Favre A Pro Bowler?? Are You Kidding?

Well, I have some extra time now with Christmas vacation approaching, so I'll try to post a blog every few days for everyone.
Brett Favre is a Pro Bowler. Unreal. There is no way you can justify this award this year unless you doing it as a Lifetime Achievement Award. He should have been beaten out by Chad Pennington for sure and probably Matt Cassel as well. Of course I'm bitter about the whole thing as Favre screwed the Packers in my opinion. This entire season has been rough, and one of the issues has to be the circus that was Green Bay for about 2 months this past summer. I know Rodgers has made some poor decsions in the 2 minute drill, but I'm really glad he's our guy. The franchise is set up with a really good QB for years to come, and we're not in a funk like the post-era Broncos with Elway or Dolphins with Marino.
I'll debate anyone on this, but letting go of Brett Favre was the right move. They're going to get a high draft pick and hopefully sign some free agents and they'll be BACK next year. Ted Thompson better not sit on the that big ass pool of money he has to sign players. Get out there and get busy. Dream scenario would be Albert Haynseworth and Jason Taylor.

Busy Times at the Bullis House!

With basketball starting once again this year and with the new addition to our family, I haven't had much time to blog unfortunately. Also, there just haven't been that many things that have interested me to blog about. I'll be trying to get on here on a more regular basis soon to get the discussion rolling once again on sports.
A few things of interest are, who's going to win the Heisman? My pick is the favorite, Sam Bradford. Although Tim Tebow has been lights out the last month or so.
College basketball is in full swing and I couldn't be happier! My beloved Tarheels of North Carolina are absolutely LOADED. They've already won the Maui Classic quite easily, and took the Spartans of Michigan State behind the woodshed last night in the ACC/Big Ten Challenge. Not really much of a challenge as the ACC has now won 10 straight! At least, the Badgers held up their end of the bargain in a very entertaining win Monday night over Virginia Tech on the road. Bucky isn't flashy once again, but I'm sure they will make plenty of noise by the time March rolls around. I really like their freshman, and Keaton Nankivial of Madison Memorial is in the starting line up, which is great to see.
The Packers, well, it hasn't been a great season. However, the play of Aaron Rodgers has been promising, and he's going to be good for a long time. I may not agree with Ted Thompson on everything, but he's got himself a stud in Rodgers. I'm just glad we don't have to do what some teams do and shuffle the QB spot for years after a legend to find the successor to the throne. The defense is not great. The whole reason is due to the D-Line and getting absolutely no pressure on the QB. All in all, the NFC North sucks and will be knocked out early in the playoffs. With the sub-par season, I'm already looking forward to the April draft. We make an entire weekend out of the draft in Madison. It's quite a good time.
All in all, I'll make more of an effort to get on here and share my thoughts. Please share yours with me as well. Let me know what's on your mind. But until next time............. Who's Your Matty?

Brewers get Macha and Randolph

I guess Willie Randolph did know something when he turned down the Washington Nationals a few weeks back. Maybe he thought he still had a chance to land the skipper's job in Milwaukee. Well he didn't get that, but the Brewers did hire him to be the bench coach for manager Ken Macha. I think this is a great hire to get them both! However, they are still going to have to make up for the losses of Sabathia and Sheets provided neither re-sign. I don't think the Brewers 5 year $100 million to CC is going to lure him back. They need to be on the aggressive and go out and get some pitching to help Gallardo, Parra, Bush and Suppan. Cappy should be coming back as well, but you never know what you're going to get coming off that surgery.
On a side note, it appears the Cubs are in the running to get Jake Peavy. If that happens, it's lights out for the NL Central as with Zambrano, Harden and Peavy as the top 3, they'd be tough!!!

Macha To Be New Skipper

According to two sources on ESPN.COM, Ken Macha will be named later today as the new Brewers manager. Not my first choice (Brenly), but Macha is a solid guy. He won multiple AL West Division Titles while in Oakland. I'll give the guy a chance. He needs to bring discipline, and new hitting coach! Anything is better than Yost, so this is a plus in my mind. Like Sveum, think he's a good guy, but they couldn't hire him as they needed someone from the outside coming in to rewrite the ship.

1st Rounder to Play?

Former 1st round draft pick Justin Harrell is as healthy as he's been in the past year and is set to be activated from the PUP list sometime soon. It may even be for the upcoming week vs. the Titans.
Some people have already labeled him a bust. I'm not willing to go there yet. I think that before you can be a bust, you have to be healthy and play. He quite frankly hasn't played enough. He did play sparingly last year and recorded 16 tackles. I think if he can stay healthy, and stay in that D-Line rotation, this could be a solid addition for the Packers defense. Obviously stopping the run has been an issue thus far, and getting a 6'4" 310 lb. speciman like Harrell has to help. He's got a huge upside, but has to prove he can stay healthy and give the Packers some solid play.

Brett Gets Booed

The Jets fans seem to be getting restless with the ol' gunslinger. On Sunday, he was booed on numberous occasions after some horrible passes that were picked by the Chiefs. One was returned for a touchdown. The lowly Chiefs D was picking Brett all day! Favre now leads the NFL in interceptions. Wierd!!

Off to the Hospital

I know it's all sports on here, but I thought I'd let you all know, we're heading in to the hospital this morning as Kristine is going to get induced. The whole process begins around 8:00. I'll keep you posted and try to post some pictures later tonight when I come home. So wierd thinking Braeden is going to be a big brother soon. Talk to you soon!

You Make Melvin's Decision

If it is true that it's down to Bob Brenly, Willie Randolph and Ken Macha, who do you want and why? My vote would be 1-Brenly, 2-Randolph and 3-Macha. However, I have a strange feeling the Melvin is in love with Macha as he was offered it the first time around before we got Yost.

Favre Guilty of Calling Lions?

