The NBA regular season is right around the corner and I cannot wait! I have said on here a number of times that the NBA is back. There are so many story lines to follow this season and so much pairity in the NBA I think this is going to be a fun year. With no team in Cincinnati I have the luxury of being a casual NBA fan. I can't say that I have any one team that I call my favorite. Here are a few that I will be following this season:
-Indiana Pacers
The Pacers are about as close as a home team that we have in Cincinnati. They have one of the best players in the league that no one knows about in Danny Granger. Granger has that game chaning ability and is just as electic as the top stars in the league. The problem is there is not much around him.
- Oklahoma City Thunder Kevin Durant is my favorite NBA player to watch. Everything he does is incredibly smooth. He is humble, a team player, and very very good. The Thunder have a good cast of charachters that no one has ever heard of Westbrook, Sefolosha, and Krstic are all good role players on the team. I would expect the Thunder to hang around all season and have a better showing in the NBA playoffs.
- Miami Heat
Who isn't excited about watching the Miami Heat! With the much publicized addition of LeBron James and Chris Bosh, the Wade, Bosh, James combo is without a doubt the most talented group in the NBA. We have never seen a team assembled in my lifetime with such dominating players. The problem in Miami anything less than a Championship would be considered a failure. That is a lot of pressure to get through a pretty balanced league.
- Boston Celtics I typically hate all things Boston but for some reason I have always been a little bit of a Celtics fan. Since they added thier big three (Allen, Garnett, and Pierce) I have followed their team very closely. They have made some interesting off-season additions in Jermaine O'Neil and Shaquille O'Neal if they can get some good split time from the two and take some pressure off of Kendrick Perkins this team could really get back to the NBA Finals.
-Los Angeles Clippers I can remember watching the Clippers about 4 or 5 years ago (I didn't look it up) when they made the playoffs for the first time in a long time. They were scrappy, dynamic, and played really hard. I fell in love with the Clippers then. Although most if not all of those players are gone they are still an interesting team. The get Blake Griffin this season who missed all of last year with injury, they have Eric Gordon who is coming into his own and Baron Davis who stil has some gas in the tank. I think the Clippers will make the playoffs this year and I am looking forward to watching.
In addition to following these teams I am looking forward to watching John Wall (Wizards) DeMarcus Cousins (Sacramento Kings) and Patrick Patterson (Houston Rockets).
Friday, October 22, 2010
Back at it....
I think I have finally come out of my depression regarding the Reds. The emotional swing of just one week was pretty intense! I have to confess I didn't even watch the game on Sunday night. I was following via cell phone while on a business trip in San Francisco but after games 1 and 2 I knew a series loss was inevitable. As much as we wanted to rip on Colin Cowherd the numbers just didn't lie about this team. They were a good team who made a living beating up on bad teams. The Reds finished with losing records against teams in the upper echelon of the league. But I think the future is bright in Cincinnati. The nucleus of this team should be back next year with the addition of some good young talent.
Monday, October 18, 2010
Northern Kentucky University 2010-11 Men’s Basketball Preview
After a disappointing 17-13 season (8-10 in conference play), the NKU Norse men's basketball team looks to return to the top of the GLVC with a entirely re-shaped roster of D-1 transfers and several key returning players.
Although the Norse will be without David Palmer and Scott Bibbins (graduation), Dustin Maguire (medical setback - quit team) and Dennis Gagai (torn mcl - out majority of the season), the team has much to look forward to with four transfers, three from D-1 programs, including:
Josh Tabb (6-4, Sr.) - Tabb comes from the University of Tennessee. He started 11 games last years for the Volunteers and saw action in 33 games where he primarily served as the sixth man. He averaged just over three points and nearly two assists per contest. Volunteer coach, Bruce Pearl, suspended Tabb last year and gave no reason for Tabb’s suspension, other than saying he “hadn’t taken care of his business like we expect him to.’’ It was reported that Tabb withdrew from Tennessee to be with his ailing mother.
Malcolm Eleby (6-3, Sr.) - Eleby comes to the Norse from the Bonnies of St. Bonaventure, an A-10 powerhouse…Eleby started 57 games in three season for the Bonnies racking up nearly 6 points, 3 assists and 3 rebounds per contest.
James Cotton (6-8, So.) - Cotton is a transfer from Maryland-Eastern Shore. He played in 19 games last season as a freshman, starting three times. He averaged 3 points and 3 rebounds per game last year.
Bobby Shannon (6-5, Jr.) - Shannon is a JUCO transfer who led the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference in scoring with an average of 23 points per game for Southern Maryland. In high school, Shannon led all Washington, D.C. area players in scoring during his senior year at Potomac High School. He averaged 27 points and led his team to a share of the Prince George's 3A/2A league title and the Maryland 2A South Region postseason championship. He originally signed with Marshall out of high school and was recruited by some big schools, including: Arkansas, Georgetown, Maryland, Villanova, Memphis, UTEP, George Washington and Iowa State.
The Norse also return:
Chris Knight, a 6-7 senior who averaged 9 points and 5 rebounds per game last season.
Corey Sorrell, a 6-5 sophomore who averaged 8 points and 3 rebounds per game.
Ethan Faulkner, a 6-1 sophomore who averaged 4 points and 3 assists last season.
Tony Rack, a 6-0 junior who averaged 4 points and shot 52% from 3-point range last year.
Although the team may be small, I feel they could put together a good showing in the GLVC this year. Team chemistry could be a problem early on as it may take some time for players to get used to all the new transfers and the changing in the offensive scheme due to the graduation of Palmer (averaged 17 points per game last season as the teams go-to guy in the post).
It's always tough to project a roster with so many new players, however, this is how I think things will pan out:
Starting Lineup
F - Chris Knight
F - Bobby Shannon
G/F - Corey Sorrell
G - Josh Tabb
G - Malcolm Eleby
Key Reserves
F - James Cotton
G - Ethan Faulkner
G - Tony Rack
F - Eric Stenger
Although the Norse will be without David Palmer and Scott Bibbins (graduation), Dustin Maguire (medical setback - quit team) and Dennis Gagai (torn mcl - out majority of the season), the team has much to look forward to with four transfers, three from D-1 programs, including:
Josh Tabb (6-4, Sr.) - Tabb comes from the University of Tennessee. He started 11 games last years for the Volunteers and saw action in 33 games where he primarily served as the sixth man. He averaged just over three points and nearly two assists per contest. Volunteer coach, Bruce Pearl, suspended Tabb last year and gave no reason for Tabb’s suspension, other than saying he “hadn’t taken care of his business like we expect him to.’’ It was reported that Tabb withdrew from Tennessee to be with his ailing mother.
