...Chicago general manager John Paxson came up and grabbed Pritchard's arm, telling him he wanted to talk to Pritchard before he left. As I continued my interview, with Paxson waiting a few feet away, I asked Pritchard what the nature was of his earlier talks with Seattle and Dallas.
"I can't comment on that, you know that,'' Pritchard said with a smile.
After more questions, Paxson again approached and said he would catch Pritchard later. I told them I was done, and the two walked to the balcony of the arena and had a discussion. I didn't stay to see how long they talked, but it lasted at least several minutes.
The point, of course, is that a lot of teams want to talk to Portland, and Pritchard is listening.
"We are going to prepare like we have done in the past, like we are going to get multiple picks,'' Pritchard said. "Then we are going to try and stimulate some interest with our four second round picks. We can do a lot of things with them, there are a lot of options.''
Full story
I assume the talk is about power forward Zach Randolph. He now becomes expendable since Portland has won the first pick of the draft.
Being a die hard Cardinal fan, I hope Paxson works out a deal to get Randolph! To me he is the missing piece to us being a real contender.
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Spurs reach fourth NBA Finals since '99
SAN ANTONIO (AP) -- Tim Duncan headed to the bench for a well-deserved break. Only nine minutes into Game 5 of the Western Conference finals, he already had the San Antonio Spurs well on their way to another NBA finals berth.
"Good job," coach Gregg Popovich said blandly, not even making eye contact.
Duncan nodded slightly and took his seat.
The Spurs aren't flashy and don't brag. They just win, especially in odd-numbered years, and the display they put on at the start of their 109-84 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night should serve as a warning to Detroit and Cleveland what one of them will be facing when the championship round begins next week.
Full story
Tim Duncan has had an amazing run.
"Good job," coach Gregg Popovich said blandly, not even making eye contact.
Duncan nodded slightly and took his seat.
The Spurs aren't flashy and don't brag. They just win, especially in odd-numbered years, and the display they put on at the start of their 109-84 victory over the Utah Jazz on Wednesday night should serve as a warning to Detroit and Cleveland what one of them will be facing when the championship round begins next week.
Full story
Tim Duncan has had an amazing run.
Wednesday, May 30, 2007
Kobe tells Lakers he wants out
"I would like to be traded, yeah," Bryant told ESPN radio. "Tough as it is to come to that conclusion there's no other alternative. It's rough man, but I don't see how you can rebuild that trust. I just don't know how you can move forward in that type of situation."
Bryant, who helped the Lakers win three consecutive NBA championships, has four years left on the seven-year, $136.4 million contract he signed July 15, 2004. That was a day after Shaquille O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat.
Bryant became infuriated Tuesday when a Los Angeles Times columnist quoted what he called a Lakers insider as saying it was Bryant's insistence on getting away from O'Neal that prompted the trade to Miami.
Bryant, the NBA's leading scorer the past two seasons, said he spoke with Phil Jackson on Tuesday, and the coach told him he was being let go because the Lakers were committed to reducing payroll and rebuilding long term.
Full story
Bryant, who helped the Lakers win three consecutive NBA championships, has four years left on the seven-year, $136.4 million contract he signed July 15, 2004. That was a day after Shaquille O'Neal was traded to the Miami Heat.
Bryant became infuriated Tuesday when a Los Angeles Times columnist quoted what he called a Lakers insider as saying it was Bryant's insistence on getting away from O'Neal that prompted the trade to Miami.
Bryant, the NBA's leading scorer the past two seasons, said he spoke with Phil Jackson on Tuesday, and the coach told him he was being let go because the Lakers were committed to reducing payroll and rebuilding long term.
Full story
Gordon’s fate hanging over Bulls
Although the off-season speculation about the Chicago Bulls will focus on big men and post players such as Zach Randolph (Portland Trailblazers), Jermaine O'Neal (Indiana Pacers), Amare Stoudemire (Phoenix Suns) and Kevin Garnett (Minnesota Timberwolves), there still is that big-guard issue hanging over the team and the fate of Ben Gordon.
In his postseason wrap-up, GM John Paxson talked about size in the backcourt and uncertainty about contract extensions. He seemed to be referring to Gordon, who views himself as a starter and was the Bulls' leading scorer. But his size deficit often compromised the backcourt. Hinrich had to defend the bigger shooting guards, which probably affected his play.
In his postseason wrap-up, GM John Paxson talked about size in the backcourt and uncertainty about contract extensions. He seemed to be referring to Gordon, who views himself as a starter and was the Bulls' leading scorer. But his size deficit often compromised the backcourt. Hinrich had to defend the bigger shooting guards, which probably affected his play.
Molina on DL with fractured left wrist
DENVER -- The Cardinals confirmed on Wednesday morning that catcher Yadier Molina has sustained a fractured left wrist and will be out approximately four to six weeks. Molina will be placed on the disabled list and the club will purchase the contract of catcher Brian Esposito from Triple-A Memphis to take his place on the active roster.
Molina, 24, was struck by a foul tip in the third inning of Tuesday night's game against Colorado. He remained in the game into the fourth, but when it became obvious that he was in intense pain, pitcher Braden Looper called the training staff out to the mound and Molina was removed.
Molina has a non-displaced fracture in his wrist. The joint will be placed in a splint and immobilized. The injury occurred in a similar area to one he suffered in 2005, when he was struck on his left hand by a pitch while he was batting.
Complete story
Molina, 24, was struck by a foul tip in the third inning of Tuesday night's game against Colorado. He remained in the game into the fourth, but when it became obvious that he was in intense pain, pitcher Braden Looper called the training staff out to the mound and Molina was removed.
Molina has a non-displaced fracture in his wrist. The joint will be placed in a splint and immobilized. The injury occurred in a similar area to one he suffered in 2005, when he was struck on his left hand by a pitch while he was batting.
Complete story
Make it three in a row
Going into Tuesdays game with Colorado, the Redbirds were 2-11 in their last 13 road games. After their game with the Rockies make it 2-12 with a 3 game losing streak. And to make matters worse, Molina was taken out of the game with an injury and Speizio was pulled because of illness. The Cardinals lost to Colorado 8-3.
Rockie pitcher Rodrigo Lopez was on the mound for the Rockies was pitching his first game since coming off of injured reserve, and the Cardinal batters and this blogger wished he had stayed on injured reserve for a few more days! He pitched 6 innings giving up just 6 hits and 3 runs. He had 7 strike outs that included 5 in the first 9 outs of the game for St Louis.
Cardinal ace Braden Looper was his own worse enemy. He walked 5 batters, including 3 in a row to start the 4th inning, then catcher Yorvit Torrealba hit his first home run of the year, a grand slam to left center field to break a 1-1 tie and put the game out of reach.
Scott Rolen was the only bright spot for the Cardinals in the sense he had 3 hits including his 3rd home run of the year in the fifth inning. A one run shot. Jim Edmonds hit his 4th of the year in the 7th. Another one run home run.
Brad Hawpe hit his 7th home run in the 7th inning. A two out two run shot.
