Monday, adding more depth to the lineup.  Garko will be expected to platoon with Kotchman at first base, and could see some action at catcher as well, although the latter is much less likely.  Garko split time between Cleveland and San Francisco last season.  Here is what Jack Z said of Garko:

"We think he is a player that adds versatility as a right-handed hitter with experience playing first base, designated hitter and catcher," Mariners general manager Jack Zduriencik said.

The Hot Stone League - Mariners agree to terms with Ryan Garko


The M's have the city of Seattle excited again after a tremendous and exciting off-season.  As you can see, this is affecting the fanfest positively.

The Hot Stone League - Fanfest attendance off the charts


Here is an article on the new coaching staff of the Seahawks.

Carroll convenes Seahawks' new staff

Interesting Article on the M's by Geoff Baker

This is an interesting article on the Mariners and their 2010 payroll...

On the Mariners and their payroll

Predictions: After Conference Championship Weekend - 2-0

After the third-round of NFL playoff games - 'Conference Championship' weekend, my predictions for the 2 games ended up 2-0...  Thus far, I'm 6-4.  Let's recap.


Correct
Saints beat Vikings in OT, reach 1st Super Bowl
The Saints absolutely battered Brett Farve, forcing 6 turnovers on their way to a 31-28 overtime victory in New Orleans.  The most crucial of turnovers came late in the 4th quarter when Favre threw an ill advised pass intended for Sidney Rice, which was picked off by the Saints and ended the Vikings sure attempting a field goal.  In overtime the Saints won the toss and promptly drove down the field to kick the game winning field goal.

Remarkable was the fact that despite the 6 turnovers, the Vikings were still in the game until the very end.  Adrian Peterson had four fumbles, and three lost, despite having a good day otherwise, rushing for 122 yds
and 3 TDs.

Drew Brees performed well, despite being more inaccurate than usual.  Brees finished 17-31, for 197 yds and 3 TDs.  The Saints dome, which was rocking the entire game, celebrated for the first time their beloved home team's first trip to the Super Bowl.


Correct
Manning, Colts rally past Jets, reach Super Bowl
The storyline was predictable, Peyton Manning played his usual efficient game, finishing 26-39, for 377 yds and 3 TDs, and led the Colts to their second Super Bowl appearance under his quarterbacking.

Most notably absent from the game was Reggie Wayne, who was blanketed by Jets defender Darrell Revis.  Manning, looking for other targets, found Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie early and often however; Garcon finished with 151 yds and 1 TD, while Collie had 123 yds and 1 TD.

Running back Shonn Green's early injury didn't offer any help for the Jets running attack, who finished with just 86 yards.  Sanchez and the Jets had early success in passing game, but was shut-down in the second half by the Colts defense.

Peyton Manning and the Colts will play the New Orleans Saints in the Super Bowl, the team that Peyton's father Archie Manning used to play for.

Predictions: Conference Championships

After the Divisional round I am 4-4 in my predictions, with tough losses in the Vikings vs. Cowboys and Jets vs. Chargers games.  With three games left, let's see if I can finish this postseason 7-4.

Conference Championship
 
AFC


New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts 
Sunday, January 24th - Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis), 12:00 p.m. PST, CBS

This is an extremely tough game to call.  My heart tells me to shoot for the moon and pick the resurgent Jets, but my mind tells me that Payton Manning will once again lead his team to victory, no matter what form the game takes.  What tips the scales in my mind is looking at the Colts impressive defensive outing last week, limiting Ray Rice and the Ravens running attack.  I believe that the combination of Thomas Jones and Shonn Greene will get their yards when all is said and done on Sunday, but the Colts will limit their totals enough to win the game.  

The Colts have so many weapons that even if Darrell Revis does shut down Reggie Wayne, the Jets still have to cover Dallas Clark, Pierre Garcon and Austin Collie.  


In the end, I just can't see Peyton Manning losing this game, he is too good and too clutch. 
Colts win at home.


NFC


Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints
Sunday, January 24th - 3:40 p.m. PST, FOX

Brett Favre and the Vikings against Drew Brees and the Saints, you can't ask for a better quarterback match-up than that.  Last week really showed me how good the Vikings really are, but then again, the same was true for the Saints.

