Hi All
Obviously I do not blog much anymore. The reason behind that is I now host a two hour LIVE Internet radio show hosted by www.clevelandsportsforums.com. The show is titled FANTASY FOCUS and airs from 8 PM ET to 10 PM ET every Wed. We try to help everyone navigate through the fantasy football season. We have had some great guests so far. Ryan Fowler, Jeff Haseley, and Dustin Fox to name a few.
So if you have time on Wednesday nights make sure you check it out! Once the NFL season is over I will probably return to the blog scene, but for now preparing a two hour show each week combined with all of my other activities is more than enough to keep me busy.
Until we meet again Go Cleveland!
Rich
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
GameDay Preview: Browns vs Lions
Follow me on twitter @burnriversports to tweet about the game.
#1 Colt McCoy
The quarterback position is the most important for any team and probably even more so for the Browns. Since our return to the league we have not had a consistent signal caller. In my opinion this is the #1 reason for our losing ways.
Colt showed great poise in the pocket as well as quick decision making last week vs. Green Bay. I can only remember questioning two of his decisions. The first was on the opening drive. He started to scramble out of the pocket and fired a lateral pass to Owen Marecic instead of just running the football. Owen dropped the pass and the Browns were potentially close to a turnover. In that situation Colt could have scrambled for at least a five yard gain before sliding to avoid damage. The second questionable decision was the beautiful pass that he threaded through six Packers defenders to Robiskie. While the pass was pretty the decision was poor. The window there was just too tight. That's a batted ball or a turnover more times than not.
Other than these two plays I was very impressed by his performance. He needs to show this same poise against Detroit tonight. Make quick decisions, get the receivers involved, recognize blitzes, and move the team. I expect at least 10 points out of the first team offense tonight.
#2 Offensive Line Performance
The offensive line is the 2011 Cleveland Browns biggest asset. They are easily the best in the AFC North and need to play that way. I was somewhat disappointed in their push against the Packers when trying to run the ball in the first half. Neither Hillis (3.2 ave) or Jackson (3.5 ave) really established much in my opinion. Id like to see them win the battle up front against a good Detroit defensive line. Establishing the run will be a key factor in the overall success of this offense.
#3 Rookie Impact
The Browns front office states that we are building through the draft so I want to see something out of these draft picks. Id like to see Taylor occupy space in the run game and collapse at least one pocket tonight. Id like to see Sheard get some pressure and at least not look lost on running plays. I'm interested to see the play of Buster Skrine and James Dockery, who both should see some extended time. Greg Little needs to build on a decent game against the Packers. No drops, good routes, and some YAC (yards after catch).
Realistically the Browns are positioning themselves to make a splash on the contender scene next year. We have the draft picks in place to do so and we will have the cap money to go after an impact player or two in free agency. This year's draft class is paramount to our long term contention plan. If these young kids can solidify spots as starters or key backups it will keep us on track to achieve our goal. If they falter it will add another year onto our contention timeline.
All in all though its football and I'm excited its back! So here's to watching the Browns tame the Lions tonight and the Tribe chasing those Kittens up a tree.
Monday, August 1, 2011
Burning Reaction: Ubaldo Jimenez Trade
If your from Cleveland or follow MLB at all you now know that the Cleveland Indians completed the following blockbuster deadline trade this past weekend.
Rockies Receive
Drew Pomeranz
Alex White
Matt McBride
Joe Gardner
Indians Receive
Ubaldo Jimenez
I was sitting at Slim N Chubbies out in Strongsville with Mrs. BurningRiver when the news started to trickle in via twitter. We were drinking beers, watching the Tribe battle the Royals, and waiting for my buddy's band to start playing. At first you heard that White and Pomeranz were both scratched from their starts. Then you started to read the tweets that they were both being shipped to Colorado for Jimenez. STO even broke in a few times to the Colorado game to show that Jimenez was pitching, but the Rockies had their bullpen up in the 1st inning. Something was happening. Twitter these days is an amazing thing. Just as I was starting to explain what was going on to Mrs. BurningRiver, two other guys at the bar read the same reports on their phone and soon everyone was talking about the trade. There was even some humorous dialog between a couple that was behind us.
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron:
"Wow the Tribe is going to trade for Ubaldo."
Hipster douche bag boyfriend:
"Ubaldo? What is an Ubaldo?"
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron:
"He is a pretty good pitcher for the Rockies. We are giving up two good minor leaguers or something for him."
Hipster douche bag boyfriend:
"Oh. blah blah blah, Man my jeans are way to tight."
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron: "Blank stare at Hipster boyfriend.... Well I hope we win tonight."
LOL.
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron - 1
Hipster douche bag boyfriend - 0
At first I wasn't happy with the Trade. I even sent out a tweet that I thought it was a bad move for the Tribe. We were giving away our top two pitching prospects for a pitcher who was 6-9 this year with a 4.46 ERA. I know he started the NL All-Star game in 2010 and I know his ERA this year was a bit uncharacteristic, but I wasn't initially sold. I really think Drew Pomeranz has a chance to be something special. Why deal him for a pitcher when we clearly need offensive help? I was torn for the next few hours as I watched the Tribe battle back and beat the Royals on a walk-off HR by LaPorta. As more drinks went down and the band started to play I changed my opinion on the deal at least five times.
On one hand the Tribe finally made a big move at the deadline in which we were not giving away a former All-Star for prospects This is exactly what all Tribe fans have been screaming about since 2007. We took a gamble, trading away some players that MIGHT be good in the majors, and landed a potential ace.
On the other hand is Ubaldo really an ace? Has he been battling injuries this year? Is that the reason his ERA is up? Did we just trade for a guy that is going to go down with an elbow or shoulder injury due to throwing 95-99 mph for the past three + seasons with a quirky delivery?
I just couldn't decide. So I let those thoughts simmer for a few days. Now that they have had the proper time to marinate I'm ready to give my official opinion.
I like the trade for the Tribe and here are three reasons why.
1) We don't have room for Pomeranz, White, Huff, Gomez, McAllister, Masterson, Carrasco, Tomlin in our rotation. The last time a checked, most major league managers use a five man rotation. I just named eight guys that all have the ability to be in our rotation next year. I didn't even mention Carmona. By making this deal your rotation going into 2011 should be Ubaldo, Masterson, Tomlin, Carrasco and either Huff, Gomez or Carmona. Ill take that. Pitching wins championships. The Giants just proved that last year and the 90's Indians teams proved that as well.... unfortunately in their case.
2) We now have a three year window to contend with these young arms. Ubaldo, Masterson, Tomlin, etc are all pretty much locked up for the next three seasons. This is big for a mid-market team that cannot give out 100 million dollar contracts. The front office is now all in to win the division for the next three seasons which means we should see increased free agent spending in the off season and at the trade deadline during this window. Hopefully we can make a run this year and then in the off season add a power hitting rand handed bat via free agency. Given how hard it has been to watch CC, Lee, Victor, and others leave us over the past few seasons this should be a very welcomed change.
3) It gives us the ability to win a playoff series if we were to make the playoffs. Being able to throw Ubaldo, Masterson, and Tomlin to start a series puts us right there with a team like the Angels and probably gives us the advantage over the Yanks, BoSox, Rangers, etc. If we had two being able to throw Masterson and Ubaldo twice in a series on 4 days rest is a big plus.
Sure we might have overpaid a bit, and yes I really do think Pomeranz may be a stud, but the potential rewards are worth the risk. At the end of the day this trade seems to go along with our slogan this year.
What If?
If Ubaldo pitches like he did in 2008 - 2010 for us over the next three seasons then we are winners here. He has the ability to make the ball miss the bat. In 851 career innings Ubaldo averages over 8 Ks per 9 innings. Even in 2011, a supposedly down year, he is at 8.63 Ks per 9 so the ability is there. This trait is hard to find and now we have two guys (Ubaldo and Masterson) that can do it.
So instead of worrying about how good Pomeranz or White MIGHT be I'm going to enjoy watching how good Ubaldo ALREADY is.
#Giddyup #Leggo #ItsTribeTimeNow
Drew Pomeranz
Alex White
Matt McBride
Joe Gardner
Ubaldo Jimenez
I was sitting at Slim N Chubbies out in Strongsville with Mrs. BurningRiver when the news started to trickle in via twitter. We were drinking beers, watching the Tribe battle the Royals, and waiting for my buddy's band to start playing. At first you heard that White and Pomeranz were both scratched from their starts. Then you started to read the tweets that they were both being shipped to Colorado for Jimenez. STO even broke in a few times to the Colorado game to show that Jimenez was pitching, but the Rockies had their bullpen up in the 1st inning. Something was happening. Twitter these days is an amazing thing. Just as I was starting to explain what was going on to Mrs. BurningRiver, two other guys at the bar read the same reports on their phone and soon everyone was talking about the trade. There was even some humorous dialog between a couple that was behind us.
