tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-52768055040897786642024-02-02T01:58:43.921-05:00Tampa Sports ReviewComplete coverage of the Bucs, Rays, Lightning, and more....The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.comBlogger12125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-37043771874275690142007-08-02T13:21:00.000-04:002007-08-02T13:55:34.923-04:002007 TSR Bucs Preview: Special Teams<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.jaguars.com/drafttest/rd6apic.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://www.jaguars.com/drafttest/rd6apic.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />Whenever you think of special teams and the Bucs, you think about the one thing that has never happened in Tampa history: a kickoff return. I find it hard to believe that after 30 years, we have still not returned one kick in a regular season game. Could this be the year? No, probably not, but we can wish can't we? We will break down the special teams position by position, and give our expectations.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">KR</span><br /><br />The Bucs will still have leading return man from last year Michael Pittman. We don't think Pittman is a very good return man, he is a straight runner, and isn't the best at making cuts. If Chad Owens makes the team, look for him to take over return duties. Chad can be the spark plug this team needs on special teams.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Prediction: If Owens makes the team, he will return a kickoff for a touchdown, and become a Tampa Bay Legend.</span><br /><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">PR</span><br /><br />The Bucs will most likely use Mark Jones, Chad Owens, or Ike Hilliard. We would like to see Jones or Owens, although Owens may not make the team. Jones has proven to be effective in the return game, and would be welcomed back to that position this year.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Prediction: If Owens makes the team, him and Jones will most likely share duties, with the hot hand taking the majority of the returns.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">K</span><br /><br />Matt Bryant was 17-22 last year, but perfect from inside of 40 yards. He was also perfect outside of 60 yards, as he made his only attempt: a 62-yard game winner, in the most memorable moment of the season. Look for Matt to be his ordinary self, not the best kicker in the league, but also not the worst. He can be counted on for those clutch kicks, which is a highly underrated quality.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Prediction: Bryant goes 21-26, with 1 miss inside of 30 yards. He will however kick 2 game winning field goals.....thats right, were gonna win at least 2 games.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">P</span><br /><br />Josh Bidwell may be the most underrated player on this Buccaneers squad, as he is so consistent. Bidwell is a great athlete for a punter, and it shows through his continued good health. Last year he averaged a solid 43.5 yds/punt. He only recorded 7 touchbacks last year to go along with 20 inside the red zone.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Prediction: Mr. Consistency keeps it up, by averaging 44 yards, and continuing to be a top punter in the league.</span><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZqW8Hd8qStN3hBWqZF-ocYG_8dmi3VRdLjsEfhJ5iQgI1HhtjTmWp0rtf48wr-MMcM_yx0E1ssf7qo5FHcT-vE4Nmwc84M908kmNXwcoEPiNy2wMPsLMdEWdbBDm7iiM4PYL2tGphvw/s1600-h/BucsSeasonPreview.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimZqW8Hd8qStN3hBWqZF-ocYG_8dmi3VRdLjsEfhJ5iQgI1HhtjTmWp0rtf48wr-MMcM_yx0E1ssf7qo5FHcT-vE4Nmwc84M908kmNXwcoEPiNy2wMPsLMdEWdbBDm7iiM4PYL2tGphvw/s200/BucsSeasonPreview.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094162580027158898" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-51034857662708612652007-08-02T09:14:00.000-04:002007-08-02T09:34:55.056-04:00So thats what a bullpen looks like??<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.biscuitsbaseball.com/team/images/Salas.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.biscuitsbaseball.com/team/images/Salas.