Today we are on to our playoff and awards picks for 2009. Because we already broke down each divison, and since we did a write up on all the teams, thus covering many of the things we would here, we'll let these picks speak for themselves. (If you are wondering, The Kicker's picks say "I am a tool" while Juice's picks say "I am more bold, but also probably an idiot.")
Fear not, however, baseball week is not over yet. Tomorrow will feature a baseball themed top ten TBD.
With that, let's go ahead and fast forward to October.
Juice's Predictions
American League
ALDS:
Rays over Angels
Twins over Red Sox
ALCS:
Rays over Twins
National League
NLDS:
Reds over Phillies
Dodgers over Cubs
NLCS:
Dodgers over Reds
World Series
Dodgers over Rays
Awards
American League:
MVP - Josh Hamilton, Texas Rangers
CY Young - Jon Lester, Boston Red Sox
Rookie of the Year -Travis Snider, Toronto Blue Jays
National League
MVP - Matt Kemp, Los Angeles Dodgers
CY Young - Tim Lincecum, San Francisco Giants (Darkhorse: Ricky Nolasco, Florida Marlins)
Rookie of the Year - Pablo Sandoval, San Francisco Giants
Ok. I kind of lied. I do have some things to say kind of wrapping up my picks. As I was doing research (yes, we do research here at Juice and the Kicker - or at least one of us does) on my picks I came to an exciting conlcusion about the 2009 MLB season: There are no dominant teams. In fact, pretty much every division has at least two or three teams that could legitimatley make a run at the playoffs. That makes it more difficult to predict the season, but it also makes 2009 one of the more compelling seasons in recent memory. I wouldn't be surprised if any team made the playoffs, aside from a handful of clearly abysmal teams (sorry San Diego, Baltimore, Pittsburgh, and Washington). The rest of the league, however, is relatively wide open. And that, should make baseball fans very excited. Well, at least the fans who can still afford tickets.
- Juice
The Kickers Predictions
American League Playoffs
ALDS:
Twins over Rays
Red Sox over Angels
ALCS:
Red Sox over Twins
NLDS:
Dodgers over Mets
Cubs over Phillies
NLCS:
Cubs over Dodgers
World Series
Cubs over Red Sox (yes, I just went there)
Awards
American League
MVP - Justin Morneau, Minnesota Twins
Cy Young - Roy Halladay, Toronto Blue Jays
Rookie of the Year - Matt Wieters, Baltimore Orioles
National League
MVP - Manny Ramirez, Los Angeles Dodgers
Cy Young - Tim Lincecum, San Francisco Giants
Rookie of the Year - Jordan Zimmerman, Washington Nationals
Wednesday, April 1, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
MLB Preview: West
It is day three of baseball preview week here at Juice and The Kicker. Today we are running through the AL and NL West divisions. So let's just go ahead and jump right on in.
Juice's Predictions
AL West:
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
2. Texas Rangers
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Oakland Athletics
Let me make one thing abundantly clear: Just because I put the Rangers in second place, doesn't mean they will be good. It just means they will be the least bad of the three bad teams in this division. Honestly, though, if the Rangers could just find some damn pitching (you haven't had any since Nolan Ryan for Christ sakes. How have you not picked up on this yet?) they would win this division running away. The Angels are not that good. They are good. But not THAT good. The Rangers offense is vastly superior, and could very well be the best offense in baseball, for that matter. But, man is that rotation bad. Just one or two pitchers. That is all you need to be a serious contender. Maybe Ryan can make a comeback...
Why did I move the Mariners ahead of the A's in the standings you may wonder. They just traded for Matt Holliday and signed Jason Giambi, after all. To be honest I threw up in my mouth a little when I saw their pitching staff. I'm sure you'll do the same. Even if Oakland scores 10 runs a game, they'll lose 11-10.
I would like to give Billy Beane kudos, however, for basically trading away a set of inferior prospects in essence for a set of new prospects that should, in theory, be much better. That isn't technically what he did, but after he trades Matt Holliday for the new set, that is how the scenario will play out -- old crappy prospects for new less crappy prospects. Genius.
As for the Mariners, they are bound to be better than last year. That isn't taking much of a leap of faith, of course, since they were the worst team in baseball. However, I still believe in Erik Bedard, and Felix Hernandez dominates about once every fifth game he pitches (the other four games are atrocious mind you). Based on that pitching, I think they can squeak ahead of their A's. And, yes, I did have to spend an inordinate amount of time talking myself into Seattle's offense. It can't be any worse than the A's though. You know, once they trade away Holliday.
(Note: I am a little worried about John Lackey and Ervin Santana, but if all goes according to plan they should be back about a month into the season. If they aren't, this division could turn into a toss up rat race.)
NL West:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
Clayton Kershaw is the key to the NL west which, of course, is strange because Clayton Kershaw is younger than me. Without Kershaw stepping up, the Dodgers have absolutely no pitching depth. Yes, Chad Billingsley has proven himself a very good pitcher, and both Hiroki Kuroda and Randy Wolf are serviceable, but without Kershaw putting up good numbers, this rotation could struggle. The fact is, however, The Dodgers have far and away the best lineup in the division, and probably the deepest team in baseball. They have two guys on the bench that would start on many teams (Juan Pierre and Blake DeWitt) and one of the best backup catchers in baseball (Brad Ausmus) who, might I add, is backing up one of the best starting catchers in baseball. This is quite the turnaround for the Dodgers – a very talented offense and a questionable pitching staff. All they need is for Manny to kidnap Pedro and the team will basically be set.
The way I see it, the Dodgers realistically have two challengers for the top spot in the division: The Arizona Diamondbacks and the San Francisco Giants. The Giants, if they can muster up some offense (Pablo Sandoval anyone?) could very well compete for the top spot in the division. They have three exceptional young pitchers in Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathon Sanchez, and two solid veterans in Randy Johnson and Barry Zito. And, yes, I realize I just called Barry Zito a “solid veteran,” but consider this: He will very likely be the fifth starter by the end of the year. Yes, I realize he is making around $18 million a year, but if you throw out that fact, he is a pretty damn good fifth starter. He won ten games last year. If you stop thinking of him as an ace, just because the Giants were dumb enough to give him ace money, and think of him as the fourth or fifth starter he has become, he is still pretty good. Just ponder that for awhile.
As for the Diamondbacks, if their young offense finally breaks out this year, they could be very, very good. They have the pitching (lead by Brandon Webb and Dan Haren) to compete, it is just a matter if Justin Upton and crew finally make “the leap.”
As for the Rockies and Padres, neither one has nearly enough to compete. In fact I am dubbing the Padres as the worst team in baseball this year. Poor Jake Peavey. I really hope he gets traded, both for his sake, and the sake of my fantasy team.
The Kicker's Prediction's
AL West:
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
2. Texas Rangers
3. Oakland Athletics
4. Seattle Mariners
This is the BEST 4 team division in the Major Leagues. The LAAAAAAA are going to win the division, that's basically a lock. A solid, deep rotation (assuming Ervin Santana comes back eventually) and some good, but old, hitters will put them in the playoffs. However, beating out Texas, Oakland and Seattle isn't exactly a daunting task.
The Rangers have a great lineup with a shitty rotation. Wow, thats new for them. They always have great pitching (sarcasm). They could compete for the division title with some pitching and a prolonged visit to the DL by Ervin Santana (he use to want people to call him Johan, I'm dead serious).
