Ready To Go

Brewers to send Yovani Gallardo to the hill in game one



Cole Hamels will take the hill tomorrow at 3:00 at The Bank against The Brewers' Yovani Gallardo, who is one of the top pitching prospects in the bigs.

This guy is a stud. And, what's remarkable is that the 22 year-old suffered a torn ACL way back in April and he has made a recovery in time for the playoffs.

He went 9-5 last year with a 3.67 ERA and 101 K's in 110 innings last year. This year, he was on his way to another good season before being sidelined in April. He is so good, that some scouts feel he is the next Johan Santana-yep that good.

For people to say this series will be just a walk in the park is sheer idiocy. The Brewers may have stumbled down the stretch, but all that matters is they got in the playoffs and it's a whole new season. They haven't been to the playoffs since we last enjoyed a championship in Philly. And, teams like that can very likely go on a run out of nowhere (i.e. The 2005 White Sox).

Gallardo features a high-90's fastball, excellent control, and the stuff that makes GM's drool. This will be a pitching duel-make no mistake about it. And, Sabathia is waiting in the wings for the game on Thursday.

Expect to see this series go five games not a three-game sweep like many are predicting.

Prime Time Busts

Eagles fall to 2-11 in their past 13 prime time games



The Eagles laid another turd last night in their 24-20 defeat to the Chicago Bears. And, it marks their 6th straight defeat during a prime time game, and seventh straight if you count their defeat to the Saints on that Saturday Night playoff game back in early '07.

The offense will take a lot of flak for last night's defeat and while they deserve some of the blame, the defense should not allow a hideous quarterback like Kyle Orton to throw three touchdowns on them, EVER, let alone in a half of football.

We're talking about a quarterback that shouldn't even be in the NFL. He's only starting for this team because whoever scouts QB's for the Bears organization must be high on crack and heroine. Seriously, this is an organization that's come up with the likes of Cade McNown, Craig Krenzel, Rex Grossman, and Kyle Orton. You don't get much worse than that.

While the Eagles had an effective pass rush throughout the game, the opening drive in which they allowed Chicago to go down the field at will was inexcusable. Orton is a terrible QB and in the first half, the Eagles made him look like Tom Brady out there.

Now, onto the red zone offense, which is by all accounts offensive at this point; it's abominable. For a team to miss two field goals, blow 4 plays on the goaline is beyond comprehension. That falls on the coach. Anybody who has not been lobotomized could figure out that you run a QB sneak somewhere during one of those four plays. Andy "I invented the game of football" Reid-the all-knowing, powerful coach, with zero Super Bowls seems to think running the same play over and over again will get it done.

While it was a disgusting loss, it's not shocking. The Eagles are 2-11 in their past thirteen regular season primetime games. Yes, 2-11! They were 0-4 in prime time in 2005, 1-2 in 2006, 0-4 last year, and 0-2 so far this year.

Can the networks please do Eagles Nation a favor and stop putting this team on primetime. They just can't get it done when the lights are on.

They are now 2-2 and last in the NFC East. Ahead of them are the 3-1 Cowboys, 3-1 Redskins, and shockingly the 3-0 Giants.

Their schedule gets much easier from here on out, despite playing a Redskins team next week that has suddenly looked like a playoff team again after their debacle in their season opener.

They had better hope Brian Westbrook gets healthy and fast because the Red Zone is cryptonite for their offense.

Clinched!

Phillies clinch the NL East with win over the Nats



The Phillies did what many of his doubted they could do two weeks ago; clinch the NL East. It was a tough, gritty, grind it out victory, and full of enough drama to last you a season.

They hung on to win the game 4-3, but came within inches (literally) of losing it as Jimmy Rollins ultimately aided Brad Lidge in his bid to stay perfect in save opps for the season.

Jamie Moyer stepped up in a big way, by going six innings and allowing just a pair of runs. The bullpen did their job and Ryan Madson got the job done, despite nearly giving many of us cardiac arrest.

It was a game that the Phillies were supposed to win (the Nats are a 100-loss team) but very likely could have lost. We've seen it so many times in this town, with our teams choking when it counts, but yesterday it was a wonderful surprise.

Now, there will be no worries about having to start Hamels today, thus screwing up their rotation for the playoffs. Everybody will get enough rest, as the playoffs will start on Wednesday.

Hamels will take the hill on Wednesday against either the Dodgers or Brewers. If that's the case, then I hope the Mets make it in. Even though the Brewers have been shaky, you don't want to face that pitching staff in a short series.

Choke Job

Phillies lose two out of three to Atlanta, holding 1 1/2 game lead over Mets



Disgusting is how I describe this past series against Atlanta. I got sucked in, like so many. And, here we are again wondering what in the world the Phillies are doing.

Once you think they're on a roll, they lay a complete turd against a bottom feeding Atlanta Braves team. Brett Myers all of a sudden has reverted back to his evil twin before the stint in the minors. And, the offense went to sleep the past two nights.

Thankfully the Mets have been equally horrendous of late and the Phils still are holding onto a 1 1/2 game lead. With three to play, their magic number is three because the Mets still have four games to play. So, if the Mets win all four, the Phils have to win all of their remaining games or else they could risk finding themselves sitting at home in October, because the Brewers are tied with the Mets for the wild card.

Myers has allowed 16 runs in his past 8 1/3 innings. Ouch! Do the math and that's an ERA in excess of 17.30. And, it couldn't have come at a worse time. What's even worse is that with the rain coming this weekend the Phils might have to play a double-header on Sunday or Monday and their playoff rotation will get screwed up.

Looks like Joe Blanton may be counted upon in game one, SHOULD they make the playoffs. Do you want Blanton as your game one starter?

I didn't think so.

The Phillies are cementing themselves as the Chicago Cubs of the NL East because it seems like something goes wrong with this team every year.

