Yankees 5, Brewers 0
W: Sabathia (11-4) L: Wolf (6-5)
The series in New York sums up the Brewers season on the road pretty well. Nothing seems to be going right and the losing continues.
With the 81st game of the season played today, it tells us two things. The season is half way done and the Brewers have some work to do. The good news is if the season did end today, the Brewers would have won the National League Central for the first time since 1982 and would be in the playoffs. I realize the Cardinals still have to play their game tonight but I am confident that Milwaukee would own the tiebreaker. However, if the Brewers do not shape up, first place will become a distant memory.
C.C. Sabathia pitched an outstanding game as he surrendered six hits over 7.2 innings. He threw all of his pitches efficiently, particularly his power slider which was excellent. His 13 strikeouts explains the Brewer's struggles at the plate.
Randy Wolf was not nearly as good, as he gave up four earned runs on seven hits in seven innings pitched. After Brett Gardner and Nick Swisher got on base, Wolf gave up a double to Robinson Cano, which gave the Yankees a two-run lead in the first inning. Any time you give Sabathia that kind of run support early on in a game, it is going to be a long day for the opposition. Mark Teixeira got his league leading 25th home run of the season on a solo shot to left field.
Ryan Braun continues his career-best hit streak, which is now at 20 games. His first-inning single made him the fifth player in franchise history to record a hitting streak of at least 20 games. Braun is now half way to Paul Molitor's franchise record of 39 games. Braun leads the majors in consecutive game hit streaks, ahead of Nick Markakis who is at 18 games and Prince Fielder who is at 11.
The Brewers look to continue their success against the Minnesota Twins as they visit Target Field this weekend.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Brewers lose, road woes continue
Yankees 5, Brewers 2
W: Burnett (8-6) L: Marcum (7-3) SV: Rivera (21)
The Brewers got on the board first with a Ryan Braun single that drove in Nyjer Morgan. Unfortunately, that was it on another dismal night for Milwaukee.
Yesterday I wrote about how the Brewers out-hit teams but still ended up losing. Tonight was no different as the Brewers out-hit the Yankees for the second game in a row. Shaun Marcum did not pitch much better than Grienke did last night, but at least he went half the game.
Marcum pitched five innings and gave up four earned runs on five hits. Robinson Cano led off the bottom of the fourth with a triple. Nick Swisher didn't waste much time as he singled to right field, scoring Cano with ease. Posada singled the next at-bat and that is when the game turned bad for Milwaukee. Marcum's biggest mistake of the night was the three-run homer given up to Russell Martin. It blew the game wide open and the Brewers could never recover.
It wouldn't be as upsetting if the Brewers played their hearts out. It seems that playing teams like New York and Boston is intimidating for the Milwaukee players. I do not understand why, considering they have just as much talent as any of those teams. If this is their way of getting the big spotlight jitters taken care of, then by all means please do. At least it happens now and not in October.
The Yankees played outstanding defense, some of the best in-field defense I have seen all season. A.J. Burnett did not pitch that great as he surrendered seven hits, but only gave up two runs. Fortunately for him, with talent the Yankees have on their roster, he does not need his "stuff" night in and night out. The Brewers did not help their cause as they hit into three double plays.
Tomorrow afternoon is another game and another chance to salvage this already disheartening road trip. Unfortunately, to do that the Brewers must beat the legend himself, C.C. Sabathia. The last time he was this close to a Brewer's uniform, the entire city of Milwaukee was riding his back to the promise land. Now we just have to hope he is half the man he used to be.
W: Burnett (8-6) L: Marcum (7-3) SV: Rivera (21)
The Brewers got on the board first with a Ryan Braun single that drove in Nyjer Morgan. Unfortunately, that was it on another dismal night for Milwaukee.
Yesterday I wrote about how the Brewers out-hit teams but still ended up losing. Tonight was no different as the Brewers out-hit the Yankees for the second game in a row. Shaun Marcum did not pitch much better than Grienke did last night, but at least he went half the game.
Marcum pitched five innings and gave up four earned runs on five hits. Robinson Cano led off the bottom of the fourth with a triple. Nick Swisher didn't waste much time as he singled to right field, scoring Cano with ease. Posada singled the next at-bat and that is when the game turned bad for Milwaukee. Marcum's biggest mistake of the night was the three-run homer given up to Russell Martin. It blew the game wide open and the Brewers could never recover.
It wouldn't be as upsetting if the Brewers played their hearts out. It seems that playing teams like New York and Boston is intimidating for the Milwaukee players. I do not understand why, considering they have just as much talent as any of those teams. If this is their way of getting the big spotlight jitters taken care of, then by all means please do. At least it happens now and not in October.
The Yankees played outstanding defense, some of the best in-field defense I have seen all season. A.J. Burnett did not pitch that great as he surrendered seven hits, but only gave up two runs. Fortunately for him, with talent the Yankees have on their roster, he does not need his "stuff" night in and night out. The Brewers did not help their cause as they hit into three double plays.
Tomorrow afternoon is another game and another chance to salvage this already disheartening road trip. Unfortunately, to do that the Brewers must beat the legend himself, C.C. Sabathia. The last time he was this close to a Brewer's uniform, the entire city of Milwaukee was riding his back to the promise land. Now we just have to hope he is half the man he used to be.
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Brewers get blasted by Yanks
Yankees 12, Brewers 2
W: Garcia (7-6) L: Grienke (7-3)
The Brewers worst lost of the season could not come at a worse time.
Matt Gamel recorded his first RBI in the majors this season with a single that drove in Prince Fielder. Yuniesky Betancourt got the Brewer's only other RBI of the game on a sacrifice double play that scored Corey Hart. This is as far as the highlights go for Milwaukee.
Zack Grienke pitched two innings of horrendous baseball in a tough loss. He gave up seven earned runs on five hits while walking three and striking out nobody. His ERA has jumped to 5.63, worst among team starting pitchers.
Marco Estrada was not much better when he came in to relieve Grienke. In three innings pitched, he gave up three earned runs on three hits while walking three. In fact all five pitchers in the game for the Brewers were bad. The only person to not give up an earned run was LaTroy Hawkins, whose current ERA is a remarkable 0.44.
In a game like this there is no doubt you blame it on the pitching, but let's be honest, the offense could not get a run in if their life depended on it.
Once again Milwaukee's offense out-hits their opponent but loses the game. The Brewers scored two runs on 11 hits while the Yankees scored 12 runs on 10 hits. The troubling part is this seems to happen against teams the Brewers could face in the playoffs or the World Series. I realize people are laughing at me for saying World Series, but is that not what we are in it for? Did the Brewers not get the pitching they did to make a playoff run? Zack Grienke, Prince Fielder, Shaun Marcum, and the rest of the Brewer's organization are in this for no less than a World Championship. If you want to be the best you must beat the best, and that has yet to be seen.
I know this is a weird time for me to rant about a loss considering it was the New York Yankees who beat the Brewers. I am also aware that the season is long from over, but it's a slippery slope. If changes are not made now then when will they? Milwaukee's road record is the worst in the National League and considering the Brewers are one of three first place teams, it is downright pitiful.
The good news is the Brewers are loaded with talent across the board. I still think when everything comes together, Milwaukee will have one of the best pitching rotations at the end of the year. I also think the offense will keep getting better. The Brewers will be a nightmare for teams to play against towards the end of September and hopefully into October.
W: Garcia (7-6) L: Grienke (7-3)
The Brewers worst lost of the season could not come at a worse time.
Matt Gamel recorded his first RBI in the majors this season with a single that drove in Prince Fielder. Yuniesky Betancourt got the Brewer's only other RBI of the game on a sacrifice double play that scored Corey Hart. This is as far as the highlights go for Milwaukee.
Zack Grienke pitched two innings of horrendous baseball in a tough loss. He gave up seven earned runs on five hits while walking three and striking out nobody. His ERA has jumped to 5.63, worst among team starting pitchers.
Marco Estrada was not much better when he came in to relieve Grienke. In three innings pitched, he gave up three earned runs on three hits while walking three. In fact all five pitchers in the game for the Brewers were bad. The only person to not give up an earned run was LaTroy Hawkins, whose current ERA is a remarkable 0.44.
In a game like this there is no doubt you blame it on the pitching, but let's be honest, the offense could not get a run in if their life depended on it.
Once again Milwaukee's offense out-hits their opponent but loses the game. The Brewers scored two runs on 11 hits while the Yankees scored 12 runs on 10 hits. The troubling part is this seems to happen against teams the Brewers could face in the playoffs or the World Series. I realize people are laughing at me for saying World Series, but is that not what we are in it for? Did the Brewers not get the pitching they did to make a playoff run? Zack Grienke, Prince Fielder, Shaun Marcum, and the rest of the Brewer's organization are in this for no less than a World Championship. If you want to be the best you must beat the best, and that has yet to be seen.
