There was a battle of stars tonight on the diamond…only problem for the home team is that both stars came from the New York Yankees. Alex Rodriguez has been plauged for years of having the title as a “choke artist” in the playoffs, but has truly shown that he is capable of providing offense for an entire team. A-Rod is 6 for 16, with 3 homeruns and 5 RBI’s in the ALCS and has basically sealed every game the Yankees have won. It seems as if C.C. Sabathia has had to prove time and time again that he is worth the money that the Yankees paid for him and tonight, he added another chapter to his stellar year. Sabathia pitched 8 innings, allowed 5 hits, gave up 1 run and had 5 strikeouts to put the Yankees up 3-1 in the ALCS to a struggling Angels team. If you ask me, the two superstars in the playoffs have gone hand in hand. Sabathia is there to bail the team out of a jam, or to pitch a big game on short rest when one is needed, while Rodriguez steps up to the plate and with one swing of the bat provides the offense for his team. If all things go well, A-Rod and C.C. will lead the Yankees into the 2009 World Series and the quest for their 27th championship. Judging by the results of the past playoff games this year, it is important the Rodriguez and Sabathia both stay as hot as they have been, one can only think where the team would be without them.

Eastern Conference:

Atlantic: Pittsburgh Penguins

Northeast: Boston Bruins

Southeast: Washington Capitals

* If anything, the Eastern Conference is much easier to decide the division winners. It is hard not to choose the Penguins to win the Atlantic being the reigning and defending Stanley Cup Champs. Boston has a stacked team on offense even without Phil Kessel, a Norris winning defensemen in Zdeno Chara and a Vezina winner with Tim Thomas. The Southwest division over the past years has been a close call at the end of the season, but Alexander Ovechkin has become a true leader and will take the Cappies to the top of the division easily.

Western Conference:

Central: Chicago Blackhawks

Northwest: Calgary Flames

Pacific: San Jose Sharks

* The years of Red Wing domination have come to an end in the Central division with Chicago grabbing hold of the title this year. The wings have lost a lot of options on offense and defense, one factor being Marian Hossa, who coincidentally went to the Hawks. Chicago has solid defense, offense and goaltending and the making of a cup-contending team. The Calgary Flames seem to be the best choice this season (it was a toss-up between the Canucks, but I am huge Jarome Iginla fan) in the Northwest as long as goaltender Mikka Kiprusoff and Dion Phaneuf re-emerge as stars of the Flames. With the addition of Dany Heatley on the Sharks and solid goaltending from Evgeni Nabokov, San Jose seems poised to take the division, now lets hope they don’t choke in the playoffs.

Eastern Conference Champions: Boston Bruins

Western Conference Champions: Chicago Blackhawks

* There is no doubt that the Bruins are a cup-contender, especially after the effort last season. The Penguins will put up a fight in the Eastern Conference finals, but the Bruins have one of the best defenses in the league behind Chara and Thomas. In my eyes, defense wins championships and the Bruins can do it. The Blackhawks are the favorite in the west and arguably had the best off-season acquiring Marian Hossa. As long as the goaltending holds up, the Hawks have the scoring to reach the Stanley Cup finals.

Stanley Cup Champions: Chicago Blackhawks

* The Chicago Blackhawks have every element a team needs to win the Stanley Cup and in 2009, the Hawks will be able to accomplish this feat and raise the cup above their heads. If they aren’t able to, can we blame Marian Hossa?

Here is just some quick predictions of who will win the most prominent awards at the end of the 2009 NHL season:

MVP: Alexander Ovechkin

Vezina: Evgeni Nabokov

Norris: Mike Green

Rookie: Victor Hedman

Selke: Mike Richards

Coach: Joel Quenneville

Here are my picks:

Pats over Falcons

Jets over Titans

Packers over Rams

Eagles over Chiefs

Niners over Vikings

Ravens over Browns

Redskins over Lions

Giants over Bucs

Texans over Jaguars

Bears over Seahawks

Saints over Bills

Steelers over Bengals

Chargers over Dolphins

Broncos over Raiders

Colts over Cardinals

Cowboys over Panthers

“The Great One” called it quits on Thursday, resigning as head coach of the Phoenix Coyotes. I say it’s a smart move for Gretzky who coached a second-rate team that not even the city of Phoenix wanted to see play. If I lived in the Arizona area the only positive I would get from going to a Coyote’s game would be to see one of the best hockey players behind the bench. Tickets for the game have been lowered to a meer 15$, a price I wish Ranger tickets would drop down to. (Prices actually increased this season) It might not be long before the Coyotes have to re-locate as the battle between ownership is still going on. One thing remains, if Wayne Gretzky doesn’t wanna be part of the team, I think it’s time to move on.

http://sports.espn.go.com/nhl/news/story?id=4499904 (<– Link)

Carolina vs. Atlanta

Matt Ryan and the Atlanta offense will put the Panthers down to start the season 2-0.