The A's and Mariners will battle for 3rd and last but I see the A's prevailing. Any team who gave Carlos Silva $12 million a year can't take third in a division, even if there is only four teams. Sorry Seattle fans. Maybe your team can move to Oklahoma City...But I think the A's will be fine and adding Matt Holliday can't hurt (though in all likelihood he will be traded because thats what small market teams do)
NL West:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
This is another chance for LA to dominate a sport. Just like the LA football team...the LA Clippers...or the LA Kings (are the Kings still a hockey team? If yes, are they in LA?) LA needs both baseball teams to win their divisions to give the fans something to pretend to care about, show up late for and leave early to get to an after party when its the top of the 6th inning. Anyway, enough about LA, they have Manny and he likes warm weather. He will be great and they will win this awful division.
The Arizona Diamondbacks have potential Justin Upton and Stephen Drew but their rotation looks a little shaky after Brandon Webb and Dan Haren. However, former Twin Augie Ojeda seems to like playing their and his name is Augie. Also, Conor Jackson could be a big player for them and if LA slips they will have a chance to win the division. They also have young Billy Buckner, thats not a bad sign at all for a team...
If Tim Line of cum can pitch 150 games the Giants can compete. But since he is only 14 they might be more conservative with him. One fun fact about the Giants is that when newly acquired Randy Johnson started pitching in the MLB Line of cum was 4. Another fun fact, I am older than Pablo Sandoval by 13 days! But for real, the Giants arent very good.
The Rockies have a few decent bats but to win at Coors field you need a miracle but they already used that or they need pitching, they don't have that. Last and certainly least is the Fathers. After losing one of the ugliest pro athletes in Khalil Green (shield your eyes) the Padres are destined for better things, just not in the way of winning games. With a bad lineup and a shaky rotation the Padres are doomed for failure. (They have a really nice ballpark though, its awesome)
Coming Tomorrow: Playoff and Awards Predictions
Juice's Predictions
AL West:
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
2. Texas Rangers
3. Seattle Mariners
4. Oakland Athletics
Let me make one thing abundantly clear: Just because I put the Rangers in second place, doesn't mean they will be good. It just means they will be the least bad of the three bad teams in this division. Honestly, though, if the Rangers could just find some damn pitching (you haven't had any since Nolan Ryan for Christ sakes. How have you not picked up on this yet?) they would win this division running away. The Angels are not that good. They are good. But not THAT good. The Rangers offense is vastly superior, and could very well be the best offense in baseball, for that matter. But, man is that rotation bad. Just one or two pitchers. That is all you need to be a serious contender. Maybe Ryan can make a comeback...
Why did I move the Mariners ahead of the A's in the standings you may wonder. They just traded for Matt Holliday and signed Jason Giambi, after all. To be honest I threw up in my mouth a little when I saw their pitching staff. I'm sure you'll do the same. Even if Oakland scores 10 runs a game, they'll lose 11-10.
I would like to give Billy Beane kudos, however, for basically trading away a set of inferior prospects in essence for a set of new prospects that should, in theory, be much better. That isn't technically what he did, but after he trades Matt Holliday for the new set, that is how the scenario will play out -- old crappy prospects for new less crappy prospects. Genius.
As for the Mariners, they are bound to be better than last year. That isn't taking much of a leap of faith, of course, since they were the worst team in baseball. However, I still believe in Erik Bedard, and Felix Hernandez dominates about once every fifth game he pitches (the other four games are atrocious mind you). Based on that pitching, I think they can squeak ahead of their A's. And, yes, I did have to spend an inordinate amount of time talking myself into Seattle's offense. It can't be any worse than the A's though. You know, once they trade away Holliday.
(Note: I am a little worried about John Lackey and Ervin Santana, but if all goes according to plan they should be back about a month into the season. If they aren't, this division could turn into a toss up rat race.)
NL West:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
Clayton Kershaw is the key to the NL west which, of course, is strange because Clayton Kershaw is younger than me. Without Kershaw stepping up, the Dodgers have absolutely no pitching depth. Yes, Chad Billingsley has proven himself a very good pitcher, and both Hiroki Kuroda and Randy Wolf are serviceable, but without Kershaw putting up good numbers, this rotation could struggle. The fact is, however, The Dodgers have far and away the best lineup in the division, and probably the deepest team in baseball. They have two guys on the bench that would start on many teams (Juan Pierre and Blake DeWitt) and one of the best backup catchers in baseball (Brad Ausmus) who, might I add, is backing up one of the best starting catchers in baseball. This is quite the turnaround for the Dodgers – a very talented offense and a questionable pitching staff. All they need is for Manny to kidnap Pedro and the team will basically be set.
The way I see it, the Dodgers realistically have two challengers for the top spot in the division: The Arizona Diamondbacks and the San Francisco Giants. The Giants, if they can muster up some offense (Pablo Sandoval anyone?) could very well compete for the top spot in the division. They have three exceptional young pitchers in Tim Lincecum, Matt Cain, and Jonathon Sanchez, and two solid veterans in Randy Johnson and Barry Zito. And, yes, I realize I just called Barry Zito a “solid veteran,” but consider this: He will very likely be the fifth starter by the end of the year. Yes, I realize he is making around $18 million a year, but if you throw out that fact, he is a pretty damn good fifth starter. He won ten games last year. If you stop thinking of him as an ace, just because the Giants were dumb enough to give him ace money, and think of him as the fourth or fifth starter he has become, he is still pretty good. Just ponder that for awhile.
As for the Diamondbacks, if their young offense finally breaks out this year, they could be very, very good. They have the pitching (lead by Brandon Webb and Dan Haren) to compete, it is just a matter if Justin Upton and crew finally make “the leap.”
As for the Rockies and Padres, neither one has nearly enough to compete. In fact I am dubbing the Padres as the worst team in baseball this year. Poor Jake Peavey. I really hope he gets traded, both for his sake, and the sake of my fantasy team.
The Kicker's Prediction's
AL West:
1. Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim
2. Texas Rangers
3. Oakland Athletics
4. Seattle Mariners
This is the BEST 4 team division in the Major Leagues. The LAAAAAAA are going to win the division, that's basically a lock. A solid, deep rotation (assuming Ervin Santana comes back eventually) and some good, but old, hitters will put them in the playoffs. However, beating out Texas, Oakland and Seattle isn't exactly a daunting task.
The Rangers have a great lineup with a shitty rotation. Wow, thats new for them. They always have great pitching (sarcasm). They could compete for the division title with some pitching and a prolonged visit to the DL by Ervin Santana (he use to want people to call him Johan, I'm dead serious).
The A's and Mariners will battle for 3rd and last but I see the A's prevailing. Any team who gave Carlos Silva $12 million a year can't take third in a division, even if there is only four teams. Sorry Seattle fans. Maybe your team can move to Oklahoma City...But I think the A's will be fine and adding Matt Holliday can't hurt (though in all likelihood he will be traded because thats what small market teams do)
NL West:
1. Los Angeles Dodgers
2. Arizona Diamondbacks
3. San Francisco Giants
4. Colorado Rockies
5. San Diego Padres
This is another chance for LA to dominate a sport. Just like the LA football team...the LA Clippers...or the LA Kings (are the Kings still a hockey team? If yes, are they in LA?) LA needs both baseball teams to win their divisions to give the fans something to pretend to care about, show up late for and leave early to get to an after party when its the top of the 6th inning. Anyway, enough about LA, they have Manny and he likes warm weather. He will be great and they will win this awful division.
The Arizona Diamondbacks have potential Justin Upton and Stephen Drew but their rotation looks a little shaky after Brandon Webb and Dan Haren. However, former Twin Augie Ojeda seems to like playing their and his name is Augie. Also, Conor Jackson could be a big player for them and if LA slips they will have a chance to win the division. They also have young Billy Buckner, thats not a bad sign at all for a team...
