Does Baseball need a Salary Cap?

Absolutely, and without a doubt, Major League Baseball should develop a salary-cap system to control the finances that are beginning to spiral out of control in the sports world. In an era that has dealt with a huge inflation rate over the last 10 years, selected baseball owners have the taken advantage of their positions in the baseball market and have created contracts that were "unthinkable" in the decades of the last century.

While I do agree that the luxury tax and revenue sharing ideas have helped cause somewhat of a soft cap on baseball, it hasn't done the job completely. Large market teams have considerable control over their destiny and success. Padres owner John Moores once wrote in the Wall Street Journal shortly after his team had, ironically, reached the World Series "Unless baseball changes the way it does business, it risks seeing its fans drift away, tired of their teams' futility. Perhaps 12 of 30 Major League teams have any possibility of reaching post-season play, and fewer still have a realistic hope of winning a pennant." That statement speaks volumes. Because Baseball is of course "America's Pastime", however the focus is now the keyword "past".

Football has slowly become the sport of the current age. The shorter season and the single game per week theory has equaled higher ratings and higher anticipation for the weekends. Not to mention the evolution and improvements in physical science that have led to stronger and quicker players which equal better action and entertainment on the field. More importantly, the NFL's salary cap has created an atmosphere that allows nearly any team in the league to have a chance to succeed in a given year. Football fans love the mindset of knowing their underdog team has a much better chance of playing for post-season contention than in Baseball because the cap prevents large market teams from "splurging" with their revenue and buying out the free agent market.

While the luxury tax and revenue sharing rules have helped soften the blow that league was starting to endure in the late 90's, it does not prevent large market teams from creating monsters. Let's take the Yankees for example. New York has payed oodles of cash through luxury taxes over the last few years and are yearly repeat offenders of the tax threshold that keeps teams in the clear. However, the mindset in New York is to win championships and anything short of that is failure. Their is no such tax that can change that mindset and the reason is because the Yankees have such a huge portion of the market and fan base that they do not care about what they have to pay out to the league. The Yankees are the prime example of what is wrong with baseball today. The only thing that could put some containment on these issues is a cap.

A salary cap equals better competition through out the league because it forces big name players to be placed on teams that can afford them. It prevents teams from creating "monsters" that conquer their respective divisions. The problem that results from having too many "monsters" in a league, are the fans of the smaller market teams that are tired of seeing the same "monsters" in championship races every year. It's like watching a David vs. Goliath match every year in the playoffs and fans are tired of it. As a result, we have not witnessed an "exciting" World Series since 1995 and 1996. The only reason why the 2001 series was so great is because the world witnessed the downing of the Yankee empire against the expansion team/underdog Diamondbacks. Fans love football because this doesn't happen. There are different teams in the playoffs almost every year, and the teams that are repeats deserve recognition for being successful teams because it is not easy in a salary-cap world. The New England Patriots are given much credit for being a franchise that has been so successful over the last seven years by winning three championships in an system that makes it nearly impossible to do so. When the Yankees won repeated championships, people accused them of simply "buying" them.

The bottom-line here is that at Major League Baseball is spinning into an uncertain future. With the economy inflating at the rate is has been recently, the league faces the risk of losing fans due to team inequality. Small market teams have less of a chance to succeed every year and their fan bases have shrunk. A salary cap would place these issues in check and give the market a chance to even out.

For a game that has such a prestigious history, it has slowly lost its title of being "America's Game". Now, its just the "Pastime".

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What's more impressive: Barry Bonds' 755 home runs or Roger Clemens' 350 Wins?

This is a topic that should not be argued. Both records show longevity, greatness, and a dominance at their respectful positions. However, 755 homeruns is in-fact a harder record to break than 350 wins. Why? Here is a couple distinct reasons:

1.) The amount of wins a pitcher has over his career can reflect the quality of the team he played for and against. Clemens has pitched for great teams throughout his career and has had great help from his offenses and bullpens to get wins. He played five seasons with the Yankees where his ERA was never below 3.51 and he had an offense and bullpen that gave him gift-wrapped wins. Not to mention his time spent in Houston during an era where the National League was a complete pitchers league. The hitters in the NL failed in comparison to the AL. Clemens's ERA in his time spent in Houston was below 3.00.

2.) If Clemens played for poor teams, he would not have reached 350, maybe not even 300 because he would have had more no-decisions.

3.) Barry hit 753 homeruns on both good and bad teams. The homerun is not a statistic that is based on the quality of a team's performance. It is an individual accomplishment like a strikeout is to a pitcher.

4.) Bonds will be number one for All-Time homeruns hit. Clemens is number eight and needs another 163 wins to beat Cy Young. Granted that its a record that may never be broken due to the evolution of the ball and the game.

If you want to compare these two players, talk about Clemens's strikeouts numbers. (number two all-time) He needs about 900 more to pass Ryan. Even though Bond's would win that debate too, remember the name "Clemens" has been thrown around in steroids talk as well.