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />After sitting through the first half of the season, you begin to feel that <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">pre</span>-gag reflex around the 7<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">th</span> inning of games. The Devil Rays having a 1 run lead late in a game was like Michael Jackson in a daycare, only bad things were to come. All of a sudden, the Rays shuffle around the pen and make a couple moves, and that gag reflex has gone away.......for the moment at least. Last night the Rays bullpen combined for 6 innings of 2-hit shutout ball. Its amazing how just a couple changes in the clubhouse can change the overall confidence of a club. 3 of the 4 relief pitchers were pitchers that have been here since opening day, the difference between then and now was confidence. You can see it when your watching the game, not only in the pitchers but also in the hitters.<br /><br />CC was at it again going 3-4 with a homer, 2 <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">RBI's</span>, and a stolen base. He is doing all of this with a sore wrist, which he will luckily be able to rest today. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Jonny</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Gomes</span> hit another homer and <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">surprise</span>, <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">surprise</span>: no one was on base. Of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Jonny's</span> 12 homers, all but 3 have been solo shots. He is hitting a awful .153 with runners in scoring position. Hopefully he can start knocking in some runs, but only time will tell.<br /><br />Jason <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Hammel</span>, who started the game yesterday, pitched 3 innings. He gave up 2 runs, but then left the game with a injury. The club says it will be looked into further today, but they expect nothing serious.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuFkpEH_IhyjId_Iv87heSwsseLmUz0FkjU_FfsORiub2Qs2JFYd8g9cflw9A7sfMDRkPm-RnSMQFvL5aggr_CtokifngLeN5H6UaU4uzgHavxaitg9dy7UgnyCgNMTZENJ8EhTxN18Cc/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuFkpEH_IhyjId_Iv87heSwsseLmUz0FkjU_FfsORiub2Qs2JFYd8g9cflw9A7sfMDRkPm-RnSMQFvL5aggr_CtokifngLeN5H6UaU4uzgHavxaitg9dy7UgnyCgNMTZENJ8EhTxN18Cc/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5094095213465121122" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-38008058275794211932007-08-01T10:06:00.000-04:002007-08-01T10:24:37.584-04:002007 TSR Bucs Preview: Intangibles<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.tampabaymetro.com/Gruden.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.tampabaymetro.com/Gruden.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br />It is hard to place expectations on this season for the Bucs. With all of the changes in the offseason, we all hope for the best, but deep down you still have that sinking feeling its gonna be even worse than before. Jon Gruden is on the hot seat, and how he handles himself could be the deciding factor in the rest of the season. He is pretty much in a position where he needs to make the playoffs to keep his job, which could turn out to be great for the team, but it could also lead him to taking bigger risk's earlier in the season, that could end it before it really began.<br /><br />Last I checked, isn't having an awful season supposed to set you up with a cupcake schedule the following year? I'm not saying our schedule is too brutal, but 3 of our first 5 games are 2 away games at Seattle and Indianapolis and a home game against New Orleans. So we are already looking at a 2-3 start at best, then look to the fact that the other 2 games are against St. Louis and Carolina, whom are both respectable teams. Who knows maybe we can start 5-0, we can dream right? I just don't see us getting off to a good start, and if we start the season 1-4, you will see Gruden's tension showing, when we start going for it on 4th downs in the 3rd quarter.<br /><br />One strong attribute this team does have coming into the season is veteran leaders on both sides of the ball. On offense we have Jeff Garcia, who while new to this team bring a great on-field attitude that can only help this team, along with him is Joey Galloway, who is the epitome of a team player. On defense all I have to do is mention Derrick Brooks, along with Ronde and BK. They should be great at helping out the youngsters, such as Gaines Adams(who will have a lot of weight on his shoulders this year.)<br /><br />All in all there is good and bad going into the season, but looking at our schedule there shouldn't be any games below 32 degrees, so I'll mark that a positive and look forward to opening day.