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron:
"Wow the Tribe is going to trade for Ubaldo."
Hipster douche bag boyfriend:
"Ubaldo? What is an Ubaldo?"
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron:
"He is a pretty good pitcher for the Rockies. We are giving up two good minor leaguers or something for him."
Hipster douche bag boyfriend:
"Oh. blah blah blah, Man my jeans are way to tight."
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron: "Blank stare at Hipster boyfriend.... Well I hope we win tonight."
LOL.
Semi Attractive 28-30 yr old female Bar Patron - 1
Hipster douche bag boyfriend - 0
At first I wasn't happy with the Trade. I even sent out a tweet that I thought it was a bad move for the Tribe. We were giving away our top two pitching prospects for a pitcher who was 6-9 this year with a 4.46 ERA. I know he started the NL All-Star game in 2010 and I know his ERA this year was a bit uncharacteristic, but I wasn't initially sold. I really think Drew Pomeranz has a chance to be something special. Why deal him for a pitcher when we clearly need offensive help? I was torn for the next few hours as I watched the Tribe battle back and beat the Royals on a walk-off HR by LaPorta. As more drinks went down and the band started to play I changed my opinion on the deal at least five times.
On one hand the Tribe finally made a big move at the deadline in which we were not giving away a former All-Star for prospects This is exactly what all Tribe fans have been screaming about since 2007. We took a gamble, trading away some players that MIGHT be good in the majors, and landed a potential ace.
On the other hand is Ubaldo really an ace? Has he been battling injuries this year? Is that the reason his ERA is up? Did we just trade for a guy that is going to go down with an elbow or shoulder injury due to throwing 95-99 mph for the past three + seasons with a quirky delivery?
I just couldn't decide. So I let those thoughts simmer for a few days. Now that they have had the proper time to marinate I'm ready to give my official opinion.
I like the trade for the Tribe and here are three reasons why.
1) We don't have room for Pomeranz, White, Huff, Gomez, McAllister, Masterson, Carrasco, Tomlin in our rotation. The last time a checked, most major league managers use a five man rotation. I just named eight guys that all have the ability to be in our rotation next year. I didn't even mention Carmona. By making this deal your rotation going into 2011 should be Ubaldo, Masterson, Tomlin, Carrasco and either Huff, Gomez or Carmona. Ill take that. Pitching wins championships. The Giants just proved that last year and the 90's Indians teams proved that as well.... unfortunately in their case.
2) We now have a three year window to contend with these young arms. Ubaldo, Masterson, Tomlin, etc are all pretty much locked up for the next three seasons. This is big for a mid-market team that cannot give out 100 million dollar contracts. The front office is now all in to win the division for the next three seasons which means we should see increased free agent spending in the off season and at the trade deadline during this window. Hopefully we can make a run this year and then in the off season add a power hitting rand handed bat via free agency. Given how hard it has been to watch CC, Lee, Victor, and others leave us over the past few seasons this should be a very welcomed change.
3) It gives us the ability to win a playoff series if we were to make the playoffs. Being able to throw Ubaldo, Masterson, and Tomlin to start a series puts us right there with a team like the Angels and probably gives us the advantage over the Yanks, BoSox, Rangers, etc. If we had two being able to throw Masterson and Ubaldo twice in a series on 4 days rest is a big plus.
Sure we might have overpaid a bit, and yes I really do think Pomeranz may be a stud, but the potential rewards are worth the risk. At the end of the day this trade seems to go along with our slogan this year.
What If?
If Ubaldo pitches like he did in 2008 - 2010 for us over the next three seasons then we are winners here. He has the ability to make the ball miss the bat. In 851 career innings Ubaldo averages over 8 Ks per 9 innings. Even in 2011, a supposedly down year, he is at 8.63 Ks per 9 so the ability is there. This trait is hard to find and now we have two guys (Ubaldo and Masterson) that can do it.
So instead of worrying about how good Pomeranz or White MIGHT be I'm going to enjoy watching how good Ubaldo ALREADY is.
#Giddyup #Leggo #ItsTribeTimeNow
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Xmas in July! The NFL is Back!
Thank you sweet little 6 pound, 7 ounce, baby Jesus! The lockout is over and we can all start preparing for training camp and fantasy football. This week should be fun with Free Agency about an hour old.
Below is the official timeline of events this week in case you haven't seen it yet on the world wide leader.. Thanks to ESPN for providing. Full story here.
ESPN Football Is Back!
With the NFL back in business, here's how the first days of league business will go for players and teams:
Monday at 6 p.m. ET
• NFL to publish official list of 2011 free agents.
Tuesday at 10 a.m. ET
• Trading begins.
• Teams can sign rookies and undrafted free agents.
• Teams can negotiate with, but not sign, veteran free agents.
Thursday at 4:01 p.m. ET
• Team can begin to cut players.
Friday at 6 p.m. ET
• Teams can officially sign free agents. Players who sign must report to new teams but can't participate in physical activities until start of league year on Aug. 4.
Aug. 4 at 4:01 p.m. ET
• Clubs must be within salary cap.
With that being said I see the Browns top 5 needs as follows.
1) Linebacker
2) Defensive End/line
3) Wide Receiver
4) Change of pace Running Back
5) Safety
Lets be honest we need some help on the right side of the offensive line as well, but I rank that 6th. I haven't read that linebacker is our most glaring need very much, but I don't see how it isn't. I don't know who would start for us at the three LB positions right now. Fujita would be one. Gocong? DJax? Does DJax even have the ability to play football at this point? This is a problem folks.
Given those needs I think there are a few key names that could be targets for the Browns in free agency. I have broken the list up into three groups. Obvious Names - Guys that we would of course like, but probably won't get. Impact Names That Are Realistic - Guys that could really help the Browns, but are not top top names so we actually have a chance, Other Names - Guys that are probably only fill in type players (think Mike Adams, Tony Pashos, etc). As a note these are all unrestricted free agents.
Obvious Names
1) Charles Johnson DE Car
2) Ray Edwards DE Min
3) Paul Posluszny LB Buf
4) Santonio Holmes WR NyJ
5) Tyson Clabo RT Atl
As much as I would like to see Johnson or Edwards on our Dline I just don't see this happening. I don't know if we are quite there yet to attract the big name Free Agent talent. I think we have an outside shot of stealing Posluszny from the Bills now that Jauron is in CLE. Posluszny says he likes Buffalo and I think we could make a pitch that Cleveland has the same hard nosed fans (but better), are headed in the right direction (but faster than Buf), and has a more attractive city life without being too big. Also the Bills are switching to the 3-4 while we are going to the 4-3 and I think Paul is better suited for the 4-3. Still not a great chance, but I think there is at least a chance to land him. Probably our best shot at one of my big five free agents. I don't think Santonio is going back to the Jets but he probably won't end up here either. Would be nice though. Clabo might not be a household name but he was a Pro Bowl tackle in 2010. I doubt he leaves ATL but he is 29 and it would nice if the Browns made a play for him.
Impact Names That Are Realistic
1) Steve Breaston WR Ari
2) Eric Weddle S SD
3) Donte Whitner S Buf
4) James Jones WR GB
5) LeRoy Hill LB Sea
Holmgren has said a few times the Browns would target a WR in Free Agency. I think Steve Breaston could be a great fit in the slot with MoMass, RoBo, and GLittle on the outside. Breaston has had a 1,000 yrd season to his credit and would provide a bit of a speed threat that the Browns just don't have in their WR core right now. Donte Whitner/LeRoy Hill are both defensive starters that I think the Browns have a shot at because of their past connections (Jauron Bills, Holmgren Seahawks). Eric Weddle is a guy I think the Browns should target hard. He fits our need of a Free Safety, is young (26), and productive. He is probably a long shot since he is the best free agent safety, but his current rumored destination is Jacksonville. Our owner has the money and we have a much better pitch than the lowly Jaguars franchise unless all he wants is sunshine.
Other Names That Could Help
1) Dawan Landry S Bal
2) Jerious Norwood RB Atl
3) Ashton Youboty DB Buf
4) Atari Bigby DB GB
5) Lance Moore WR NO
6) Michael Huff S Oak
7) Ernie Sims LB Phil
8) Manny Lawson LB SF
9) Raheem Brock DE Sea
10) Chris Houston DB Det
11) Jared Gaither OT Bal
12) Alan Branch DT Ari
TJ Ward without breaking the bank. Ernie Sims is a guy who was once a tackle machine in Detroit. His production has fallen off the past two seasons, however I think he is a guy that could also help at the LB position in the 4-3 without taking up a large chunk of your salary cap.