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Let's talk some FANTASY FOOTBALL!! (Part 2: Tight End)

Hey everyone! I am back after a few days layoff - sorry, had some personal issues to take care of. With that being said, lets get into my top 10 NFL Fantasy Tight End's for the 2007 season:

#10) Ben Watson (NE) - One of Tom Brady's favorite red zone targets. He is now the undisputed #1 TE in New England w/ Daniel Graham going to Denver. I drafted him last year, I wasn't dissapointed.

#9) LJ Smith (PHI) - Contract year - will perform well as long as McNabb is healthy. If McNabb is hurt... LJ will tank. 18 red zone targets... thats 3rd best last year.

#8) Vernon Davis (SF) - BYE BYE Eric Johnson! Vernon was hurt for a good chunk of the season last year. In training camp this year, he has shown that he can lineup as a WR which could bolster his value even more. SF is my pick to win the NFC West this year by the way.

#7) Todd Heap (BAL) - Team leading 73 receptions last year, look for that number to stay consistant. 29% of Baltimore's receptions were from Tight Ends... think about that.

#6) Chris Cooley (WAS) - 19 TDs in the last 3 years. Campbell really likes this guy. Cooley might be the only consistant weopon on the Redskins offense.

#5) Alge Crumpler (ATL) - 750-800 yards I project this year. 6-8 TD's. Yes ATL will run the ball alot, and Michael Vick is not a great passing QB, but Alge was 2nd in red zone targets last year, and I look for that to continue.

#4) Kellen Winslow (CLE) - PLEASE STAY HEALTHY! The Browns just completely suck, I predict them to get the #2 overall pick in the 08 draft. But Kellen is an ANIMAL! The Browns were by far the team that used the TE the most last year. Someone please throw him the damn ball!!

#3) Jeremy Shockey (NYG) - No Tiki means more targets for Shockey. He has 20 TDs in the last 3 years, thats the best in the league. He had 7 red zone touchdowns last year (#1 in the league) 70 rec. 700 yards 7 TDs.

#2) Tony Gonzalez (KC) - Even at age 31, he is the most reliable Tight End in the game today. Only missed 2 games in his entire 10 year career. Extrememly durable and is the #1 receiving option in KC. Look for 70 rec, 900 yards, 6 TDs.

and finally my #1 Tight End for this year... (WHAT A SURPRISE THIS IS GOING TO BE!)

#1) Antonio Gates (SD) - What can I say about this guy that nobody else has in the past? Yes the Chargers used a (smart) pick on WR Craig Davis... but how much do you really think he's going to cut into Gates' numbers? SLIM TO NONE is my opinion. Since 2004, Gates has had 900+ yards with 9 or more TDs every year. This man is the undisputed #1 Tight End in the NFL.

Next time I will be going over Defense rankings. These are my personal rankings, and I am sticking to it! Peace : )

- Gabe

Barry Bonds getting thrown in the Fire...Literally.

If Barry Bonds hasn't gotten burned enough in his career, then one fan might set a little more fire to it.

On ESPN's Cold Pizza today, Jay Crawford interviewed a man named Keith McDonough who is the owner of "Bleacher Sports Memorabilia Shop" outside of Chicago. McDonough is one of the many baseball fans in this country who is outraged at the possibility of Bonds breaking Hank Aaron's record within the next few weeks. So outraged, that he has created an event called a "Bonds-Fire" where he is asking people around the country to donate Barry Bonds memorabilia and have it burned in a massive bonfire when 756 is belted. McDonough will be donating $2000 worth of Bonds items from his shop to get the event "heated up". The email address (for anyone interested) is Bondsretire754@aol.com to receive more information on this event.

McDonough also asked during the interview to have fans bring 8 x 10 cards to the stadium that say "B.R.754" which means Barry Retire when you hit 754. If Bonds were to do this, McDonough says it would be "A classy move." He also stated that Bonds will not be making the Hall of Fame, just tarnishing a great accomplishment in sports history.

Now, we can all see that this man is a leading example of the disgruntled fans that would love to protect Aaron's record. But, lets be real here. A bonfire? Sorry, a "bondsfire?" To put it simply: That is hilarious. I don't own any Bonds stuff. But if I did, I would rather keep the value. His Topps rookie card is worth over $500 on the Internet. Don't expect to see too many of those getting thrown in the fire.

As crazy as this event may seem, it's gonna happen. This is nothing more than an outlet for fans to really take a stab back at baseball. For letting players get away with taking performance enhancers and steroids for so long. Because in the end, even though Bonds got away with taking steroids (so far), theoretically he hasn't because its the fans and the general public that have the last say to a player's greatness. If steroids were never a factor then we the fans would be applauding these record breaking years we have endured through the skills of Bonds and McGwire. Baseball would not have any shadows covering the greatness and history of the game. Instead, Hall-of-Fame caliber players are getting black marked and denied induction to the Hall.