A story broke today by foxsports.com and Jay Glazer stating the Brett called the Lions prior to Week #2 of the NFL season trying to give them any help possible to beat the Packers. You know that if he called Detroit, he certainly tried to help Minnesota as well. If this comes to be true at all, i'm officially done with this guy and hope nobody in Wisconsin ever cheers for this clown again. And that includes when they retire his jersey. You're either with us or against us as I've previously said, this asshole is clearly against the Packers. Good riddance Brett!
Look for more on this story in the coming days.

Sveum Will Not Return

Just in, the Brewers will look elsewhere for managerial job. I feel bad for Sveum as he was devastated I guess, but I think it's a good move. They need someone to come in and give them experience and discipline. Jim Skaalen, the hitting coach is out as well, thank the freaking lord. That guy should have been gone long before Ned!

Sveum or someone else?

Rumor has it GM Doug Melvin is considering a "short list" of candidates for the managerial position in Milwaukee. I like Dale Sveum, but I wasn't that impressed with his moves or lack there of in his 16 games at the helm. I hated Mike Cameron in the leadoff spot, and hated even worse that he wouldn't give anyone a chance in RF over Corey Hart. Now I think Hart is a decent player, but down the stretch you all know what he was like.
Evidently the "short list" includes former Oakland A's manager Ken Macha, who was Melvin's original choice, but he took Oakland and we hired Ned. Also, is former D-back World Series winning manager Bob Brenly (MY CHOICE!) and former Yankee, Ranger and current ESPN analyst Buck Showalter. I also heard former Met manger and now managing in Japan, Bobby Valentine. I say if this is Melvin's list, it's a no brainer. Go with Brenly and get some good experience and try to lead this roster in the right direction.
What do you guys think?

Favre vs. Rodgers

Stats through week #6
Favre 87-124 935 yards 12 TD 4 Int 110.8 rating
Rodgers 103-163 1274 yards 9 TD 4 Int 95.5 rating (3 rushing TD's)

Packers are 3-3 and the Jets are 3-2. Who would you rather have at QB? With the rash of injuries on defense, would the Packers have a better record at this point with Brett?

Bucky is Sucky!

What is going on? These aren't the Badgers we've been used to watching the past 15 years since Barry Alvarez put them on the map! I'm usually the supporter of my teams coaches to a fault, but this is getting ridiculous. What is Bielema doing? Allan Evridge may not be able to start for UWSP. I haven't been to a game this year, but several of my friends have been and they've cited that the crowd is getting restless. Especially last night! Penn State took the Badgers behind the woodshed and beat their ass. I believe they have to make a change at QB. There is no chance to make a bowl game if they keep running Evridge out there. No Bowl Game?!?!? That would be the first time in a long time! And lastly, my friend Rutta has been calling for this from the start, but JOHN CLAY needs more carries. This kid is unreal and wasn't the biggest recruit in Wisconsin for nothing. He was courted by ALL the big schools, and he can't get reps behind PJ Hill? PJ's done very well for UW, but the bottom line is he's just not as talented as Mr. Clay. Every series Clay gets, something good happens. The only two TD drives vs. Ohio State were John Clay drives!
Joe Paterno said it best in the paper. He said, "I think they let Michigan off the hook and I think they did the same last week with Ohio State. We just hope not to get on the hook." Well, Joe I think you're on to something, and you weren't even close to nibbling on the hook last night.

Fantasy Football Is A Crap Shoot

Well, I feel the need to address the fantasy football season thus far. Fantasy Football is part knowledge, and part flat ass luck. And the part that is luck is about 90% and knowledge is 10%. It's a bit like poker, but you can have more control in poker. You can't chase a gut shot straight all the time as you'll go broke. You also can't draft bums early or you'll go broke too. However, as in poker, sometimes these clowns just get there. You just have to smile and know that in the long run, it'll all work out.
I had a pretty darn good draft. I don't care what anyone says, it was good. I prepared for this draft more than any other, and it worked out pretty much to the way I wanted. Guys were reaching for suspect players and I let certain guys fall into my lap that I was high on. And not just me, but the so called experts were too. Hell, I got the #1 point scorer in our league right now (Jay Cutler) in the 8th round as some of these "good" teams in my league took Philip Rivers, Derek Anderson, Matt Hasselbeck, Carson Palmer and Eli "3rd round" Manning before Mr. Cutler. I saw more information before this draft than anyone in our league. I did over 50 Mock Drafts online and I knew where certain guys would go. I was prepared more than anyone in my league. There was one other guy (Rutta, who's 1-4) who probably knew as much as I going in. It boils down to this. You can try to control your destiny by studying up and giving yourself a leg up, but sometimes (and more in fantasy football than poker), it's just plain dumb luck.
Here are some interesting stats I've found for players that have played against me this year. The averages are for the games they've played against other teams.
Week #1 (Lost 133 - 80.5)

• Donovan McNabb 38 Points - Avg. 18.6/game
• Randy Moss 23 Points - Avg. 18.1/game
• Thomas Jones 22.5 Points - Avg. 6.2/game
• Calvin Johnson 18.5 Points - Avg. 10/game

Week #2 (Lost 121.5 - 101)

• Greg Jennings 24 Points - Avg. 19.1/game
• Marion Barber 25 Points - Avg. 15.5/game
• Tony Scheffler 21 Points - Avg. 5.25/game

Week #3 (Lost 123-115)

• Carson Palmer 21 Points - Avg. 7.6/game
• Michael Turner 33 Points - Avg. 18.1/game
• Julius Jones 25.5 Points - Avg. 9.75/game

Week #4 (Lost 101-98)

• Kurt Warner 26 Points -Avg. 23/game
• Kevin Walter 23 Points - Avg. 6.2/game
• Adrian Peterson 22 Points - Avg. 14.5/game

Week #5 (Lost 103-92)

• Hines Ward 18.5 Points - Avg. 9.1/game
• Jason Witten 17 Points - Avg. 14.7/game
• Larry Fitzgerald 20.5 - Avg. 19.75/game

In all honesty, I got whooped the first two weeks. That's fine. I accept it. But these numbers don't lie. Every one of these guys has scored more vs. me than the average. And in some cases (Kevin Walter, Tony Scheffler, Julius Jones, Hines Ward, Carson Palmer and Thomas Jones) it isn't even close! But there is no way with my team, I should be 5-0. My core starters are:

QB - Jay Cuter RB - Joseph Addai RB - Ryan Grant WR - Plaxico Burress WR - TJ Housmanzadeh TE - Kellen Winslow WR/RB - Dwayne Bowe, Torry Holt or Jonathan Stewart

Don't get me wrong, I love fantasy football, but in some cases, you can do nothing to guard against dumb luck. I should be 3-2 or at worst 2-3, but I'm not. Oh well, I'll still keep plugging along. Besides, the #1 and #2 seeds better hope I don't squeak into the playoffs!