All indications are that the Browns will not be huge players in free agency so here is my futile attempt at guessing who will land in Brown and Orange.
1) Donte Whitner S Buf
2) Steve Breaston WR Ari
3) Ernie Sims LB Phil
I think we will somehow obtain a 3rd down RB and some additional defensively line help, but not sure who at this point.
History proves that since I'm predicting these three will be Browns there is now actually zero chance they will be, but hey ill take a swing anyway.
Go Browns! Glad football is back.
Below is the official timeline of events this week in case you haven't seen it yet on the world wide leader.. Thanks to ESPN for providing. Full story here.
ESPN Football Is Back!
NFL timeline of transactions
With the NFL back in business, here's how the first days of league business will go for players and teams:Monday at 6 p.m. ET
• NFL to publish official list of 2011 free agents.
Tuesday at 10 a.m. ET
• Trading begins.
• Teams can sign rookies and undrafted free agents.
• Teams can negotiate with, but not sign, veteran free agents.
Thursday at 4:01 p.m. ET
• Team can begin to cut players.
Friday at 6 p.m. ET
• Teams can officially sign free agents. Players who sign must report to new teams but can't participate in physical activities until start of league year on Aug. 4.
Aug. 4 at 4:01 p.m. ET
• Clubs must be within salary cap.
With that being said I see the Browns top 5 needs as follows.
1) Linebacker
2) Defensive End/line
3) Wide Receiver
4) Change of pace Running Back
5) Safety
Lets be honest we need some help on the right side of the offensive line as well, but I rank that 6th. I haven't read that linebacker is our most glaring need very much, but I don't see how it isn't. I don't know who would start for us at the three LB positions right now. Fujita would be one. Gocong? DJax? Does DJax even have the ability to play football at this point? This is a problem folks.
Given those needs I think there are a few key names that could be targets for the Browns in free agency. I have broken the list up into three groups. Obvious Names - Guys that we would of course like, but probably won't get. Impact Names That Are Realistic - Guys that could really help the Browns, but are not top top names so we actually have a chance, Other Names - Guys that are probably only fill in type players (think Mike Adams, Tony Pashos, etc). As a note these are all unrestricted free agents.
Obvious Names
1) Charles Johnson DE Car
2) Ray Edwards DE Min
3) Paul Posluszny LB Buf
4) Santonio Holmes WR NyJ
5) Tyson Clabo RT Atl
As much as I would like to see Johnson or Edwards on our Dline I just don't see this happening. I don't know if we are quite there yet to attract the big name Free Agent talent. I think we have an outside shot of stealing Posluszny from the Bills now that Jauron is in CLE. Posluszny says he likes Buffalo and I think we could make a pitch that Cleveland has the same hard nosed fans (but better), are headed in the right direction (but faster than Buf), and has a more attractive city life without being too big. Also the Bills are switching to the 3-4 while we are going to the 4-3 and I think Paul is better suited for the 4-3. Still not a great chance, but I think there is at least a chance to land him. Probably our best shot at one of my big five free agents. I don't think Santonio is going back to the Jets but he probably won't end up here either. Would be nice though. Clabo might not be a household name but he was a Pro Bowl tackle in 2010. I doubt he leaves ATL but he is 29 and it would nice if the Browns made a play for him.
Impact Names That Are Realistic
1) Steve Breaston WR Ari
2) Eric Weddle S SD
3) Donte Whitner S Buf
4) James Jones WR GB
5) LeRoy Hill LB Sea
Holmgren has said a few times the Browns would target a WR in Free Agency. I think Steve Breaston could be a great fit in the slot with MoMass, RoBo, and GLittle on the outside. Breaston has had a 1,000 yrd season to his credit and would provide a bit of a speed threat that the Browns just don't have in their WR core right now. Donte Whitner/LeRoy Hill are both defensive starters that I think the Browns have a shot at because of their past connections (Jauron Bills, Holmgren Seahawks). Eric Weddle is a guy I think the Browns should target hard. He fits our need of a Free Safety, is young (26), and productive. He is probably a long shot since he is the best free agent safety, but his current rumored destination is Jacksonville. Our owner has the money and we have a much better pitch than the lowly Jaguars franchise unless all he wants is sunshine.
Other Names That Could Help
1) Dawan Landry S Bal
2) Jerious Norwood RB Atl
3) Ashton Youboty DB Buf
4) Atari Bigby DB GB
5) Lance Moore WR NO
6) Michael Huff S Oak
7) Ernie Sims LB Phil
8) Manny Lawson LB SF
9) Raheem Brock DE Sea
10) Chris Houston DB Det
11) Jared Gaither OT Bal
12) Alan Branch DT Ari
TJ Ward without breaking the bank. Ernie Sims is a guy who was once a tackle machine in Detroit. His production has fallen off the past two seasons, however I think he is a guy that could also help at the LB position in the 4-3 without taking up a large chunk of your salary cap.
All indications are that the Browns will not be huge players in free agency so here is my futile attempt at guessing who will land in Brown and Orange.
1) Donte Whitner S Buf
2) Steve Breaston WR Ari
3) Ernie Sims LB Phil
I think we will somehow obtain a 3rd down RB and some additional defensively line help, but not sure who at this point.
History proves that since I'm predicting these three will be Browns there is now actually zero chance they will be, but hey ill take a swing anyway.
Go Browns! Glad football is back.
Tuesday, July 19, 2011
Tribe Memory Lane: Angels @ Indians 1995
Many people think that as a Cleveland sports fan all I have is memories of disappointment and disaster. While I do have plenty of terrible sports memories I also have some really amazing ones. At some point I am going to write a blog on my top five CLE sports memories. Today though, I share with you my #1 favorite memory as a CLE sports fan.
It’s somewhat of an arbitrary memory. It wasn't from the World Series, NBA Finals, or any playoff game for that matter. This memory was born in the summer of 1995. One of the best baseball summers in the history of this city and by far the best baseball summer in my lifetime. The Indians were back. For decades they lost game after game. Their last trip to the MLB playoffs was 1954 when they were swept out of the World Series by the New York Giants. They were supposed to be back in the 80s. They even made the cover of Sports Illustrated, but they never lived up to any expectations until that oooooh so sweet summer of 1995. The Tribe drew almost 3 million fans to Jacob's Field that year as they steam rolled the AL, and finished with a record of 100 wins and 44 losses. The Indians won their first Central Division Championship by THIRTY games. 3 - 0. Yes 30. Not three games. Not thirteen games. THIRTY freaking games. (Fun Fact #1 of this Blog: Tribe hit 207 Home Runs in 1995. This demolished all other MLB teams except Colorado who hit 200 Home Runs in 95 before MLB figured out that their park was basically unfair.)
The 1995 Cleveland Indians team will go down as one of the best offensive clubs in the history of the franchise. Take a look at a typical lineup card from any given game in that magical season.
Kenny Lofton - CF
Omar Vizquel - SS
Carlos Baerga - 2B
Albert Belle - LF
Eddie Murray - DH
Jim Thome - 3B
Manny Ramirez - RF
Paul Sorrento - 1B
Sandy Alomar - C
That lineup is just ridiculous. It’s seriously an All-Star team and if you think that is crazy look at the names on the bench! Jeromy Burnitz, Brian Giles, Tony Pena and Dave Winfield (3,000 hit club and Hall of Famer)!
Think about that lineup. Lofton has four gold gloves. Murray is in the 3,000 hit club. Thome is going to be in the 600 HR club. Manny is well Manny, but if not for steroids a lock for Cooperstown. Belle was the first player to hit 50 doubles AND 50 Home Runs in the same season and had NINE consecutive seasons of 100 + RBIs. Omar is one of the best fielding SS of all time and has 11 gold gloves. Sandy is an All-Star game MVP. Carlos is one of two players to hit a home run in the same inning from both sides of the plate and was a three time All-Star. (Fun Fact #2: Baerga, Sandy Alomar, and Chris James were acquired in the same trade from San Diego for Joe Carter in 1989.) Sorrento is the least known name on that lineup card but he even had 20-25 HR power and hit the first grand slam in Jacob's Field history.
The only thing the Tribe didn't have in 1995 was a shutdown pitching staff, but they still had some very solid names. Rotational arms like the Bulldog Orel Hershiser, Charlie Nagy, and Dennis Martinez coupled with strong bullpen arms like Paul Assenmacher, Eric Plunk, Paul Shuey, and Jose Mesa made up a very respectable staff. (Fun Fact #3: John Ferrell and Bud Black were also on the 95 team. Both are current MLB Managers)
But, I digress. The 1995 Cleveland Indians won 25 games in their final at bat, and this one in particular is my #1 CLE sports memory of all time. The date was July 18th. I was fourteen years old. The Indians were playing the California Angels who were leading the AL West. On the mound for the Angels was the all-time career saves leader in Lee Smith. The Tribe entered the 9th inning trailing 5-3. I was at the game with my parents, who had season tickets. We were standing on the home run porch as we did during most games in the 9th. My dad always liked to get a jump on traffic, and bolt if things didn't look good, or as soon as the game was over. He would have to wait on this night.