WP Rodrigo Lopez 2-0
LP Braden Looper 6-4 ERA 3.65
Rockie pitcher Rodrigo Lopez was on the mound for the Rockies was pitching his first game since coming off of injured reserve, and the Cardinal batters and this blogger wished he had stayed on injured reserve for a few more days! He pitched 6 innings giving up just 6 hits and 3 runs. He had 7 strike outs that included 5 in the first 9 outs of the game for St Louis.
Cardinal ace Braden Looper was his own worse enemy. He walked 5 batters, including 3 in a row to start the 4th inning, then catcher Yorvit Torrealba hit his first home run of the year, a grand slam to left center field to break a 1-1 tie and put the game out of reach.
Scott Rolen was the only bright spot for the Cardinals in the sense he had 3 hits including his 3rd home run of the year in the fifth inning. A one run shot. Jim Edmonds hit his 4th of the year in the 7th. Another one run home run.
Brad Hawpe hit his 7th home run in the 7th inning. A two out two run shot.
WP Rodrigo Lopez 2-0
LP Braden Looper 6-4 ERA 3.65
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
Death of Patriots' Hill ruled accidental drowning
NEW ORLEANS (AP) -- The death of New England Patriots defensive end Marquise Hill, who fell off a jet ski in Lake Pontchartrain, was ruled an accidental drowning on Tuesday.
An autopsy found no signs of drug or alcohol in Hill's body, although more tests are planned and will take two weeks to complete, said Orleans Parish coroner Dr. Frank Minyard.
Minyard said Hill might have suffered a mild concussion when he fell off the water craft.
"He might of hit the right side of his face above the eye when he fell off the craft," Minyard said. "He had a pretty nasty bruise there."
There was a slight amount of blood in the brain, which could indicate a concussion, Minyard said.
Complete Story
Dwyane Wade's wife gives birth to baby boy
Heat guard Dwyane Wade became a father for the second time Tuesday night when his wife, Siohvaughn, delivered their second son, Zion Malachi Airamis Wade.
Zion, born in Chicago, weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces and measured 21 inches.
Zion, born in Chicago, weighed 6 pounds, 11 ounces and measured 21 inches.
Cards lose again
Going into yesterdays game against the Colorado Rockies, I knew there was going to be trouble. Four of our regulars would not play. St Louis was 2-10 in the last 12 road games. Colorado was playing inspired ball by winning their last 5 games in a row. Add to the fact that Kip Wells was pitching, all of this put together was a recipe for disaster. And it was a disaster.
Led by the strong pitching of Jeff Francis, Colorado defeated St Louis 6-2 in a Matinee game on Memorial Day.
So Taguchi hit his first home run of the season in the 8th inning off of Francis.
Kip Wells, pitched 6 and 1/3 innings giving up 11 hits and 6 runs. He gave up two home runs. Holliday (9, 1st inning off Wells, 0 on, 2 out), Hawpe (6, 7th inning off Wells, 1 on, 1 out).
WP Jeff Francis 4-4 7 2/3 innings, 5 hits 2 runs.
LP Kip Wells 2-9.
Led by the strong pitching of Jeff Francis, Colorado defeated St Louis 6-2 in a Matinee game on Memorial Day.
So Taguchi hit his first home run of the season in the 8th inning off of Francis.
Kip Wells, pitched 6 and 1/3 innings giving up 11 hits and 6 runs. He gave up two home runs. Holliday (9, 1st inning off Wells, 0 on, 2 out), Hawpe (6, 7th inning off Wells, 1 on, 1 out).
WP Jeff Francis 4-4 7 2/3 innings, 5 hits 2 runs.
LP Kip Wells 2-9.
Kobe wants to play for Bulls?
It's my understanding Kobe recently informed Lakers ownership he'd sanction a trade to one specific team and no other. My source is oblivious to its identity. Logic dictates that team is the Bulls, because there's no way the Lakers would deal him to the Clippers.
That quote was by Peter Vescey of the NY Post. So, the story is gaining steam.
I will keep you posted if there is any further information to share.
That quote was by Peter Vescey of the NY Post. So, the story is gaining steam.
I will keep you posted if there is any further information to share.
Monday, May 28, 2007
Cardinals lose series to Washington
After a sweep of the Pittsburgh Pirates, the St Louis Cardinals got back to their losing ways by losing 2 out 3 to Washington. That included a 7-2 loss on Sunday.
The Cardinals missed a golden opportunity on Sunday because Adam Wainwright had one of his best starts of the year, going seven innings and allowing just two runs on seven hits. He didn't walk a batter and struck out six.
WP Saul Rivera 1-1
LP Adam Wainwright 4-4 and now has an ERA of 5.59
The Cardinals missed a golden opportunity on Sunday because Adam Wainwright had one of his best starts of the year, going seven innings and allowing just two runs on seven hits. He didn't walk a batter and struck out six.
WP Saul Rivera 1-1
LP Adam Wainwright 4-4 and now has an ERA of 5.59
Kobe a future Bull?
Ric Bucher on ESPN hinted that Kobe Bryant wants out of LA. He said Kobe is publicly pining for a return of Jerry West. If Jerry is not going to be brought back appearently kobe is not happy with the process going on in Los Angeles so therefore he wants to be traded. Bucher mentioned that Chicago is a likely team where Kobe could go to. Reason being is young assets and trading pieces.
How do I feel about the possible trade? As long as we do not gut out team how can I say no? If we get to keep Wallace, Thomas, and Deng, then add Kobe, that is an instant contender in the east, if not the entire NBA.
You have to realisticly consider doing such a trade. Kobe would be the tall guard we need. He plays both ends of the floor and his practice habits fits in with the way the team is ran. He is the go to guy we need when our jump shots are not falling.
Now, do I think this will happen? No. I would be very surprised if Kobe wound up in Chicago next season.
What are your thoughts?
How do I feel about the possible trade? As long as we do not gut out team how can I say no? If we get to keep Wallace, Thomas, and Deng, then add Kobe, that is an instant contender in the east, if not the entire NBA.
You have to realisticly consider doing such a trade. Kobe would be the tall guard we need. He plays both ends of the floor and his practice habits fits in with the way the team is ran. He is the go to guy we need when our jump shots are not falling.
Now, do I think this will happen? No. I would be very surprised if Kobe wound up in Chicago next season.
What are your thoughts?
Thursday, May 24, 2007
NBA lottery results
1. Portland
2. Seattle
3. Atlanta
4. Memphis
5. Boston
6. Milwaukee
7. Minnesota
8. Charlotte
9. New York(Chicago)
10. Sacramento
11. Atlanta (via IND)
12. Philadelphia
13. New Orleans
14. L.A. Clippers
2. Seattle
3. Atlanta
4. Memphis
5. Boston
6. Milwaukee
7. Minnesota
8. Charlotte
9. New York(Chicago)
10. Sacramento
11. Atlanta (via IND)
12. Philadelphia
13. New Orleans
14. L.A. Clippers
Cardinals make it two in a row
Going into last nights game against the Pittsburgh Pirates, the Cardinals were a struggling team. Their pitching staff had a combined 4.65 ERA, while their hitters were last in home runs and stolen bases. Add to that the fact that the team had just 5 total home runs for the month of May and going to the mound was Kip Wells. Wells had lost 7 games in a row, allowing 42 runs in those 7 games! Pittsburgh was starting Ian Snell. He had pitched very well against the Redbirds earlier in the season! So, it didn't look promising for St. Louis. However, that is why they play the games and not go by statistics only!