The key to this game will be how the Saints can handle the front line of the Viking defense, and if they can buy Brees some time to throw.  Regardless of how well the Vikings defense played last week against the Cowboys, they will be facing the best offense in the NFL on Sunday, especially at home.

For the Vikings, they need to protect Favre, and especially if the game is close, get a good day from Adrian Peterson on the ground.  Peterson has hardly been heard from in the postseason, and playing a balanced game could be key for the Vikings.

To say that I am completely stumped on this pick is an understatement, but in the end I just the Saints having too many weapons on offense (Colston, Meachem, Shockey, Bush and Thomas).  The Saints will get an outstanding performance on the offensive side, and just enough from their underrated defense.
Saints win at home.  

MLB News

Tim Lincecum files for arbitration
Compromise makes most sense for Lincecum, Giants

Angels sign Joel Pineiro
Angels reach two-year agreement with Pineiro

Andre Ethier resigns with Dodgers
OF Ethier, Dodgers agree to $15.25M, 2-year deal

Red Sox resign Papelbon, Ramirez and Delcarmen
Papelbon, Ramirez, Delcarmen agree with Red Sox

Cardinals resign Ludwick
Ludwick, Cardinals agree to $5.45M, 1-year deal


Hearing about Lincecum and his negotiations with the Giants got me to thinking - has their ever been a weirder looking pitching ace in the MLB?!

Can you choose the Cy Young winner?

Mariners Update - Extension for Felix

It's being reported that the Mariners are in the process of signing Felix Hernandez to a 5 year extension in the neighborhood of 75-80 million dollars.  If these reports are true, this is very good news for the M's.  Felix, second of the Cy Young voting in the 2009 season, had a tremendous season going 19-5 record with a 2.46 ERA.

Felix is still just 23 years of age, and locking him up for a long-term deal have make the M's brass that much more comfortable knowing that they will have his services for another 5 years.  Felix will be 28 when the deal expires, making it possible for him to sign two max contracts in his career, something that few pitchers area able to do.


Source: Hernandez re-ups with Mariners

Predictions: After Divisional Weekend - 2-2

After the second-round of NFL playoff games - 'Divisional Weekend,' my predictions for the 4 games ended up 2-2... Let's recap.


Correct
Saints rout Cardinals 45-14, reach NFC title game
Drew Brees, Reggie Bush and the New Orleans Saints obliterated the Arizona Cardinals, 45-14 on Saturday, moving the ball at will on the Cardinals defense.  The Saint defense played well in the victory as well, pressuring and frustrating Kurt Warner and company, forcing 2 turnovers.  An important play for the Saints came when they knocked out, for a short time, Kurt Warner just seconds after an interception.  Bobby McCray blind-sided the quarterback and Warner was clearly never the same after that.

The stars of the game were Reggie Bush, who finished with 84 yds rushing, 1 TD, 24 yds receiving and 109 yds and 1 TD in the return game; and Drew Brees, who finished 23-32, 247 yds and 3 TDs.


Correct
Colts beat Ravens 20-3, advance to AFC title game
Manning led the top seeded Colts over the Ravens, 20-3, in what looked like a sure Colts victory almost from the outset.  At halftime the score read 17-3, with the Ravens looking dejected and unlikely to put up much of a fight.  Manning finished the day going 30-44, 246 yds, 2 TDs and 1 INT.  Mannings interception by Ed Reed could have shifted the momentum, if it weren't for the astounding hustle play by Pierre Garcon, who chased down Reed and stripped the football from behind.

Flacco and the Ravens offense struggled mightily against the fast Colts defense, who pressured Flacco throughout the contest, forcing him into 2 INTs.  They also stripped Ravens running back Ray Rice after a crucial 20-yd run, to secure any doubt of their victory.


Incorrect
Favre, Vikings advance with 34-3 win over Cowboys
Brett Favre and the Minnesota Vikings dismantled the Dallas Cowboys, 34-3, playing with a ferociousness on defense that left the Tony Romo and the Cowboys offense completely unable to move the ball at all.  The Vikings defensive line dominated the Cowboys, who failed to protect Romo with any consistency.

Offensively, Farve connected with Sydney Rice for 3 TDs, who had a breakout game in the receivers first playoff game.  Rice finished the game with 6 catches for 141 yds and 3 TDs, while Favre went 15-24, for 234 yds and 4 TDs.

