Wednesday, April 30, 2008

Say It Aint So

Phillies to finish above .500 in April for first time since 2001



Yes folks it's been that long, but with a Phillies 7-4 win last night it ensured they will finish April above the .500 mark.

Remember how nervous we all were earlier this month when they were in a funk of winning two, losing two, and then the engine of the offense J Roll went down with an injury.

And, the starting pitching was shoddy.

It looked like they were headed for another slow start.

Slow starts and Phillies have become synonymous with one another so much that there should be an entry in the urban dictionary for slow starts with regards to the Phillies between 2002 and 2007.

But, they're starting to heat up thanks to Pat Burrell and Chase Utley. And, while their pitching isn't spectacular it's good enough.

Just imagine how good they'll be when they do turn it on after J Roll comes back from the DL.

Suddenly my 90-win preseason prediction seems like it will come to fruition.

They take on the Pads tonight and with a win, they'll finish the month at 16-12. If they lose, they'll be 15-13.

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Ewww....that hawk
Sixers get destroyed by Pistons and are on the brink of elimination




They say the Hawk never dies in regards to the St. Joe's basketball team.

Well, this is a hawk that should die and I'm talking about Samuel Dalembert's mohawk he sported last night. How hideous of a haircut is this?

On the one side of his head, the intitals L.T. were imprinted and the other side, was S.D. But, he claims S.D. stood for strong defense.

Well, what the hell does L.T. mean? Lose torturously. Anybody who watched this game last night that was a fan of the Sixers got treated to a drubbing to the tune of 98-81.

Now, the Sixers are a game away from elimination and despite Andre Iguodala's best game this series they could not handle Detroit's half-court game.

It appears the Pistons have awoken from their slumber during games one and three and are now ready to oust the Sixers from the playoffs for the third straight time they've met.

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Paybacks are a bitch

It's been three years since that thing we like to refer to as the "TO saga" and the Eagles are looking to get their money back.

They're suing him for nearly $770,000 in bonus money that he hasn't paid back yet.

http://www.philly.com/philly/sports/eagles/nfl/20080429_Eagles_file_suit_against_T_O__to_reclaim_bonus_money.html

Since he lost in arbitration earlier this year, the ruling was that he had to repay bonus money that the team paid him in 2004 and 2005.

Tuesday, April 29, 2008

Canada's Team

Flyers win 3-2 despite biased officiating



Sam Donnellon wrote a compelling article in today's Daily News and he's stating what's been all of our minds since the series against Washington. And, that $50,000 question is, are the Flyers being screwed by the officials?

He digs deeper and states that the Canadiens are Canada's Team for the NHL. When you put it into perspective they may very well be.

Look at the horrific calls that have been going on throughout the series and on two occasions a Montreal player struck at a Flyers player and nothing was done last night. In fact, Hatcher was ejected at the same time when Tomas Plekanec deliberately tried to injure R.J. Umberger. And, of course there was a sucker punch thrown at Timmonen and the Montreal coach stated publicly that he deserved it.

Had this been the Flyers all hell, fire, and brimstone would break loose. The Canadiens pretty much get to commit acts of violence while urinating and taking dumps on the ice, while the police just let them do as they please. And, the Flyers who jaywalk are thrown in prison for the weekend or beaten up by the police for failing to come at a complete stop at a stop sign.

I'm with Sam Donnellon on this one. Something is rotten in Denmark and the officials should have to answer for their horrific calls. In fact, Gary Bettman should have some explaining to do. Lord knows he's the worst commish in professional sports and that's saying a lot considering how horrendous of a job Bud Selig has done. Bettman makes Bud Selig look like Paul Tagliabue.

With all of that said, the Flyers overcame the plethora of road blocks thrown their way by the officials and survived, winning 3-2 in a nailbiter.

And, once again Marty Biron stole a game for the Flyers and has resembled a franchise goaltender. He stopped 32 of 34 shots last night en route to the victory.

I will say it now. I was wrong on Biron. He really has shown me something thus far in the playoffs.

Now, he'd better not make me look like a fool! Of course, he does have the officials to blame if he gives up some goals on power plays because the Cans get served powerplays like Red Lobster serves up seafood combos.

The Flyers will face off against Canada's Team tomorrow night, same time 7:00 at The Wach.

Monday, April 28, 2008

Tale of Two Halfs

Sixers get their doors blown off by Pistons in second half



For the first half it appeared the Sixers were one game away from sticking a knife into the vampire's heart. The Sixers were up by 10 at the half and we were almost ready to say goodbye to the Pistons.

For one half.

And, then the Pistons made some adjustments and beat the living hell out of the Sixers in the second half to the tune of outscoring them 34-16 in the 3rd quarter and that was all they needed.

The Sixers were even up by 14 at one point, but the Pistons figured the Sixers out again.

One thing is sure each team knows how to beat the other one. They both have each other figured out. The Pistons know if they can play their half court game and stymie them, they'll dominate. And, if the Sixers run up and down the floor their combination of youth and quickness on defense will trump their experience.

I really think the Sixers have a shot at winning this series. They need to come back in game 5 and just start with the run and gun and play ball hawking defense and get a huge lead after three quarters. If they do that, they'll win.

They will have no chance by getting into a half-court game with this squad. It's like trying to box with Mike Tyson back in '86. You just can't do it.

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Andy Says...

For those of you who don't like the fact that the Eagles traded out of the first round again and didn't move Lito like they said they would Andy Reid has some choice words for you.

"I can understand that," Andy Reid said. "There are people who are going to criticize. There are going to be some who like it and some who don't.

No, I didn't make that quote up. That's what Andy Reid said in regards to the criticism over the team's draft. Gee, no shit Andy? Do you think there's people who will like it and some who won't. Why don't you tell us the sun will shine on some days and it will be cloudy on others.

Seriously though, what would you expect? Would you expect Andy Reid to say, "they can blow me because I know more than they do." That would be funny if he did, but this isn't the bizarro world.

Tom Heckert was just on with Glen and The Cuz on WIP and said not to expect a move for wide receiver. Another quote machine, Heckert wouldn't tell you they were getting a wide receiver even if it were formally announced on ESPN. He'd deny up until the press conference.

What I will say is a quality source of mine says we should expect some good news soon on the Boldin front. Could the Eagles be using that #1 pick next year and Lito to make it happen?

Stay tuned. I'll stay on top of this story.

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Grades...Schmades!

Eagles get their return man and defensive tackle depth



I'm not one of those types that's going to regurgitate everything that you can get off other websites. One thing I will say is the Eagles absolutely raped the Carolina Panthers yesterday.

And, let's not get our panties in a bunch about them forgoing a first round selection for the second year in a row. When a team offers you their first rounder next year, this year's second rounder, and a fourth rounder you'd be a fool to pass that up. Add into that equation the fact that the Panthers are headed for bottom feeder territory this season and the Eagles could very well get a top 5 pick out of that. And, then they can get a franchise left tackle next year to play for the next dozen years.

I know nothing about pretty much all of their picks except for DeSean Jackson, whom was interviewed by our very own Bill Neri-Amadeo. What's the skinny on D Jax? Well he's pretty skinny for one. And, he's the fastest WR in the draft. He's been working out with Jerry Rice for a few months and he will solidify three needs for the Eagles. He'll be used all over the place in their offense and help them as a downfield threat. And, he fill two serious needs on both kickoff returns and punt returns.

Trevor Laws gives them depth at defensive tackle. Don't know much about him other than he's said to be a guy that can get after the quarterback, which Patterson and Bunkley don't do.

The trend in the NFL is to copycat once a team shows you how to be successful at something. Expect a lot of teams to try and copy the Giants' system and get players like Justin Tuck. The Eagles are no exception and drafted a light defensive end with speed in the third round from a small school named Bryan Smith from McNeese State. Don't laugh at the pick. We don't know anything about him. Trent Cole if you recall was picked in the 5th round and I'd say the Eagles made out pretty well with him.

We can't evaluate a draft until about two years down the road. Just now we can evaluate the Eagles' drafts from 2005 and 2006 and say that they got quality players in Patterson, Cole, Bunkley, Gaither, Gokong, and Herremans. But, you can't judge this draft today and probably not for another year.

One thing is clear they pulled a rape job on the Panthers and DeSean Jackson will give this team a playmaker that can contribute immediately. And, isn't that something we've all been pining for?

Now, the scoop I'm hearing from one of my sources is that the Eagles are said to be heavily after Anquan Boldin. This is where the "Lito card" will come in. My source tells me to expect good news very soon on that front.

We shall see.

Friday, April 25, 2008

Role Reversal

Pistons get romped by Sixers at the Wach



The Sixers have done the unthinkable and that's not just beat the Pistons tonight, but beat the living daylights out of them. Normally this is something that would happen to a Philly team. They come into the series a huge favorite and end up getting bush whacked. Sound familiar? Cough, cough...Eagles!