My Playoff Experience

Well, it was quite a day yesterday for me. I got about five hours of sleep Saturday night in anticipation for my first ever playoff experience (in person) involving the Brewers. Well, I must admit, I did stay up a tad late making sure the Cubs completed their colossal collapse vs. the Dodgers.
The day started about 5:15 a.m. I got up and ready pretty quickly. I headed to McDonalds only to find it closed. This should have been my first clue that Sunday was going to be disappointing. I was on HWY 39 by 6:00 a.m. sharp and headed to Madison to meet my friends. We met and were off about 8:15 from Madtown. We met the last of our group near the State Park and were off to Miller Park. We started to tailgate about 9:30 and had our first bloody gone by 10:00. Nothing like communion on Sunday morning at Miller Park. After some refreshments and food we headed in to the park. Once in, it was great. It was loud and full of excitement. Every time a Brewer came out to stretch in pre-game, the crowd cheered loudly. We all had THUNDERSTICKS and they were very thunderous. Once the game began, it was time to win this one and get the ball to CC. Well, from the first batter, I knew this was going to be a bad day. Jimmy Rollins led off with a bomb to right and that was just the start. After a Ryan Braun hit in the 1st, the bats were once again quiet. Then in the 3rd, the Phillies had a runner on 3rd with two outs. I said right away, "Put Howard on." and they did exactly that. I however, then said, "A three-run bomb would be killer right here." The words had barely left my mouth when Pat Burrell crushed our dreams of another game. You could have heard a pin drop in Miller Park when he delivered the blow. The back to back didn't help either. I was up in the bathroom by the time Jayson Werth delivered the next shot however. The Brewers mounted a few runs, but just didn't have the firepower to come back in this one. I new this was going to be a bad day. We thought about heading for the exits, but one in our group said no. He wanted to stay to the end to cheer them as they left the field. I thought that was a good idea and was happy we did as the crowd gave them a great ovation even though all in the stadium were disappointed as they watched the Phillies celebrate on our field.
Once back in Madison, I found a dead battery in my car as the headlights were left on all day. Jumped and ready to go, I found a half flat tire. As I drove about 25 m.p.h. into Sun Prairie to get air, I thought back to that McDonalds being closed. I new this was going to be a bad day. All in all it was a great day. I got to witness the first playoff series ever in Miller Park. And besides, I could have stayed home and watched the Packers.
I just hope I get to experience another day like this sometime soon. As a car near us in the stadium parking lot was pulling away and we exchanged goodbyes, one of the guys said to me, "See you in 26 years." God I hope not.

So You're Saying There's A Chance?

Well, it appears all of our hopes are resting on the arm of Jeff Suppan tomorrow. I just hope Supe can get through 5 innnings with the lead. If were in position, we should be fine. The Brewers bullpen surprisingly has been great in the NLDS with the exception of Torres tonight.
I will be on hand for the game tomorrow, so let's go Brewers.

On another note, the Badgers lost their 2nd game in a row that they shouldn't have lost. Sat in the prevent defense in the last drive and let OSU march right down the field. Then Evridge throws a terrible pass to seal the loss. Very average QB play and an average defense = a very below average bowl game. With those two qualities they ought to run John Clay about 40 times a night. The two drives he was in on were the two drives that UW scored touchdowns. I can't believe he doesn't get more touches.

Stick a Fork In Them

They're done. There is absolutely no way they can win this series. If they continue to hit like this, they can't win. Their pitching can't keep them in every game. One of the announcers put it best when he said, "CC's had their backs the entire season, it's about time the hitters bail him out once." Yeah, good one. These guys can't hit period. I'm sorry, but Sveum doesn't get a free pass anymore either. What the hell are you continually starting Corey Hart for? Give Tony Gwynn Jr. a chance. I know that Kapler would be starting for sure if he wasn't hurt.
As for this series, I believe it's over. They'd have to win twice in Milwaukee to have CC go again on 3 days rest in a ballpark where it looks like the Brewers can't beat a little league team. I hope they can miraculously pull one out Saturday so I can say I at least went to a playoff game in my life.

Life Of Reilly: Cubs Buzzkill

Check this out. It's great! Cubs are losing tonight too!
"Hey Chicago, what do you say, the Cubs are going to choke today!"
http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3619714

Frustrating, But Yet Okay

That was a frustrating Brewer game today. The media is making Cole Hamels sound like the 2nd coming. He was good, but he didn't even outpitch the Brewers today. The Brewers and Hamels had identical lines of four hits given up. The Brewers did walk six to Hamels four, but the game came down to bad defense once again.

I watch the replay several times and it came down to a number of things on that bunt. Bill Hall bobbled the ball or he was going to 2nd to get the lead runner. After he bobbled, he went to first and threw a ball to first that first appeared fine, but I think it was low. Now, obviously Rickie Weeks dropped the damn thing and was given the error. This was horrible. This is just inexcuseable for a professional in the playoffs to drop that ball. After that, Chase Utley's double should have been caught, no doubt about it. I rewound the tivo and Mike Cameron takes a really bad first step and angle and causes himself to drop it. Now, he is normally very good in CF, but that was a bad play as well.