Kip Wells pitched 7 strong innings last night, allowing only 5 hits and 2 runs(both runs should not have happened had it not been for a bad play by Duncan and an error by the second baseman)as St Louis defeated the Pirates 5-3.
It had been 24 games since St Louis had hit two or more home runs in a game. Last night they got three! Eckstein (1, 1st inning off Snell, 0 on, 0 out), Edmonds (2, 2nd inning off Snell, 0 on, 0 out), Duncan (9, 5th inning off Snell, 1 on, 2 out).
The game last night was one of the few times this season where the team had both pitching and hitting work together to secure the victory. Fielding could have been better.
WP Wells 2-8. Isringhausen recorded save number 11.
LP Snell 4-3. He pitched 6 innings giving up 7 hits and 4 runs. Three of the hits were home runs.
Kip Wells pitched 7 strong innings last night, allowing only 5 hits and 2 runs(both runs should not have happened had it not been for a bad play by Duncan and an error by the second baseman)as St Louis defeated the Pirates 5-3.
It had been 24 games since St Louis had hit two or more home runs in a game. Last night they got three! Eckstein (1, 1st inning off Snell, 0 on, 0 out), Edmonds (2, 2nd inning off Snell, 0 on, 0 out), Duncan (9, 5th inning off Snell, 1 on, 2 out).
The game last night was one of the few times this season where the team had both pitching and hitting work together to secure the victory. Fielding could have been better.
WP Wells 2-8. Isringhausen recorded save number 11.
LP Snell 4-3. He pitched 6 innings giving up 7 hits and 4 runs. Three of the hits were home runs.
Sunday, May 20, 2007
Cardinals lose two more
Inter-league play started on Friday and St. Louis was scheduled to play Detroit. They lost the first two games. Below is a recap of the games.
Game one.
Braden Looper managed to pitch just 4 innings. That should give you a hint as to how the game went. Detroit slammed St. Louis 14-4. Looper allowed 9 hits on 7 runs that included 2 home runs, one to Sheffield his 7th of the year. The other was to Ordonez his 9th.
Was there any bright spots for the Redbirds? : Pujols was 4-4 with two rbi's and scored 1 run. He also got his 7th home run of the season.
WP Andrew Miller 1-0. He pitched 6 innings allowing only 4 hits and no runs.
LP Braden Looper 5-3.
Game two.
Well we have some more good news and bad news. Good news is St. Louis got 7 runs as their bats came alive! Bad news is yet another Cardinal pitcher struggled! Anthony Reyes could only go 5 2/3 innings. He gave up 9 hits on 7 runs. One of the runs was a home run by Rodriguez, his 4th of the year.
The Cardinals pounded out 15 hits and scored 7 runs, but that was not enough to get the win. Spiezio had 4 hits while Eckstein had 3.
WP Nate Robertson 4-3.Todd Jones recorded save #14.
LP Anthony Reyes 0-7. He now has an era of 5.84.
Game one.
Braden Looper managed to pitch just 4 innings. That should give you a hint as to how the game went. Detroit slammed St. Louis 14-4. Looper allowed 9 hits on 7 runs that included 2 home runs, one to Sheffield his 7th of the year. The other was to Ordonez his 9th.
Was there any bright spots for the Redbirds? : Pujols was 4-4 with two rbi's and scored 1 run. He also got his 7th home run of the season.
WP Andrew Miller 1-0. He pitched 6 innings allowing only 4 hits and no runs.
LP Braden Looper 5-3.
Game two.
Well we have some more good news and bad news. Good news is St. Louis got 7 runs as their bats came alive! Bad news is yet another Cardinal pitcher struggled! Anthony Reyes could only go 5 2/3 innings. He gave up 9 hits on 7 runs. One of the runs was a home run by Rodriguez, his 4th of the year.
The Cardinals pounded out 15 hits and scored 7 runs, but that was not enough to get the win. Spiezio had 4 hits while Eckstein had 3.
WP Nate Robertson 4-3.Todd Jones recorded save #14.
LP Anthony Reyes 0-7. He now has an era of 5.84.
Friday, May 18, 2007
Edmonds: Cardinals need to win
As players, we don't have the luxury of looking back. We play so many games over the course of a season that you don't have time to look back. The focus remains on the task for that day. Then you try and go out and do your job.
The fact is that we need to start winning some games. We are not off to a great start. We have started off pretty slow and we have to figure out ways to win.
This game is all about winning. Any way that you can find a way to win a game, that's the key. Right now, all we're focused on is trying to do that. It doesn't matter how we do it. Winning games is all that matters.
Bulls season comes to an end
The weaknesses of the young Chicago Bulls came to the forefront last night and they must be addressed in the off season. For one thing, we are a jump shooting team. When we are on, we deserve to be in the top 10 in the league as far as teams are concerned. However, when we are off in shooting, we are easy to defend. Last night it showed itself big time.
The Chicago Bulls shot 37% from the field in front of the home town fans. We shot 28% in threes and 69% in free throws. You can't win playoff games shooting that way. Granted some of this was because of the Pistons defense; however, some of it was not. We had open shots at times and we could not connect when we needed to. Add to the fact that the Bulls do not have a legitimate low post scorer, this makes it easier for the other team to defend the jump shooting Bulls.
Kirk Hinrich was 3-13 that included 0-3 in threes. He did add 11 assists, but when your point guard cannot shoot, your team will likely lose.
Detroit has been there and done that. They didn't panic when they were down by 5 at halftime. They came out in the 3rd quarter and outscored the Bulls 31-21 and continued doing the same in the 4th quarter. They added 5 more points.
Ben Wallace playing with a bad back, was ineffective. He scored 6 points and had 7 rebounds. We can't use that as excuse. Andres Nocioni was not 100% as well. Again, this is the playoffs. Miami played us with players hurt. So, it goes both ways.
P.J. Brown was the only real bright spot for the Bulls. He scored 20 points, all of them in the first half. Too bad his contract has ended. The Bulls could use him next year if the price is right.
The Chicago Bulls shot 37% from the field in front of the home town fans. We shot 28% in threes and 69% in free throws. You can't win playoff games shooting that way. Granted some of this was because of the Pistons defense; however, some of it was not. We had open shots at times and we could not connect when we needed to. Add to the fact that the Bulls do not have a legitimate low post scorer, this makes it easier for the other team to defend the jump shooting Bulls.
Kirk Hinrich was 3-13 that included 0-3 in threes. He did add 11 assists, but when your point guard cannot shoot, your team will likely lose.