I know this is a weird time for me to rant about a loss considering it was the New York Yankees who beat the Brewers. I am also aware that the season is long from over, but it's a slippery slope. If changes are not made now then when will they? Milwaukee's road record is the worst in the National League and considering the Brewers are one of three first place teams, it is downright pitiful.
The good news is the Brewers are loaded with talent across the board. I still think when everything comes together, Milwaukee will have one of the best pitching rotations at the end of the year. I also think the offense will keep getting better. The Brewers will be a nightmare for teams to play against towards the end of September and hopefully into October.
Brewers All-Star Voting Update
Ryan Braun still leads all of the National League with 3,932,100 votes.
Rickie Weeks is now in the lead at second base with a 79,000 vote lead over the Red's Brandon Phillips.
Prince Fielder is now in second place, moving ahead of Joey Votto with a 70,727 vote lead. He still trails Albert Pujols, but it seems that who ever is in second will be the starter at first base for the All-Star game due to Pujols' injury.
Make sure to keep voting online up until Thursday at midnight EST.
Thanks for the update @BrewerNation!
Rickie Weeks is now in the lead at second base with a 79,000 vote lead over the Red's Brandon Phillips.
Prince Fielder is now in second place, moving ahead of Joey Votto with a 70,727 vote lead. He still trails Albert Pujols, but it seems that who ever is in second will be the starter at first base for the All-Star game due to Pujols' injury.
Make sure to keep voting online up until Thursday at midnight EST.
Thanks for the update @BrewerNation!
Former NC State QB Russell Wilson to play for Wisconsin
Russell Wilson, who started at North Carolina State for three years, will play for the Wisconsin Badgers this fall.
Wilson career numbers are 8,545 passing yards, 76 touchdown passes, 17 rushing touchdowns, 26 interceptions, 682 completions out of 1,180 attempts, and 9,628 total offense yards. His passing yards ranks 12th in ACC history, touchdowns rank 3rd in league history, and his 93 total touchdown scores ranks 2nd in ACC history. In 2010 he earned the Governor's Award as the team's Most Valuable Player and was voted second-team All-ACC.
Wilson, a two sport athlete, was redshirted in 2007 and competed with NC State's baseball team in the spring, without missing any spring football drills. After Wilson graduated, he was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the fourth round of last year's First-Year Player Draft. He played second baseman for their Class A team in Asheville, N.C., where he hit .228 with three home runs and 15 RBIs. He has been placed on the minor league restricted list until he makes his decision whether or not to come back to baseball.
Wilson will attend graduate school while competing for the quarterback position. A no-doubter as the starter this year, Wilson was asked on ESPN's "College Football Live" what assurances he was given by the Badgers.
"I never want to be told that I have the starting job," Wilson said. "I never believe in that. I believe that being the competitor that I am, you have to compete every single day."
Reportedly Wilson was looking into two schools, Auburn and Wisconsin. The most obvious question is why he would choose Wisconsin over the defending National Champions.
"I think that with their coaching staff, the players they have there from their experience, the tradition they have there in terms of their fans, and the players that have played there before. I am truly excited about it. I think it is a great situation for me and I am truly blessed."
When Wilson was asked about why he did not choose Auburn, he could only talk more about the Badgers.
"Auburn is a great place and they have a great tradition there as well. It really came down to a lot of different things, but I am truly blessed to be a Badger and I am excited about the tradition there. I am excited to join the family there. I am excited to meet my teammates and be around them."
This is a blessing for both Russell Wilson and the Wisconsin Badgers. Wilson will be able to showcase his talents on the big stage, as many Wisconsin games will be televised nationally this upcoming season, and he will have the chance to be a part of something special. Wisconsin's Spring Game was a joke after watching the Badgers never score an offensive touchdown the entire game. They need Wilson more than he might need them.
With Wilson's offensive talents, two studs at running back, and an outstanding defense, Wisconsin seems to be the top power house in the Big Ten.
Wilson career numbers are 8,545 passing yards, 76 touchdown passes, 17 rushing touchdowns, 26 interceptions, 682 completions out of 1,180 attempts, and 9,628 total offense yards. His passing yards ranks 12th in ACC history, touchdowns rank 3rd in league history, and his 93 total touchdown scores ranks 2nd in ACC history. In 2010 he earned the Governor's Award as the team's Most Valuable Player and was voted second-team All-ACC.
Wilson, a two sport athlete, was redshirted in 2007 and competed with NC State's baseball team in the spring, without missing any spring football drills. After Wilson graduated, he was drafted by the Colorado Rockies in the fourth round of last year's First-Year Player Draft. He played second baseman for their Class A team in Asheville, N.C., where he hit .228 with three home runs and 15 RBIs. He has been placed on the minor league restricted list until he makes his decision whether or not to come back to baseball.
Wilson will attend graduate school while competing for the quarterback position. A no-doubter as the starter this year, Wilson was asked on ESPN's "College Football Live" what assurances he was given by the Badgers.
"I never want to be told that I have the starting job," Wilson said. "I never believe in that. I believe that being the competitor that I am, you have to compete every single day."
Reportedly Wilson was looking into two schools, Auburn and Wisconsin. The most obvious question is why he would choose Wisconsin over the defending National Champions.
"I think that with their coaching staff, the players they have there from their experience, the tradition they have there in terms of their fans, and the players that have played there before. I am truly excited about it. I think it is a great situation for me and I am truly blessed."
When Wilson was asked about why he did not choose Auburn, he could only talk more about the Badgers.
"Auburn is a great place and they have a great tradition there as well. It really came down to a lot of different things, but I am truly blessed to be a Badger and I am excited about the tradition there. I am excited to join the family there. I am excited to meet my teammates and be around them."
This is a blessing for both Russell Wilson and the Wisconsin Badgers. Wilson will be able to showcase his talents on the big stage, as many Wisconsin games will be televised nationally this upcoming season, and he will have the chance to be a part of something special. Wisconsin's Spring Game was a joke after watching the Badgers never score an offensive touchdown the entire game. They need Wilson more than he might need them.
With Wilson's offensive talents, two studs at running back, and an outstanding defense, Wisconsin seems to be the top power house in the Big Ten.
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Brewers sweep Twins
Brewers 6, Twins 2
W: Narveson (5-5) L: Pavano (5-6)
Milwaukee beat the Minnesota Twins for their first interleague sweep of the season. It was a crucial win considering who they have to play next.
The Brewers improved their Major League-best 29-11 home record and bolstered their lead in the NL Central to three games. This is the first time since July 2007 that the Brewers are ahead by three games in first place.
Jonathan Lucroy started the fifth inning out with a triple, the first of his career. With two outs, Nyjer Morgan hit a single to right field to score Lucroy. After an error on the pickoff attempt, Morgan made his way to second. Ryan Braun then extended his career hit streak to 17 games after sending a two-run home run to center field that put the Brewers up for good.
With two outs in the sixth inning, Yuniesky Betancourt singled to center field. Lucroy hit a hard double to center which scored Betancourt easily. Brewers starting pitcher Chris Narveson helped his own cause with a double down the third base line to score Lucroy.
Prince Fielder recorded his league leading 68th RBI of the season when he singled in Braun.
Narveson pitched outstanding as he gave up two earned runs on five hits in 6 2/3 innings. His seven strike outs is evidence of how well he controlled the game. The sold out Milwaukee crowd gave Narveson a loud, standing ovation as he walked to the dugout after a pitching change. Just more evidence of the electricity in this town right now. Everyone can feel the buzz, but at the same time, everyone knows that it is to early to get too excited. Nonetheless, Milwaukee has a very passionate fan base and they are not afraid to show their team how charged up they are.
The Brewers travel to New York to take on the Yankees Tuesday night in a battle of first place teams. Zack Grienke will start for Milwaukee as they will face their biggest test of the season.
W: Narveson (5-5) L: Pavano (5-6)
Milwaukee beat the Minnesota Twins for their first interleague sweep of the season. It was a crucial win considering who they have to play next.
The Brewers improved their Major League-best 29-11 home record and bolstered their lead in the NL Central to three games. This is the first time since July 2007 that the Brewers are ahead by three games in first place.
Jonathan Lucroy started the fifth inning out with a triple, the first of his career. With two outs, Nyjer Morgan hit a single to right field to score Lucroy. After an error on the pickoff attempt, Morgan made his way to second. Ryan Braun then extended his career hit streak to 17 games after sending a two-run home run to center field that put the Brewers up for good.