Minnesota vs. Detroit

The Detriot defense is not going to be able to contain Adrian Peterson.

Cincinnati vs. Green Bay

Aaron Rodgers showed that he is a big game quarterback last sunday night for the Packers and will throw all over the Bengals defense.

Houston vs. Tennessee

The Titans will be able to recover from a week 1 overtime loss against the Steelers last Thursday to defeat the Texans, who start another season with two straight loses.

Oakland vs. Kansas City

This game depends on if Matt Cassel is able to play for the Chiefs. If he plays, his health will be in question, but KC will be able to pull out the win. If he doesn’t, then it’s a toss-up.

New England vs. New York

I am pulling for the Jets and Mark Sanchez in this one, as I can’t stand seeing Tom Brady win. But the Pats are stacked on both sides of the ball and will be able to beat the Jets.

New Orleans vs. Philadelphia

Drew Brees threw for over 350 yards last week and 6 touchdowns and once again, Brees will be able to air the ball out against the Eagles defense.

St. Louis vs. Washington

Washington showed some strong points against the Giants last week and the Rams having nothing going for them, once again another rough season.

Arizona vs. Jacksonville

The Jaguars are another team that are in the re-building process, while the Cardinals are trying to reach the Superbowl for the second straight year. Watch as the Cards rough up the Jags this weekend.

Tampa Bay vs. Buffalo

Many thought that the Bills would be able to defeat the Pats on Monday Night Football, but gave up a late touchdown to give up the game. The Bucs won’t be able to handle the Bills offense cruising to a week 2 victory.

Seattle vs. San Franciso

This is game is toss-up as the Niners offense depends on the running game of Frank Gore, while the Seahawks can have a stellar offense when Matt Hasselback is on his game. I gave this one to San Fran though.

Pittsburgh vs. Chicago

The Bears suffered a tough week 1 loss against the Packers and the pain doesn’t stop there, as the Steelers roll into town and completely dominate the Bears.

Batlimore vs. San Diego

This is a going to be a great matchup as a tough Ravens defense meets a strong and stable San Diego offense. The running and passing game of the Chargers will be too much for the Ravens.

Cleveland vs. Denver

Denver was able to pull out a miraculous win last week against the Bengals and face a much easier task this week against a shaky Cleveland Browns team.

New York vs. Dallas

The Giants against the Cowboys…there isn’t much more to say as this is easily the game of the week. The Giants offense will attempt to get on track, but the defense will have to be able to contain Tony Romo and the Dallas Cowboys. There has been a lot of trash talk this week and it is known that both teams have no sympathy for each other. This is the home-opener for the Cowboys, but the Giants will be able to spoil the party as Eli shows why he is a top-tier quarterback along with Brandon Jacobs and a New York solid defense.

Indianapolis vs. Miami (Monday Night Football)

No doubt about this one, Peyton Manning is still around, therefore the Colts will win this one.

Enjoy the games!

Just a heads up to all New York Islander fans out there: The season is not starting off well. If many of you haven’t heard since the preseason games of the Islanders aren’t brodcasting on television, three players have already been injured through the second preseason game. Two nights ago Doug Weight and Frans Nielsen both left the game with injuries and last night marked a night that forward Kyle Okposo will never forget or actually he probably might. While coming down center ice, Okposo tries to split two defenders of the Calgary Flames and break through the middle, not realizing that one of those defensemen was Dion Phaneuf, a 6’3” giant of a hockey player. Okposo is bumped from behind and takes a look down at the puck, and next thing you know, Okposo is drilled by Phaneuf and slammed to the ice. After watching the play several times, it looked like a clean hit with the shoulder. Phaneuf didn’t leave his feet only after the hit and by then there was already fights starting across the ice. This is probably one of the biggest hits I have ever seen and rightfully so, dished out by one of the biggest guys in hockey. On skates, Phaneuf must be at least 6’6”. After the hit, Okposo is taken off on a stretcher, but reports have said that he doesn’t have anything broken, probably just a concussion. But rule one of hockey is always keep your head up, a lesson that Kyle Okposo learned last night after being drilled by Dion Phaneuf.

Check out the clip:

There was a toss-up for the game of the week, as the Broncos/Bengals ended in a fashion that not many have seen. A last minute hail mary that led to a defensive tip to Brandon Stokley scoring the game-winning touchdown. The Bills/Patriots game could also rank as one of the best games of Week 1, as Tom Brady seemed in his old form after returning from his knee injury where he missed 15 games last season. Brady was able to lead the Patriots to a game-winning touchdown late in the 4th quarter and finish the comeback to stun Buffalo. The ending of the Broncos game was truly amazing, but everyone thought the Bills would squeak out a win against the heavily favored Pats, but they fought back to take the season-opener. My pick for game of the week: New England vs. Buffalo.