Malcolm Eleby (6-3, Sr.) - Eleby comes to the Norse from the Bonnies of St. Bonaventure, an A-10 powerhouse…Eleby started 57 games in three season for the Bonnies racking up nearly 6 points, 3 assists and 3 rebounds per contest.
James Cotton (6-8, So.) - Cotton is a transfer from Maryland-Eastern Shore. He played in 19 games last season as a freshman, starting three times. He averaged 3 points and 3 rebounds per game last year.
Bobby Shannon (6-5, Jr.) - Shannon is a JUCO transfer who led the Maryland Junior College Athletic Conference in scoring with an average of 23 points per game for Southern Maryland. In high school, Shannon led all Washington, D.C. area players in scoring during his senior year at Potomac High School. He averaged 27 points and led his team to a share of the Prince George's 3A/2A league title and the Maryland 2A South Region postseason championship. He originally signed with Marshall out of high school and was recruited by some big schools, including: Arkansas, Georgetown, Maryland, Villanova, Memphis, UTEP, George Washington and Iowa State.
The Norse also return:
Chris Knight, a 6-7 senior who averaged 9 points and 5 rebounds per game last season.
Corey Sorrell, a 6-5 sophomore who averaged 8 points and 3 rebounds per game.
Ethan Faulkner, a 6-1 sophomore who averaged 4 points and 3 assists last season.
Tony Rack, a 6-0 junior who averaged 4 points and shot 52% from 3-point range last year.
Although the team may be small, I feel they could put together a good showing in the GLVC this year. Team chemistry could be a problem early on as it may take some time for players to get used to all the new transfers and the changing in the offensive scheme due to the graduation of Palmer (averaged 17 points per game last season as the teams go-to guy in the post).
It's always tough to project a roster with so many new players, however, this is how I think things will pan out:
Starting Lineup
F - Chris Knight
F - Bobby Shannon
G/F - Corey Sorrell
G - Josh Tabb
G - Malcolm Eleby
Key Reserves
F - James Cotton
G - Ethan Faulkner
G - Tony Rack
F - Eric Stenger
Thursday, October 7, 2010
It's only one game
So, it turns out that it really doesn't matter who pitched for us in game one last night. No one, not Arroyo, Wood, Cueto or Bob Gibson was going to beat Roy Halladay last night. It was just an amazing playoff performance and something that we may never see again. Halladay threw 29 balls all night long. He got up to three balls in the count just three times. He walked Jay Bruce on a close called ball 4, the only at bat that kept Halladay from perfection. The Reds obviously helped Halladay along the way. I was screaming at Brandon Phillips for swinging at the first pitch in the ball game...but it felt like they never did that again. Mike and Mike were talking about it this morning. Halladay threw first pitch strikes to 25 of the 28 batters he faced, 16 of those strikes were looking. The last three batters in the 9th inning, Hernandez, Cairo and Phillips all looked at first pitch strikes last night. Before the game, Dusty sat with Marty Brennaman and was adamant that the Reds had to be agressive and get after Halladay early. It was important that the Reds not fall behind. Well, that didn't work out last night.
Luckily we do live to play another day. The Reds will face former Reds killer Roy Oswalt on Friday night. We all know the history of Roy Oswalt against the Reds but this year has been a different story. In two starts this year Oswalt is 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA giving up 17 hits and 9 runs in 12 innings. Of course, both of those starts were in an Astros uniform. Oswalt has been a different pitcher since the trade to the Phillies. In a Phillies uniform Oswalt is 7-1 with a 1.74 ERA. Dare I say, nearly unhittable, because he's only given up 53 hits in 82 2/3 innings pitched. I'm sure the Philly fans, and maybe the Phillies themselves are expecting no competition from the Reds on Friday night. I can only hope the Reds can prove them wrong!
Luckily we do live to play another day. The Reds will face former Reds killer Roy Oswalt on Friday night. We all know the history of Roy Oswalt against the Reds but this year has been a different story. In two starts this year Oswalt is 0-2 with a 6.75 ERA giving up 17 hits and 9 runs in 12 innings. Of course, both of those starts were in an Astros uniform. Oswalt has been a different pitcher since the trade to the Phillies. In a Phillies uniform Oswalt is 7-1 with a 1.74 ERA. Dare I say, nearly unhittable, because he's only given up 53 hits in 82 2/3 innings pitched. I'm sure the Philly fans, and maybe the Phillies themselves are expecting no competition from the Reds on Friday night. I can only hope the Reds can prove them wrong!
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
NLDS Game 1 Lineups
The lineups are out, thanks to Lance McCallister's Twitter page!
Cincinnati Reds
2B-Brandon Phillips
SS-Orlando Cabrera
1B-Joey Votto
3B-Scott Rolen
LF-Jonny Gomes
RF-Jay Bruce
CF-Drew Stubbs
C-Ramon Hernandez
P-Edinson Volquez
Philadelphia Phillies
SS-Jimmy Rollins
CF-Shane Victorino
2B-Chase Utley
1B-Ryan Howard
RF-Jayson Werth
LF-Raul Ibanez
C-Carlos Ruiz
3B-Wilson Valdez
P-Roy Halladay
Cincinnati Reds
2B-Brandon Phillips
SS-Orlando Cabrera
1B-Joey Votto
3B-Scott Rolen
LF-Jonny Gomes
RF-Jay Bruce
CF-Drew Stubbs
C-Ramon Hernandez
P-Edinson Volquez
Philadelphia Phillies
SS-Jimmy Rollins
CF-Shane Victorino
2B-Chase Utley
1B-Ryan Howard
RF-Jayson Werth
LF-Raul Ibanez
C-Carlos Ruiz
3B-Wilson Valdez
P-Roy Halladay
Reds Playoff Roster Set
There are two veteran players who did not make the Reds postseason roster, Aaron Harang and Jim Edmonds. I think everyone knew that Harang would not make the cut, which is really a shame because he has been such a pillar for this Reds rotation the last 5 years. But his stuff is just not there and there are younger arms who have surpassed him. Edmonds was the wild card, he has been dealing with injury all season and his strained oblique made him too risky to add him to the lineup.