With two outs in the sixth inning, Yuniesky Betancourt singled to center field. Lucroy hit a hard double to center which scored Betancourt easily. Brewers starting pitcher Chris Narveson helped his own cause with a double down the third base line to score Lucroy.
Prince Fielder recorded his league leading 68th RBI of the season when he singled in Braun.
Narveson pitched outstanding as he gave up two earned runs on five hits in 6 2/3 innings. His seven strike outs is evidence of how well he controlled the game. The sold out Milwaukee crowd gave Narveson a loud, standing ovation as he walked to the dugout after a pitching change. Just more evidence of the electricity in this town right now. Everyone can feel the buzz, but at the same time, everyone knows that it is to early to get too excited. Nonetheless, Milwaukee has a very passionate fan base and they are not afraid to show their team how charged up they are.
The Brewers travel to New York to take on the Yankees Tuesday night in a battle of first place teams. Zack Grienke will start for Milwaukee as they will face their biggest test of the season.
Brewer bats break out
Brewers 11, Twins 1
W: Gallardo (9-4) L: Liriano (4-7)
It's about time. The offense finally unleashes what it is capable of and the Brewer's inescapably dominate the Twins. Every fan in Milwaukee has been waiting for a night like this. A night where everything is going right and the Brewers finally beat a team by ten runs.
Four home runs made up half of the run support. Carlos Gomez set off a five-run third inning with his two-run homer to left field. Yuniesky Betancourt hit an inside-the-park home run when the ball bounced off the glove of Twins outfielder Delmon Young, who crashed into the wall afterward. Young sprained his left ankle on the play and had to be carted off. Prince Fielder hit a two-run home run, his 21st of the season, along with his league leading 67 RBI's. Fielder is now second all-time in Brewer's franchise with 213 home runs. Robin Yount holds the record with 251 home runs. Corey Hart tacked on to the lead with a solo shot in the ninth inning for good measure.
Yovani Gallardo pitched a great game, giving up only one earned run on six hits in seven innings for his ninth win of the season. He also had six strike outs giving him a total of 94 on the year. Gallardo leads the team in both wins and strikeouts.
The Brewers guaranteed their first interleague series win of the season and will look to sweep the Twins on Sunday afternoon when Chris Narveson takes the mound.
W: Gallardo (9-4) L: Liriano (4-7)
It's about time. The offense finally unleashes what it is capable of and the Brewer's inescapably dominate the Twins. Every fan in Milwaukee has been waiting for a night like this. A night where everything is going right and the Brewers finally beat a team by ten runs.
Four home runs made up half of the run support. Carlos Gomez set off a five-run third inning with his two-run homer to left field. Yuniesky Betancourt hit an inside-the-park home run when the ball bounced off the glove of Twins outfielder Delmon Young, who crashed into the wall afterward. Young sprained his left ankle on the play and had to be carted off. Prince Fielder hit a two-run home run, his 21st of the season, along with his league leading 67 RBI's. Fielder is now second all-time in Brewer's franchise with 213 home runs. Robin Yount holds the record with 251 home runs. Corey Hart tacked on to the lead with a solo shot in the ninth inning for good measure.
Yovani Gallardo pitched a great game, giving up only one earned run on six hits in seven innings for his ninth win of the season. He also had six strike outs giving him a total of 94 on the year. Gallardo leads the team in both wins and strikeouts.
The Brewers guaranteed their first interleague series win of the season and will look to sweep the Twins on Sunday afternoon when Chris Narveson takes the mound.
The fresh Prince of Milwaukee
From: Friday, June 24, 2011
Brewers 4, Twins 3
W: Wolf (6-4) L: Baker (5-5) SV: Axford (20)
Prince Fielder is putting up numbers that Milwaukee fans rarely have the luxury of seeing for themselves. Usually the only chance of seeing this great of play is watching SportsCenter every day, where some player in a Yankee or Red Sox uniform is doing something special. Fortunately for Milwaukee, Fielder and the Brewers might be doing something phenomenal.
The Brewers struck first when Corey Hart doubled home Fielder. Wolf was pitching excellent into the sixth inning with a two-run lead. Then he hit a brick wall and things began to slow down. After walking Michael Cuddyer and giving up a single to Delmon Young, Danny Valencia hit a first-pitch changeup for a three-run homer, giving the Twins their first lead of the game. Wolf's great game looked like it was about to turn into another loss, something he is all to familiar with this season.
With Rickie Weeks and Nyjer Morgan at the corners, Fielder drilled a liner to right field for a two-out, two RBI double. The Milwaukee fans roared with excitement as the Brewers took a 4-3 lead. The legend continues.
"The man has been extraordinary all season long," said Brewers television commentator Bill Schroeder after Prince hit the go ahead double in the seventh inning.
He has been more than extraordinary. Words can not even begin to describe what he has done this season so far. With Braun and him putting up exceptional numbers every night, fans in Milwaukee have the opportunity to see something incredibly special. In fact, when it is all said and done, we might say this tandem had the best season we have seen in a long time. That's the level they are playing at. I realize it is only June and these guys have a long way to go to be written into the history books, but at the pace they are going it is inevitable.
Brewers 4, Twins 3
W: Wolf (6-4) L: Baker (5-5) SV: Axford (20)
Prince Fielder is putting up numbers that Milwaukee fans rarely have the luxury of seeing for themselves. Usually the only chance of seeing this great of play is watching SportsCenter every day, where some player in a Yankee or Red Sox uniform is doing something special. Fortunately for Milwaukee, Fielder and the Brewers might be doing something phenomenal.
The Brewers struck first when Corey Hart doubled home Fielder. Wolf was pitching excellent into the sixth inning with a two-run lead. Then he hit a brick wall and things began to slow down. After walking Michael Cuddyer and giving up a single to Delmon Young, Danny Valencia hit a first-pitch changeup for a three-run homer, giving the Twins their first lead of the game. Wolf's great game looked like it was about to turn into another loss, something he is all to familiar with this season.
With Rickie Weeks and Nyjer Morgan at the corners, Fielder drilled a liner to right field for a two-out, two RBI double. The Milwaukee fans roared with excitement as the Brewers took a 4-3 lead. The legend continues.
"The man has been extraordinary all season long," said Brewers television commentator Bill Schroeder after Prince hit the go ahead double in the seventh inning.
He has been more than extraordinary. Words can not even begin to describe what he has done this season so far. With Braun and him putting up exceptional numbers every night, fans in Milwaukee have the opportunity to see something incredibly special. In fact, when it is all said and done, we might say this tandem had the best season we have seen in a long time. That's the level they are playing at. I realize it is only June and these guys have a long way to go to be written into the history books, but at the pace they are going it is inevitable.
Friday, June 24, 2011
Bucks Draft Picks: Tobias Harris and Jon Leuer
The Bucks selected Tobias Harris, forward out of Tennessee, with the 19th pick in the first round.
The 6'8 freshman power forward averaged 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. He was voted second-team All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman Team. He was a finalist for the Naismith High School Player of the Year Award his senior year of high school.
Strengths: Harris is an athletic, multi-skilled player with a high basketball IQ. He has good passing ability, a great touch at the rim, good ball handling skills, a jump shot with a 30.3% 3-point percentage, and an adequate rebounder. He also plays great defense which is the one thing the Bucks are good at. His ideal position is power forward but he is capable of playing small forward if the pace is slowed down, something the Bucks do not do often. Assuming he plays power forward, Bucks center Andrew Bogut and him will be a nightmare for players inside the paint, both on offense and defense.
Weaknesses: Harris is not a pure shooter so he will have to put the ball down and drive. He will not be able to blow past too many defenders and with his size he will have to work on his mid-range shot. He will have to use his high basketball IQ to determine when to pull-up and take the shot or drive to the basket. There will be struggles rebounding at the power forward position because of his size, but Bogut cleans up the boards nicely so it should not be to much of a problem. The part of his game that he must work the most on is his defense. Head coach Scott Skiles will train him well in this area where he will be capable of becoming a dynamic defender.
Overall Harris is a great pick and will prove to be an asset for the Bucks.
Milwaukee selected Jon Leuer, forward out of Wisconsin, in the second round.
The 6'10 senior led the Badgers with 18.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. He also averaged 1.6 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game with a 37.0% 3-point percentage. He was voted first-team All-Big Ten, an honorable mention AP All-American, and won the Lowe's Senior Class Award.