All in all, it is frustrating, but okay, as tomorrow we have the best pitcher in baseball going to get us a split on the road, which is all you can ask for in the playoffs. Let's hope Rickie has a nice seat to watch this one tomorrow though. I think he would have today, but Durham is obviously struggling with the hamstring issue. Otherwise, he probably would have scored easily on the double by Braun in the 9th. I know his run doesn't mean a lot there and you can't make an out at home, but he still should have scored standing up. Durham in the lineup means no Bildo Hall batting 2nd either. Thank goodness! Down 0-1, but a long way to go!

Go Dodgers.

Weeks Error Puts Brewers in Hole

Rickie Weeks' error in the 3rd inning just killed the Brewers. You can play bad defense and win in the postseason. The way Cole Hamels is dominating early, it appears the Brewers could be in for a long day.

The Time Has Arrived!!!

Let's Go Brewers!!! Lots of great coverage on www.jsonline.com/ today. Check it out! Will be on here later!

This Miller Is For You.............Bud

As Bud Selig sat in front of his TV on Sunday watching that dramatic ending to the Brewer game, tears filled his eyes. For a man who fought so hard for Miller Park, revenue sharing and the wild card, this had to be a fulfilling day.
He told others that for baseball to remain in Milwaukee, they needed a new park. A park that was state of the art, with suites, a roof, and real grass. CHECK
He told owners and teams that they needed some sort of sharing of revenue to keep the playing field even. So that teams like the Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs and Mets couldn't just outspend everyone. CHECK
And finally, he told everyone that he was going to begin this crazy little thing called the Wild Card. It was going to be given to the team with the best record that didn't win their division. They would also go to three divisions. This was the thing of three of these that took the most criticism. It was going to ruin baseball he was told. It was ludicrous, a joke, how could he ruin such a pure game. CHECK
Years later, after getting these three great things passed, it all came to fruition. The WILD CARD going down to the last day, in the park he built, with HIS BREWERS, going against the big market Mets so to speak. What joy he must have felt Sunday in his suburban Milwaukee home with all these things happening.
So I say this to Mr. Selig. Thank you for doing all you've done for baseball and for my team. I know he takes a lot of unjust heat for one mishap called the All-Star snafu. But all in all, Bud has been a really good commissioner for a really long time. And if you're a Brewer fan, he's been a great commissioner.

Ned

Think that the Brewers had to fire Ned when they did, if not sooner. I don't think they make this run with him still the skipper. However, you have to feel for the guy who helped get this team moving in the right direction. I know he wasn't my favorite manager in the world, but you still feel for the guy in this situation.
That being said, what are your thoughts on the postseason. Can the Brewers get other quality starting pitching besides Sabathia?
Who starts game one? Gallardo with McClung behind him like the last time?

26 Years of Waiting Are Over!!!!!

Seriously? They weathered that horrible losing spell and are going to make the playoffs. This is a day that I never thought would come. I've waited a long time to feel the joy that the Brewers provided today. Thankfully they rescued all of our emotions after the Badgers and Packers collapses this weekend.

The Brewers will travel to Philadelphia to face the Phillies and the Cubs will host the Dodgers. It looks like the Brewers will try to get some revenge after that four game debacle in Philly leading to Ned's firing.

Back on Top

Rickie Weeks delivers the big blow with a three run jack in the 7th!

Well, we've been here before. The Brewers once again lead the wild card race. They've led this thing all summer having the BEST record in baseball from June 1-Sept 1. It's time to finish this thing off. Hopefully Sheets will have his A+ stuff tomorrow and they can guarantee a tie with a win. With CC able to go on Sunday if need be, I like their chances. It would be great to win tomorrow and have the Mets lose and they can rest CC and get him ready for game 1 of the NLDS! How great would that be?

On a side note, Soto hurt again, Soriano playing horrible left field. Maybe Lou Dou should rest some more of those clowns. Choke Cubs Choke! Choke Cubs Choke!

Cubs Should Be There - 2008 Payroll

1	New York Yankees	$209,081,579
2	Detroit Tigers	$138,685,197
3	New York Mets	$138,293,378
4	Boston Red Sox	$133,440,037
5	Chicago White Sox	$121,152,667
6	Los Angeles Angels of Anaheim	$119,216,333
7	Chicago Cubs	$118,595,833
8	Los Angeles Dodgers	$118,536,038

New Logos for the Cubbies??

Do You Believe in Magic???

Well, what can we say, the seem to be energized and playing much better! Two walk off wins in three days can do that. They need to springboard this into the weekend series with the losers from the North Side. They need to win at least 2 of 3 from the hated Cubs. Could have been one up after tonight, if Pinella hadn't screwed the Brewers by sitting 4 of his top 5 players. What a joke. You know they don't want Milwaukee to make the playoffs. If the Brewers get in, they have to play a hot LA team. If the Brewers do not, the Cubs will most likely play the struggling Mets. To hell with the Cubs!

Choke Cubs Choke, Choke Cubs Choke, Not tomorrow, not today, the Cubs will choke EVERYDAY!

Gagne - Classy Guy

I know he's been brutal at times this year, and most of us have bashed him more than a few times, but Eric Gagne is a classy guy. He's been nominated for the Roberto Clemente which is given annually to a player selected for his character and charitable contributions to his community. Only one Brewer has ever won that and it was Cecil Cooper in 1983.
Well about a month ago he and Jeff Suppan each donated $20,000 to help renovations of a little league field in Milwaukee, and now tonight, he's purchased 5000 tickets for over $200,000 and gave them away online. I know some of you will say, well, he makes over $10 million, what's that money matter. Well, it does matter, as he doesn't have to do that type of stuff. Especially when he's going to be here one year, and one year only unless he signs for peanuts next year.
So, my hat is off to Eric Gagne for being a great contributor to Milwaukee.

Fielder to be dealt this offseason?

Interesting rumor was brought to my attention on a possible trade. (Thanks Jim).

It wouldn't be worth reporting this rumor if it wasn't coming from such a reputable source, but ESPN's Peter Gammons is reporting that the Brewers are interested in trading Prince Fielder, JJ Hardy and another player for the Giants' 23-year old, starting pitcher Matt Cain. This report has been mentioned before, but Gammons brought it up again during a recent broadcast.