Pitchers
RHP- Edinson Volquez
RHP- Bronson Arroyo
RHP- Johnny Cueto
RHP- Francisco Cordero
LHP- Arthur Rhodes
RHP- Nick Masset
LHP- Aroldis Chapman
RHP- Logan Ondrusek
LHP- Bill Bray
RHP- Homer Bailey
LHP- Travis Wood
Position Players
1B- Joey Votto
2B- Brandon Phillips
SS- Orlando Cabrera
3B- Scott Rolen
RF- Jay Bruce
CF- Drew Stubbs
LF- Jonny Gomes
C- Ramon Hernandez
C- Ryan Hanigan
OF- Chris Heisey
OF- Laynce Nix
IF- Miguel Cairo
IF- Paul Janish
IF- Jaun Francisco
Not on the Roster
C- Corky Miller
MI- Chris Valaika
UT- Jim Edmonds
1B- Yonder Alonso
UT- Willie Bloomquist
P- Mike Leake
P- Aaron Harang
P- Micah Owings
P- Sam LeCure
P- Jared Burton
P- Carlos Fisher
P- Matt Maloney
P- Jordan Smith
Pitchers
RHP- Edinson Volquez
RHP- Bronson Arroyo
RHP- Johnny Cueto
RHP- Francisco Cordero
LHP- Arthur Rhodes
RHP- Nick Masset
LHP- Aroldis Chapman
RHP- Logan Ondrusek
LHP- Bill Bray
RHP- Homer Bailey
LHP- Travis Wood
Position Players
1B- Joey Votto
2B- Brandon Phillips
SS- Orlando Cabrera
3B- Scott Rolen
RF- Jay Bruce
CF- Drew Stubbs
LF- Jonny Gomes
C- Ramon Hernandez
C- Ryan Hanigan
OF- Chris Heisey
OF- Laynce Nix
IF- Miguel Cairo
IF- Paul Janish
IF- Jaun Francisco
Not on the Roster
C- Corky Miller
MI- Chris Valaika
UT- Jim Edmonds
1B- Yonder Alonso
UT- Willie Bloomquist
P- Mike Leake
P- Aaron Harang
P- Micah Owings
P- Sam LeCure
P- Jared Burton
P- Carlos Fisher
P- Matt Maloney
P- Jordan Smith
Tuesday, October 5, 2010
Checking up on our Predictions
http://nkysportsworld.blogspot.com/2010/03/2010-mlb-predictions.html
Only three NKYSportsWorlders put their MLB Predictions up this season. And the picks weren't that far off. All three had Philly winning the East, not a real shocker. Only one person picked the Reds to win the Central (this guy) and Redleg2420 had them winning the Wild Card. No one picked the Rays to make the playoffs, and surprisingly no one took the Rangers!
Redleg2420- 5 correct picks
SHU- 4 correct picks
Adam- 4 however DQ'd because I picked two Wild Cards! What an idiot!
Only three NKYSportsWorlders put their MLB Predictions up this season. And the picks weren't that far off. All three had Philly winning the East, not a real shocker. Only one person picked the Reds to win the Central (this guy) and Redleg2420 had them winning the Wild Card. No one picked the Rays to make the playoffs, and surprisingly no one took the Rangers!
Redleg2420- 5 correct picks
SHU- 4 correct picks
Adam- 4 however DQ'd because I picked two Wild Cards! What an idiot!
Reds Playoff Schedule
Wednesday, 5:07 p.m. in Philadelphia (TBS)
Friday, 6:07 p.m. in Philadelphia (TBS)
Sunday, 7:07 p.m. (TNT) or 8:07 p.m. (TBS) in Cincinnati . Reds play at 8:07 if Yankees-Twins series ends in three games.
Monday, 5:07 p.m. if necessary (TBS) in Cincinnati. Moves to 7:37 if Giants-Braves series ends in three games.
Wednesday, 6:07 p.m. if necessary, TBS in Philadelphia. Moves to 8:07 if Giants-Braves series ends in four games.
Friday, 6:07 p.m. in Philadelphia (TBS)
Sunday, 7:07 p.m. (TNT) or 8:07 p.m. (TBS) in Cincinnati . Reds play at 8:07 if Yankees-Twins series ends in three games.
Monday, 5:07 p.m. if necessary (TBS) in Cincinnati. Moves to 7:37 if Giants-Braves series ends in three games.
Wednesday, 6:07 p.m. if necessary, TBS in Philadelphia. Moves to 8:07 if Giants-Braves series ends in four games.
Looking at the Lineups
One of the great things about Major League Baseball are the statistics. I have always been a statistics nerd and like to look at the numbers. The numbers never lie. Here is a position by position comparison of the starters for the Philadelphia Phillies and the Cincinnati Reds.
Catcher
CIN- Ramon Hernandez .297 /7 HR/ 48 RBI/.792 OPS
PHI- Carlos Ruiz .302 /8 HR/ 53 RBI/.847 OPS
First Base
CIN- Joey Votto .324/ 37 HR/ 113 RBI/ 1.024 OPS
PHI- Ryan Howard .276/ 31 HR/ 108 RBI/ .859 OPS
Second Base
CIN- Brandon Phillips .275/ 18 HR/ 59 RBI/ .762 OPS
PHI- Chase Utley .275/ 16 HR/ 65 RBI/ .832 OPS
Shortstop
CIN- Orlando Cabrera .263/ 4 HR/ 42 RBI/ .657 OPS
PHI- Jimmy Rollins .243/ 8 HR/ 41 RBI/ .694 OPS
Third Base
CIN- Scott Rolen .285/ 20 HR/ 83 RBI/ .854 OPS
PHI- Placido Polanco .298/ 6 HR/ 52 RBI/ .726 OPS
Right Field
CIN- Jay Bruce .281/ 25 HR/ 70 RBI/ .846 OPS
PHI- Jayson Werth .296/ 27 HR/ 85 RBI/ .921 OPS
Center Field
CIN- Drew Stubbs .255/ 22 HR/ 77 RBI/ .773 OPS
PHI- Shane Victorino .259/ 18 HR/ 69 RBI/ .756 OPS
Left Field
CIN- Jonny Gomes .266/ 18 HR/ 86 RBI/ .758 OPS
PHI- Raul Ibanez .275/ 16 HR/ 83 RBI/ .793 OPS
There were a lot of things that jumped out at me in looking at the numbers. Comparing the two teams they are pretty close to each other by way of offensive production. The one that really shocked me was the comparison of Drew Stubbs and Shane Victorino. Before actually looking at the numbers I had considered this a weakness for the Reds and advantage for Philadelphia but the numbers did not support that. Stubbs has been just as productive as Shane Victorino this season.
