The last issue of The Comment Newspaper sports section will feature: Previews for the MASCAC Tournament for both Baseball and Softball teams. An article on Tennis Star Matt Charest, and possibly some weightlifting and intramural stuff as well.
Keep your eyes open on blogs concerning the Red Sox, Randy Moss, and some views about the month of April in baseball.
Monday, April 30, 2007
Friday, April 27, 2007
Predicting the draft
Steven M. Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-I was talking with the Editor & Chief yesterday evening and he said that it was going to be a wild and wacky draft. The bottom line is there is a lot of depth with the defensive players in the draft, but not a lot of quality quarterbacks, running backs, or recievers. Everyone pays attention to those players because their names are always mentioned more times than the "Ouuuur Country" commercial comes on the air. Plus you have to add in the fantasy football factor in there as well. Of course, if you follow your team religiously, you follow and watch all 255 picks when they happen, or you just know your football, what I said has no impact on your view of things. Then again, if you know who wide reciver Kevin McMahan is, you know exactly what im talking about here.
I think this draft will be different. This year the teams have needs that are spelled out in plain letters. For instance, we look at the New England Patriots with two first round picks. They could use another offensive lineman, or they could use some younger talent at saftey, corner, or the MLB or ILB positions. Or as my buddy Adam says, they will trade down to get a second rounder this year and another draft pick next year. Even though the Pats dont have a second round pick (they traded it away to Miami when they tendered Wes Welker to a contract), their needs are clearly spelled out. This is why I think fewer than 3 teams are going to trade down or up to pick. But as John Clayton notes at point 6, there are a lot of players on the trading block. Then again, I could be completely wrong. But, I do recall saying that Reggie Bush wasn't going to be the #1 pick in February, so we'll see what happens.
And so without further ado I bring you my "Sweet 16:"
[Note: I'm also listing my Pats pick predictions, a couple of notable names and when they will be drafted and by who along with the dark horse candidate of the draft. Enjoy]
The Sweet 16:
Pick #1, Oakland Raiders-
The Raiders have the following three options:
1) They trade their pick away.
-Thoughts- Realistically the chances of this happening are pretty slim to none. I dont think this is going to even remotely happen. The Raiders have the chance to add an impact player to their roster and there is no way this is going to happen. Lindsey Lohan will pose in the nude for Playboy Magazine before the Raiders trade away this pick.
2) They draft JaMarcus Russell.
-Thoughts- The bottom line is that the Raiders passed on quarterbacks in last years draft. Now they need the most important position on the field to help them get some credibility back into their organization. With Art Shell at the helm, the Raiders were a laughingstock of the league. Thanks to a great point by Bill Simmons, I could have probaby paid for a years worth of college and a new car (that I desperately need) after betting on the 2-14 Oakland Raiders (if gambling in fact were legal).
Russell is, of course, the kind of impact player that they could use to build around with some experience. He comes from an LSU squad that lost a close one to Auburn (7-3 in the beginning of the season), got killed 23-10 by national champion Florida, and handled Notre Dame (who was overrated anyway) in the Sugar Bowl. The SEC has been known as one of the conferences that produces the best players for the NFL and year after year produces outstanding football teams. I would like to point out that because of this Russell has the edge over a lot of players because of his experience level. He also led his team down the field with a 2-minute drill in a must win 28-24 game over Tennessee last season. Someone who shows poise and leadership on the field is what you want to see in a young quarterback.
But the question is, do the Raiders throw him into the fire early, or sign a veteran for a one-year deal to bridge the gap. Whats this now, did I hear that Bledsoe's coming out of retirement now?
3) They draft Calvin Johnson.
-Thoughts- Lets face it, the Raiders offense just plain sucked last year. They started three quarterbacks that combined for 8 TD's and 28 INT's. Their enemic offense scored a league worst 10.5 points per game, gained a whopping 248 yards per game and completed a third down 37% of the time (19th in NFL). And they did this with Randy Moss on their team. While Moss and Rice were at one time in the same sentence, at age 30 he is still one of the best wide recievers in the NFL.
Then again, Moss is still double covered more times than there are Bengals players who got arrested, indited or put into prison, but this is another ball of wax. But my point is, this is the reason why its nessesary to draft one of the most talented wide recievers out of college. If you have Moss and Johnson to cover, thats one big problem for opposing secondaries. In all three years that Johnson was in the ACC he made the first team and this year he won the MVP award. While you can never judge someone by their collegiate career, Johnson is the imacpt player that the Raiders need to jumpstart thier sluggish offense. He's the kind of person that could spread the field and create running-passing lanes for LaMont Jordan. Of course, for this to work the Raiders need to sign, trade for, or draft a quarterback. There are veterans availible and with one of thier picks I see them doing this tomorrow. Trent Green is on the block, I think. And, of course, Vinnie Testaverde is still a free agent. Let the bidding war begin.
-Prediction- Calvin Johnson
Pick #2, Detriot Lions
-If the Raiders pick Russell with the first pick, they arent drafting Johnson; that would mean that they would have picked four recievers with their first round pick in the last five years. Their starting quarterback is Jon Kitna and for the time being they will stick with him to start. After all, he did pass for a whopping 4,000 yards. But, they want someone in the wings to replace Kitna eventually and Russell is just the kind of player to do that. The Lions will get more depth with players in the lower rounds.
-Pick- JaMarcus Russell
Pick #3, Cleveland Browns
-I dont know about you but the Browns are in quite the pickle. Cleveland ranked a 31st with a running offense of 85 yards per game. They also might want to replace Charlie Frye who was decent at best. So who do the Browns draft? Do they replace Rueben Droughns with college football star Adrian Peterson or do they draft Indiana's favorite son Brady Quinn? Its just the pickle that will either make or break Romeo Crennels idea for "rebuilding" the Browns. I think that all Braylon Edwards and Joe Jurevicius need is a competent quarterback to get the Browns to a .500 record this year. Wait, what am I talking about, the Browns suck every year, so expect Quinn to get drafted and Crennel to get fired. Wow, and I thought George W. Bush had his problems.
-Pick- Brady Quinn
Pick #4, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
-The bottom line here is the Buccs need some help on their offensive line. Watch out for them to draft a lot of younger defensive players. I say 3/4's of the picks they make will be at least a position player for the defensive line-LB corps-saftey-corner. They really need some youth here.
-Pick- Joe Thomas
Pick #5, Arizona Cardinals
-On the ESPN interactive mock draft, Pasquarelli has the Cards taking Jamaal Anderson. I think this is just the perfect move for the Cardinals as well. Defense is the way to go, now that their offensive situation is finally going to look better in the next couple of years. Expect an offensive lineman second-third round.
-Pick- Jamaal Anderson
Pick #6, Washington Redskins
-Speaking of the ESPN interactive draft, they have Louisvilles Amobi Okoye going at this slot, but the 'Skins are going to want to draft Clemson's Gaines Adams, to shore up their defensive line. Adams was the ACC Defensive Player of the year and draws rave reviews as a top ten player in this draft. CBS Sportsline even has him going #2 to the Lions, as a matter of fact. Washington wants an explosive player who will help their defense now, not Okoye whos going to be good in a couple of years once he matures.
-Pick- Gaines Adams
Pick #7, Minnesota Vikings
-I'd like to know how Adrian Peterson fell down this far. Of course Cleveland could have taken him to replace an ineffective Droughns, but they need a quarterback. Quinn was just the kind of person they needed to get people back into the stadium.
I cant begin to tell you how many reports ive read about Petersons health this week. There are more reports about this issue than there are more Google news hits covering this issue than there were for the death of David Halberstram.
Peterson is probably one of the most hyped up players in this draft that is going to take a hit because of his collarbone issue. But the Vikings idea here is to draft him and replace Chester Taylor. While Taylor got the job done here, Petersons speed is perfect for Brad Childress and his West Coast offense.
Look for the Vikings to draft a quarterback in the later rounds. But Brad Johnsons job is safe, for now.
-Pick- Adrian Peterson
Pick #8, Atlanta Falcons
-Once again I differ to the ESPN mock draft that has LaRon Landry going in this spot and I concurr. The Falcons could use an impact saftey for their secondary and Landry is a good fit. ESPN notes that he is also the "best defensive player in the entire draft" and while this point is debatable you take him now before another team trades up to get him.
Pick- LaRon Landry
Pick #9, Miami Dolphins
-No analysis here just strait picking OT Levi Brown. The Dolphins could use another offensive lineman. Protection for an ailing Culpepper is key if fantasy owners want to see him last another full season.
-Pick- Levi Brown
Pick #10, Houston Texans
-I think the Texans are still in rebuilding mode and will be contender in a couple of years. The Editor-in-Chief reminded me last night that they signed Matt Shaubb for the long-term and signed Ahman Green for a couple of years. I think that the Texans are going with Amobi Okoye because hes going to be one of the better defensive tackles in the league in a few years. But the thing about him (as this Globe article notes) hes a young kid. Teams could see this as untapped potential or maybe just a raw rookie. I think the Redskins could have drafted him earlier, but the Redskins are really aggressive with impact players and dont want to take their time with Okoye. Thats why the Texans are going to sweep in and make last years pick (Domanick Williams) look better because their defensive line will be formidable in a few years. Look for them to draft linebackers-saftey-offensive line with the rest of their picks.
Pick- Amobi Okoye
Pick #11, San Francisco 49ers
-San Fran was a real surprise this year. I would like to note that quarterback Alex Smith has seemed to mature really well and the team will only get better this year (and people said Antonio Bryant was a bust). Last years pick of Vernon Davis will pay dividends down the road and maybe the 49ers can get past .500 this year. While I dont think this is going to happen, my prediction is that they will turn to the defensive side of the ball and draft linebacker Patrick Willis. Willis is just the kind of impact defensive player that could help out a rebuilding San Fran team.
-Pick- Patrick Willis
Pick #12, Buffalo Bills
-The Bills lost Nate Clements to free agency (San Fran) and they will look to saftey Reggie Nelson to replace him. Of course, they could have drafted Hall, but Nelson was a great cover saftey for Florida last year, and he cannot be passed up. With the Pats revamping their passing game, Miami getting Culpepper back, and Pennington in a bounceback year, the Bills want to win an AFC East game this year. While this last point may be the last thing on thier agenda, they want to replace the gaping hole they lost with Clements and Nelson is their man.
-Pick- Leon Hall
Pick #13, St Louis Rams
-I differ to the ESPN draft once again and will go with Darrelle Revis. The Rams are not known for their secondary and what a great place to start with Revis. ESPN notes, "They might consider wide receiver Robert Meachem, but Revis will pair with last year's first-round pick, Tye Hill, to give the Rams a solid secondary for years to come." Of course, they could always replace the aging Issac Bruce, but hes got one more year left in him, right?
-Pick- Darrelle Revis
Pick #14, Carolina Panthers
-The Panthers defense is solid year-in and year-out and corner Leon Hall is just the depth they would like to see on their team. Hall was spectacular in his senior season at Michigan with 35 tackles 18 pass breakups (Junior season- 61 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 INT's). But, they could always trade down or pick a wide-reciever with this slot too. I would laugh my rear end off if Keyshawn Johnson saw his replacement get drafted right before his very eyes, on national TV. Now thats unintentional comedy at its finest right there.
-Pick- Leon Hall
Pick #15, Pittsburg Steelers
-What city has the same colors for all four major sports? That's right its Pittsburg, or at least it was the last time I checked out the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates, and wait they dont have an NBA team. Guess its only three teams then. Oh and by the way the Steelers are picking Adam Carriker.
-Pick- Adam Carriker
Pick #16, Green Bay Packers
-If you have read this far down thanks for sticking it out. I could have ended the predictions at #10, but thats no fun. I had to get it in somehow that the Packers are going to draft Marshawn Lynch. As I noted earlier, the Texans signed Ahman Green, which leaves Vernard Mourency as the starting tailback. At home your going, who the heck is Mourency? Exactly, some no name running back that just happens to be listed as the #1 running back for Green Bay. I thought so, you like my pick with Lynch Packers fans. Then again, you all are cheese-heads anyway.
Of course, the Packers could always draft a wide-receiver to compliment Donald Driver and Jennings, but they wont do that. They could always draft a player on defense, and then hold off until the second round to draft Micheal Bush, but I dont think thats going happen either.
-Pick- Marshawn Lynch
Pats Picks:
-#24- Micheal Griffin/ Brandon Merriweather
-Thoughts- Lets face it, Rodney Harrison has become injury prone. Im not disrespecting him in anyway with this point here, but thats now two injuries to one of the key players in the secondary in two years. While he looks to bounce back this year, look for the Pats to draft a saftey to fill the void and get some depth for thier secondary. They want an impact player right from the get-go and I say Griffin is thier man. I also list Merriweather too because he's an impressive prospect and he (as well as Griffin) play special teams. I really could go either way on this one.
-#28- David Harris/Paul Posluszny
-Thoughts- I am torn between these two players. I remember last years Orange Bowl (Penn State vs Florida State) and I told myself to remember Posluszny's name because hes just the kind of person the Pats look for. Then he got carted off the field in the fourth quarter, which was a shame. But, I think hes a player that the Pats want to help out their linebacking corps. I could go with Harris too because he's a really good MLB that could replace Teddy Bruschi when its time for him to hang up the cleats (a thought im not ready to digest as of yet). The linebacking corps is an issue that needs to be adressed because its the oldest position on the field.
-Another point-The Pats could also target an offensive lineman like Ryan Kalil, but hes going in the top 25. He's a good player and wont last very long, unless he falls. Pats will have decisions to make with this pick. I still am going with the linebacker pick here though. Im just throwing this out there as well.
-Noteables:
QB-
-Troy Smith- Third/Fourth round
-Random point- Imagine how high Troy Smith would be on this list if Ohio State had won the National Championship game. Imagine how much higher he would have been if he actually had come back to rally from a 20 point halftime deficit. I remind you this kid won the Heisman and he's getting picked in the Third-Fourth round? There's something seriously wrong here.
-Drew Stanton- Third/Fourth
RB's
-Micheal Bush- Second round
-Antonio Pittman- Second round
-Darius Walker- Third round
WR's
-Ted Ginn Jr- First round
-Gonzales- Second round
-Dwayne Jarrett- First round- Chargers 30th pick
TE
-Greg Olson- First round (ESPN.com says the Jets)
-Dark Horse pick of the draft- Jared Zabranski
-I am in absolutle shock when I dont see his name on any top 10 qb prospect lists on ESPN.com. Im just shocked and appalled. I think that this kid could be a very good quarterback in a few years on the right team, with the right system, and the right recievers. Wikipedia notes that he was the fastest QB at the combine with a 4.58 in the 40 time and tied for first with quarterbacks in the shuttle time.
Look for this kid to be an under the radar pick in the fourth-fifth round. This kid is a leader on the field that showed what kind of quarterback he can be on national TV in the Fiesta Bowl. In one of the best games in the last 10 years in college football he led his team to a victory in overtime over the Big 12 Champion, Oklahoma.