Strengths: Leuer has an arsenal of offensive skills with an excellent basketball IQ. His improved post-game with a turn-around shot will go great with his already established jump shot. He has good ball handling skills as he will be able to use a couple dribbles to set up a shot. He is a good passer and rebounder which is necessary from a big man. He can get up and down the court with ease for a man of his size, which is important on a fast pace team such as the Bucks.
Weaknesses: Leuer will struggle getting his shot over long defenders as well as driving past guys. He will have to use his skill to get away from defenders and make jump shots. The worst part of his game is defense. His lack of mobility and body strength will make him struggle as a defender unless the right coaching takes place. Good thing for Leuer, Scott Skiles is the best in the business when it comes to defensive coaches.
Overall Leuer was a no-brainer for the Bucks, who struggled offensively all season long. His addition as a great outside shooter will open the floor for the rest of the team to operate. Brandon Jennings will be able to control the pace of the game, while Bogut works the inside paint, knowing that Stephen Jackson, Carlos Delfino, and Jon Leuer can make outside shots all day long.
The 6'8 freshman power forward averaged 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. He was voted second-team All-SEC and SEC All-Freshman Team. He was a finalist for the Naismith High School Player of the Year Award his senior year of high school.
Strengths: Harris is an athletic, multi-skilled player with a high basketball IQ. He has good passing ability, a great touch at the rim, good ball handling skills, a jump shot with a 30.3% 3-point percentage, and an adequate rebounder. He also plays great defense which is the one thing the Bucks are good at. His ideal position is power forward but he is capable of playing small forward if the pace is slowed down, something the Bucks do not do often. Assuming he plays power forward, Bucks center Andrew Bogut and him will be a nightmare for players inside the paint, both on offense and defense.
Weaknesses: Harris is not a pure shooter so he will have to put the ball down and drive. He will not be able to blow past too many defenders and with his size he will have to work on his mid-range shot. He will have to use his high basketball IQ to determine when to pull-up and take the shot or drive to the basket. There will be struggles rebounding at the power forward position because of his size, but Bogut cleans up the boards nicely so it should not be to much of a problem. The part of his game that he must work the most on is his defense. Head coach Scott Skiles will train him well in this area where he will be capable of becoming a dynamic defender.
Overall Harris is a great pick and will prove to be an asset for the Bucks.
Milwaukee selected Jon Leuer, forward out of Wisconsin, in the second round.
The 6'10 senior led the Badgers with 18.3 points and 7.2 rebounds per game. He also averaged 1.6 assists, 0.5 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game with a 37.0% 3-point percentage. He was voted first-team All-Big Ten, an honorable mention AP All-American, and won the Lowe's Senior Class Award.
Strengths: Leuer has an arsenal of offensive skills with an excellent basketball IQ. His improved post-game with a turn-around shot will go great with his already established jump shot. He has good ball handling skills as he will be able to use a couple dribbles to set up a shot. He is a good passer and rebounder which is necessary from a big man. He can get up and down the court with ease for a man of his size, which is important on a fast pace team such as the Bucks.
Weaknesses: Leuer will struggle getting his shot over long defenders as well as driving past guys. He will have to use his skill to get away from defenders and make jump shots. The worst part of his game is defense. His lack of mobility and body strength will make him struggle as a defender unless the right coaching takes place. Good thing for Leuer, Scott Skiles is the best in the business when it comes to defensive coaches.
Overall Leuer was a no-brainer for the Bucks, who struggled offensively all season long. His addition as a great outside shooter will open the floor for the rest of the team to operate. Brandon Jennings will be able to control the pace of the game, while Bogut works the inside paint, knowing that Stephen Jackson, Carlos Delfino, and Jon Leuer can make outside shots all day long.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
NBA Draft: Milwaukee Bucks
The Milwaukee Bucks were very busy on draft day making a proposed trade with Charlotte and Sacramento. The details of the three-way trade are in the blog post directly below this one. Basically the Bucks got rid of Corey Maggette and John Salmons for Stephen Jackson, Shaun Livingston, and Beno Udrih.
At first I was upset by this trade because I felt that Milwaukee general manager John Hammond gave up on the team.
John Salmons had a bad season last year but that does not mean he is a bad player. Corey Maggette is a very good player who was never really given much of a chance in Milwaukee, where he mostly came off the bench.
Stephen Jackson is definitely a scorer but can he do anything else? He has issues when he plays for a team that he does not want to, which he has made very clear that Milwaukee is not a good fit for him. Shaun Livingston has been considered a bust in the NBA since he was selected by the L.A. Clippers 4th overall in 2004. After a horrific knee injury in 2006, he missed the next season and played in only 48 games the next two with three different teams. Last year was his first good year playing in 73 games and averaging 6.6 points per game coming off the bench. Beno Udrih seems to be on the upswing as he started 64 games last season, a career high.
I thought about it, got over my own hysteria, and realized that this might not be such a bad deal after all.
Stephen Jackson (shooting guard) started 67 games last year. He averaged 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. Comparably, John Salmons (shooting guard) started 70 games last year. He averaged 14.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. The numbers are very similar, but Jackson's stats are better in every category. The most important category for a shooting guard is points per game in which Jackson averaged 4.5 more points per game than Salmons did. If all goes according to plan and those numbers are mostly the same next year, the Bucks have just upgraded their shooting guard position. This is particularly important considering the Bucks ranked towards the bottom in almost every offensive category, ranking dead last in points per game and field goal percentage.
Beno Udrih started last season at guard, but the early rumors have stated that he will be coming off the bench in support of Brandon Jennings. Udrih played in 79 games last year and started 64 of them. He averaged 13.7 points (career high), 3.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists (career high), 1.2 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game. Keyon Dooling, who was Brandon Jennings' backup last year, played in 80 games. He averaged 7.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.0 blocks per game. Considering Udrih will be coming off the bench, it is safe to assume that his numbers will not be the same from last year, but bench scoring is a huge asset in the NBA and either way he is a great addition to the team.
I am not exactly sure where Shaun Livingston fits on this team, but I am sure the Bucks will find a way to utilize him coming off the bench. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game in 73 games played.
The Bucks selected Tobias Harris, forward out of Tennessee, with the 19th pick in the first round. The 6'8" freshman averaged 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. He was voted second-team All-SEC and will be a great asset to the Bucks.
With these additions the future looks bright in Milwaukee. The team has been upgraded and primed to make another playoff run in 2011-2012.
At first I was upset by this trade because I felt that Milwaukee general manager John Hammond gave up on the team.
John Salmons had a bad season last year but that does not mean he is a bad player. Corey Maggette is a very good player who was never really given much of a chance in Milwaukee, where he mostly came off the bench.
Stephen Jackson is definitely a scorer but can he do anything else? He has issues when he plays for a team that he does not want to, which he has made very clear that Milwaukee is not a good fit for him. Shaun Livingston has been considered a bust in the NBA since he was selected by the L.A. Clippers 4th overall in 2004. After a horrific knee injury in 2006, he missed the next season and played in only 48 games the next two with three different teams. Last year was his first good year playing in 73 games and averaging 6.6 points per game coming off the bench. Beno Udrih seems to be on the upswing as he started 64 games last season, a career high.
I thought about it, got over my own hysteria, and realized that this might not be such a bad deal after all.
Stephen Jackson (shooting guard) started 67 games last year. He averaged 18.5 points, 4.5 rebounds, 3.6 assists, 1.2 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. Comparably, John Salmons (shooting guard) started 70 games last year. He averaged 14.0 points, 3.6 rebounds, 3.5 assists, 1.0 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game. The numbers are very similar, but Jackson's stats are better in every category. The most important category for a shooting guard is points per game in which Jackson averaged 4.5 more points per game than Salmons did. If all goes according to plan and those numbers are mostly the same next year, the Bucks have just upgraded their shooting guard position. This is particularly important considering the Bucks ranked towards the bottom in almost every offensive category, ranking dead last in points per game and field goal percentage.
Beno Udrih started last season at guard, but the early rumors have stated that he will be coming off the bench in support of Brandon Jennings. Udrih played in 79 games last year and started 64 of them. He averaged 13.7 points (career high), 3.4 rebounds, 4.9 assists (career high), 1.2 steals, and 0.1 blocks per game. Keyon Dooling, who was Brandon Jennings' backup last year, played in 80 games. He averaged 7.1 points, 1.5 rebounds, 3.0 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.0 blocks per game. Considering Udrih will be coming off the bench, it is safe to assume that his numbers will not be the same from last year, but bench scoring is a huge asset in the NBA and either way he is a great addition to the team.
I am not exactly sure where Shaun Livingston fits on this team, but I am sure the Bucks will find a way to utilize him coming off the bench. He averaged 6.6 points, 2.0 rebounds, 2.2 assists, 0.6 steals, and 0.4 blocks per game in 73 games played.