Catcher
CIN- Ramon Hernandez .297 /7 HR/ 48 RBI/.792 OPS
PHI- Carlos Ruiz .302 /8 HR/ 53 RBI/.847 OPS
First Base
CIN- Joey Votto .324/ 37 HR/ 113 RBI/ 1.024 OPS
PHI- Ryan Howard .276/ 31 HR/ 108 RBI/ .859 OPS
Second Base
CIN- Brandon Phillips .275/ 18 HR/ 59 RBI/ .762 OPS
PHI- Chase Utley .275/ 16 HR/ 65 RBI/ .832 OPS
Shortstop
CIN- Orlando Cabrera .263/ 4 HR/ 42 RBI/ .657 OPS
PHI- Jimmy Rollins .243/ 8 HR/ 41 RBI/ .694 OPS
Third Base
CIN- Scott Rolen .285/ 20 HR/ 83 RBI/ .854 OPS
PHI- Placido Polanco .298/ 6 HR/ 52 RBI/ .726 OPS
Right Field
CIN- Jay Bruce .281/ 25 HR/ 70 RBI/ .846 OPS
PHI- Jayson Werth .296/ 27 HR/ 85 RBI/ .921 OPS
Center Field
CIN- Drew Stubbs .255/ 22 HR/ 77 RBI/ .773 OPS
PHI- Shane Victorino .259/ 18 HR/ 69 RBI/ .756 OPS
Left Field
CIN- Jonny Gomes .266/ 18 HR/ 86 RBI/ .758 OPS
PHI- Raul Ibanez .275/ 16 HR/ 83 RBI/ .793 OPS
There were a lot of things that jumped out at me in looking at the numbers. Comparing the two teams they are pretty close to each other by way of offensive production. The one that really shocked me was the comparison of Drew Stubbs and Shane Victorino. Before actually looking at the numbers I had considered this a weakness for the Reds and advantage for Philadelphia but the numbers did not support that. Stubbs has been just as productive as Shane Victorino this season.
Monday, October 4, 2010
Joey Votto should be National League MVP
Toward the end of the Major League Baseball season there were three players in the National League in the hunt for Most Valuable Player. Joey Votto of the Reds, Albert Pujols of the Cardinals, and Carlos Gonzalez of the Rockies. The only player to lead his team to the post season was Joey Votto. Here are the statistics:
(*) denotes NL rank
Joey Votto
AVG: .324 (2)
HR: 37 (3)
RBI: 113 (3)
Carlos Gonzalez
AVG: .336 (1)
HR: 34 (4)
RBI: 117 (2)
Albert Pujols
AVG: .312 (5)
HR: 42 (1)
RBI: 118 (1)
Looking at the numbers they are all pretty much on top of each other. I think most would say that Pujols is out of the race and it is down between Gonzalez and Votto. I think the fact that Votto has led the Reds to the MLB, has the best OPS in baseball, and had balanced statistics at home and on the road will give him the nod. Check out the splits for Gonzalez and Votto at home and on the road.
Carlos Gonzalez
Home: 114 Hits, 26 HR, 76 RBI, .380 AVG, 1.161 OPS
Away: 83 Hits, 8 HR, 41 RBI, .289 AVG, .775 OPS
Joey Votto
Home: 79 Hits, 18 HR, 56 RBI, .297 AVG, .951 OPS
Away: 98 Hits, 19 HR, 57 RBI, .349 AVG, 1.093 OPS
I find it interesting that Votto actually hit a little better on the road. But overall has a extremely balanced production. I have heard arguments that Gonzalez' numbers are inflated because of playing in Colorado, the numbers would support that. Apologists or people pulling for Gonzalez would say that Great American Ballpark is also a hitters park which would inflate Votto's numbers, but the statistics do not support that. Votto is the more balanced player and should be MVP.
If Votto did win the National League MVP he would be the 12th Cincinnati Red and the first in 15 years to win the prestigious award. His predecessors are the following:
1938- Ernie Lombardi
1939- Bucky Walters
1940- Frank McCormick
1961- Frank Robinson
1970- Johnny Bench
1972- Johnny Bench
1973- Pete Rose
1975- Joe Morgan
1976- Joe Morgan
1977- George Foster
1995- Barry Larkin
(*) denotes NL rank
Joey Votto
AVG: .324 (2)
HR: 37 (3)
RBI: 113 (3)
Carlos Gonzalez
AVG: .336 (1)
HR: 34 (4)
RBI: 117 (2)
Albert Pujols
AVG: .312 (5)
HR: 42 (1)
RBI: 118 (1)
Looking at the numbers they are all pretty much on top of each other. I think most would say that Pujols is out of the race and it is down between Gonzalez and Votto. I think the fact that Votto has led the Reds to the MLB, has the best OPS in baseball, and had balanced statistics at home and on the road will give him the nod. Check out the splits for Gonzalez and Votto at home and on the road.