Well, the tables have turned tonight as the Sixers have won 95-75.

After winning by a whopping 20 points they now hold a 2-1 lead in this best of seven series.

And, they did it with defense. Andre Iguodala didn't even have to show up tonight (which he didn't) because Sammy D and Reggie Evans laid down the law on defense.

Samuel Dalembert if you remember had a great series against Detroit three years ago when he averaged double doubles in each game, but tonight was a huge step forward. He had 22 points, 16 rebounds, and a pair of blocks and looked every bit the part of a franchise center tonight.

At one point the Pistons missed 17 shots in a row over the course of 13 minutes. I even began to feel sorry for the Pistons and then I realized this was the same team that has knocked the Sixers out in their past two playoff appearances.

Great win for the Sixers. The pressure is now on Detroit to win 3 of the next 4 games. Can they do it? Of course, but the Sixers aren't going to go quietly in this series and that has to be the biggest surprise so far in the NBA playoffs because nobody including myself thought the Sixers could actually win this series.

Weekly Wrap-Up

If Tommy Lasorda were the Flyers coach, he would have flipped a lid last night



This week a lot is going on, but the biggest thing that happened was the kick in the nuts to Philly Sports Nation last night when the Flyers got raped by the officials.

It's obvious that John Stevens doesn't show enough chutzpah for our liking. Hell, even if he showed the emotion Andy Reid shows .01% of the time that would be enough. But, even that didn't fire Stevens up.

Well, if Tommy Lasorda were the Flyers coach, this shit wouldn't stand.

I'll set this up with the following infamous clip of a few Lasorda rants when he raved about some "fucking guy named the nose from the New York post" to when he dropped more MF and Csucker bombs then the US dropped nepalm on Vietnamese jungles.



So, now that you got the set-up on what a real coaching rant is like, let er rip! Michael Barkan of Post-Game Live on Comcast will do the honors and introduce coach Lasorda.

Barkan: You're watching Post-game live and Coach Lasorda is ready to answer some questions down by the lockerroom.

Reporter: Coach. What do you think of the high-stick goal that was scored?

Lasorda: What do I think? I think it's a bulls**t f***ing call that's what I think. The f***ing guy raised his stick higher than a porno star's c**k for f***s sake! You ask me what I think?! The f***ing stick was higher than the goddamn f****ing Sears Tower. Hellen f****ing Keller could have seen that bulls**t was a high stick. That motherf***ing ref I hope dies choking in his sleep tonight. That cocks***er. And, you have over rated player like Alexi Kovalev who couldn't hold Rocket Richard's c**k while he was taking a piss, get handed a f***ing bulls**t goal like that it makes me sick!

Reporter: Do you think the refs have a bias towards the Flyers because they're a team from the U.S.?

Lasorda: How the f**k would I know that?! What kind of f***Ing question is that? Where did you get your journalism degree at f***ing Border's Books? You dumb f**k you look like a goddamn weasel you. Come here I wanna strangle you!

Reporter: Tommy, do you feel...

Lasorda: Get the f**k away from me Howard.

Reporter: Tommy-

Lasorda: I mean it get the f**k away from me. I always thought you were a f***ing spie weren't you.

Reporter: Ha ha ha. Tommy-

Lasorda: I mean it Howard. I don't need your s**t tonight. Ok, somebody else. One more question and hurry up I gotta go in there and take a s**t!

Reporter: Tommy, are you satisfied with Biron's play tonight?

Lasorda: Biron's play? Well Jesus Christ his play was pretty good, but there's no f***ing reason he should've let that goal in with 30 seconds left. I don't give a s**t if somebody's stick breaks or not on a face-off, you gotta be on your guard. Biron would make a good f***ing matador I tell you! He looks like Patrick Roy at times and then other times he looks like Mary Roy or Helen Roy or whatever broad he's married to.

Reporter: One more question Tommy.

Lasorda: That's it. The f***ing questions are over! I'm going to take a s**t!

Ah, what if Tommy Lasorda was the Flyers coach. That would be sweet wouldn't it?!

Traded?

Lito Sheppard to be traded to the Bucs for 2nd rounder and Michael Clayton



Looks like Lito Sheppard will be traded to the Bucs. Yesterday he made a trip down to Tampa and whenever a player on Team A makes a trip to see Team B, the odds are a deal is going down.

The skinny on this is that Lito will be traded to the Bucs for their 2nd rounder and wide receiver Michael Clayton.

Who is Michael Clayton you might ask? No, not that Michael Clayton that George Clooney portrayed.

He is a former 1st round pick who started out his career like a house on fire with 80 catches 1,193 yards and 7 TD in his rookie season. Since then he has 87 catches 1,029 yards in THREE seasons!

So, is Clayton a player or a jagoff? Looks like somewhere in between because he's been hurt much of the last three years. He obviously has some potential if he had a rookie season like that, but odds are he's not that player.

The bottom line here is the Eagles are getting market value for Sheppard. DeAngelo Hall set the bar when he landed the Falcons a 2nd rounder. So, you can't say the Eagles are getting ripped off here.

McNabb will make him better because McNabb is a much better quarterback than Jeff Garcia. I know it's sinful of me to say that because Garcia could walk on water.

Look for this deal to get done sometime today or during the draft tomorrow, which starts at 3:00 PM.

As for who the Birds will take that's another story, but Mark Eckel (who I put a lot of faith in) sees them moving up for an offensive linemen. I'm with him there.

Thursday, April 24, 2008

Close, But No Cigar

Flyers lose 4-3 in OT after holding 3-2 lead towards end of 3rd period



The Flyers were heavy underdog heading into their second round matchup against the Canadiens and the hockey Gods smiled upon them in the first period.

The Flyers had this game...almost. They were up 3-2 with just under 40 seconds remaining and then Saiko Koivu ruined their night by tying the game 3-3 and sending it to overtime.

Barely 40 seconds into OT the Canadiens won the game 4-3. Oh, what could have been. Had the Flyers stolen a game on the road, this could have gone a very long way.

Biron played an excellent game, but the defense just couldn't hold down the fort towards the end of the contest.

Looking Good

Flyers have 2-1 lead towards end of 2nd period



The Flyers were heavy underdog heading into their second round matchup against the Canadiens and the hockey Gods smiled upon them in the first period.

The Flyers had everything go their way in the first period as Montreal knocked shots against the post and the Flyers saw two of their shots go in.

Added to that, the NHL's #1 powerplay team didn't have one powerplay as neither team had a penalty in the first period.

Montreal came back in the 2nd with a goal though. The Flyers brought their A-game tonight and look like a serious team led by Martin Biron who is looking every bit like a franchise goalie tonight.

Broken?

Phillies mired at .500 as reports surface about Rollins' ankle being broken



Looks like the Phillies are playing another game of misinformation when it comes to a player's injury.

Jimmy Rolins it turns out may have a broken bone in his ankle. This is a far cry from the "sprain" that the Phillies said would keep him out 2-3 games. And, then they trotted him out there during a horrid 2-week span as he struggled to run down the baseline during pinch-hit at-bats. And, after letting that drag on they decided to put him on the DL.

Now, it could be even worse. The Phillies are of course denying this story.

And, while I'm on the Phillies about their mishandling of this. How pathetic are they that they're calling up the likes of Brad Harman when they're leaving Greg Golson to sit in the minors as he's hitting well over .300 and more than qualified to be up in the majors at this point-at least to be on the bench. Meanwhile, Harman was barely hitting over the mendoza line in AAA!

It's pretty obvious that they're leaving him down there so he doesn't accrue major league service time because then he will have to wait another year to become arbitration-eligible and to get paid more when he finally does reach the majors.

Sound familiar?

They did this to Ryan Howard a few years back when Jim Thome was hurt and when they needed him. Meanwhile, they kept Howard in the minors as long as possible before calling him up.

Just another example of carpetbagging by the Phils' ownershit.

Wednesday, April 23, 2008

Sore Losers

Washington Fans prove that Philly fans are not the scourge of the Earth



Anyone who hasn't seen it by now, a Washington Caps fan threw a bottle at Jeff Carter after the game last night.



This incident proves that the Washington Post's Mike Wise doesn't know his ass from a hole in the ground.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/04/15/AR2008041503637.html

Mike Wise should take a look at what this behavior classifies as. This is assault and the guy who threw that bottle should never be allowed into another sporting event again and be thrown in prison.

Furthermore, where is the outcry from ESPN? Had this happened in Philadelphia you can be goddamn certain that this would be all over their broadcasts and there would be a link up on their homepage.

Well, where the hell is the link on their homepage you might ask? It's not there. The reason why is because Philadelphia sports fans are the boogeymen for these dullards. They are an easy target for lazy national media types who don't know a damn thing about us. We are the most passionate fans out there and while we may be tough on our pampered athletes (deservedly so) we sure as hell don't throw beer bottles at them or opposing team's players.