Once again, while there is no indication that success in college means success in the NFL, the same case applies here. We'll see what happens in a few years. Of course, he could ride the pine for the next five years and then well, id be shit out of luck with this pick. But remember, dont ask me who's on the cover of NCAA 2008 this year, because I just told you.
-Enjoy the draft
-I was talking with the Editor & Chief yesterday evening and he said that it was going to be a wild and wacky draft. The bottom line is there is a lot of depth with the defensive players in the draft, but not a lot of quality quarterbacks, running backs, or recievers. Everyone pays attention to those players because their names are always mentioned more times than the "Ouuuur Country" commercial comes on the air. Plus you have to add in the fantasy football factor in there as well. Of course, if you follow your team religiously, you follow and watch all 255 picks when they happen, or you just know your football, what I said has no impact on your view of things. Then again, if you know who wide reciver Kevin McMahan is, you know exactly what im talking about here.
I think this draft will be different. This year the teams have needs that are spelled out in plain letters. For instance, we look at the New England Patriots with two first round picks. They could use another offensive lineman, or they could use some younger talent at saftey, corner, or the MLB or ILB positions. Or as my buddy Adam says, they will trade down to get a second rounder this year and another draft pick next year. Even though the Pats dont have a second round pick (they traded it away to Miami when they tendered Wes Welker to a contract), their needs are clearly spelled out. This is why I think fewer than 3 teams are going to trade down or up to pick. But as John Clayton notes at point 6, there are a lot of players on the trading block. Then again, I could be completely wrong. But, I do recall saying that Reggie Bush wasn't going to be the #1 pick in February, so we'll see what happens.
And so without further ado I bring you my "Sweet 16:"
[Note: I'm also listing my Pats pick predictions, a couple of notable names and when they will be drafted and by who along with the dark horse candidate of the draft. Enjoy]
The Sweet 16:
Pick #1, Oakland Raiders-
The Raiders have the following three options:
1) They trade their pick away.
-Thoughts- Realistically the chances of this happening are pretty slim to none. I dont think this is going to even remotely happen. The Raiders have the chance to add an impact player to their roster and there is no way this is going to happen. Lindsey Lohan will pose in the nude for Playboy Magazine before the Raiders trade away this pick.
2) They draft JaMarcus Russell.
-Thoughts- The bottom line is that the Raiders passed on quarterbacks in last years draft. Now they need the most important position on the field to help them get some credibility back into their organization. With Art Shell at the helm, the Raiders were a laughingstock of the league. Thanks to a great point by Bill Simmons, I could have probaby paid for a years worth of college and a new car (that I desperately need) after betting on the 2-14 Oakland Raiders (if gambling in fact were legal).
Russell is, of course, the kind of impact player that they could use to build around with some experience. He comes from an LSU squad that lost a close one to Auburn (7-3 in the beginning of the season), got killed 23-10 by national champion Florida, and handled Notre Dame (who was overrated anyway) in the Sugar Bowl. The SEC has been known as one of the conferences that produces the best players for the NFL and year after year produces outstanding football teams. I would like to point out that because of this Russell has the edge over a lot of players because of his experience level. He also led his team down the field with a 2-minute drill in a must win 28-24 game over Tennessee last season. Someone who shows poise and leadership on the field is what you want to see in a young quarterback.
But the question is, do the Raiders throw him into the fire early, or sign a veteran for a one-year deal to bridge the gap. Whats this now, did I hear that Bledsoe's coming out of retirement now?
3) They draft Calvin Johnson.
-Thoughts- Lets face it, the Raiders offense just plain sucked last year. They started three quarterbacks that combined for 8 TD's and 28 INT's. Their enemic offense scored a league worst 10.5 points per game, gained a whopping 248 yards per game and completed a third down 37% of the time (19th in NFL). And they did this with Randy Moss on their team. While Moss and Rice were at one time in the same sentence, at age 30 he is still one of the best wide recievers in the NFL.
Then again, Moss is still double covered more times than there are Bengals players who got arrested, indited or put into prison, but this is another ball of wax. But my point is, this is the reason why its nessesary to draft one of the most talented wide recievers out of college. If you have Moss and Johnson to cover, thats one big problem for opposing secondaries. In all three years that Johnson was in the ACC he made the first team and this year he won the MVP award. While you can never judge someone by their collegiate career, Johnson is the imacpt player that the Raiders need to jumpstart thier sluggish offense. He's the kind of person that could spread the field and create running-passing lanes for LaMont Jordan. Of course, for this to work the Raiders need to sign, trade for, or draft a quarterback. There are veterans availible and with one of thier picks I see them doing this tomorrow. Trent Green is on the block, I think. And, of course, Vinnie Testaverde is still a free agent. Let the bidding war begin.
-Prediction- Calvin Johnson
Pick #2, Detriot Lions
-If the Raiders pick Russell with the first pick, they arent drafting Johnson; that would mean that they would have picked four recievers with their first round pick in the last five years. Their starting quarterback is Jon Kitna and for the time being they will stick with him to start. After all, he did pass for a whopping 4,000 yards. But, they want someone in the wings to replace Kitna eventually and Russell is just the kind of player to do that. The Lions will get more depth with players in the lower rounds.
-Pick- JaMarcus Russell
Pick #3, Cleveland Browns
-I dont know about you but the Browns are in quite the pickle. Cleveland ranked a 31st with a running offense of 85 yards per game. They also might want to replace Charlie Frye who was decent at best. So who do the Browns draft? Do they replace Rueben Droughns with college football star Adrian Peterson or do they draft Indiana's favorite son Brady Quinn? Its just the pickle that will either make or break Romeo Crennels idea for "rebuilding" the Browns. I think that all Braylon Edwards and Joe Jurevicius need is a competent quarterback to get the Browns to a .500 record this year. Wait, what am I talking about, the Browns suck every year, so expect Quinn to get drafted and Crennel to get fired. Wow, and I thought George W. Bush had his problems.
-Pick- Brady Quinn
Pick #4, Tampa Bay Buccaneers
-The bottom line here is the Buccs need some help on their offensive line. Watch out for them to draft a lot of younger defensive players. I say 3/4's of the picks they make will be at least a position player for the defensive line-LB corps-saftey-corner. They really need some youth here.
-Pick- Joe Thomas
Pick #5, Arizona Cardinals
-On the ESPN interactive mock draft, Pasquarelli has the Cards taking Jamaal Anderson. I think this is just the perfect move for the Cardinals as well. Defense is the way to go, now that their offensive situation is finally going to look better in the next couple of years. Expect an offensive lineman second-third round.
-Pick- Jamaal Anderson
Pick #6, Washington Redskins
-Speaking of the ESPN interactive draft, they have Louisvilles Amobi Okoye going at this slot, but the 'Skins are going to want to draft Clemson's Gaines Adams, to shore up their defensive line. Adams was the ACC Defensive Player of the year and draws rave reviews as a top ten player in this draft. CBS Sportsline even has him going #2 to the Lions, as a matter of fact. Washington wants an explosive player who will help their defense now, not Okoye whos going to be good in a couple of years once he matures.
-Pick- Gaines Adams
Pick #7, Minnesota Vikings
-I'd like to know how Adrian Peterson fell down this far. Of course Cleveland could have taken him to replace an ineffective Droughns, but they need a quarterback. Quinn was just the kind of person they needed to get people back into the stadium.
I cant begin to tell you how many reports ive read about Petersons health this week. There are more reports about this issue than there are more Google news hits covering this issue than there were for the death of David Halberstram.
Peterson is probably one of the most hyped up players in this draft that is going to take a hit because of his collarbone issue. But the Vikings idea here is to draft him and replace Chester Taylor. While Taylor got the job done here, Petersons speed is perfect for Brad Childress and his West Coast offense.
Look for the Vikings to draft a quarterback in the later rounds. But Brad Johnsons job is safe, for now.
-Pick- Adrian Peterson
Pick #8, Atlanta Falcons
-Once again I differ to the ESPN mock draft that has LaRon Landry going in this spot and I concurr. The Falcons could use an impact saftey for their secondary and Landry is a good fit. ESPN notes that he is also the "best defensive player in the entire draft" and while this point is debatable you take him now before another team trades up to get him.
Pick- LaRon Landry
Pick #9, Miami Dolphins
-No analysis here just strait picking OT Levi Brown. The Dolphins could use another offensive lineman. Protection for an ailing Culpepper is key if fantasy owners want to see him last another full season.
-Pick- Levi Brown
Pick #10, Houston Texans
-I think the Texans are still in rebuilding mode and will be contender in a couple of years. The Editor-in-Chief reminded me last night that they signed Matt Shaubb for the long-term and signed Ahman Green for a couple of years. I think that the Texans are going with Amobi Okoye because hes going to be one of the better defensive tackles in the league in a few years. But the thing about him (as this Globe article notes) hes a young kid. Teams could see this as untapped potential or maybe just a raw rookie. I think the Redskins could have drafted him earlier, but the Redskins are really aggressive with impact players and dont want to take their time with Okoye. Thats why the Texans are going to sweep in and make last years pick (Domanick Williams) look better because their defensive line will be formidable in a few years. Look for them to draft linebackers-saftey-offensive line with the rest of their picks.
Pick- Amobi Okoye
Pick #11, San Francisco 49ers
-San Fran was a real surprise this year. I would like to note that quarterback Alex Smith has seemed to mature really well and the team will only get better this year (and people said Antonio Bryant was a bust). Last years pick of Vernon Davis will pay dividends down the road and maybe the 49ers can get past .500 this year. While I dont think this is going to happen, my prediction is that they will turn to the defensive side of the ball and draft linebacker Patrick Willis. Willis is just the kind of impact defensive player that could help out a rebuilding San Fran team.
-Pick- Patrick Willis
Pick #12, Buffalo Bills
-The Bills lost Nate Clements to free agency (San Fran) and they will look to saftey Reggie Nelson to replace him. Of course, they could have drafted Hall, but Nelson was a great cover saftey for Florida last year, and he cannot be passed up. With the Pats revamping their passing game, Miami getting Culpepper back, and Pennington in a bounceback year, the Bills want to win an AFC East game this year. While this last point may be the last thing on thier agenda, they want to replace the gaping hole they lost with Clements and Nelson is their man.
-Pick- Leon Hall
Pick #13, St Louis Rams
-I differ to the ESPN draft once again and will go with Darrelle Revis. The Rams are not known for their secondary and what a great place to start with Revis. ESPN notes, "They might consider wide receiver Robert Meachem, but Revis will pair with last year's first-round pick, Tye Hill, to give the Rams a solid secondary for years to come." Of course, they could always replace the aging Issac Bruce, but hes got one more year left in him, right?
-Pick- Darrelle Revis
Pick #14, Carolina Panthers
-The Panthers defense is solid year-in and year-out and corner Leon Hall is just the depth they would like to see on their team. Hall was spectacular in his senior season at Michigan with 35 tackles 18 pass breakups (Junior season- 61 tackles, 2 sacks, 4 INT's). But, they could always trade down or pick a wide-reciever with this slot too. I would laugh my rear end off if Keyshawn Johnson saw his replacement get drafted right before his very eyes, on national TV. Now thats unintentional comedy at its finest right there.
-Pick- Leon Hall
Pick #15, Pittsburg Steelers
-What city has the same colors for all four major sports? That's right its Pittsburg, or at least it was the last time I checked out the Steelers, Penguins, Pirates, and wait they dont have an NBA team. Guess its only three teams then. Oh and by the way the Steelers are picking Adam Carriker.
-Pick- Adam Carriker
Pick #16, Green Bay Packers
-If you have read this far down thanks for sticking it out. I could have ended the predictions at #10, but thats no fun. I had to get it in somehow that the Packers are going to draft Marshawn Lynch. As I noted earlier, the Texans signed Ahman Green, which leaves Vernard Mourency as the starting tailback. At home your going, who the heck is Mourency? Exactly, some no name running back that just happens to be listed as the #1 running back for Green Bay. I thought so, you like my pick with Lynch Packers fans. Then again, you all are cheese-heads anyway.
Of course, the Packers could always draft a wide-receiver to compliment Donald Driver and Jennings, but they wont do that. They could always draft a player on defense, and then hold off until the second round to draft Micheal Bush, but I dont think thats going happen either.
-Pick- Marshawn Lynch
Pats Picks:
-#24- Micheal Griffin/ Brandon Merriweather
-Thoughts- Lets face it, Rodney Harrison has become injury prone. Im not disrespecting him in anyway with this point here, but thats now two injuries to one of the key players in the secondary in two years. While he looks to bounce back this year, look for the Pats to draft a saftey to fill the void and get some depth for thier secondary. They want an impact player right from the get-go and I say Griffin is thier man. I also list Merriweather too because he's an impressive prospect and he (as well as Griffin) play special teams. I really could go either way on this one.
-#28- David Harris/Paul Posluszny
-Thoughts- I am torn between these two players. I remember last years Orange Bowl (Penn State vs Florida State) and I told myself to remember Posluszny's name because hes just the kind of person the Pats look for. Then he got carted off the field in the fourth quarter, which was a shame. But, I think hes a player that the Pats want to help out their linebacking corps. I could go with Harris too because he's a really good MLB that could replace Teddy Bruschi when its time for him to hang up the cleats (a thought im not ready to digest as of yet). The linebacking corps is an issue that needs to be adressed because its the oldest position on the field.
-Another point-The Pats could also target an offensive lineman like Ryan Kalil, but hes going in the top 25. He's a good player and wont last very long, unless he falls. Pats will have decisions to make with this pick. I still am going with the linebacker pick here though. Im just throwing this out there as well.
-Noteables:
QB-
-Troy Smith- Third/Fourth round
-Random point- Imagine how high Troy Smith would be on this list if Ohio State had won the National Championship game. Imagine how much higher he would have been if he actually had come back to rally from a 20 point halftime deficit. I remind you this kid won the Heisman and he's getting picked in the Third-Fourth round? There's something seriously wrong here.
-Drew Stanton- Third/Fourth
RB's
-Micheal Bush- Second round
-Antonio Pittman- Second round
-Darius Walker- Third round
WR's
-Ted Ginn Jr- First round
-Gonzales- Second round
-Dwayne Jarrett- First round- Chargers 30th pick
TE
-Greg Olson- First round (ESPN.com says the Jets)
-Dark Horse pick of the draft- Jared Zabranski
-I am in absolutle shock when I dont see his name on any top 10 qb prospect lists on ESPN.com. Im just shocked and appalled. I think that this kid could be a very good quarterback in a few years on the right team, with the right system, and the right recievers. Wikipedia notes that he was the fastest QB at the combine with a 4.58 in the 40 time and tied for first with quarterbacks in the shuttle time.
Look for this kid to be an under the radar pick in the fourth-fifth round. This kid is a leader on the field that showed what kind of quarterback he can be on national TV in the Fiesta Bowl. In one of the best games in the last 10 years in college football he led his team to a victory in overtime over the Big 12 Champion, Oklahoma.