Detroit has been there and done that. They didn't panic when they were down by 5 at halftime. They came out in the 3rd quarter and outscored the Bulls 31-21 and continued doing the same in the 4th quarter. They added 5 more points.
Ben Wallace playing with a bad back, was ineffective. He scored 6 points and had 7 rebounds. We can't use that as excuse. Andres Nocioni was not 100% as well. Again, this is the playoffs. Miami played us with players hurt. So, it goes both ways.
P.J. Brown was the only real bright spot for the Bulls. He scored 20 points, all of them in the first half. Too bad his contract has ended. The Bulls could use him next year if the price is right.
Thursday, May 17, 2007
Wainwright's elbow improving
LOS ANGELES -- Adam Wainwright reiterated on Wednesday that he battled elbow soreness for several starts this year , but Cardinals officials said the condition was never severe enough to consider shutting the right-hander down.
Following his start on Tuesday night, Wainwright said the game was his first since the season's opening week in which he did not feel some discomfort. He had been dealing with some tendinitis in his throwing elbow. On Wednesday, he further explained what he had been dealing with.
"It was pretty bad, but it wasn't bad enough to not pitch," he said. "It hurt to throw breaking balls and stuff. It hurt to get extended."
Following his start on Tuesday night, Wainwright said the game was his first since the season's opening week in which he did not feel some discomfort. He had been dealing with some tendinitis in his throwing elbow. On Wednesday, he further explained what he had been dealing with.
"It was pretty bad, but it wasn't bad enough to not pitch," he said. "It hurt to throw breaking balls and stuff. It hurt to get extended."
Cardinals lose again 5-4
Is there no end in sight? On any given night it's the Cardinal bats that are silent. On other nights it's the pitching. Some nights its both! Rarely do the Cardinals put both of them together for a nice win these days. Last night it was pitching that caused the loss. Kip Wells pitched just 5 innings last night. He gave up 6 hits, 6 walks and 5 runs. The hit that cost him the game was a 3 run home run by pinch hitter Wilson Betemit. To make matters worse with that home run he raised his batting average to a mere .194 for the season.
Hitting and scoring runs was not a problem for St Louis last night. One would think 4 runs would be enough for a win, but not last night. The Redbirds pounded out 12 hits, including 3 by out fielder Juan Encarnacion.
WP Randy Wolf 5-3. Takashi Saito recorded his thirteenth save.
LP Kip Wells 1-8. ERA for the season is now 6.75.
The Cardinals managed to get some good pitching from the bulls pen but the game was already decided so it went for naught.
Hitting and scoring runs was not a problem for St Louis last night. One would think 4 runs would be enough for a win, but not last night. The Redbirds pounded out 12 hits, including 3 by out fielder Juan Encarnacion.
WP Randy Wolf 5-3. Takashi Saito recorded his thirteenth save.
LP Kip Wells 1-8. ERA for the season is now 6.75.
The Cardinals managed to get some good pitching from the bulls pen but the game was already decided so it went for naught.
Wednesday, May 16, 2007
Cardinals score 7 runs, but that was not enough
For 2 and 1/2 innings it looked like the Cardinals was going to win another game. They took a 4-3 lead into the bottom of the third against the Dodgers, then the bottom fell out! Los Angeles scored 6 runs and that proved to be too much for St Louis to overcome as they lost 9-7.
Adam Wainwright gave up 7 hits and 8 runs in his brief appearance and none of the runs were home runs.
The Cardinals pounded out 12 hits.
WP Derek Lowe 4-4. Takashi Saito recorded his tenth save.
LP Adam Wainwright 3-3.
Adam Wainwright gave up 7 hits and 8 runs in his brief appearance and none of the runs were home runs.
The Cardinals pounded out 12 hits.
WP Derek Lowe 4-4. Takashi Saito recorded his tenth save.
LP Adam Wainwright 3-3.
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Cardinal bats come alive in victory
St Louis scored 8 runs in the first 3 innings and that was all they needed. They went on to defeat the Dodgers 8-4 in Los Angeles on Monday night. No one could be more happier than pitcher Brad Thompson as he went on to pitch 6 strong innings of baseball that included 70% of his pitches were strikes. Nothing like getting a nice cushion to allow oneself to be aggressive!
The Redbirds pounded out 13 hits to go with their 8 runs. Chris Duncan got his 6th home run of the season in the second inning. Short stop David Eckstein led the Cardinal attack with 3 hits.
WP Brad Thompson 2-0 Isringhausen got his 10th save of the season.
LP Brett Tomko 1-4. He went just 2 and 1/3 innings.
The Redbirds pounded out 13 hits to go with their 8 runs. Chris Duncan got his 6th home run of the season in the second inning. Short stop David Eckstein led the Cardinal attack with 3 hits.
WP Brad Thompson 2-0 Isringhausen got his 10th save of the season.
LP Brett Tomko 1-4. He went just 2 and 1/3 innings.
Monday, May 14, 2007
Bulls win game 4
Playing for pride and an effort to show Detroit that they deserve to be in the second round of the playoffs, the Chicago Bulls defeated the Detroit Pistons at the United Center, 102-87.
The game was almost a carbon copy of game three. Chicago was in control most of the first half taking a nice lead into halftime. The intense defense was not as stellar as in game three, but nevertheless the Bulls led 50-43.
Remembering what happened in game three, Chicago came out in the 3rd quarter and treated the fans and the national audience to the stellar defense that was shown in the previous game and out scored Detroit 27-13 to take a commanding 21 point lead into the 4th quarter.
Detroit has a very good team and you knew they would make a run. They did! This time the Bulls didn't fold even though their lead was cut down to just 7 points with plenty of time left in the game.
Detroit went to the Wallace-hack-attack but it failed them Ben managed to hit 3 of 4 big free throws to stop the run and rookie Tyrus Thomas added his energy and scoring as well to help the Bulls seal the victory and to force a game 5.
Kirk Hinrich finally had a good game. He had 19 points, 10 assists and 2 steals to go with 4 rebounds.
The Bulls out rebounded Detroit 51-33. Wallace had 17, Deng 13. Thomas had 7 in just 13 minutes.
Leading scorers:
Chicago Deng 15, Gordon and Hinrich 19 each. Ben Wallace had 11 and Thomas 10.
Detroit Billups 23, Prince 18, Rasheed Wallace 14, Hamilton 11, and Murray 10.
The game was almost a carbon copy of game three. Chicago was in control most of the first half taking a nice lead into halftime. The intense defense was not as stellar as in game three, but nevertheless the Bulls led 50-43.
Remembering what happened in game three, Chicago came out in the 3rd quarter and treated the fans and the national audience to the stellar defense that was shown in the previous game and out scored Detroit 27-13 to take a commanding 21 point lead into the 4th quarter.
Detroit has a very good team and you knew they would make a run. They did! This time the Bulls didn't fold even though their lead was cut down to just 7 points with plenty of time left in the game.