Even though I'm down on this team I'm holding out hope that they can catch fire after making it in. The Cardinals did it and did the unthinkable in beating the Tigers to win the World Series in '06. And, don't forget the White Sox stumbled down the stretch and got hot once they got in.

It is not impossible, it's just these things don't happen to Philadelphia teams. And, they wonder why we're such a negative lot.

HAPPening

J.A. Happ gives strong pitching performance, leading Phils one step closer to NL East crown



Can we officially say it now that J.A. Happ is a starter of the future? And, unlike Kyle Kendrick (who was smoke and mirrors until the All-Star break) he can actually strike guys out, and he has better control.

The star of last night's 6-2 win over the Braves was Happ, who had 93 total pitches (55 strikes), pitched 6 2/3 innings, allowing just two earned, and striking out five, while walking just one.

In each of his four starts he has not allowed more than two earned runs and his control has steadily improved. He still gets behind some batters 3-1 in the count, but he'll figure out a way to put them away. Kendrick on the other hand, gets swept up in a vortex of poor control and looks lost out there anymore.

Maybe the Phillies' future isn't so bad after all. Happ looks like he could develop into a very good third starter and if you put him behind Hamels and Myers, this pitching staff could be one of the best in the NL for years to come.

Another, member of the Phillies' youth movement in Greg Golson pitched in by scoring the go-ahead run in the 8th making it 3-2. Despite blocking the plate, Atlanta catcher Clint Sammons was a tad late on his tag, thus enabling Golson to score his first career run in the bigs.

The youth movement on the Phils could perhaps the key to extending their window of opportunity. We know that David Montgomery will never allow his people to go out and get big-time free agents or make splashes at the trade deadline, but if these youngsters like Happ, Golson, Marson, and Donald can provide an influx of talent, maybe Burrell and Moyers' departures at the end of the season will be moot points.

We shall see about that.

The Phils have just 5 games remaining and are 2 1/2 up on the Mets in the East and three games up on the Brewers in the loss column, thereby making their magic number-three.

Tonight, Cole Hamels will take the hill against Mike Hampton at 7:05.

Double The Fun

Eagles win defensive showdown and Phils win series against Fish



What a day it was for Philly sports yesterday. First, the Phillies started off their rubber match against the Marlins at 4:00. And, the Eagles kicked off against the Steelers at 4:15.

When it was all said and done and the smoke cleared the Eagles knocked the snot out of the Steelers 15-6 and really the game wasn't that close had it not been for an ineffective Eagles' offense that sputtered inside the 20's. And, this wasn't a mediocre team either; the Steelers could very well represent the AFC in the Super Bowl.

And, the Phillies came out ahead of the Marlins, winning the series and retaining possession of first place in the NL East and a commanding lead in the Wild Card over Milwaukee.

I will be the first to say that I predicted both the Phillies and Eagles to lose yesterday. I saw this series against Florida as a letdown for the Phils and they came up with some serious clutch pitching on Saturday night and handed their asses to them yesterday.

And, the Eagles showed me a lot yesterday. Their defense swarmed like a pack of blood thirsty lions and didn't let up the entire time. It was shades of the Eagles of the early 2000's and the Buddy Ryan era. They came up with 9 sacks overall, one pick, and two recovered fumbles.

This is without a doubt a very good defensive unit and it's mind boggling that they let the Cowboys go up and down the field on them Monday Night.

I'll man up and say this Eagles team is better than I predicted heading into the season. I'll also man up and say the Phils will get into the playoffs and win the NL East.

We got quite a scare yesterday when B West twisted his ankle in horrific fashion and limped off the field, thereby not returning. It looked like a high ankle sprain at best, or even a torn ligament, but you can never jump to conclusions until things are all said and done. Good news just now though; at Andy Reid's noon news conference today he announced that Westbrook is fine and he could return this week if they absolutely needed him and hurried him. Odds are they'll take it day by day and he'll be out this week and he'll return in two weeks.

Looks like we could be heading back into that long-awaited Golden Age for Philly sports. The Phillies are hitting their stride at the right time. The Eagles look to be better than that 10-win team many including myself predicted before the year. The Sixers will be a 50-win team and no worse than the third best team in the East. And, the Flyers remember made it to the Final Four.

It's good to feel good as a Philly sports fan, because it doesn't happen too often.

The Phils will take on Atlanta tonight at 7:05, who just bounced back against the Mets yesterday. J.A. Happ will take on Jair Jurrjens once again, whom he defeated just a few nights ago.

The Phils hold a 1 1/2 game lead over the Mets and are 3 games head of Milwaukee in the Wild Card.

Flyers Open Camp; Thoughts Part One

Not much can be told after only one day of camp. The first day, which is usually some half-hearted light skating, and then a "pond hockey" type scrimmage. The Flyers have few questions when it pertains to who will don Orange and Black sweaters this season. However, the few roster questions are intriguing to say the least.

The Flyers have a number of young exciting players in camp, some that could challenge for roster spots. They also have some veteran players looking for a fresh start. However, in part one we'll discuss the younger guys.

We all know Steve Downie and Claude Giroux, chances are both will make the squad. First I'm going to focus on some of the young talent you might not of heard of yet. And not just "prospects," guys who could legitimately challenge some veterans for spots.

RW Andreas Nodl

At St. Cloud State Nodl posted 46 points in 40 games. Subsequently, Nodl earned the WCHA Rookie of the Year award. Nodl has size and speed, and a nice accurate shot. He sometimes lacks the "motor" necessary for an NHL caliber player. He sort of lets the play come to him. One other knock on him was his lack of defensive pursuit, however, last season he seemed to have improved that aspect of his game. All in all Nodl could be a real deal player, with his offensive ability, his improving defensive skills and board work he looks to have a bright future. Challenging for a spot on the wings might not be as easy as it seems, but Nodl is capable of having a good camp and the Flyers brass may not be able to ignore him. Regardless, I see him in a Flyers jersey sooner rather then later.