Absent again for the Vikings, despite their win, was Adrian Peterson.  Peterson recorded just 63 yds on 23 carries, averaging just 2.4 yds per carry.  Peterson has not rushed for over 100 yards in his past eight games.



Incorrect
Sanchez, Greene lead Jets to shocker over Chargers
The New York Jets pulled off their second upset this post season, winning 17-14 over the San Diego Chargers.  Playing with their usual brand of football - tough defense and a grind-it-out running game, they frustrated the Charger offense and never let them get comfortable all day.  Rivers, who got picked off two times in the contest, looked out of sync.  Rivers finished the day 27-40 for 298 yds, 1 TD, 2 INTs and 3 Rushes for 4 yds and 1 TD.  

Led by the phenomenal defensive play from cornerback Darrelle Revis, who made a circus play for a ball on the ground to intercept a Rivers pass intended for Jackson, the Jets are rolling into the AFC Championship  game with a full head of steam.  The Jets are 7-1 in their past 8 games, averaging opponents to just under 10 points a game in that span. 



New Bracket
Although I expected the Chargers to win on Sunday, I can help but feel happy for the NY Jets, who played their hearts out in San Diego.  The Cowboys complete meltdown did surprise me, but I am not surprised that Favre and the Vikings played well.  This weekend should highlight two very intriguing games.


AFC CHAMPIONSHIP
New York Jets @ Indianapolis Colts
Sunday, January 24th - Lucas Oil Stadium (Indianapolis), 12:00 p.m. PST, CBS


NFC CHAMPIONSHIP

Minnesota Vikings @ New Orleans Saints
Sunday, January 24th - 3:40 p.m. PST, FOX



Stay tuned for my picks for next weekend's games.  So far I am at .500, 4-4.

Quick Game-Day Notes

I wanted to post the NFL Expert Picks - Divisional Playoffs from ESPN before the games get underway today.  By the looks of it, Golic, Hoge, Mortensen, Schefter & Schlereth all have the same teams winning as I do.  Smart men.

Mariners Update

I wanted to take a break from football - NFL Playoff predictions and Seahawks talk alike, and highlight some notes on the Mariners off-season transactions.

As far as the projected lineup for next season, here is what we are looking at if the season were to start today:


Projected Batting Order & Positions
[Stats are from the 2009 season]

Name	Pos	AVG	OBP	Runs	Hits	HR	RBI	SB
1. Ichiro	RF	.352	.386	88	225	11	46	26
2. C. Figgins	3B	.298	.395	114	183	5	54	42
3. J. Lopez	2B	.272	.303	69	167	25	96	3
4. C. Kotchman	1B	.268	.339	37	103	7	48	1
5. M. Bradley	LF	.257	.378	61	101	12	40	2
6. Griffey Jr.	DH	.214	.324	44	83	19	57	0
7. J. Wilson	SS	.292	.255	37	95	5	39	0
8. F.Gutierrez	CF	.283	.339	85	160	18	70	16
9. R. Johnson*	CF	.213	.289	21	55	2	27	1

While some of these statistics are misleading due to the fact that Kotchman, Bradley, Griffey, Wilson and Johnson averaged only 110 out of 162 games last season, there are still some glaring holes offensively.

First, the power potential for this squad is atrocious. The Mariners, based on last years numbers, have no slugger that hit either the 30 HR plateau, or the 100 RBI mark. The logical choice to fulfill at least the deficiency in the M's HR total would have been to resign Russell Branyan, who finished the year with 31 HR and 76 RBI, but the M's chose to go another route. They opted instead to trade for first-baseman Casey Kotchman, traditional a gap hitter with minus power, thereby letting the slugging Branyan sign elsewhere. Let's hope the M's have some insider information that we don't know about regarding Branyan's health, otherwise this swap looks like a poor choice based on our lack of power at the plate.

The M's clearly need to make a move for a left-handed power hitter, whether that is a blockbuster trade for a guy like Adrian Gonzalez, or sign a veteral DH like Hank Blalock. At the bare minimum, I would much prefer a Blalock-Kotchman platoon at first base to just giving Kotchman the reins in 2010.