The Bucks selected Tobias Harris, forward out of Tennessee, with the 19th pick in the first round. The 6'8" freshman averaged 15.3 points, 7.3 rebounds, 1.3 assists, 0.7 steals, and 0.9 blocks per game. He was voted second-team All-SEC and will be a great asset to the Bucks.
With these additions the future looks bright in Milwaukee. The team has been upgraded and primed to make another playoff run in 2011-2012.
Bucks Proposed Trade
Milwaukee receives:
- Stephen Jackson (from Charlotte Bobcats)
- Shaun Livingston (from Charlotte Bobcats)
- Beno Udrih (from Sacramento Kings)
- Rights to Charlotte Bobcats 19th overall draft pick (Tobias Harris)
Charlotte receives:
- Corey Maggette (from Milwaukee Bucks)
- Rights to Sacramento Kings 7th overall draft pick (Bismack Biyombo)
Sacramento receives:
- John Salmons (from Milwaukee)
- Rights to Milwaukee Bucks 10th overall draft pick (Jimmer Fredette)
- Stephen Jackson (from Charlotte Bobcats)
- Shaun Livingston (from Charlotte Bobcats)
- Beno Udrih (from Sacramento Kings)
- Rights to Charlotte Bobcats 19th overall draft pick (Tobias Harris)
Charlotte receives:
- Corey Maggette (from Milwaukee Bucks)
- Rights to Sacramento Kings 7th overall draft pick (Bismack Biyombo)
Sacramento receives:
- John Salmons (from Milwaukee)
- Rights to Milwaukee Bucks 10th overall draft pick (Jimmer Fredette)
Wednesday, June 22, 2011
Marcum lasts three, Brewers lose series
Rays 6, Brewers 3 W: Price (8-6) L: Estrada (1-5)
Shaun Marcum threw 54 pitches in three innings before he was removed from the game. The left hip flexor injury he suffered in his last start against Boston had gotten the better of him.
The Brewers got off to an early lead when Ryan Braun hit a ground ball to right field scoring Rickie Weeks. The speedy Corey Hart went from first to third on the play. Braun's single extended his hit-streak to 14 games, a career best. With runners at the corners, Prince Fielder hit into a double play allowing Hart to score. The next inning Marcum gave up a two-run homer to Kelly Shoppach, which tied the game.
Marco Estrada came into the fourth and pitched three innings, giving up one earned run. He would take the loss because of it. Tim Dillard would relieve him in the seventh inning, giving up a three-run homer to Elliot Johnson, blowing the game wide open.
In the ninth inning with the bases loaded, Nyjer Morgan hit a sacrifice fly to score Prince Fielder. Mark Kotsay hit into a double play to end the game.
Milwaukee is 2-4 in interleague play this year and it is not going to get any easier. The streaking Minnesota Twins visit Miller Park this weekend. The Brewers then go on a road trip to play the New York Yankees and the Minnesota Twins. Both teams are red hot so the Brewers must bring their "A" game if they want to compete.
Shaun Marcum threw 54 pitches in three innings before he was removed from the game. The left hip flexor injury he suffered in his last start against Boston had gotten the better of him.
The Brewers got off to an early lead when Ryan Braun hit a ground ball to right field scoring Rickie Weeks. The speedy Corey Hart went from first to third on the play. Braun's single extended his hit-streak to 14 games, a career best. With runners at the corners, Prince Fielder hit into a double play allowing Hart to score. The next inning Marcum gave up a two-run homer to Kelly Shoppach, which tied the game.
Marco Estrada came into the fourth and pitched three innings, giving up one earned run. He would take the loss because of it. Tim Dillard would relieve him in the seventh inning, giving up a three-run homer to Elliot Johnson, blowing the game wide open.
In the ninth inning with the bases loaded, Nyjer Morgan hit a sacrifice fly to score Prince Fielder. Mark Kotsay hit into a double play to end the game.
Milwaukee is 2-4 in interleague play this year and it is not going to get any easier. The streaking Minnesota Twins visit Miller Park this weekend. The Brewers then go on a road trip to play the New York Yankees and the Minnesota Twins. Both teams are red hot so the Brewers must bring their "A" game if they want to compete.
Game Update: Brewers, Rays
Shaun Marcum threw 54 pitches in three innings before he was removed from the game. It is the assumption at this point that the left hip flexor injury he suffered against Boston in his last start has gotten the better of him today. Marco Estrada has come in to pitch the fourth.
Score update: Brewers 2, Rays 2
Ryan Braun extended his hit-streak to 14 games with an RBI single in the first. His current hit-streak is a career-best.
Score update: Brewers 2, Rays 2
Ryan Braun extended his hit-streak to 14 games with an RBI single in the first. His current hit-streak is a career-best.
Zack Attack
Brewers 5, Rays 1
W: Grienke (7-2) L: Hellickson (7-6)
Zack Grienke knew the Brewers needed a win badly and so did his manager. Ron Roenicke apparently talked to Zack and told him that the team needed a big game out of him, Grienke was clearly up to the challenge.
Grienke struck out ten batters over seven innings in which he gave up only one earned run. The ten strike outs makes it the 12th time in his career in which he had double digits K's. Zack made the Rays look foolish all night with none of them ever coming close. His ability to pitch like that will take the Brewers a long way this season.
"Three plus pitches...you never know what to expect," said Johnny Damon before the game. "As a hitter you are pretty much playing a guessing game with him."
Damon went 0 for 4 with two strike outs, but it was his defense that really hurt the Rays. The Brewers had bases loaded in the first inning thanks to three walks. Casey McGehee hit a pop up to shallow left field. Weeks tagged up and got home with ease as Damon never even attempted a throw. His defense would only get worse.
Yuniesky Betancourt hit his fourth home run of the season, first since May 20, to give the Brewers a 2-0 lead in the second inning. This would remain the score until the seventh when Grienke would finally give up a run to B.J. Upton. With the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh, Ryan Braun hit a two-run single to give the Brewers some breathing room.
The next at-bat Johnny Damon's defense would hurt the Rays again, when Prince Fielder singled to left field. Josh Wilson got waved in before he even came close to third base, as Damon scooped the ball and threw a floater that barely got to home plate. Wilson leaped over the catcher and home plate as the ball bounced past him. The pitcher who was backing up home threw the ball to the catcher as Wilson crawled to touch the plate before the tag was applied. A thrilling play that never should have happened if it wasn't for Damon's poor throw.
The Brewers got a much needed overall team win. As for Shaun Marcum pitching Wednesday afternoon, the chances are looking good.
"They didn't trade for me to sit here and watch games," explained Marcum to reporters before the game. "When it's my day to get the ball, I want to go out there and pitch."
W: Grienke (7-2) L: Hellickson (7-6)
Zack Grienke knew the Brewers needed a win badly and so did his manager. Ron Roenicke apparently talked to Zack and told him that the team needed a big game out of him, Grienke was clearly up to the challenge.
Grienke struck out ten batters over seven innings in which he gave up only one earned run. The ten strike outs makes it the 12th time in his career in which he had double digits K's. Zack made the Rays look foolish all night with none of them ever coming close. His ability to pitch like that will take the Brewers a long way this season.
"Three plus pitches...you never know what to expect," said Johnny Damon before the game. "As a hitter you are pretty much playing a guessing game with him."
Damon went 0 for 4 with two strike outs, but it was his defense that really hurt the Rays. The Brewers had bases loaded in the first inning thanks to three walks. Casey McGehee hit a pop up to shallow left field. Weeks tagged up and got home with ease as Damon never even attempted a throw. His defense would only get worse.
Yuniesky Betancourt hit his fourth home run of the season, first since May 20, to give the Brewers a 2-0 lead in the second inning. This would remain the score until the seventh when Grienke would finally give up a run to B.J. Upton. With the bases loaded in the bottom of the seventh, Ryan Braun hit a two-run single to give the Brewers some breathing room.
The next at-bat Johnny Damon's defense would hurt the Rays again, when Prince Fielder singled to left field. Josh Wilson got waved in before he even came close to third base, as Damon scooped the ball and threw a floater that barely got to home plate. Wilson leaped over the catcher and home plate as the ball bounced past him. The pitcher who was backing up home threw the ball to the catcher as Wilson crawled to touch the plate before the tag was applied. A thrilling play that never should have happened if it wasn't for Damon's poor throw.
The Brewers got a much needed overall team win. As for Shaun Marcum pitching Wednesday afternoon, the chances are looking good.