Wayne Kirby led off the 9th inning as a pinch hitter and reached base on an infield single past JT Snow. Jim Thome was up next, but struck out. During the Thome at bat Kirby stole second. With one out Omar Vizquel hit a line drive that tipped off of the glove of a leaping shortstop. This put runners on the corners with one down. Baerga walked to load the bases for Albert Belle. We all know what happened next. Belle drove a two strike pitch to dead center field. It was a walk-off, grand slam home run, off of the all-time saves leader in Lee Smith. Euphoria rained down on Jacob's Field. Forty-two thousand, playoff starved, fans went absolutely bonkers. Belle was beat down, gang style, at home plate by his teammates. The magic at Jacob's Field that we all talk about to this day was born.
I can remember watching Belle put that ball into orbit like it was yesterday. I was standing right next to the left field foul pole. I had the perfect angle to watch such a feat. As Albert’s bat struck the Lee Smith offering I defiantly put my hands into the air. I knew it was gone. It was a rocket of a home run. It zipped past the center field camera man as the fans in the bleachers and right field went nuts. I immediately turned around and started to hug anyone in site. I watched as others around me did the same. I then noticed fans curiously bolting out of the stadium. I didn’t know what was going on, but I had to join them. I ran past my parents and high-fived them as I followed the jubilant mass into the warm Cleveland night. We ran straight to the grassy knoll between the Gund Arena and Jacob's Field. In that grassy field hundreds of fans jumped into a huge pile of happiness. We pretended that we just hit that walk-off home run and we recreated the mob scene at home plate. I was buried under a mass of complete strangers and wouldn't have traded places with anyone in the world.
The feeling was fantastic. I wanted more. I still want more to this day. It’s the feeling that drives me as a fan. It’s almost like a really, really good drug. Once you have a taste you will do anything to get more. (Fill it up again! Once it hits your lips, it’s so good!) You will sit through misery and disappointment and always hold out hope that you find that fleeting emotion one more time. I really think it’s this moment that hooked me as a sports fan forever. I had always liked sports as a kid and loved my Cleveland teams, but this moment took my relationship with Cleveland sports to the next level. I was all-in. No matter what Cleveland sports did to me as a fan I would always take them back with open arms.
It’s been sixteen years since that moment, almost to the day. As I watch this 2011 Cleveland Indians team I know they aren't as good as the 1995 team, or any of the great teams of the 90s. That doesn't matter though. They just need to be good enough to force me to cancel my Saturday afternoon trips to Home Depot or Bed Bath and Beyond because I was out too late bonging funnels of that wonderful sports emotion. Here's to an Indians Summer Cleveland. Here's to the hope for October baseball again on the shores of Lake Erie. Drink up.
What If?
It’s somewhat of an arbitrary memory. It wasn't from the World Series, NBA Finals, or any playoff game for that matter. This memory was born in the summer of 1995. One of the best baseball summers in the history of this city and by far the best baseball summer in my lifetime. The Indians were back. For decades they lost game after game. Their last trip to the MLB playoffs was 1954 when they were swept out of the World Series by the New York Giants. They were supposed to be back in the 80s. They even made the cover of Sports Illustrated, but they never lived up to any expectations until that oooooh so sweet summer of 1995. The Tribe drew almost 3 million fans to Jacob's Field that year as they steam rolled the AL, and finished with a record of 100 wins and 44 losses. The Indians won their first Central Division Championship by THIRTY games. 3 - 0. Yes 30. Not three games. Not thirteen games. THIRTY freaking games. (Fun Fact #1 of this Blog: Tribe hit 207 Home Runs in 1995. This demolished all other MLB teams except Colorado who hit 200 Home Runs in 95 before MLB figured out that their park was basically unfair.)
The 1995 Cleveland Indians team will go down as one of the best offensive clubs in the history of the franchise. Take a look at a typical lineup card from any given game in that magical season.
Kenny Lofton - CF
Omar Vizquel - SS
Carlos Baerga - 2B
Albert Belle - LF
Eddie Murray - DH
Jim Thome - 3B
Manny Ramirez - RF
Paul Sorrento - 1B
Sandy Alomar - C
That lineup is just ridiculous. It’s seriously an All-Star team and if you think that is crazy look at the names on the bench! Jeromy Burnitz, Brian Giles, Tony Pena and Dave Winfield (3,000 hit club and Hall of Famer)!
Think about that lineup. Lofton has four gold gloves. Murray is in the 3,000 hit club. Thome is going to be in the 600 HR club. Manny is well Manny, but if not for steroids a lock for Cooperstown. Belle was the first player to hit 50 doubles AND 50 Home Runs in the same season and had NINE consecutive seasons of 100 + RBIs. Omar is one of the best fielding SS of all time and has 11 gold gloves. Sandy is an All-Star game MVP. Carlos is one of two players to hit a home run in the same inning from both sides of the plate and was a three time All-Star. (Fun Fact #2: Baerga, Sandy Alomar, and Chris James were acquired in the same trade from San Diego for Joe Carter in 1989.) Sorrento is the least known name on that lineup card but he even had 20-25 HR power and hit the first grand slam in Jacob's Field history.
The only thing the Tribe didn't have in 1995 was a shutdown pitching staff, but they still had some very solid names. Rotational arms like the Bulldog Orel Hershiser, Charlie Nagy, and Dennis Martinez coupled with strong bullpen arms like Paul Assenmacher, Eric Plunk, Paul Shuey, and Jose Mesa made up a very respectable staff. (Fun Fact #3: John Ferrell and Bud Black were also on the 95 team. Both are current MLB Managers)
But, I digress. The 1995 Cleveland Indians won 25 games in their final at bat, and this one in particular is my #1 CLE sports memory of all time. The date was July 18th. I was fourteen years old. The Indians were playing the California Angels who were leading the AL West. On the mound for the Angels was the all-time career saves leader in Lee Smith. The Tribe entered the 9th inning trailing 5-3. I was at the game with my parents, who had season tickets. We were standing on the home run porch as we did during most games in the 9th. My dad always liked to get a jump on traffic, and bolt if things didn't look good, or as soon as the game was over. He would have to wait on this night.
Wayne Kirby led off the 9th inning as a pinch hitter and reached base on an infield single past JT Snow. Jim Thome was up next, but struck out. During the Thome at bat Kirby stole second. With one out Omar Vizquel hit a line drive that tipped off of the glove of a leaping shortstop. This put runners on the corners with one down. Baerga walked to load the bases for Albert Belle. We all know what happened next. Belle drove a two strike pitch to dead center field. It was a walk-off, grand slam home run, off of the all-time saves leader in Lee Smith. Euphoria rained down on Jacob's Field. Forty-two thousand, playoff starved, fans went absolutely bonkers. Belle was beat down, gang style, at home plate by his teammates. The magic at Jacob's Field that we all talk about to this day was born.
I can remember watching Belle put that ball into orbit like it was yesterday. I was standing right next to the left field foul pole. I had the perfect angle to watch such a feat. As Albert’s bat struck the Lee Smith offering I defiantly put my hands into the air. I knew it was gone. It was a rocket of a home run. It zipped past the center field camera man as the fans in the bleachers and right field went nuts. I immediately turned around and started to hug anyone in site. I watched as others around me did the same. I then noticed fans curiously bolting out of the stadium. I didn’t know what was going on, but I had to join them. I ran past my parents and high-fived them as I followed the jubilant mass into the warm Cleveland night. We ran straight to the grassy knoll between the Gund Arena and Jacob's Field. In that grassy field hundreds of fans jumped into a huge pile of happiness. We pretended that we just hit that walk-off home run and we recreated the mob scene at home plate. I was buried under a mass of complete strangers and wouldn't have traded places with anyone in the world.
The feeling was fantastic. I wanted more. I still want more to this day. It’s the feeling that drives me as a fan. It’s almost like a really, really good drug. Once you have a taste you will do anything to get more. (Fill it up again! Once it hits your lips, it’s so good!) You will sit through misery and disappointment and always hold out hope that you find that fleeting emotion one more time. I really think it’s this moment that hooked me as a sports fan forever. I had always liked sports as a kid and loved my Cleveland teams, but this moment took my relationship with Cleveland sports to the next level. I was all-in. No matter what Cleveland sports did to me as a fan I would always take them back with open arms.