Mr. Keith McDonough there is no need to worry. Bond's record will be shattered within the next 10 years. And we can put this issue to rest.

Let's talk some FANTASY FOOTBALL!! (Part 1: Kickers)

Hey everyone! Welcome to my very first blog of my entire life! My name is Gabe, and I consider myself a fantasy baseball and football guru. I'd first off like to thank my good friend, former roommate, college buddy Chris for giving me this opportunity! With that being said, LETS GET RIGHT INTO THE ACTION!

There is nothing I like talking about more then Fantasy Football. (Maybe with the exception of my Chicago Bears or WWE). Each day I am going to talk about my top 10 for each position. The first position I will discuss, is the Kicker spot.

Here is my top 10 Kickers for this upcoming season:

10) Josh Scobee (JAC) - made 80% of his kicks last year, and was #6 overall in kicker total points in 2006
9) Neil Rackers (AZ) - new coach, much improved offense, huge leg (despite only converting 1 50+ yard FG last year)
8) Matt Stover (BAL) - 93.3% kicking accuracy for best in the league last year. Willis McGahee HUGE upgrade over Jamal Lewis means more points for this 39 year old from Lousiana Institute of Technology
7) Robbie Gould (CHI) - league high 143 points last year - no Thomas Jones this year however, so the offense maybe a little inconsistant at times (especially with Grossman at the helm)
6) Jason Elam (DEN) - top 10 in each of the last 5 years in terms of points. Travis Henry is an upgrade in the running game, this 37 year old should have no problem putting up points.
5) Jeff Wilkins (STL) - league leading 32 FG's last year... high powered offense, a MONSTER at long range field goals.... enough said.
4) Stephen Gostkowski (NE) - the unbelievable WR core that the Pats now have will prove to be HUGE with Gostkowski. The Pats will score LOTS of points this year.
3) Adam Vinatieri (IND) - Colts offense? Playing in a dome? Future Hall of Fame kicker? Do the Math.
2) Shayne Graham (CIN) - Converted 52 of 63 FGs in the last 2 years. Top 10 in scoring each of the last 3 years. Carson Palmer the QB? Chad Johnson the WR? Rudi Johnson the RB? POINTS!!!!

and my #1 overall Kicker: Nate Kaeding (SD) - Nate has the luxury of having the greatest RB in recent years with LT. Phillip Rivers is improving each and every year. Gates is a monster. SD in general is a very solid team.. I just hope they lose to my Bears Week 1 haha!

Thats it from here, until tomorrow... those are my rankings, and I'm sticking to it!

Mark Cuban to the Windy City?

Sources say Dallas Mavericks owner Mark Cuban is interested in purchasing The Chicago Cubs organization and taking a venture into baseball. Cuban filled out an application to take over the team which has been up for sale since April by the Tribune Co.

Cuban has owned the Mavericks for seven years and has improved the franchise greatly since his arrival with a 20% increase in overall winning percentage and a trip to the NBA finals. The Mavs had previously never reached the finals.

Cuban has always been known to be an aggressive and outgoing owner with a great sense of enthusiasm during his tenure with the Mavericks. A personality that is needed for the Cubs. An organization that has seen its share of hard times and could absolutlely use the optimistic lift that Cuban brings to the table.

However, Cuban must first get through Commissioner Bud Selig and Chicago Sports Mogul Jerry Reinsdorf. Considering Selig has the power to deny the purchase to Cuban at his expense. But why would Selig want to deny Cuban ownership? Because Selig is very close to Reinsdorf who is the owner of the White Sox and the Bulls. The same person who voted against Cuban purchasing the Mavericks in 2000 during the owners voting session. He lost 29 to 1. The connection between the two men may prevent Cuban from getting into Chicago.

But from a business aspect, how could you not want Cuban running the show in Chicago? What negative aspect does he bring to baseball? Cuban has proven to be dedicated to his team and has done wonders for the Dallas franchise. Cuban knows he can be the difference maker in Chicago and I think the team and fans know it too. He brings a level of enthusiasm that Chicago has not seen in quite some time.

If your Bud Selig, you have to consider Cuban to take part in a franchise that has tried so hard to stay alive for years. Especially in a market that is there for the taking. Who knows. Maybe Cuban could even persuade a certain Rodriguez to join the Cub family next season.

Is the Ichiro signing the "end of the world?"

Florida Marlins President David Samson seems to think so.

During an interview on a local sports talk radio show, Samson called the possible Ichiro contract extension as "the end of the world as we know it", "a joke", and "it will take the sport down." According to Yahoo.com.



Samson, however was the same president who twice held a "fire sale" after two world series appearances by trading and cutting key players from both 1997 and 2003 world series teams in attempts to start over with a low budget. Also, Samson fired NL Manager of the Year Jack McKeon after their World Series Win over the New York Yankees in 2003. Not to mention he is the president of an organization with one of the lowest season attendance record averages ever.