"They didn't trade for me to sit here and watch games," explained Marcum to reporters before the game. "When it's my day to get the ball, I want to go out there and pitch."
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Jungmann is 2011 Howser winner
Brewer's 2011 first round draft pick Taylor Jungmann is the 25th Dick Howser Award winner. The award is given to college baseball's Player of the Year.
Jungmann was picked by the Brewers with the 12th overall pick in the First-Year Player Draft. His 13-3 record and 1.60 ERA tops all starters.
The Howser Trophy is named after Dick Howser, a former Florida State All-American shortstop, Major League shortstop with three teams, and manager for two teams. As manager of the New York Yankees he led the team to the ALCS where they lost three straight games, getting fired shortly after that. He then went on to manage the Kansas City Royals where he had a lot of success. In 1985, Howser guided the Royals to their first and only World Series title, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals in seven games. He died two years later of a brain tumor.
The Brewers are looking forward to hopefully signing a contract with the young pitcher in the upcoming weeks.
Jungmann was picked by the Brewers with the 12th overall pick in the First-Year Player Draft. His 13-3 record and 1.60 ERA tops all starters.
The Howser Trophy is named after Dick Howser, a former Florida State All-American shortstop, Major League shortstop with three teams, and manager for two teams. As manager of the New York Yankees he led the team to the ALCS where they lost three straight games, getting fired shortly after that. He then went on to manage the Kansas City Royals where he had a lot of success. In 1985, Howser guided the Royals to their first and only World Series title, defeating the St. Louis Cardinals in seven games. He died two years later of a brain tumor.
The Brewers are looking forward to hopefully signing a contract with the young pitcher in the upcoming weeks.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Roenicke, Sveum ejected, Brewers nightmares continue
Rays 8, Brewers 4
W: Niemann (2-4) L: Narveson (4-5)
Umpire Bob Davidson can not come to Milwaukee without ejecting someone. Last year he tossed a Milwaukee fan sitting in the front row and tonight he tossed two of the coaches.
Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke got his first ejection as a Brewer. Unfortunately, that did not inspire the Brewers to play any better.
Nyjer Morgan was hit on the left arm by a fastball from Tampa Bay Ray's starting pitcher Jeff Niemann. As he headed for first base, Bob Davidson called him back claiming that Morgan stepped into the pitch. As Nyjer stepped into the home plate umpire's face, Roenicke squeezed in between them defending his batter. Replays showed Morgan attempting to turn away from the ball with no apparent intentions of ever stepping into it. It was obvious that Davidson made the wrong call. Fox Sports Wisconsin commentators Brian Anderson and Bill Schroeder went ballistic and could not believe what they had just witnessed.
"Talk about looking for something that isn't there," said Anderson. "That is just a blatant bad call," chimed in Schroeder.
Roenicke kept his cool for the most part and play continued. With a full count, Morgan swung at ball four as the boo birds came down hard on Davidson. To his credit Nyjer walked back to the dugout clearly holding all of the frustration inside him, the same could not be said about his hitting coach. Dale Sveum screamed and pointed at Davidson from the top of the dugout, which did not last long as he was ejected in seconds. Ron Roenicke came flying out of the bench area and got up in Davidson's face. He said his part and was ejected within minutes.
The fans came to his defense with loud cheers in hopes that the game was going to be turned around. Considering the Rays had a 1-0 lead, it was not farfetched to think the momentum was in favor of the Brewers.
One out with the bases loaded, Kotsay and Betancourt both failed to bring home a run. The Rays got out of the jam and all hope seemed to be lost. The game went down hill fast as Narveson struggled in the seventh inning giving up two more earned runs.
Brewers reliever Mark DiFelice gave up a three-run homer in the eighth, making him the second pitcher to be called up from AAA Nashville in the last week to have an unsettling ERA. He has a 9.00 ERA in 1.0 innings pitched. Casey McGehee and Prince Fielder both had errors. Jonathan Lucroy sent a solo shot to deep center field for his first home-run in June.
"The biggest thing that bothers me is the inconsistency of this ball club," said Roenicke before the game. "Our pitchers and our offense are both so inconsistent. I know that the home runs come and go which will give you a little inconsistency on offense, but the overall inconsistency is our problem."
That makes two of us Mr. Manager.
W: Niemann (2-4) L: Narveson (4-5)
Umpire Bob Davidson can not come to Milwaukee without ejecting someone. Last year he tossed a Milwaukee fan sitting in the front row and tonight he tossed two of the coaches.
Milwaukee Brewers manager Ron Roenicke got his first ejection as a Brewer. Unfortunately, that did not inspire the Brewers to play any better.
Nyjer Morgan was hit on the left arm by a fastball from Tampa Bay Ray's starting pitcher Jeff Niemann. As he headed for first base, Bob Davidson called him back claiming that Morgan stepped into the pitch. As Nyjer stepped into the home plate umpire's face, Roenicke squeezed in between them defending his batter. Replays showed Morgan attempting to turn away from the ball with no apparent intentions of ever stepping into it. It was obvious that Davidson made the wrong call. Fox Sports Wisconsin commentators Brian Anderson and Bill Schroeder went ballistic and could not believe what they had just witnessed.
"Talk about looking for something that isn't there," said Anderson. "That is just a blatant bad call," chimed in Schroeder.
Roenicke kept his cool for the most part and play continued. With a full count, Morgan swung at ball four as the boo birds came down hard on Davidson. To his credit Nyjer walked back to the dugout clearly holding all of the frustration inside him, the same could not be said about his hitting coach. Dale Sveum screamed and pointed at Davidson from the top of the dugout, which did not last long as he was ejected in seconds. Ron Roenicke came flying out of the bench area and got up in Davidson's face. He said his part and was ejected within minutes.
The fans came to his defense with loud cheers in hopes that the game was going to be turned around. Considering the Rays had a 1-0 lead, it was not farfetched to think the momentum was in favor of the Brewers.
One out with the bases loaded, Kotsay and Betancourt both failed to bring home a run. The Rays got out of the jam and all hope seemed to be lost. The game went down hill fast as Narveson struggled in the seventh inning giving up two more earned runs.
Brewers reliever Mark DiFelice gave up a three-run homer in the eighth, making him the second pitcher to be called up from AAA Nashville in the last week to have an unsettling ERA. He has a 9.00 ERA in 1.0 innings pitched. Casey McGehee and Prince Fielder both had errors. Jonathan Lucroy sent a solo shot to deep center field for his first home-run in June.
"The biggest thing that bothers me is the inconsistency of this ball club," said Roenicke before the game. "Our pitchers and our offense are both so inconsistent. I know that the home runs come and go which will give you a little inconsistency on offense, but the overall inconsistency is our problem."
That makes two of us Mr. Manager.
Best franchise in sports
The Green Bay Packers are ESPN The Magazine's number one franchise in their Ultimate Standings.
Last year the Packers ranked ninth in the standings. Winning the Super Bowl, among other factors, propelled them to the top of the rankings. The list consists of 122 teams from the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL.
Fan feedback is the base for the eight major categories that help define what franchise deserves to be number one. Basically every category is based on how fans feel toward the team, players, management and their reactions. The categories include:
Bang for the buck (wins over the last three seasons per fan revenues), fan relations (team organization/players openness and loyalty toward fans), ownership, affordability (price for game day), stadium experience, players, coaching, and title track (championships already won or expected to be won).
The Packer's category rankings (from ESPN The Magazine):
Bang for the Buck: 4th
Fan Relations: 10th
Ownership: 5th
Affordability: 17th
Stadium Experience: 1st
Players: 5th
Coaching: 26th
Title Track: 1st
For more information on the Ultimate Standings go to: http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/teamrankings
Last year the Packers ranked ninth in the standings. Winning the Super Bowl, among other factors, propelled them to the top of the rankings. The list consists of 122 teams from the NFL, MLB, NBA, and NHL.
Fan feedback is the base for the eight major categories that help define what franchise deserves to be number one. Basically every category is based on how fans feel toward the team, players, management and their reactions. The categories include:
Bang for the buck (wins over the last three seasons per fan revenues), fan relations (team organization/players openness and loyalty toward fans), ownership, affordability (price for game day), stadium experience, players, coaching, and title track (championships already won or expected to be won).
The Packer's category rankings (from ESPN The Magazine):
Bang for the Buck: 4th
Fan Relations: 10th
Ownership: 5th
Affordability: 17th
Stadium Experience: 1st
Players: 5th
Coaching: 26th
Title Track: 1st
For more information on the Ultimate Standings go to: http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/teamrankings
Gallardo gets pounded in first, lasts only three
Red Sox 12, Brewers 3
W: Wakefield (4-2) L: Gallardo (8-4)
Who would have guessed in a weekend with former aces Shaun Marcum and Yovani Gallardo starting, Randy Wolf would pitch more innings than both of them combined.