Detroit went to the Wallace-hack-attack but it failed them Ben managed to hit 3 of 4 big free throws to stop the run and rookie Tyrus Thomas added his energy and scoring as well to help the Bulls seal the victory and to force a game 5.
Kirk Hinrich finally had a good game. He had 19 points, 10 assists and 2 steals to go with 4 rebounds.
The Bulls out rebounded Detroit 51-33. Wallace had 17, Deng 13. Thomas had 7 in just 13 minutes.
Leading scorers:
Chicago Deng 15, Gordon and Hinrich 19 each. Ben Wallace had 11 and Thomas 10.
Detroit Billups 23, Prince 18, Rasheed Wallace 14, Hamilton 11, and Murray 10.
Padres return favor, blank Cardinals 3-0
St Louis has now played 35 games in the season and counting yesterdays game they have now been blanked 6 times!
Anthony Reyes actually pitched a decent game but all the Cardinal batters could do was muster up 3 harmless hits against Justin Germano. Germano had been taken off of a recent waiver. So far in the 7 games Reyes has started, the total amount of runs that the Cardinals has gotten him is just 8. You dont win many game that way.
WP Justin Germano 1-0. He pitched 7 innings, gave up 3 hits and 3 strike outs.Trevor Hoffman got save #10.
LP Anthony Reyes 0-6. He pitched 5 innings and gave up 5 hits and 3 runs. He had 5 strike outs.
Anthony Reyes actually pitched a decent game but all the Cardinal batters could do was muster up 3 harmless hits against Justin Germano. Germano had been taken off of a recent waiver. So far in the 7 games Reyes has started, the total amount of runs that the Cardinals has gotten him is just 8. You dont win many game that way.
WP Justin Germano 1-0. He pitched 7 innings, gave up 3 hits and 3 strike outs.Trevor Hoffman got save #10.
LP Anthony Reyes 0-6. He pitched 5 innings and gave up 5 hits and 3 runs. He had 5 strike outs.
Sunday, May 13, 2007
Cardinals Blank Padres
Braden Looper used his arm and his bat to propel the Redbirds to a 5-0 defeat of the Padres in San Diego on Saturday night.
Looper pitched 7 innings of 3 hit ball while getting 7 strike outs. He also lowered his ERA to 2.29 for the year. Add to this the fact that with one out in the third, Looper doubled down the right-field line. Adam Kennedy singled to center, and Chris Duncan walked to load the bases. Albert Pujols hit a fly ball deep to left field, but the ball squirted out of the left fielders glove. That scored the lead run, and the bases remained loaded. I thought Pujols had hit a grand slam, but instead it was only 1-0. That being said that is all Looper needed to get the win.
WP Looper 5-2
LP Young 4-3
Looper pitched 7 innings of 3 hit ball while getting 7 strike outs. He also lowered his ERA to 2.29 for the year. Add to this the fact that with one out in the third, Looper doubled down the right-field line. Adam Kennedy singled to center, and Chris Duncan walked to load the bases. Albert Pujols hit a fly ball deep to left field, but the ball squirted out of the left fielders glove. That scored the lead run, and the bases remained loaded. I thought Pujols had hit a grand slam, but instead it was only 1-0. That being said that is all Looper needed to get the win.
WP Looper 5-2
LP Young 4-3
Saturday, May 12, 2007
Cardinals blanked 7-0
After scoring 9 runs in their last game on Wednesday, the Cardinals went into San Diego hoping to build on that outburst and try and defeat the Padres. However, that was not to be. Jake Peavy pitched 7 strong innings of baseball as he held the Redbirds to just 3 hits while getting 10 strike outs! It didn't help the matter that Kip Wells struggled from the mound. He managed to pitch 6 innings but he gave up 7 hits and 4 runs. Two of those 7 hits were home runs. He did manage to get 8 strike outs while losing his 6th straight game.
Is there an end in site? There doesn't appear to be. The "meat" of the Cardinal lineup is struggling to bat over .200 and we are well into the season. That's not good! The clean up hitter Jim Edmonds is batting .202, he is followed by Scott Rolen .204, and Ryan Ludwick is batting .200. Even the number 8 hitter shortstop David Eckstein is batting .213! Add to the fact that the pitching staff is not as strong as it had been in the past, you can see why the Redbirds are 9 games out of first place and just 1/2 game from being in last place in the Central Division of the National League.
WP Peavy 5-1 and increased his ERA to 1.52
LP Wells 1-7 ERA 6.51
Is there an end in site? There doesn't appear to be. The "meat" of the Cardinal lineup is struggling to bat over .200 and we are well into the season. That's not good! The clean up hitter Jim Edmonds is batting .202, he is followed by Scott Rolen .204, and Ryan Ludwick is batting .200. Even the number 8 hitter shortstop David Eckstein is batting .213! Add to the fact that the pitching staff is not as strong as it had been in the past, you can see why the Redbirds are 9 games out of first place and just 1/2 game from being in last place in the Central Division of the National League.
WP Peavy 5-1 and increased his ERA to 1.52
LP Wells 1-7 ERA 6.51
The Tale of Two Halfs
For the first half of Thursdays playoff game between the Chicago Bulls and the Detroit Pistons, the Chicago Bulls looked like the best team in the NBA. The hard playing, defensive team showed itself for the first time in the playoffs as the Bulls raced to a 44-28 first half lead over the Detroit Pistons. The Bulls held the Pistons to just 10 points in the second quarter and only 33% shooting along with 8 turnovers as it looked like the Bulls were well on their way to winning game 3 of the best of 7 playoff series. Detroit was 0-8 in three point attempt. The Bulls were out rebounding them. Chicago was not fouling as well because Detroit had just 2 free throw attempts the entire first half.
The defense that I saw Chicago play was some of the best defense I have seen a Bulls team play in a long time. Then came the second half.
Lead by Billups and Prince and a zone defense, the Pistons outscored the Bulls 32-17 in the 3rd quarter. Detroit took advantage of the small guards that the Bulls have and posted them up time and time again. The Bulls didnt have the same defensive entencity they had in the first half. They even started making silly mistakes that cost them shot attempts.
Quarter 4 was more of the same. Detroit held Chicago to 13 points, 30 for the entire half as they went on to win game 3 81-74 setting up a possible sweep of the series in Chicago on Sunday.
As I watched the game it looked to me like the Bulls ran out of gas in the 4th quarter. Why would they do that if they were used to playing hard all year? Aren't they conditioned? Yes they are, but for some reason Skiles didn't do his normal substitution pattern and went with the top 6 or 7 players for most of the second half. Because of that, the Bulls were clanking shots and missing free throws when they counted. The defense was not there as well! The Bulls ended the game shooting yet another 34%!
They out rebounded Detroit by 17 yet that resulted in just 2 more shot attempts than Detroit had.
Another reason for the loss was the fact that once again the Bulls cannot hit their 3's. They were 2-13 for 16%.
Leading scorer was Prince with 21. He was followed by Billups and Deng with 21. Hamilton, Sheed' and Gordon had 16 each.