D Michael Ratchuk

The Flyers couldn't be higher on Ratchuk, he is the definition of a "New NHL" defensemen. Speedy and great handling the puck he's a coaches dream. Ratchuk had played forward his entire life but switched a few years back when his team was in need of defense help. Playing at the blue line and with his skills Ratchuk realized how much more room he had to handle the puck. And anybody whose played hockey and had success knows that space can make all the difference. Ratchuk most likely won't crack the Flyers line-up because surprisingly the Flyers are kind of deep at D. However, like Nodl I see him in the Flyers uniform sooner rather then later.

D Kevin Marshall

Another guy the Flyers are real high on is Kevin Marshall. Marhall is what I'd describe as a smaller yet more physical Braydon Coburn. He's a very good positional defensemen, great skating ability and rarely gets caught where he shouldn't be. Finishes his checks and is an exactly example of a "stay at home" defensemen. Like Ratchuk he most likely won't crack the line-up early. However, we all know that hockey is a rough sport and your going to have injuries. So in the end it's nice to have good options back at the blue line.


Do I see any of these guys making the Flyers right out of camp? Barring injuries no, but it shows you the Flyers do have some talent waiting in the wings. All three I believe have futures in the NHL very soon. What do you think?

Mike Santa Barbara

7 and 2

Phils make it seven straight wins and two consecutive sweeps with win over Braves



Seven and two. Those are two numbers that are good news to any fan of the Phillies. The Fightins have amassed even straight wins and two consecutive sweeps after a 4-game sweep over the Brewers and a 3-game sweep over the Braves.

And, 7-2 over their final games, is what the Phillies will have to do to ensure they make the playoffs in my opinion.

Since they lost to the Marlins over a week ago, the National League playoff race has turned inside out. The Brewers have collapsed and fired their manager after a debacle against the Phillies. And, the Mets have relinquished their once seemingly insurmountable lead to the Phillies.

As I wrote yesterday, Pat Burrell was headed down the tubes. His once .300 average from early in the season had plummeted to below .250 when he was 0-2 at the plate last night. Then, he hit a homer to seal the win. It looks like this team is starting to capture the magic from last season. And, I was wrong because I really had this team dead in the water. And, I'll man up and say when I'm wrong on something unlike some people I know or hear in the media.

However, they still need to win 7 of 9 games. That will ensure they get into the playoffs. The Mets are still keeping pace with them and just a 1/2 game back. And, the Brewers are two games behind the Phils in the loss column. That means in order to clinch the Wild Card, they'll need to go 7-2 and if the Brewers also go 7-2 and tie the Phils then they'll duke it out in a one game playoff. And, with the way the Brew Crew has gone down the tubes, I wouldn't even bet on them winning that many in their final 9 games. The Brewers are just 4-13 in the month of September-playing easily the worst baseball of any team in the National League and perhaps the majors.

The Phils will play a very tough series starting tonight against the Marlins and it's in Florida against a pitcher they've had little success against in Josh Johnson. I think they'll lose two out of three in this series and I'm sure I'm not the only one. However, I'll go out on a limb and say they'll win their final six games and get that 7-2.

I could be wrong though; after all I counted this team out a week ago and they've proven me wrong.

Brett Myers, the second half Cy Young winner and arguably the MVP of this squad is going tonight so I'm expecting a win. He takes the hill tonight against Johnson at 7:10.

Stepping Closer

Phillies keep pace and remain a 1/2 game ahead of Mets in NL East



The Phils came up with another win over DeadLanta last night as J.A. Happ pitched six scoreless innings to give this team exactly what it needed out of it's fifth starter. Kyle Kendrick should perhaps take a page from Happ's book.

The Phillies have 10 remaining games; one against Atlanta, and three each against Florida, Atlanta (at home), and Washington.

Of these 10 games, it can go either way. Atlanta looks dead, but we've seen over the years how teams like them and Washington can spoil things. After all, the Nats did take two of three from the Phils a few weeks ago. And, Florida will battle and battle everybody in the East just to rain on their parade.

So, as they head into the final 10 contests the Phils can take 8 or 9 out of 10. Does this mean I think they can? Probably not. I do think 7-3 is a realistic number and won't be surprised to see them lose two of three to either the Marlins or the Braves when they face the Braves again.

Just imagine how good the Phillies can be in the playoffs if they can get their offensive studs to work together in unison. Who would've thought that Pat Burrell would be hitting .250 at this time and Ryan Howard would catch up to him in batting average after the way they started off their seasons in April? Burrell is hitting a paltry .176 this month with one homer and 15 strikeouts in 45 at-bats. Howard, on the other hand is .393 with 8 homers, 23 RBI, and 12 strikeouts in 56 at-bats.

Talk about two players heading in opposite directions. Honestly, I don't want Burrell to leave after this year and it will be sad to see him go on this kind of note.

Tonight, Hamels takes the hill against Jo Jo Reyes. Look for a second straight sweep tonight.

Back On Top

Phillies reclaim first place with win over Braves and Mets loss



I've been all over Ryan Howard like green on grass this year-no doubt. He's killed many a rally by striking out or grounding out to right field when they put on that infamous "Howard shift." His defensive miscues have equalized his RBI output on plenty of occasions.

But, when he is good, he's damn good. I don't know about calling him an MVP candidate like Jim Salisbury says, but he's managed to get that average back up to .249 which is quite impressive considering the funk he was in for the first month and a half and that it was back down in the .220's a few weeks ago.

His 45th of the year is arguably the most important because it put the Fightins back on top in the NL East as the Mets lost.