<br /><br />Tomorrow: Special Teams Breakdown<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAHM1EdVY-aV2IDf2OchmrX4DvOUcPNTs2moao8yv7C2mDLwiQgfyYOrC4eFq2R0IKSx4ZeobrCG_drF5D8rcGbqeILy9bUH_-9LrIvOBEtKFE1R-jnjEDFJfRumSukmWFyIZScshFE8/s1600-h/BucsSeasonPreview.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitAHM1EdVY-aV2IDf2OchmrX4DvOUcPNTs2moao8yv7C2mDLwiQgfyYOrC4eFq2R0IKSx4ZeobrCG_drF5D8rcGbqeILy9bUH_-9LrIvOBEtKFE1R-jnjEDFJfRumSukmWFyIZScshFE8/s200/BucsSeasonPreview.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093737408329625938" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-76494570707316455272007-08-01T09:41:00.000-04:002007-08-01T10:02:52.304-04:00A bat boy could do a better job<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper609/stills/268105s3.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper609/stills/268105s3.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />There are always jokes about losing teams, and how even a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">batboy</span> could do a better job than what the players are doing. Sometimes those jokes turn out to be true. Last night, the Rays were shutout 2-0, due in most part to a outstanding performance form ex-Devil Ray <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">batboy</span> Jesse <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Litsch</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Litsch</span> went for 6 2/3 innings, while keeping the Rays bats quiet. Meanwhile on the Rays side of the mound, E-<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Jax</span> threw one of his best games of the year going 6 innings while only giving up 1 run, and even more impressive, only 1 walk. Before the trade deadline the Rays bats could make excuses and blame all of the losses on pitching, but last night it all fell squarely on the shoulders of the Rays.<br /><br />Another <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">stat line</span> that stands out on the page is Casey <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Fossum</span> pitching a inning without giving up a run....is this the Casey <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Fossum</span> of old? Yes, it is!!!! But <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">don't</span> get too excited, because that guy sucked too. Now that the deadline has passed, and the Rays could clearly get nothing in Return for <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Fossum</span>, it is <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">officially</span> time to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">DFA</span> his ass, and bring up <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">Switzer</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">Fossum</span> offers up nothing. I would say to have him pitch batting practice before the game, but it wouldn't prepare the hitters for major league pitching. Sorry Casey, nothing personal, you just aren't good.... at all.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInkmvUlq464Mho8zDuaAep6UDD3wfXGK4JFfCgAsaJsU6-fRfNIL8uw5ek-Ki9n176xDYov0aSDLy9psgssNMPQRamN8lEUxQwovb21iediiA_4rOerEpD155bA_wUmdfsp5LScetrsU/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgInkmvUlq464Mho8zDuaAep6UDD3wfXGK4JFfCgAsaJsU6-fRfNIL8uw5ek-Ki9n176xDYov0aSDLy9psgssNMPQRamN8lEUxQwovb21iediiA_4rOerEpD155bA_wUmdfsp5LScetrsU/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093730648051102002" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-85007509865783593192007-07-31T11:50:00.000-04:002007-07-31T15:04:25.450-04:00CC Buys Everyone a Donut<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://sportsmedia.ign.com/sports/image/article/720/720964/carl-crawford-interview-20060725035522692-000.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://sportsmedia.ign.com/sports/image/article/720/720964/carl-crawford-interview-20060725035522692-000.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />Last night's game was one of the most amazing games that I have watched in the past 10 years. The game had its ups and downs, and ended with one of the most exciting moments in Rays history. Carl Crawford came up in the 11th just hoping for a walk, he wasn't even supposed to be playing, but was needed to pinch run earlier in the game. He took a swing and immediately grasped his wrist in pain, it was one of those moments where it was kind of painful to watch as a fan, because you could tell how much it was hurting him. Then all of a sudden, out of nowhere, Carl hits one to deep left-center field. Nobody could believe it.....especially Carl.