Carlos Gonzalez
Home: 114 Hits, 26 HR, 76 RBI, .380 AVG, 1.161 OPS
Away: 83 Hits, 8 HR, 41 RBI, .289 AVG, .775 OPS
Joey Votto
Home: 79 Hits, 18 HR, 56 RBI, .297 AVG, .951 OPS
Away: 98 Hits, 19 HR, 57 RBI, .349 AVG, 1.093 OPS
I find it interesting that Votto actually hit a little better on the road. But overall has a extremely balanced production. I have heard arguments that Gonzalez' numbers are inflated because of playing in Colorado, the numbers would support that. Apologists or people pulling for Gonzalez would say that Great American Ballpark is also a hitters park which would inflate Votto's numbers, but the statistics do not support that. Votto is the more balanced player and should be MVP.
If Votto did win the National League MVP he would be the 12th Cincinnati Red and the first in 15 years to win the prestigious award. His predecessors are the following:
1938- Ernie Lombardi
1939- Bucky Walters
1940- Frank McCormick
1961- Frank Robinson
1970- Johnny Bench
1972- Johnny Bench
1973- Pete Rose
1975- Joe Morgan
1976- Joe Morgan
1977- George Foster
1995- Barry Larkin
Can the Reds do it?
The Cincinnati Reds definitely have an uphill battle in the 2010 Postseason. Their reward for their 1st appearance in 15 years is a date with the Philadelphia Phillies, a team with the best record in baseball. The Phillies are a balanced team with a wicked pitching staff and a ton of professional hitters. And most of the guys on the Phillies have been there before when the Phillies won the World Series in 2008.
But look out for this Reds team. They have surprised people all season long, and they are young enough and maybe dumb enough to do it! When you back a man into a corner his instinct is to fight and I think this team might fight their way out of it. No one is giving them a shot and the most dangerous team in sports is typically the team with nothing to lose.
But look out for this Reds team. They have surprised people all season long, and they are young enough and maybe dumb enough to do it! When you back a man into a corner his instinct is to fight and I think this team might fight their way out of it. No one is giving them a shot and the most dangerous team in sports is typically the team with nothing to lose.
Reds Pitching Probables
We know the first game of the series is set.
Edinson Volquez (RHP) vs. Roy Halladay (RHP)
Volquez has an excellent career record against the Phillies going 2-0 with a 0.73 ERA and 16Ks in 12 innings pitched. Halladay is 1-1 against the Reds but has a blistering 33k's in 31 innings pitched.
Game two probables are:
Bronson Arroyo (RHP) vs. Roy Oswalt (RHP)
Arroyo is the only Reds starting pitcher with playoff experience pitching for Boston in the early part of the decade. Oswalt has traditionally been a Reds killer with 23 career wins against the Reds. But this season Oswalt has been 0-2 against Cincinnati with a 6.75 era in 12 innings pitched.
Game three in Cincinnati probables:
Johnny Cueto (RHP) vs. Cole Hamels (LHP)
Cueto has been better at home this season than on the road. And Dusty wants to go Power pitcher, spot pitcher, power pitcher against Philly. Hamels is 1-0 against the Reds with a 0.00 ERA this season. And in his career Hamels has never lost to the Reds going 6-0 in 7 games with a 1.07 ERA.
Edinson Volquez (RHP) vs. Roy Halladay (RHP)
Volquez has an excellent career record against the Phillies going 2-0 with a 0.73 ERA and 16Ks in 12 innings pitched. Halladay is 1-1 against the Reds but has a blistering 33k's in 31 innings pitched.
Game two probables are:
Bronson Arroyo (RHP) vs. Roy Oswalt (RHP)
Arroyo is the only Reds starting pitcher with playoff experience pitching for Boston in the early part of the decade. Oswalt has traditionally been a Reds killer with 23 career wins against the Reds. But this season Oswalt has been 0-2 against Cincinnati with a 6.75 era in 12 innings pitched.
Game three in Cincinnati probables:
Johnny Cueto (RHP) vs. Cole Hamels (LHP)
Cueto has been better at home this season than on the road. And Dusty wants to go Power pitcher, spot pitcher, power pitcher against Philly. Hamels is 1-0 against the Reds with a 0.00 ERA this season. And in his career Hamels has never lost to the Reds going 6-0 in 7 games with a 1.07 ERA.
Bengals all over the Board
The Bengals lost to the Browns. That cannot happen. The Browns are terrible yet they always seem to find a way to play us tough. Football takes a different turn when you play in the Division. There is so much familiarity within the Division it is tough to win every game (which makes what last years team did even more impressive.) But this Cincinnati team should not lose to the Browns, plain and simple.
Thinking back on the game what do you attribute the loss to? Carson Palmer has been the whipping boy in losses (and wins) this season. But yesterday Palmer played pretty good throwing for 371 yards, two TD's and 0 INT's (although there was a botched handoff and a fumble from Palmer.) But here is an interesting statistic that I read on Cincinnati.com. When Palmer throws for more than 300 yards the Bengals have lost 3 straight and seven of their last eight games. This team is built for the run and they need to utilize our backfield to be successful.
There were a few costly penalties yesterday that really hurt the Bengals as they tried to come back. The call on Chinedum Ndukwe on Ben Watson was a joke. Ndukwe did not lead with his helmet did not unnecessarily hit Watson, it was a standard play from a safety trying to knock the ball loose. It turned a 21 yard catch into a 36 yard gain. Another big penalty came on the offense, with the Bengals driving in the 4th on 3rd and 3 Ochocinco gets called for offensive pass interference which pushed us back out of Field Goal range.
I would have to say that overall the game was sloppy. There were some dumb plays, some bad plays, and just overall bad game for the Bengals. You cannot put yourself in that much of a hole against any team in the NFL. There are a lot of things not clicking right now for Cincinnati and they will need to figure that out very soon.
Thinking back on the game what do you attribute the loss to? Carson Palmer has been the whipping boy in losses (and wins) this season. But yesterday Palmer played pretty good throwing for 371 yards, two TD's and 0 INT's (although there was a botched handoff and a fumble from Palmer.) But here is an interesting statistic that I read on Cincinnati.com. When Palmer throws for more than 300 yards the Bengals have lost 3 straight and seven of their last eight games. This team is built for the run and they need to utilize our backfield to be successful.