Am I sold yet? Not one bit, because I've seen it all with these teams, but I'm starting to get sold. I'll really be sold when they make it in and I'm stunned by their turn-around over the past 5 games. Last night had let-down written all over it down in Atlanta, which is as silent as a crypt and more empty than the Grand Canyon. Seriously, how ridiculous is it that there empty seats above the dugouts?

The Phils and Braves will go back at it again, same time, same place. The Phils are putting J.A. Happ on the hill against Braves' ace Jair Jurjens. It's a risky move, but they can't trot Kendrick out there again. There is absolutely no way Happ can be worse than Kendrick and that's the bottom line.

One For The Ages

Eagles come close, but can't hold up in the end



The latest Eagles-Cowboys game...err shall I say battle was a slugfest in the mold of a Hagler-Hearns boxing match. From the opening moments, the excitement never wavered.

There were seven lead changes, 78 points, and about as much drama in 60 minutes of football you'll ever see. This might have been the greatest Monday Night game ever, but certainly the greatest Monday Night game in the past several years-since the amazing Rams-Broncos game from 2000.

Ultimately, McNabb will take the fall for this loss and while he should assume much of the blame for the poor hand-off, but he also wasn't getting it done in the fourth quarter, compared to the first half when he was on point like a sniper rifle.

The bottom line is the defense and special teams should never give up 41 points. If you expect to compete in this league against the big boys that's a no-no. And, even with that going against them the offense namely B West and D Jack gave McNabb enough firepower to overcome the consistent onslaught of the Cowboys' juggernaut.

Maybe when these teams face in week 17, things will be much different and the Eagles will come out on top like they did late last year, but there are certainly some shortcomings on defense that need to be addressed. They can't allow Brian Dawkins to be isolated in man coverage or allow their young linebackers like Bradley to get exploited by tight ends. Jason Witten had a field day last night and the offensive line of the Cowboys allowed Marion Barber to attack at will in the second half.

Before this season began I didn't think the Eagles would realistically win this meeting. The fan in me wants them to always win, but I have to be objective for the sake of this blog. But, going into last night I expected a high-scoring match and felt the Eagles would keep it close. It was theirs to win and just as heartbreaking a game as the Patriots game last year.

If we learned anything though it's that they aren't far from the Cowboys and the Eagles are a very good team, perhaps an 11 win team. And, that may nab them the NFC East crown. They have a tough game this week against Pittsburgh and you can bet your bank account that it won't be a high-scoring match and will come down to who controls the line of scrimmage and defensive stops in the clutch.

Already last night this team accomplished what couldn't last year and that's get touchdowns on special teams and defense. There are no moral victories, but those two things right there tell you this is a much better football team a year later.

The Birds will travel to Pittsburgh next week.

Back To Life

Phillies complete 4-game sweep of Brewers and are back in business



In a matter of four days, the Phillies have gone from also-ran to running the Brewers out of town and into a tie with them for the wild card lead.

Added to that, the Phils are one game behind the Mets in the NL East. Just why did they wake up all of a sudden? It seems that whenever this team is playing from behind they elevate their level of play, but when they have a 3-game lead, that's when the falter.

They didn't just barely beat the Brewers either; they thoroughly crushed them, winning 6-3, 7-3, 7-3, and 6-1.

Last night, Brett Myers answered the call and stepped up big-time, delivering a complete game two-hitter in the 6-1 victory. Is it any coincidence that since Myers' resurgence, the Phillies have gotten much better, especially during his starts?

It did help that they just missed C.C. Sabathia, who pitched on Wednesday and isn't due to pitch until today. The Brewers, who haven't been to the playoffs since 1983, look like they'll be left out again. They are folding like a low-rent check cashing company and are losers of 7 of their past 8 games.

This doesn't mean the Phillies are certainly going to make the playoffs, but it's a hell of a push they made by sweeping the team they're currently tied with in the WC chase.

Could it be that this offense is coming to life and they're getting the quality pitching they need at the right time? Right now yes. I'm cautiously optimistic about this team because I've seen them look great over stretches this season then lose 2 of 3 to the Nats.

They'll take on some ham and eggers from here on out in Atlanta, Florida, and Washington. Hopefully they don't let their guard down and play down to their weaker opponents' level.

They are idle tonight and will take on the Braves tomorrow night at Atlanta.

Stepping Up

Jamie Moyer takes the mound on 3 days rest and delivers solid performance



Jamie Moyer had some things to say after last night's game that clearly looked to be directed in Cole Hamels' direction.

I have mixed feelings about it actually. Moyer said "somebody had to pitch" and stepped up and took the ball for game one with just three days rest.

Many are criticizing Hamels for not displaying that sort of bravado. Here's one problem though. He's already pitched more innings than he has at any point in his career and the Phillies still have 3 weeks of baseball left to play and if they get to October, he'll be counted on heavily.

Do you want another Mark Prior? I sure don't. That's what happened to Prior during the 2003 season when he was logging 130-plus pitches in his starts down the stretch and in the playoffs. After that he was never the same pitcher.

Just something to think about when criticizing Hamels and the coaching staff for not using him "enough."

Needless to say it was an impressive win for the Phils against the Brewers' Ben Sheets who got hit around left and right.

They will go back at it tonight at 7:05 at The Bank.

Make or Break

The series this weekend with Milwaukee in South Philly could decide their season



16 to play in 17 days and 3 1/2 games back is the predicament the Phillies now find themselves in after failing to seal the deal yesterday against the Marlins.

Once again, the offense failed to show up and not that Myers had a particularly great start-he did go 7 1/3 and keep them in the game, by allowing 4 earned and striking out 9.

Ricky Nolasco was just a little better and the offense was offensive. Although they left just 9 runners on base, when you consider that they had just 7 hits, that's no good.

Teams have to grind games out at this time of the year and the Phillies are no grinder. They are to grinding out games what Elliot Spitzer is to public relations.