If Tim Line of cum can pitch 150 games the Giants can compete. But since he is only 14 they might be more conservative with him. One fun fact about the Giants is that when newly acquired Randy Johnson started pitching in the MLB Line of cum was 4. Another fun fact, I am older than Pablo Sandoval by 13 days! But for real, the Giants arent very good.
The Rockies have a few decent bats but to win at Coors field you need a miracle but they already used that or they need pitching, they don't have that. Last and certainly least is the Fathers. After losing one of the ugliest pro athletes in Khalil Green (shield your eyes) the Padres are destined for better things, just not in the way of winning games. With a bad lineup and a shaky rotation the Padres are doomed for failure. (They have a really nice ballpark though, its awesome)
Coming Tomorrow: Playoff and Awards Predictions
MLB Preview: Central
It is day two of baseball preview week here at Juice and The Kicker. Today we are running through the AL and NL Central divisions. So let's just go ahead and jump right on in.
Juice’s Predictions
AL Central:
1. Minnesota Twins
2. Cleveland Indians
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Detroit Tigers
Everybody in the AL Central sucks. Everyone. The Twins have the best rotation, and arguably the worst bullpen. Every lineup has a few decent hitters, and a few questionable hitters. Honestly, even the Royals have a fighting chance in this division. Not a good chance, mind you, but a chance. You could essentially throw the names of all the teams in the Central in a hat, pull them out randomly, and come up with an acceptable prediction for how the division will shake out.
I picked the Twins for two reasons. First of all, they have the best rotation. By far. Second of all I am a homer. Although, I will say, it always makes me nervous picking the Twins because I feel it jinxes them. On the flip side if I don’t have confidence in my team why follow them? Plus, confidence is sexy. I am sexy. Therefore, I picked the Twins. Simple isn’t it?
Also, for sake of full disclosure, the White Sox are my least favorite franchise in all of sports. My bias against them is so strong, I wanted put them in last place. Unfortunately, they are probably slightly better than that. Luckily, though, Kenny Williams ridiculous wheeling and dealing continues to make no sense, and will eventually completely destroy the franchise. So that’s something to look forward to.
Finally, I would just like to apologize for putting the Tigers in last. The city of Detroit is depressed enough as it is. But, well, they're bad. Sorry. They just are.
NL Central:
1. Cincinnati Reds
2. Chicago Cubs
3. St. Louis Cardinals
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Houston Astros
6. Pittsburgh Pirates
I want to start by saying the Pirates are probably the most depressing franchise in all of sports. Let’s just say the last time the Pirates had a decent season Barry Bonds looked like this. Not only that, but there is really no end in sight for the Pirates futility. They have done a terrible job of finding, and developing, young talent, and do not have a single established star on their roster. Maybe it will turn around eventually for the Pirates, but not any time soon. At least you have the Steelers people of Pittsburgh. And the Penguins might be good too, but who would know that?
As for the rest of the division, the Astros and Brewers both have such terrible pitching staffs they have little chance of competing. The Cardinals will be solid, because they always are – thanks almost wholly to Albert Pujols – but there just isn’t enough there to make a run at the playoffs.
Also, as some of you may be aware, Milwaukee was “on fire” in 1982 (the season the Brewers made the World Series for the first time). It took 26 years for the Brewers to regain that flaming magic by returning to the playoffs. Well Milwaukee, I would just like to say get ready for another 26 years, because last year was a Sabathia driven aberration.
Now I know what you are thinking. “I don’t care about the Brewers, Astros, Cardinals or Pirates. You picked the Reds to win the division you crack head. Explain yourself.”
Well alright. I will. But only if you calm down.
Ready? Deep breath.
The Reds will have the best rotation in baseball this year. Yeah. That’s right. The best. They have six solid options at starting pitcher, two of whom are arguably the most talented young pitchers in all of baseball (Johnny Cueto and Edinson Volquez). Couple that with veterans Aaron Harang (who will have a bounce back year) and the always solid Bronson Arroyo, along with two viable fifth starter options (Homer Bailey and Micah Owings) and the Reds’ rotation will be scary good.
The only question surrounding Cincinnati will be their offense. There is, however, enough young talent there to carry the team to the playoffs. I love Brandon Phillips, Jay Bruce and Joey Votto; and the rest of the lineup is solid enough to compete. I expect big things from the Reds.
As for the Cubs, I just don’t see their starting rotation holding up all year. If they can eventually pull off the Jake Peavey trade rumored this offseason, things could change very quickly. Until then, it’s all about the Reds baby!
The Kicker's Predictions
AL Central:
1. Minnesota Twins
2. Cleveland Indians
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Detroit Tigers
5. Kansas City Royals
Alright, I know you're thinking this is a homer pick but it really isn't. I honestly do believe the Twins are the best team in the division. Here is why: they have pitching depth, have a better lineup than last year and they are going to honor the Metrodome by having the last game played in it be a playoff (or World Series) game. With a group of young, talented pitchers, Joe Nathan closing and Morneau, Mauer, Crede, Cuddyer, Kubel as well as speed with Span, Gomez and Punto (sorry Delmon Young, you havent convinced me yet) the Twins should not struggle to score. If Mauer gets healthy I would be even more confident in this.
The Indians jump to 2nd because of a bad division and the fact they cant be as bad as they were. They have a lot of talent and I dont see Travis Hafner being completely useless again. The bottom three teams are all going to be pretty bad but I don't see the White Sox winning the division because they played above themselves for much of last year and I really am not convinced they will stay as good, in fact, with aging players like Jim Thome they should be worse.
The Tigers are overpaid, under talented and just sent their best bullpen arm (Zumaya) to the DL. They will struggle similar to last year but I bet Miguel Cabrera's huge ass will play a role, or roll away. And finally the Royals, nice ball park and there mascot shoots hotdogs out of a high powered air gun.
NL Central:
1. Chicago Cubs
2. Cincinnatti Reds
3. St. Louis Cardinals
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Houston Astros
6. Pittsburgh Pirates
I like the Cubs and I think they are very talented. Couple this, with a mediocre division and they emerge as NL Central champs. With a loaded rotation and plenty of good bats the Cubs will prevail over the young and talented Reds. This might change and unlike Juice I don't see the Reds in the playoffs but there is 162 games to decide that. The Reds, as I mentioned, are oozing with talent and have plenty of young bats and young arms to challenge the Cubbies for the pennant. After the Reds I like the Cardinals because Albert Pujols always produces and the Cards always find a way to win.
No one cares about this division after the top 3 but I put the Brewers fourth...mainly by default but they do still have some good bats in Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder can hit a ball really, really far. The Astros are from Houston and the Pirates are actually in negotiations with Major League Baseball to move to AAA so they can compete.
Coming tomorrow: AL and NL West predictions
Juice’s Predictions
AL Central:
1. Minnesota Twins
2. Cleveland Indians
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Kansas City Royals
5. Detroit Tigers
Everybody in the AL Central sucks. Everyone. The Twins have the best rotation, and arguably the worst bullpen. Every lineup has a few decent hitters, and a few questionable hitters. Honestly, even the Royals have a fighting chance in this division. Not a good chance, mind you, but a chance. You could essentially throw the names of all the teams in the Central in a hat, pull them out randomly, and come up with an acceptable prediction for how the division will shake out.