<br /><br />Carl homerun was incredible, but what may be even more amazing is the fact that our bullpen went 4.1 innings without giving up a earned run. In that process, Grant Balfour made Andrew Friedman look like a genius. There is something about Balfour's mound presence that just makes you excited as a fan while watching him. Even the Dohmannator was able to escape a jam in the 11th. Al Reyes did his normal thing, although his fastball still seems like it isn't moving as much as it was at the beginning of the season, but his control is still impeccable.<br /><br />Sonny gave up 2 runs in the top of the first, and you sort of get that feeling in your stomach that it was going to be a long game. He ended up turning it around and pitching a good game, my favorite moment of his was picking a double play throw out of the dirt at first. Josh Wilson may end up being the unsung hero of the game, as if it were for his 2-out bottom of the ninth game-tying RBI single, CC wouldn't have gotten a chance to hit that homer. Even though we won, it will not stop me from complaining......the home plate umpire last night was downright awful to the Rays. We couldn't get a call going our way the whole game, he was very inconsistent, and that bugged the hell out of me.<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLhHcIkiMizg23Ygqx8Wq_CFVVpYPQZ3Cdwrmt7H6LYjIRl_jIsZqdi1QbzXKCMUFVNXLgH9EugukoKYlnvz7nIEEsyq-uEHu0DMUQy3cNOahLSNUkUu32Gg4YnKcLvV-pzJCdReFas8/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjLLhHcIkiMizg23Ygqx8Wq_CFVVpYPQZ3Cdwrmt7H6LYjIRl_jIsZqdi1QbzXKCMUFVNXLgH9EugukoKYlnvz7nIEEsyq-uEHu0DMUQy3cNOahLSNUkUu32Gg4YnKcLvV-pzJCdReFas8/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5093438315397067042" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-82153640858295181562007-07-30T20:02:00.000-04:002007-07-30T20:38:58.446-04:00Bye Bye Wiggy!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://stickandballguy.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/wigginton_ty_2007.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://stickandballguy.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/04/wigginton_ty_2007.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /> Let's first start by mentioning that we will sincerely miss having Ty Wigginton as a member of the Tampa Bay Devil Rays. Wiggy was a hustler, a leader, and a grinder. He played with the type of attitude that every player should play with. With all of that being said, moving Wiggy was ABSOLUTELY the right move to make. The future of this team has no plans involving Wiggy, at best he would be used a utility infielder. The Rays have now turned a utility infielder into a good relief option, which if you add up our previous good relief options, that leaves us with 1 good relief option. Many would argue that Al Reyes is a great relief option, but ever since his return from his injury stint, his fastball doesn't have as much movement as it did previously, and we expect it to show in the next month or so. With all of this said, lets break down the trades.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rays acquire: (RP) Dan Wheeler </span> Astros<span style="font-weight: bold;"> acquire: (Name Any Position) Ty </span>Wigginton<br /><br />Breakdown: We know the Astros are trying to beef up their offense, but this move is puzzling. While Wiggy's power should excel in their park, he will still have a low OPS, and will continue to be a way better fantasy player than actual player. The Rays however acquire a pitcher who already has a history with the team, including a great relationship with Jim Hickey, the pitching coach. Hickey was Wheeler's pitching coach during his 2 best seasons in which he posted sub-3 era's. If Wheeler's isn't moved again before the trade deadline, expect the Rays front office to get him signed to a extension before years end.<br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Who wins: Rays got the better end of this trade, its not even close.