And, yesterday the attitude of the organization towards the fans reared it's ugly head when Charlie Manuel said the fans were flat. This is an organization that clearly likes to piss on the fans in more ways than one, but they'll be happy to take your money at The Bank by selling you overpriced food and beverages.

The Phillies are 4 games back in the loss column from both the Mets and the Brewers. And, with a 4-game series this weekend against the Brewers at home, it very well could mean the end of their season if they don't at least split. If they do lose 3 out of 4, or god forbid get swept, then you can look forward to a long offseason where the front office blames this failure of a season on an offense that had a down year and brings in more Jon Liebers and So Taguchis to serve as a band aid for a laceration the size of the Delaware River.

Sure, the Phillies have 9 games against the Braves and Nationals combined during their last 16 games, but the Brewers and Mets have easy schedules as well. If they fail to deliver this weekend then it's over but the shouting as they say.

Jamie Moyer will take on Ben Sheets tonight at 7:05.

Killin' Kendrick

Kendrick buries the Phils once again



I think it's now safe to say the Phillies should pull the plug on Kyle "bleeping" Kendrick. He's absolutely killing this team. His ERA has risin like google stock during the second half of the season as he is now taking that nosedive that so many (including myself) predicted would happen this season. He's been garbage in recent starts, but with last night's disaster he was the pitching equivalent of Chernobyl.

Face it, he did a nice job last year, but it was smoke and mirrors. He gave up way too many hits, struck out far too few batters, and was getting away with it due to groundball outs last year.

Turn to this season and he's walking far more batters and giving up an alarming number of hits. In 121 innings last year he had just 25 walks. Compare that to this season where he has 55 in 149 innings. And, he's given up 20 homeruns.

Sure, he's an easy target, but he represents something that has held this team back for years and that's a failure to evaluate pitching talent. Behind Hamels and Myers this is the best the Phillies have managed to bring up from their farm system and it's pathetic that they have this maelstrom to deal with everytime he steps foot on the mound. He has now been annhilated four times in his past six starts. It's time for the front office to put J.A. Happ out there in his place or go with a four-man rotation the rest of the way. And, since a four-man rotation isn't an option (because Hamels has already pitched too many innings) they have to let the kid pitch.

Of course, they're trying to be careful with how much they pitch Happ so he doesn't get to arbitration quicker. Again, this goes back to the ownership. And, we've already beaten that horse to death a hundred thousand times over the years.

When the Phillies do blow their shot at winning the division (and they aren't winning the division because the Mets are pretty much unbeatable)---we can pin it on the ownership's unwillingness to add any significant names at the deadline and poor scouting by the braintrust serving under one Mike Arbuckle.

Hopefully Chuck Lamar, the new director of pro scouting will turn things around. Because if they had the players to get C.C. Sabathia or Matt Holliday we wouldn't be worried about Kyle Kendrick burying this team. And, I believe he will, for he has a great track record from his days in Tampa Bay---look at that team now with minor leaguers that he scouted.

Better days might be ahead, just not this year.

Even though I don't think they'll make it to see October, if they hope to do so they need to pull the plug on Kendrick ASAP.

The Phils will take on the Marlins again today at 4:05. Brett Myers goes up against Ricky Nolasco.

Showdown in Big D

Eagles and Cowboys head into first big-time match-up since '06



For the first time since 2006, the Eagles-Cowboys match-up will really mean something. Last year, the Birds were 3-4 heading into their meeting with Dallas, who was 6-1 and all but a cinch to win the division.

This time however, both teams are good again. The Eagles are a 10-win team in mine and most people's estimations and some have them winning 12. Just check out Steve Olenski's recent poll on his site. And, the Cowboys look poised to be the team to beat in the NFC.

Last year they split, but the games didn't have as much meaning, because let's face it we by their match-up last year that the Eagles weren't winning the division. This year they're much more competitive and the meeting in Big D will carry many playoff and division implications.

On paper, the Cowboys are a better team. There's no doubt about it. I predicted before the season that they would lose both games to the Cowboys, but I see this one being a lot closer.

In order to win, it's obvious what the Eagles need to do; get lots and lots of pressure on Romo. If they can do that and put 8 men in the box on Barber (who's nursing sore ribs) then this game will resemble last season's 10-6 defensive shutdown.

If they don't do that, then expect it to get out of hand.

The X-factor this Sunday will be one DeSean Jackson. If they can get him isolated on Roy Williams, then he'll have a field day on him. Williams is a disaster when it comes to coverage. Expect Andy Reid to work that wrinkle into the offense.

The good thing here is there are no new Eagles on the injury report. Everybody on the Cowboys appears ok to go including Barber, who will likely play through the sore ribs.

A Star Is Born

DeSean Jackson silences the critics



Eagles rookie wide receiver was all the talk yesterday after the Eagles' 38-3 win. Sure, McNabb looked like Donny Mac from 2004. Sure, Brian Westbrook was his usual lights-out self, rushing for a pair of TD's. Sure, the defense shut down a Ram offensive attack that is but a shell of it's former self.

But, D Jack had 106 yards receiving on 6 catches and eased concerns (for now) about the Eagles' mediocre wide receiving unit.

And, he also had nearly 100 punt return yards as well, including a 50 yarder to set up a field goal.

Alas, a star has been born and the weight of the world will rest atop the 165 lb (when soaking wet) receiver's shoulders. There's one caveat to consider though. Rookie wide receivers and any skill players for that matter always hit a wall at some point during their rookie season. It is only natural because the rigors of the NFL not only require one to play nearly 50% more games than they did in college (16-20 vs. 12-13) but everything is at a whole 'nother level.

Even with that said, Kevin Curtis will probably return in October and he'll take some weight off the rook's shoulders. We can pretty much assume at this point that Jackson will be a starter or the entire season.