I picked the Twins for two reasons. First of all, they have the best rotation. By far. Second of all I am a homer. Although, I will say, it always makes me nervous picking the Twins because I feel it jinxes them. On the flip side if I don’t have confidence in my team why follow them? Plus, confidence is sexy. I am sexy. Therefore, I picked the Twins. Simple isn’t it?
Also, for sake of full disclosure, the White Sox are my least favorite franchise in all of sports. My bias against them is so strong, I wanted put them in last place. Unfortunately, they are probably slightly better than that. Luckily, though, Kenny Williams ridiculous wheeling and dealing continues to make no sense, and will eventually completely destroy the franchise. So that’s something to look forward to.
Finally, I would just like to apologize for putting the Tigers in last. The city of Detroit is depressed enough as it is. But, well, they're bad. Sorry. They just are.
NL Central:
1. Cincinnati Reds
2. Chicago Cubs
3. St. Louis Cardinals
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Houston Astros
6. Pittsburgh Pirates
I want to start by saying the Pirates are probably the most depressing franchise in all of sports. Let’s just say the last time the Pirates had a decent season Barry Bonds looked like this. Not only that, but there is really no end in sight for the Pirates futility. They have done a terrible job of finding, and developing, young talent, and do not have a single established star on their roster. Maybe it will turn around eventually for the Pirates, but not any time soon. At least you have the Steelers people of Pittsburgh. And the Penguins might be good too, but who would know that?
As for the rest of the division, the Astros and Brewers both have such terrible pitching staffs they have little chance of competing. The Cardinals will be solid, because they always are – thanks almost wholly to Albert Pujols – but there just isn’t enough there to make a run at the playoffs.
Also, as some of you may be aware, Milwaukee was “on fire” in 1982 (the season the Brewers made the World Series for the first time). It took 26 years for the Brewers to regain that flaming magic by returning to the playoffs. Well Milwaukee, I would just like to say get ready for another 26 years, because last year was a Sabathia driven aberration.
Now I know what you are thinking. “I don’t care about the Brewers, Astros, Cardinals or Pirates. You picked the Reds to win the division you crack head. Explain yourself.”
Well alright. I will. But only if you calm down.
Ready? Deep breath.
The Reds will have the best rotation in baseball this year. Yeah. That’s right. The best. They have six solid options at starting pitcher, two of whom are arguably the most talented young pitchers in all of baseball (Johnny Cueto and Edinson Volquez). Couple that with veterans Aaron Harang (who will have a bounce back year) and the always solid Bronson Arroyo, along with two viable fifth starter options (Homer Bailey and Micah Owings) and the Reds’ rotation will be scary good.
The only question surrounding Cincinnati will be their offense. There is, however, enough young talent there to carry the team to the playoffs. I love Brandon Phillips, Jay Bruce and Joey Votto; and the rest of the lineup is solid enough to compete. I expect big things from the Reds.
As for the Cubs, I just don’t see their starting rotation holding up all year. If they can eventually pull off the Jake Peavey trade rumored this offseason, things could change very quickly. Until then, it’s all about the Reds baby!
The Kicker's Predictions
AL Central:
1. Minnesota Twins
2. Cleveland Indians
3. Chicago White Sox
4. Detroit Tigers
5. Kansas City Royals
Alright, I know you're thinking this is a homer pick but it really isn't. I honestly do believe the Twins are the best team in the division. Here is why: they have pitching depth, have a better lineup than last year and they are going to honor the Metrodome by having the last game played in it be a playoff (or World Series) game. With a group of young, talented pitchers, Joe Nathan closing and Morneau, Mauer, Crede, Cuddyer, Kubel as well as speed with Span, Gomez and Punto (sorry Delmon Young, you havent convinced me yet) the Twins should not struggle to score. If Mauer gets healthy I would be even more confident in this.
The Indians jump to 2nd because of a bad division and the fact they cant be as bad as they were. They have a lot of talent and I dont see Travis Hafner being completely useless again. The bottom three teams are all going to be pretty bad but I don't see the White Sox winning the division because they played above themselves for much of last year and I really am not convinced they will stay as good, in fact, with aging players like Jim Thome they should be worse.
The Tigers are overpaid, under talented and just sent their best bullpen arm (Zumaya) to the DL. They will struggle similar to last year but I bet Miguel Cabrera's huge ass will play a role, or roll away. And finally the Royals, nice ball park and there mascot shoots hotdogs out of a high powered air gun.
NL Central:
1. Chicago Cubs
2. Cincinnatti Reds
3. St. Louis Cardinals
4. Milwaukee Brewers
5. Houston Astros
6. Pittsburgh Pirates
I like the Cubs and I think they are very talented. Couple this, with a mediocre division and they emerge as NL Central champs. With a loaded rotation and plenty of good bats the Cubs will prevail over the young and talented Reds. This might change and unlike Juice I don't see the Reds in the playoffs but there is 162 games to decide that. The Reds, as I mentioned, are oozing with talent and have plenty of young bats and young arms to challenge the Cubbies for the pennant. After the Reds I like the Cardinals because Albert Pujols always produces and the Cards always find a way to win.
No one cares about this division after the top 3 but I put the Brewers fourth...mainly by default but they do still have some good bats in Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder can hit a ball really, really far. The Astros are from Houston and the Pirates are actually in negotiations with Major League Baseball to move to AAA so they can compete.
Coming tomorrow: AL and NL West predictions
MLB Preview: East
Baseball preview week kicks off today with our AL and NL east predictions. We're running through our prediction for how the standings will shake out, with teams making the playoffs in bold.
To recap the weekly schedule looks like this:
Monday: AL and NL East
Tuesday: AL and NL Central
Wednesday: AL and NL West
Thursday: Playoffs and Awards
So let's go ahead and get this party started.
Juice's Picks
AL East:
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Tampa Bay Rays
3. Toronto Blue Jays
4. New York Yankees
5. Baltimore Orioles
Every fiber of my being wants to claim the Rays were a one year wonder. I mean they are the artists formerly known as the Devil Rays, after all. Problem is the Rays are actually good. Now with that said, they are going to slip slightly, because their rotation is a little worrisome. However they will still grab a wild card.
As you can see I have the Red Sox winning the division. Why? Brad Penny is their fifth starter. Brad Penny at his best is an ace. Now, I'm not saying Penny will be at his best, he is coming of an injury after all. Having him as your fifth starter, though, is pretty damn good.
I wanted to put the Yankees in fourth because, well, they just aren't a quality team. They are old, untalented, and morbidly obese. (Ok so only C.C. Sabathia is a big fat fatty. But he is so overweight that it makes the entire team seem fat. There has to be some sort of transitive property of obesity right?) With that said the Blue Jays have almost no pitc - no, you know what? Screw it. Yankees in fourth. Blue Jays in third. Done and done.
I'd say something about the Orioles, but why?
NL East:
1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. New York Mets
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Florida Marlins
5. Washington Nationals
This is one of those divisions where you could make a case for at least three teams, arguably four, to win the division. Basically everyone but the Nationals. Maybe they'll have a chance once they get this guy.
I have a beef with the Mets. They are chokeasaurus rexes. Yes, they have shored up their bullpen, but there are only three players on the team I trust: David Wright, Johan Santana, and Fernando Tatis (he hit two grand slams in one inning once, after all). Seriously though other than Santana, Wright, and Carlos Beltran, who on that team do you legitimately trust? Jose Reyes seems shady, and Carlos Delgado is like 900 years old. And other than Santana there isn't a single pitcher in that rotation I would be 100% confident sending to the mound.
As for the Phillies, they are basically returning their World Series Champion roster from last season. As long as Cole Hamels stays healthy, which is a pretty big if, they should be able to repeat as division champions. Plus, check out Cole Hamels’s wife. That has to count for something right?