The national media should be all over this classless sore loser of a fan because this kind of thing doesn't happen in Philly.

As far as the Washington Craps fans go, I feel no pity for them. We've suffered through the worst 5-year stretch of losing any city has probably ever seen from their four sports teams. From the final game at the Vet against the Bucs in 2003, to the Panthers at the Linc in 2004, to Smarty Jones losing the Triple Crown by a pubic hair in 2004, to St. Joe's getting beat at the buzzer in the Elite Eight in 2004, to the Super Bowl in 2005, and to the Phillies' plethora of collapses during this 5-year span it's been a hellish period.

For once one of our teams came out on top and the opposing team choked. And, it feels great as hell because I was honestly prepared for the Flyers to lose and had little faith they'd pull it off. They really proved something to me and I stand corrected.

And, most of all I'm proud to be a Philadelphia fan and be amongst the greatest fans in the world.

Boo ya Mike Wise.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Flying High

Flyers win the series in game 7 in overtime 3-2



I'll be honest and say I expected the Flyers to blow this game because I've been conditioned to expect losing out of our teams.

Boy, was I pleasantly surprised! The Flyers did the unthinkable and after losing two straight games they hung in there and pulled off a shocking victory in overtime and on the road!

The heroes tonight were Martin Biron and Joffrey Lupol, who had the game-winner.

Get all the details here!

DeSean Jackson Interview



By Bill Neri-Amadeo

We recently had the opportunity to sit down with California University wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Jackson is the best receiving prospect in the years NFL Draft and has the chance to make an impact both as a wide receiver and a return man. Known for his speed and leaping ability, the interview with Jackson showed just how grateful he is to his family and how much he loves being a team player.

What was it like growing up in Los Angeles?

It was great. My family did a great job keeping teaching me the value of school and sports.

Did your family encourage you to play football growing up?

All of the time. My brother Byron and he and my dad always instilled the importance of football.

Your brother Byron played for the Kansas City Chiefs in the early 90’s and was a star wide receiver in college. Did he help your game while you were growing up?

Byron worked with me all of the time and brought a lot to the table. I appreciate everything Byron has done for me.

What was it like playing at Polytechnic High School?

It was an incredible experience. Following in the footsteps of players like
Marcedes Lewis and Winston Justice helped me a lot. My time there really helped shape my game.

You played Defensive Back in the CIF Southern Championship game in high school and excelled at it. Did you want to play defense in college?

I really wanted to play both ways but my coaches wanted me to concentrate on offense and special teams.

You were a major league baseball prospect in high school. What made you choose football over baseball?

I always enjoyed playing baseball and was told I had a chance to play professionally but football was always my first love.

What made you decide to go to Cal?

It was a great program and a chance to expand my game and be part of an up and coming team.

What was your most memorable game in college?

There were so many that I look back at that were important to me it’s hard to pick just one.

Do you have regrets from your college career?

None.

Who was your toughest opponent in college?

Definitely USC.

What was it like playing in the 2007 Armed Forces Bowl?

It was a great experience and I’m glad we came out on top.

What did you think of your experience at the NFL Combine?

Incredible. I had never experienced anything like that before. All of the coaches and General Managers were there and we were all on display. I loved my time at the combine.

What was the process of picking an agent out?

It was a pretty smooth experience.

Who did you pick?

DeBartolo Sports. They really care about my career and me.

What was your favorite team growing up?

The Dallas Cowboys.

Favorite player?

Jerry Rice. He was incredible.

What coach was most instrumental in helping your game?

I had so many great coaches and I feel I took something from every one of them.

Is there any current or former player you model your game after?

Steve Smith from the Carolina Panthers. I admire the way he moves after he catches the ball.

Many people rave about your speed, leaping ability and courage to cross the middle. What do you feel is your best asset?

My will to win and help my team.

Is there any system you would prefer to play in?

I have no preference. I just want the chance to contribute.


Many scouts say you’re the best special teams prospect since Devon Hester.
What do you think it takes to excel on special teams?


Special teams play is unique. I think for anyone to excel on special teams they have to have a feel for the ball and confidence to hit the holes. Special teams are all about feel and confidence.

If you weren’t going to play in the NFL, what would you do for a career?

I’d want to work with youths and run football camps and be a business owner.

What are your plans for draft day?

I just want to be around my family and wait for that moment.

Why should an NFL team pick DeSean Jackson?

I have a lot of heart and dedication and I’m willing to help my team in any way I can.

Whoever lands DeSean Jackson in the 2008 NFL Draft is going to get a top-notch receiver, an incredible return man and someone who always puts his team first. It is clear that Jackson is grateful for everything his family has done for him and the young man will be the consummate team player in the NFL.

Bill Neri-Amadeo is a contributing writer for Phillypurge.com. He can be reached at: Wordwarrior76@Aol.com

Monday, April 21, 2008

Laying Down

Flyers implode after a 2-0 lead



We've all seen this script play out before and now it's getting pretty goddamn old.

The Flyers started out like a house on fire tonight, storming to a 2-0 lead. And, then the goals kept coming for the Capitals.

One....

Two...

Three...

Four...

And, before you could say "puck" the Capitals were up 4-2 and now have tied this series up.

Alexander Ovechkin, the great boogieman that the Flyers had shut down for 5 games thus far...well he woke up and scored two goals tonight.

The series will now go back to Washington and you can expect the Flyers to lose. It will go down as yet another meltdown in Philly sports history.

I'm bracing myself because I've seen some real turds laid in recent years. I hate to open up old wounds, but do any of the following ring a bell?

The final game at The Vet against Tampa Bay in the '03 NFC Championship game.

The 2004 NFC Championship against Carolina.

The 2005 Super Bowl.

The 2004 Eastern Conference finals against the Tampa Bay Lightning.

Countless Phillies meltdowns in the final week over the years to the likes of the Marlins and Braves.

Smarty F'ing Jones losing the Triple Crown by a pubic hair.

Yeah, it hurts to be a Philly fan. It's really getting old now.

The Flyers will head to Washington tomorrow night to play game seven.

Gulp...good luck.

Redemption

Phils and Sixers win on same night



One day after a horrific day that began with the sad news of the passing of John Marzano, a Flyers loss, and a Phillies loss the Philly teams redeemed themselves.

The Sixers pulled off the unthinkable last night by storming back from 13-down to take down the Pistons. Nobody saw this one coming especially considering that the Sixers lost 4 straight and 8 of 11 down the stretch and they were 13 down at the half!

And, the Phillies capped off the evening with a comeback win of their own over the hated New York Mutts.

And, of all people to save the game Eric Bruntlett came up with a Jimmy Rollins-like diving play and one-hop throw to first base. Bruntlett, the oft-maligned replacement for Jimmy Rollins redeemed himself in one play last night.

The game was over and this win would've made Johnny Marz proud.

It's an exciting time of the year for us since all four teams are active and three of the four are playing. The Eagles are now the fourth fiddle and can't be happy with that, so that leads me to believe they have something up their sleeve for this Saturday's NFL Draft.

Word was coming out yesterday that the Eagles and Jets were in talks to swap 2nd round picks and Lito Sheppard would go to the Jets for former 4th overall pick, defensive tackle Dewayne Robertson. So far, nothing else has transpired and it's just a rumor. NFL Network's Adam Schefter reported it, so there has to be some validity to it.

Tonight it's the Flyers' turn as they will look to knock out the Capitals. They must win tonight because if this series goes a 7th game, then we'll be talking about next year for the Fly guys.

Sunday, April 20, 2008

Shocker!

Sixers pull off shocking comeback victory over Pistons in game one



The Sixers have done the unthinkable and that's pull off a 90-86 win over the Pistons at the palace. For a half it appeared their playoff nemesis would beat the living daylights out of them tonight as they stormed to a 13-point lead at halftime.

This marks the third straight time the Sixers will face the Pistons in the playoffs and of course the Pistons have knocked them out of the playoffs the past two times.

The 76ers played a gritty game and did it on defense. Despite shooting 43% from the field, they held the Pistons to under 40% shooting.

Defense is what wins in the playoffs folks and you got a lesson in it tonight. Reggie Evans (14 rebounds) and Sammy D (10 rebounds) led the front court attack and held off Rasheed Wallace's monster effort.

Even though Andre Miller started off slow, he ended the night with 20 points on 9 of 18 shooting.

For the Sixers to steal a game on the road like this is huge. They'll go at it again Tuesday night as the Pistons will try to even the series.

Saturday, April 19, 2008

1963-2008

John Marzano found dead in his home this morning



It has been reported that local Philly product and former Phillies commentator John Marzano has been found dead in his home.

This is very shocking news because Marzano appeared to be in perfect health. It is not yet known whether he fell down the stairs or had a heart attack.