Once again, while there is no indication that success in college means success in the NFL, the same case applies here. We'll see what happens in a few years. Of course, he could ride the pine for the next five years and then well, id be shit out of luck with this pick. But remember, dont ask me who's on the cover of NCAA 2008 this year, because I just told you.
-Enjoy the draft
Saturday, April 21, 2007
Quadruple Header this afternoon
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-In what appears to be a very busy afternoon at Bridgewater State today, there are four different games going on at the same time. It is supposed to be a beautiful day today here in Bridgewater. Weather.com reports that the high will be 68 degrees with a low of 41 (tonight). The wind comes in from the NE at 5-10 MPH. We will run them off for you with a couple of notes:
-The pregame for the Bridgewater State baseball game is right below this post.
-The Bridgewater State softball team will be playing a double header versus Fitchburg State today. Fitchburg brings a 3-3 MASCAC record (11-14 overall) to the game, and is in third place in the league. Bridgewater State remains tied with Westfield State at 6-0 for the top spot in the league standings.
At this time we are unsure who the starters will be for the Bears. Coach Janet McGuire does not announce starters for the games because she wants to see what shes up against before the games take place.
The game starts at noontime at Alumni Field.
-The Bridgewater State tennis team plays the second of the three league games they have scheduled this weekend. They play at home today versus Salem State College starting at noontime. The Bears are 2-1 in the Little East Conference and 4-1 overall. Salem State is 2-3 in the LEC (4-5 overall) and plays their last game of the regular season today.
Over the past week the Bears dropped a 0-9 loss to Southern Maine on Tuesday and rebounded for a 7-2 victory (link is on the front page) over Rhode Island College.
2-4
-The Bridgewater State women's lacrosse team and takes on Westfield State today. BSC brings a 5-5 record to the match. Westfield State is a first year program and comes in at 2-4. Bridgewaters last win came this past Thursday with a 14-8 win over Pine Manor College (Recap).
The game is scheduled to start at 1 pm at Swenson Field.
-We will try to bring you the highlights once they become available.
-In what appears to be a very busy afternoon at Bridgewater State today, there are four different games going on at the same time. It is supposed to be a beautiful day today here in Bridgewater. Weather.com reports that the high will be 68 degrees with a low of 41 (tonight). The wind comes in from the NE at 5-10 MPH. We will run them off for you with a couple of notes:
-The pregame for the Bridgewater State baseball game is right below this post.
-The Bridgewater State softball team will be playing a double header versus Fitchburg State today. Fitchburg brings a 3-3 MASCAC record (11-14 overall) to the game, and is in third place in the league. Bridgewater State remains tied with Westfield State at 6-0 for the top spot in the league standings.
At this time we are unsure who the starters will be for the Bears. Coach Janet McGuire does not announce starters for the games because she wants to see what shes up against before the games take place.
The game starts at noontime at Alumni Field.
-The Bridgewater State tennis team plays the second of the three league games they have scheduled this weekend. They play at home today versus Salem State College starting at noontime. The Bears are 2-1 in the Little East Conference and 4-1 overall. Salem State is 2-3 in the LEC (4-5 overall) and plays their last game of the regular season today.
Over the past week the Bears dropped a 0-9 loss to Southern Maine on Tuesday and rebounded for a 7-2 victory (link is on the front page) over Rhode Island College.
2-4
-The Bridgewater State women's lacrosse team and takes on Westfield State today. BSC brings a 5-5 record to the match. Westfield State is a first year program and comes in at 2-4. Bridgewaters last win came this past Thursday with a 14-8 win over Pine Manor College (Recap).
The game is scheduled to start at 1 pm at Swenson Field.
-We will try to bring you the highlights once they become available.
Fitchburg State pregame
Steven M Miller, Jr
-The Bridgewater State baseball team plays a double-header versus Fitchburg today. The 12-7 Bears play seven games over the next four days. They are scheduled to play at Westfield tomorrow, a non-conference game versus Babson on Monday, and then at Mass Maritime on the Tuesday.
-Getting the start in game 1 of today's double header will be Senior Ace Jordan Richards (0-4). In 26.1 innings he has a 4.10 ERA with 3 complete games in 4 starts. He leads the staff with 18 strikeouts and he has given up 11 walks.
Since coming back up north, the Bears are 10-2. Two of those losses have been complete games that Richards has only given up four runs (Worcester State L, 2-1) and (Wheaton L, 2-1).
Richards has just been the victim of poor run support. But Fitchburg has the #6 ERA in the league with a 6.50 ERA in 170.1 innings. Despite his record he is still very optimistic about the whole situation. After his last loss to Wheaton last week he joked, "I still have my perfect record."
The game 2 starter will be freshman #4 starter Spencer Hatstat. Hatstat's last win came against Framingham last Saturday. Hatstat brings a 3-0 record in 4 appearances and 2 starts. In 21.1 innings, he has a 1.69 ERA with 16 strikeouts and 6 walks allowed.
Fitchburg State brings a 4-2 MASCAC record (10-11 overall) and looks to try to get a sweep or split with Bridgewater. Fitchburg swept Salem State, the defending MASCAC league champions. The Bears are 3-1 in the league and look to gain some ground on everyone else with the six games they play over the next few days.
-The Bears last win came versus Rhode Island college last Thursday. In a 8-4 victory freshman Ben Altman got his third victory of the year in as many starts. Bridgewater took advantage of three errors scoring 8 runs in the first six innings. But RIC came back and threatened to score the tying runs with runners on base, after a Bridgewater State miscue in the infield. Junior Brian Schilling came into the game and retired the last two batters to pick up his fourth consecutive save.
The full game recap is right here
-I accidentally found out that Umass Boston has rescheduled to play the Bears at the end of the month. The Baseball team has had four cancelled games, due to the poor weather. The game has been rescheduled for 4/30 at home (3:30 pm start). The game has been scheduled right before the MASCAC league championships, for the automatic bid to the NCAA regional tournament.
-We will try to bring you the highlights once they become available.
-The Bridgewater State baseball team plays a double-header versus Fitchburg today. The 12-7 Bears play seven games over the next four days. They are scheduled to play at Westfield tomorrow, a non-conference game versus Babson on Monday, and then at Mass Maritime on the Tuesday.
-Getting the start in game 1 of today's double header will be Senior Ace Jordan Richards (0-4). In 26.1 innings he has a 4.10 ERA with 3 complete games in 4 starts. He leads the staff with 18 strikeouts and he has given up 11 walks.
Since coming back up north, the Bears are 10-2. Two of those losses have been complete games that Richards has only given up four runs (Worcester State L, 2-1) and (Wheaton L, 2-1).
Richards has just been the victim of poor run support. But Fitchburg has the #6 ERA in the league with a 6.50 ERA in 170.1 innings. Despite his record he is still very optimistic about the whole situation. After his last loss to Wheaton last week he joked, "I still have my perfect record."
The game 2 starter will be freshman #4 starter Spencer Hatstat. Hatstat's last win came against Framingham last Saturday. Hatstat brings a 3-0 record in 4 appearances and 2 starts. In 21.1 innings, he has a 1.69 ERA with 16 strikeouts and 6 walks allowed.
Fitchburg State brings a 4-2 MASCAC record (10-11 overall) and looks to try to get a sweep or split with Bridgewater. Fitchburg swept Salem State, the defending MASCAC league champions. The Bears are 3-1 in the league and look to gain some ground on everyone else with the six games they play over the next few days.
-The Bears last win came versus Rhode Island college last Thursday. In a 8-4 victory freshman Ben Altman got his third victory of the year in as many starts. Bridgewater took advantage of three errors scoring 8 runs in the first six innings. But RIC came back and threatened to score the tying runs with runners on base, after a Bridgewater State miscue in the infield. Junior Brian Schilling came into the game and retired the last two batters to pick up his fourth consecutive save.
The full game recap is right here
-I accidentally found out that Umass Boston has rescheduled to play the Bears at the end of the month. The Baseball team has had four cancelled games, due to the poor weather. The game has been rescheduled for 4/30 at home (3:30 pm start). The game has been scheduled right before the MASCAC league championships, for the automatic bid to the NCAA regional tournament.
-We will try to bring you the highlights once they become available.
Thursday, April 19, 2007
The Comment's Fantasy Baseball League
Shawn Medeiros
Sports Editor
Early on the leader is Dan Lopes with an impressive 27-5-0 record.
The Comment Sports Blog website will keep you updated on the standings of the Comment's Fantasy Baseball League
Sports Editor
| Dan Lopes | 27-5-0 | .844 | - | 12-4-0 | 8 | - | |
| Sean Sousa | 25-6-1 | .797 | 1.5 | 11-5-0 | 12 | 5 | |
| billy thran | 22-9-1 | .703 | 4.5 | 10-5-1 | 9 | 6 | |
| Shawn Medeiros | 19-12-1 | .609 | 7.5 | 9-6-1 | 4 | 1 | |
| Steven M. Miller Jr | 16-14-2 | .531 | 10 | 6-9-1 | 5 | 10 | |
| Kevin Aguiar | 15-13-4 | .531 | 10 | 4-9-3 | 2 | - | |
| Jack Healy | 13-15-4 | .469 | 12 | 8-5-3 | 6 | - | |
| Bill King | 10-19-3 | .359 | 15.5 | 9-4-3 | 1 | - | |
| Steve Emery | 9-20-3 | .328 | 16.5 | 5-8-3 | 11 | 2 | |
| Ian Abreu | 10-22-0 | .313 | 17 | 4-12-0 | 7 | 2 | |
| Tim Vitagliano | 9-22-1 | .297 | 17.5 | 5-11-0 | 10 | 3 | |
| Eric Flanagan | 6-24-2 | .219 | 20 | 5-10-1 | 3 | 2 |
Early on the leader is Dan Lopes with an impressive 27-5-0 record.
The Comment Sports Blog website will keep you updated on the standings of the Comment's Fantasy Baseball League
Matt Charest Named Little East Men's Tennis Player of the Week
Mike Holbrook
Special to the Comment Sports Blog
BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State College sophomore Matt Charest has been named the Little East Conference (LEC) Men's Tennis Player of the Week as he helped BSC remain undefeated on the season with wins last week against Little East rivals UMass-Dartmouth and UMass-Boston..
A native of Somerset, Massachusetts, Charest sported a 2-0 mark in singles and doubles competing out of the number one spot in both flights last week. In the Bears' 9-0 win over UMass-Dartmouth, he overpowered his singles opposition in straight sets (6-0, 6-0) and teamed with Matt Kelly to win in doubles, 8-5. On April 14th, Charest knocked off his opponent from UMass-Boston in straight sets (6-2, 6-0), and teamed with Kelly for an 8-3 doubles victory.
On the season, Charest is currently 3-1 in singles play and 4-0 in doubles competition as his Bears (4-0 overall, 2-0 LEC) are tied for first a top the Little East standings along with Southern Maine. In two seasons at Bridgewater State, Matt has a career singles record of 11-4 and a 10-3 mark in doubles play while competing out of the top flight in each.
Derek Thompson Selected to Play in NEBCA Senior All-Star Game
Mike Holbrook
Special to the Comment Sports Blog
BRIDGEWATER, Mass. -- Bridgewater State College senior Derek Thompson has been selected to play in the New England Basketball Coaches Association (NEBCA) Division III College Senior All-Star Game which will take place at the Staake Gymnasium on the Campus of Babson College on Sunday, April 22nd beginning at 5 PM.
A native of Hyannis, Massachusetts, Thompson was a First Team All-Massachusetts State College Athletic Conference (MASCAC) selection for the second straight season in 2006-2007 as he averaged 16.2 points and 6.7 rebounds while shooting 57% (157-for-276) from the floor. He led the MASCAC in field goal percentage while finishing seventh in the conference in rebounding, eighth in scoring and tenth in blocked shots (18).
The BSC men's basketball team finished the season with a 17-8 overall record as well as a 9-3 mark in conference play. Seeded second in the MASCAC Tournament, the Bears lost in the tournament semifinals as they dropped a 59-49 decision to Westfield State College.
Thompson wrapped up his four-year career at Bridgewater State with 866 points and 386 rebounds as he averaged 12.6 points and 5.6 rebounds in 69 career games. He leaves as the Bears' all-time field goal percentage leader with a .588 (318-for-541) shooting percentage as he eclipsed John Hickey's (1989-92) career mark of .562 (570-for-1014). Last season, Derek set BSC's single-season record with a .638 (153-for-240) field goal percentage.
The NEBCA resurrected their senior all-star game after a three year absence and all proceeds will benefit the Coaches vs. Cancer campaign. The rosters were selected by several committees made up of area college coaches and are being released by Stephen Brennan, the NEBCA Executive Secretary.
In addition to the all-star game, there will be a free clinic at 3:30 run by several of the game's participants and area coaches, along with raffles that include Boston Celtics memorabilia and a chance to take a shot for $50,000. Tickets will be sold at the following rates: Adults $10, Students $5, and children under 12 free.
Joining Thompson on the senior all-star team from the MASCAC are Westfield State's Curtis Gadles, and Salem State's Eric Downie and Brandon McCombs.
Baseball and Lacrosse games
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The Bridgewater State baseball team will travel down to Rhode Island College this afternoon to play a single game versus the 11-8 Anchormen. The Bears look to play their first game since the double header sweep of Framingham State on Saturday, just 5 days ago.
BSC turns to #5 starter freshman Ben Altman (2-0) on the mound. Altman has a 1.72 ERA in 15 .2 innings, in two starts and three appearances. He also had 9 strikeouts and 5 walks on the season. In his last start he went five shutout innings in the record setting 57-1 victory over Newbury College.
-The BSC Lacrosse team will travel up to Mount Holyoke College for a 4:30 game. Mount Holyoke is 2-10 on the season and 0-7 since returning from their early March trip to California. They have allowed an average of 19 points given up and have scored an average of 6 points on their regular season New England schedule.
The Lacrosse team looks to even out its 4-5 record to get back to .500 and remain eligible for ECAC postseason play
-The Bridgewater State baseball team will travel down to Rhode Island College this afternoon to play a single game versus the 11-8 Anchormen. The Bears look to play their first game since the double header sweep of Framingham State on Saturday, just 5 days ago.
BSC turns to #5 starter freshman Ben Altman (2-0) on the mound. Altman has a 1.72 ERA in 15 .2 innings, in two starts and three appearances. He also had 9 strikeouts and 5 walks on the season. In his last start he went five shutout innings in the record setting 57-1 victory over Newbury College.
-The BSC Lacrosse team will travel up to Mount Holyoke College for a 4:30 game. Mount Holyoke is 2-10 on the season and 0-7 since returning from their early March trip to California. They have allowed an average of 19 points given up and have scored an average of 6 points on their regular season New England schedule.