The Marlins are my dark horse in the division, if a lot of things fall into place they could be very good. There are just too many ifs, however. I could very well see them jumping ahead of the Braves, but with Atlanta's solid pitching staff and veteran players (Chipper Jones, Brian McCann, Garrett Anderson) I don't see the Braves falling below third. I also don't see them climbing above third. Ah, the joys of mediocrity. Dare to dream, that's what I always say.
The Kicker's Picks
AL East:
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Tampa Bay Rays
3. New York Yankees
4. Baltimore Orioles
5. Toronto Blue Jays
I will be honest, I like Nick Markakis a lot. As Juice mentioned the Blue Jays have no pitching so I put them last, Orioles have Markakis and a cool stadium, plus I will probably be attending a game there this summer so that moves them to fourth (not to mention they aren't based in Canada). The Yankees just don't have a big enough payroll, expensive enough pitching, enough controversy, an old enough lineup or a first basemen with enough X's in there name to compete. I do like the Rays but they won't win the division because Boston is a better team and the "magic is gone". However, the default wild card pick is always the AL East runner up so they get and the Red Sox are loaded in their rotation, have a great closer and of course have some solid bats. They win the division AND have the best record in the American League.
NL East:
1. New York Mets
2. Philadelphia Phillies
3. Florida Marlins
4. Atlanta Braves
8. Washington Nationals
I like to start from the bottom up (thats what she said) so I will talk about the Nationals. Unless President Obama passes a law saying they have to make the playoffs, they wont. I put them in 8th place because I have confidence that at least 3 of the 4 AAA affiliates of the Mets, Phillies, Braves and Marlins are better than them.
I put the Mets ahead of the Phillies because I know it will irritate Juice (Juice interjection: This is completely false. I actually was going to put them in first but their starting rotation worries me. And now back to The Kicker.) and I think they are VERY due to not choke on a cock (a chicken, not an actual cock, sicko). I do like the Mets for some reason, and I think they are due to win, but the Phillies make the playoffs as a wild card and are very likely going to get further than the Mets. The Phillies return pretty much everything from the year before, besides the "magic" so they won't win it all, but they are really good.
The Braves will be fine but are nothing spectacular and I don't care enough to talk about them.
However, my sleeper pick is my Marlins. I really think their new stadium being passed will help them (even though everyone says that it's stupid they got a stadium with this economy) because I think having fans will be a big reason for the team to try hard and I would hook up with Hanley Ramirez. Obviously the stadium wont matter a lot now but I think over time it will be big for them to have a new field...that is until they are contracted before it even opens.
Coming Tomorrow: NL and AL Central picks.
To recap the weekly schedule looks like this:
Monday: AL and NL East
Tuesday: AL and NL Central
Wednesday: AL and NL West
Thursday: Playoffs and Awards
So let's go ahead and get this party started.
Juice's Picks
AL East:
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Tampa Bay Rays
3. Toronto Blue Jays
4. New York Yankees
5. Baltimore Orioles
Every fiber of my being wants to claim the Rays were a one year wonder. I mean they are the artists formerly known as the Devil Rays, after all. Problem is the Rays are actually good. Now with that said, they are going to slip slightly, because their rotation is a little worrisome. However they will still grab a wild card.
As you can see I have the Red Sox winning the division. Why? Brad Penny is their fifth starter. Brad Penny at his best is an ace. Now, I'm not saying Penny will be at his best, he is coming of an injury after all. Having him as your fifth starter, though, is pretty damn good.
I wanted to put the Yankees in fourth because, well, they just aren't a quality team. They are old, untalented, and morbidly obese. (Ok so only C.C. Sabathia is a big fat fatty. But he is so overweight that it makes the entire team seem fat. There has to be some sort of transitive property of obesity right?) With that said the Blue Jays have almost no pitc - no, you know what? Screw it. Yankees in fourth. Blue Jays in third. Done and done.
I'd say something about the Orioles, but why?
NL East:
1. Philadelphia Phillies
2. New York Mets
3. Atlanta Braves
4. Florida Marlins
5. Washington Nationals
This is one of those divisions where you could make a case for at least three teams, arguably four, to win the division. Basically everyone but the Nationals. Maybe they'll have a chance once they get this guy.
I have a beef with the Mets. They are chokeasaurus rexes. Yes, they have shored up their bullpen, but there are only three players on the team I trust: David Wright, Johan Santana, and Fernando Tatis (he hit two grand slams in one inning once, after all). Seriously though other than Santana, Wright, and Carlos Beltran, who on that team do you legitimately trust? Jose Reyes seems shady, and Carlos Delgado is like 900 years old. And other than Santana there isn't a single pitcher in that rotation I would be 100% confident sending to the mound.
As for the Phillies, they are basically returning their World Series Champion roster from last season. As long as Cole Hamels stays healthy, which is a pretty big if, they should be able to repeat as division champions. Plus, check out Cole Hamels’s wife. That has to count for something right?
The Marlins are my dark horse in the division, if a lot of things fall into place they could be very good. There are just too many ifs, however. I could very well see them jumping ahead of the Braves, but with Atlanta's solid pitching staff and veteran players (Chipper Jones, Brian McCann, Garrett Anderson) I don't see the Braves falling below third. I also don't see them climbing above third. Ah, the joys of mediocrity. Dare to dream, that's what I always say.
The Kicker's Picks
AL East:
1. Boston Red Sox
2. Tampa Bay Rays
3. New York Yankees
4. Baltimore Orioles
5. Toronto Blue Jays
I will be honest, I like Nick Markakis a lot. As Juice mentioned the Blue Jays have no pitching so I put them last, Orioles have Markakis and a cool stadium, plus I will probably be attending a game there this summer so that moves them to fourth (not to mention they aren't based in Canada). The Yankees just don't have a big enough payroll, expensive enough pitching, enough controversy, an old enough lineup or a first basemen with enough X's in there name to compete. I do like the Rays but they won't win the division because Boston is a better team and the "magic is gone". However, the default wild card pick is always the AL East runner up so they get and the Red Sox are loaded in their rotation, have a great closer and of course have some solid bats. They win the division AND have the best record in the American League.
NL East:
1. New York Mets
2. Philadelphia Phillies
3. Florida Marlins
4. Atlanta Braves
8. Washington Nationals
I like to start from the bottom up (thats what she said) so I will talk about the Nationals. Unless President Obama passes a law saying they have to make the playoffs, they wont. I put them in 8th place because I have confidence that at least 3 of the 4 AAA affiliates of the Mets, Phillies, Braves and Marlins are better than them.
I put the Mets ahead of the Phillies because I know it will irritate Juice (Juice interjection: This is completely false. I actually was going to put them in first but their starting rotation worries me. And now back to The Kicker.) and I think they are VERY due to not choke on a cock (a chicken, not an actual cock, sicko). I do like the Mets for some reason, and I think they are due to win, but the Phillies make the playoffs as a wild card and are very likely going to get further than the Mets. The Phillies return pretty much everything from the year before, besides the "magic" so they won't win it all, but they are really good.
The Braves will be fine but are nothing spectacular and I don't care enough to talk about them.
However, my sleeper pick is my Marlins. I really think their new stadium being passed will help them (even though everyone says that it's stupid they got a stadium with this economy) because I think having fans will be a big reason for the team to try hard and I would hook up with Hanley Ramirez. Obviously the stadium wont matter a lot now but I think over time it will be big for them to have a new field...that is until they are contracted before it even opens.