What other positives can we draw from yesterday? The offense looked fluid. And, while they were playing a horrible football team, McNabb displayed a poise that he lacked for most of last season. Added to that, his accuracy and timing were unbelievable during the onslaught.

This game will give the Birds plenty of confidence as they head to Dallas next week. The Cowboys looked lights out yesterday on offense and even though Marion Barber left yesterday's contest with bruised ribs, they are confident he'll play against the Eagles.

Preseason Prediction

Eagles are on track to win 10 games this year



It's that time of year again. Last year, my preseason prediction didn't fare so well. I predicted that they would win 14 and they of course looked very mediocre on their way to 8 wins.

Here goes my prediction for the '08 edition of the Eagles-Reid and McNabb Year 10.

Week one St. Louis

Even though Andy Reid is just 3-6 in home openers during his nine years as Eagles head coach, this should be a win. His three wins came in 2000 against Dallas in the infamous "Pickle Juice" game. And, another win in 2004 against the Giants in TO's debut-ah it still feels like that bullet McNabb through to TO in the corner of the endzone was yesterday and McDougle jacking up Jeff Feagles on the punt. And, the third opening-day win came against the Texans in 2006 as Donte Stallworth owned them that day and appeared well on his way to becoming the next great wide receiver in Philly. The common theme among their opening day wins, their opponents were clunkers. The Rams are still in rebuilding mode and not very good offensively. This game is a win.

Record: 1-0

Week two at Dallas

It's unusual for them to be up against Dallas this year in the season. They were 1-1 against them last year, 2-0 against them in 2006, and 0-2 against them in 2005. Despite shutting them down last December in their past meeting I don't see that happening again. This will be an L for the Eagles.

Record: 1-1

Week three Pittsburgh

Even though they're facing the Steelers at home, that won't matter. The Steelers have an unbelievable rushing attack and Big Ben owned the Eagles in their only regular season meeting. Look for that success to continue. The Eagles will fall to 1-2 after a loss here.

Record: 1-2

Week four at Chicago

Last year was a brutal loss for the Birds at the hands of Brian Griese, who marched down the field in under a minute on the Birds defense like Grant's army took Richmond. The Bears have nothing on offense and a defense that isn't as good as it once was. The Eagles will have revenge on their minds for that ugly last-second loss last year and get back to .500.

Record: 2-2

Week five Washington

If last night's game was any indicator, the Redskins will stink on ice this year. Their offense looks inept and Jim Zorn's playcalling in the clutch resembles a poor man's Andy Reid. And, if you're a poor man's Andy Reid in clutch playcalling then you've got issues. No way they lose to the Skins.

Record: 3-2

Week six at San Francisco

Former Rams O-coordinator and coach Mike Martz may be calling the plays, but that doesn't matter. They are throwing the likes of J.T. O'Sullivan and Alex Smith out there at QB. Frank Gore is their offense and the Birds will gameplan as such. The defense will give them some problems-primarily because of a guy named Patrick Willis who many on the east coast might not know about, but I know about him. He's on my fantasy football team in my IDP league and the best linebacker in the business. The Birds will still overcome Mr. Willis and get their third straight win into the bye here.

Record: 4-2

Week seven BYE

Week eight Atlanta

Andy Reid's teams have typically either lost a game heading into the bye or after the bye. But, come on this is Atlanta. I know they're supposed to lose a game that they're not supposed to, but again. This is Atlanta. They have no offensive line, their QB is a rookie and Jim Johnson feasts on rookie QB's. The Birds' winning ways will continue.

Record: 5-2

Week nine at Seattle

Seattle is one of the toughest places to play in the NFL and they have a stout defense. Mike Holmgren is in his final year as coach up there and will want to bid farewell to his protege Andy Reid in a winning fashion. The Seahawks have the upper hand here based on their D. And, that will give the Eagles their first loss in nearly two months.

Record: 5-3

Week ten NY Giants

The Giants owned the Eagles last season namely because of two guys named Osi and Strahan. And, it certainly helped that Winston "Human Turnstile" Justice aided Osi's 6 sack explosion in that Sunday night stinker. I think the Eagles will prevail here though.

Record: 6-3

Week eleven at Cincinatti

One thing that benefits the Eagles this season is they won't have long road trips. They have just one two-game road trip this season and this is the first stanza of it. The Bengals will be just about done by this point and the Eagles will be licking their chops against a decimated offense and a brutal defense. WIN.

Record: 7-3

Week twleve at Baltimore

Every year there's a game on the docket that the Eagles aren't supposed to lose (that's when they're a good team) discounting 2005 and last year of course because they stunk. Baltimore is a young team but Jim Harbaugh knows Reid's system inside out and will school his teacher. I see this one as a loss.

Record: 7-4

Week thirteen Arizona

The Birds will head back home after their only two-game road trip of the season and face those stinking Cardinals who have given them much trouble over the years. They will be fired up by the Philly faithful after an ugly loss the week before and shut down the Cards' receivers. So, maybe the Anquan Boldin talk will die down some...then again it won't because they need him in the worst way.

Record: 8-4

Week fourteen at NY Giants

Now, we are in the final quarter of the season and the Eagles have matched last year's win total. The Giants at this point will be fighting for their playoff lives and hoping to avoid the Super Bowl to bust jinx. The Eagles will be in for a long day at the Meadowlands in this contest.

Record: 8-5

Week fifteen Cleveland

By this point the Eagles will need two wins to get in and throw the kitchen sink at the Browns. The vaunted defensive backfield will shut down Braylon Edwards, Donte Stallworth, and Kellen Winslow. They'll get their 9th win against Romeo Crennel's squad.

Record: 9-5

Week sixteen at Washington

The Redskins will be fixing to go for the highest draft pick possible in the NFL draft. I'm certain Rock Cartright will be the main man at running back and Jason Campbell will be either hurt or on the bench. Jim Zorn should be looking for another gig too. This is a win all the way and the Eagles will get their 10th win.