Cain was 8-13 this year with a 3.80 ERA. I would hope that this deal didn't happen. I wouldn't mind if the Brewers deal Prince as I don't think he'll re-sign there, but I think they'd be giving up way too much in this deal.
I'm also not surprised to see Hardy's name floating out there as the Brewers have their next shortstop in waiting in Alcides Escobar. He's a 21 year old kid with an amazing glove and great speed. Here are this stats from AA Huntsville this year. http://web.minorleaguebaseball.com/milb/stats/stats.jsp?n=Alcides%20Escobar&pos=SS&sid=milb&t=p_pbp&pid=444876
Scouts do consider him a year away however, so I'd be suprised if Hardy wasn't the opening day SS for the Crew next year.
Let me know what you think about this trade or another possible situations regarding Prince or any other players. Go CREW!

Gallardo to start on Thursday!

That's great news for the Brewers if he's anything close to his normal pre-injury self! Say we get through tonight with CC and tomorrow with Gallardo. After that, it's going to be a crap shoot. Probably Suppan Friday vs. the Cubs even though his ERA is over 10.00 in September, then Bush, then CC again? I guess it's looking pretty slim about Sheets starting another game. Nice career in Milwaukee Ben. Buh Bye!

One down, five to go..........

With the pitching rotation in shambles due to Ben Sheets injury and Parra and Suppan not being able to get out anyone, CC Sabathia will start on short rest again tomorrow night vs. the Pirates. This would also set up him being able to go again on short rest the last game of the season if they would need him.
What do you think? Is this a good move? I wonder what this rotation is going to look like throughout these last five games. Yikes!
CC, then who? Gallardo is active, but probably will only be available for a couple innings Dave Sveum said.
Go Cubs Go. Go Cubs Go!

Worst Owner in Sports Today?

I'd like to hear input on this one. I know my buddy Face Card Timmy will weigh in on this.
I think that the worst owner in sports today is definitely Al Davis. Hands down! He's made some of the poorest decisions in the last few years. He used to be a brilliant decision maker who helped the Raiders get better all the time by his decisions. Now, he makes terrible decisions. He gives Javon Walker $16 million in guaranteed money, plus the remainder of his contract. He however wants to fire Lane Kiffin, who's done a decent job in my mind, for whatever reason. The reason he hasn't is because he owes Kiffin over $3 million for this year and next year and he doesn't want to eat that money. This guy needs to sell if the Raiders ever want to return to prominence in the NFL.
I was pretty excited to run into him twice last year in Appleton and Green Bay however. He is a legend! He even gave us a wave on Sunday before the Packer/Raider game last year. The only reason he did is Face Card Timmy had his T. Brown #81 on that day! Tim even got a Justin Fargas used game glove after the game. He should sell it on ebay. He'd get at least $3 or $4 for it.

Keep Hope Alive!

Well, the Cubs held serve like we needed. The Brewers after this collasal collapse, could still find themselves in the postseason if they can salvage these last five games. Don't give up yet, keep the hope alive! Here are the pitching matchups for the next three days. Go Cubs Go, Go Cubs Go! It'll be a tough win tomorrow for the Cubs going up against Santana, and coming off clinching everything tonight. The Brewers just need to sweep the Pirates and have the Cubs win one more game!
Cubs/Mets Series
Sep 23, 2008 CHC (Marshall) @ NYM (Santana)
Sep 24, 2008 CHC (Zambrano) @ NYM (Perez)
Sep 25, 2008 CHC (Harden) @ NYM (Martinez)

Brewers/Pirates Series
Sep 23, 2008 PIT (Karstens) @ MIL (Bush)
Sep 24, 2008 PIT (Maholm) @ MIL (Sheets)
Sep 25, 2008 PIT (Duke) @ MIL (Sabathia)

On a side note, but very exciting news is:
Brewers, Timber Rattlers sign 4-year deal
By Tom Haudricourt - Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
As I reported on this blog yesterday, the Brewers officially announced today they have signed a four-year player development contract, through the 2012 season, with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers of the Class A Midwest League.
"We are eager and looking for this to be a long term relationship with the Wisconsin Timber Rattlers and are excited to have a minor league affiliate closer to home," said Brewers general manager Doug Melvin, who took part in the news conference in Appleton.
"The premier facilities and Brewers fan base in Appleton combined with the proximity to Milwaukee provides a great opportunity for us, and it gives our players an excellent and competitive environment to further their development."

Al Harris Could Be Out For The Season

Green Bay Packers cornerback Al Harris was undergoing medical tests Monday amid a report he might have ruptured his spleen in Sunday's loss to the Dallas Cowboys.

Packers defensive backs coach Kurt Schottenheimer told the Journal Sentinel he didn't know Harris' status, but he did say the loss of Harris would have a major impact on the team.
"We just hope for the best for Al," Schottenheimer told the newspaper. "He brings such a spirit to the team, the way he plays. If you give him a job, you know that job is going to be taken care of and you can go to the next challenge. He brings such a winning performance to you all the time. I just hope he'll be all right."
Harris could be facing a road similar to Chris Simms. Simms ruptured his spleen in a game against the Carolina Panthers in 2006 and had an emergency procedure to have it removed. He missed the rest of the season and returned in 2007, but was inactive for the first five games before being placed on injured reserve.

This would really hurt the Packers if he's out for the year.

Boo isms

After he holed a 25-foot putt off the back of the 14th green for a 2-up lead, then hit a bunker shot to 2 feet on the next hole. Asked where he would rank that shot among the top 10 of his career, Weekley replied, "I reckon No. 9. I done had eight hole-in-ones."

On Saturday, Weekley said this about the adrenaline surging through him in this competition: "I feel like a dog that somebody done stuck a needle to and it juiced me up like I've been running around a greyhound track chasing one of them bunnies."

Want to smile? Watch these clips!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YuqTE8xwhow

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6_tMOE4-tKc

http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/columns/story?columnist=forde_pat&id=3599811&sportCat=golf&lpos=spotlight&lid=tab1pos1

Go Cubs?