If Ichiro and the Mariners come to an agreement on a contract extension that will pay roughly $100 million over the next 5 years, it will make him the most over-paid lead-off hitter in the game and it will add to the list of over-priced players in the league. Do I agree with Mr. Samson? Yes, but you won't hear me on talk shows ranting and raving about it either.

Ichiro will be 34 this year. He is currently an exceptional lead-off hitter due to his speed and great contact ability at the plate. Not to mention he has great range with an above average arm as well. However, Ichiro will be turning 39 in his contract year. By that time his speed and range will have diminished to a point, and his bat speed will have slowed as well. All the things that Ichiro depends upon currently and what make him what he is today will be well under the value of his contract.

This deal is similar to the Johnny Damon deal of almost two years ago. Damon in his prime was an elite leadoff hitter with great range and a strong bat. The Red Sox decided to let go of Damon after the 2005 season because of contractual reasons. The Red Sox were afraid to sign the 31 year old Damon to a long term extension because of his age at the lead-off position. The Yankees soon signed Damon to a four year deal that December. Damon will be getting paid over $12 million during his contract year at age 36. As a lead-off hitter.

Is Ichiro better than Damon in their primes? Yes. Which is why Ichiro deserves better money. However, signing him to a $100 million dollar contract would be crazy at his age. I understand much of this contract has to do with Japanese media and marketing politics. Still, $20 million is too much money for a player who doesn't drive in runs and solely relies on hits and OBP. In my mind, Ichiro is worth roughly $17 million a year for the next two years. Watch his value drop after age 36.

The Dish is back in Full Swing.

I have taken some time off for personal reasons. The web site is back up starting Thursday July 12th. Please spread the word and give me good reader feedback.

Chris

What to expect at No. 756.

San Fransisco Giants slugger Barry Bonds is only five home runs shy of breaking the game's All-Time record set by Hank Aaron 31 years ago. And as that time comes closer, many questions surround baseball about what will happen at that time. Where will commissioner Bud Selig be? Where will Hank Aaron be? What park will Bonds do it in? What will the fan reaction be? How many more will he hit afterwards? Will he retire after the season?



It seems to be a touchy subject as of late, but I figured I would give a little insight into what fans can expect from this upcoming event.



1. Where will Bud Selig be at 756? Thus far, Selig has expressed emotion showing that he will not be at the event. To say that he will stick to his guns and not show up is hard to say. The hard fact that Selig must face is that Bonds has not been technically convicted of taking steroids even though he and the rest of the world knows he did. With that being said, he should show up. Although deep down he doesn't want to. Frankly, I don't blame him.



2. Where will Hank Aaron be? This one is simple: At Home. Earlier this year, Bonds publicly announced that he had been trying to contact Aaron for quite some time and that he deeply admires him. Bonds obviously wanted Aaron's support behind the record. Aaron later sent Bonds a telegram (yes, a telegram) saying he wished him luck however, wanted no part in the event. Aaron not only doesn't want to be in attendance, but he wants nothing to do with Bonds or the milestone itself.



3. What Park will Bonds hit 756? It's tough to say which stadium, but I can tell you it will be in California. Giants play three at home starting Friday, then go on a seven game road trip, followed by an eight game home stand against the Braves and Marlins. If he doesn't hit it against the Marlins, he will have an eight game road trip in California against the Padres and Dodgers to do it.



4. What will the fan reaction be? Depends on where he does it. If Bonds hits it at home it will be a big ovation and a big deal. If he hits it anywhere else he will still get an ovation, but it won't be the same. It will be a more of a mixed ovation. But one thing remains true: He will do it at a sold out stadium.



5. How many more will he hit afterwards? I expect Bonds to reach the 770 mark. So long as Bonds stays healthy the remainder of the season he should duplicate the 17 home runs he hit in the first half, if not more.



6. Will he retire after the season? Yes, absolutely and definitely. If I had to bet my soul on it I would. Bonds wants nothing to do with baseball or the spotlight anymore after he breaks the record. Bonds hates people and the negative attention he keeps getting. He has never been a fan-friendly player and never will be. Once he retires, he will vanish off like Mark McGwire has. I wouldn't even be that surprised if he retired soon after he breaks it.



I hope this helps you expect what will come in the next few weeks. Regardless of the steroids case that surrounds baseball, the record deserves recognition and Bonds should still be honored for it. Asterisk it if you will, but I have a feeling Bonds will not be holding this record for very long.

A-Rod will be Guaranteed $30 Million Annually says Boras

New York Yankees third basemen Alex Rodriguez's agent Scott Boras has indicated that he will not be negotiating with the Yankee ballclub during the season and has raised the ante on what it will take to keep the league's best hitter in New York, according to the New York Post.