This is the Stokley catch that gave the Broncos the win:

After this weekend of opening the season, Adrian Peterson proved why he is the best running-back in the league and possibly the best player. AP rushed for 18o yards and tore up the Cleveland defense, ripping Cleveland defenders off him like it’s his job. Peterson scored 3 TD’s and broke a few tackles for a 64 yard rush that led to a Minnesota Vikings win. The Vikings take on the Detroit Lions this weekend who still look for there first win in over a year and I’m sure AP will abuse them as he did the Browns. Peterson is projected to have over 1,500 yards this season and will have to protect Brett Favre’s passing game as it is very inconsistent. When the Vikes can’t manage to throw the ball through the air, they could just hand it off to AP who will make people pay. My player of the week: Minnesota Viking’s Running Back, Adrian Peterson.

Check out this clip of AP’s 64-Yard Rush:

When making the decision for player of the week, I was originally going to choose Drew Brees, quarterback from the New Orleans Saints who threw for 358 yards and 6 touchdowns. The only gripe with selecting Brees was that they played the Lions, who as everyone knows, needs help at every position out on the field. (We will witness this next week, when Adrian Peterson goes toe-to-toe with a second rate Lions D) I think that if a low-tier quarterback played against that defense, he would also tear them up. However, I don’t want to take away from Brees’ performance, he showed that he is one of the best quarterbacks and plays every game to the fullest extent. Sunday was one of the best performances of his career and a milestone for any QB.

Week Two of the NFL proves to have interesting matchups with many division-rivals facing off. The Patriots visit New York to take on the Jets who find confidence in rookie quarterback Matt Sanchez after his week 1 win against the Houston Texans. The Pats defense will be a true test for Sanchez who was able to air the ball out against a under-par Texans defense.

David J. Phillip / Associated Press

Another game that many are focusing on is one in which the Pittsburgh Steelers will march into Soldier Field to take on the Chicago Bears. Quarterback Jay Cutler will have to prove that the trade from the Broncos will be one in which Chicago doesn’t regret. Cutler did not look good last week, throwing 4 interceptions to the Green Bay defense, one on the last drive of the game in which the Bears could have won the game. It seems as if Cutler is still unsure of his offense, but will all of the controversy surrounding him, Cutler better learn the system quick if he wishes to provide any reassurance for Bears fans. The Steelers are coming off an OT victory over the Titans that opened up the season last Thursday and this game seems like it will be one in which the defense will win.

However, the game of the week that I am anticipating is when the New York Giants take on the Dallas Cowboys, making this game the first game at the new Cowboy’s Stadium. Maybe I am biased in this manner as the Giants are my team and Dallas is my most hated team, but this game proves to be one that will be crucial for both teams. Each time these teams meet, sparks fly and games are made to be remembered. The Giants offense will see if they can get back on track after a struggling week against the Washington Redskins in which they were not able to run or pass the ball, but were still able to claim the victory on defense. The Cowboys coming off a strong week 1 win against the Tampa Bay Bucs want to prove to the NFC East and the entire league that Tony Romo is a top-tier quarterback, who can play with second-rate receivers. Romo was able to throw for over 353 yards last week, but the Giants defense is one of the best and this is one test for Romo that will seem critical. My game of the week pick: New York vs. Dallas

Bill Kostroun / Associated Press

I will have my picks for this weekend’s game on Saturday. Check back!

It is an annual tradition in sports that the champions of each of the four major sports meet the current President of the United States. This year would be no different with President Obama congratulating the Pittsburgh Penguins on their Stanley Cup victory this past season. Obama joked about being a Chicago Blackhawks fan, but said that he would still root for the Pens (yea okay). After getting to the microphone Obama opened the speech, “First of all, I’m sorry to keep you guys waiting — I have all these things I’ve got to do as President. This is by far the most fun thing that I’m doing today. So welcome to the White House. We are extraordinarily pleased to have the world champion Pittsburgh Penguins with their third Stanley Cup.” The President pointed out the accomplishments of co-owner Mario Lemieux and coach Byslma along with the youngest captain to ever win the “cup”, Sidney Crosby. (You can imagine how painful it was to say that. I also thought it was funny on how you couldn’t see Crosby during the Presidents’ speech.) Obama not only singled out Crosby, but also gave his congrats to Evgeni Malkin on his spectacular season. Out of all the players in the Atlantic Division, Malkin in the only one that I like and have respect for. After the congratulations from Obama, I like Malkin even more. When the President called out his name, Malkin raises his hand in shock while his jaw drops to the ground. Malkin was not done as he pulled out his cell phone and began several attempts to take a picture of Obama making the speech. Malkin proves that he is not only skillful on the ice, but can be a comedian off of it. After the ceremony was over, Obama received a Penguins jersey with the #44 on it,  OBAMA stitched on the back and a “C” on the front. Hopefully, he will be putting that jersey away in the Presidential archives or use it as a rag to clean the oval office.