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rays acquire: (RP) Grant Balfour </span> <span style="font-weight: bold;">Brewers acquire: (RP) Seth </span>McClung<br /><br />Breakdown: This is a move very similar to the Brazelton/Burroughs move from a couple years ago. Its a change-of-scenery trade, where the Rays receiver a high risk/high reward opportunity in Balfour. He has had injury problems in the past, but he has posted some solid numbers while healthy. He has yet to post good MLB numbers, but he also has limited experience. McClung has proven that he can throw the ball really hard, and he has also proven he's not really sure where that ball is going. If McClung can limit his walks, he could prove to be a successful major league pitcher, only time will tell.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Who wins: </span>TBD<span style="font-style: italic;">; both of these players have loads of talent, but haven't capitalized on it yet. I like the trade for both teams, and also for both of the players.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Rays acquire: (RP) Brian </span>Shackelford<span style="font-weight: bold;">, (RP) Calvin </span>Medlock <span style="font-weight: bold;">Reds acquire: (2B?) Jorge Cantu, (OF) Shaun Cumberland</span><br /><br />Breakdown: We would've been happy trading Cantu for a used jock strap, getting some value in return is just a bonus. Shackelford is 30 years old, but still learning himself as a pitcher, since he was converted from the outfield in 2001. He will immediately join the bullpen, and will be an upgrade over Casey Loss-um. Medlock has proven to be a successful pitcher in the minors, and will be given a chance to grow in the Rays system. Let it be known that I used to love Jorge Cantu, I even met him in person at the mall once, but his attitude this season will make me hate him as a player forever. You are getting paid to do a job, if your boss doesn't think you are cutting hit, he can assign you to another project, and as long as your still getting paid, you shouldn't have anything to complain about.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;">Who wins: The Rays, getting anything for him is a </span>surprise<span style="font-style: italic;"> at this point.</span>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-25975877176952028472007-07-30T19:56:00.000-04:002007-07-30T20:02:38.435-04:00TSR is back!!!Due to other commitments, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">TSR</span> was out of commission for a long time, but now we are back for good......whether you like it or not. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Alot</span> has transpired since we have last posted, and from now on out expect multiple posts a day covering all of Tampa's teams. You can also expect a post later tonight covering all of the recent Rays trades.The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-83825441744031430932007-06-18T09:57:00.000-04:002007-06-18T10:35:30.726-04:00HEEEEERRRRRRRRREEEEESSSSS JONNY!!!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://marge.uvm.edu/sdempse/wave/Shining/Shining.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://marge.uvm.edu/sdempse/wave/Shining/Shining.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhN5aIysFdvwiqdZhdU54fYhqX18eotX4OKAaCkW2pDK4mi4V6Ryg_o8Os-qNZNfCkJk1rv9r1dEgeftb-s_pVhjaxAIyB_d6YuHX-hwCqO1wCK3-GeWbuxidl9cUS7kbW45_47TvH_5-U/s1600-h/images.jpg">≈</a><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.sptimes.com/2006/03/09/images/large/C_1_gomes_236149_0309.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 375px; height: 294px;" src="http://www.sptimes.com/2006/03/09/images/large/C_1_gomes_236149_0309.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br /> Jonny Gomes is back with the club, and is doing it in Jonny F'n Gomes fashion. Yesterday, Jonny went 3 for 3, including 2 homeruns and 4 RBI's in a Rays 7-4 victory over the Rockies. That was his 3rd homer in as many games since being recalled. He looked like the Jonny of old, and I can speak for everyone when saying we hope it continues. With his heart and hustle, there is nobody else you would want to see perform more.<br /><br /> He wasn't the only helper in the victory, as "Mr. Consistent" Carlos Pena continuted his domination of major league baseball. Carlos was 2 for 4, with a double, a homer, and 2 RBI's. His homer was a 452 blast to the upperdeck. Carlos is slowly becoming a AL MVP contender. He now has 16 homers and 42 RBI's, then you have to consider he has way less bats than most players in the league. At this point, I dont know how he can be kept off of the All-Star team. Our All-Star selections should be very interesting, as we have as many as 6 players who are putting up All-Star quality numbers (Pena, Shields, Reyes, Crawford, Upton, Harris.)