Marzano was one of my favorites on WIP and Comcast over the years because he was like one of your friends. His style was very simple and he told it like it is and was about as likeable a person as you'll hear on the air or see on TV.

And, all I can say is news like this really hurts.

My thoughts and prayers go to his family.

Mr. Marzano was 45 years old.

Friday, April 18, 2008

Weekly Wrap-Up

Don West would make a killing selling Flyers cards this week



Anybody who knows who the legendary Don West is, knows this man is a comedic legend. He used to sell baseball cards and toys late at night on the Shop At Home Network.

For those of you unfamiliar with Mr. West's antics, here is a classic clip of him selling Christmas Toys.



And, of course his bread and butter was schlepping sports cards.



Don West would have a goldmine this week if he were selling Flyers and Phillies cards. It's all about the Fly guys and Fightins this week. As for the Sixers...well thanks to the rape job at the hands of the refs the other night they stumbled into the postseason.

Let's focus on good thoughts shall we! Here's Don West giving you the skinny on what's hot this week.

Don West: What we got here is a Danny Briere Upper Deck SP Authentic rookie. It's limited edition people. Danny Briere is a total monster! You are gonna miss out on a return of a lifetime if you don't buy this rookie card. And, it's rated a GEM MINT 10, A GEM MINT 10 by PSA authenticators. Be dialing! He has five goals in the playoffs. FIVE GOALS! FIVE GOALS! How many does Ovechkin have? One. That's FIVE TIMES THE AMOUNT OF GOALS! You're not gonna see a better performance than this. He's sick, he's insane, he's electric. He's a f***n...oh s**t I can't say f**k on the air. Oh, f**k it anyway! I'm in love with Briere! Danny Briere. Get a Danny Briere rookie card for $49.99. $49.99. Be dialing!

Ok, we have a caller on the line. And, the caller is...Dale from Nashville. What's up Dale?

Caller: Don, I just bought some of these Nascar cards and they aint worth sheep s**t motherf***r.

Don West: Ok, next caller!

Caller: Don, you still gonna try and sell any Tom Gordon bobble head dolls. I wonder if they have an option for the f***ing arm to fall off.

Don West: Hey! Don't rip the Fightin' Phis. They are 8 and 8 buddy. This week they heated up and took down the Astros in a game-winner the other day and beat the snot out of them Texas bastards yesterday 10-2. When the warm weather starts, two things happen, the girls wear less clothes and the Phils start to hit! Get ready for a summer blockbuster people!

Next up we have a Pat Burrell Upper Deck autograph graded a gem mint 10. Pat the bat people! GEM MINT 10! GEM MINT 10! You're not gonna get something like this in the stores! Hell, you can't even get this thing on ebay! Pat the bat is on pace for 60 homeruns! 60! 60! 60! I'm going f***ing bonkers! He's hitting homers like Mike Tyson hits women! He's a one-man wrecking crew. He could take down the whole Chinese army by himself with his awesome bat! I'm selling this one for $34.99. $34.99! Be dialing.

Ok, we have Greg from Philadelphia. Greg, how is my Philadelphia brother doing?

Caller: Why's it gotta be like that? Who said I was black?

Don West: I wasn't saying that, I meant brother like brotherly love.

Caller: Yeah, whatever. Yo, Don you can't be serious about this Pat Burrell card. I see that s**t on ebay all the time.

Don West: Next caller. Nancy from Dover.

Nancy: Hi Don. I love you so much. You're knowledge of baseball cards and sports in general is unmatched. They should put you on WIP instead of Howard Eskin.

Don West: Hey thanks for the compliments baby. But, don't get too crazy the audience might think you're related to me.

Nancy: Well, I want to thank you for the Pat Burrell's from last time and I'm going to order 10 more.

Don West: You hear that people? She got 10 of them! There's only 15 left! 15 left! Only 3 minutes left on the clock!

Before we take a break I want to roll out a once in a lifetime opportunity for a Flyers team photo, with a jersey patch from each player. We all know how hot jersey patches are in the sports card industry. Here, you get, the HOTTEST team in Philly right now. And, you get all of the team members autos. And, you get their friggin' jerseys! Every player's AUTO and JERSEY! You'll never see anything like this again. You'll see a friggin' dinosaur running down the street scaring the s**t out of little kids before you see this! I'm dead serious. We have only one in stock and the price is.

Drum roll sound effect.

$3,499.99. That's right you can get this bad boy for under $3,500! Be dialing people! You have a better chance of scoring with Maria Sharapova than landing this one! And, this team is gonna end the Philly curse and win the whole f***ing shebang! Get in on this on the ground level and before it's priceless. This thing could be worth a hundred grand after the parade on Broad Street people! Be dialing!

Alright, time for a break. Be dialing! This is Don West and you're watching The Shop at Home network!

Thursday, April 17, 2008

Epic Finish

Flyers win double overtime epic against Caps behind Mike Knuble's game winner



For the first period this game had disaster written all over it. Despite scoring a goal less than a minute into the game, the Flyers looked sloppy and unprepared during the first period of this game.

And, they settled down during the 2nd and 3rd stanzas and made it a 3-3 game and headed into overtime, which hasn't been so unkind to them as it had been earlier in the season.

The tables turned quite a ways as the Flyers held the puck down in the Caps' zone in the overtime periods, unlike earlier in the game when it seemed that the Flyers couldn't get the Capitals away from Biron.

In what was the first multiple overtime playoff game at the Wachovia Center, the Flyers came up big behind goals by Jeff Carter, Danny Briere, and Mike Knuble.

Once again the Flyers shut down Alex Ovechkin, who has just one goal in four games.

Can you say choke job?

The Flyers now have a commanding 3-1 lead in the series and all the pressure is on Washington as they head down there Saturday night.

Once again, you have to give serious props to the Flyers' fans who were as loud as any collection of fans that I've ever heard in any Philly sporting event.

Get down with the orange, because the ride is just starting.

-----------------------------------

And, this one is for Alex Ovechkin who has one goal in four games!

Interested?

Could the Eagles be interested in trading for Chad Johnson?



Some interesting things are taking place in the Chad Johnson saga. Aside from him talking his way out of Cincinnati, Joe Banner made quite an interesting non-answer yesterday on Daily News Live.

When he was asked if the Eagles would be interested in the estranged superstar receiver his response was, "I can't comment because that would be tampering." And, when asked if they would listen to Drew Rosenhaus if he called,h e refused to answer because it would be tampering.

Rather than flat out saying they're not interested the comments could be construed one of two ways.

Either they speak volumes and the Eagles are in fact interested because they didn't flat out say no.

Or, they did this to appease the fans who are hungrier for a wide receiver than a cannibal in the Congo.

I'm inclined to think it's the latter and that the Eagles have no interest. They are so scared off by the "TO thing" (which should be an official phrase by now) that they'll never go near him.

Banner had to say that. If he says they're not interested (which I think they're not) then the fans go ape over it.

Sorry to be the bearer of bad news, but Johnson isn't coming here.

--------------------------------------------

Phillies and Sixers fall

Kyle Kendrick had his best start of the season last night, going 7 innings and giving up 2 earned.

The bad news?

The Phillies offense was absent. I don't see why the Phillies have been playing games with Jimmy Rollins...actually yeah I do. This is a team that never is forthright about a player's injuries from the get-go. They did it with Gordon and Myers last year and now with Rollins.

They should've put him on the DL rather than pussy-footing around by pinch hitting him. Let him rest and come back 100%. That, and I'm pissed off because I've had Jimmy Rollins starting on my one fantasy squad for two weeks now because the news was initially "day to day" with regards to the maybe, possible high ankle sprain.

And, in Sixers news they are stumbling into the playoffs like a drunken derelict. What the hell has happened to this team?

Are they completely burned out now? They've lost four in a row (including a rape job the other night) and 7 of their last 10 games.

This is the time of the year a team should be peaking, but the Sixers look like they're out of gas. I understand they didn't play all their starters, but the Bobcats' team is Okafor, Gerald Wallace, and a bunch of bench-riding schleps.

I don't see the Sixers winning more than one game against the Pistons. It's a nice step for a young team like this to make the playoffs, but just think with the way they were playing how they'd fair if they faced the Cavs in the first round.

So, the Sixers will go up against the team they last faced when they were in the playoffs a few years ago.

Wednesday, April 16, 2008

My Eagles (Non)Prediction

Pre-season NFL Predictions in April are a waste of time



One of the worst things you can do is predict how an NFL team will do in April when the schedule comes out. This is the thing I hate most about this time of the year next to the NFL Draft when all the draft-nicks come out of the woodwork like cockroaches and tell us about how the Eagles should draft some linebacker named Oracle Thomas out of Southwestern Bumblefuck State in the fourth round.

Enough already.

It's foolhardy to make a season prediction this early on when so many things can change within 5 months (i.e. draft picks, trades, signings in camp, etc.). Although the Eagles rarely play their rookies, they could get lucky and get production out of a rook or two. Or, they can make a pick-up or trade in camp. Remember they traded for Donte Stallworth just days before the season began in 2006.