The Lacrosse team looks to even out its 4-5 record to get back to .500 and remain eligible for ECAC postseason play
Tuesday, April 17, 2007
Early games this week cancelled or postponed
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-In what appears to be another horrible week of rain, extreme wind, and bad weather here are the postponements by sport this week, followed by total cancellations on the year:
-The Baseball team found itself this past weekend with two more postponed league games, with rescheduling a double header versus Salem (from last Saturday) and a doubleheader that was scheduled for Monday, but rescheduled and cancelled earlier today. Salem and BSC are now slated to play on Sunday, April 29th (weekend of Springfest) and they are to play Westfield on this coming Sunday (April 22nd).
According the to Athletics website, non-conference rival Eastern Connecticut was supposed to play Bridgewater tomorrow (Wednesday), but that home game has been cancelled with 70% chance of showers that day. This makes for 5 cancelled games on the season. It is worth noting that Bridgewater has cancelled games versus #12 (#2 regionally) ranked EConn, #4 regionally Southern Maine, and #6 regionally Suffolk University, according to the April 10th ABCA Division III Coaches poll.
While you have to have a minimum number of games to be considered eligible for postseason play, the Bears would finish the season at 28 if every one of its next 6 non-conference opponents are cancelled. Every other team is considered to be in about the same kind of situation, so the Bears should still be eligble, if they win this years MASCAC Conference tournament.
The Bears still have 10 league games remaining. They are scheduled to take on RIC on Thursday, a double-header versus Fitchburg on Saturday (at home, at noon) and the rescheduled league game versus Westfield away, at noon.
-While the softball team had their MASCAC double header postponed, they haven't had any games cancelled this year. In addition, the week that the Salem game got postponed for the baseball team, the softball team made the trip instead. This marks the third game this season that has been postponed (postponed versus RIC and Tufts; both games got made up later in the week).
This week the Bears have a scheduled double header versus Fitchburg on Saturday (at home, at noontime) and travel up to Westfield with the baseball team on Sunday. On Monday, the Bears are right back at it with a double header versus Eastern Connecticut and then play another MASCAC twinbill with Mass Maritime on Tuesday.
The BSC softball team looks to take advantage of the off days by working on their hitting in the mult-purpose court at the Tinsley Center. We will let you know how they fare during the weekend.
-The BSC Lacrosse team scheduled to play Rhode Island College in an attempt to get back to .500 and eligible for postseason ECAC play. They have been fortunate, only having one other game postponed this season. The 6pm away game has been rescheduled for Tuesday next week.
Barring the weather conditions, the Bears take on Mount Holyoke College (away at 4:30) on Thursday and then play Westfield State on Saturday. The Saturday game versus will be played at home starting at 1 pm, at Swenson field.
-The 4-0 tennis team was to play Clark University on Monday, but that game has been cancelled. Barring weather conditions, the team will travel to (5-2) Southern Maine tomorrow. Southern Maine is also currently undefeated in conference play coming into tomorrows match up with an identical 4-0 LEC record. The forecast is showers all afternoon, with 70% chance of precipitation. The game is scheduled to be played at 3:30.
Should this game not be played, the Bears look to play three strait games, over the weekend. The BSC tennis team will be playing RIC on Friday (away at 3pm), Saturday at home versus Salem State (at 12 pm), and then Saturday away at Western Conneticut (at 1 pm).
We will bring you the highlights when they become available.
-As the BSC outdoor track team gets ready for the MASCAC Championships, they look to have a warm-up meet at Springfield College. They will compete in the Springfield College invitational this coming Saturday at 11 am.
-In what appears to be another horrible week of rain, extreme wind, and bad weather here are the postponements by sport this week, followed by total cancellations on the year:
-The Baseball team found itself this past weekend with two more postponed league games, with rescheduling a double header versus Salem (from last Saturday) and a doubleheader that was scheduled for Monday, but rescheduled and cancelled earlier today. Salem and BSC are now slated to play on Sunday, April 29th (weekend of Springfest) and they are to play Westfield on this coming Sunday (April 22nd).
According the to Athletics website, non-conference rival Eastern Connecticut was supposed to play Bridgewater tomorrow (Wednesday), but that home game has been cancelled with 70% chance of showers that day. This makes for 5 cancelled games on the season. It is worth noting that Bridgewater has cancelled games versus #12 (#2 regionally) ranked EConn, #4 regionally Southern Maine, and #6 regionally Suffolk University, according to the April 10th ABCA Division III Coaches poll.
While you have to have a minimum number of games to be considered eligible for postseason play, the Bears would finish the season at 28 if every one of its next 6 non-conference opponents are cancelled. Every other team is considered to be in about the same kind of situation, so the Bears should still be eligble, if they win this years MASCAC Conference tournament.
The Bears still have 10 league games remaining. They are scheduled to take on RIC on Thursday, a double-header versus Fitchburg on Saturday (at home, at noon) and the rescheduled league game versus Westfield away, at noon.
-While the softball team had their MASCAC double header postponed, they haven't had any games cancelled this year. In addition, the week that the Salem game got postponed for the baseball team, the softball team made the trip instead. This marks the third game this season that has been postponed (postponed versus RIC and Tufts; both games got made up later in the week).
This week the Bears have a scheduled double header versus Fitchburg on Saturday (at home, at noontime) and travel up to Westfield with the baseball team on Sunday. On Monday, the Bears are right back at it with a double header versus Eastern Connecticut and then play another MASCAC twinbill with Mass Maritime on Tuesday.
The BSC softball team looks to take advantage of the off days by working on their hitting in the mult-purpose court at the Tinsley Center. We will let you know how they fare during the weekend.
-The BSC Lacrosse team scheduled to play Rhode Island College in an attempt to get back to .500 and eligible for postseason ECAC play. They have been fortunate, only having one other game postponed this season. The 6pm away game has been rescheduled for Tuesday next week.
Barring the weather conditions, the Bears take on Mount Holyoke College (away at 4:30) on Thursday and then play Westfield State on Saturday. The Saturday game versus will be played at home starting at 1 pm, at Swenson field.
-The 4-0 tennis team was to play Clark University on Monday, but that game has been cancelled. Barring weather conditions, the team will travel to (5-2) Southern Maine tomorrow. Southern Maine is also currently undefeated in conference play coming into tomorrows match up with an identical 4-0 LEC record. The forecast is showers all afternoon, with 70% chance of precipitation. The game is scheduled to be played at 3:30.
Should this game not be played, the Bears look to play three strait games, over the weekend. The BSC tennis team will be playing RIC on Friday (away at 3pm), Saturday at home versus Salem State (at 12 pm), and then Saturday away at Western Conneticut (at 1 pm).
We will bring you the highlights when they become available.
-As the BSC outdoor track team gets ready for the MASCAC Championships, they look to have a warm-up meet at Springfield College. They will compete in the Springfield College invitational this coming Saturday at 11 am.
Monday, April 16, 2007
Softball sweeps Framingham State
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The Bridgewater State softball team extended their MASCAC league record to 6-0 by posting a pair of victory's over Framigham State on Saturday. They won the first game 2-0 and the second game 5-0.
The first game was highlighted by freshman right hander Erin Christenson's (2-3) first collegiate career no hitter. Christenson went seven innings while giving up 2 walks and striking out 6.
The game was scoreless, in a pitchers duel, until the softball team got on the board with a pair of runs. Freshman pinch-hitter Megan Noyes led off the bottom of the inning with a single to left center. One out later, sophomore centerfielder Allie LeBlanc singled to left field and moved Noyes to third. Helping out her own cause, Christenson doubled into the left center field gap and scored Noyes and LeBlanc on the play.
With the score 2-0, Christenson came out for the top of the seventh and retired the side in order, to give BSC the victory.
In the second game, junior right hander Stephanie Pierce (2-6) took the victory for the Bears. She went the distance pitching a shutout and giving up only 4 hits. She also gave up 2 walks and struck out 7.
Bridgewater State started the scoring plating two runs in the bottom of the third. Christenson scored singled in sophomore right fielder Christina Godin from third base. Godin had reached base on a fielders choice and then moved to third on junior second baseman Nicole Heberts double to deep left field. LeBlanc then brought in Godin with an RBI groundout.
With the 2-0 lead, Bridgewater added another run in the fourth with the bases loaded. Hebert scored sophomore third baseman Stacy Capodiece.
BSC scored two more runs in the fifth when they loaded the bases again. Junior catcher Lindsey Allison ripped a two-run RBI double to left field.
The 11-16-1 Bridgeater State softball team looks to take on Westfield State on Tuesday at noontime.
Some information from this report was provided by the recap courtesy of the Sports Information Department.
-The Bridgewater State softball team extended their MASCAC league record to 6-0 by posting a pair of victory's over Framigham State on Saturday. They won the first game 2-0 and the second game 5-0.
The first game was highlighted by freshman right hander Erin Christenson's (2-3) first collegiate career no hitter. Christenson went seven innings while giving up 2 walks and striking out 6.
The game was scoreless, in a pitchers duel, until the softball team got on the board with a pair of runs. Freshman pinch-hitter Megan Noyes led off the bottom of the inning with a single to left center. One out later, sophomore centerfielder Allie LeBlanc singled to left field and moved Noyes to third. Helping out her own cause, Christenson doubled into the left center field gap and scored Noyes and LeBlanc on the play.
With the score 2-0, Christenson came out for the top of the seventh and retired the side in order, to give BSC the victory.
In the second game, junior right hander Stephanie Pierce (2-6) took the victory for the Bears. She went the distance pitching a shutout and giving up only 4 hits. She also gave up 2 walks and struck out 7.
Bridgewater State started the scoring plating two runs in the bottom of the third. Christenson scored singled in sophomore right fielder Christina Godin from third base. Godin had reached base on a fielders choice and then moved to third on junior second baseman Nicole Heberts double to deep left field. LeBlanc then brought in Godin with an RBI groundout.
With the 2-0 lead, Bridgewater added another run in the fourth with the bases loaded. Hebert scored sophomore third baseman Stacy Capodiece.
BSC scored two more runs in the fifth when they loaded the bases again. Junior catcher Lindsey Allison ripped a two-run RBI double to left field.
The 11-16-1 Bridgeater State softball team looks to take on Westfield State on Tuesday at noontime.
Some information from this report was provided by the recap courtesy of the Sports Information Department.
Lacrosse and Tennis highlights
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
Tennis
-The Tennis team extended its record to 4-0 overall and 2-0 in Little East Conference play with a 8-1 victory over Umass Boston. The Bears took advantage of home field sweeping all six singles matches and they won two out of their three doubles matches.
In the singles matches, sophomore Matt Charest (6-2, 6-0), junior Barry Gorman (7-5, 3-6, 10-5), sophomore Giovani Cuscina (6-0, 6-0), senior Matt Kelley (6-2, 6-0), senior Howard Smyth (6-0, 6-0), and junior Greg Nelson (6-0, 6-0) all were victorious in their singles match ups.
In the doubles matches, the #1 team of Charest and Kelly won 8-3 and the #3 team of senior Johnathan Bouchard and sophomore Brendan Barbo won 8-2. The #2 team of Cuscina and Smyth took the 8-6 loss.
Barring rain, the next scheduled game will be today at Clark University at 4 pm.
Lacrosse
The Women's Lacrosse team dropped a tough 11-7 loss to Eastern Connecticut Saturday. Bridgewater fell behind 6-2 in the first half . BSC then rallied for three goals to open up the second half and make it a 6-5 ball game. With the pressure on, Eastern Connecticut scored the next four goals and took the lead for good.
The Bears were led by freshman Shannon Manning, who had 3 goals on the game. Senior attacker Alicia Spolidoro and junior midfielder Lauryn Serratore also chipped in with a goal and an assist. In the net, freshman Chelsea Bracchi had 9 saves in the net for BSC.
The women's lacrosse team takes on RIC at 6pm on Tuesday as they look to get to .500 and remain eligible for ECAC post-season tournament play.
Tennis
-The Tennis team extended its record to 4-0 overall and 2-0 in Little East Conference play with a 8-1 victory over Umass Boston. The Bears took advantage of home field sweeping all six singles matches and they won two out of their three doubles matches.
In the singles matches, sophomore Matt Charest (6-2, 6-0), junior Barry Gorman (7-5, 3-6, 10-5), sophomore Giovani Cuscina (6-0, 6-0), senior Matt Kelley (6-2, 6-0), senior Howard Smyth (6-0, 6-0), and junior Greg Nelson (6-0, 6-0) all were victorious in their singles match ups.
In the doubles matches, the #1 team of Charest and Kelly won 8-3 and the #3 team of senior Johnathan Bouchard and sophomore Brendan Barbo won 8-2. The #2 team of Cuscina and Smyth took the 8-6 loss.
Barring rain, the next scheduled game will be today at Clark University at 4 pm.
Lacrosse
The Women's Lacrosse team dropped a tough 11-7 loss to Eastern Connecticut Saturday. Bridgewater fell behind 6-2 in the first half . BSC then rallied for three goals to open up the second half and make it a 6-5 ball game. With the pressure on, Eastern Connecticut scored the next four goals and took the lead for good.
The Bears were led by freshman Shannon Manning, who had 3 goals on the game. Senior attacker Alicia Spolidoro and junior midfielder Lauryn Serratore also chipped in with a goal and an assist. In the net, freshman Chelsea Bracchi had 9 saves in the net for BSC.
The women's lacrosse team takes on RIC at 6pm on Tuesday as they look to get to .500 and remain eligible for ECAC post-season tournament play.
Saturday, April 14, 2007
Around the bases and lacrosse field
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The BSC baseball team took the first game 8-6. The score of the second game is currently 9-4 in the fifth inning. Hatstat is still on the mound at this time.
-The softball team also swept as part of their double header. They beat Framingham State 2-0 in the first game and 5-0 in the second game.
-The Womens Lacrosse team lost 12-7 to the Eastern Conneticut Warriors.
-And the Men's Tennis team beat Umass Boston 8-1.
-We will bring you the highlights of all of the games once they become availible
-The BSC baseball team took the first game 8-6. The score of the second game is currently 9-4 in the fifth inning. Hatstat is still on the mound at this time.
-The softball team also swept as part of their double header. They beat Framingham State 2-0 in the first game and 5-0 in the second game.
-The Womens Lacrosse team lost 12-7 to the Eastern Conneticut Warriors.
-And the Men's Tennis team beat Umass Boston 8-1.
-We will bring you the highlights of all of the games once they become availible
Friday, April 13, 2007
Baseball to play Framingham State
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-In what has been a very crazy week for the baseball team (weather wise), the team is scheduled to play tomorrow versus Framingham State, for their second league double-header this season. The 5-7 Rams enter the game having not played a single game in two weeks. Their last game was a sweep from MASCAC opponent Fitchburg State. If the weather holds up, Bridgewater State is scheduled to face Westfield State (at Westfield) on Monday. Rain and snow are currently predicted for Sunday and Monday's weather.