The defense that I saw Chicago play was some of the best defense I have seen a Bulls team play in a long time. Then came the second half.
Lead by Billups and Prince and a zone defense, the Pistons outscored the Bulls 32-17 in the 3rd quarter. Detroit took advantage of the small guards that the Bulls have and posted them up time and time again. The Bulls didnt have the same defensive entencity they had in the first half. They even started making silly mistakes that cost them shot attempts.
Quarter 4 was more of the same. Detroit held Chicago to 13 points, 30 for the entire half as they went on to win game 3 81-74 setting up a possible sweep of the series in Chicago on Sunday.
As I watched the game it looked to me like the Bulls ran out of gas in the 4th quarter. Why would they do that if they were used to playing hard all year? Aren't they conditioned? Yes they are, but for some reason Skiles didn't do his normal substitution pattern and went with the top 6 or 7 players for most of the second half. Because of that, the Bulls were clanking shots and missing free throws when they counted. The defense was not there as well! The Bulls ended the game shooting yet another 34%!
They out rebounded Detroit by 17 yet that resulted in just 2 more shot attempts than Detroit had.
Another reason for the loss was the fact that once again the Bulls cannot hit their 3's. They were 2-13 for 16%.
Leading scorer was Prince with 21. He was followed by Billups and Deng with 21. Hamilton, Sheed' and Gordon had 16 each.
Thursday, May 10, 2007
Team effort in win over Rockies
The Cardinal bats and the team pitching came together in one of the few times this season as St Louis defeated Colorado 9-2 on a Thursday afternoon matinee.
The Redbirds banged out 13 hits with second baseman Aaron Miles getting three of those hits.
WP Wainwright 3-2 6 innings 9 hits and 2 runs. Falkenborg, Flores, and Springer combined for 3 innings of no hit baseball.
LP Hirsh 2-3. He lasted just 4 innings.
The Redbirds banged out 13 hits with second baseman Aaron Miles getting three of those hits.
WP Wainwright 3-2 6 innings 9 hits and 2 runs. Falkenborg, Flores, and Springer combined for 3 innings of no hit baseball.
LP Hirsh 2-3. He lasted just 4 innings.
Wednesday, May 9, 2007
Cardinals defeat Rockies 4-1
Finally some good news to write about! First off the Cardinals scored 4 runs! The second thing is that was enough to win thanks to rookie pitcher Brad Thompson's 5 strong innings of pitching! He gave up just 6 hits and 1 run, striking out two and he gave up 1 home run to left fielder Matt Holliday his 6th home run of the year.
There is even more good news! Jim Edmonds going into last nights game was struggling to bat barely over .200, had 3 hits last night and 1 sacrifice out to help seal the victory.
All is not great, just yet. There is still cause for concern. The recent 5 game home stand the Redbirds have scored in just 5 of 42 innings. Yet they have managed to win 3 of 5 games; however, if the bats continue to remain silent, that could change the win/loss dissparity for the worse.
WP Kelvin Jimene 1-0 Isringhausen save #9
LP Denny Bautista 2-1, he pitched 1/3 of an inning and gave up 2 hits and 3 runs.
There is even more good news! Jim Edmonds going into last nights game was struggling to bat barely over .200, had 3 hits last night and 1 sacrifice out to help seal the victory.
All is not great, just yet. There is still cause for concern. The recent 5 game home stand the Redbirds have scored in just 5 of 42 innings. Yet they have managed to win 3 of 5 games; however, if the bats continue to remain silent, that could change the win/loss dissparity for the worse.
WP Kelvin Jimene 1-0 Isringhausen save #9
LP Denny Bautista 2-1, he pitched 1/3 of an inning and gave up 2 hits and 3 runs.
Tuesday, May 8, 2007
Bulls pounded again
Having not recovered from the first game, the Bulls got behind early and never recovered as they lost to Detroit at the Palace 108-87.
Detroit came out sizzling. Hitting just about every shot they took to a 34-18 first quarter lead. It was almost a carbon copy of game one. Detroit with the energy, getting all of the lose balls, all of the offensive rebounds, limiting the bulls to 1 hot and 33% shooting and handcuffing Ben Gordon.
For all practical purposes the game was over. Detroit managed to increase their lead by 6 the rest of the game and finished the game shooting 54% while the Bulls shot just 34%!
Two players came ready to play. Ben Wallace and Tyrus Thomas. Even Luol Deng scored under his playoff average managing to score just 16 points. Ben Gordon had 13, but he took just 7 shots for the entire game. For the Bulls to have a chance to win, Gordon needs to shoot more than 7 times. Kirk Hinrich was 0-7 for just 2 points.
Ben Wallace was their leading scorer at halftime with 12 points. That's how bad things went for the Bulls.
Andres Nocioni played better than in game one but with zero results in the outcome of the game. He had 12 points but just 1 rebound.
There was even a Michael Sweetney siting as Scott Skiles tried to find someone other than Wallace that could rebound and score in the post.
Detroit out rebounded the Bulls 51-30. The had 15 offensive rebounds that resulted in 11 more shots than the Bulls took.
Prince had 25 points
Webber 22
Hamilton 24
Billups 14
Wallace 10
Thomas lead the Bulls with 18
Deng 16
Wallace 13
Gordon 13
Nocioni 12
Detroit came out sizzling. Hitting just about every shot they took to a 34-18 first quarter lead. It was almost a carbon copy of game one. Detroit with the energy, getting all of the lose balls, all of the offensive rebounds, limiting the bulls to 1 hot and 33% shooting and handcuffing Ben Gordon.
For all practical purposes the game was over. Detroit managed to increase their lead by 6 the rest of the game and finished the game shooting 54% while the Bulls shot just 34%!
Two players came ready to play. Ben Wallace and Tyrus Thomas. Even Luol Deng scored under his playoff average managing to score just 16 points. Ben Gordon had 13, but he took just 7 shots for the entire game. For the Bulls to have a chance to win, Gordon needs to shoot more than 7 times. Kirk Hinrich was 0-7 for just 2 points.
Ben Wallace was their leading scorer at halftime with 12 points. That's how bad things went for the Bulls.
Andres Nocioni played better than in game one but with zero results in the outcome of the game. He had 12 points but just 1 rebound.
There was even a Michael Sweetney siting as Scott Skiles tried to find someone other than Wallace that could rebound and score in the post.
Detroit out rebounded the Bulls 51-30. The had 15 offensive rebounds that resulted in 11 more shots than the Bulls took.
Prince had 25 points
Webber 22
Hamilton 24
Billups 14
Wallace 10
Thomas lead the Bulls with 18
Deng 16
Wallace 13
Gordon 13
Nocioni 12
Cardinals lose again
Don't blame Anthony Reyes. He struck out 5 batters and 2/3 of his pitches were strikes. He pitched 6 innings and gave up just 3 hits and 2 runs, yet the Redbird's bats remained silent once more. According to Daniel Berk of MLB.com, the Cardinals have scored in just three innings of the 34 innings played during this recent homestand. That won't win many games. They managed to score 2 runs but that was not enough to win. The team had just 4 hits for the entire game.