During a telephone interview with the Post, Boras indicated that Rodriguez will opt out of his contract at the end of the season that will pay him an estimated $28 million in 2008. This conversation coming only two days after the Yankees announced that they will break tradition and re-negotiate A-Rod's contract during the season.

Rodriguez is already among the highest paid players in the league along with teammates Roger Clemens and Jason Giambi.

It is also noted that if A-Rod does opt out of his contract, then the Texas Rangers will no longer have to pay their share of his contract due to trade stipulations back in 2003.

Let the Games Begin.

An award-winning writer could not have written a better storyline for the return of "The Rocket". Not even Roger Clemens himself.

But he can sure act the part.

Think about it. The New York Yankees. America's Team. In the middle of a rut that not a single person could have predicted. Last place through April. Four of their top starters down and finding their way back to recovery. A bullpen that couldn't hold a win if their lives depended on it. And most importantly, 7 games behind Boston throughout the first 5 weeks of baseball including a 1 - 5 record against them. That's a pretty antagonistic setting for the normal Yankee Fan.

Then suddenly, during the 7th inning stretch of a game being dominated by the pin stripers, a voice tells the crowd to place their attention to the stadium video screen where Roger Clemens makes a statement telling the crowd he has decided to come save the Yankees and pitch for New York for the remainder of the season.

Great storyline huh? In the last chapter, Yankees go on to win the World Series, Clemens gets his eighth Cy Young, and Joe Torre and Brian Cashman save their jobs.

Well, we'll place that book in the fictional section for now.

During saturday's game against the Mariners, Clemens announced his return to Baseball. He signed a minor league contact that would pay him an estimated $28 million for the remainder of the season. Clemens will turn 45 this season and has not pitched with New York since 2003.

By coming to the Yankees, Clemens has put an end to the drama that has circulated the league for weeks. The choice was narrowed down between Houston, Boston, and New York. It was also noted that Clemens wanted to return to "a contender" which would most likely eliminate the Astros. Therefore, Clemens had to make a choice. Go to the team that is currently in cruise control and could definitly use a fifth starter to round out a solid rotation. Or, go to the team that is struggling and desperatly needs help getting back on track again. Clemens chose the ladder.

The New Guy in Town

With the 110th selection in the 2007 NFL Draft, the New England Patriots select WR Randy Moss from the Oakland Raiders.

OK, so that's not what NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell really announced at this past weekend's draft, but in reality it's the fortunate truth.

Patriots gave nothing more than a fourth-round pick to receive Moss who wanted out of an organization filled with issues. Moss mentioned earlier last week that he would restructure his contract that would grant him an estimated $9 million 2007 salary if he could move to the right team. Moss's wish was granted and has now topped off an off-season that has been nothing more than genius for the Patriots.

The media has ripped this deal to shreds. I have heard everything from "Moss will tear apart the character and good morale of the New England locker room" to "Moss will quit on his team, again" into finally "Moss will be bring home a championship, and a Hall of Fame induction."

Let's relax for a second. What we are dealing with here is arguably the best wide out in the game catching balls from a future Hall-of-Famer in Tom Brady. That is the bottom line, at least in Bill Belichick and Scott Pioli's minds.


NFL Analysts and other members of the media have not only questioned Moss's character entering the Patriot system, but more importantly New England's change in philosophy this off-season by spending lots of money on veteran talent and drafting a first-round pick with a troubled past. An organization that has thrived on teamwork, unity, and all those bubbly attributes we learned as children playing little league and pee wee football. A philosophy which has generally focused on bringing late-round draft picks into the system and creating talent. A system that has won three Super Bowls in six years.

So how will Randy Moss fit into the Belichick system? Just ask Corey Dillon.

The troubled bad boy from Cincinnati was acquired into New England in 2004 for a second round draft pick to the Bengals. The goal was to improve a lack-luster running offense led by Antowain Smith in years prior, while the Bengals wanted to free salary space and remove the problematic attitude Dillon had created. The Patriots ended up winning the Super Bowl that year with Dillon rushing for 1600 yards and 13 TD's. The Bengals drafted S Madieu Williams with that pick, and he has been a nice addition to their defense.

At the time, many people wondered how Dillon would have reacted to the "clean cut" system. Players around the locker room during the 2004 season were delighted to see his change of attitude and mentality around the team. Dillon eventually became a great teammate and leader which is what Belichick is expecting of Moss and company.

Randy Moss has been criticized most of his career over game conducts and lack of effort during his tenures with Minnesota and Oakland. Moss has been scrutinized for walking off the field late in games, squirting water bottles at officials, and quitting on plays and routes. Despite that fact, he averaged 1300 yards and 12 TD's per season in Minnesota. Once he was moved to Oakland, his demeanor dropped even further along with his stats. In two seasons, Moss caught for 1,500 yards and 11 TD's. His two-year stats in Oakland failed in comparison to his numbers in 1998 and 2003 where caught for over 1,500 yards and 17 TD's in single seasons. It was painfully obvious Moss did not feel motivated to play ball in an organization with numerous problems and holes. Oakland went 6 - 26 during Moss's tenure. They have not won more than 5 games in a season since their Super Bowl run in 2002.