Coming Tomorrow: NL and AL Central picks.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Random Thoughts...
...So I found out this week that everyone's favorite Cooper, Winnie, (other option was Mark from "Hanging with Mr. Cooper") turned 34 and was recently married. Danielle McKellar, as you may remember, stared as the young Winnie in the greatest show of all-time, The Wonder Years. Here is the Winnie you might remember and now she is all grown up. The Harvard grad has written multiple books and appeared in several magazines...shown here, here and here. (The Kicker)
...Sorry, that last post was suppose to be about how great Wonder Years was and asking if anyone knows where to buy the DVD Series. Instead, it turned into a bunch of really hot pictures. (The Kicker)
...Let me be the first to say no apology necessary. Also, Winnie Cooper is vastly superior to Topanga Lawerence. (Juice)
...And, Wonder Years is vastly superior to Boy Meets World, for that matter. (Juice)
...There was an article the other day on the Star Tribune website for which the headline read "A Gay Old Day at the Movies" and the subtitle read "Hairy, Husky Dudes Bonding at the Multiplex..." I know exactly what you are thinking, and no the Star Tribune didn't feature a story on a gay porn theatre. It was about a group of gay guys called the "Movie Bears" who get together and review movies. I didn't read the whole story because I'm 90% sure, porn or no porn, it still ends in a circle jerk. (Juice)
...Would you rather watch the movie version of the popular children's book Where the Wild Things Are or spend an evening cutting yourself? I think the answer is fairly obvious. My apologies to those people who already cut themselves; although, technically, the decision should be even more obvious for you... (Juice)
...This random thought is dedicated to The Kicker's girlfriend Brittany: How awesome are footie pajamas? (Juice)
...How can anyone drink energy drinks? Not only are they absolutely terrible for you, they taste like urine in a can. How is that enjoyable in any way? (Juice)
...Amen Mr. Blyleven. (Juice)
...I want to punch Paula Abdul in the head. (Juice)
...Look what my school's hockey team did. I'm on the bandwagon baby! (Juice)
...Also, for that matter, I would like to extend one giant middle finger to ESPN, and all of the Duluth television stations. The ABC affiliate in Duluth can't pick up the game? Really? People just need to watch Just Like Heaven? Seriously that is what they are showing instead. Also, to ESPN how do you not at least have the game on ESPN360? And for that matter how do you put soccer on ESPN2 instead? I realize you are dealing with two unpopular events in hockey and soccer, but stick with the lesser of two evils. I once saw a poll that said 90% of people would rather hang themselves than watch soccer. True story. (Juice)
...The ten day forecast calls for 47 degrees and a 60% chance rain/snow for the Twins home opener April 6th. I get it. We live in Minnesota,. But can I get one precipitation free home opener? I'll accept the 47 degrees. All I ask is it doesn't rain or snow. I foresee this ending poorly once the Twins move outdoors... (Juice)
...I would like to note, however, that I hate retractable roofs and would prefer to sit outside on a 45 degree day than sit under one of those eyesores. Although, I would also suggest that the schedule makers don't start the Twins at home. I'll wait an extra week or two for the home opener if it means it will be slightly warmer and not snowing. (Juice)
...Finally don't forget that next week is baseball preview week here on Juice and The Kicker. I'm sure you are as excited as I am! (Juice)
...Sorry, that last post was suppose to be about how great Wonder Years was and asking if anyone knows where to buy the DVD Series. Instead, it turned into a bunch of really hot pictures. (The Kicker)
...Let me be the first to say no apology necessary. Also, Winnie Cooper is vastly superior to Topanga Lawerence. (Juice)
...And, Wonder Years is vastly superior to Boy Meets World, for that matter. (Juice)
...There was an article the other day on the Star Tribune website for which the headline read "A Gay Old Day at the Movies" and the subtitle read "Hairy, Husky Dudes Bonding at the Multiplex..." I know exactly what you are thinking, and no the Star Tribune didn't feature a story on a gay porn theatre. It was about a group of gay guys called the "Movie Bears" who get together and review movies. I didn't read the whole story because I'm 90% sure, porn or no porn, it still ends in a circle jerk. (Juice)
...Would you rather watch the movie version of the popular children's book Where the Wild Things Are or spend an evening cutting yourself? I think the answer is fairly obvious. My apologies to those people who already cut themselves; although, technically, the decision should be even more obvious for you... (Juice)
...This random thought is dedicated to The Kicker's girlfriend Brittany: How awesome are footie pajamas? (Juice)
...How can anyone drink energy drinks? Not only are they absolutely terrible for you, they taste like urine in a can. How is that enjoyable in any way? (Juice)
...Amen Mr. Blyleven. (Juice)
...I want to punch Paula Abdul in the head. (Juice)
...Look what my school's hockey team did. I'm on the bandwagon baby! (Juice)
...Also, for that matter, I would like to extend one giant middle finger to ESPN, and all of the Duluth television stations. The ABC affiliate in Duluth can't pick up the game? Really? People just need to watch Just Like Heaven? Seriously that is what they are showing instead. Also, to ESPN how do you not at least have the game on ESPN360? And for that matter how do you put soccer on ESPN2 instead? I realize you are dealing with two unpopular events in hockey and soccer, but stick with the lesser of two evils. I once saw a poll that said 90% of people would rather hang themselves than watch soccer. True story. (Juice)
...The ten day forecast calls for 47 degrees and a 60% chance rain/snow for the Twins home opener April 6th. I get it. We live in Minnesota,. But can I get one precipitation free home opener? I'll accept the 47 degrees. All I ask is it doesn't rain or snow. I foresee this ending poorly once the Twins move outdoors... (Juice)
...I would like to note, however, that I hate retractable roofs and would prefer to sit outside on a 45 degree day than sit under one of those eyesores. Although, I would also suggest that the schedule makers don't start the Twins at home. I'll wait an extra week or two for the home opener if it means it will be slightly warmer and not snowing. (Juice)
...Finally don't forget that next week is baseball preview week here on Juice and The Kicker. I'm sure you are as excited as I am! (Juice)
Friday, March 27, 2009
Weekly Top Ten: 90's One Hit Wonders
Who doesn't love a good one hit wonder?
For this list, I'm running down the "top" one hit wonders. I defined "top" based one or more of these three criteria:
1. Popularity
2. How ridiculous/annoying/catchy the song is
3. Songs I like (Most of the songs I like because they are so ridiculous and stupid it makes me laugh)
So then let’s get to the list.
For this list, I'm running down the "top" one hit wonders. I defined "top" based one or more of these three criteria:
1. Popularity
2. How ridiculous/annoying/catchy the song is
3. Songs I like (Most of the songs I like because they are so ridiculous and stupid it makes me laugh)
So then let’s get to the list.
10. "Graduation" - Vitamin C
Remember the television channel The Box? Yeah, I blame the box for a very large percentage of this list. In some cases I would say thank them, but this is definitely not one of those cases. Vitamin C wins the all time award for “obviousness.” This is the most obviously blatant way of saying “I’m going create a song that will be sung as the graduation song at high schools for the rest of time. I wonder what I should call it…oh! I know! Graduation!” By the way, if your class actually used this song at graduation, you are all going to end up homeless or in prison.
9. "Closing Time" – Semisonic
I actually like this song. With that said, I don’t think I’ve heard any other Semisonic songs so I’m sure they are all terrible, but I enjoy this one. I suppose if you are going to have a one hit wonder you might as well make it an actually decent song. Besides how can you not like a song about going to the bar, and trying to get in some girls pants? It’s like art imitating life imitating art. Or some bull shit like that.