The Bears will turn to #3 starter Dennis Jenette in game 1. Jenette is 1-1 on the season with a 3.78 ERA in 16.2 innings. In 3 appearances and 2 starts, he has allowed 2 walks and struck out 6 batters.
The starter in game 2 will be freshman Spencer Hatstat. In one start and three appearances, Hatstat is 2-0 on the season with a 0.69 ERA in 14.1 innings. He has given up an 4 walks and whiffed 14 batters.
-It went unreported on the blog, but the Bears split a series on Wednesday with #7 ranked (nationally) and #1 regionally ranked Wheaton College. Senior Ace right-hander Jordan Richards took his fourth loss of the season in a well pitched game. He went the distance and pitched the whole game in a 2-1 loss.
In the second game, the Bears won 3-2. Sophomore Dave Liffers won his fourth strait decision, and he pitched very well. He pitched a complete game giving up two earned runs on 5 hits. He had 5 strikeouts and walked one.
Freshman third baseman Mark Claffey went 3-for-3 with a run and an RBI in the game. Junior catcher Kelly LaDow went 2-for-3 with a run batted in.
A full recap is right here.
-Walked on the field today and there are puddles in the outfield, in random spots. I spoke with Associate Athletic Director Mike Storey, this afternoon, and he said it was a lot worse, earlier this morning. Holes have been placed all over the field to help out with the drainage situation.
For practice today, the hitters got some swings in at the Tinsley Center and the pitchers ran a mile, on the indoor track.
-Brigewater State has had 4 games cancelled this season. They were supposed to play Umass Boston (rescheduled 3 times before cancelling), Brandies (this past Friday), Southern Maine (game was snowed out), and Suffolk. Hopefully the Bears can get enough games in or else they will not be eligible for post-season play.
-Couple of links on the 57-1 win the other day.
-A Friday take on the game from monroenews.com, out of Michigan.
-Front page story in the Enterprise on Thursday
-Page 2 story in the Boston Herald on Thursday
-D3baseball poll (on the right) and forum that was started on Tuesday
-"The Postman" and their views
-Ourage.blogspot.com's Wednesday post. (Note- Shawn (the editor) noticed that the guy linked Bridgewater College in Virginia, not BSC in MA)
-Speculation at Motorsports.com
-And finally the 863 comment post to this Deadspin.com post
-The Comment will bring you pre-game coverage of the game tomorrow.
-In what has been a very crazy week for the baseball team (weather wise), the team is scheduled to play tomorrow versus Framingham State, for their second league double-header this season. The 5-7 Rams enter the game having not played a single game in two weeks. Their last game was a sweep from MASCAC opponent Fitchburg State. If the weather holds up, Bridgewater State is scheduled to face Westfield State (at Westfield) on Monday. Rain and snow are currently predicted for Sunday and Monday's weather.
The Bears will turn to #3 starter Dennis Jenette in game 1. Jenette is 1-1 on the season with a 3.78 ERA in 16.2 innings. In 3 appearances and 2 starts, he has allowed 2 walks and struck out 6 batters.
The starter in game 2 will be freshman Spencer Hatstat. In one start and three appearances, Hatstat is 2-0 on the season with a 0.69 ERA in 14.1 innings. He has given up an 4 walks and whiffed 14 batters.
-It went unreported on the blog, but the Bears split a series on Wednesday with #7 ranked (nationally) and #1 regionally ranked Wheaton College. Senior Ace right-hander Jordan Richards took his fourth loss of the season in a well pitched game. He went the distance and pitched the whole game in a 2-1 loss.
In the second game, the Bears won 3-2. Sophomore Dave Liffers won his fourth strait decision, and he pitched very well. He pitched a complete game giving up two earned runs on 5 hits. He had 5 strikeouts and walked one.
Freshman third baseman Mark Claffey went 3-for-3 with a run and an RBI in the game. Junior catcher Kelly LaDow went 2-for-3 with a run batted in.
A full recap is right here.
-Walked on the field today and there are puddles in the outfield, in random spots. I spoke with Associate Athletic Director Mike Storey, this afternoon, and he said it was a lot worse, earlier this morning. Holes have been placed all over the field to help out with the drainage situation.
For practice today, the hitters got some swings in at the Tinsley Center and the pitchers ran a mile, on the indoor track.
-Brigewater State has had 4 games cancelled this season. They were supposed to play Umass Boston (rescheduled 3 times before cancelling), Brandies (this past Friday), Southern Maine (game was snowed out), and Suffolk. Hopefully the Bears can get enough games in or else they will not be eligible for post-season play.
-Couple of links on the 57-1 win the other day.
-A Friday take on the game from monroenews.com, out of Michigan.
-Front page story in the Enterprise on Thursday
-Page 2 story in the Boston Herald on Thursday
-D3baseball poll (on the right) and forum that was started on Tuesday
-"The Postman" and their views
-Ourage.blogspot.com's Wednesday post. (Note- Shawn (the editor) noticed that the guy linked Bridgewater College in Virginia, not BSC in MA)
-Speculation at Motorsports.com
-And finally the 863 comment post to this Deadspin.com post
-The Comment will bring you pre-game coverage of the game tomorrow.
Thursday, April 12, 2007
Drew Bledsoe has retired ... What about being a QB coach?
Shawn Medeiros
Sports Editor
Ever wonder why the quarterbacks Bledsoe got beat out by were so good?
Well I think it had something to do with Deadly Drew himself.
OOO yeah Mo Lewis I still want your jersey retired at Gillette. That was my aside for this blog.
I have always been a Drew basher, but I think now I need to give him some credit.
Bledsoe's classy attitude and superb performance in that AFC Championship game is remarkable considering he was not the starter.
After that Brady's career takes off.
Drew goes to the Cowboys.
Sidelined or benched ... that is your opinion.
Romo becomes a great quarterback last year.
So that makes one think. What happens if he became some kind of coach? Could he be more successful in that situation?
This is all just a thought or a glance at the future. All I know is that whenever he was a "backup" QB the quarterback in his place thrived.
That is all im saying.
Just a hint Drew!
Sports Editor
Ever wonder why the quarterbacks Bledsoe got beat out by were so good?
Well I think it had something to do with Deadly Drew himself.
OOO yeah Mo Lewis I still want your jersey retired at Gillette. That was my aside for this blog.
I have always been a Drew basher, but I think now I need to give him some credit.
Bledsoe's classy attitude and superb performance in that AFC Championship game is remarkable considering he was not the starter.
After that Brady's career takes off.
Drew goes to the Cowboys.
Sidelined or benched ... that is your opinion.
Romo becomes a great quarterback last year.
So that makes one think. What happens if he became some kind of coach? Could he be more successful in that situation?
This is all just a thought or a glance at the future. All I know is that whenever he was a "backup" QB the quarterback in his place thrived.
That is all im saying.
Just a hint Drew!
Drew Bledsoe… Building Patriots Nation
Kevin Murray
Staff Reporter
The team was coming off of a 2-14 season in 1992. There were rumors that the franchise was going to be moved to St. Louis. Foxboro Stadium was falling apart at the seems, hope was beginning to fade for the old football team in New England. That all changed at the start of 1993 season.
Enter new owner in Robert Kraft and a new head coach in the legendary Bill Parcells. Together the two drafted quarterback Drew Bledsoe with the first overall pick in the 1993 NFL draft. The 6-5’ 225 pound quarterback out of Washington St. brought hope to a franchise that was in dire need of a spark.
With virtually no running back for the first 2 seasons of his career Bledsoe passed an absurd amount. He set an NFL season record in 1994 with 691 attempts and 400 completions. This included in a legendary game that I will never forget against the Minnesota Vikings.
Down 20-3 at half time Bledsoe engineers a comeback and performance for the ages. He goes 45-70 and throws for 450 yards plus. His 45th completion was a TD pass to full back Kevin Turner in overtime. The touch down gave the Patriots a 26-20 victory. Bledsoe’s 45 completions and 70 pass attempts were both NFL single game records.
Three years later Bledsoe would lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl 31 against the Green Bay Packers. Although the Patriots lost, in just his third season he made the Patriots relevant to the Sports fans of New England.
Up until the late early 90’s the Patriots were 4th on the list of Boston’s most beloved teams. The Red Sox always are first, but the Celtics and Bruins were eons ahead of the where the Patriots franchise wanted to be.
The arrival of Parcells and most notably Bledsoe, allowed owner Robert Kraft to have faith in his purchase of the team. Bledsoe exited fans as revenue was brought in by all the ticket and merchandise sales. Thousands of fans fled to the old Patriots pro-shop to pick up their number 11 jerseys. People of New England finally showed loyalty to a team that always stood in the shadow of the 3 other teams playing in the city.
There eventually became a waiting list on season tickets. It was not to long ago that some Patriots games would be blacked out. Yes, blacked out! Meaning that the team didn’t sell enough tickets for the networks to feel it was necessary to televise the game on TV. As a kid I could remember listening to the Patriots play the Dolphins in the final game of the 1993 season on the radio. Could you imagine having a Patriots game be so irrelevant that it wasn’t even shown on TV? If you became a Patriots fan in 2002 you truly don’t have an appreciation of what owner Robert Kraft and Drew Bledsoe did for this franchise.
It’s safe to say that with out was Bledsoe there would be no Gillette Stadium. Hell, route one used to be a 2 lane road. Majority of the Parking lots you see today used to be all dirt. Adjacent to the old Foxboro Stadium there was a pretty decent sized trailer park, were hundreds of people lived.
All those old dirt lots are now freshly paved. The glamorous Gillette Stadium now stands erect were the old horse track used to be. (Yes recent bandwagon Patriot fans, there once was an active horse racing track where Gillette Stadium now stands.) The Patriots were finally in demand and Kraft knew that his fan base would fill the new state of the art stadium and he can thank Bledsoe for that.
Plans for new CMGI/ Gillette Stadium were in the works far before Tom Brady came along. Brady was still going through puberty when Bledsoe was drilling TD passes to Ben Coates. Brady had zero to do with the erection of Gillette Stadium. Bledsoe built the foundation for the stadium and Patriots nation, Brady simply put the shingles on the roof.
As a player I love Tom Brady. I’m just making the point that Bledsoe played a huge role in the popularity of the New England Patriots. There is no doubt that Brady is a better quarterback than Bledsoe. However, if you followed the Patriots pre 1993, you know that this stadium and heck this team may not even be here if it wasn’t for Drew.
Can you imagine Sundays in the fall with out the Pats? Scary thought… Drew Bledsoe: A class act on and off the field. His impact on this franchise is goes as miniscule as being able to watch the Patriots on TV.
NFL Career Ranks
5th in NFL history in pass attempts (6,717)
5th in NFL history in pass completions (3,839)
7th in NFL history in passing yards (44,611)
13th in NFL history touchdown passes (251)
“ I feel so fortunate, so honored to have played this game that I love for so long, with so many great players, and in front of so many wonderful fans. I fulfilled a childhood dream the first time I stepped on an NFL field, and the league did not let me down one time. I retier with a smile on my face, in good health, and ready to spend autumns at my kid’s games instead of my own. I’m excited to start the next chapter of my life.”
(Drew Bledsoe, in a piece by ESPN’s Michael Smith)
Staff Reporter
The team was coming off of a 2-14 season in 1992. There were rumors that the franchise was going to be moved to St. Louis. Foxboro Stadium was falling apart at the seems, hope was beginning to fade for the old football team in New England. That all changed at the start of 1993 season.
Enter new owner in Robert Kraft and a new head coach in the legendary Bill Parcells. Together the two drafted quarterback Drew Bledsoe with the first overall pick in the 1993 NFL draft. The 6-5’ 225 pound quarterback out of Washington St. brought hope to a franchise that was in dire need of a spark.
With virtually no running back for the first 2 seasons of his career Bledsoe passed an absurd amount. He set an NFL season record in 1994 with 691 attempts and 400 completions. This included in a legendary game that I will never forget against the Minnesota Vikings.
Down 20-3 at half time Bledsoe engineers a comeback and performance for the ages. He goes 45-70 and throws for 450 yards plus. His 45th completion was a TD pass to full back Kevin Turner in overtime. The touch down gave the Patriots a 26-20 victory. Bledsoe’s 45 completions and 70 pass attempts were both NFL single game records.
Three years later Bledsoe would lead the Patriots to the Super Bowl 31 against the Green Bay Packers. Although the Patriots lost, in just his third season he made the Patriots relevant to the Sports fans of New England.
Up until the late early 90’s the Patriots were 4th on the list of Boston’s most beloved teams. The Red Sox always are first, but the Celtics and Bruins were eons ahead of the where the Patriots franchise wanted to be.
The arrival of Parcells and most notably Bledsoe, allowed owner Robert Kraft to have faith in his purchase of the team. Bledsoe exited fans as revenue was brought in by all the ticket and merchandise sales. Thousands of fans fled to the old Patriots pro-shop to pick up their number 11 jerseys. People of New England finally showed loyalty to a team that always stood in the shadow of the 3 other teams playing in the city.
There eventually became a waiting list on season tickets. It was not to long ago that some Patriots games would be blacked out. Yes, blacked out! Meaning that the team didn’t sell enough tickets for the networks to feel it was necessary to televise the game on TV. As a kid I could remember listening to the Patriots play the Dolphins in the final game of the 1993 season on the radio. Could you imagine having a Patriots game be so irrelevant that it wasn’t even shown on TV? If you became a Patriots fan in 2002 you truly don’t have an appreciation of what owner Robert Kraft and Drew Bledsoe did for this franchise.
It’s safe to say that with out was Bledsoe there would be no Gillette Stadium. Hell, route one used to be a 2 lane road. Majority of the Parking lots you see today used to be all dirt. Adjacent to the old Foxboro Stadium there was a pretty decent sized trailer park, were hundreds of people lived.
All those old dirt lots are now freshly paved. The glamorous Gillette Stadium now stands erect were the old horse track used to be. (Yes recent bandwagon Patriot fans, there once was an active horse racing track where Gillette Stadium now stands.) The Patriots were finally in demand and Kraft knew that his fan base would fill the new state of the art stadium and he can thank Bledsoe for that.
Plans for new CMGI/ Gillette Stadium were in the works far before Tom Brady came along. Brady was still going through puberty when Bledsoe was drilling TD passes to Ben Coates. Brady had zero to do with the erection of Gillette Stadium. Bledsoe built the foundation for the stadium and Patriots nation, Brady simply put the shingles on the roof.
As a player I love Tom Brady. I’m just making the point that Bledsoe played a huge role in the popularity of the New England Patriots. There is no doubt that Brady is a better quarterback than Bledsoe. However, if you followed the Patriots pre 1993, you know that this stadium and heck this team may not even be here if it wasn’t for Drew.
Can you imagine Sundays in the fall with out the Pats? Scary thought… Drew Bledsoe: A class act on and off the field. His impact on this franchise is goes as miniscule as being able to watch the Patriots on TV.