Record: 10-5

Week seventeen Dallas

In the regular season finale all eyes in the nation will turn to Philly as the Eagles will try to c**kblock Dallas' bid to get the #1 seed in the NFC. Sorry to say it, but it's not happening. The Cowboys are the class of the NFC as much as it sickens me to say. I can see Dallas winning 14 games this year. But, the Eagles will be a wildcard team at 10-6, but close out the regular season with an L to the Cowboys.

Record: 10-6

So, there you have it. I'm not drinking the kool-aid this year like I did last year when I predicted the Eagles would win 14 games. Not sure what the hell I was thinking. I'm being realistic about this team and they are a good team. Merrill Reese says they're the best Eagles team since 2004. I think the 2006 version wasn't too shabby, but poorly coached and they played under their capabilities. With that said, this team has it's share of flaws and some good young talent.

If they get good production out of McNabb, Westbrook, and D Jack on offense, combined with good special teams play, and solid defensive play the most they can win realistically is 10 to 11 games. They're just not a Super Bowl team. If you look at a team like Dallas, they have some serious impact players and a better QB in Romo. I simply see this being their season and they'll be the class of the NFC.

I hope I'm wrong though because I was wrong as hell last year, but I'm standing by my prediction of 10 wins and you can all berate me if I'm wrong!

Whitey’s Weekly Winners

Week One in the NFL
By Chris White



Last Week: 0-0
YTD: 0-0

The last time we spoke, I was calling for the Giants to shock the Patriots in the Super Bowl. Since then, I penned many a column on the indecisiveness of Brett Farve and how completely nauseating that whole Packer situation was. On a hot and muggy August Friday afternoon, my phone rang off the hook and my inbox had reached its bandwidth.

Brett Favre was a Jet. This is one Jets fan that was not impressed with the addition of the future Hall of Famer. Brett Favre is not the long-term solution so many Jets fans are looking for. After awhile I came to the realization however, that in the NFL, long term is just a 16 game season. We shall see.

Nonetheless, I’m very stoked to be back in the football element of offering up weekly NFL picks to any and all that care to read. Keep in mind; these picks are worth exactly what you paid for them.

Washington at Giants: Home opener for the defending Super Bowl Champions and the ‘Big Blue’ crowd will be in mid-season frenzy. I wonder how long before the first round of boos kick in? Will new Skins coach Jim Zorn's (who by the way was easily the coolest lefty quarterback in the late 70's) fate be any different? The G-Men started off last year with poor play, and with Strahan retired and Osi Umenyiora out with a pre-season, season ending knee injury; one of the Giants greatest assets has taken a major step back before it even started. I think Zorn and a healthy Clinton Portis keep this one very close, plus the road team has won the past three...
Giants 23 - Redskins 20.

Tampa Bay at New Orleans: The Saints under performed last year, digging themselves a hole early in the season. With the addition of Jonathan Vilma on defense, and Jeremey Shockey's fiery attitude on offense, I look for New Orleans to get back to 2006 form. If Deuce Mcallister can contribute at all, this team will move the football on anyone. The Bucs on the other hand just don't have anything special that jumps out at you. Galloway 36, Hilliard 32, and Garcia 38. Not exactly spring chickens in those skill positions either...
Saints 36 - Bucs 20.

St. Louis at Philadelphia: Not sure what to think about Philly this season. McNabb can look sensational early in the season, but could also go three-and-out way too much for my liking as well. Losing Kevin Curtis was a big blow for that passing game. Still though, the Eagles have Westbrook and the home crowd for inspiration. This might be the first year in a long time the Rams defense outplays the offense…
Eagles 24 - Rams 20.

Jets at Miami: Brett Favre...
Jets 27 - Dolphins 17.

Kansas City at New England: Wow, no respect right out of the gate for those
Chieftains with Vegas posting a huge opening day number. Sure, they still don’t
have much of a passing game, and Larry Johnson doesn’t evoke the fear he once did. I think the key to this game will be KC’s defense vs. the Patriots passing attack, which could be rusty with Tom Brady having a very light camp. The Pats win an easy one, but I’d take the number if offered…
Patriots 30 - Chiefs 17.

Houston at Pittsburgh: The Texans have bitten me on more than one occasion in their short history on opening day, and I think this is a team that turned the corner last year. Is that good enough for a playoff birth this year? Probably not, considering the division they play in. I’ll take the Steelers to win and cover. They are healthy offensively, very strong at home, and I don’t think much of the Texan
running game yet…
Steelers 26 - Texans 17.

Cincinnati at Baltimore: Its opening day and I don't give a crap about either of
these teams already. The Bengals have lost both starting receivers on a ‘pass
first’ based offensive mentality, although were smart enough to invite back Chris
Henry. Apparently “Character Counts” is just a flashy motto in elementary schools. Baltimore’s defense is aging, but still rock solid against the run. One thing I like developing in the Inner Harbor is that Delaware standout, and starting rookie quarterback Joe Flacco. I just like saying Joe Flacco…
Ravens 23 - Bengals 17.

Detroit at Atlanta: I'd like to see this game. Detroit has an awesome passing
game, with Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams perhaps the best wideout duo in the NFL. Matt Ryan debuts as the NFL's only other starting day rookie (Joe Flacco- said it again), with renewed enthusiasm in Atlanta. A new start. Let's call for the
shootout and the over... Falcons 38 - Lions 35 (OT).

Seattle at Buffalo: Giving the Bills some home turf respect with the line. As I’ve
said in the past, the Bills at home are always a tough game on the schedule for any opponent while they are still live. Seattle is the better team here, but Hasselbeck has not been as healthy as you’d like to see, they are already out Bobby Engram, and I think Julius Jones is a soft NFL runner. Not the case with the youthful Marshawn Lynch. I’ve talked myself into selecting the Bills…
Bills 20 - Seahawks 17.