It's my firm belief that Moss has been misjudged, slightly. Yes, he is guilty of a few different accusations that relate to his character. But you have to look at the context of the teams, coaches, and systems he has played under. When he played for Denny Green he was a young and cocky talent making a name for himself. Green kept Moss under wraps better than any other coach. Not to mention he had a great mentor in Cris Carter. Mike Tice has been a coach known to have very little discipline over his players. And Al Davis created a catastrophic situation around Moss with weak talent, poor coaching, and an organization with no direction.

The bottom line here is that Moss has had enough of playing for weak or middle tier teams. He has clearly shown that he is a player who places effort into teams that have the level of competition to win games. Statistically, Moss's better years came during the seasons where the Vikings were championship contenders and Dante Culpepper was healthy (and an MVP candidate.) I'm not trying to prove that it is a quality attribute to have as a player, but for a winning organization such as the Pats, it's golden. Moss is extremely excited about his arrival to New England as he stated in a press conference on Monday: "I don’t think you all understand how excited I am to be a part of this organization. I think their record and what they’re about speaks massive volumes. I’m just very, very happy to find some happiness and getting back to what I love to do – that’s play football and going out there and compete.” If you believe actions speak louder than words, he has already restructured his contract from $9.75 million to $3 million. Moss claims that the Patriots will witness the old Randy Moss. At least that's what he said after being asked about his present below 4.40 40 yard dash time.

Tom Brady has gained a receiving core that is arguably better than any group Peyton Manning has ever thrown to in his career. Outside of Moss, Stallworth is a number one receiver on many teams and the combination of Caldwell and Wes Welker on the inside creates a top notch offense. Jabar Gaffney will be fighting for the fifth spot on the roster alongside new acquistion Kelley Washington. With Moss entering the picture the Patriots have solidified themselves a Super Bowl contender and Moss has cleared a path that may lead him to the Hall of Fame. The New England system has not only created talent over the years, but has controlled and re-invented egos. Moss now has a shining stage to prove that he is what he says: A winning competitor, and a great teammate.

Dice-K shuts down Ichiro in Fenway Debut. Hernandez shuts down Sox. 3 - 0

Regardless of whether or not Daisuke Matsuzaka will be worth the money it cost Boston to bring him in, he sure knew how to steal the attention of millions of fans around the world including the 36,000+ in attendance at Fenway on Wednesday night.

All eyes and camera lenses were focused on number 18 many minutes before the Red Sox would face off against the Mariners. From his warm-up tosses on the field, to nervously sitting and fidgeting on the bench, to then playing a second warm-up game of catch with Kevin Youkilis (I guess he couldn't wait), then finally to the mound to begin his Fenway legacy.

It also didn't help the situation that officials pushed back game time five minutes which prolonged everybody's anticipation. Fans in Boston were patiently awaiting the opening pitch that would finally end the agony of the off-season expectations and speculations that have been built around him since his signing on December 14th, 2006. And if that was not enough drama for you, his first hitter at Fenway would be his Japanese nemesis Ichiro Suzuki.

I suppose it would be only fair and justified to have these two Japanese prodigies face off in Dice-K’s home debut. Its great publicity and a great storyline. The Japanese media was spread out all over Fenway, just like Ichiro’s rookie debut in Seattle back in 2001. “Ichiro and Matsuzaka are the two biggest names in Japanese Baseball,” says Japanese Reporter Kaizo Kinero “There will not be a player like either of them in Japan over the next ten years.” The last time these two faced off in Japan was in 1999. Ichiro would strike out swinging and Matsuzaka was only 18.

The first pitch delivered from Matsuzaka was a curveball called for a strike. Nearly everyone in attendance at Fenway Park rose to their feet in celebration, hoping that it was a sign of great things to expect from the rookie. Ichiro would eventually line a 3-2 pitch back to the mound on a hop. Matsuzaka snatched the ball quickly to his left and threw out Ichiro ending their first match-up here in America.

The hype and excitement of Dice-K appearance would eventually be put on hold as Boston fans watched Mariners starter Felix Hernandez shut down the Sox batters one at a time. One day after the Sox posted a fourteen hit fourteen run performance against the Mariners in their home opener, Hernandez would eventually throw a one-hit shutout over nine innings, making him scoreless in seventeen innings pitched this season. Hernandez finished the game with six strikeouts and two walks on one hit. "He had everything going on tonight. He was just impossible," Boston's David Ortiz said.