NFL Career Ranks
5th in NFL history in pass attempts (6,717)
5th in NFL history in pass completions (3,839)
7th in NFL history in passing yards (44,611)
13th in NFL history touchdown passes (251)
“ I feel so fortunate, so honored to have played this game that I love for so long, with so many great players, and in front of so many wonderful fans. I fulfilled a childhood dream the first time I stepped on an NFL field, and the league did not let me down one time. I retier with a smile on my face, in good health, and ready to spend autumns at my kid’s games instead of my own. I’m excited to start the next chapter of my life.”
(Drew Bledsoe, in a piece by ESPN’s Michael Smith)
Wednesday, April 11, 2007
Is Michael Waltrip becoming an embarrassment to NASCAR?
Stephen Emery
Staff Writer
Things are not going so well for the two time Daytona 500 Champion since leaving DEI(Dale Earnhardt Incorporated) after the 2005 season. This year he had hoped to turn the page on a new horizon. He is the new face of Toyota in NASCAR as the team owner of three cars, driven by David Reutimann, Dale Jarrett and himself. He also is the star of a reality show on ESPN2, Waltrip has a full plate.
During qualifying at Daytona, Michael was caught cheating. NASCAR officials fined him, and docked him driver points, he also tarnished Toyota's name and his reputation. That was just the beginning. Since then he has failed to qualify for any of the five races since the Daytona 500.
This is where things get really bad. Earlier this week he was charged with "reckless driving" and "leaving the scene of an accident." The problem was that this did not happen on the race track. It was in his hometown of Sherrils Ford, N.C.
Waltrip supposedly crashed into a telephone pole then rolled his car and claims it was because he fell asleep at the wheel. Officers were finally able to locate him at his house the next morning and pressed charges.
What was this guy thinking? As always, when someone of celebrity status does something along these lines, the world is going to know about it. So he crashed his car because he fell asleep at the wheel. Instances like this happen all the time to U.S citizens, but leaving the scene of the accident is just down right stupid. Of course it must be embarrassing for someone who
makes a living racing cars to end up in such a silly accident, but the way he handled it was not appropriate. He is setting a bad example for all of his young fans, and making Toyota and NASCAR look bad.
As of late, he has been spending more time making commercials for NAPA and Best Western then on the race track. It will be interesting to see how they feel about him after this latest stunt.
Only time will tell, but with the incredibly large amount of money Toyota is doling out, I can not see them dealing with him much longer. If Waltrip hopes to have a successful career as a team owner, and rekindle his career as a driver, then he needs to make a big turn around and do it fast.
Staff Writer
Things are not going so well for the two time Daytona 500 Champion since leaving DEI(Dale Earnhardt Incorporated) after the 2005 season. This year he had hoped to turn the page on a new horizon. He is the new face of Toyota in NASCAR as the team owner of three cars, driven by David Reutimann, Dale Jarrett and himself. He also is the star of a reality show on ESPN2, Waltrip has a full plate.
During qualifying at Daytona, Michael was caught cheating. NASCAR officials fined him, and docked him driver points, he also tarnished Toyota's name and his reputation. That was just the beginning. Since then he has failed to qualify for any of the five races since the Daytona 500.
This is where things get really bad. Earlier this week he was charged with "reckless driving" and "leaving the scene of an accident." The problem was that this did not happen on the race track. It was in his hometown of Sherrils Ford, N.C.
Waltrip supposedly crashed into a telephone pole then rolled his car and claims it was because he fell asleep at the wheel. Officers were finally able to locate him at his house the next morning and pressed charges.
What was this guy thinking? As always, when someone of celebrity status does something along these lines, the world is going to know about it. So he crashed his car because he fell asleep at the wheel. Instances like this happen all the time to U.S citizens, but leaving the scene of the accident is just down right stupid. Of course it must be embarrassing for someone who
makes a living racing cars to end up in such a silly accident, but the way he handled it was not appropriate. He is setting a bad example for all of his young fans, and making Toyota and NASCAR look bad.As of late, he has been spending more time making commercials for NAPA and Best Western then on the race track. It will be interesting to see how they feel about him after this latest stunt.
Only time will tell, but with the incredibly large amount of money Toyota is doling out, I can not see them dealing with him much longer. If Waltrip hopes to have a successful career as a team owner, and rekindle his career as a driver, then he needs to make a big turn around and do it fast.
The Quest For The Cup
Stephen Emery
Staff Writer
The Stanley Cup Playoffs start tonight, and sixteen teams are eagerly vying for the chance to hoist one of the most recognizable trophies in the world. So with the matches set and all of the games scheduled, here are my predictions for the first round of competition.
Eastern Conference
Staff Writer
The Stanley Cup Playoffs start tonight, and sixteen teams are eagerly vying for the chance to hoist one of the most recognizable trophies in the world. So with the matches set and all of the games scheduled, here are my predictions for the first round of competition.
Eastern Conference
1. Buffalo Sabres vs. 8. New York Islanders
The 2007 Islanders are a strong team, but they are not the dynasty they once were in the early 1980’s. With superstars like Jason Blake, Rick DiPietro, newly acquired Ryan Smyth and a supporting cast of seasoned veterans, you’d think they have a good shot at making strides during the playoffs. Coming out against the top team in the league, I think they will fall short. The Sabres just have too much fire power. With four 30+ goal scorers on the roster, and a hot Ryan Miller between the pipes, the Sabres should easily take this first round match up. Captain and former Boston University star Chris Drury, who is a free agent next year, hopes to lead Buffalo to their first ever Stanley Cup win. The only thing that could get to this all star team is the pressure. After starting off the season with 10 wins in a row, and ending with the best record in the NHL, the expectations from the fans are extremely high. Right now in Buffalo, the Sabres are nearing the status of the Red Sox in Boston, and that can be dangerous.
2. New Jersey Devils vs. 7. Tampa Bay Lightning
In my eyes, this is the stage for the biggest upset in the East. After falling short of defending their title last year, the 2004 Cup champions are back with a vengeance. Scoring goals will not be a problem at all for the Bolts, considering they have the 1st and 5th leading goal scorers in the league in Vincent Lecavalier and Martin St.Louis respectively. If Tampa Bay can break the strong, conservative defense of the Devils and get the puck to their slew of big guns then their only obstacle will be the stonewall that is Martin Brodeur. It won’t be easy beating a man who won 48 games this season, setting a new NHL record, but if anyone can do it, I have faith in the boys from the Bay.
On the other end of the ice, defensive force Dan Boyle and the rest of his squad will have to play a tight game and help out goalie Marc Denis, who has yet to prove himself in the playoffs. If the Devil’s sophomore phenom Zach Parise and captain Patrick Elias get too many scoring opportunities, then the Lightning will be going home early.
3. Atlanta Thrashers vs. 6 New York Rangers
What happens when you have two teams with young, hotshot goalies, veteran goal scorers’ and a brood of enforcers? You get a toss up. This will be a series to watch. Both of these teams have come to a knife fight packing some serious fire power. On one hand you have the Thrashers’ Marian Hossa who has racked up an impressive 100 points this season along with teammate Ilya Kovulchuck who has light the lamp 42 times. If anyone tries to touch these gifted scorers, they are faced with the wraith of one Bobby Holik. The Rangers are a mirror image. With snipers like Martin Straka and Jaromir Jagr, goals will be a plenty. If anyone gets a bit too physical with them, send in bad boy Sean Avery (former boyfriend of the gorgeous Elisha Cuthbert of 24 and The Girl Next Store) recently acquired from the L.A. Kings to cause a ruckus. If he can’t get the job done, the list of tough guys goes on with Colton Orr and Ryan Hollweg, the Rangers are definitely not a team you want to mess with. This will be a very physical match up.
3. Atlanta Thrashers vs. 6 New York Rangers
What happens when you have two teams with young, hotshot goalies, veteran goal scorers’ and a brood of enforcers? You get a toss up. This will be a series to watch. Both of these teams have come to a knife fight packing some serious fire power. On one hand you have the Thrashers’ Marian Hossa who has racked up an impressive 100 points this season along with teammate Ilya Kovulchuck who has light the lamp 42 times. If anyone tries to touch these gifted scorers, they are faced with the wraith of one Bobby Holik. The Rangers are a mirror image. With snipers like Martin Straka and Jaromir Jagr, goals will be a plenty. If anyone gets a bit too physical with them, send in bad boy Sean Avery (former boyfriend of the gorgeous Elisha Cuthbert of 24 and The Girl Next Store) recently acquired from the L.A. Kings to cause a ruckus. If he can’t get the job done, the list of tough guys goes on with Colton Orr and Ryan Hollweg, the Rangers are definitely not a team you want to mess with. This will be a very physical match up.
Goalies, Keri Lehtonen and Henrik Lundqvist both have the ability to steal the show, and when you throw players like Brendan Shannahan and Keith Tkachuk into the mix; it just gets better and better. When the coin lands, I predict the Rangers to be on top, but its going to be a long series that comes down to the last game.
4. Ottawa Senators vs. 5. Pittsburgh Penguins
This is the series that everyone is talking about. It is the NHL scoring leader Sidney Crosby’s first playoff appearance, against Ottawa, the only Canadian team from the East to make it to the post season. With all the focus on Sid the Kid, many other great players on the Penguins are being overlooked. Twenty-year old Evgeni Malkin and Eighteen-year old Jordan Staal are playing way past their years. The Penguins were not supposed to be this good this fast. Marc-Andre Fleury, another youngster for the Pens, at age twenty two, has been a rock between the pipes. With seasoned players like Mark Recchi and Gary Roberts to help guide them, this young team has a chance of becoming even better than the Penguins of 91-92 who won two consecutive cups. With the recent acquisition of brawler Georges Laraque, no one will be giving the kids a hard time. When Crosby is on the ice, he can turn anyone into a goal scorer. A Stanley Cup win at his age, will solidify all the talk of him becoming the next “great one.”
The Senators are not too shabby themselves. Their main man, Dany Heatley is coming off of a 105 point season. Goalie Ray Emery(no relation) plays with fire and emotion, and players like Jason Spezza and Daniel Alfredsson help round out this team. They are lacking a little on the blue line with the loss of Zdeno Chara, although the way he played this year, it wouldn’t have made that much of a difference.
That is all I can really say about the Senators. I am far too excited to see the Penguins win this series. After seeing them live at the Garden, when they made a fool out of the Bruins, it is easy to say they are one of the most, if not the most exciting team to watch in hockey. This battle begins tonight on Versus at 7 P.M.
That is all I can really say about the Senators. I am far too excited to see the Penguins win this series. After seeing them live at the Garden, when they made a fool out of the Bruins, it is easy to say they are one of the most, if not the most exciting team to watch in hockey. This battle begins tonight on Versus at 7 P.M.
Western Conference
1. Detroit Red Wings vs. 8. Calgary Flames
The Bruins and the Flames swapped players at the trade deadline. They both were trying to make the playoffs. The Bruins didn’t, the Flames did, but they aren’t getting out of the first round, not against Detroit. It seems like year in and year out Detroit has a good team. Granted they are from Michigan, where playing hockey is a way of life, but sooner or later you’d expect them to have a bad year. Surely, it was not this year as they finished at the top of their Conference. This goalie duel is one made in heaven. Dominic Hasek at one end, Mikka Kiprusoff at the other, if they both play to their full potential, we are sure to see lots of overtime play and low scoring games. The past few years the Red Wings have had trouble in the playoffs and are due for a good showing. Last year they fell to the eight seed Edmonton Oilers, who then went on to play in the championship finals.
With Forty-five-year old defenseman Chris Chelios looking at retirement, and Hasek not getting any younger, now is the time for them to step up to the plate. They have the skill in players like Pavel Datsyuk, Henrik Zetterberg and Nick Lindstrom, but it will all depend if they come out to play.
The Flames are also a great team. With scorers Jarome Iginlia and Daymond Langkow and have a very hard hitting defense led by Dion Phaneuf, they will be tough competition. Still, with new editions Wayne Primeau and Brad Stuart still looking to fit in, Calgary needs more time to mature and learn to play with better chemistry.
Beating Hasek when he is in “dominator” mode is next to impossible, and that is why I believe that the Red Wings will be victorious at the end of this series.
Beating Hasek when he is in “dominator” mode is next to impossible, and that is why I believe that the Red Wings will be victorious at the end of this series.
2. Anaheim Ducks vs. 7. Minnesota Wild
They may have dropped the “mighty” from their name, but not from their play. It’s still hard to see a team named after a Disney movie as one of the best in the NHL, but that is exactly what they are. As much as I would like to see Brian Rolston and the Wild win this round, I am afraid it is not going to happen. Anaheim just has too much going on for them. Other than the Sharks, no team in the NHL has been able to get their number.
Teemu Selanne goes out every night and impresses the fans with his amazing play. He is backed up by Andy McDonald, a guy who most people don’t even know. He was an alternate who fell into an All Star Game position, and then went on to win the fastest skater award, and prove he is the real deal. McDonald ended this season with 78 points and is a key asset to the Ducks, be sure to watch for him in these upcoming weeks.
Enforcement will be handled by big guy Chris Pronger on the blue line, who will be feeding off of the motivation from last years Stanley Cup loss during his time with the Oilers. The Niedermeyer brothers and the toughness from Sean O’Donnell seal up this team and show that there are just no holes to be found. Goaltender Jean-Sebastien Giguere is coming off a great season, and rookies all over this club are popping up and making names for themselves like Ryan Getzlaf(50+point season) and Corey Perry (40+point season). This is truly a no brainer, Anahiem will be moving on to the second round of the playoffs.
3. Vancouver Canucks vs. 6. Dallas Stars
The Vancouver Canucks are not a team many hockey fans in New England know much about. They are in the Western conference, and in Canada, but they are a force to be reckoned with. Led by the Sedin twins, Daniel with 36 goals and Henrik with 71 assists, the Canucks hope to bring the Cup back to Canada. Like almost every team that has made it to the playoffs, they are backed by a top goaltender, Roberto Luongo. Luongo who was stuck with the losing Florida Panthers for a few years, now has a chance to prove himself in the playoffs as one of the NHL’s top tenders, if not the best.
The Stars have been plagued with injuries this season, missing top forwards like Brendan Morrow and Mike Modano for more than just a few games. Despite that, they still put together a decent season and secured a nice playoff position. Will All Star goalie Marty Turco and emotional forward Mike Ribeiro be able to help the Stars upset the Canucks? They might, but I wouldn’t put money on it.