But, the Philadelphia Iquirer's Don McKee must be high if he thinks the Eagles are a 7-9 team.

Look, I'm no front office fluffer, but based on the following they will be at least a 10-win team.

1-Donovan McNabb will be 100% heading into this season.

2-Their linebackers will have a year of experience under their belts.

3-Patterson and Bunkley have another year under their belts and will form one of the top DT tandems in the NFC.

4-Asante Samuel is a huge upgrade over Lito "I get hurt every other game" Sheppard.

Those factors alone will make them better. With that said, they do need a number one wide receiver, return man, and safety amongst some other needs. I'm not ready to write of Tre Thomas or Runyan yet. Linemen last a long time in this league. Just look at Larry Allen, Jackie Slator, and Bruce Matthews for proof.

I'm not going to go through a useless practice of going through the games at this point because it's a waste of time. When training camp arrives that's when I feel it's best to make a season prediction when you have a much better idea of what the team will consist of.

That's my story and I'm sticking to it.

-----------------------------------------

Phils Win!
Phillies win dramatic game by scoring 4 in the 9th to beat the 'Stros


I was so caught up in the Flyers game last night that I didn't get to see the Phillies game. Once the final bell sounded and the Flyers officially won game three over the Capitals 6-3 the Phillies were engaged in a dramatic finish.

They were down 3-0 in the 9th and suddenly came to life and scored 4 runs to take down the Astros, which are run by Ed Wade, yes the same Ed Wade who we ran out of town. That makes this series very important just on that basis.

No way our Phils can lose to DeadWade right?

Well, it was a close call last night until Pedro Feliz knocked in the winning run.

And, the worst third base coach in baseball-Steve Smith almost (expletive deleted) it up again by trying to hold back Geoff Jenkins.

Thankfully Jenkins kept on going and scored the winning run. Jenkins said he couldn't have stopped if he wanted to.

Let's hope some more baserunners can do that when Smith makes more boneheaded decisions this year.

Great win for the Phils. They start it all over again tonight at 7:05.

Tuesday, April 15, 2008

Danny Boy

Daniel Briere once again has 2 goals and leads Flyers to 6-3 victory



Daniel Briere, for the second time in this series had a pair of goals (four total for the series) in leading the Flyers to victory.

For the first 16 minutes this game was scoreless and all hell broke loose once Danny Briere knocked in his third goal of the playoffs. And, the Caps answered with a goal of their own just a minute later.

And, the Flyers hit them with back-to-back goals in a 17-second span. Meanwhile, the first period wasn't even over yet!

The Caps answered back in the second period with a goal, but Danny boy had another goal on a power play to make it 4-2 and the Flyers never looked back.

Things got a little hairy when, for the third game in a row, we saw a team get the screw job by the officials when the Caps were awarded a goal on a clear high-stick. And, then one of the Flyers players clearly got taken down while attempting to shoot and the refs didn't budge.

But, then Mike Richards got taken down and the refs came to their senses and awarded him a penalty shot; Richards promptly got the job done to give the Flyers a 5-3 lead.

Mike Knuble capped it off with a goal on the open net after the Caps pulled the ole desperation move by yanking their goalie.

Really, this was a game that the Flyers controlled from the door. And, I attribute this to the fact that the fans brought their A-game. The crowd was a sea of orange and they cheered their loudest from the opening moments.

The 7th man on the ice deserves a co-MVP award for tonight's victory.

And, Martin Biron played a very good game. Really, he only gave up 2 goals since that third one was bogus. Overall, this was a great game in all three phases.

The Flyers now have a commanding 2-1 lead and will face off against the Caps in the Wach on Thursday night.

Schedule is Out

Eagles get Thanksgiving game against Cards



Well, the 2008 NFL schedule is out and the Eagles are going to have 5 prime time games.

The highlight of the year will no doubt be their Thanksgiving Night game, as they host the Arizona Cardinals.

Here is the rundown of the schedule:

9/7 St. Louis 1:00
9/15 @ Dallas 8:15 (Mon.)
9/21 Pittsburgh 4:15
9/28 @ Chicago 8:15
10/5 Washington 1:00
10/12 @ San Francisco 4:15
Bye
10/26 Atlanta 1:00
11/2 @ Seattle 4:15
11/9 New York 8:15
11/16 @ Cincinnati 1:00
11/23 @ Baltimore 1:00
11/27 Arizona 8:15 (Thanksgiving Thurs.)
12/7 @ New York 1:00
12/15 Cleveland 8:15 (Mon.)
12/21 @ Washington 1:00
12/28 Dallas 1:00

Monday, April 14, 2008

Screwed

First the Phillies, now the Sixers get screwed by officials losing 91-90



Yesterday you probably heard about the non-homerun that was called a homerun in yesterday's Phillies game unless you were living under a rock. And, this ultimately resulted in the game swinging in favor of the Cubs.

Tonight the Sixers executed a wonderful comeback against the Cavs only to be screwed by the refs on a bogus foul call after the game ended.

The game was locked up and the refs reviewed the play at the end of the game that was cleary NOT a foul and awarded the Cavs with two free throws and put just 2/10 of a second back on the clock.

Of course the Cavs hit both free throws.

And, this was all determined after the game ended. This is what the wonderful replay system in the NBA gives us. A player who was clearly not fouled was ruled having been fouled, which is a complete joke. The play was reviewed over and over and Samuel Dalembert succesfully defended a shot attempt by Devin Brown.

But, the refs didn't agree.

And, major league baseball still can't evolve and put in a simple replay system to determine whether or not homeruns are fouls, or if they hit the wall.

Tonight we have seen the negatives of the replay system for sure. Only in Philly can our teams get screwed out of wins on consecutive days.

The 40-41 Sixers should have had a big win tonight on fan appreciation night. It would have been a high point on the season just two seasons after the low point of this franchise in the past five seasons when Chris Webber and Allen Iverson failed to show up for it.

Yesterday's Phillies game was bad, but this was an abomination. The Sixers got raped.

The fact that a foul wasn't called at all and then after the game they review it and decide it's a foul ranks this up there with the all-time worst calls in professional sports. Seriously. How awful is that? When in the hell do you rule a play a foul after a game?

The Sixers are now the 7th seed and will face the Pistons. Just a week ago they could have been the 5th seed.

Could have. Sounds familiar doesn't it?

Dr. Jeykll and Mr. Hyde

Martin Biron goes from goat to hero in game 2-earning shutout



The Flyers did it yesterday. They got a win on the road and knotted the series up at one apiece. And, it is all because of Martin Biron who did the Dr. Jekyll-Mr. Hyde routine when he shut out the Capitals. And, John Stevens even intimated that he might yank Biron if he didn't have a good game on Sunday.

I was shocked to see him play at this level yesterday. Never did I think the Caps would win yesterday. There was something just...different about the Fly guys yesterday. They played like they were not going to allow the Caps in the game at any time as opposed to playing hockey's equivalent to the "prevent defense" on Friday night.

Biron earned his third shutout in four games. I am still not sold on him. Of the two shutouts at the end of the season one was against a Penguins team that didn't put their best foot forward. The Jersey game was a good win though. So, that's two shut-down performances in four games for Biron.

Now, if they come to the Wach and he plays like this again I'll start to become a believer. Yesterday was a hell of a start. The Flyers typically need games to be high scoring in order to win and their defense rarely has stepped up. On Sunday they did their part.

And, Biron certainly did his.

It's a brand new series now as the Flyers tied it up and head to Philly. This is what it's all about. The Wach will be rocking on Tuesday night. It's been two long years since we've had playoff hockey and we'd all like to forget that series against Buffalo when Danny Briere put on a sweater for them.

----------------------

Sixers falling apart

Meanwhile, there's another playoff team in town who is leaking oil and alarming rate.

Since the Sixers clinched a playoff spot in Atlanta over a week ago, they have lost 3 of 4 games and are just 3-5 over their past 8 games.

For them to lay a turd against the Pacers on Friday night is a complete joke. There's no reason in hell for them to put up less than 80 points against a Pacers team coached by Jim O'Brien. Jim O'Brien is a poor man's George Karl and couldn't coach a bunch of cockroaches on how to defend a loaf of bread from invaders. He has to be the worst defensive coach in the league and has made a career out of dismissing offense for defense and yet he is somehow employed by the Pacers.

And, then the Sixers laid down in the 4th quarter against the Wizards on Saturday night-the same team they are supposed to be competing with for the 5th/6th seed. And, they executed their shots as poorly as they've done at any point this season.

Looks like they blew their wad when they went 19-5 during February and March. Now they look like a team that is just tired and confused.

I don't even see them winning a game in the first round with the way they're playing. They'll likely play Detroit now and it will be a sweep.