One thing that does stand out offensively is the Mariner's ability to get on base, score runs and steal bases. With an Ichiro-Figgins top of the order, there will be plenty of opportunities for the M's starting pitchers to begin home games with an early lead in the bottom of the first inning. Also, look for Jack Wilson and Franklin Gutierrez to have better offensive numbers in 2010. Wilson is coming off a year in which he switched leagues (from the NL to the AL) and struggled with injuries, while Gutierrez should continue to improve at the plate as a part of his natural progression as a play, much like he did from the beginning to the end of last season.

One controversial move that the M's made this off-season was acquiring the troubled outfielder Milton Bradley. As far as Bradley goes, there is always more to him than just the numbers, and his success as a Mariner will rely heavily on how he handles himself in the clubhouse. If Bradley can contain his temper and get comfortable here in Seattle, I am willing to bet he will greatly improve the M's in 2010. Bradley is said to be a big admirer of Ken Griffey Jr, and if he can take him under his wing with regard to his behavior, I see Seattle working out for Bradley.

*Rob Johnson is rehabbing - (right hip surgery in October 2009, left hip surgery in November 2009, right wrist surgery in November 2009) and might not be ready for opening day.


Starting Rotation

Name	R/L	IP	W	L	ERA	WHIP	CG	S
1. Félix Hernandez	R	238	19	5	2.49	1.14	2	1
2. Cliff Lee	L	231	14	13	3.22	1.24	6	2
3. Rowland-Smith	L	96	5	4	3.74	1.18
4. Ian Snell	R	64	5	2	4.20	1.55
5a. Doug Fister	R	61	3	4	4.13	1.28
5b. Luke French	L	38	3	3	6.63	1.87

With the addition of Cliff Lee, the M's starting rotation looks to be the strength of the organization. With two legitimate #1 starters, this will be a tough team to beat, especially in a long series. The depth of the rotation somewhat relies on the M's third starter, Ryan Rowland-Smith, who has showed flashes of brilliance, but has been inconsistent due to injuries. If he can solidify the #3 spot, and stay away from injuries, the M's should have a very strong starting pitching staff.


Closer

Name	R/L	IP	SV	W	L	ERA	WHIP
David Aardsma	R	71	38	3	6	2.52	1.16

Aardsma, after taking the closer duties from Brandon Morrow within the first month of last season, did well in converting 38 saves to just 4 blow save opportunities. With the addition of Cliff Lee, an improved M's team and a year of experience under his belt, look for Aardsma to have a better 2010.


Relief Staff

Name	R/L	W	L	ERA	K	BB	WHIP	Age
Brandon League	R	3	6	4.58	76	21	1.25	26
Gaby Hernandez	R	No Stats Available						23
Garrett Olson	L	3	5	5.60	47	34	1.41	26
Jason Vargas	L	3	6	4.91	54	24	1.33	26
Mark Lowe	R	2	7	3.26	69	29	1.25	26
Shawn Kelley	R	5	4	4.50	41	9	1.17	25
Yusmeiro Petit	R	3	10	5.82	74	34	1.52	25

Here is what I love about the M's relief pitchers, the average age is 25 years old. Zduriencik is clearly going young and building for the future. The M's are bringing back their three best relief pitchers Aardsma, Lowe and Kelley, and have added some youth with Petit and Hernandez. One improvement over last season is that the M's will be starting out the year with two lefties, which is two more than at the start of the 2009 season.


Major Off-Season Moves

Here is an overall overview of the off-season moves.

Acquired:

• Casey Kotchman - (traded from Boston Red Sox for Bill Hall)
  
• Chone Figgins (signed)
• Cliff Lee (traded from Phillies in a 3-way trade with Toronto)
  
• Milton Bradley (traded from Chicago Cubs for Carlos Silva)
  
• Brandon League (traded from Toronto Blue Jays for Brandon Morrow)
• Yusmeiro Petit (claimed off waivers from Arizona Diamondbacks)

Dropped:

• Adriane Beltre - (signed with Boston)
  
• Bill Hall - (traded to Boston Red Sox for Casey Kotchman)
  
• Brandon Morrow - (traded to Toronto Blue Jays for Brandon League)
• Carlos Silva - (traded to the Chicago Cubs for Milton Bradley)
  