WP McClellan 1-0 Fuentes got his 8th save.
LP Falkenborg 0-1
Reyes is still 0-5 with an era of 5.03
First baseman Todd Helton hit his 3rd home run of the season in the 2nd inning off of Reyes.
WP McClellan 1-0 Fuentes got his 8th save.
LP Falkenborg 0-1
Reyes is still 0-5 with an era of 5.03
First baseman Todd Helton hit his 3rd home run of the season in the 2nd inning off of Reyes.
Monday, May 7, 2007
Van Gundy leaving Rockets
Saturday's Game 7 loss to the Jazz was the last for Jeff Van Gundy as the Houston Rockets' coach, according to the New York Post.
Citing an "impeccable source," The Post reported that Van Gundy is leaving NBA coaching for the forseeable future. According to the source, Van Gundy's decision isn't based on the first-round series loss to the Jazz.
When contacted by ESPN.com on Sunday, Rockets spokesman Nelson Luis said Van Gundy planned to speak to the media on Monday.
"We don't know where this came from. Jeff has been spending all his energy working on the Utah series, and he hasn't put any thought into his future situation."
Complete story
I am not suprised with Jeff's decision should this turnout to be true. He has had a nice team in Houston with one of the top 5 players in the league in McGrady. He had one of the top 3 centers in the league in Ming. He had a nice supporting cast including a deep bench that had Dekembe Mutombo, yet this team never seriously challenged in the West.
Citing an "impeccable source," The Post reported that Van Gundy is leaving NBA coaching for the forseeable future. According to the source, Van Gundy's decision isn't based on the first-round series loss to the Jazz.
When contacted by ESPN.com on Sunday, Rockets spokesman Nelson Luis said Van Gundy planned to speak to the media on Monday.
"We don't know where this came from. Jeff has been spending all his energy working on the Utah series, and he hasn't put any thought into his future situation."
I am not suprised with Jeff's decision should this turnout to be true. He has had a nice team in Houston with one of the top 5 players in the league in McGrady. He had one of the top 3 centers in the league in Ming. He had a nice supporting cast including a deep bench that had Dekembe Mutombo, yet this team never seriously challenged in the West.
Kobe Bryant a future Bull?
Kobe made no secret that he was willing to play for the Bulls two years ago. Remember the Shaq/Kobe ever ongoing squabble they had in LA? Well it seems that the Lakers had decide which player they wanted to keep. Kobe would have loved to come to Chicago to play for the Bulls. In fact John Paxson flew to LA to have serious talks with Kobe. Why didn't Kobe not come to Chicago and talk to management there? He couldn't leave the state of California. This was during the time he was going through court proceedings in his rape accusation.
Since then, he has stated numerous times that he was serious when he talked to the Bulls! We all know what happened, Shaq was traded and the Lakers have sputtered since then. So far at least management in LA has failed to build a contending team along side Kobe to seriously compete for championships.
Meanwhile the Bulls have advanced to the second round of the playoffs. The team is young and seems to be going places. Since Kobe is under a long term contract with the Lakers, why do I even speculate that he may play for the Bulls? After all, it doesn't make sense for Chicago to break up its core to trade for Kobe. Chicago would be in the same situation the Lakers are in now!
It seems Kobe has the option to opt out of his contract in 2008-2009! Its not beyond the realm of possibility that the Bulls could be well under the cap at that time.
Kobe Bryant a Bull? Stay tuned!
Since then, he has stated numerous times that he was serious when he talked to the Bulls! We all know what happened, Shaq was traded and the Lakers have sputtered since then. So far at least management in LA has failed to build a contending team along side Kobe to seriously compete for championships.
Meanwhile the Bulls have advanced to the second round of the playoffs. The team is young and seems to be going places. Since Kobe is under a long term contract with the Lakers, why do I even speculate that he may play for the Bulls? After all, it doesn't make sense for Chicago to break up its core to trade for Kobe. Chicago would be in the same situation the Lakers are in now!
It seems Kobe has the option to opt out of his contract in 2008-2009! Its not beyond the realm of possibility that the Bulls could be well under the cap at that time.
Kobe Bryant a Bull? Stay tuned!
Sunday, May 6, 2007
Panthers release Keyshawn Johnson
CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) -- When the Carolina Panthers drafted Southern California receiver Dwayne Jarrett in the second round Saturday, Keyshawn Johnson was ecstatic.
"This is a great pick. We need another wide receiver," Johnson gushed while working as a draft analyst for ESPN. "This guy is much like me. I'm going to teach him how to play from the point of attack."
He won't get the chance.
The Panthers deemed their older former USC receiver was expendable Tuesday. Johnson, the 6-foot-4 possession receiver and 1996 No. 1 overall pick, was released to make way for a younger 6-foot-4 possession receiver taken with the 45th pick.
"We appreciated the contribution of Keyshawn in his season with the Panthers," coach John Fox said. "He brought us high production, but at this time, we are in a situation in which we have a number of young receivers and thought this was the right time to make the decision."
Complete Story
I am little late with this story but it needs to be posted nonetheless. I am surprised with the decision the Panthers made. Keyshawn has a couple of good years left and the team is not that bad. They can compete, but it appears they are going towards rebuilding with some of the young receivers they have.
Johnson stated he wants to play two more years. Patriots recently aquired Randy Moss. It will be interesting to see which contender picks him up.
"This is a great pick. We need another wide receiver," Johnson gushed while working as a draft analyst for ESPN. "This guy is much like me. I'm going to teach him how to play from the point of attack."
He won't get the chance.
The Panthers deemed their older former USC receiver was expendable Tuesday. Johnson, the 6-foot-4 possession receiver and 1996 No. 1 overall pick, was released to make way for a younger 6-foot-4 possession receiver taken with the 45th pick.
"We appreciated the contribution of Keyshawn in his season with the Panthers," coach John Fox said. "He brought us high production, but at this time, we are in a situation in which we have a number of young receivers and thought this was the right time to make the decision."
I am little late with this story but it needs to be posted nonetheless. I am surprised with the decision the Panthers made. Keyshawn has a couple of good years left and the team is not that bad. They can compete, but it appears they are going towards rebuilding with some of the young receivers they have.
Johnson stated he wants to play two more years. Patriots recently aquired Randy Moss. It will be interesting to see which contender picks him up.
Clemens announces return to Yanks
NEW YORK -- The Yankees desperately needed another quality starting pitcher. Roger Clemens didn't want to wait any longer to pitch. It all came together on a memorable Sunday afternoon.
The Rocket has lifted off again in the Bronx, returning to Yankee Stadium and resuming his career in pinstripes, leaving the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox -- Clemens' other potential suitors -- behind in past speculation.
The Yankees announced on Sunday that they have signed Clemens, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, to a Minor League contract for the 2007 season. Clemens will earn $28 million on a prorated basis from the first day he is added to the Yankees' Major League roster, and make no mistake: he's in New York for one reason only.