Don't get me wrong, it's a nice step for this young team to take, but it's also disappointing to see them crawling into the playoffs like Clint Eastwood's "blondie" character crawled through the desert in "The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly."

Saturday, April 12, 2008

Melt Down

Flyers blow 2-goal lead in 3rd period to lose game one 5-4



I hate to be the one who said last night that "I told you so" but I knew this was going to happen when the Flyers had a 4-2 lead and were playing as if the game was already in hand. As I was watching this game with my girlfriend I told her that the Flyers would blow the lead and lose it 5-4.

There's something about this team that stinks of choking. Maybe they're too young. Maybe their goalie isn't good enough. Maybe the coach isn't an NHL-level coach. It's probably a combo of the three. And, of course there's the factor of having seen this sort of thing play itself out so many times before with all four of our teams.

I'll admit I'm anything but an expert on hockey. But, even I can see that this team is not a championship team. Hell, they're not even capable of advancing more than a round in the playoffs because Biron isn't a franchise goalie.

With that said, last night was frustrating and another chapter in the endless abyss of frustration that is known as Philadelphia sports.

The Flyers wasted a key opportunity to get a 1-0 lead in this series and it's a big deal when you can go on the road and win the first game. They had shut down the reincarnation of Wayne Gretzky, otherwise known as Alexander "The Great" Ovechkin for some 53 minutes only to see that hard work go down the tubes when he fired the game winning goal in the net.

The men in orange and black had this game...well for 2 periods they did. That's the problem with this team. They aren't a closer. They're like that guy in the bar who is great at talking to girls, but when it comes down to closing the deal he chokes up. Raise your hand if you have a friend like this. Everybody does. And, that's the Flyers for you.

I don't expect them to advance beyond this series because the guy who can't close the deal is Biron. The goalie is the last line of defense and when all else fails he has to step up. Giving up 5 goals in the first game of the playoffs (including 3 in the 3rd period) doesn't cut it.

Don't be surprised to see this game go 6 or 7 though, but don't be surprised to see it end in disaster.

Friday, April 11, 2008

Weekly Wrap-Up

Legendary baseball manager Earl Weaver would have a field day after last night's loss



This week it's all about the Phillies and Mets. Sure, the Flyers are in the playoffs, but they have been idle since Sunday. And, the Eagles are well...doing nothing until the draft it seems. And, the Sixers were idle until Wednesday after losing to the Hawks on Saturday night, for which yours truly had the luxury of sitting courtside at that game.

The Phillies-Mets series was very frustrating. And, who better to break it down than former foul-mouthed Orioles legendary skipper Earl Weaver. To give you some context on how funny of a guy Mr. Weaver was, check out this interview of him on a pre-game radio show.



After hearing that, those of you who never heard of him will understand what the hell I'm talking about. Let's let it rip.

Picture Earl Weaver being the General Manger of the Phillies and not Pat Gillick who has one foot out the door already and who is seemingly less interested in his job than Jim Jay Bullock was into women. Weaver would not stand for the travesty that was this series. Here's an imaginary interview between Howard Eskin and Phillies GM Earl Weaver.

Eskin: Ladies and gentlemen I want to welcome Phillies General Manager Earl Weaver. And, for this interview I requested we use the bleep button for curses, because we all know how much Earl likes to let it fly.

Weaver is laughing on the line.

Eskin: Aint that right Earl?

Weaver: F***ing right!

Eskin: So, Earl you can't be too happy with the way this series went down. Eric Bruntlett was a complete disaster. Let's be honest.

Weaver: Eric Bruntlett is a goddamn f***ing disgrace. I wouldn't hire him to mop up the f***ing c*m off the floor at my goddamn nudie booth for f***'s sake.

Eskin: Ha ha ha. Well, Earl I doubt much of that got on the air, but let's continue. Do you think Bruntlett will be on the team much longer.

Weaver: If I see that c***sucker in the locker room next week I'll hit him in the head with something so he's in the f***ing goddamn ER and on the f***ing fritz.

Eskin: Wow! That's quite shocking Earl. So, you mean to tell the listeners and myself you would assault one of your players.

Weaver: He aint my f***Ing player. That idiot Ruben Amaro wanted him. Not me. Him and that cheap f**k Montgomery wanted to get somebody cheaper than Nunez. I told those motherf***rs I wanted Nunez back. And, what do they do? They f**k me with this Bruntlett guy. Look at him. He looks like Brett Favre's drunken degenerate f***ing brother!



Eskin: So, Earl are you trying to talk your way out of a job? You obviously don't have much respect for Dave Montgomery.

Weaver: Dave Montgomery has to be the cheapest motherf***er I ever met. I bet he would try cheap it out for his mother's own funeral. S**t, he'd probably try and bury her in a f***ing homemade plywood f***ing box and take it to the goddamn f***ing funeral home!

Eskin: Ha ha ha! So...uh-ha-Earl what do you think of the pitching on this team in light of this series against the Mets.

Weaver: Well Eaton surprised the f**k out of me. I thought he'd take a s**t, but he hung in there. That Bruntlett f***er cost us the goddamn series. Plain and f***ing simple. And, that ump definitely f***ed us last night. But, it doesn't help when your offense hits the ball like a bunch of pussies.

Eskin: Well that certainly doesn't help. So, if you're still with the team and I'm assuming you might get fired after this-

Weaver: Why do you say that? I got pictures of Montgomery. Did you hear the interview I did on Daily News Live last month? That made this look like a f***ing episode of Mr. Rogers.

Eskin: Ha ha ha. Yeah I did hear that, but you threatened to assault a player.

Weaver: Who gives a f**k? He's not a star.

Eskin: Well, we're out of time today Earl. It's always a pleasure to have you on.

Weaver: You're f***ing right it's a pleasure Eskin. And, like I always say, the f**k with your show, f**k Dave Montgomery and Bill Giles you can come and kiss my ass whenever you want.

Eskin: Earl Weaver everybody.

Thursday, April 10, 2008

Stumblin' N' Bumblin'

Kendrick gets pounded and Phils commit 4 errors in ugly loss



I'll admit it. Yesterday I was starting to believe in this team. They were 4-4 and on the heels of a 2-game winning streak and they have absolutely owned the Mets recently.

Last night, the combination of missing Jimmy Rollins and a poor pitching performance resulted in an 8-2 disaster.

But now, I'm thinking they'll probably be a .500 team in April, which is better than they've fared in recent years so I'll take what I can get.

Kyle Kendrick was brutal, giving up 7 runs and less than 3 innings. Looks like he's gonna have a sophomore slump this season.

Jimmy Rollins' replacement Eric Bruntlett played like he never played shortstop in the majors before.

So far this season they've committed 13 errors, which puts them at the top of the heap in the majors in that category.

So, will the Phillies continue the same pattern and lose today? So far this season they've lost 2, won 2, lost 2, won 2, and lost. With Adam Eaton on the hill my guess is the pattern continues.

Despite all of their pitching woes, defensive blunders, and offensive inconsistencies they are still 4-5. Now, that's probably the biggest surprise so far this season.

-------------------------------------------

McNabb preaches patience

With the Eagles failing to land a #1 wideout McNabb says to be patient.

"It's a growing process," said McNabb, who spoke last night at Syracuse University. "We haven't brought in a receiver or anything on offense, but on defense, we've definitely filled some holes and added some more playmakers."

Tell that to the millions of Eagles fans and those of us who've been waiting for a championship since 1983. That's ownership-speak and something I wouldn't expect out of McNabb. I like what I've been hearing from him in terms of stepping up to the front office, but a statement like that tells us to be satisfied with the status quo on offense, which just won't cut it.

------------------------------------------

Patterson unlikely to face league discipline

The marijuana charge against Eagles defensive tackle Mike Patterson was dropped yesterday. Looks like he won't face any discipline from the league.

Good news for Eagles fans and better news for him. Next time you decide to toke up Mike, do it in the comfort of your home.

Wednesday, April 9, 2008

In Their Heads?

Billy Wagner claims the Phillies aren't in their heads after yet another meltdown



For 6 innings yesterday the Mets controlled the game and then it all fell apart. The result was the 9th win a row for the Phils against the rival Mets.

Billy Wagner insists the Phillies aren't psyching them out. This was Wagner's reaction to a talking head psychoanalyzing them on TV.

"Some kid just out of high school," fumed Wagner, shaking his head. "The stupid [crap] we deal with."

Personally, I think Wagner is full of BS. Whenever a team loses to another one for that many straight times, the mental aspect has to come into play.

And, there was nothing better than finding out the Phillies ruined the Mets' home opener and turned their fans against them.

However you want to look at it, the Phillies were the biggest part of that collapse last year as they beat the Mets 8 straight down the stretch. That's an 8-game swing right there.

A few days ago I was afraid these were the same old Phillies of season's past, but they are off to their best start since 2005, although they ultimately went 4-6, but over the past seven seasons here's how they fared after 8 games.