8. "Peaches" - Presidents of the United States
Peaches come from a can
They were put there by a man
In a factory downtown.
Those lyrics say it all really. Don’t they?
7. "I'm Too Sexy" - Right Said Fred
I dare say this is the most preposterous song on this list. If you have never seen the video, go watch it now. There is a whole lot of shirtless man, and homoeroticism going on, but it is totally worth it. Fantastically hilarious.
6. "Cotton Eyed Joe" – Rednex
Did you know the Rednex’s are a Swedish Techno-Country band? Because they are. Obviously everybody knows this song is Techno-Country song (who knew blending two terrible things together would make something awesome?) but they are also Swedish. This takes this song to a whole other level. I always assumed the song was sung by a crazy old man with a scraggly beard sitting on a porch drinking moonshine, and ranting about some guy named Joe. A Swedish Techno band takes this song to a whole other level. Maybe they’ll make a Mamma Mia-esque musical out of it like they did for ABBA. The only difference being that I would actually watch the Cotton Eyed Joe musical.
5. "We Like to Party" – Vengaboys
How can you not love the Vengaboys?
Remember the television channel The Box? Yeah, I blame the box for a very large percentage of this list. In some cases I would say thank them, but this is definitely not one of those cases. Vitamin C wins the all time award for “obviousness.” This is the most obviously blatant way of saying “I’m going create a song that will be sung as the graduation song at high schools for the rest of time. I wonder what I should call it…oh! I know! Graduation!” By the way, if your class actually used this song at graduation, you are all going to end up homeless or in prison.
9. "Closing Time" – Semisonic
I actually like this song. With that said, I don’t think I’ve heard any other Semisonic songs so I’m sure they are all terrible, but I enjoy this one. I suppose if you are going to have a one hit wonder you might as well make it an actually decent song. Besides how can you not like a song about going to the bar, and trying to get in some girls pants? It’s like art imitating life imitating art. Or some bull shit like that.
8. "Peaches" - Presidents of the United States
Peaches come from a can
They were put there by a man
In a factory downtown.
Those lyrics say it all really. Don’t they?
7. "I'm Too Sexy" - Right Said Fred
I dare say this is the most preposterous song on this list. If you have never seen the video, go watch it now. There is a whole lot of shirtless man, and homoeroticism going on, but it is totally worth it. Fantastically hilarious.
6. "Cotton Eyed Joe" – Rednex
Did you know the Rednex’s are a Swedish Techno-Country band? Because they are. Obviously everybody knows this song is Techno-Country song (who knew blending two terrible things together would make something awesome?) but they are also Swedish. This takes this song to a whole other level. I always assumed the song was sung by a crazy old man with a scraggly beard sitting on a porch drinking moonshine, and ranting about some guy named Joe. A Swedish Techno band takes this song to a whole other level. Maybe they’ll make a Mamma Mia-esque musical out of it like they did for ABBA. The only difference being that I would actually watch the Cotton Eyed Joe musical.
5. "We Like to Party" – Vengaboys
How can you not love the Vengaboys?
"The Venga bus is coming
And everybody’s jumping
New York to San Fransisco
An intercity disco
The wheels of steel are turning
And traffic lights are burning
So if you like to party
Get on and move your body"
Done and done.
Done and done.
4. "Tubthumping" - Chumbawamba
"I get knocked down but I get up again
You’re never gonna keep me down
He takes a whiskey drink
He takes a vodka drink
He takes a lager drink
He takes a cider drink"
That’s it. Those are all the lyrics to this song. Well that and “Danny Boy, Danny Boy,” and so on and so forth. Now I’m not saying having so few lyrics is a bad thing. In fact, it is probably a good thing. I don’t think I’m going out on a limb by saying Chumbawamba aren’t exactly the greatest lyricists in the world. Plus, when you are singing a song about getting wasted, it is probably better to keep things simple.
3. Jock Jams -Various Artists
Whoever decided to create Jock Jams was an evil genius. Let’s take every catchy, ridiculous, often obnoxious song possible and cram them into one CD. Wait one CD isn’t enough, let’s go ahead and make five volumes. These CD’s basically ruined sporting event music. Well, these and the Baja Men.
"I get knocked down but I get up again
You’re never gonna keep me down
He takes a whiskey drink
He takes a vodka drink
He takes a lager drink
He takes a cider drink"
That’s it. Those are all the lyrics to this song. Well that and “Danny Boy, Danny Boy,” and so on and so forth. Now I’m not saying having so few lyrics is a bad thing. In fact, it is probably a good thing. I don’t think I’m going out on a limb by saying Chumbawamba aren’t exactly the greatest lyricists in the world. Plus, when you are singing a song about getting wasted, it is probably better to keep things simple.
3. Jock Jams -Various Artists
Whoever decided to create Jock Jams was an evil genius. Let’s take every catchy, ridiculous, often obnoxious song possible and cram them into one CD. Wait one CD isn’t enough, let’s go ahead and make five volumes. These CD’s basically ruined sporting event music. Well, these and the Baja Men.
2. "Mambo #5" - Lou Bega
RIP Lou Bega. You will be missed.
What? Lou Bega is still a live?
RIP Lou Bega. You will be missed.
What? Lou Bega is still a live?
Oh. My bad.
1. "Summer Girls" – LFO
Remember the boy band craze? There was frosted hair and sweaters everywhere. Personally, I was always an *NSYNC man myself. As far as singles go, though, you just cannot beat “Summer Girls” by LFO. Check out the lyrics. They speak for themselves. Trying to describe the magnitude of LFO’s genius is impossible.
Honorable Mention:
“Bittersweet Symphony” - The Verve
“The Freshman” - Verve Pipe
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” - Deep Blue Something
“I touch Myself” - Divinyls
“Whoot There it Is” - 95 South
1. "Summer Girls" – LFO
Remember the boy band craze? There was frosted hair and sweaters everywhere. Personally, I was always an *NSYNC man myself. As far as singles go, though, you just cannot beat “Summer Girls” by LFO. Check out the lyrics. They speak for themselves. Trying to describe the magnitude of LFO’s genius is impossible.
Honorable Mention:
“Bittersweet Symphony” - The Verve
“The Freshman” - Verve Pipe
“Breakfast at Tiffany’s” - Deep Blue Something
“I touch Myself” - Divinyls
“Whoot There it Is” - 95 South
-Juice
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight Picks
Well we have made it to the Sweet Sixteen. Many people's brackets are busted, and there aren't any interesting underdogs left anymore (Arizona is a 12 seed but they aren't interesting) so the tourney is fizzling. The tournament always gets less interesting after the first two rounds, but whatever.
On to our Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight picks. Also, we are ditching the whole upset in bold thing, since there really aren't any potential shocking upsets. Other than Arizona, but screw them.
Juice Says
Sweet Sixteen
Midwest:
Louisville beats Arizona
Kansas beats Michigan St
West:
UConn beats Purdue
Memphis beats Missouri
East:
Pittsburgh beats Xavier
Villanova beats Duke
South:
North Carolina beats Gonzaga
Syracuse beats Oklahoma
Elite Eight
Midwest:
Louisville beats Kansas
West: Memphis beats UConn
East:
Pittsburgh beats Villanova
South:
Syracuse beats North Carolina
This has been a relatively boring tournament so far. There were a few exciting games, and a couple of upsets (like my boys from Cleveland State) but for the most part the bracket has gone with the chalk (which, might I add, is the single dumbest expression in the history of the English language). Of course I can’t really say much, my finals teams are Pittsburgh and Louisville and that is quite chalkish as well.