<br /><br /> Kaz pitched decent last night. Giving up 3 runs is considered a good performance in that ballpark, but he only went 6 innings. At some point he needs to break this barrier and start throwing like he is capable of. With our bullpen it is vital that we get 7 innings out of our starters. Even if the bullpen pitches 3 innings of perfect relief, you still have your best relievers going 3 innings, and the next game you might not have your better relievers available.<br /><br /> One other performance that I found noteworthy was the inning of relief by Gary Glover. Coming off of a bad outing, he came out and allowed the leadoff hitter to hit a homerun. What was great, was how he shook it off and took down the next 3 batters in order, including 2 strikeouts. That is the difference between a pitcher like Glover and a pitcher like Orvella. It is the self-confidence that helps relievers get outs. Gary Glover doesn't have the talent of a pitcher like Orvella, but he has a mound presence where he thinks he will get every batter out.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">News and Notes<br />-</span>Expect a article out either today or tomorrow listing all of our all-star candidates, with the likelihood the get selected, and a case for why each player should be selected.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIll4LBgd0WZyO0vbJ9ZP_bjqOdL6CyuCMr3yX3PObur4QbM6ipUvyRNzWiWo5-bH6SueQ2kpRV8Y2N0aYw57M5EMl8BtwbMq_i0jueDml9Og_gS1eRuU7fbYGe23yDGQzBYuEcN_BSc/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwIll4LBgd0WZyO0vbJ9ZP_bjqOdL6CyuCMr3yX3PObur4QbM6ipUvyRNzWiWo5-bH6SueQ2kpRV8Y2N0aYw57M5EMl8BtwbMq_i0jueDml9Og_gS1eRuU7fbYGe23yDGQzBYuEcN_BSc/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5077412734159548386" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-27929617197883658762007-06-15T10:07:00.000-04:002007-06-15T10:53:53.072-04:00Possible Moves/Targets...<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://www.chicagoist.com/attachments/chicago_benjy/2006_05_sports_barrett_pierzynski.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://www.chicagoist.com/attachments/chicago_benjy/2006_05_sports_barrett_pierzynski.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />I decided to compile a list of players, who I think the Rays should consider going after, and also what it would take to get the said player.<br /><br />1. Michael Barrett, C Chicago Cubs<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">Why we should do it?</span><span style="font-weight: bold;"> </span>Anyone that follows baseball would know that the recent clubhouse troubles that Barrett has had. He seemingly just will not fit in Chicago, and I think Tampa should welcome him with open arms. Lets just consider his last year stats: .307 BA and 16 HR. Now consider what Navi has done for us so far this year: .179 BA and 0 HR. Think about all of those times that Navi has been up in clutch situation, and you already knew the end result.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">What will it take? </span></span>I think the starting point in this deal would be Navarro, then whatever else we could add on until the Cubs take the bait. I have come up with 2 scenarios that I think could possibly be succesful: 1. Navarro and Dukes 2. Navarro, Zobrist, Ruggiano<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Chance of Happening?</span> 20% Although there have been recent problems in Chicago, I think it will all be forgotten once Barret starts hitting a little better, but lets hope a deal can go through!!<br /><br />2. Jarrod Saltalamacchia C, Atlanta Braves<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Why should we do it?</span></span> Salty has been on our list for a while and the opportunity to get a deal is slowly dwindling. He is one of the top catching prospects in all of baseball, but is behind Brian McCann, who one of the elite catchers in the game, and at a young age. The Braves will likely try and move Salty to first, but if the right offer came in, they wouldnt be able to turn it down.<br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">What would it take?</span></span> Again it would likely start with Navi, I could see a Navi + Wiggy or Baldelli, maybe a player to be named later as well. With Wiggy it could help fill in a hole at 1B, but also add the ultimate utility player. A Trade of Baldelli could be a pre-emptive move on the Braves part, if they do not plan on re-signing Andruw Jones in the offseason.