There were a few costly penalties yesterday that really hurt the Bengals as they tried to come back. The call on Chinedum Ndukwe on Ben Watson was a joke. Ndukwe did not lead with his helmet did not unnecessarily hit Watson, it was a standard play from a safety trying to knock the ball loose. It turned a 21 yard catch into a 36 yard gain. Another big penalty came on the offense, with the Bengals driving in the 4th on 3rd and 3 Ochocinco gets called for offensive pass interference which pushed us back out of Field Goal range.
I would have to say that overall the game was sloppy. There were some dumb plays, some bad plays, and just overall bad game for the Bengals. You cannot put yourself in that much of a hole against any team in the NFL. There are a lot of things not clicking right now for Cincinnati and they will need to figure that out very soon.
Friday, October 1, 2010
Seriously Cincinnati, just enjoy the Moment!
Just two days after our Cincinnati Reds locked up the National League Central Division Championship there were two stories crowding the airwaves in Cincinnati.
- First, you have a ton of people calling in to local radio shows complaining about Dusty Baker's post-clinch lineup. Dusty was resting his starters for the playoffs. It happens all over the NFL, NBA, and NHL. For one game Dusty Baker gave his studs a break and the backups some valuable time. Yet, people in this city want to begin the serious criticism of the decision and spend the day railing on Dusty rather than enjoying the position that we are in.
- Second, the 5 individuals who filed complaints with the Cincinnati Health Department for the Reds smoking Cigars indoors need to really get a life. As one blogger put it "they were not disturbing your meal at Olive Garden."
It has been 15 years since this team has been in the playoffs people. I recommend stopping and enjoying the moment. I think the years of losing has most "fans" wired to just bitch and moan. Relax people!
- First, you have a ton of people calling in to local radio shows complaining about Dusty Baker's post-clinch lineup. Dusty was resting his starters for the playoffs. It happens all over the NFL, NBA, and NHL. For one game Dusty Baker gave his studs a break and the backups some valuable time. Yet, people in this city want to begin the serious criticism of the decision and spend the day railing on Dusty rather than enjoying the position that we are in.
- Second, the 5 individuals who filed complaints with the Cincinnati Health Department for the Reds smoking Cigars indoors need to really get a life. As one blogger put it "they were not disturbing your meal at Olive Garden."
It has been 15 years since this team has been in the playoffs people. I recommend stopping and enjoying the moment. I think the years of losing has most "fans" wired to just bitch and moan. Relax people!
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Playoff Matchups
Here are the teams we could potentially see in the playoffs and our record against them in the regular season.
Atlanta Braves
2-3 (.400)
24 runs scored
24 runs allowed
Philadelphia Phillies
2-5 (.286)
27 runs scored
30 runs allowed
San Diego Padres
2-4 (.333)
27 runs scored
29 runs allowed
San Francisco Giants
3-4 (.429)
37 runs scored
56 runs allowed
Atlanta Braves
2-3 (.400)
24 runs scored
24 runs allowed
Philadelphia Phillies
2-5 (.286)
27 runs scored
30 runs allowed
San Diego Padres
2-4 (.333)
27 runs scored
29 runs allowed
San Francisco Giants
3-4 (.429)
37 runs scored
56 runs allowed
From the NKYSportsWorld Vault
This was first posted last August from Guest Columnist "Mr. Chocolate Milk Man" Brian. Not a bad assessment considering what happened with this team. I wanted to re-post this because I find it interesting that a lot of these guys are helping us right now. Although it does sound that he was not really happy with the Rolen deal....how is that working out now?
NKYSportsWorld first Guest Columnist Brian-
Over the recent weeks, the Cincinnati Reds have traded away a couple of very talented young arms, from their minor leagues most notably Zach Stewart and Josh Roenicke who were included in the Scott Rolen deal. They also traded away Robert Manuel to Seattle for Wladimir Balentien. For many organizations, this splurge of talent would be devastating to the young crop of talent within the minor league system. However, the Reds have been building this very slowly, and have acquired a good stock of young arms within the minors that are still left despite these trades.
A few examples of these young arms are two young men now patrolling the back end of the Riverbats bullpen in Louisville, Logan Ondrusek and Enerio Del Rosario. Both the 24 year old Ondrusek, who stands 6 feet seven in stature (ala Aaron Harang) and the 23 year old Rosario began the season in Single A.
After successful stints in both A (2-0 O.96 ERA in 13 games, pitching 18.2 innings, allowing 7 hits, 2 ER, 7 BB. and 12 SO) and also in AA ( 2-1 1.65 ERA in 24 games, pitching 32.2 innings, allowing 21 hits, 6 ER, 12 BB, 24 SO and 7 saves). Ondrusek now finds himself as one of the closers for the Triple A Bats, where he has been spectacular ( 0-0 0.00 ERA in 7 games, pitching 8.1 innings, allowing 5 hits, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 SO and 4 saves).
Del Sorario has been equally as impressive in his ascent to Triple A Louisville from Single A Sarasota, in A (2-1 1.98 ERA in 31 games, pitching 50 innings, allowing 40 hits, 11 ER, 6 BB, 33 SO, and 7 saves), while in AA( 0-0 1.59 ERA in 4 games, pitching 5.2 innings, allowing 2 hits, 1 ER, 0 BB, 9 SO and 1 save). Del Rosario also now finds himself enjoying success with the Triple AAA Bats ( 0-0 1.13 ERA in 5 games, pitching 8.0 innings, allowing 5 hits, 1 ER, 0 BB, 4 SO, and 2 saves). Ondrusek and Del Rosario are only two examples of the youthful talent that is conjugated in Louisville.
Along with these two, 22 year old starter Travis Wood has found his way to Louisville, after compiling impressive numbers in Double AA ( 9-3 1.21 ERA in 19 games, all starts, pitching 119 innings, allowing 78 hits, 16 ER, 37 BB, and 103 SO). Wood has also enjoyed success in Louisville,( 2-1 2.55 ERA in 4 games, all starts, pitching 24.2 innings, allowing 19 hits, 7 ER, 12 BB, 14 SO). These three young arms along with International League leader in holds with 16, 26 year old left handed Pedro Viola, and also 25 year old left-handed starter Matt Maloney, who made his major league debut earlier this season, and the Reds have a solid group of young arms waiting on the horizon.