Gallardo had an error and gave up six earned runs in the first inning, four of them before a single out was recorded. He gave up a season high eight earned runs in three innings.
Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia led off the first inning with back-to-back singles. After a wild pitch moved the runners to second and third, Adrian Gonzalez hit a ground ball to the left of first base. Prince Fielder made a good play on it and sent a perfect throw to Gallardo, who simply dropped the ball as he stepped on first. A routine double play (if the wild pitch and error did not occur) turned into runners on the corners with one run in. Kevin Youkilis made Gallardo pay for the mistake, crushing a three-run home run over the green monster in left field. Four runs, zero outs, and Gallardo's pitch count skyrocketing.
Still in the first, bases loaded, the Red Sox got back to the top of their order. Jacoby Ellsbury hit a two-out ground-rule double that plated two more runs. Finally Gallardo got out of the inning after throwing 45 pitches. His day lost and the Brewers on their way to another losing road series.
The Brewer's offense was no match for Tim Wakefield's famous knuckleball as they struggled mightily all day. Nyjer Morgan and Prince Fielder were the only players to really break through. After Casey McGehee hit a two-out double off the green monster in the second inning, Nyjer Morgan hit a home run to right field that barely cleared the wall. Prince Fielder hit a solo shot to right in the seventh inning.
A 2-5 record on the road trip is not what Milwaukee was looking for, especially when the next couple of weeks are only going to get more difficult. The Brewers look to bounce back against the Tampa Bay Rays Monday night at Miller Park.
W: Wakefield (4-2) L: Gallardo (8-4)
Who would have guessed in a weekend with former aces Shaun Marcum and Yovani Gallardo starting, Randy Wolf would pitch more innings than both of them combined.
Gallardo had an error and gave up six earned runs in the first inning, four of them before a single out was recorded. He gave up a season high eight earned runs in three innings.
Jacoby Ellsbury and Dustin Pedroia led off the first inning with back-to-back singles. After a wild pitch moved the runners to second and third, Adrian Gonzalez hit a ground ball to the left of first base. Prince Fielder made a good play on it and sent a perfect throw to Gallardo, who simply dropped the ball as he stepped on first. A routine double play (if the wild pitch and error did not occur) turned into runners on the corners with one run in. Kevin Youkilis made Gallardo pay for the mistake, crushing a three-run home run over the green monster in left field. Four runs, zero outs, and Gallardo's pitch count skyrocketing.
Still in the first, bases loaded, the Red Sox got back to the top of their order. Jacoby Ellsbury hit a two-out ground-rule double that plated two more runs. Finally Gallardo got out of the inning after throwing 45 pitches. His day lost and the Brewers on their way to another losing road series.
The Brewer's offense was no match for Tim Wakefield's famous knuckleball as they struggled mightily all day. Nyjer Morgan and Prince Fielder were the only players to really break through. After Casey McGehee hit a two-out double off the green monster in the second inning, Nyjer Morgan hit a home run to right field that barely cleared the wall. Prince Fielder hit a solo shot to right in the seventh inning.
A 2-5 record on the road trip is not what Milwaukee was looking for, especially when the next couple of weeks are only going to get more difficult. The Brewers look to bounce back against the Tampa Bay Rays Monday night at Miller Park.
Sunday, June 19, 2011
Brewers even series against Red Sox
Brewers 4, Red Sox 2
W: Wolf (5-4) L: Lester (9-3) SV: Axford (19)
Randy Wolf was not completely dominate, but that is still better than most pitchers on a good day. He gave up two earned runs on nine hits, but how he pitched out of trouble against the Red Sox was outstanding.
One of the most underrated pitchers, mainly because his bad outings are horrendous, Wolf does not get nearly enough credit. His 3.15 ERA is second best on the team among starters and his 5-4 record can be justified by a huge lack of run support. In eleven games this season Wolf has given up two earned runs or less, while taking a no decision in four of those games. Don't get me wrong, I still believe he is the fourth best pitcher in the Brewers starting rotation, but he is pitching like an ace as of late.
Wolf was not the only star of the game. Rickie Weeks and Corey Hart led off the game with back-to-back home runs. Rickie Weeks caught a break when Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez dropped a foul ball along the first base line. Weeks then crushed the next pitch over the "green monster" in left field, becoming the first person since 1979 to lead off a game with a home run after his foul ball was dropped. The Brewers are the first team since the 2003 New York Yankees to have two lead off back-to-back home run games in a season.
Casey McGehee continues his hot streak with an RBI single after Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder both walked with two outs. George Kottaras homered for the second time in as many games since being called up from AAA Nashville.
John Axford recorded his 19th save of the season with ease. Yovani Gallardo takes the mound next to help the Brewers take the series.
W: Wolf (5-4) L: Lester (9-3) SV: Axford (19)
Randy Wolf was not completely dominate, but that is still better than most pitchers on a good day. He gave up two earned runs on nine hits, but how he pitched out of trouble against the Red Sox was outstanding.
One of the most underrated pitchers, mainly because his bad outings are horrendous, Wolf does not get nearly enough credit. His 3.15 ERA is second best on the team among starters and his 5-4 record can be justified by a huge lack of run support. In eleven games this season Wolf has given up two earned runs or less, while taking a no decision in four of those games. Don't get me wrong, I still believe he is the fourth best pitcher in the Brewers starting rotation, but he is pitching like an ace as of late.
Wolf was not the only star of the game. Rickie Weeks and Corey Hart led off the game with back-to-back home runs. Rickie Weeks caught a break when Red Sox first baseman Adrian Gonzalez dropped a foul ball along the first base line. Weeks then crushed the next pitch over the "green monster" in left field, becoming the first person since 1979 to lead off a game with a home run after his foul ball was dropped. The Brewers are the first team since the 2003 New York Yankees to have two lead off back-to-back home run games in a season.
Casey McGehee continues his hot streak with an RBI single after Ryan Braun and Prince Fielder both walked with two outs. George Kottaras homered for the second time in as many games since being called up from AAA Nashville.
John Axford recorded his 19th save of the season with ease. Yovani Gallardo takes the mound next to help the Brewers take the series.
Saturday, June 18, 2011
Marcum lasts one inning, Brewers fall
Red Sox 10, Brewers 4
W: Lackey (5-5) L: Estrada (1-4)
Shaun Marcum was done after just one inning in the series opener against the Boston Red Sox. He ended up leaving with a left hip flexor strain after 44 pitches and two earned runs.
"I didn't want to come out after an inning, but we wanted to be smart about it, not do anything stupid," Marcum said. "I didn't want to take a chance of hurting it worse or actually doing something where I'm missing more time."
Things were looking good in the first inning for the Brewers. After Nyjer Morgan hit a single and Prince Fielder hit a ground rule double, heating up third baseman Casey McGehee crushed a two-out line drive into center field plating two runs. Unfortunately in the bottom of the first, Marcum's disastrous inning consisted of giving up a solo shot to Jacoby Ellsbury and an RBI double to David Ortiz to tie the game.
"They did a good job of working me, working the count, getting pitches, and when they got pitches, they hit them," said Marcum. "Ellsbury did a good job staying back hitting that ball, and we threw everything we could to Ortiz and he finally got a pitch. They put some good at-bats together. You have to give those guys credit."
The Brewers came back swinging in the third. After leading off with four straight singles, bases were loaded with one run already in. Casey McGehee hit a hard driven shot in between first and second base where Dustin Pedroia made an outstanding diving stop to turn a double play. It was McGehee's third RBI of the game for another two-run lead, but the rally was done and so were the Brewers.
Marco Estrada pitched four innings allowing only an Adrian Gonzalez home-run. He was relieved in the sixth by Daniel Ray Herrera, who lasted one inning after he allowed three earned runs. Pitching for the second consecutive day after being called up, Herrera has a 21.60 ERA in 1.2 innings pitched.
Once again the Brewers can not catch a break on the road. If Marcum does not get injured and Pedroia does not make that play in the third inning, we are looking at an entirely different game. Unfortunately, this is baseball and none of that matters. It is what it is and now it's time to move on to the next one.
W: Lackey (5-5) L: Estrada (1-4)
Shaun Marcum was done after just one inning in the series opener against the Boston Red Sox. He ended up leaving with a left hip flexor strain after 44 pitches and two earned runs.
"I didn't want to come out after an inning, but we wanted to be smart about it, not do anything stupid," Marcum said. "I didn't want to take a chance of hurting it worse or actually doing something where I'm missing more time."