I guess my most “out there” pick in the Final Four would be Syracuse (who I did have in my original bracket) but I think even they have a pretty big bandwagon at this point. Plus picking a three seed isn’t all that crazy.
Unless a team like George Mason makes a run, which is a rarity, the later rounds of the tournament are just like any other playoff where the best teams play and the unexpected rarely happens. Basically a whole lot of one and two seeds.
Of the teams left, a person could make a fairly convincing case for why any one of them could win. This is what makes college basketball more interesting than the NBA (Can’t the Lakers and Cavs just play the finals now? Do we really need two more months of NBA games to decide the inevitable?). With that said, however, there isn’t a team left in the NCAA tourney that is exciting, or an interesting Cinderella. (Note: Arizona has a few NBA caliber players and underachieved during the season, they aren’t a real Cinderella.)
At this point I am only interested in the outcome because it is a national championship. I’m not actually interested in the games. Basically the “madness” of March Madness is over.
Whatever happens though, there are two undeniable truths to be taken from this tourney: Oklahoma is an overrated one man team, and Eric Devendorf is the biggest tool on the planet.
The Kicker Says
Sweet Sixteen
Midwest:
Louisville beats Arizona
Kansas beats Michigan State
West:
UConn beats Purdue
Memphis beats Missouri
East:
Xavier beats Pittsburgh
Villanova beats Duke
South:
UNC beats Gonzaga
Oklahoma beats Syracuse
Elite Eight (Didn't this use to be called the Great Eight?)
Midwest:
Louisville beats Kansas
West:
Memphis beats UConn
East:
Villanova beats Xavier
South:
Oklahoma beats UNC
Alright, this tournament has been a letdown, I will be the first to admit that. But, it still has had its moments, whether or not there were upsets. Ben Woodside (Minnesota born and raised) from North Dakota State dropped 37 on Sherron Collins and Kansas, there have been some very hot cheerleaders and I have a growing hatred for nearly every basketball announcer (Kevin Harlan not included).
Now for my picks, I am not thrilled with my picks so far, but my Final Four is still intact. I didn't pick the "favorites" bur everyone is pretty much the same at this point. I like Memphis because of Tyreke Evans, there athleticism and there coach. They might not be a championship caliber team but I will ride those Tigers til they lose.
From the Midwest I am picking Louisville because of Samardo Samuels and Rick Pitino. He is underrated and Pitino is a winner. However, they lost to my Gophers which shows me they are definitely vulnerable. But working in their favor is Arizona who is not that good, Michigan St who is too slow to beat them and Kansas who relies to heavily on Cole Aldrich (Minnesota boy) and Sherron Collins.
I like Villanova because they are good and playing well. Pitt hasn't beat anyone better than a 6 seed in there last four tournament appearances and they wont this year. Finally, my "upset" is Blake Griffin making the Final Four. He is a one man team and I hate him but he is terrific. He will beats Jonny Flynn and Syracuse and then out play Tyler Hansboro and an injured Ty Lawson (two games in 3 days will make Lawson ineffective for the 2nd half against Oklahoma). So yes, I am still going to watch the games and probably end up caring more than I think but as it stands now, I don't really give a damn. I hope for good games, to win a few of my bracket pools and maybe just maybe find some more hot cheerleaders (I'm looking at you Louisville, Memphis and Arizona)
On to our Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight picks. Also, we are ditching the whole upset in bold thing, since there really aren't any potential shocking upsets. Other than Arizona, but screw them.
Juice Says
Sweet Sixteen
Midwest:
Louisville beats Arizona
Kansas beats Michigan St
West:
UConn beats Purdue
Memphis beats Missouri
East:
Pittsburgh beats Xavier
Villanova beats Duke
South:
North Carolina beats Gonzaga
Syracuse beats Oklahoma
Elite Eight
Midwest:
Louisville beats Kansas
West: Memphis beats UConn
East:
Pittsburgh beats Villanova
South:
Syracuse beats North Carolina
This has been a relatively boring tournament so far. There were a few exciting games, and a couple of upsets (like my boys from Cleveland State) but for the most part the bracket has gone with the chalk (which, might I add, is the single dumbest expression in the history of the English language). Of course I can’t really say much, my finals teams are Pittsburgh and Louisville and that is quite chalkish as well.
I guess my most “out there” pick in the Final Four would be Syracuse (who I did have in my original bracket) but I think even they have a pretty big bandwagon at this point. Plus picking a three seed isn’t all that crazy.
Unless a team like George Mason makes a run, which is a rarity, the later rounds of the tournament are just like any other playoff where the best teams play and the unexpected rarely happens. Basically a whole lot of one and two seeds.
Of the teams left, a person could make a fairly convincing case for why any one of them could win. This is what makes college basketball more interesting than the NBA (Can’t the Lakers and Cavs just play the finals now? Do we really need two more months of NBA games to decide the inevitable?). With that said, however, there isn’t a team left in the NCAA tourney that is exciting, or an interesting Cinderella. (Note: Arizona has a few NBA caliber players and underachieved during the season, they aren’t a real Cinderella.)
At this point I am only interested in the outcome because it is a national championship. I’m not actually interested in the games. Basically the “madness” of March Madness is over.
Whatever happens though, there are two undeniable truths to be taken from this tourney: Oklahoma is an overrated one man team, and Eric Devendorf is the biggest tool on the planet.
The Kicker Says
Sweet Sixteen
Midwest:
Louisville beats Arizona
Kansas beats Michigan State
West:
UConn beats Purdue
Memphis beats Missouri
East:
Xavier beats Pittsburgh
Villanova beats Duke
South:
UNC beats Gonzaga
Oklahoma beats Syracuse
Elite Eight (Didn't this use to be called the Great Eight?)
Midwest:
Louisville beats Kansas
West:
Memphis beats UConn
East:
Villanova beats Xavier
South:
Oklahoma beats UNC
Alright, this tournament has been a letdown, I will be the first to admit that. But, it still has had its moments, whether or not there were upsets. Ben Woodside (Minnesota born and raised) from North Dakota State dropped 37 on Sherron Collins and Kansas, there have been some very hot cheerleaders and I have a growing hatred for nearly every basketball announcer (Kevin Harlan not included).
Now for my picks, I am not thrilled with my picks so far, but my Final Four is still intact. I didn't pick the "favorites" bur everyone is pretty much the same at this point. I like Memphis because of Tyreke Evans, there athleticism and there coach. They might not be a championship caliber team but I will ride those Tigers til they lose.
From the Midwest I am picking Louisville because of Samardo Samuels and Rick Pitino. He is underrated and Pitino is a winner. However, they lost to my Gophers which shows me they are definitely vulnerable. But working in their favor is Arizona who is not that good, Michigan St who is too slow to beat them and Kansas who relies to heavily on Cole Aldrich (Minnesota boy) and Sherron Collins.
I like Villanova because they are good and playing well. Pitt hasn't beat anyone better than a 6 seed in there last four tournament appearances and they wont this year. Finally, my "upset" is Blake Griffin making the Final Four. He is a one man team and I hate him but he is terrific. He will beats Jonny Flynn and Syracuse and then out play Tyler Hansboro and an injured Ty Lawson (two games in 3 days will make Lawson ineffective for the 2nd half against Oklahoma). So yes, I am still going to watch the games and probably end up caring more than I think but as it stands now, I don't really give a damn. I hope for good games, to win a few of my bracket pools and maybe just maybe find some more hot cheerleaders (I'm looking at you Louisville, Memphis and Arizona)
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