The success of these young arms must have made it much easier for Walt Jocketty to pull the trigger to bring much needed leadership to a team in tailspin. Championship teams are not built over night, and require the right mix of talent, whether youthful or not. The steps are being taken to build this team as a contender for more than just one year.
NKYSportsWorld first Guest Columnist Brian-
Over the recent weeks, the Cincinnati Reds have traded away a couple of very talented young arms, from their minor leagues most notably Zach Stewart and Josh Roenicke who were included in the Scott Rolen deal. They also traded away Robert Manuel to Seattle for Wladimir Balentien. For many organizations, this splurge of talent would be devastating to the young crop of talent within the minor league system. However, the Reds have been building this very slowly, and have acquired a good stock of young arms within the minors that are still left despite these trades.
A few examples of these young arms are two young men now patrolling the back end of the Riverbats bullpen in Louisville, Logan Ondrusek and Enerio Del Rosario. Both the 24 year old Ondrusek, who stands 6 feet seven in stature (ala Aaron Harang) and the 23 year old Rosario began the season in Single A.
After successful stints in both A (2-0 O.96 ERA in 13 games, pitching 18.2 innings, allowing 7 hits, 2 ER, 7 BB. and 12 SO) and also in AA ( 2-1 1.65 ERA in 24 games, pitching 32.2 innings, allowing 21 hits, 6 ER, 12 BB, 24 SO and 7 saves). Ondrusek now finds himself as one of the closers for the Triple A Bats, where he has been spectacular ( 0-0 0.00 ERA in 7 games, pitching 8.1 innings, allowing 5 hits, 0 ER, 1 BB, 3 SO and 4 saves).
Del Sorario has been equally as impressive in his ascent to Triple A Louisville from Single A Sarasota, in A (2-1 1.98 ERA in 31 games, pitching 50 innings, allowing 40 hits, 11 ER, 6 BB, 33 SO, and 7 saves), while in AA( 0-0 1.59 ERA in 4 games, pitching 5.2 innings, allowing 2 hits, 1 ER, 0 BB, 9 SO and 1 save). Del Rosario also now finds himself enjoying success with the Triple AAA Bats ( 0-0 1.13 ERA in 5 games, pitching 8.0 innings, allowing 5 hits, 1 ER, 0 BB, 4 SO, and 2 saves). Ondrusek and Del Rosario are only two examples of the youthful talent that is conjugated in Louisville.
Along with these two, 22 year old starter Travis Wood has found his way to Louisville, after compiling impressive numbers in Double AA ( 9-3 1.21 ERA in 19 games, all starts, pitching 119 innings, allowing 78 hits, 16 ER, 37 BB, and 103 SO). Wood has also enjoyed success in Louisville,( 2-1 2.55 ERA in 4 games, all starts, pitching 24.2 innings, allowing 19 hits, 7 ER, 12 BB, 14 SO). These three young arms along with International League leader in holds with 16, 26 year old left handed Pedro Viola, and also 25 year old left-handed starter Matt Maloney, who made his major league debut earlier this season, and the Reds have a solid group of young arms waiting on the horizon.
The success of these young arms must have made it much easier for Walt Jocketty to pull the trigger to bring much needed leadership to a team in tailspin. Championship teams are not built over night, and require the right mix of talent, whether youthful or not. The steps are being taken to build this team as a contender for more than just one year.
Who is responsible for this team?
A few of us NKYSportsWorlders last night at the Reds game were having the discussion of who was responsible for this team. We had a consensus that Jim Bowden had absolutely NOTHING to do with the current Reds success but spoke a lot about O'Brien, Krivsky, and Jocketty. Then today on Lance McCallisters blog at 1530homer.com he posted the following which is pretty interesting.
How the Reds were built
(The General Manager that acquired each of the players on the Reds roster.)
Jim Bowden (2)
Joey Votto, draft, 2nd round, 2002
Ryan Hanigan, non-drafted free agent, 2002
Dan O'Brien (6)
Homer Bailey, draft, 1st round, 2004
Paul Janish, draft, 5th round, 2004
Jay Bruce, draft, 1st round, 2005
Travis Wood, draft, 4th round, 2005
Logan Ondrusek, draft, 13th round, 2005
Johnny Cueto, non-drafted free agent, 2004
Brad Kuhlman, interim GM (1)
Aaron Harang, trade, 2003
Wayne Krivsky (8)
Drew Stubbs, draft, 1st round, 2006
Jordan Smith, draft, 6th round, 2006
Chris Heisey, draft, 17th round, 2006
Brandon Phillips trade, 2006
Bronson Arroyo, trade, 2006
Edinson Volquez, trade, 2007
Francisco Cordero, free agent, 2007
Bill Bray, trade, 2006
Walt Jocketty (11)
Aroldis Chapman, free agent, 2010
Mike Leake, draft, 1st round, 2009
Ramon Hernandez, trade, 2008
Orlando Cabrera, free agent, 2010
Scott Rolen, trade, 2009
Jonny Gomes, free agent, 2009
Miguel Cairo, free agent, 2010
Laynce Nix, free agent, 2008
Jim Edmonds, trade, 2010
Arthur Rhodes, free agent, 2008
Nick Masset, trade, 2008
How the Reds were built
(The General Manager that acquired each of the players on the Reds roster.)
Jim Bowden (2)
Joey Votto, draft, 2nd round, 2002
Ryan Hanigan, non-drafted free agent, 2002
Dan O'Brien (6)
Homer Bailey, draft, 1st round, 2004
Paul Janish, draft, 5th round, 2004
Jay Bruce, draft, 1st round, 2005
Travis Wood, draft, 4th round, 2005
Logan Ondrusek, draft, 13th round, 2005
Johnny Cueto, non-drafted free agent, 2004
Brad Kuhlman, interim GM (1)
Aaron Harang, trade, 2003
Wayne Krivsky (8)
Drew Stubbs, draft, 1st round, 2006
Jordan Smith, draft, 6th round, 2006
Chris Heisey, draft, 17th round, 2006
Brandon Phillips trade, 2006
Bronson Arroyo, trade, 2006
Edinson Volquez, trade, 2007
Francisco Cordero, free agent, 2007
Bill Bray, trade, 2006
Walt Jocketty (11)
Aroldis Chapman, free agent, 2010
Mike Leake, draft, 1st round, 2009
Ramon Hernandez, trade, 2008
Orlando Cabrera, free agent, 2010
Scott Rolen, trade, 2009
Jonny Gomes, free agent, 2009
Miguel Cairo, free agent, 2010
Laynce Nix, free agent, 2008
Jim Edmonds, trade, 2010
Arthur Rhodes, free agent, 2008
Nick Masset, trade, 2008
We are the Champions!!!!!