Matsuzaka would only let up a sacrifice fly to Yuniesky Betancourt in the second inning and pair of RBI hits to Adrian Beltre and Jose Vidro in the fifth. He let up three runs on nine hits and 4 strikeouts in his Fenway Debut through seven innings. J.D. Drew would accrue the only hit for Boston with a single in the eighth inning.
The real Japanese championship bout for Dice-K did not end up against Ichiro, but against Mariner catcher Kenji Johjima. Kenji posted a .271 average against him in Japan and ended up two for three against Dice-K in last night’s game. Ichiro ended up hitless in the game striking out once.

After the game, the usually quiet Ichiro spoke to the press through an interpreter about his match-up with Dice-K "That was a moment that probably only Daisuke and I could have created. To be in that moment, I'm happy."

Matsuzaka spoke about his first pitch at Fenway "It wasn't easy to throw with the flashbulbs going off, but I'm glad I got a strike."

The Red Sox will finish their three game series today at 4:05. Tim Wakefield (0 – 1) will throw against Jarrod Washburn (0 – 0).

Beckett, Sox Blow Out Mariners in Fenway Opener 14 - 3

Josh Beckett needed only two runs of support from the Red Sox offense to secure him a victory in yesterday's Fenway Park season opener. Instead, he got 14 runs on 14 hits. The most runs scored in a Boston home opener since 1975.

Coming off a three-game series in Texas where the Sox averaged two runs per game on offense, Boston powered their way to a fourteen run-fourteen hit production against the Mariners on Tuesday. Thirteen of them in the first five innings. Sox scored four in the first inning including a 2-run ground rule double by CF Coco Crisp and a RBI sacrifice fly by Right fielder J.D. Drew. Following a three run second inning which included the game's only home run by Drew and a RBI-Double by Kevin Youkilis. The Sox went on to score six more runs between the third and firth innings. Jason Varitek also contributed with three hits and three RBI's in four plate appearances. "We pulled out the whupping sticks today," said starter Josh Beckett "They've been off for a while. It maybe affected their pitchers being able to throw strikes. You can't go through our order and walk guys. You're going to get burned."

Mariner's starting pitcher and 2006 World Series star Jeff Weaver was dismal in his first start of the 2007 season. Weaver was hammered for seven runs and seven hits with one strikeout on 70 pitches in the first two innings. Long relief pitcher Jake Woods came in to play the mopup role in the third and gave up three runs on four hits in the following two innings. The remainder of the Seattle bullpen featured relievers Brandon Morrow, Julio Mateo, Chris Reitsma, and closer J.J. Putz, giving up the other three runs on three hits.

As for Sox pitching, Josh Beckett pitched his second gem in as many games with eight strikeouts and one run in seven innings pitched. Reliever Brenden Donnelly was ejected in the eighth inning after sparking a verbal fight with outfielder Jose Guillen followed by hitting catcher Kenji Johjima. Donnelly and Guillen were formally teammates together in Anaheim during the 2005 season. It has been noted that the two ex-Angels have "Bad Blood" between them which attributed to Guillen's exit and trade to the Nationals in 2005. Donnelly struck out Guillen in the 8th inning of which Guillen expected to get hit. After the strikeout, Guillen didn't appreciate Donnelly's celebration and exchanged words while walking back to the dugout. The two were seperated by both benchs and Guillen was ejected. Donnelly, would then pitch an inside 0-2 fastball off Kenji Johjima's leg and be immediatly ejected with no argument from manager Terry Francona. Hideki Okajima would retire the remainder of the eighth and Timlin would pitch the ninth while giving up two runs.

The Seattle Mariners had the previous four days off due to a cancellation of the entire three game series against the Indians because of heavy snowfalls in Cleveland. Seattle manager Mike Hargrove attributes the loss due to too many days off. "Yeah, we played like we hadn't played in four days today. We pitched like it. We swung the bats like it. We played defense like it. We should be better tomorrow." says Hargrove. Terry Francona would also comment on the Mariners day off "They were put in a tough situation for the last four days. We had an advantage, and we took advantage. Hopefully that will work for a couple days."

Daisuke Matsuzaka will start today against the Mariners and will face off against Ichiro Suzuki for the first time since 1999 in Japan. Dice-K and Ichiro are the two biggest names in Japan and will be considered a major matchup overseas. Japanese reporter Kaizo Kinero said today on WSKO 790's morning show with Andy Gresh and Scott Zolak "There is no question this will be considered a major matchup over in Japan. Matzusaka and Ichiro are the two biggest icons in Japanese Baseball. There will be not anyone in the next ten years that is like them."

Game will be televised live on ESPN at 7:05 ET.

A-Rod Off to a Much Needed Start

Yankee's third basemen Alex Rodriguez has come off an off-season filled with publicity and speculation. Between his public comments of teammate Derek Jeter, his run-in with the press at his children's book signing, and contract talks about his upcoming extension option with the Yankees for 2008, Rodriguez has not had it easy.