4. Nashville Predators vs. 5. San Jose Sharks
Playoff hockey does not get much better than this. The Preds edged out the Sharks for the 4th seed by a mere 3 points. Last year, these two met in the 1st round of the playoffs, as the 4th and 5th seed and San Jose easily took the series in a five game upset. Based around Joe Thornton with his 114 points this season, the Sharks are extremely dangerous on the power play. Boasting the best power play percentage in the league for most of the season, Thornton racked up assist after assist as he fed goal scorers Jonathan Cheechoo and Milan Michalek, and that’s just the first line. The Sharks also have Patrick Marleau and Bill Guerin. Guerin, coming over from St. Louis was the biggest trade on deadline day. Guerin has won the cup twice before with New Jersey and knows what it takes to get to the top again. The goaltending duty is pretty much split 50/50 between Evgeni Nabokov and Vesa Toskala, who are both of the “starting goal
ie” status. If the Sharks can work their coveted power play, and their cast of young stars such as Joe Pavelski and Steve Bernier handle the pressure of the playoffs, I see them coming out on top. Marleau has a reputation of really turning up his play in the post season and last years leading goal scorer, Cheechoo has been on a roll lately with a recent hat trick. If they all can come together around the great Joe Thornton then I predict the Sharks skating on to the next round, but in a close game 7 win.
Games will be televised on Versus and NBC. Check your local listings.
Games will be televised on Versus and NBC. Check your local listings.
Also available streaming online at yahoosports.com
The Real Curse Reserved
On Sunday, April 15th Major League Baseball will honor perhaps the most important player in its history. A man who changed not only the game of Baseball, but was a pioneer of Civil Rights years before Rosa Parks never stood up on that bus or Dr. Martin Luther King told us his dream.
A man who integrated the races before Brown could fight the board of education. A man who before Malcolm X prophetically proclaimed "by any means necessary," did what he had to for his people and his country. This man of course was Jack Roosevelt "Jackie" Robinson.
This Sunday all across baseball teams will honor the sixtieth anniversary of Jackie's brave and historic achievement as the first black man ever to play in Major League Baseball.
Black players all around the league will wear number 42 in his honor that day. Players such as the Kansas City Royals outfielder Reggie Sanders, Florida Marlins ace pitcher Dontrelle Willis, future Hall of Famer, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. The entire Los Angeles Dodgers team will take the field this Sunday at Dodger Stadium wearing 42.
There is also another local player who will be wearing 42 to honor Jackie Robinson this Sunday though. Covelli "Coco" Crisp, outfielder for the Boston Red Sox will wear the number to honor Robinson and his impact on the game.
This will truly be a great day for baseball but it will have particular special meaning at Fenway Park. The Boston Red Sox past when it comes to race relations is perhaps the most shameful in all of sports. The Red Sox were the last team in all of the Major Leagues to have a black player on their roster. Elijah Jerry "Pumpsie" Green was the first black man to ever don a Red Sox uniform twelve years after Jackie wore Dodger blue and two years after he retired.
Pumpsie was never truly given a fair chance with the Sox and was released after the 1962 season. This obvious case of bigotry and hatred by then owner Tom Yawkey and his organization is the real curse of the Boston Red Sox. A curse Ted Williams himself called "shameful."
There was never any curse of the bambino, that was made up to make Red Sox fans feel better about losing, but the curse of segregation still lingered for years and years.....until now. Until tonight.
Tonight at Fenway Park, an historic event will happen, Daisuke Matsuzaka will step onto the rubber at the Fens, and the first batter he will face will be Seattle Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki.
Tonight is not about this achievement for Japanese baseball, no, tonight is about an achievement far greater than that. In the field behind Daisuke will be with players from all different backgrounds and heritage including three of Latin decent in 3B Mike Lowell (Cuban), SS Julio Lugo (Dominican) and RF Manny Ramirez (Dominican); Three of white heritage in 1B Kevin Youkilis, J.D. Drew, and 2B Dustin Pedroia, and of course there will be CF Coco Crisp of African-American blood.
Tonight is a night the Red Sox can be proud, tonight is a night John Henry, Larry Lucchino, Tom Werner, and especially Brookline's own Theo Epstein can look out upon the field and say, "we done good."
Can the past be erased? No. The Red Sox will always have that (no pun intended) black mark on their past, but as you look out tonight on Fenway with Daisuke on the mound and all those men behind him, think to yourself this thought: tonight is the night the Red Sox apologize to all those they hurt, all those they shunned, all those they kept out for the selfish and pathetic reason of race.
Maybe they do not formally say it at any press conference or in any release document, but they do not have to anymore. Tonight the REAL CURSE of the Red Sox, the curse of Pumpsie Green, the curse of Tom Yakey.........the curse of Jackie Robinson.......is reversed.
A man who integrated the races before Brown could fight the board of education. A man who before Malcolm X prophetically proclaimed "by any means necessary," did what he had to for his people and his country. This man of course was Jack Roosevelt "Jackie" Robinson.
This Sunday all across baseball teams will honor the sixtieth anniversary of Jackie's brave and historic achievement as the first black man ever to play in Major League Baseball.
Black players all around the league will wear number 42 in his honor that day. Players such as the Kansas City Royals outfielder Reggie Sanders, Florida Marlins ace pitcher Dontrelle Willis, future Hall of Famer, Cincinnati Reds outfielder Ken Griffey Jr. The entire Los Angeles Dodgers team will take the field this Sunday at Dodger Stadium wearing 42.
There is also another local player who will be wearing 42 to honor Jackie Robinson this Sunday though. Covelli "Coco" Crisp, outfielder for the Boston Red Sox will wear the number to honor Robinson and his impact on the game.
This will truly be a great day for baseball but it will have particular special meaning at Fenway Park. The Boston Red Sox past when it comes to race relations is perhaps the most shameful in all of sports. The Red Sox were the last team in all of the Major Leagues to have a black player on their roster. Elijah Jerry "Pumpsie" Green was the first black man to ever don a Red Sox uniform twelve years after Jackie wore Dodger blue and two years after he retired.
Pumpsie was never truly given a fair chance with the Sox and was released after the 1962 season. This obvious case of bigotry and hatred by then owner Tom Yawkey and his organization is the real curse of the Boston Red Sox. A curse Ted Williams himself called "shameful."
There was never any curse of the bambino, that was made up to make Red Sox fans feel better about losing, but the curse of segregation still lingered for years and years.....until now. Until tonight.
Tonight at Fenway Park, an historic event will happen, Daisuke Matsuzaka will step onto the rubber at the Fens, and the first batter he will face will be Seattle Mariners outfielder Ichiro Suzuki.
Tonight is not about this achievement for Japanese baseball, no, tonight is about an achievement far greater than that. In the field behind Daisuke will be with players from all different backgrounds and heritage including three of Latin decent in 3B Mike Lowell (Cuban), SS Julio Lugo (Dominican) and RF Manny Ramirez (Dominican); Three of white heritage in 1B Kevin Youkilis, J.D. Drew, and 2B Dustin Pedroia, and of course there will be CF Coco Crisp of African-American blood.
Tonight is a night the Red Sox can be proud, tonight is a night John Henry, Larry Lucchino, Tom Werner, and especially Brookline's own Theo Epstein can look out upon the field and say, "we done good."
Can the past be erased? No. The Red Sox will always have that (no pun intended) black mark on their past, but as you look out tonight on Fenway with Daisuke on the mound and all those men behind him, think to yourself this thought: tonight is the night the Red Sox apologize to all those they hurt, all those they shunned, all those they kept out for the selfish and pathetic reason of race.
Maybe they do not formally say it at any press conference or in any release document, but they do not have to anymore. Tonight the REAL CURSE of the Red Sox, the curse of Pumpsie Green, the curse of Tom Yakey.........the curse of Jackie Robinson.......is reversed.
Tuesday, April 10, 2007
BSC Baseball makes history
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
Information in this report is courtesy of the Sports Information Department and Mike Holbrook, SID
In a record setting performance, the Bridgewater State College baseball team equaled or tied a number of NCAA and school records as the Bears defeated Newbury College, 57-1, yesterday at Alumni Park.
In a game that lasted only 7 innings, BSC broke the single-game RBI record and tied the single-game hits record for all NCAA Divisions. The Bears registered 54 runs batted in and pounded out 44 hits. The old RBI record of 53 was set by Division II University of Saint Francis of Illinois versus Robert Morris on April 2, 1996. The NCAA hits record of 44 was accomplished by Saint Francis in the very same game.
The Bears shattered the Division III records for most runs scored in a game and greatest margin of victory which was set by Marietta College back in 1999. Marietta defeated La Roche College, 48-0, on April 7, 1999.
Bridgewater scored 13 runs in the first inning, 9 in the second, 9 in the third, 16 in the fourth, 8 in the fifth, and a pair of runs in the sixth. The 16-run fourth inning set the school mark for the most runs in an inning. The previous record was a 13-run fourth innings in a 30-0 win at Fitchburg State on April 27, 2002. Along with their 44 hits, the Bears were also issued 20 base-on-balls and were hit by pitch 4 times.
Junior Steve Smith tied the NCAA Division III single-game record for hits with 7. Entering the 2007 season, nine players had recoded 7 hits in a game at the Division III level. Most recently C.R Braniff of George Fox banged out 7 hits in a game versus Willamette on March 25, 2006. Smith also set the school record for the most hits in a game and the most RBI in a game with 10.
Smith and freshman Mark Claffey also set the school record for the most runs scored in a game with 7. Both the BSC single-game RBI and runs scored records were previously held by current assistant coach Matt Poitras. Poitras scored 6 runs and drove in 9 versus Wesleyan on April 10, 1997. Smith also belted his second home run of the season in the third inning, a grand slam well over the left field fence.
The Bears were also led by senior Andrew Dillon, who was 5-for-8 with 9 RBI and 6 runs scored on the game. Dillon also hit his fifth and sixth home runs of the season in the game. He hit a two-run home run in the first inning and a grand slam in the fifth.
Including Smith and Dillon, Bridgewater State had 12 players who had at least 2 hits in the game. Of those 12, eight players had 3 or more hits on the game. Standing out for the Bears was Claffey who was 6-for-8 with 7 RBI and seven runs scored and junior Kelly LaDow was 4-for-4 with 3 runs batted in and 4 runs scored.
The game was won by freshman right-hander Ben Altman who picked up his second strait win. In 5 innings he gave up only 2 hits, struck out 7 batters and walked one. He was relieved by junior Pat Higham, who gave a run on two hits. He struck out one and did not walk a batter.
The Bears will play a double header versus #10 ranked Wheaton College tomorrow. We will bring you the highlights.
-Here are some link's from the region and the nation:
-Here's the coverage from the Lowell Sun
-The Enterprise has two links. This is the better one.
-Patriot Ledger also has two links. This one is good.
-The Chicago-Sun Times even has coverage.
-I picked this one up from some of the players away messages from SI.
Information in this report is courtesy of the Sports Information Department and Mike Holbrook, SID
In a record setting performance, the Bridgewater State College baseball team equaled or tied a number of NCAA and school records as the Bears defeated Newbury College, 57-1, yesterday at Alumni Park.
In a game that lasted only 7 innings, BSC broke the single-game RBI record and tied the single-game hits record for all NCAA Divisions. The Bears registered 54 runs batted in and pounded out 44 hits. The old RBI record of 53 was set by Division II University of Saint Francis of Illinois versus Robert Morris on April 2, 1996. The NCAA hits record of 44 was accomplished by Saint Francis in the very same game.
The Bears shattered the Division III records for most runs scored in a game and greatest margin of victory which was set by Marietta College back in 1999. Marietta defeated La Roche College, 48-0, on April 7, 1999.
Bridgewater scored 13 runs in the first inning, 9 in the second, 9 in the third, 16 in the fourth, 8 in the fifth, and a pair of runs in the sixth. The 16-run fourth inning set the school mark for the most runs in an inning. The previous record was a 13-run fourth innings in a 30-0 win at Fitchburg State on April 27, 2002. Along with their 44 hits, the Bears were also issued 20 base-on-balls and were hit by pitch 4 times.
Junior Steve Smith tied the NCAA Division III single-game record for hits with 7. Entering the 2007 season, nine players had recoded 7 hits in a game at the Division III level. Most recently C.R Braniff of George Fox banged out 7 hits in a game versus Willamette on March 25, 2006. Smith also set the school record for the most hits in a game and the most RBI in a game with 10.
Smith and freshman Mark Claffey also set the school record for the most runs scored in a game with 7. Both the BSC single-game RBI and runs scored records were previously held by current assistant coach Matt Poitras. Poitras scored 6 runs and drove in 9 versus Wesleyan on April 10, 1997. Smith also belted his second home run of the season in the third inning, a grand slam well over the left field fence.
The Bears were also led by senior Andrew Dillon, who was 5-for-8 with 9 RBI and 6 runs scored on the game. Dillon also hit his fifth and sixth home runs of the season in the game. He hit a two-run home run in the first inning and a grand slam in the fifth.
Including Smith and Dillon, Bridgewater State had 12 players who had at least 2 hits in the game. Of those 12, eight players had 3 or more hits on the game. Standing out for the Bears was Claffey who was 6-for-8 with 7 RBI and seven runs scored and junior Kelly LaDow was 4-for-4 with 3 runs batted in and 4 runs scored.
The game was won by freshman right-hander Ben Altman who picked up his second strait win. In 5 innings he gave up only 2 hits, struck out 7 batters and walked one. He was relieved by junior Pat Higham, who gave a run on two hits. He struck out one and did not walk a batter.
The Bears will play a double header versus #10 ranked Wheaton College tomorrow. We will bring you the highlights.
-Here are some link's from the region and the nation:
-Here's the coverage from the Lowell Sun
-The Enterprise has two links. This is the better one.
-Patriot Ledger also has two links. This one is good.
-The Chicago-Sun Times even has coverage.
-I picked this one up from some of the players away messages from SI.
Monday, April 9, 2007
Baseball team to play Newbury College
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The Baseball team will be playing Newbury College at 3:30 PM. The plan is to have coverage after the event and quotes from Coach Smith and his thoughts on the game and the week ahead.
-Stay tuned for updates and more information
-The Baseball team will be playing Newbury College at 3:30 PM. The plan is to have coverage after the event and quotes from Coach Smith and his thoughts on the game and the week ahead.
-Stay tuned for updates and more information
Saturday, April 7, 2007
Softball to play Salem State in doubleheader
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-While the Men's Baseball game is cancelled, the Softball team looks to rebound after an 0-4 record on the week. The BSC Softball team was shut out in three strait games (second game was a perfect game versus Wheaton College) and came close to winning the fourth game versus RIC. The team takes on Salem State today at 12 pm.
The game 1 starter will be Stephanie Piece. Pierce brings an 0-5 record in 7 appearances and 6 game starts. In 36.2 innings pitched she brings a 2.62 ERA allowing 15 walks and striking out 29. Pierce told me this morning that she is excited to pitch and she hopes that she can get her first win of the season today.
It is projected that sophomore Alyssa Verronneau will get the start in game 2. The 4-1 right hander brings a 1.50 ERA in 28 innings pitched. Verroneau has allowed 10 walks and struck out 19. She also has 5 complete games in 5 starts and three shutouts.
The Bridgewater State softball team has a 7-10-1 overall record and is 1-1 in MASCAC Conference play.
-The Men's Tennis team also plays thier first conference game this afternoon versus West Conn and the track team has a meet at Fitchburg State.