It’s been sixteen years since that moment, almost to the day. As I watch this 2011 Cleveland Indians team I know they aren't as good as the 1995 team, or any of the great teams of the 90s. That doesn't matter though. They just need to be good enough to force me to cancel my Saturday afternoon trips to Home Depot or Bed Bath and Beyond because I was out too late bonging funnels of that wonderful sports emotion. Here's to an Indians Summer Cleveland. Here's to the hope for October baseball again on the shores of Lake Erie. Drink up.
What If?
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
The Beautiful Game
This past weekend one of the best sporting contests in the history of the Unites States took place. It did not involve a baseball, a football, a basketball, a hockey puck, a golf ball, a bowling ball, a race car, a track, horses, or water. Kobe was not in sight. Michael Phelps was busy. Peyton Manning was still locked out.
All that was needed was some green grass, a few nets, a round ball, and some amazing athletes. Many of these people are not household names. Many of them may never be, but they sure did their best to try and catch our attention.
For those of you that somehow missed it the USA Women's National Team defeated Brazil in the 2011 Women's World Cup. It was one of the most enthralling contests I have ever had the privilege to watch. To put this in perspective I am not an avid soccer (futbol) fan. I appreciate the game. Its not easy and as Americans many of us don't quite understand it... Yet. However, on Sunday, it was the venue for amazing sports theatre.
The American women led early 1-0 due to an own goal by Brazil in the opening minutes as the Americans pressured early. After that it seemed somewhat sloppy for the next 60 minutes or so, but that's when things got real interesting. At the 65 minute mark US player, Rachel Buehler, received a red card for a penalty on Marta inside the US box. This meant that Marta (world's best women's player) received a penalty kick and Buehler was sent off. For those of you that don't follow soccer there is no penalty box. The player is gone to Soccer purgatory, and the their team must play down one man (or woman) for the remainder of the match. Surprisingly, Marta did not take the penalty kick as Brazilian, Christiane, stepped up to try and even the match at 1. Standing in her way was arguably the best female goal tender on the planet in Hope Solo. As Christiane prepared to attempt her try, Solo bounced on her line waiting to pounce like a hungry panther. Christiane fired a rocket towards the post but Solo was there to punch it away in a miraculous fashion. I let out some type of loud WOO sound and attached a Kirk Gibson fist pump to it. I turned to my wife and explained how amazing that was. For the moment it looked like she had made the save of the tournament and that the Americans had avoided disaster. That was not the case though, as the referee ruled that the Americans encroached on the attempt and Brazil was awarded with another penalty kick. Brazil did not miss their second attempt and it looked somewhat bleak for the American ladies. They had just been basically screwed six ways to Sunday and had to play down one man for the remainder of regulation and possibly thirty minutes of extra time. This horrific call on the Hope Solo save coupled with the red card of Buehler seemed to ignite the American team. They pushed forward for the remaining regulation time and actually seemed to play better down a man. They survived regulation and headed into Extra time.
Extra time wasn't as kind to the Americans as the the last twenty minutes of regulation. Within the first two minutes Marta scored for Brazil with an effort that even your newest soccer fan would know was incredible. This put the American ladies' backs to the wall for the remainder of the extra period. They were now down one goal, down one man, and looked down and out of the World Cup. Their dream of bringing the cup back to the States for the third time seemed fleeting.
Play continued for 28 more grueling minutes. It was sizzling hot on the pitch and you could tell that the long match was starting to take its toll on the competitors. Brazil still led 2-1 as play entered the final three minutes of injury time. The American women were desperate now. They had to muster one last run to try and even this game and head to a Penalty Kick shoot out. They did just that. With about a minute remaining in their tournament lives the Americans started a run from their own goal. They moved up the pitch in three touches as the ball found Megan Rapinoe along the far side, about 30 yards from the box. Megan hesitated for a moment to allow Abby Wambach to get into position in the Brazil zone. Megan then lofted an unbelievable cross that found the head of Abby as Wambach buried a header into the net to tie the game at two. It was the latest goal ever scored in a World Cup match. The Americans had somehow found a way to send the match to Penalty Kicks.
The rest is history. Hope Solo made another huge stop in the PK round and the American women buried all of their tries to beat Brazil and move on to the Semi-Finals vs. France. It was like hitting a grand slam in the 13th inning to tie the game and then having the very next batter hit a HR to win it. Back to Back walk-off style. On a sports goose bumps scale of 1 - 10 it was a 10. It didn't matter that it was only soccer. It didn't matter that it was a woman's
As the USA Women's team heads into the Semi-Finals tomorrow vs. France I will cheer them on and hope that they bring the third Cup Championship home to the USA. I will also hope that both the Men's and Women's teams continue to gain momentum and support so that as a nation we will embrace this sport. This is the world's sport after all and it would nice to have the best nation in the world realize that.
All that was needed was some green grass, a few nets, a round ball, and some amazing athletes. Many of these people are not household names. Many of them may never be, but they sure did their best to try and catch our attention.
For those of you that somehow missed it the USA Women's National Team defeated Brazil in the 2011 Women's World Cup. It was one of the most enthralling contests I have ever had the privilege to watch. To put this in perspective I am not an avid soccer (futbol) fan. I appreciate the game. Its not easy and as Americans many of us don't quite understand it... Yet. However, on Sunday, it was the venue for amazing sports theatre.
The American women led early 1-0 due to an own goal by Brazil in the opening minutes as the Americans pressured early. After that it seemed somewhat sloppy for the next 60 minutes or so, but that's when things got real interesting. At the 65 minute mark US player, Rachel Buehler, received a red card for a penalty on Marta inside the US box. This meant that Marta (world's best women's player) received a penalty kick and Buehler was sent off. For those of you that don't follow soccer there is no penalty box. The player is gone to Soccer purgatory, and the their team must play down one man (or woman) for the remainder of the match. Surprisingly, Marta did not take the penalty kick as Brazilian, Christiane, stepped up to try and even the match at 1. Standing in her way was arguably the best female goal tender on the planet in Hope Solo. As Christiane prepared to attempt her try, Solo bounced on her line waiting to pounce like a hungry panther. Christiane fired a rocket towards the post but Solo was there to punch it away in a miraculous fashion. I let out some type of loud WOO sound and attached a Kirk Gibson fist pump to it. I turned to my wife and explained how amazing that was. For the moment it looked like she had made the save of the tournament and that the Americans had avoided disaster. That was not the case though, as the referee ruled that the Americans encroached on the attempt and Brazil was awarded with another penalty kick. Brazil did not miss their second attempt and it looked somewhat bleak for the American ladies. They had just been basically screwed six ways to Sunday and had to play down one man for the remainder of regulation and possibly thirty minutes of extra time. This horrific call on the Hope Solo save coupled with the red card of Buehler seemed to ignite the American team. They pushed forward for the remaining regulation time and actually seemed to play better down a man. They survived regulation and headed into Extra time.
Extra time wasn't as kind to the Americans as the the last twenty minutes of regulation. Within the first two minutes Marta scored for Brazil with an effort that even your newest soccer fan would know was incredible. This put the American ladies' backs to the wall for the remainder of the extra period. They were now down one goal, down one man, and looked down and out of the World Cup. Their dream of bringing the cup back to the States for the third time seemed fleeting.
Play continued for 28 more grueling minutes. It was sizzling hot on the pitch and you could tell that the long match was starting to take its toll on the competitors. Brazil still led 2-1 as play entered the final three minutes of injury time. The American women were desperate now. They had to muster one last run to try and even this game and head to a Penalty Kick shoot out. They did just that. With about a minute remaining in their tournament lives the Americans started a run from their own goal. They moved up the pitch in three touches as the ball found Megan Rapinoe along the far side, about 30 yards from the box. Megan hesitated for a moment to allow Abby Wambach to get into position in the Brazil zone. Megan then lofted an unbelievable cross that found the head of Abby as Wambach buried a header into the net to tie the game at two. It was the latest goal ever scored in a World Cup match. The Americans had somehow found a way to send the match to Penalty Kicks.
The rest is history. Hope Solo made another huge stop in the PK round and the American women buried all of their tries to beat Brazil and move on to the Semi-Finals vs. France. It was like hitting a grand slam in the 13th inning to tie the game and then having the very next batter hit a HR to win it. Back to Back walk-off style. On a sports goose bumps scale of 1 - 10 it was a 10. It didn't matter that it was only soccer. It didn't matter that it was a woman's
As the USA Women's team heads into the Semi-Finals tomorrow vs. France I will cheer them on and hope that they bring the third Cup Championship home to the USA. I will also hope that both the Men's and Women's teams continue to gain momentum and support so that as a nation we will embrace this sport. This is the world's sport after all and it would nice to have the best nation in the world realize that.