Jacksonville at Tennessee: Jacksonville and Jack Del Rio ended 07' with a bad taste in their mouths and have been looking forward to kicking somebody's ass since then. Throw in the emotional angle of this game with Jaguars lineman Richard Collier fighting for his life after a drive-by shooting, and I don’t give Tennessee much of a chance. I didn’t give Vince Young much of a chance against USC either though....

Jaguars 24 - Titans 6.

Dallas at Cleveland: The Cowboys have looked pretty solid in camp, and also have an axe to grind after yet another playoff upset loss. While the Browns are certainly on the way up, facing Dallas on opening day seems to pose too great a threat. Let’s just hope Derek Anderson stays healthy, I have him in one of my twelve fantasy football leagues…
Cowboys 34 - Browns 24.

Carolina at San Diego: Charger LB Shawne Merriman is going to attempt to play with his badly injured knee. I'm very surprised the team is letting this happen, as he will in no way be playing at 100%, and can apparently further injure himself by
trying. Antonio Gates is another All-Pro Charger coming off the nagging toe problem. Must have been some big toe. I think the Panthers offensively are going to quietly put together a solid season, that being said the line is too ambitious for me, even with Steve Smith suspended...
Chargers 21 - Panthers 17.

Arizona at San Francisco: Does anyone remember when the Niners were really good? Weren't they the good old days in the NFL? 1982-1998 all winning seasons, couple of pretty decent players like Montana, Rice, Craig, Hacksaw, Young, and yes even a TO. Walsh, Seifert, Mariucci. Winners. Anyone remember when the Cardinals were really good? Anyone? Buehler? Beuhler? Buehler? Does anyone know how Anquan Boldin hasn't been traded to Philadelphia for Lito Sheppard yet? Just checking...
Cardinals 31 - 49ers 17.

Chicago at Indianapolis: Very intriguing opening day AFC vs. NFC game, another I'd like to watch. Peyton Manning missed most of camp, but that shouldn't matter too much for this Hall of Famer. How Marvin Harrison rebounds from his most ineffective season last year is the big question with the Colts for me. If he is back 100%, the Colts should continue to run with the AFC elite. Same old Bears apparently this year. Crummy quarterback play, and an untested running game are going to make for a lot of under plays with Chicago again this season. Not Sunday though...
Colts 31 - Bears 17.

Minnesota at Green Bay: Will be unwatchable on TV due to the continued overuse for the B word. Make it five straight for the Pack over the Vikes, and one in a row for Rogers..
Packers 28 - Vikings 20.

Denver at Oakland: Jay Cutler has been getting a lot of off-season praise as a breakout quarterback this year. If Denver is going to return as a major player in the AFC West, he is going to have to. I have my doubts, especially with suspect players in the skill areas. The Raiders on the other hand have no pressure of returning to greatness. They haven’t been any good since Marcus Allen. Will be good to see these two rivals line up on Monday night, however. Even without tons of skill, Denver and Oakland just don’t like each other, which makes for good TV…
Broncos 25 - Raiders 13.

Aced

Hamels pitches seven scoreless to lead Phils to 4-0 victory



The Phillies got just what the doctor ordered last night, with another gem from Cole Hamels. In what is a sea of inconsistency for this Phillies squad, Hamels has proven time and time again to be a solid ship.

Last night marks his 6th straight start where he's gone six or more innings and allowed less than three earned runs. He's in Curt Schilling territory with that type of pitching.

And, in his past 17 starts, Hamels has only allowed more than three earned runs three times.

Suffice it to say he's the MVP of this team because it's certainly not one of their "bats."

Utley, displayed that Pete Rose-esqe style of play that we've come to love, but he's not MVP material this year. Hurt or not, he hasn't delivered like he was last year or earlier this season.

Hamels not only gets my vote for Cy Young, but MVP. He won't even win a Cy Young though because MLB places so much importance on wins and that will go to Brandon Webb who will win it (he has 19 wins to Hamels' 12).

I can do without Hamels' dodging of questions, like after the game and his standoffish attitude toward the media and fans, but I want him pitching every fifth day.

Hopefully the Phillies get a long-term deal done with him ASAP because the number will only go up the longer they wait.

The Phils and Nats will duke it out again tonight, same time same place at 7:10. Joe Blanton is on the hill against Odalis Perez.

See-Sawin'

Phillies follow up their series with Cubs with ugly loss



I'll admit when I'm wrong and eat crow when it comes time. And, I'll admit that I thought the Phillies would certainly get swept in four games this week out in Chi-town.

I was shocked to see them win the way they did on Saturday and then on Sunday. They were impressive wins against a very good team. Say what you want about Zambrano not pitching on Sunday-the Phillies still faced a very good ballclub and got the job done.

Then yesterday they fell back into the abyss when Kendrick made yesterday's game against the Nationals an abortion. He buried them with another 6-run outing and with Tim Redding on the hill (whom they usually struggle against) they were as good as done.

It's time now for the Phillies to cut the cord on Kendrick and go with Happ in the five spot. I think we've seen enough 6 and 7-run outings to come to that conclusion. At this point they're playing Russian Roulette whenever they send Kendrick out on the hill.

This marks the third time in five starts that Kendrick has allowed 6 runs or more. And, for a pitcher who strikes out as few batters as he does to do that makes it pointless to keep trotting him out there.

It's time to yank him or as Brett Myers would say, "Boom. Get him outta here."

The Phillies are what they are. They're a good baseball team capable of some big nights, but they'll regress on the next day. And, they better watch out because the Nats are the hottest team in the bigs, currently riding a 7-game winning streak.

They will go at it again at 7:10. Hamels is on the hill against Tim Lannan.