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Chances of it Happening?</span> %10, they have waited this long with Salty, doubt they move him now.<br /><br />3. Aaron Heilman P, NY Mets<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Why should we do it? </span>Heilman is only 28 years old, and he has some very good stuff. He has pitched to a 3.86 ERA this year, and I think that he could be very useful to the Rays as a reliever. We have always had interest in him, but a deal has never been made.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">What will it take? </span>Dukes....my offer would be Dukes straight up. The Mets deseperately need help in the outfield, and we should use that as a chance to capitalize.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold; font-style: italic;">Chances of Happening? </span>15%, The Mets are very wary of talking the Rays after getting burnt in the Kaz/Zambrano deal. Even if it were a fair trade, that alone could shut down a deal.<br /><br /><br />These are just a couple deals that we could possibly see going down to help the Rays, feel free to comment on how you feel.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWd4oHZfBP1t1UMnHLw50AtP0KXwRwfDEOimB5MO7dKbyvLQ7E6R17EnWCTIpuWkuFXWqrKqwn2rPoofGytSrutfMwqw5Xv9OYqvyewFf7Ss6sXVi0OQvN0R5vvC2EnMoGyGGEZuspSE/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjWd4oHZfBP1t1UMnHLw50AtP0KXwRwfDEOimB5MO7dKbyvLQ7E6R17EnWCTIpuWkuFXWqrKqwn2rPoofGytSrutfMwqw5Xv9OYqvyewFf7Ss6sXVi0OQvN0R5vvC2EnMoGyGGEZuspSE/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5076304258935025602" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-58604491926452283932007-06-15T09:21:00.000-04:002007-06-15T10:02:49.198-04:00Where did the bats go?<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://tampabay.devilrays.mlb.com/images/2007/06/14/qArdmU3J.jpg"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://tampabay.devilrays.mlb.com/images/2007/06/14/qArdmU3J.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a> Following a shutout in the previous night, the Rays bats were baffled again in a 7-1 loss to the Padres. Although the game wasn't on television, that did not stop us from attentively following the gamecast on ESPN. Although the final score was 7-1, it was a close game for most of the way through it. JP Howell pitched a gem of a game, going 7 innings and allowing only 1 earned run. Our relief pitching on the other hand, did not go as well. Recently reliable Gary "G-Love" Glover allowed 3 runs plus 1 inherited in only .2 innings. New Rays pitcher Jay Witasick saw his first action, and joined in to allow 2 more runs in the 9th.<br /><br />The Rays only run was in the form of a Jonny F'n Gomes blasty blast. In his first game since being recalled from AAA, Jonny reminded us what it is that he does so well. With Upton and Baldelli out, and Dukes continuing to be an idiot, we hope that this allows Jonny the opportunity to show his stuff, even just for trade value alone.<br /><br />Looking Ahead:<br />Rays begin a 6 game roadtrip today at 9:00 against Colorado. Staff Ace James Shields will be up against another pitcher with a hot hand in Rodrigo Lopez. We hope Shields can do what he always seems to do, and turn this team around. Our bats have fallen quiet these last couple days, and what better place to wake them up in than Mile High Stadium?<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahSPMDBfB8_dOAvbPbqkEsx8epRl-9BleQTVFr8-BgYzbOO4jbbhdovb7-VcEqDQTGEwqY0YW-wLmAtbS0KLjCTGrZhj4sK4rnrWRXkhOunKcIcr44tzDw-bJT9ppqzG8WkwUIxdcVBU/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiahSPMDBfB8_dOAvbPbqkEsx8epRl-9BleQTVFr8-BgYzbOO4jbbhdovb7-VcEqDQTGEwqY0YW-wLmAtbS0KLjCTGrZhj4sK4rnrWRXkhOunKcIcr44tzDw-bJT9ppqzG8WkwUIxdcVBU/s320/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5076289587326742450" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-76406515899116507752007-06-14T14:46:00.000-04:002007-06-14T16:42:55.363-04:00Bolts Net Gratton........Again<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/0/0e/Chris_Gratton.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 200px;" src="http://content.answers.com/main/content/wp/en/0/0e/Chris_Gratton.