Let's break it down:

2001-6-2 start
2002-4-4 start
2003-4-4 start
2004-2-6 start
2005-4-4 start
2006-2-6 start
2007-2-6 start

Already they're a better team then they were in '06 and '07 and that's a good sign. Now, getting through the whole month is another story. If they can continue their dominance over the Mets (they play them 6 games this month), then they can at least go .500 this month and that's better than they've done since 2001 when they started off 13-6 before losing 4 straight to end the month at 13-10.

One thing to be concerned about yesterday is that Jimmy Rollins had a high ankle sprain, but said he could've returned to the game. Correct me if I'm wrong, but that's a 6 week injury in the NFL. I'm sure if he does have a high ankle sprain he won't be back today like they're saying. Perhaps it was a regular sprain. Something to think about. They say he's ok to take the field today.

So far this season they've lost two, won two, lost two, and won two. Let's hope that pattern doesn't continue. Tonight we'll find out with Kyle Kendrick on the hill against Mike Pelfrey. I like our odds tonight. Pelfrey was as effective as a pitching machine last year and made Adam Eaton look like a decent pitcher.

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Let's Get Ready To Rumble

Phillies and Mets set to face off today



Ah, it's that time of the year. The Phillies and Mets are set to duke it out for the first time this season at 1:10.

It's slowly becoming one of the best rivalries in baseball and while it probably won't ever equal the Red Sox-Yankees rivalry, it could certainly rival it.

Carlos Beltran chucked the first molotov cocktail over the fence this year by stating that Santana made the Mets the team to beat. Jimmy Rollins countered by saying they would win 100 games.

It's fun to see both sides going back and forth; it's really what makes brings out the most fun in sports. It shows that players care as much as the fans because in this day and age it's becoming more apparent that many players look at it as a job like we view our daily jobs and they walk away when the season is over as the fans suffer.

Pat Burrell is starting out like a house on fire this season with a .450 average and 3 dingers and 9 RBI in the first 7 games. He is a Met killer in his career with 41 homers and 102 RBI against them in his career. He is the key to this series.

The Phils get off easy by not facing Santana and Pedro-well he's on the fritz for a month and a half so we needn't worry about him either.

Look for the Phils get back to .500 and take at least 2 of 3 from them this week.

Oliver Perez will go up against Jamie Moyer today at 1:10.

Monday, April 7, 2008

Same Ole Phils

Phillies implode in 6th inning; lose to Reds 8-2



Ok, it's another season and the Phillies are stinking it up to start the season. For a second I thought they were going to turn a corner when they won on Friday night.

It was shocking. They were actually 2-2 and not 0-4 for once. Time to get positive.

Well, I was wrong. Looks like we're headed for another 10-14 month with them finding ways to lose. Hell, it's almost like they're trying to lose. I think they should hire some FBI agents to tail these players and look at what websites they're going onto, because they might be betting against themselves with the way they're playing.

Yesterday was an abomination. Let's call it what it was. The manager sucked. Myers sucked. The offense sucked. The whole team stunk like a bucket of rotten mackerels.

Myers had another lousy start and was out-pitched by a rookie. This time Edinson Volquez was lights out for the Reds. And, on a side note, with Aaron Harang and Bronson Arroyo already in that rotation, now that they have Johny Cueto and Volquez- look out. Because Homer Bailey is seen by many as the a top 5 pitching prospect, but he might not even be the best prospect on the team now. The Reds are going to be scary.

The same can't be said for the Phillies' motley crew. Cole Hamels is the only reliable option right now. Brett Myers is starting off slow just like last season. Adam Eaton of all pitchers actually had a good start on Saturday, but can we honestly expect him to pitch like that more than 10% of the time? Jamie Moyer is 45 years old and just a 5-6 inning pitcher. And, Kyle Kendrick is shaky still. Carlos Carrasco seems to be a year away from a year away. And, is Josh Outman a world beater? Their pitching staff scares the bejesus out of me.

The defense is also abominable on this team. You have to wonder if their heads are even in the game. Not to mention, their offense has been inconsistent. With the way they're playing right now they'll be lucky to win 5 games this month.

I didn't even mention the Rich Kotite of baseball managers. Everybody knows he's a good player's manager, but Uncle Charlie never excelled in the game management department. I just love it now when I hear talk show hosts bashing him when they were calling for him to be Manager of the Year last year. My opinion on Manuel is this. He was never that great and never that bad. He's a little above average overall, but hardly deserves to take a lot of the blame for Tom Gordon's F-ups and the blunders by the pitching staff and general lack of offense. He's an easy target, a bandwagon target if you will-a lightning rod. Manuel shouldn't take credit for the overall lousy performances across the board.

Can we just resign ourselves to the fact that the Phillies aren't ever going to be good in April? Maybe it's the makeup of this team. Or, it's mental.

It sure makes me mental watching this team. Like my old man used to say, "these stinking bums drive me to drink."

At least Pat Burrell isn't swinging like a rusty gate like my Dad used to say. He's one of the few bright spots on this team right now.

Saturday, April 5, 2008

Three Is A Crowd

Flyers and Sixers clinch playoff berths and Phillies get to .500 with win



Just a week ago we witnessed a quadruple whammy with all four Philly teams losing on the same night. And, on Friday night the worm turned and our squads made a complete 180.

Not only did the Flyers and Sixers clinch playoff berths, but the Phillies defeated the Reds to get to 2-2. Now, it doesn't sound like much, but lets remember this is the same Phillies team which has gotten off to horrific starts for what seems like every year for the past decade.

Like I said last week, just what are the odds of four of our teams playing on the same night and losing? Well, what are the odds of two of them clinching playoff spots on the same night and another one winning? They have to be astronomical.

First, the Flyers knocked off the Devils 3-0 and from the opening moments you just knew the Flyers wanted this game more than the Devils. They hit, hit, and hit some more. And, they attacked Marty Brodeur relentlessly. Although, they had just a 1-0 lead heading into the 3rd period, it was clear they weren't going to lose.

And, meanwhile the Sixers took care of business down in Atlanta, defeating them 109-104. Andre Iguodala had a monster game-knocking down 30 points and it included the final 10 points of the game.

So it went...the Flyers and Sixers both clinched playoff berths within minutes of one another.

The Phillies got off to a late start with an hour and a half rain delay in Cincy and once they got rolling, Kyle Kendrick stepped up with a nice game and helped lead the Phils to a W. I was a little nervous about KK's prospects heading into the season with a lousy spring and the possible sophomore slump, but it was refreshing to see him pitch well.

So far this year, it's the best night of the year for our squads. You don't get too many of these in Philly.

Friday, April 4, 2008

Weekly Wrap-Up

Anton Chigurgh would scare some sense into the likes of Andy Reid and David Montgomery



It's been another frustrating week in the world Philly sports. The Phillies are off to another slow start, barely winning yesterday to get to 1-2. Andy Reid is pissing us off with comments about how great they are at wide receiver. And, the Flyers are falling into oblivion.

What is a fan of these teams supposed to do? We don't have a police force to keep these owners, front office types, coaches, and players in check. There is no governing body.

Well, turns out our best friend in these times would be none other than the infamous killing machine Anton Chirgurgh who could scare the living shit out of Genghis Khan.

David Montgomery came out of his hole the other night during a brutal 1-0 loss and sat in the booth with his flunkie Chris Wheeler.

I can promise you that Anton Chigurgh wasn't throwing him softballs. Here's their exchange.

Montgomery: So, I was told that you needed to see me.

Anton: I don't know did I?

Montgomery: Is there a problem?

Anton: I don't know just yet. Why would you ask that?

Montgomery: You just show up to my office unannounced. How did you get in here?

Anton: Don't worry about how I got in here...friendo. Let me ask you something. This team you own the Phillies. You seem to act like you're acting in good faith and in the fans' best interests.

Montgomery: That's what any good owner would do.

Anton: Oh. How did you come to own this team?

Montgomery: I started here over 30 years ago and a good friend of mine Bill Giles, who owned the team brought me into the fold.

Anton: Cronieism. I see.

Montgomery: Excuse me.

Anton: Your friend put you in here. You were one of his cronies. That's cronieism. You'd never have done this on your own. You're just not that talented.

Montgomery: Well, that's one way of looking at it.

Anton: That's not a way of looking at it. That's the way it is. So, do you have any intentions of spending a lot more money on a real starting pitcher?

Montgomery: That all depends.

Anton: I see. How much money does an average ticket cost to watch this team?

Montgomery: Well, it could be $30-$40.

Anton: "It could be $30-$40" is not a number. How much is it?

Montgomery: About that figure.

Anton: You don't even know what you're talking about do you. Let me ask you, what's the most you ever lost in a coin toss?

Montgomery: I don't know how to answer that.

He flips a coin and slams it on the desk.

Anton: Call it.