If the Brewers have any shot, I think the Cubs need to win on Monday night vs. the Mets. Then it's only a one game lead with 6 to play. Anything is then possible. Brewers rotation is set up to go: Bush, Sheets, Sabathia, Suppan, McClung. If they can be within one and sweep the Pirates, they could be in business going into the final weekend of the year.
I know, I know, I'm probably setting myself up for a let down, but I just can't give up on this thing yet.
What did Kevin Garnett scream in the air after the Finals....... "Anything is Possible!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!"

Postgame Thoughts

A lot of what I said at halftime is true I believe. They just didn't play very well in many aspects tonight, but I thought the play calling left a lot to be desired. Last year when they had a pretty good offense, Grant was featured. He needs to be that way again. I know he's getting back to 100% with the hamstring, but they really need to use him more.
I hope we see more of him next week at Tampa. Thoughts?

Packers-Cowboys Halftime Thoughts

Well, if the Packers don't run the ball more in the 2nd half, they aren't going to win this game. They have 35 rushing yards to Dallas' 149. Dallas has dominated the time of possession throughout the half, and is going to eventually wear the Packers defense down. I thought there were just too many pass plays called early on. Grant looked good the first 4-5 carries (minus the fumble), so keep giving him the ball. I know I have fantasy football interest in this as well, but seriously. They have to dominate the ball and keep that potent offense off the field, or this game is going to be a double digit win for the Cowboys. Any thoughts?

USA!

The Cup is back in America! The good ol USA prevails 16 1/2 to 11 1/2. Great day for golf. I also didn't waste one second watching the Brewers and they won! Mets lost. So you're saying there's a chance??

Boo Weekley

I'm a huge Tiger fan. However, I'm completely won over by Boo Weekley. I've watched him in the past, and he has this quality you just can't dislike. He's small town, an admitted redneck, and a lot of fun to watch. If you've seen him at all in this Ryder Cup, you've probably been entertained like I have. This guy is classic. He's had some great quotes through his short stint on the PGA Tour but yesterday's, after his Ryder Cup win, has to be the best.
After he holed a 25-foot putt off the back of the 14th green for a 2-up lead, then hit a bunker shot to 2 feet on the next hole. Asked where he would rank that shot among the top 10 of his career, Weekley replied, "I reckon No. 9. I done had eight hole-in-ones."

Week #3 NFL Picks

Last week was a tough week to pick as there were many tough matchups. However, this week should be easier, as there are some pretty easy games to pick. I think. We'll see if these winners help me stay atop the DCE Pick Pool.
New England over Miami
NY Giants over Cincinnati
Buffalo over Oakland
Tennesse over Houston
Seattle over St. Louis
Atlanta over Kansas City
Indy over Jacksonville
San Diego over NY Jets (1-2 Brett)
Denver over New Orleans
Chicago over Tampa Bay
San Francisco over Detroit
Dallas over Green Bay (I hope I'm wrong)
http://sports.espn.go.com/broadband/video/videopage?videoId=3597373&categoryId=2459789
Philly over Pittsburgh
Baltimore over Cleveland
Minnesota over Carolina
Washington over Arizona

For Fantasy Football. First two weeks have been tough. This is the week I look to come out of it! Ryan Grant and Jospeh Addai have been killing me! It's time for these two to start producing! Look for it today. Grant is supposed to be good to go. Also, look for my sleeper Michael Bush from Oakland to get the bulk of the work with Justin Fargas and Darren "Run DMC" McFadden bothered by a turf toe. I'm contemplating starting him over Grant, but don't know if I can pull the trigger on that one or not. Look for my QB, Jay Cutler to continue to lead all of fantasty football in points scored with a big game today against a banged up New Orleans secondary.

Thank God for the Ryder Cup

With no Badger game today, and no Packer game until late tomorrow, thank god for the Ryder Cup. Because of this great event, I didn't have to sit and watch the Brewers give away another game. Unearned runs given up by CC becuase of a Prince Fielder error. The runs were scored on a bloop single by a pitcher. Nice job boys.
Wisconsin's Steve Stricker just made a huge putt on 18 to halve his match with partner Ben Curtis. Curtis hasn't played well at all. He's made one birdie in 33 holes. I never did like that clown.
The Americans are guaranteed the lead going into tomorrow's singles. Two matches still on the course.

CC on Short Rest!!

What a brilliant idea Dale!! I wonder why Ned never figured that out? Still two back with 8 to play. Need some sort of miracle at this point.

Ryder Cup - Day 1

Whoa, I guess they don't need Tiger. For the 1st time in years, the Americans are the hunter and not the hunted. Usually Tiger, Phil and the boys are prohibitive favorites. However, this time the roles have changed. They had a really good day 1, taking a 5 1/2 to 2 1/2 lead, but it could have even been a larger lead! A couple missed opportunities by the Americans or it could have been 6 1/2 to 1 1/2.
They are also off to a decent start today leading two matches and the Euro's leading two. If they both hold up, the Americans will be up 3 points yet going into the afternoon. If they can get to Sunday with any sort of lead, they should be okay. The US Team usually does really well in singles play on Sunday. Let's hope they continue that so they can bring home the Ryder Cup for the first time in 8 years.

Wisconsin's Steve Stricker lost his only match yesterday. He teamed with Ben Curtis and they lost 4 and 2 to Ian Poulter and Justin Rose. Rose and Stricker swapped birdies early and the match was even until the Americans missed the green at No. 6 and failed to make par, giving the Englishmen a lead they never relinquished. Stricker hit into the water on No. 7 to eliminate an easy birdie chance, and he had to make birdies on the ninth and 10th just to halve the holes. Poulter contributed an 18-foot birdie on the 14th for a 3-up lead with four holes to play, and the match was dormie when Curtis missed a 5-foot birdie on the next hole. Curtis failed to make a single birdie in the match.
VIDEO REPORT ON THE CUP
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yTe05gXw-AA

Is This The End?