Friday, July 8, 2011
#Believeland #BatMagic #RollTribe
Ok so when I started this blog I said there might be some posts in which I am a bit hammered when I write them. This is one of those...
Tonight on the corner of Carnegie and Ontario something magical happened. One of my best friends is getting married this weekend so he decided to take 4 of the members of his wedding party to the Indians game tonight. We had great seats. Section 136, row G. The only problem with the seats was that we were behind the Toronto dugout, so there were about 12 Jays fans right in front of us. A few of these fans were pretty cool, but most were just annoying. They would stand and cheer for walks and in general were just toolbags (Yes my writing gets "authentic" after 8-10 tall ones at the "Jake"). They chirped for the entire game, until the 9th. My group stayed calm throughout the game no matter what the Jays fans said. This was a gigantic accomplishment for us as most of us are Browns season ticket holders and if you know Browns fans we don't hold back.
For 8 innings of baseball we saw the Indians play sub par defense, leave a small army on the bases, and in general hand a winnable game to the Jays. After the bottom of the 8th my friends looked at me and wondered if we should leave. For some reason I pulled a stall tactic and said we should stick around for the bottom of the 9th because the "Heart" of our order was coming up in Buck, LaPorta, and Hannahan. I cant really explain why I didn't want to leave but I just felt we had to stay.
In the top of the 9th we watched Jose Bautista absolutely defile a Tony Sipp offering deep into the left field bleachers. After the mammoth shot we chatted with a few Jays fans and contemplated leaving again. We decided we had stuck it out this long so we made a bet with ourselves. If Travis Buck made an out to start the 9th we were gone. Buck hit a single to start the inning....
We then said we wouldn't leave as long as LaPorta didn't hit into a double play. Any other outcome was fine. We were trying to make up excuses for us to stay because for some strange reason the four of us felt that leaving would be a bad decision. LaPorta ripped a double to right field....
We then stopped betting on the outcome and just stood and watched as Jack Hannahan drew a walk to load the bases. At this point I think the Jays made a pitching change as we chatted up a few of the Jays fans in front of us. We were typical Cleveland fans and talked about how it was ok and how we would blow it, but you could tell in our eyes each of us were starting to believe we actually had a shot here. As Cleveland fans we are used to the worst happening to us but we Believe anyway. We were down 4-0, but the bases were loaded and you could start to feel something in the air down at the "Jake".
With one out and the bases still loaded Asdrubal Cabrera stepped to the dish. I tweeted this..
ACab promptly ripped a single to left center to bring home our first run of the game. It was now 4-1 and nobody was sitting down except the twelve Jays fans in front of us that had run their mouth all game.
Next up was Travis Hafner. Before Hafner stepped into the batter's box "What If?" flashed ever so briefly on the jumbo tron behind the bleachers. The four of us saw the message. Something was in the air at the "Jake". If you have never experienced something like what happened tonight its hard to put into words. As a fan all you know is that you begin to feel like you were meant to be in that moment. You were meant to bring your energy to that stadium, The score (4-1 Jays) no longer matters. The momentum is 100% on your side. Something good is about to happen...you wait, beer in hand, with anticipation...
Travis Hafner digs in... The runners take their lead... The first pitch of the at bat zips towards home plate... ...... ...... ........................
SWUNG ON.... HIT HIGH!.... DEEP TO RIGHT!..... THIS BALLL.... GOOOOOOOONNNEEEE!
A MOBBING AT HOME PLATE ON A WALKOFF GRANDSLAM BY TRAVIS HAFNER!
Pure unadulterated joy breaks out in the stands. Everyone is jumping as one, people are in shock, I am standing on my seat screaming &$^@ YA! $&@! YA! The 12 Jays fans are sitting in disbelief, no longer saying a damn word. Hugs and high fives all around. They F'n did it. We knew we felt something in the air. We knew, deep down, that we should not have left this game, and by GOD we were right. It was completely unbelievable yet totally believable at the same time.
I don't know what exactly this season has in store for the people and team that resides in Cleveland, OH, but I do know this. The question, "What If?", is becoming more interesting every game.
Now its time to pass out. Go Tribe.
Tonight on the corner of Carnegie and Ontario something magical happened. One of my best friends is getting married this weekend so he decided to take 4 of the members of his wedding party to the Indians game tonight. We had great seats. Section 136, row G. The only problem with the seats was that we were behind the Toronto dugout, so there were about 12 Jays fans right in front of us. A few of these fans were pretty cool, but most were just annoying. They would stand and cheer for walks and in general were just toolbags (Yes my writing gets "authentic" after 8-10 tall ones at the "Jake"). They chirped for the entire game, until the 9th. My group stayed calm throughout the game no matter what the Jays fans said. This was a gigantic accomplishment for us as most of us are Browns season ticket holders and if you know Browns fans we don't hold back.
For 8 innings of baseball we saw the Indians play sub par defense, leave a small army on the bases, and in general hand a winnable game to the Jays. After the bottom of the 8th my friends looked at me and wondered if we should leave. For some reason I pulled a stall tactic and said we should stick around for the bottom of the 9th because the "Heart" of our order was coming up in Buck, LaPorta, and Hannahan. I cant really explain why I didn't want to leave but I just felt we had to stay.
In the top of the 9th we watched Jose Bautista absolutely defile a Tony Sipp offering deep into the left field bleachers. After the mammoth shot we chatted with a few Jays fans and contemplated leaving again. We decided we had stuck it out this long so we made a bet with ourselves. If Travis Buck made an out to start the 9th we were gone. Buck hit a single to start the inning....
We then said we wouldn't leave as long as LaPorta didn't hit into a double play. Any other outcome was fine. We were trying to make up excuses for us to stay because for some strange reason the four of us felt that leaving would be a bad decision. LaPorta ripped a double to right field....
We then stopped betting on the outcome and just stood and watched as Jack Hannahan drew a walk to load the bases. At this point I think the Jays made a pitching change as we chatted up a few of the Jays fans in front of us. We were typical Cleveland fans and talked about how it was ok and how we would blow it, but you could tell in our eyes each of us were starting to believe we actually had a shot here. As Cleveland fans we are used to the worst happening to us but we Believe anyway. We were down 4-0, but the bases were loaded and you could start to feel something in the air down at the "Jake".
With one out and the bases still loaded Asdrubal Cabrera stepped to the dish. I tweeted this..
@BurnRiverSportsBurning River Sports
ACab promptly ripped a single to left center to bring home our first run of the game. It was now 4-1 and nobody was sitting down except the twelve Jays fans in front of us that had run their mouth all game.
Next up was Travis Hafner. Before Hafner stepped into the batter's box "What If?" flashed ever so briefly on the jumbo tron behind the bleachers. The four of us saw the message. Something was in the air at the "Jake". If you have never experienced something like what happened tonight its hard to put into words. As a fan all you know is that you begin to feel like you were meant to be in that moment. You were meant to bring your energy to that stadium, The score (4-1 Jays) no longer matters. The momentum is 100% on your side. Something good is about to happen...you wait, beer in hand, with anticipation...
Travis Hafner digs in... The runners take their lead... The first pitch of the at bat zips towards home plate... ...... ...... ........................
SWUNG ON.... HIT HIGH!.... DEEP TO RIGHT!..... THIS BALLL.... GOOOOOOOONNNEEEE!
A MOBBING AT HOME PLATE ON A WALKOFF GRANDSLAM BY TRAVIS HAFNER!
@BurnRiverSportsBurning River Sports
Pure unadulterated joy breaks out in the stands. Everyone is jumping as one, people are in shock, I am standing on my seat screaming &$^@ YA! $&@! YA! The 12 Jays fans are sitting in disbelief, no longer saying a damn word. Hugs and high fives all around. They F'n did it. We knew we felt something in the air. We knew, deep down, that we should not have left this game, and by GOD we were right. It was completely unbelievable yet totally believable at the same time.
I don't know what exactly this season has in store for the people and team that resides in Cleveland, OH, but I do know this. The question, "What If?", is becoming more interesting every game.
Now its time to pass out. Go Tribe.
Monday, July 4, 2011
Tribe Provides Early 4th of July Fireworks
Another 4th of July has come and gone. This means that summer is in full swing in Cleveland, which is welcomed with open arms. When you only get 4-5 months of "nice" weather per year you really cherish days like today. Clear skies, 85 degrees, a nice breeze, and Tribe baseball.