Montgomery: What do I stand to win?

Anton: Just call it.

Montgomery: I need to know what's at stake.

Anton: You stand to gain everything. Just call it.

Montgomery: Ok, heads.

Anton: Uh oh, hey David. It's tails.

Anton pulls out a gun and puts it to Montgomery's head.

Anton: Now, since you lost you must say as loud as you can that, "I am a shitty owner and have no intentions of spending enough to win a World Series."

Montgomery: Please, don't kill me.

Anton: I won't, if you repeat what I said. Now, say it!

Montgomery (shouting): I AM A SHITTY OWNER AND HAVE NO INTENTIONS OF SPENDING ENOUGH TO WIN A WORLD SERIES!!!

Anton: Now, go spend some more money friendo, because I wanna go about shooting everybody I can see when I watch this team blow leads. And, you'll be the first to go.

Montgomery: Yes sir.

Now, we'll turn to an encounter between Anton and Andy Reid in his living room.

Andy: Hmmmfff, how did you get in here?

Anton: You left the backdoor open, friendo.

Andy: Awww man. I did it last week and one of my son's friends stole our plasma TV.

Anton: What a shame. Let me ask you, if a player doesn't catch a ball in the end zone more than a few times a year, does he remain a good player?

Andy: Well, that all depends.

Anton: Everybody always says that.

Andy: Says what?

Anton: "Well, that all depends." Nobody can ever shoot straight with me. You people all sound like politicians, dodging the question. Now, I'll ask you again. If you have a wide receiver, you know someone who catches the football and they NEVER get in the endzone are they a good player?

Andy: No.

Anton: Good. Well, why do you tell the fans they are?

Andy: Because, I am afraid to bash my players in the media and because I am a stubborn person who doesn't care what the fans think.

Anton: Oh. Shocking.

Andy: What's shocking?

Anton: Your unbelievable candor. The last guy, a guy who owns another team in this town was the exact opposite. I appreciate you admitting your faults.

Andy: Well, it's all an act with me. I know I make the fans mad, but it's my way or the highway.

Anton: Ok, well I suggest you get a real player in here to catch the football.

Andy: I don't understand.

Anton: Yes you do.

A long pause as Anton stares down Big Red and puts the fear of God into him.

Andy: Ok, I will.

Anton: Good. I'll be back in a week if you don't.


And, there you have it. Anton saved two teams. David Montgomery was scared shitless and forced the other owners to sell the team to a real owner and Andy Reid has been scared straight.

If only this were for real.

Thursday, April 3, 2008

Dude, Where Was The Offense?

Phillies' offense completely lays down as Hamels pitches a gem



Those same damn April Phillies are rearing their ugly heads once again.

What is it with this team that every year they begin the season on such a sour note? Is it the cold April nights? Is the fact that they're unconditioned and totally unprepared to begin the season? Or, is it a mental thing like Jayson Werth intimated the other day?

Whatever it is, they were absolutely pathetic. I happen to think it's mental because they do it every year and it has to weigh on their minds.

I'm not shocked at all what transpired last night. As I predicted yesterday on my blog, I said to expect Hamels to pitch lights out for 8 or 9 innings. He happened to do it for 8 innings and only allowed a run. The problem is the offense laid down like a bunch of dogs.

What the Phillies' offense displayed last night bordered on criminal. They didn't even get one damn runner in scoring position. To go from 11 runs in the opener to 1 hit last night is an abomination especially considering Hamels needed their support!

Charlie Manuel needs to have a closed door meeting today to nip this thing in the bud before it gets any worse. There is no such thing as a "must-win game" in the third game of the season like tonight, but they had better stop the bleeding so they don't have another 4-11 start like last year or another 10-14 April like they seem to have EVERY year.

The Phillies have a prime opportunity to get out to a fast start now that Pedro Martinez is on the fritz for the next 6 weeks. Like I said, I'm not that worried about the Mets because aside from Santana and Maine, their rotation is nothing to be afraid of.

But, the Phillies have to get their (expletive deleted) together, otherwise they will spending all summer playing catch-up and they'll be spent by October should they win the division.

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Jason Smith hookin' up with Mary Cary

Looks like 76ers rookie Jason Smith got some off the court action at the night club "Butter" in New York City.

But, it was with porn star Mary Carey. Word is she jumped on him and started making out with him.



That's just flat out trifling. I sure hope he disinfected his mouth with alcohol after that makeout session! We're talking a porn star here, not the girl next door! There's no telling where that mouth has been off camera considering where it goes on camera!

Wednesday, April 2, 2008

He'd Rather Be Doc

Barack Obama calls into WIP once again



While this time he certainly won't rile up people like Howard Eskin, when he made the "typical white person" comment, Barack Obama certainly will make Dr. J fans happy.

He called into The Morning Show once again and when asked whether he'd like to be a professional athlete or president, he stated that Dr. J was his idol growing up and he'd rather be him than president.

You gotta love the honesty. A "typical" politician would dance around the question or joke and play both sides of the fence, but he had fun with it and was honest.

The Obama haters out there will probably take this to mean he'd rather be an athlete so how can we take him serious as a candidate. I beg to differ. I look at it as a testament to how honest he is in an era when politicians are anything but.

Does this mean he's 100% honest? Absolutely not. No politician is. Hell, I doubt any human being is honest all of the time. It's just not in our nature as human beings.

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Take Two
Phillies go for their first win tonight with Hamels on the hill


I can guarantee one thing and that's the Nationals will not score 11 runs again tonight. The reason being is that King Cole is on the hill.

I wouldn't be shocked if he went the distance tonight. For those of you degenerates out there who bet on baseball see if you can find a prop bet on Cole Hamels to go more than 7 innings. If you see that bet. Take it.

My prediction is the Phillies will win a low-scoring affair tonight. The weather will be chilly and Hamels will go 8 innings and pitch a gem.

Tuesday, April 1, 2008

Opening Stinker

Gordon coughs up 5 earned runs in 9th as Phils lose season opener



The Phillies have now dropped 5 of their past 7 season openers since 2002 with yesterday's loss to the Nationals.

The culprit in this one was one Tom "Trash" Gordon, who you would think was trying to lose the game with the way he pitched. All in all he pitched one third of an inning, 20 pitches, 9 strikes, and gave up 5 runs to blow the game.

Charlie Manuel will assume all the blame for this one. He certainly deserves some because Romero should have stayed in the game, but the bottom line is Gordon should not have given up 5 earned runs in the friggin' 9th inning.

And, Brett Myers didn't exactly set the world on fire either, going just 5 innings and giving up 4 runs (3 earned). It was yet another opening day stinker for the Phils and it's setting the stage for yet another poor April. We've all seen this play out before. April for the Phillies is like watching a porno flick when the guy comes to fix the cable. You just know who's about to get F'd.

The offense did their job yesterday. Anytime you score 11 runs in a game, you should win the damn game.

The Phillies are idle until tomorrow when they'll get to try it all over again with Cole Hamels on the hill. Let's just hope he pitches a complete game and they can somehow get to the Reds series without using Gordon in that spot again before Lidge returns.

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Roy Williams trade rumor

Looks like I didn't start the widespread frenzy with my Roy Williams trade rumor this morning. That was an April Fool's Joke. In this day of the internet age, it's awfully hard to pull one off like that especially when anybody can just check espn, cbssports.com, or profootballtalk.com to see if there's validity to the rumor.

Better luck next year.

Trade Imminent

Eagles are close to trading for Roy Williams



After speaking to a couple sources within the Eagles, I've determined that they are close to trading Lito Sheppard to the Lions for Roy Williams.

The Eagles and Lions will also swap draft picks. It's said the Eagles will send one of their 4th round picks to the Lions for a 5th or 6th round pick.

Banner and Williams' agent are busy in contract negotiations right now and once that's complete, the trade can be finalized. The only hangup appears to be the number of years. The Eagles are said to be offering 6 years and $63 million with $35 million guaranteed in the first 4 years of the contract. Williams and his agent want 7 years and close to $75 million.

If the Eagles are willing to shell out that kind of money then the odds are this deal will get done.

Now, on the other side of things the Lions are actively working with Lito Sheppard's agent to hammer out a contract. They will use Asante Samuel and DeAngelo Hall's big money contracts as parameters for that deal. The Lions unlike the Eagles are willing to make the trade because Sheppard, his agent, and the Lions have a contract laid out that will pay him $57 million over 6 years with $23 million guaranteed.

Expect for this deal to be done by the end of today or at the latest tomorrow. This trade will no doubt catapult the Eagles to among the elite teams in the NFC. Roy Williams has played four seasons and started 52 games and he has 245 receptions for 3,652 yards and 28 touchdowns. His best season was in 2006 when he had 82 catches for 1310 yards and 8 TD's. He was hurt for much of last year, but when healthy he's among the top 5 or 6 wideouts in the NFL.