Seriously, is this it? Can they recover from this? How can you blow a 6-2 lead with two outs in the 9th and your closer on the bump? This happens once a year at best. Why now when we need this win the most? Unbelievable! And it all started because Braun half-assed it on the little soft liner to left. Put a fork in them, they are done. I'm not even going to watch anymore. Mortgage part of the future with LaPorta to get CC, which was a good move, and now they're blowing it. CC gone, Sheets, gone. Hello 3rd place in the Central next year. Mark it down.
This is a reflection of Yost, I don't care what you think. He's started this mess, and now they'll going to be at home in October. Good think the Packers are 2-0. If the Brewers want the fall spotlight from the Packers, then they need to earn it. They're proving again why they can't get it. Thanks for the ride this summer Milwaukee, but you're done!
Any opinions? A few comments would be nice.

Upcoming blog. Fantasy Football. What a crap shoot!

Choke Cubs Choke

Now, it's likely they won't choke, but this is still good. There are some other great ones on youtube. This is the cleanest one, but still has some profanity.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Iub80dJ5nOQ&feature=related

Ryder Cup

Being a pretty big golf fan, more of a fan when Tiger plays, this weekend is a big weekend for me. I absolutely love the Ryder Cup. It's the 37th Annual Ryder Cup and this time it's on American soil in Louisville.
The Americans have just gotten trounced the last three times. The last time we won was 1999 at Brookline when Justin Leonard sank the unsinkable putt to win it. Ever since, ol' Team USA has gotten their butts handed to them.
I'm excited to watch, but afraid of the end result once again, especially without Tiger. Although some would argue that he's not very good in this type of format as he's not used to being on a team. He's wired so much different than these other guys that he just doesn't do well. He's 3-1-1 in career singles matches, but only 10-13-1 overall.
Let me know what you think. Does TEAM USA have any shot this weekend in Louisville to take back the Ryder Cup?
On a side note, I'm very glad to see that Wisconsin native Steve Stricker made the team after the slump he went through a few years back. Gives us a little more interest in this Cup.

Brett - You're Either With Us or Against Us

Well I need to write about something other than the Brewers since that makes me sick they way they are choking that off. Unreal.

Well, let me start by saying, there's been no bigger supporter of Brett Favre in his tenure in Green Bay than me. I've always defended the guy when he sucked and never wanted him to leave the team I've grown up with. He's been the guy since I was in college. He was our leader, our hero, our guy. Now he's gone and I'm not happy about it.

In my mind, he's forced this entire situation for years. He drug this out every summer for the past three summers. He said he didn't know how much longer he'd be able to go. He took pictures crying with his lineman in Chicago on the last game of the year two years ago. He kept telling everyone including us through the media, he didn't know how long he'd play. Then the circus this spring began, but let me show you a few interesting things from this entire thing. I know this is the Packers account, but Favre's people wouldn't verify which means, this is probably how it went down. http://blogs.jsonline.com/packers/archive/2008/07/12/favre-retirement-timeline.aspx

Ted Thompson drafted Aaron Rodgers in 2005 with the 24th pick when he slid all the way to the Pack. He was rumored to possibly go #1 overall, but instead the 49ers took Alex Smith. That's gone well hasn't it? Now Ted was preparing this team with the QB of the future. You don't take a QB that high if you think Brett is going to play 4 more years. When Brett couldn't make up his mind, the Packers had to move on. They had to sell their players on the fact that they were moving on without Brett and all is well. If you listened to reports, players still on the team were getting upset that all the attention was on FAVRE. They were saying things like, "He's not the only reason we were 13-3." They then were under the assumption he was gone and they drafted ANOTHER QB high this past April in Brian Brohm.

In my opinion, Brett put the Packers in a bad spot. Now I understand the Packers front office didn't handle this very well. I'm not debating that. I don't blame them whatsoever for finally putting their foot down and saying "Enough is enough". I'll also say that of course I was skeptical of it all, but the bottom line is: I'M A PACKER FAN. I cheer for the guys on my team, no matter who they are. If Brett's ego was too big to come back and compete for the job, then good riddance. I'll always be grateful for what he did to rejuvinate a franchise who I couldn't bear to watch when I was a kid. I'll cheer for him when they retire his jersey in Green Bay, but I don't give him a free pass thinking he did nothing wrong in this past summers fiasco.

For now, he's a Jet and I'm not cheering for him. I hope he struggles. I hope he finds that it was a selfish decision. He always said he plays to win championships. Did he really believe going to a division with the best team in the NFL the last five years with Tom Brady, that he could really win? No. He's trying to show the Packers they messed up. Well, through two weeks Brett, it looks like the Packers haven't missed a beat without you.

Rodgers needed a chance, and he's handled this better than anyone could have imagined. He's in a lose-lose situation and he's winning. I'm sure he'll go through some rough spots, but who doesn't? It's his time now, and he's taking it and running. Go AROD.

Maybe I should have listened to you long ago FACE CARD TIM!

Wild Card Leaders No More

Well, we're one down with 11 games left. At least the Brewers bats showed some signs of life with 11 hits. Trying to find a bright spot since there haven't been any in two weeks.

Blanco Sqaured

Gregor Blanco just struck out with the bases loaded in the 9th and the Phillies held on vs. Atlanta, and the Cubs just got a hit from Henry Blanco to drive in another to make it 5-3. I guess it's just all going to go this way the rest of the way. Thanks for another slide in the 2nd half Ned. Good riddance.
This is how I feel!! http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x6gH9_cTACY

Is Dale a Ned Guy?

We'll see tonight if Dale Sveum is going to be similar to Ned. If he keeps running Rickie Weeks and Bill Hall out there, then he's a Ned guy. With three straight right-handers going for the Cubbies, I'd look to see Ray Durham at the top of the order and Craig Counsell playing third. I would let Rickie and Bill ride the pine together and make them realize this is professional baseball and if you don't produce over the long haul, you sit. Everyone goes through slumps (see Ryan Braun), but if it continues it's a trend and you need to have a seat.
The great news for us Brewer fans is the fact that CC is rolling out there tonight. The bad news is, the way they are swinging the bats, we need him to be near perfect again to win.
I'm hoping the line up looks like this tonight.
1- Durham 2B
2- Hardy SS
3- Braun LF (Look for Braun to come out of it. He's the leader of this team.)
4- Fielder 1B
5- Hart RF
6- Cameron CF
7- Counsell 3B
8- Kendall C
9- CC (almost should do Tony LaRussa's idea and bat CC 8th)

Final Score tonight??? 3-1 BREWERS - Wishful thinking, I know.