We will bring you the highlights of the Men's Tennis, Softball, and Track teams when they become availible.
-While the Men's Baseball game is cancelled, the Softball team looks to rebound after an 0-4 record on the week. The BSC Softball team was shut out in three strait games (second game was a perfect game versus Wheaton College) and came close to winning the fourth game versus RIC. The team takes on Salem State today at 12 pm.
The game 1 starter will be Stephanie Piece. Pierce brings an 0-5 record in 7 appearances and 6 game starts. In 36.2 innings pitched she brings a 2.62 ERA allowing 15 walks and striking out 29. Pierce told me this morning that she is excited to pitch and she hopes that she can get her first win of the season today.
It is projected that sophomore Alyssa Verronneau will get the start in game 2. The 4-1 right hander brings a 1.50 ERA in 28 innings pitched. Verroneau has allowed 10 walks and struck out 19. She also has 5 complete games in 5 starts and three shutouts.
The Bridgewater State softball team has a 7-10-1 overall record and is 1-1 in MASCAC Conference play.
-The Men's Tennis team also plays thier first conference game this afternoon versus West Conn and the track team has a meet at Fitchburg State.
We will bring you the highlights of the Men's Tennis, Softball, and Track teams when they become availible.
Baseball vs Salem double-header postponed
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The baseball team arrived at the Tinsley Center at 9 am only to find out that their double header versus Salem State will be postponed until next weekend. Coach Smith was told that the game might be cancelled (late last night) but the game couldn't be called off until they knew for sure. In addition to a muddy infield, the game would have been played on the water in 30 below temperatures, with a 15-20 MPH wind, coming off the water. Conditions wouldn't have been very good at game time.
It is projected that Bridgewater will make up the game next weekend. In addition to the 3 games the team is playing this week (Newbury-Monday; Doubleheader vs Wheaton on Wed; Brandeis-Friday), the Bears play home versus Framingham on Saturday, they are projected to play Salem State away on the Sunday and then Westfield College on the Monday. The baseball team still has to play UMass Boston as well. We will keep you updated on this situation as we find out more information.
The team practiced on the football field. The outfield looked better than the infield. Apparently there was a frost last night and once it settled on the field and melted it turned to mud. The team took infield-outfield practice right in the SW corner of the football field. After that the position players took batting practice inside the batting cages.
With the Sunday off (because of the holiday), the Bears play Newbury College on Monday. Freshman right hander Ben Altman is projected to be the starter. Altman, the number five starter, is 1-0 on the season in 2 appearances and one start, with a 2.53 ERA. In 10.2 innings he has allowed 4 walks and struck out 2 batters.
-The baseball team arrived at the Tinsley Center at 9 am only to find out that their double header versus Salem State will be postponed until next weekend. Coach Smith was told that the game might be cancelled (late last night) but the game couldn't be called off until they knew for sure. In addition to a muddy infield, the game would have been played on the water in 30 below temperatures, with a 15-20 MPH wind, coming off the water. Conditions wouldn't have been very good at game time.
It is projected that Bridgewater will make up the game next weekend. In addition to the 3 games the team is playing this week (Newbury-Monday; Doubleheader vs Wheaton on Wed; Brandeis-Friday), the Bears play home versus Framingham on Saturday, they are projected to play Salem State away on the Sunday and then Westfield College on the Monday. The baseball team still has to play UMass Boston as well. We will keep you updated on this situation as we find out more information.
The team practiced on the football field. The outfield looked better than the infield. Apparently there was a frost last night and once it settled on the field and melted it turned to mud. The team took infield-outfield practice right in the SW corner of the football field. After that the position players took batting practice inside the batting cages.
With the Sunday off (because of the holiday), the Bears play Newbury College on Monday. Freshman right hander Ben Altman is projected to be the starter. Altman, the number five starter, is 1-0 on the season in 2 appearances and one start, with a 2.53 ERA. In 10.2 innings he has allowed 4 walks and struck out 2 batters.
Friday, April 6, 2007
Dice - K starts off right
Shawn Medeiros
Sports Editor
In a game that could have painted Daisuke Matsuzaka's future reputation, the Japanese star's outing was better than a Picasso masterpiece.
Struggling in the first inning and getting out of it with a double play ball Matsuzaka was beyond brilliant through the rest of the game.
His final stat line read seven innings pitched, six hits, one run, one earned run, one walk, and 10 strikeouts. Not a bad performance to start a major league career.
The most startling aspect of his performance was not in his stat line. It was how he handled certain situations throughout the game.
In the first inning with two men on and one out Dice-K could have easily caved in and let the game slip away from him. Although, that was not the case for Matsuzaka. He got out of the inning with a double play ball, then settled down, and painted corners with Greg Maddux like precision.
Dice-K did give up a homer to David Dejusus and also got out of a jam with a double play by way of strike em' out and throw em' out but overall it was a great first outing for Matsuzaka.
Here is a break down of Dice-K's innings courtesy of ESPN.com
Kansas City - Bottom of 1st (1-0)
D DeJesus singled to center.
E German grounded into fielder's choice to second, D DeJesus out at second.
M Teahen walked, E German to second.
E Brown grounded into double play, pitcher to shortstop to first, M Teahen out at second.
0 Runs, 1 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 2nd (1-0)
A Gordon flied out to left.
R Shealy lined out to right.
R Gload struck out swinging.
0 Runs, 0 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 3rd (1-0)
J Buck struck out looking.
T Pena grounded out to pitcher.
D DeJesus flied out to center.
0 Runs, 0 Hits, 0 Errors
J Buck struck out looking.
T Pena grounded out to pitcher.
D DeJesus flied out to center.
0 Runs, 0 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 4th (1-0)
E German struck out looking.
M Teahen struck out swinging.
E Brown struck out swinging.
0 Runs, 0 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 5th (2-0)
A Gordon singled to left.
R Shealy struck out looking.
R Gload flied out to right.
J Buck singled to center, A Gordon to third.
T Pena grounded out to pitcher.
0 Runs, 2 Hits, 0 Errors
R Shealy struck out looking.
R Gload flied out to right.
J Buck singled to center, A Gordon to third.
T Pena grounded out to pitcher.
0 Runs, 2 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 6th (2-1)
D DeJesus homered to right.
E German singled to center.
M Teahen struck out looking. E German caught stealing second, catcher to shortstop.
E Brown doubled to deep left center.
A Gordon struck out looking.
1 Runs, 3 Hits, 0 Errors
E German singled to center.
M Teahen struck out looking. E German caught stealing second, catcher to shortstop.
E Brown doubled to deep left center.
A Gordon struck out looking.
1 Runs, 3 Hits, 0 Errors
Kansas City - Bottom of 7th (2-1)
R Shealy struck out swinging.
R Gload struck out swinging.
J Buck flied out to center.
0 Runs, 0 Hits, 0 Errors
Overall, I give Dice-K a B+ for his first career start in the major leagues. The only reason why I do this is because if you thought this was a good outing wait until his next couple of starts.
(AP Photo/Ed Zurga)
Thursday, April 5, 2007
Softball game postponed, Baseball game in doubt
Steven M Miller Jr, Staff Writer
-The BSC Softball team was supposed to play a double-header versus Tufts University, but that game has been postponed until next Monday (4/9). The tarp was lifted this afternoon in the h0pes of getting a game in, but the executive decision was made not to play. The team practiced inside today, working on their hitting. The next softball game is scheduled for this Saturday. They play Salem State away on Saturday.
-The Bridgewater State Baseball team lifted thier tarp this afternoon. The team folded up the tarp in left field on a gigantic puddle, that covered shallow left. Upon walking in the outfield you could see puddles in various spots throughout. Walking on the grass was an adventure, your foot sunk like there was no grass.
After the team rolled up the tarp, the fielders worked in the infield, and the outfielders caught fly balls on the football field. The pitchers then went to Tinsley and ran on the track above the gym. The position players worked on their batting for the rest of practice. During practice they listened to the rest of the Red Sox win over Kansas City.
Head coach Rick Smith said at practice that the outcome of getting the game is in doubt, but he still thought there was a possibility of playing. He said that freshman Ben Altman would get the start for Umass Boston (9-5). Umass Boston this week split a double header versus Umass Dartmouth (0-3 L, 11-6 W) on Saturday, swept a double header versus Worcester State (10-2 W, 11-3 W), on Sunday, and beat Salem State 9-2 on Wenesday.
If there should be no game tomorrow the Baseball team looks to continue league play at Salem State. The weather forcast is supposed to be 30-35 degrees, down by the water, with the wind at about 10 MPH. Should be an interresting game if it gets played. Senior Ace Jordan Richards gets the start in Game 1 and sophomore veteran Dave Liffers will get the start in Game 2.
-The plan tomorrow is to get some quotes from Coach Smith and softball coach Janet Maguire. We will try to get some players quotes too. Stay tuned.
-The BSC Softball team was supposed to play a double-header versus Tufts University, but that game has been postponed until next Monday (4/9). The tarp was lifted this afternoon in the h0pes of getting a game in, but the executive decision was made not to play. The team practiced inside today, working on their hitting. The next softball game is scheduled for this Saturday. They play Salem State away on Saturday.
-The Bridgewater State Baseball team lifted thier tarp this afternoon. The team folded up the tarp in left field on a gigantic puddle, that covered shallow left. Upon walking in the outfield you could see puddles in various spots throughout. Walking on the grass was an adventure, your foot sunk like there was no grass.
After the team rolled up the tarp, the fielders worked in the infield, and the outfielders caught fly balls on the football field. The pitchers then went to Tinsley and ran on the track above the gym. The position players worked on their batting for the rest of practice. During practice they listened to the rest of the Red Sox win over Kansas City.
Head coach Rick Smith said at practice that the outcome of getting the game is in doubt, but he still thought there was a possibility of playing. He said that freshman Ben Altman would get the start for Umass Boston (9-5). Umass Boston this week split a double header versus Umass Dartmouth (0-3 L, 11-6 W) on Saturday, swept a double header versus Worcester State (10-2 W, 11-3 W), on Sunday, and beat Salem State 9-2 on Wenesday.
If there should be no game tomorrow the Baseball team looks to continue league play at Salem State. The weather forcast is supposed to be 30-35 degrees, down by the water, with the wind at about 10 MPH. Should be an interresting game if it gets played. Senior Ace Jordan Richards gets the start in Game 1 and sophomore veteran Dave Liffers will get the start in Game 2.
-The plan tomorrow is to get some quotes from Coach Smith and softball coach Janet Maguire. We will try to get some players quotes too. Stay tuned.
Wednesday, April 4, 2007
In The Presence of Greatness
Bill King - Staff Writer
A French novelist and playwright named Jean Giraudoux was a man of many words. "The secret of success is sincerity" exclaimed Giraudoux, "once you can fake that you've got it made." There is another man who has taken it upon himself to prove Mr. Giraudoux's words are not hot air, by faking every batter he faces into them thinking they have a prayer at the plate. The ace of the Minnesota Twins staff, Johan Alexander Santana, is a truly special individual. So special that you can't find a person whom has any sense of baseball knowledge that will deny he is without a doubt the best pitcher in the entire world today.
Just think about what that statement means for a moment. "The best"... usually a statement of personal opinion and rarely a unanimous decision. At the age of only 28, he has compiled a 78-31 record. No, he does not have the massive support of a powerful lineup like the Yankees. Not until the past year has he had any workable run support. But when you put up 1152-314 K/BB numbers, who needs a lineup to bat for you when the opposition is only making a short visit to the batters box, anyhow?
I remember growing up, sitting next to my father and watching a very special individual named Roger Clemens. We knew we were watching something special every time he painted the outside corner with a heater, and then followed it up with a filthy splitter in the dirt only to watch the batters swing through helplessly. They knew it was coming, but it really didn't matter. Much like Santana, Clemens never had a dominating offense contributing to his more than impressive numbers. I am not here to question the greatness of Roger Clemens, but when I watch Johan Santana completely dominate the more advanced, stronger and intelligent hitters of today I can't help but feel he is briskly stepping up the ladder of greatness. Just watching him constantly come after hitters with a dominating fastball and a change up that is practically unhittable can get any baseball fan sitting on the edge of his or her seat in amazement.
When you have guys like Joel Zumaya throwing 103 MPH fastballs, and guys like Ryan Howard hitting home runs to jaw-dropping distances, it's hard to be bias. So there, maybe I am saying that at the young age of 28, Santana is the best pitcher to ever grace a Major League Baseball uniform. Maybe I am a little premature to stamp his ticket into the Hall of Fame, and to eternal greatness. Statements like mine have been made about many players who looked great and then disappeared due to varying reasons. However, I urge you to join my excitement and utter disbelief while Johan Santana is in his prime. Maybe you will become a believer too, but I doubt that it will be my words that convince you.
A French novelist and playwright named Jean Giraudoux was a man of many words. "The secret of success is sincerity" exclaimed Giraudoux, "once you can fake that you've got it made." There is another man who has taken it upon himself to prove Mr. Giraudoux's words are not hot air, by faking every batter he faces into them thinking they have a prayer at the plate. The ace of the Minnesota Twins staff, Johan Alexander Santana, is a truly special individual. So special that you can't find a person whom has any sense of baseball knowledge that will deny he is without a doubt the best pitcher in the entire world today.
Just think about what that statement means for a moment. "The best"... usually a statement of personal opinion and rarely a unanimous decision. At the age of only 28, he has compiled a 78-31 record. No, he does not have the massive support of a powerful lineup like the Yankees. Not until the past year has he had any workable run support. But when you put up 1152-314 K/BB numbers, who needs a lineup to bat for you when the opposition is only making a short visit to the batters box, anyhow?
I remember growing up, sitting next to my father and watching a very special individual named Roger Clemens. We knew we were watching something special every time he painted the outside corner with a heater, and then followed it up with a filthy splitter in the dirt only to watch the batters swing through helplessly. They knew it was coming, but it really didn't matter. Much like Santana, Clemens never had a dominating offense contributing to his more than impressive numbers. I am not here to question the greatness of Roger Clemens, but when I watch Johan Santana completely dominate the more advanced, stronger and intelligent hitters of today I can't help but feel he is briskly stepping up the ladder of greatness. Just watching him constantly come after hitters with a dominating fastball and a change up that is practically unhittable can get any baseball fan sitting on the edge of his or her seat in amazement.When you have guys like Joel Zumaya throwing 103 MPH fastballs, and guys like Ryan Howard hitting home runs to jaw-dropping distances, it's hard to be bias. So there, maybe I am saying that at the young age of 28, Santana is the best pitcher to ever grace a Major League Baseball uniform. Maybe I am a little premature to stamp his ticket into the Hall of Fame, and to eternal greatness. Statements like mine have been made about many players who looked great and then disappeared due to varying reasons. However, I urge you to join my excitement and utter disbelief while Johan Santana is in his prime. Maybe you will become a believer too, but I doubt that it will be my words that convince you.
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