Things were looking good in the first inning for the Brewers. After Nyjer Morgan hit a single and Prince Fielder hit a ground rule double, heating up third baseman Casey McGehee crushed a two-out line drive into center field plating two runs. Unfortunately in the bottom of the first, Marcum's disastrous inning consisted of giving up a solo shot to Jacoby Ellsbury and an RBI double to David Ortiz to tie the game.
"They did a good job of working me, working the count, getting pitches, and when they got pitches, they hit them," said Marcum. "Ellsbury did a good job staying back hitting that ball, and we threw everything we could to Ortiz and he finally got a pitch. They put some good at-bats together. You have to give those guys credit."
The Brewers came back swinging in the third. After leading off with four straight singles, bases were loaded with one run already in. Casey McGehee hit a hard driven shot in between first and second base where Dustin Pedroia made an outstanding diving stop to turn a double play. It was McGehee's third RBI of the game for another two-run lead, but the rally was done and so were the Brewers.
Marco Estrada pitched four innings allowing only an Adrian Gonzalez home-run. He was relieved in the sixth by Daniel Ray Herrera, who lasted one inning after he allowed three earned runs. Pitching for the second consecutive day after being called up, Herrera has a 21.60 ERA in 1.2 innings pitched.
Once again the Brewers can not catch a break on the road. If Marcum does not get injured and Pedroia does not make that play in the third inning, we are looking at an entirely different game. Unfortunately, this is baseball and none of that matters. It is what it is and now it's time to move on to the next one.
It has a nice ring to it
From: Friday, June 17, 2011
Super Bowl champs get their rings.
The Green Bay Packers waited a long time for this moment, to wear the rings they worked so hard to get. For some the wait was longer than others.
"I feel like it's my right to wear this ring," Woodson said. "I feel like I worked very hard playing this game. I feel like every time I go out on that field, I leave it all out there on the field. That's the way I've always played this game. I feel like I deserve to win a championship. I feel like it's my rightful place in history to be a Super Bowl champion."
“It can’t get any better than this. I was amazed. It was more than I expected. This is what me and Wood dreamed up,” Driver said, referring to the ring. “I haven’t reached my final milestones, yet."
The Packers received their rings in a private ceremony that was off limits to the public and media. Every person associated with the organization was invited, no one else, exactly the way it should be. It was a red carpet affair in which the stars came out. Very different from when the first Super Bowl champs got their rings. After Green Bay won Super Bowl I, there was no ring ceremony or star-studded event. The players received their rings in the mail and that was that. Of course one of Lombardi's many famous quotes was, "...act like you've been there before." So it comes to no surprise that there was no extravagant celebration after winning the first super bowl.
As for the modern day Packers, they are happy to be a part of the great history of this celebrated franchise. Their names will be printed in the history books for ever. Fifty years from now current generations will be telling their children about the great Aaron Rodgers and Charles Woodson. These Packers would like to have one more thing in common with those legendary players. Repeat.
“It’s a beautiful ring. They couldn’t have made it any more spectacular. It’s the most incredible ring I’ve seen,” Woodson said. “We’re going to start preparing for two.”
Super Bowl champs get their rings.
The Green Bay Packers waited a long time for this moment, to wear the rings they worked so hard to get. For some the wait was longer than others.
"I feel like it's my right to wear this ring," Woodson said. "I feel like I worked very hard playing this game. I feel like every time I go out on that field, I leave it all out there on the field. That's the way I've always played this game. I feel like I deserve to win a championship. I feel like it's my rightful place in history to be a Super Bowl champion."
“It can’t get any better than this. I was amazed. It was more than I expected. This is what me and Wood dreamed up,” Driver said, referring to the ring. “I haven’t reached my final milestones, yet."
The Packers received their rings in a private ceremony that was off limits to the public and media. Every person associated with the organization was invited, no one else, exactly the way it should be. It was a red carpet affair in which the stars came out. Very different from when the first Super Bowl champs got their rings. After Green Bay won Super Bowl I, there was no ring ceremony or star-studded event. The players received their rings in the mail and that was that. Of course one of Lombardi's many famous quotes was, "...act like you've been there before." So it comes to no surprise that there was no extravagant celebration after winning the first super bowl.
As for the modern day Packers, they are happy to be a part of the great history of this celebrated franchise. Their names will be printed in the history books for ever. Fifty years from now current generations will be telling their children about the great Aaron Rodgers and Charles Woodson. These Packers would like to have one more thing in common with those legendary players. Repeat.
“It’s a beautiful ring. They couldn’t have made it any more spectacular. It’s the most incredible ring I’ve seen,” Woodson said. “We’re going to start preparing for two.”
Grienke win streak ends
From: Thursday, June 16, 2011
Cubs 12, Brewers 7
Zack Greinke did not pitch great. He gave up a season high six earned runs and never really had any control over his pitches, despite striking out ten (his average per game). You can't really blame him for the loss though, considering how bad the rest of the team played. That is pretty much how the Brewers game went after losing the series to another sub-.500 team.
Ryan Braun hit a two run home run which gave fans hope that a victory was in sight, especially with Greinke pitching. George Kottaras got the nod one day after being called up from AAA Nashville. He had a passed ball, wild pitch that could have easily been a passed ball, and a two run home run to show for it. Rickie Weeks had a terrible error that went for a run and two blunders on the base paths. If I had not seen him play before I would question whether or not he had any business running extra bases. After attempting to stretch a single into a double after the Brewers were already down runs, Fukudome threw him out with ease. The next inning the Brewers were in an even bigger hole and with two outs Weeks singled again. Of course he had to test the arm of Fukudome once more (the best arm on the Cubs), which resulted in getting thrown out again. Weeks got up in disbelief. He was the only one as cameras showed several Cub players smiling and shaking their heads as they jogged off the field. "I talked to Rickie," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "I like for these guys to be aggressive, but I just told him when we get down in runs or late in the ballgame, that's a time we need to make sure what we're doing."
At least surprise call up Daniel Ray Herrera, who arrived from Nashville just hours before game time for team optioned Zach Braddock, got to get some work in during the game. Oh wait, that's right, he got into the game trailing 6-5 and runners in scoring position. Of course he had to give up a three run homer to make things interesting.
As a fan of the Brewers I saw this coming. Milwaukee swept St. Louis over the weekend just to lose three out of four to a team that is ten games back of them. When the going is good expect something bad to happen real soon. That is just the game of baseball. It is a roller coaster ride to the sweet/bitter end. I guess the good news is the Cardinals are now on a six game losing streak, therefore keeping the Brewers in first place by themselves. Now all we have to do is keep it that way until October.
Cubs 12, Brewers 7
Zack Greinke did not pitch great. He gave up a season high six earned runs and never really had any control over his pitches, despite striking out ten (his average per game). You can't really blame him for the loss though, considering how bad the rest of the team played. That is pretty much how the Brewers game went after losing the series to another sub-.500 team.
Ryan Braun hit a two run home run which gave fans hope that a victory was in sight, especially with Greinke pitching. George Kottaras got the nod one day after being called up from AAA Nashville. He had a passed ball, wild pitch that could have easily been a passed ball, and a two run home run to show for it. Rickie Weeks had a terrible error that went for a run and two blunders on the base paths. If I had not seen him play before I would question whether or not he had any business running extra bases. After attempting to stretch a single into a double after the Brewers were already down runs, Fukudome threw him out with ease. The next inning the Brewers were in an even bigger hole and with two outs Weeks singled again. Of course he had to test the arm of Fukudome once more (the best arm on the Cubs), which resulted in getting thrown out again. Weeks got up in disbelief. He was the only one as cameras showed several Cub players smiling and shaking their heads as they jogged off the field. "I talked to Rickie," Brewers manager Ron Roenicke said. "I like for these guys to be aggressive, but I just told him when we get down in runs or late in the ballgame, that's a time we need to make sure what we're doing."
At least surprise call up Daniel Ray Herrera, who arrived from Nashville just hours before game time for team optioned Zach Braddock, got to get some work in during the game. Oh wait, that's right, he got into the game trailing 6-5 and runners in scoring position. Of course he had to give up a three run homer to make things interesting.
As a fan of the Brewers I saw this coming. Milwaukee swept St. Louis over the weekend just to lose three out of four to a team that is ten games back of them. When the going is good expect something bad to happen real soon. That is just the game of baseball. It is a roller coaster ride to the sweet/bitter end. I guess the good news is the Cardinals are now on a six game losing streak, therefore keeping the Brewers in first place by themselves. Now all we have to do is keep it that way until October.
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