Coming off of a dismal post-season (.071 BA, 4 SOs in 4 games) and a first round playoff exit for the second consecutive year, A-Rod was a nickname not in good graces with Yankee nation this winter. Rodriguez will earn $27 million this season making him the highest paid player in baseball; six million in front of teammate Jason Giambi.

Needless to say, the pressure dial has been turned up on A-Rod this spring. The expectations in Yankee nation are high and thus far Rodriguez has delivered. Throughout the first six games of the season Rodriguez has hit .360 with six homeruns and thirteen RBI's, the most homeruns hit in the first six games of Yankee history. The last of them being a game winning grand slam in the 9th against the Orioles, the second homerun of the game. Without a doubt this is the hottest start of his Alex's 13 year career and it could not have come at a better time.

The question that continues to surround A-Rod is his ability to perform in the clutch. Last season Rodriguez hit .237 with 4 HRs in 76 at bats in late and close game situations, not to mention his lackluster performance during the playoffs in 2005 and 2006. So far this season he has hit two homeruns and six RBI's in three late and close game situations including the walk-off grandslam on Saturday.

Rodriguez has tried to win over the hearts of New York fans for three years now and many people believe three years is long enough. Rodriguez won both the American League MVP and a Silver Slugger Award in 2005, yet he was scrutinized for his performance in the 2005 post-season. New York fans can acknowledge and appreciate A-Rod's yearly Regular Season numbers, but they have 27 million reasons why he should perform in the clutch more consistently. Then again, money grows on trees in YankeeLand.

The other question that must be answered by this season's end is A-Rod's future with the Yankees. Rodriguez may opt out of his contract in November and with the arrival of Lou Pinella in Chicago, Alex may want to revisit his relationship with his first former manager from Seattle. That is, if New York fans do not warm up to him to his liking. If Rodriguez performs at a high level this season(say above .300 with at least 45 HRs) and Yankee fans do not cheer for him more than recently, then expect A-Rod in a Cubs uniform next season. Therefore, my advice to Yankee nation: Cheer on your MVP third basemen next time you're at Yankee Stadium, or else.

Beckett shines in season debut against Royals

Maybe Red Sox fans could sleep better last night after watching Josh Beckett’s season debut against Kansas City as the Sox take an easy win from then Royals 7 – 1 in a very chilly Kauffman Stadium. Beckett went only five innings striking out five, walking four, and giving up two hits with one run from a sacrifice fly from C Jason Larue.

"Beckett had a high pitch count," Manager Terry Francona said. "Again, he made some pitches and he got us through five, and we thought that was plenty. Our bullpen did a great job. Snyder came in and put up some zeroes. We added on." Sox scored three runs in the first inning to give Josh Beckett some breathing room to start the game, when he exited in the sixth the score remained 3 – 1. Relievers Javier Lopez, Kyle Snyder, J.C. Romero, and Joel Pinero would finish out the game letting up one hit and striking out three.

The Sox would get off to a hot start in the first after a walk by Kansas City starter Odalis Perez to David Ortiz and a single by Manny Ramirez, J.D. Drew would bring in Ortiz on a RBI Single followed by a 2-RBI double by Mike Lowell. Kevin Youkilis would also contribute in the seventh inning with a 2-run homerun off Todd Wellemeyer to secure the lead for the Sox bullpen.

"Our bullpen did a great job. We swung the bats well," said third baseman Mike Lowell. "It's a good win. Hopefully we can win the series tomorrow and keep moving on." Lowell, who helped with his bat last night but not with his glove making two fielding errors and one throwing error for a career-high 3 fielding errors. J.D. Drew would bail out Lowell in the third after robbing Mike Sweeney of a line drive in Right Field by making a great catch that would have scored Mark Teahen and Mark Grudzielanek who reached base on back-to-back errors by Lowell.
The big question going into this game was of course starter Josh Beckett, who entered the game with higher expectations from Sox nation after his below par performance in 2006 (16 – 11 5.01 ERA). After much work in the off-season and development of his fastball and breaking ball, Beckett is ready to break out this year. In an interview with MLB reporter Ian Browne, Beckett said "If you look at my mechanics from last year to this year, I'm a lot slower, particularly out of the windup. I think going slower at the beginning and not rushing through your delivery, it helps me just throw the ball late. It's just like a golf swing -- your power is the last three feet of your golf swing. Same thing with pitching. The last foot and a half of my arm slot is what dictates how hard I'm going to throw the ball and where I'm going to throw it." Beckett came out this spring and pitched much like his old, younger self with a 3 – 1 record, 3.14 ERA and a 9.1 K/9IP average. He has gained much more command of his fastball, changeup, and his curve during this off-season. You can expect more of the same from Beckett over the course of the season.

As for Japanese sensation Daisuke Matsuzaka , he will make his major league debut today at 2:10 in Kansas City against young RHP Zack Greinke.