Wow! What an energy last night at Great American Ballpark. I have been a Reds fan my entire life and I have never been to a Reds game like that. What an amazing feeling as a fan to watch your team clinch the National League Central Division Championship. For so many years I have had to watch other teams celebrate in the locker room, other fans cheering their winners, but not this year. This year it is our turn! This year the Reds are Champions!
At times last night the energy in the crowd was nervous energy. There was a mixture of watching on the field and watching the scoreboard. We all saw Pittsburgh take an early lead on St. Louis but no one in the stands, and I suspect in the dugout, wanted to become the Champions in that way. We all wanted to do it on our field. And with one swing of the bat in the bottom of the ninth inning Jay Bruce brought it home!
How do you react to a Division Championship? I don't know? I was 11 last time the Reds were in the playoffs. While I was a huge fan at the time I didn't have the same everyday following like I do now. But it is really hard for me to fathom the fact that people around the country are going to be watching my Cincinnati Reds in the playoffs. Fans from Milwaukee, Kansas City, Arizona, Detroit, and Seattle will be watching our Reds and wishing they were in the post-season.
I have decided that I am going to be an optimist here. No one predicted the Reds would win their Division so they are playing with house money. Why can't it be us? Why can't we be the ones who go out and shock the world and win it all? Remember those Marlins teams that did it with young talent? That could be us. Now lets go do it Redlegs. Our 2010 NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL CHAMPIONS!
At times last night the energy in the crowd was nervous energy. There was a mixture of watching on the field and watching the scoreboard. We all saw Pittsburgh take an early lead on St. Louis but no one in the stands, and I suspect in the dugout, wanted to become the Champions in that way. We all wanted to do it on our field. And with one swing of the bat in the bottom of the ninth inning Jay Bruce brought it home!
How do you react to a Division Championship? I don't know? I was 11 last time the Reds were in the playoffs. While I was a huge fan at the time I didn't have the same everyday following like I do now. But it is really hard for me to fathom the fact that people around the country are going to be watching my Cincinnati Reds in the playoffs. Fans from Milwaukee, Kansas City, Arizona, Detroit, and Seattle will be watching our Reds and wishing they were in the post-season.
I have decided that I am going to be an optimist here. No one predicted the Reds would win their Division so they are playing with house money. Why can't it be us? Why can't we be the ones who go out and shock the world and win it all? Remember those Marlins teams that did it with young talent? That could be us. Now lets go do it Redlegs. Our 2010 NATIONAL LEAGUE CENTRAL CHAMPIONS!
Thursday, September 23, 2010
Random rumblings
* Carson Palmer is not an elite Quarterback. That is the first step in my Bengals Fan confessions. I have for many years held out that Carson is an Elite Quarterback in the NFL but things have just not gone his way. I have said to myself and friends, "he is just still timid from the Knee injury, he will be fine." But guess what, the Knee injury happened in 2005! He has also dealt with the shoulder injury from 2008. But there are other QB's in the league who have dealt with injury and just brushed it off. The injury excuse for Palmer is over. This team has given him all of the weapons they can now it is time for Palmer to step his game up. I love the guy "that's my quarterback" But if this team is going to succeed they need Palmer to make the throws that he has continually been missing. To his credit, I don't think this offensive line is a strong of a pass blocking line than people will say, Palmer has been getting the ball out fast but under a decent amount of pressure.
* The Reds magic number is down to 3 games. Last night was a train wreck for sure. Cueto gives up 8 runs in 1 1/3 innings and Harang comes in to give up 2 more before leaving after being drilled by a line drive. (I seriously thought the ball broke his leg, that sounded nasty!) But last night was kind of a blessing to me. Dusty was able to play some guys that have not been on the field in a while and give some rest to our studs. The Cardinals continued their streak against the Pirates and got drilled so we lowered the magic number by one game. The playoffs can be wrapped up this weekend in San Diego. (Did I just say that?)
* Kentucky football has their first big test of the season this weekend when they play Florida in Gainesville. This is not last years Florida team for sure but they are still a strong opponent with some weak spots. Mike Hartline has been phenomenal so far this season and they will need him to be very good to beat Florida.
* We are still waiting for the official report out of Alabama regarding the grades of Eric Bledsoe. There are a couple of issues at hand but if it is revealed that Bledsoes grades were tampered with in any way I am sure he would be retroactively ruled ineligible and Kentucky would have to vacate their season. Stay tuned.
* Louisville recruit Tony Wroten Jr. tweeted last night that he had a good visit with "Coach Patino," now that is funny!
* The Reds magic number is down to 3 games. Last night was a train wreck for sure. Cueto gives up 8 runs in 1 1/3 innings and Harang comes in to give up 2 more before leaving after being drilled by a line drive. (I seriously thought the ball broke his leg, that sounded nasty!) But last night was kind of a blessing to me. Dusty was able to play some guys that have not been on the field in a while and give some rest to our studs. The Cardinals continued their streak against the Pirates and got drilled so we lowered the magic number by one game. The playoffs can be wrapped up this weekend in San Diego. (Did I just say that?)
* Kentucky football has their first big test of the season this weekend when they play Florida in Gainesville. This is not last years Florida team for sure but they are still a strong opponent with some weak spots. Mike Hartline has been phenomenal so far this season and they will need him to be very good to beat Florida.
* We are still waiting for the official report out of Alabama regarding the grades of Eric Bledsoe. There are a couple of issues at hand but if it is revealed that Bledsoes grades were tampered with in any way I am sure he would be retroactively ruled ineligible and Kentucky would have to vacate their season. Stay tuned.
* Louisville recruit Tony Wroten Jr. tweeted last night that he had a good visit with "Coach Patino," now that is funny!
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