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /><br />With the Stanley Cup recently ending, this is usually a slow time of the year for hockey, but that didn't stop the Bolts from making a move. The Tampa Bay Lightning have traded a 2nd round draft pick to the Florida Panthers for Chris Gratton.<br /><br />Gratton is like a puppy to the Lightning. We brought him into this hockey world as the 3rd overall draft pick in 1993, raised him as our own through our system, and he made his name initially as a Bolt. Like a lost puppy he has ventured elsewhere around the country, but the one thing that is common is that he has always come back. This will be his 3rd tenure with the Lightning, and I really think this will turn out to be a great move. Not only will Gratton add veteran leadership, but he is great at faceoffs, and brings a toughness that our finesse, high scoring team needs. Gratton will not be a cure-all type of player, but it is a step in the right direction.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkBRohZzucGnh6vQq8_dHdU3fBmdzsNNCm73lyuLRMfcbejLSQA4ujim4N4p8nuH1akfTgVT6ZA-4GxEoaIVLft4Lb-1xT5bfoc08N4b8IkMjuLYrmWXd_hOxoecL_GsbyTY32mHXbt0/s1600-h/lightning+logo.gif"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 94px; height: 86px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQkBRohZzucGnh6vQq8_dHdU3fBmdzsNNCm73lyuLRMfcbejLSQA4ujim4N4p8nuH1akfTgVT6ZA-4GxEoaIVLft4Lb-1xT5bfoc08N4b8IkMjuLYrmWXd_hOxoecL_GsbyTY32mHXbt0/s200/lightning+logo.gif" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075996004837224354" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5276805504089778664.post-58634987622091499482007-06-14T09:34:00.000-04:002007-06-14T10:34:01.432-04:00Rays Bats Peaved by Padres<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://rays.tampabay.com/2007/06/13/images/tb_RaysYanked_450x300.jpg"><img style="margin: 0pt 0pt 10px 10px; float: right; cursor: pointer; width: 320px;" src="http://rays.tampabay.com/2007/06/13/images/tb_RaysYanked_450x300.jpg" alt="" border="0" /></a><br /> For those of you who missed the game last night, it will be really easy for yourself to recreate what you missed out on. All you need to do is put on a Rays shirt, pick up a bat, and then throw a ball up in the air and miss repeatedly. Then you need to find a friend who's name closest resembles Edwin Jackson, and beat them as if they were Elijah Duke's wife.<br /><br /> Edwin Jackson really knows how to get your hopes up just enough to crush them. Lately he has been turning the corner and starting to produce quality starts, and we are all just waiting for that breakout start to build a trust with him. One would assume that last night's start wouldve been the perfect opportunity, pitching against the best pitcher in the league and the Padres anemic offense. But then one would assume wrong, as he managed to give up 5 times as many runs as outs produced.<br /><br /> The silver lining in the game though was the work of Jason Hammel, who came in and finished up the first and then went another 6 innings while only giving up 3 runs. The next logical move will be Hammel replacing Jackson in the rotation, I would say that they both have earned this change. Also, Dioner Navarro got a hit, nothing spectacular, but worth mentioning since it only happens once every 3 years.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">News and Notes:<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">- </span></span><a href="http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/news/story?id=2903689">BJ Upton is going on the 15-day DL</a>, and to fill his spot the Rays will bring up Jonny F'n Gomes. With Upton and Baldelli out, it really takes away from the speed of the team, our lineup has been filled with injuries all year, it will be fun to see what it can do when everyone is healthy.<br />- <a href="http://www.tbo.com/sports/rays/MGBTNLU6V2F.html">Witasick is excited to be a Ray</a>, but not nearly as excited as we are to have him here.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfXf3QGoqzd1jKSUjvGXMy6dCfbqQ_dq0OScm8LNq6Y9poTqRDkiOywcm0Dr-_rbYT2y0swA0QcUAWobOfP1t4uXroSy_EEVxzX46M63mcdfT3gnVzcX6N2kC6MY9OGW5s1-eI4ax7Ok/s1600-h/images.jpg"><img style="cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiJfXf3QGoqzd1jKSUjvGXMy6dCfbqQ_dq0OScm8LNq6Y9poTqRDkiOywcm0Dr-_rbYT2y0swA0QcUAWobOfP1t4uXroSy_EEVxzX46M63mcdfT3gnVzcX6N2kC6MY9OGW5s1-eI4ax7Ok/s200/images.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5075927856591138706" border="0" /></a>The GMhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11967897047251576474noreply@blogger.com0