Take a look here (click the URL):

http://penguins.nhl.tv/team/console.jsp?catid=19&id=46110

Source:

http://ca.sports.yahoo.com/nhl/blog/puck_daddy/post/The-Penguins-meet-Obama-Puck-Daddy-inside-White;_ylt=Avti1ql4Z4hTAWnXPgZuOLJ7vLYF?urn=nhl,188869

It is impossible to tell when the Brett Favre saga will actually be over and the 39-year old quarterback will stop all of the selfishness that he has thrown into the NFL. Many know that last year, Favre retired saying that he had nothing left to give to the league. No big deal, players retire when they get hurt and when they start to age, and the quarterback position is truly one of the most strenuous.

But after Favre officially retired, two weeks later he began to reconsider coming back, but the Green Bay Packers, his former team, refused to release him. Once again, no big deal, it seems typical now that players retire then seem to have a change of heart after and want to come back and play, believing they made the wrong choice in the off-season. Favre was eventually granted the release and the New York Jets signed him to a one-year deal, perfect for Favre, New York, the biggest media outlet in all of sports. Favre couldn’t have asked for anything more, come back to the game and play in the arguably the biggest sports city in America. However, Favre was unable to produce, the Jets missed the playoffs, finished the season 1-4 where Favre threw for 2 touchdowns and 9 interceptions. Many of the Jets criticized Favre for his play, believing that he cost the team their loses and after the season, he retired again calling it the “real deal” this time as he had a torn bicep tendon.

Except this wasn’t the “real deal” for Brett Favre and was only his plan. To enter the spotlight in New York, produce with a second-rate team and lead them to a championship, being placed among the greats in the league. However, he was unable to accomplish this and after the season had ended, Favre had second thoughts again after having surgery on the torn muscle and wanted to play with the Minnesota Vikings and head coach Brad Childress, a long-time friend. At the end of July, Favre informed the Vikings that he would not come out of retirement, calling it the hardest decision he has ever had to make. Anyone could have guessed that less than a month later, Favre reversed his decision and signs a deal with the Vikings. The sports world was buzzing with all of the controversy Favre was creating but in the end, Favre ended up being the winner. He would play on a team as the starting quarterback, not even having to fight for his spot in the position and he would be on a team with their biggest rival being the Packers, Favre’s old team that didn’t want him.

When all was said to be over, on the morning of the start of the NFL season, Favre told the media that the New York Jets training staff and head staff knew of his injury and did not put him on the weekly injury list, a violation of league policy. My question is this, why does Favre even have to bring up what the Jets did? He was playing with the torn tendon and didn’t complain about doing so. He blamed his poor playing abilities on the hurt muscle and instead of sitting out, after all was said and the team moved on, he calls out the staff on their mishaps.  I wonder what is going on inside the head of  Brett Favre, does he wake up in the morning, pick up the paper and realize that he is nowhere to be found, therefore he has to do something that can attract attention? Many have become enraged with Favre’s actions involving the situation with the Jets, but who can blame them. So the training staff knew that you were injured, YOU knew you were injured and you continued to play because YOU wanted to and now you blame the training staff? Something is seriously wrong with the situation at hand. Being on a new team, once again Favre’s selfishness takes over as he craves the attention from the media. This is just one of the many additions to the Brett Favre saga. No one will know where it will end or even how it can get much worse. With the start of th NFL season, the odds are that there will be more controversy to add to the timeline of Favre throughout the months.

When Favre retired last year, I had the most respect for the guy that any fan could have. He gave all that he could out on the field and sacrificed his body for the sake of winning. However, after last year and this year the antics of Favre have tarnished his reputation in my book. His goal, to seek out the most attention possible to draw it off others. If the game is not focused on him, than he has failed at what he is attempting to accomplish. This season, once again, all eyes are on Favre and how the Vikings will do during the season, the fan reaction when they travel to Green Bay and the overall ability of Favre. One can only imagine what will happen in the off-season next year. It is not hard to predict that Favre will probably retire again, breaking his two-year contract with Minnesota and then sign with another team, not having to fight for his starting position being “Brett Favre” and lead the team to a lackluster season. Favre truly is the definition of selfish and over the past few years, that definition has seemed to stick with him well, as his actions and words only make that statement more and more fitting for him.