• Chris Jakubauskas - (claimed off waivers by the Pittsburgh Pirates)
  
• Endy Chavez - (has yet to sign)
• Kenji Johjima - (retired/moved back to Japan)
  
• Russell Branyan - (has yet to sign)

Other Moves

• Signed free-agent outfielder Corey Patterson
  
• Re-signed free-agent shortstop Josh Wilson
  
• Claimed pitcher Kanekoa Texeira from the Yankees' Trenton farm team in the Rule 5 Draft
• Acquired Minor League outfielder Johermyn Chavez from Toronto (in Morrow deal).
• Signed free-agent catcher Josh Bard and right-handed reliever Chad Cordero to Minor League contract.

Zduriencik
I love the work that Jack Zduriencik has done so far, especially with the addition of Cliff Lee and the speedy Chone Figgins, but let's hope he's not done with regard to adding some power at the plate. I have a suspicion that the current roster will basically be the same one that we see during spring training and the start of the season, but I still think that a mid-season move is not out of the question. Look for the M's to make some moves before the trade deadline if it becomes apparent a power hitter is needed.


Here are a few more news links on the M's moves:

Report: Mariners talking to Tatis

Gutierrez agrees to four-year contract extension

Zduriencik: 'We'll take our chances and see where we go'

DH denied: Martinez falls short in first Hall vote

Griffey excited for 22nd and possibly final season

A Hypothetical Felix Hernandez Extension

Addressing The Kotchman/LaRoche Situation

Does ANYONE Really Enjoy Reading Steve Kelley?

I certainly do not. Let's take a look at his article on the possibility of the Seahawks hiring Pete Carroll, before it became reality.

This mindless rant chronicles, in Kelley's mind, how awful the Pete Carroll hire would potentially be if the Seahawks chose to go in that direction (they did). Here are my favorite excepts from that Seattle Times article, which can be found in its entirety here - Picking Pete Carroll would make bad situation worse:


"Pete Carroll? Really? Is that all the Seahawks have for their beleaguered fans?

Pete Carroll? The guy who lasted one season with the New York Jets and finished 6-10? The guy who was fired after three seasons as the coach of the Patriots?

Pete Carroll? Isn't he a college coach? A rah-rah guy? The ace recruiter, who stacked his USC rosters with two of everything, like a modern day Noah?

Pete Carroll? Is that the Seahawks' best answer for these past two losing seasons?

Pete Carroll? Are the Hawks really making him president as well as coach? Giving him Holmgren-like powers, more power than Carroll's had in any job ever? Based on what NFL track record, exactly?

Pete Carroll? Are the Seahawks serious? Isn't this just another in a series of ham-handed moves by this once-proud franchise?

Is Pete Carroll the best solution for a better Seahawks tomorrow?

Pete Carroll?"

Now, I like a rant every now and then as much as the next guy, but Kelley's article produces very little in the way of a convincing argument and instead relies solely on his repetitious use of Pete Carroll's name. He is quick to cite Carroll's past NFL track record as a negative (33-31), yet glosses over his astounding college coaching record (97–19).

This is so clearly an article written by a man with a simple dislike for an individual (Pete Carroll) or a decision (hiring a high profile college head coach to be the head coach of an NFL franchise), but what it is NOT is a level-headed argument based on the facts.

Finally, here is my favorite part:

"Now the Seahawks' decision-makers appear to be going for the glitter. They've got stars in their eyes. They are blinded by Carroll's college success, forgetting how poorly he did as an NFL head coach."

Steve, he was 33-31, which if I'm not mistaken, isn't awful for a first time head coach in the NFL. This time around, Carroll has a track record of success at USC, and also his experience from his first NFL stint to guide him in his new position.

I think Carroll sums it up best himself:

"I was not at my best in New York. I can't tell you how far away I was then. I was not at my best in New England. I think the Seahawks have benefited from the fact of what I've been through."


Steve Kelley?

Really? The guy who writes meaningless opinion pieces with no substantiated evidence for his claims and assertions?

Really Seattle Times? Steve Kelley?


[Steve Kelley is a Seattle Times Sports columnist]

More Info On Pete Carroll

Carroll has the power, no question


Seattle introduces Carroll as coach