The Tribe started a three game series today with those Damn Yankees. If you are from Cleveland you grew up hating the Steelers and the Yankees. Any good father from this town passed this sports hate down to their children. Throw in a very strong negative opinion of John Elway and you have the holy trinity of Cleveland Sports hate (I know Jordan hit the shot but its hard to hate MJ, it just is). Its always fun to see a packed house at The Jake but games against New York are just a little different. There is a buzz in the air and there are a few thousands people whose father's failed at life. They allowed their children to grow up and cheer for the Evil Empire. In my life I have attended maybe ten or so Tribe/Yankees battles on the shores of Lake Erie and I'm batting .500. That's right in about half of those I have had the honor of my group confronting one of these lost souls. Signs have been ripped, friends have been tossed into tables at the Batter's eye, a few punches have been thrown. For the record our group has never started any of these confrontations, we have never had to. You can always rely on a loud-mouthed Yankees fan to start that for you. Most of the time its when their team is losing and they can no longer stand the chants of Jeter Sucks AROD! They get a little testy. At the end of each of these melees the Yankees fans have always walked away knowing they have taken the easy road in life and I'm pretty sure have wondered why their parents didn't care about them like mine did.
I watched today's bout from a friend's house (CLE_Dawg on twitter) and tweeted during most of it. I loved watching Tomlin go 7 strong innings, AGAIN, and flirt with a no hitter. CLE_Dawg and I started looking at each other in the 5th with the old, "Hey he hasn't let up a hit yet lets not say a word" looks. That would have been one hell of a story to tell if Tomlin could have thrown the no-no. Instead we received some early 4th of July fireworks from Austin Kearns of all people.
After Tomlin gave up the no-no and two runs in the top of the 7th the Tribe came roaring back in the bottom of the 7th. The Indians had two runners on, had cut the lead to 2-1, and it was up to Austin Kearns to save the day and get a big knock. Yep, the same Austin Kearns that was hitting something like .198 coming in to the day and only had 6 extra base hits and 2 RBIs in 35 games played. My Tweets went something like this...
The Tribe started a three game series today with those Damn Yankees. If you are from Cleveland you grew up hating the Steelers and the Yankees. Any good father from this town passed this sports hate down to their children. Throw in a very strong negative opinion of John Elway and you have the holy trinity of Cleveland Sports hate (I know Jordan hit the shot but its hard to hate MJ, it just is). Its always fun to see a packed house at The Jake but games against New York are just a little different. There is a buzz in the air and there are a few thousands people whose father's failed at life. They allowed their children to grow up and cheer for the Evil Empire. In my life I have attended maybe ten or so Tribe/Yankees battles on the shores of Lake Erie and I'm batting .500. That's right in about half of those I have had the honor of my group confronting one of these lost souls. Signs have been ripped, friends have been tossed into tables at the Batter's eye, a few punches have been thrown. For the record our group has never started any of these confrontations, we have never had to. You can always rely on a loud-mouthed Yankees fan to start that for you. Most of the time its when their team is losing and they can no longer stand the chants of Jeter Sucks AROD! They get a little testy. At the end of each of these melees the Yankees fans have always walked away knowing they have taken the easy road in life and I'm pretty sure have wondered why their parents didn't care about them like mine did.
I watched today's bout from a friend's house (CLE_Dawg on twitter) and tweeted during most of it. I loved watching Tomlin go 7 strong innings, AGAIN, and flirt with a no hitter. CLE_Dawg and I started looking at each other in the 5th with the old, "Hey he hasn't let up a hit yet lets not say a word" looks. That would have been one hell of a story to tell if Tomlin could have thrown the no-no. Instead we received some early 4th of July fireworks from Austin Kearns of all people.
After Tomlin gave up the no-no and two runs in the top of the 7th the Tribe came roaring back in the bottom of the 7th. The Indians had two runners on, had cut the lead to 2-1, and it was up to Austin Kearns to save the day and get a big knock. Yep, the same Austin Kearns that was hitting something like .198 coming in to the day and only had 6 extra base hits and 2 RBIs in 35 games played. My Tweets went something like this...
@BurnRiverSportsBurning River Sports
Really its up to Austin Kearns...
Pls Walk him
@BurnRiverSportsBurning River Sports
HOLY SHIT !!!! #Tribe #Indians
I honestly couldn't believe he came through. When he hit that three run shot the living room at the house I was at erupted with cheers of disbelief. I felt good for the guy. It was really nice to see him celebrate with his teammates after his biggest hit in quite some time. Maybe this will allow him to relax a bit. Who knows, but it sure was sweet for one day. Carlos Santana added a few insurance runs, Perez came in and slammed the door in the 9th, and the Tribe delivered on the 4th of July.
After the game the wife and I packed up the dog and drove home. As we drove we could see fireworks going off in all directions. They scattered the night sky in an almost surreal way. Amongst the sound of fireworks and the soothing melody of Mumford and Sons you could find a happy Cleveland sports fan and happy American. I was proud of my team and proud of the country I live in. I am thankful for the men and women that allow us our freedoms. Without them and those before them I would not have the ability to care about more trivial things like baseball and blogging.
As I pulled into my driveway thoughts of past Indian Summers danced in my head. I swear you could faintly hear "Glory Days" by the Boss still blasting out of the ballpark speakers at The Jake. The sound skipped along on the wind for a moment as I looked up at the night sky and smiled......it indeed was a Happy 4th of July
I honestly couldn't believe he came through. When he hit that three run shot the living room at the house I was at erupted with cheers of disbelief. I felt good for the guy. It was really nice to see him celebrate with his teammates after his biggest hit in quite some time. Maybe this will allow him to relax a bit. Who knows, but it sure was sweet for one day. Carlos Santana added a few insurance runs, Perez came in and slammed the door in the 9th, and the Tribe delivered on the 4th of July.
After the game the wife and I packed up the dog and drove home. As we drove we could see fireworks going off in all directions. They scattered the night sky in an almost surreal way. Amongst the sound of fireworks and the soothing melody of Mumford and Sons you could find a happy Cleveland sports fan and happy American. I was proud of my team and proud of the country I live in. I am thankful for the men and women that allow us our freedoms. Without them and those before them I would not have the ability to care about more trivial things like baseball and blogging.
As I pulled into my driveway thoughts of past Indian Summers danced in my head. I swear you could faintly hear "Glory Days" by the Boss still blasting out of the ballpark speakers at The Jake. The sound skipped along on the wind for a moment as I looked up at the night sky and smiled......it indeed was a Happy 4th of July
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Cleveland Cavaliers Trade J.J. Hickson
Its not breaking news as any Cleveland sports fan should know that the Cavs made a trade right before the NBA locked out, however here is my take on the deal.
To recap.
The Cavs acquired Omri Casspi SF and a lottery protected 1st Rd Draft Pick from the Sacramento Kings and sent J.J. Hickson PF packing for the west coast.
My initial reaction was somewhat mixed. J.J. is only 22 years old and showed some promise in games last season. He started to really rebound towards the 2nd half of the year and also showed signs of a developing mid range jumper. When you look simply at talent I think the Cavs probably only received 75-80 cents on the dollar in this deal. However, after letting it sit in, I think ultimately this was a move that needed to happen. While J.J. could develop into something special he has some pretty drastic faults. He can't play defense without fouling his man. He can't catch the basketball when in traffic (Braylon wold be proud). His basketball IQ leaves something to be desired. As fans we could see this and it looks like the Cavs front office did too.
So instead of hanging on to J.J. and hoping these glaring weaknesses were corrected we made a deal that filled a team need in landing Omri Casspi. To say the Cavs needed a legit SF is an understatement. As much as I loved to watch Alonzo Gee and Skyenga (he sure can dunk) live out their dreams neither are even close to a starting caliber NBA player. Casspi brings a toughness this city will embrace, a decent outside jumper, and most importantly some actual NBA talent at the SF position. Will Casspi ever be an all-star? Probably not but he is young (23) and should be able to develop into a solid rotational player for the Cavs in years to come. (He is going to look great behind Harrison Barnes next year *fingers crossed*).
The Cavs also received a lottery protected 1st Rd Pick. I would have loved this deal if the pick was only Top 6 or 7 protected for the next four years instead of basically being fully protected, but its still a possible asset. When you look at the bottom line the Cavs were not going to pay J.J. the 8 to 10 million per year he would have wanted after this season. With a potential hard cap coming after a new CBA is reached, locking up potentially a fifth of your team salary in a player like Hickson just isn't smart. So instead of most likely letting J.J. walk for nothing a year from now the Cavs added a potential piece and a draft pick that could come in handy in a couple years. Until then we can root for the Kings to make the playoffs and for the Cavs young talent to show promise while the rebuilding begins.
If anyone wants a full explanation on how the protection works on the 1st Rd Pick leave a comment and I will break it down in a separate post.
To recap.
The Cavs acquired Omri Casspi SF and a lottery protected 1st Rd Draft Pick from the Sacramento Kings and sent J.J. Hickson PF packing for the west coast.