Brett Favre Timeline:

http://www.usatoday.com/sports/football/nfl/2009-08-18-brett-favre-timeline_N.htm

Flash forward 13 years later and many believe that Jeter is one of the all-time greats to wear the pinstripes. With over 2000 games played in, a solid career batting average of .317, over 425 doubles, 1000 runs-batted-in, the most hits among any shortstop to play the game with 2713, and a list of awards makes Jeter a legend to many, including myself. Derek Jeter plays the game as pure as any individual to wear a baseball glove and does it better than the majority who have.

Here is the list that few will be able to top:

• 10-time AL All-Star (1998–2002, 2004, 2006–2009)
• 4-time NY Yankees Player of the Year (1998–2000, 2006)
• 3-time AL Gold Glove Award (SS) (2004-06)
• 2-time Baseball America 1st-Team Major League All-Star (SS) (1999, 2004)
• 3-time AL Silver Slugger (SS) (2006-08)
• AL Rookie of the Year (1996)
• Babe Ruth Award (2000)
• All-Star Game Most Valuable Player (2000)
• World Series Most Valuable Player (2000)
• The Sporting News “Good Guy in Sports” Award (2002)
• Hank Aaron Award (2006)

Growing up through the fights to make the playoffs, the comeback wins, the records being broken, and the championships won…it is hard to imagine any major league player surpassing Jeter’s reputation, skill and overall value to his team. He has remained loyal to his fans and has grown into a legend over the past decade. Derek Jeter, “The Captain”, Mr. November, what ever his name be called, Jeter is of a rare-breed of baseball players that only a few get to witness and live through.

Sources: http://sports.espn.go.com/mlb/players/profile?playerId=3246

Going into the home-run derby, I had selected Pujols to take the contest easily. Entering the derby, Pujols was leading the league in RBI’s, home-runs and batting average, so it was hard to bet against him. After the first round and tie-breaker (swing-off), it wasn’t too early to tell that Pujols didn’t have his swing tonight and sometimes when you try to hit home-runs, it makes it even harder to go yard. The Cardinals first-basemen is big in clutch situations, when the game is on the line and his team needs a run and tonight, it was all fun and games, something that Albert may not be accustomed to. But I do not want to take anything away from Prince Fielder. His swing is just beautiful to watch and when he puts all of his weight into his bat (all 268 pounds), the baseball flies into the air, into places a hitter can’t even imagine. The 503 foot shot that Fielder jacked was easily the longest home-run of the night and had viewers in awe, as it took a few seconds for the ball to drop out of the sky. After taking the crown, Fielder explained his method to hitting the long-ball.  “I’m not quite sure about my mechanics. I just know I have to swing hard. In high school a lot of people told me to swing easier and everything, but I just don’t know how to do that.” After tonight it was evident that Fielder knows how to swing hard, as the balls that he crushed out of Busch Stadium were ripping at the seams.

After tonight’s UFC 100 event, I can see why this sport is evolving the way that it is. Every match had something different involved within it, whether it be TKO’s, submissions or the match lasting for the judges decision. One thing is clear, that UFC is the sport of the future and I have never anticipated an event like this before.

After all was said and done, Brock Lesnar stole the spotlight with his in the ring antics and complete beatdown of Frank Mir. Lesnar handled Mir like a piece of play-doh, throwing him around the octagon and completely pounding him down. Mir talked so much trash before the event, but Brock was able to shut him up using his weight and unbearable strength. Lesnar refused to touch glove with Mir, only giving more to this rivalry that already had so much. After the 1st round, Mir smiled with his bloody face, but before the 2nd round could end, Mir couldn’t even stand up. Lesnar mounted him, used his ground and pound and destroyed Mir, avenging his only MMA loss and retaining the heavyweight title.

Talking with Joe Rogan after the match, Lesnar made comments about the sponsors, Mir’s trash talk and doing some provocative things to his wife when he got home. This is all good and well for the sport, but I think Brock has to realize that this isn’t the WWE and that you can’t just run your mouth whenever you want. Dana White may have a serious talk with Lesnar about his in the ring antics, but White can’t be too disappointed, Lesnar was the main attraction for this event and made the UFC millions.

The other fights UFC 100 were definitely intense including the domination by George St. Pierre over Thiago Alves to keep the Welterweight belt in his possession and the TKO of Michael Bisping by Dan Henderson. GSP showed why he may be the best pound-for-pound fighter out there, as Alves was supposedly his toughest challenge. GSP controlled the fight throughout every round, scoring 10 takedowns, looking the same as he did when he entered the octagon and took the unanimous decision after the fifth and final round.