Interesting things on here. Check them out. http://blogs.jsonline.com/brewers/default.aspx

Also, look for my Brett Favre blog later tonight or tomorrow. Should make for some interesting banter. Please register and comment. It's FREE and it's fun to hear everyone's opinion.

Rockin Robin

I just read that Yount had addressed the team over the weekend in Philadelphia. Now he's been named the bench coach for the remainder of the season. Seems a bit conicidental that a guy who lives in Arizona just happens to be on the east coach to address the team. I wonder if this is a sign of him being the new manager. If so, I'd look for Woodchuck Manager Jim Gantner to be brought on board as a base coach. You heard it here first!
On ESPN, they also said that most likely this was an ownership decision and probably not Melvin's decision.
The BREWERS have 12 to play, 6 vs. the Cubs.
PHILADELPHIA goes to Atlanta for 3, to Florida for 3 and then home for 6 vs. Atlanta and Washington. EASY!
The METS have three at Washington, 3 at Atlanta, and then home for 7. Four vs. the Cubs (Go Cubs - YUCK) and 3 vs. Florida.

Brewers need to win 9 of 12 to get in. Mark it down.

A Whirlwind of Weekend!!

Well, as far as our lives are concerned with Wisconsin sports, it was a great weekend.
First of all, the Badgers won a tough game on the road in California. Will they be able to continue this great start with a road test coming up at Michigan. Now I know Michigan is down this year and coming off a drubbing at the hands of my "other" team, THE IRISH, but it's still Michigan. It's still the big house! I'd have to look up the last time the Badgers won in Ann Arbor, but I bet it's been over 10 years. I think that with the depth at RB (play JOHN CLAY more right Rutta) and a solid defense, the Badgers could definitely make a run at big time BCS bowl. A lot will be told in the next few weeks after the Michigan and Ohio State tests! In years past, this may have been a certain 0-2 or at best a possible split. This year however, with the OSU game at home, I think the Badgers can win both. As Coach Bielema says though, "we need to go 1-0 this week."
Secondly, what a Packer game yesterday! They started off like gangbusters, only to let the Lions make a run at them and actually take the lead! I couldn't believe my eyes when the punter (can you tell he's a nobody when I don't even know his damn name?) let that ball slip between his hands! I thought to myself, are you kidding, they are going to blow this??? For a bit, I started to get mad a McCarthy as I thought the play calling started to go a bit to conservative for me. I thought he was pulling an old Mike Holmgren trick and getting more and more conservative as the half wore on. However, it wasn't that bad, and the defense saved the day. I'm not sure if the defense was that good late, or if Kitna was just that horrible. I'm going with Kitna on that one. Thanks Jon! All in all, 2-0 is a great start with the Cowboys coming to town for a Sunday nighter this week. I couldn't be happier for Aaron Rodgers and how this has all begun for his first season as a starter. I'll talk more about that later, but I'm still a little bitter about the whole Brett Favre saga. I was happy he got his butt kicked yesterday, and wouldn't mind seeing round 2 this weekend in San Diego. Think they're upset? They got hosed yesterday in Denver!
And Lastly, The BREWERS! Wow, what a colossal collapse that is going on. I've been so fed up with it, I can't even watch lately if they are behind. And if they are ahead and it gets to the bullpen, that's an adventure! Although, I don't like Nervous Ned at all, I do feel bad he took the brunt of this. However, what else do you do? You have too much invested after trading for CC to let this slip. CC and Sheets are gone in the offseason, and then you're back to trying to build a winner. Don't get me wrong, they'll be solid, but they may not be this good. Read some great reports on this tonight, and after reading JJ Hardy's comments, it sounds as though some guys just didn't like Ned. I think that after blowing the season last year because he was too busy throwing at the Cardinals, and now this downfall, it was time to go. It's quite a shocker they did it with 12 games left, but it was a good move. I thought a big mistake was not starting CC yesterday on short rest. You almost have to. The Phillies moved their rotation around and had two guys going on 3 days rest and it worked for them! You have to try and run CC out there as much as possible at this point. He's not coming back anyway, who cares if his arm hurts. Right?? They have to try and right the ship before the season is over. I know most people in Wisconsin are happy to have this done. Add me to that list.
There's still time to win this thing! Let's go BREWERS!
And lastly, a shout out to my boy TIM "RAIDER NATION" HOFFMAN who drove to KC this weekend with TY to see his beloved, but terrible, Raiders play the Chiefs. It was well worth the 7 hours as RUN DMC and the Raiders ran all over the Chiefs 23-8! Atta boy Timmy! Tim's USC Trojans also made the Ohio St. Buckeyes look like a little JV team. Wow, nice showing OSU!

On a personal note, Kristine is down to about 6 1/2 weeks until the baby gets here. We're excited and ready for it to come. It's a been a rough road for her, and I know she's anxious to not be pregnant anymore! Due Date is still Halloween! Trick or Treat! Thanks to everyone who's been checking up on us since July when she had some difficulites. Will post more about the baby later.

Well, thanks for reading my blog. I think I'm going to have some fun with this. Until next time....... WHO'S YOUR MATTY????

Welcome to my new blog!

Welcome, welcome, welcome. I'm so excited to be starting this new blog. I've always wanted to do this and always have a boatload of thoughts on different things, so I figured, why not.
I'll be figuring this thing out the next few days and start posting some of my thoughts on here. I'm sure most will be related the world of sports, and why shouldn't they be? I enjoy debating my friends and others on the topics currently in the world of sports.
Well, let me publish this first blog, make sure we're all good to go and I'll be back!!!
Take care ya'll!!