My initial reaction was somewhat mixed. J.J. is only 22 years old and showed some promise in games last season. He started to really rebound towards the 2nd half of the year and also showed signs of a developing mid range jumper. When you look simply at talent I think the Cavs probably only received 75-80 cents on the dollar in this deal. However, after letting it sit in, I think ultimately this was a move that needed to happen. While J.J. could develop into something special he has some pretty drastic faults. He can't play defense without fouling his man. He can't catch the basketball when in traffic (Braylon wold be proud). His basketball IQ leaves something to be desired. As fans we could see this and it looks like the Cavs front office did too.
So instead of hanging on to J.J. and hoping these glaring weaknesses were corrected we made a deal that filled a team need in landing Omri Casspi. To say the Cavs needed a legit SF is an understatement. As much as I loved to watch Alonzo Gee and Skyenga (he sure can dunk) live out their dreams neither are even close to a starting caliber NBA player. Casspi brings a toughness this city will embrace, a decent outside jumper, and most importantly some actual NBA talent at the SF position. Will Casspi ever be an all-star? Probably not but he is young (23) and should be able to develop into a solid rotational player for the Cavs in years to come. (He is going to look great behind Harrison Barnes next year *fingers crossed*).
The Cavs also received a lottery protected 1st Rd Pick. I would have loved this deal if the pick was only Top 6 or 7 protected for the next four years instead of basically being fully protected, but its still a possible asset. When you look at the bottom line the Cavs were not going to pay J.J. the 8 to 10 million per year he would have wanted after this season. With a potential hard cap coming after a new CBA is reached, locking up potentially a fifth of your team salary in a player like Hickson just isn't smart. So instead of most likely letting J.J. walk for nothing a year from now the Cavs added a potential piece and a draft pick that could come in handy in a couple years. Until then we can root for the Kings to make the playoffs and for the Cavs young talent to show promise while the rebuilding begins.
If anyone wants a full explanation on how the protection works on the 1st Rd Pick leave a comment and I will break it down in a separate post.
Friday, July 1, 2011
Welcome to the Burning River Sports Blog
Hello World
Many of my friends have urged me to start a sports blog. So I have finally given in and have taken the dive into the world of blogging. This blog is going to be based on Cleveland and Ohio State sports although I will dabble in anything that has to do with the great city of Cleveland from time to time. I may even go off on tangents regarding dogs and other animals since I do love my furry friends. Most of all I hope to entertain anyone that takes the few minutes to read my posts and give them insight into the twisted mind of someone that is passionate about Cleveland sports and the city itself. The 216, the place where our river once burned (hence the blog name), home of the Browns, Indians, Cavs, Monsters, Michael Symon, good food, the Rock Hall, and Cleveland Orchestra. Home of great sports history, past championships, sports misery, and some of the absolute best FANS anywhere in the world. You either love it or hate it in the 216 and as The Darkness once said... I believe in a thing called love...
If I stick with this blog I hope that I can take you on a wild ride of insight and emotion. From the joys of things like getting to the 2007 NBA Finals to the lows of blowing a 3-1 lead to Boston in the 2007 ALCS. I will most likely do a few retro blogs to give you a sense of the person I am and what I have witnessed in this city over the past 30 years. I may go off on profanity laden rants when drunk or angry. I may talk about loving puppies. Who knows. I'm hoping the randomness and spontaneity of it all will make it interesting for you.
A little about myself..... Like I said I am almost 30. Birthday coming up in August (Leo!). I have a wife (newly married, 4/30) and a great Siberian Husky. Outside of living and dying with Cleveland sports I enjoy playing computer/video games (Nerd!!), playing poker (Tilt!), enjoying a libation or 10 (Lush!), playing fantasy sports, playing volleyball, softball, flag football (West 14th League / Cleveland Plays!), and eating the good food CLE has to offer (Fatty!). You will probably end up reading a post on one or all of these topics over time.
For now though I will leave you with just a taste of the sports mind I have. If anyone is actually reading this I'm sure you have heard or seen one of the new Cleveland Indians commercials for this season. Whether it be the Established in 1901 ads or the "What If" ads. Every time those commercials come on the TV or Radio I tell my wife to stop talking, my dog to stop barking, and I just turn up the volume a little bit. I sit and I listen to every word.... to every description. What if 1948 never happened.... what if we never knew a guy named Robert Feller... what if Larry Doby wasn't strong and we as a city didn't embrace....what if Len wasn't perfect on a dreary CLE night in 1981...what if the 90s were just the 90s....and there was no magic in the air at the Jake. I picture in my mind each one of those moments whether I was alive or not. I picture being at the Jake for numerous walk off home runs. I remember high fiving random strangers as a teenager and jumping in piles of happy people on the grassy knoll between the Q and The Jake as Albert Belle blasted walk-off game winners. I can hear Tom Hamilton's voice as he makes home run calls (A swing and a drive! waaaayyyy back... GONE!). I remember setting up a make shift JoBu shrine out of one of those weird troll dolls, a Cory Snyder Starting Lineup figure, and some of my parents rum in 95 and praying to it every night. I remember our improbable run in 2007 and I as I recall all of these things the hair on my arm stands up a little straighter, my heart beats a little faster, and my hope grows for a Cleveland championship a little more each and every time those commercials come on. I normally pound the dash a little or the couch and whisper every so slightly.... What If?
What if will happen someday. For me. For my friends. For my city. Hopefully Ill be able to share that moment with all of you.
Welcome to Burning River Sports Blog. Enjoy the ride.
Many of my friends have urged me to start a sports blog. So I have finally given in and have taken the dive into the world of blogging. This blog is going to be based on Cleveland and Ohio State sports although I will dabble in anything that has to do with the great city of Cleveland from time to time. I may even go off on tangents regarding dogs and other animals since I do love my furry friends. Most of all I hope to entertain anyone that takes the few minutes to read my posts and give them insight into the twisted mind of someone that is passionate about Cleveland sports and the city itself. The 216, the place where our river once burned (hence the blog name), home of the Browns, Indians, Cavs, Monsters, Michael Symon, good food, the Rock Hall, and Cleveland Orchestra. Home of great sports history, past championships, sports misery, and some of the absolute best FANS anywhere in the world. You either love it or hate it in the 216 and as The Darkness once said... I believe in a thing called love...
If I stick with this blog I hope that I can take you on a wild ride of insight and emotion. From the joys of things like getting to the 2007 NBA Finals to the lows of blowing a 3-1 lead to Boston in the 2007 ALCS. I will most likely do a few retro blogs to give you a sense of the person I am and what I have witnessed in this city over the past 30 years. I may go off on profanity laden rants when drunk or angry. I may talk about loving puppies. Who knows. I'm hoping the randomness and spontaneity of it all will make it interesting for you.
A little about myself..... Like I said I am almost 30. Birthday coming up in August (Leo!). I have a wife (newly married, 4/30) and a great Siberian Husky. Outside of living and dying with Cleveland sports I enjoy playing computer/video games (Nerd!!), playing poker (Tilt!), enjoying a libation or 10 (Lush!), playing fantasy sports, playing volleyball, softball, flag football (West 14th League / Cleveland Plays!), and eating the good food CLE has to offer (Fatty!). You will probably end up reading a post on one or all of these topics over time.
For now though I will leave you with just a taste of the sports mind I have. If anyone is actually reading this I'm sure you have heard or seen one of the new Cleveland Indians commercials for this season. Whether it be the Established in 1901 ads or the "What If" ads. Every time those commercials come on the TV or Radio I tell my wife to stop talking, my dog to stop barking, and I just turn up the volume a little bit. I sit and I listen to every word.... to every description. What if 1948 never happened.... what if we never knew a guy named Robert Feller... what if Larry Doby wasn't strong and we as a city didn't embrace....what if Len wasn't perfect on a dreary CLE night in 1981...what if the 90s were just the 90s....and there was no magic in the air at the Jake. I picture in my mind each one of those moments whether I was alive or not. I picture being at the Jake for numerous walk off home runs. I remember high fiving random strangers as a teenager and jumping in piles of happy people on the grassy knoll between the Q and The Jake as Albert Belle blasted walk-off game winners. I can hear Tom Hamilton's voice as he makes home run calls (A swing and a drive! waaaayyyy back... GONE!). I remember setting up a make shift JoBu shrine out of one of those weird troll dolls, a Cory Snyder Starting Lineup figure, and some of my parents rum in 95 and praying to it every night. I remember our improbable run in 2007 and I as I recall all of these things the hair on my arm stands up a little straighter, my heart beats a little faster, and my hope grows for a Cleveland championship a little more each and every time those commercials come on. I normally pound the dash a little or the couch and whisper every so slightly.... What If?
What if will happen someday. For me. For my friends. For my city. Hopefully Ill be able to share that moment with all of you.
Welcome to Burning River Sports Blog. Enjoy the ride.
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