The Henderson knockout in my opinion was something that completely shocked me. Many knew that Hendo has a lot of power in his right hand, but he is known for his patience and technicality. This match showed another side of Henderson as he chased after Bisping throughout both rounds, landing punch after punch, eventually knocking the Brit out cold and giving him a solid elbow to take “The Count” down for good.

* Even after UFC 100, I still question some things.

Will GSP move up to a higher weight class and take on a new variety of challengers to prove he is the best fighter in UFC? Odds are he will eventually take on Anderson Silva and other middleweights, as it would make the UFC millions and cement GSP’s place as one of the greats. Let’s see if the injury that St. Pierre received tonight on his groin has any effect on future fights.

What’s next for Frank Mir? After all of the trash talking he did about Lesnar, only to get his ass handed to him, it is hard to tell. He will look to challenge Lesnar again, talk some more and eventually get his ass kicked again if he can’t find Brock’s weakness.

What’s next for Brock? He completely dominated Mir, he has lost a lot of respect from UFC fans and fighters and is becoming a blockbuster fighter only after 5 MMA fights. This guy could be the next UFC legend, with the strength of two cement blocks and the charisma that many wish they had, the future is bright for Lesnar. However, my take is that Lesnar is a striking fighter, that although he has superhuman strength, that is all that he has. We have seen that once a fighter is able to gain position on him and make a move, they will have him tapping. (As did Mir in their last fight) There is no skill to Lesnar’s technique, except straight up brute force. But you can’t blame the guy, he is breaking fighters in half, one match at a time. If there is a Lesnar v. Mir III, after UFC 100, there is no doubt that Lesnar is a strong favorite. One that a person would bet their life savings on.

Can any event after this, really exceed the expectations and hype that this one produced? UFC 100 was one of the greatest events in UFC histoy. Any of the three main card matches could have been headlining fights. Dana White has made this sport into one that millions have become embraced to and with more events like UFC 100, there is no place but up for the Ultimate Fighting Championship.

If you want to check the fights out, go to http://www.mma-core.com

Take a look:

Murphy has been seriously criticized over his fielding, not only on first base, but also in the outfield. This play may make up for all of those errors that Murphy and the Mets committed, but it is doubtful. The Mets have had so much trouble fielding that ESPN’s Sportscenter dedicated their “Not Top 10″ just for the Mets. (<– CLICK ME) Amazing that one week Murphy can toss the ball behind his back and another he can’t hold onto the ball while running to first or is flopping in the outfield. What will happen next to the Metropolitans? One can only imagine.

Brock Lesnar defends his belt against in a rematch against Frank Mir, while George St. Pierre looks to prove that he is a contender for the best pound-for-pound fighter out there, going up against Thiago Alves for the Welterweight belt.

The coaches of this past Ultimate Fighter season will be squaring up as Dan Henderson and Michael Bisping go at it, after months of trash-talking between the American and United Kingdom coaches.

This UFC event contends to be one of the best yet and hopefully it will not disappoint.

Saturday July 11, 2009 – UFC 100 – Las Vegas Nevada – Editor Picks

Brock Lesnar (3-1) vs. Frank Mir (13-3)

It is amazing that Lesnar even has the belt after only competing in 4 fights, but he completely dominated Randy Couture in UFC 91 and the rematch agains Frank Mir is important to Lesnar and the heavyweight division. Last time Lesnar fought Mir (UFC 81), he was worn down in the first round and Mir was able to submit Lesnar 90 seconds into the first round with a kneebar. Lesnar says that he has gotten quicker and stronger over the upcoming months, but if Mir is able to use his standing game against Brock like he did at UFC 81 and break him down, Lesnar may not last long and UFC 100, could look much like the first match against the two heavyweights. If Lesnar is able to pull out a victory against Mir, Lesnar vs. Mir III, will be a money-maker.

Mir over Lesnar (Third Round) – Submission

Mir has too much confidence after UFC 81 where he dominated Lesnar and he is the underdog again going into Saturday’s fight. Lesnar has to use his standing game to all extents, because if he is put on the ground, then Mir will having him tapping out even before anyone can blink.

George St. Pierre (18-2) vs. Thiago Alves (16-3)

GSP comes into Saturday’s fight on a 5 match winning streak and it seems as if nothing can stop him. Over the streak, St. Pierre has defeated one of the best fighters in BJ Penn, Matt Serra and Matt Hughes increasing his record to 18 wins and 2 loses. They say a champion is built not on his title win, but on him defending that title and GSP has certainly done that, making UFC 100 his fourth title defense against Thiago Alves. GSP’s ground game is one that should not be tested with his Muay-Thai submissions and grapples and after the match against BJ Penn, St. Pierre has proved that his standing game is just as good. (Penn being one of the best standing fighters around with his quick jab) Thiago Alves comes into this title fight trying to prove that he can take down one of the best fighters in GSP. Out of his 16 wins, Alves was able to only submit one opponent, but knockout ten fighters. He has shown that his standing game is very effective, but it is still to be determined if it can compare to St. Pierre’s attack. The best thing for Alves to do would be to keep GSP to the standing game as that is Thiago’s forte. Shifting GSP off of his gameplan is going to be important for Alves and if Pierre controls the match from the start, then Alves is going to have some problems.

St. Pierre over Alves (First Round) – TKO

GSP is one of the best fighters in UFC and this is the first real test for Alves, but he can’t match up against St. Pierre’s powerful standing game. Oh and I never bet against GSP.

Dan Henderson (24-7) vs. Michael Bisping (17-1)

This is the match that I am looking forward to the most although it may not mean much, bragging rights are up for grabs. The Ultimate Fighter season was full of smack-talk and animosity between the two coaches and this match sets out to prove more than many believe. Michael “The Count” Bisping is full of UK guts and glory and has an astonishing 17-1 record, his only loss coming against Rashad Evans at UFC 78. Bisping hasn’t really faced a tough challenge since he joined the UFC, while “Hendo” is a seasoned veteran in the UFC and PRIDE with 24 wins and 7 loses. Henderson’s slug-fest attack and wrestling style allowed him to defeat prominent fighters such as Rich Franklin, Vitor Belfort and Wanderlei Silva. His loses came against Anderson Silva, Quentin Jackson and Antonio Nogueira, which Henderson should not be ashamed of as those fighters are top of their weight-class. Henderson likes to draw out matches, pace himself, take the fight slow and let the opponent make the mistake, going to a judge’s decision in 7 of his last 9 bouts. Bisping loves the standing game and will do whatever it takes to TKO Henderson as fast as he can. I am pulling for Henderson since I couldn’t stand Bisping during TUF, but if Hendo doesn’t keep the match at his own pace, then Bisping could come away with the victory early in the fight with his powerful punches.

Bisping over Henderson (Second Round) – TKO

I don’t think Henderson can drag the match out to a decision with all the power that Bisping will be throwing, although I will be rooting for Hendo to take “The Count” down.

Don’t Miss UFC 100, This Saturday July 11, 2009 at 10PM EST!!

The American League home-run contestants will be named later on, but my guess is that Evan Longoria, Justin Morneau, Mark Teixeira and Josh Hamilton will grace the lineup of the AL team competing for home-run glory. Even without knowing the lineup of the AL team, Pujols is still a favorite in the slugging contest, but as we witnessed last year with Josh Hamilton hitting 28 in the first round and 3 in the final round, ultimatley losing to Twins’ First Basemen, Justin Morneau…anything can happen.

Two days ago, Major League Baseball announced the rosters for the 2009 All-Star game that is being hosted in St.Louis on July 14. The selection is based on fan voting, which can be a serious issue at times. (Which the NHL faced last season, with the hosting team, the Montreal Canadiens receiving an enormous amount of votes for their players).  The MLB was close to having a situation with Los Angeles Dodger, Manny Ramirez starting in the outfield of the All-Star game even after being suspended 50-games for violation MLB substance abuse policy. Eventually, the votes for Manny dropped and he was excluded from the summer classic. Here is the roster for the National and American League teams.

American League

Starters

C     Joe Mauer, MIN
1B     Mark Teixeira, NYY
2B     Dustin Pedroia, BOS
SS     Derek Jeter, NYY
3B     Evan Longoria, TB
OF     Jason Bay, BOS
OF     Ichiro Suzuki, SEA
OF     Josh Hamilton, TEX

Pitchers

Andrew Bailey, OAK
Josh Beckett, BOS
Mark Buehrle, CWS
Brian Fuentes, LAA
Zack Greinke, KC
Roy Halladay, TOR
Felix Hernandez, SEA
Edwin Jackson, DET
Joe Nathan, MIN
Jonathan Papelbon, BOS
Mariano Rivera, NYY
Justin Verlander, DET
Tim Wakefield, BOS

Reserves

C     Victor Martinez, CLE
1B     Justin Morneau, MIN
1B     Kevin Youkilis, BOS
2B     Aaron Hill, TOR
SS     Jason Bartlett, TB
3B     Michael Young, TEX
OF     Carl Crawford, TB
OF     Curtis Granderson, DET
OF     Torii Hunter, LAA
OF     Adam Jones, BAL
OF     Ben Zobrist, TB

National League

Starters

C     Yadier Molina, STL
1B     Albert Pujols, STL
2B     Chase Utley, PHI
SS     Hanley Ramirez, FLA
3B     David Wright, NYM
OF     Carlos Beltran, NYM
OF     Ryan Braun, MIL
OF     Raul Ibanez, PHI

Pitchers

Heath Bell, SD
Chad Billingsley, LAD
Jonathan Broxton, LAD
Matt Cain, SF
Francisco Cordero, CIN
Ryan Franklin, STL
Dan Haren, ARI
Josh Johnson, FLA
Ted Lilly, CHC
Tim Lincecum, SF
Jason Marquis, COL
Francisco Rodriguez, NYM
Johan Santana, NYM

Reserves

C     Brian McCann, ATL
1B     Prince Fielder, MIL
1B     Adrian Gonzalez, SD
1B     Ryan Howard, PHI
2B     Orlando Hudson, LAD
2B     Freddy Sanchez, PIT
SS     Miguel Tejada, HOU
3B     Ryan Zimmerman, WSH
OF     Brad Hawpe, COL
OF     Hunter Pence, HOU
OF     Justin Upton, ARI

Many may not think that the All-Star game has any importance, but the winning team has home-field advantage in the World Series and the American League has dominated the summer classic, being undefeated since 1996. Comparing the rosters of this years teams, it is obvious that the AL has the stronger roster and is a definite favorite to take the All-Star game for the 13th consecutive season.

Sports Illustrated reporter Ted Keith writes, “The AL roster is very well balanced, which could come in handy in an NL ballpark that will see numerous double-switches and pinch-hitting moves. Virtually every AL reserve is capable of handling another position. Indians catcher Victor Martinez has played almost as many games at first base this season (40) as he has at catcher (41), where he will be the only AL reserve.” This could prove useful in a game that results in extra-innings, as did last years game. A team has to be able to move players around the diamond and outfield and use their bench efficiently. Keith also states that star power remains in the AL East, where 16 spots are taken up by players from one of the strongest leagues in baseball.

cite: http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/2009/writers/ted_keith/07/05/all.star.react/?eref=T1

The Marian Hossa curse continues and thankfully it is staying in the West, which gives some teams hope. It seems like every team this guy signs with will make it to the Stanley Cup Finals, only to be denied actually lifting the cup. Hossa was traded to the Pens in 2008, who lost to the Wings in the Cup finals, then signed with the Wings and lost game 7 of the 2009 Stanley Cup Finals against the Penguins! This guy can’t catch a break! The Hawks believe that Hossa is one small part of the re-building process and signed Hossa for 12-years, but who knows if he will last that long, given his luck. Hossa is an outstanding offensive weapons and paired up with players such as Patrick Kane, Jonathan Toews and Patrick Sharp, the Blackhawks have a powerhouse team. (Along with a star-studded defensive team) Let’s hope that Hossa can break the curse in the windy city…as if they haven’t had enough of a hard time.

Rating on Player: A+ (Hossa is a threat from anywhere on the ice)

Rating on Contract: D (I hope Hossa is able to waive his no-trade clause before the decade is up)

Total Rating: A

Marian Hossa was the top free-agent out there and the Hawks were able to chop down the competition and sign him to a long, long, long term deal.

Gaborik Signs a 5-Year Deal with New York

Fans knew that a move was coming when GM Glen Sather traded Scott Gomez and his hefty 6-year contract to Montreal for forward and New York native Chris Higgins. The thought was that the Rangers would pursue Dany Heatley (who still hasn’t chosen a team), Mike Cammaleri or Martin Havlat. Gaborik was in the mix, but many did not believe that he would be putting on a Ranger jersey next season. With the cross-town rival Islanders making key moves in the draft, it’s time the Rangers made some noise.  Don’t get me wrong, think Gaborik is an offensive machine when he stays healthy throughout the season. Gaborik hasn’t played a full season since the 2002-2003 run and only played 17 games last season notching 23 points in the short season in which the Wild missed the playoffs. However, the few times “Gabbo” did play over 75 games, he was able score 42 goals and have 41 assists in 2006-2007 and had 67 points in 2002.

Once again the Rangers take another risk with signing Gaborik to a long-term deal that eats up CAP space that was just opened with the trade of Gomez. Barring that Gaborik stays healthy, anything is possible. Last year I witnessed Gaborik scoring 5 goals against the Rangers at the Garden and was amazed at his talent. No doubt, Gaborik is as fragile as a porcelain figure, but given he plays roughly the entire season, he can help the Rangers where they had problems last year, scoring goals.

Rating on player: A- (minus for the injuries)

Rating on contract: B (5 years is a long time for a player that does not consistently play 81 games. Still, it is too early to tell)

Total Score: B+

Gaborik brings some serious offense to the Rangers where they need it the most. Let’s just hope he can play a full season for the first time in 8 seasons.