Complete story
The Rocket has lifted off again in the Bronx, returning to Yankee Stadium and resuming his career in pinstripes, leaving the Houston Astros and the Boston Red Sox -- Clemens' other potential suitors -- behind in past speculation.
The Yankees announced on Sunday that they have signed Clemens, a seven-time Cy Young Award winner, to a Minor League contract for the 2007 season. Clemens will earn $28 million on a prorated basis from the first day he is added to the Yankees' Major League roster, and make no mistake: he's in New York for one reason only.
Cardinals defeat Astros 3-1
Trailing 1-0 in the fourth inning, Adam Kennedy blooped a single down the right-field line. Chris Duncan then doubled to move Kennedy over to third. After an Albert Pujols popout and a Jim Edmonds walk, Rolen came though with a single to give the Cards the lead.
The Cards added one more in the inning with a RBI groundout by Ryan Ludwick, playing in his first game as a Cardinal after being called up from Triple-A Memphis.
That's all the Cards offense could generate, continuing their recent struggles at the plate, marking the eighth straight game the Cards scored three runs or less.
That's where Braden Looper comes in! Finally, Cardinal pitching held a team at bay! He pitched 6 strong innings, giving up just 6 hits and 1 run. He had 3 strike outs. Three relief pitchers allowed 4 harmless hits the rest of the game.
The Cardinals had 7 hits as a team with Kennedy leading off the order getting 3 of those hits!
WP Looper 2-2, Isringhausen gets save #8.
LP Sampson 3-2
The Cards added one more in the inning with a RBI groundout by Ryan Ludwick, playing in his first game as a Cardinal after being called up from Triple-A Memphis.
That's all the Cards offense could generate, continuing their recent struggles at the plate, marking the eighth straight game the Cards scored three runs or less.
That's where Braden Looper comes in! Finally, Cardinal pitching held a team at bay! He pitched 6 strong innings, giving up just 6 hits and 1 run. He had 3 strike outs. Three relief pitchers allowed 4 harmless hits the rest of the game.
The Cardinals had 7 hits as a team with Kennedy leading off the order getting 3 of those hits!
WP Looper 2-2, Isringhausen gets save #8.
LP Sampson 3-2
Saturday, May 5, 2007
Astros shut out the Cardinals 13-0
Kip Wells after giving up a first inning run, settled down and retired 9 straight. It looked like he was going to pitch a nice game for St Louis, then came the fifth inning. Wells walked three of the first five batters in the fifth, then permitted a three-run double to Carlos Lee that chased him from the game and removed any doubt about the outcome.
Rookie Matt Albers pitched very well for Houston. He went 7 1/3 innings giving up just 3 hits.
WP Albers 1-1
LP Wells 1-6
The Redbirds pitching staff gave up 14 hits on 13 runs.
Rookie Matt Albers pitched very well for Houston. He went 7 1/3 innings giving up just 3 hits.
WP Albers 1-1
LP Wells 1-6
The Redbirds pitching staff gave up 14 hits on 13 runs.
Carpenter to undergo elbow surgery
ST. LOUIS -- An already difficult season for the Cardinals grew tougher on Saturday, when the team announced that right-hander Chris Carpenter will undergo arthroscopic surgery on his right elbow.
The 2005 Cy Young Award winner, who hasn't pitched since Opening Night, is expected to be sidelined for at least three more months. Dr. George Paletta, the Cardinals' head team physician, will perform the operation on Tuesday.
"That's a huge hit," said manager Tony La Russa. "But that's part of the game, part of baseball. Our goal now is to be in contention when he gets back."
Carpenter won't throw a ball for roughly six weeks after the surgery. From there, it will likely be at least six weeks before he is able to pitch competitively in a game. It is hoped and expected, but not guaranteed, that he will be able to return to active duty before the season ends.
Complete article
Can things get any worse for the Cardinals?
The 2005 Cy Young Award winner, who hasn't pitched since Opening Night, is expected to be sidelined for at least three more months. Dr. George Paletta, the Cardinals' head team physician, will perform the operation on Tuesday.
"That's a huge hit," said manager Tony La Russa. "But that's part of the game, part of baseball. Our goal now is to be in contention when he gets back."
Carpenter won't throw a ball for roughly six weeks after the surgery. From there, it will likely be at least six weeks before he is able to pitch competitively in a game. It is hoped and expected, but not guaranteed, that he will be able to return to active duty before the season ends.
Can things get any worse for the Cardinals?
Pistons rout Bulls in game 1
The Bulls bench had might as well stayed home. They gave the team absolutely nothing. The entire bench was 3-30. Ben Gordon was 2-9 with just 7 points and the Bulls shot 33% for the game as Detroit destroyed Chicago 95-69 at the Palace in game one of the best of seven series.
Detroit came into the game determined to match Chicago's energy, and for the most part they did! They out rebounded the bulls 46-38; however, the numbers were worse than that because during garbage time the Bulls closed the gap somewhat.
Early on, Detroit was getting all of the calls and that caused Ben Gordon to get two quick fouls and he never was the same after that.
For Detroit they have to feel good about the win. They know they sent a statement to Chicago, and that statement was, "You may have swept the world champs, but we are not Miami!"
For the Bulls, this has to hurt, but Skiles needs to tell them it's just one game. Our bench won't play that bad every game. We won't shoot 33% for the game, every game! We can work on the turnovers and we need to. We can defend the offensive boards better and we will.
Years ago, back in the 80's when the Lakers were 'showtime' and the Celtics had Bird and supporting company, I remember LA going into Boston for game 1 and the Celtics destroyed them. LA came back and won the series. That being said, I know we are not the Lakers of showtime era. All I am saying is it's not as dire as it seems. It's one game.
Detroit was lead by Hamilton and Billups with 20 each. Prince and Wallace added 13 each.
Deng had 18. Hinrich 15, and Wallace 9! You know we played bad when Ben Wallace was your third leading scorer.
Detroit came into the game determined to match Chicago's energy, and for the most part they did! They out rebounded the bulls 46-38; however, the numbers were worse than that because during garbage time the Bulls closed the gap somewhat.
Early on, Detroit was getting all of the calls and that caused Ben Gordon to get two quick fouls and he never was the same after that.
For Detroit they have to feel good about the win. They know they sent a statement to Chicago, and that statement was, "You may have swept the world champs, but we are not Miami!"
For the Bulls, this has to hurt, but Skiles needs to tell them it's just one game. Our bench won't play that bad every game. We won't shoot 33% for the game, every game! We can work on the turnovers and we need to. We can defend the offensive boards better and we will.
Years ago, back in the 80's when the Lakers were 'showtime' and the Celtics had Bird and supporting company, I remember LA going into Boston for game 1 and the Celtics destroyed them. LA came back and won the series. That being said, I know we are not the Lakers of showtime era. All I am saying is it's not as dire as it seems. It's one game.
Detroit was lead by Hamilton and Billups with 20 each. Prince and Wallace added 13 each.
Deng had 18. Hinrich 15, and Wallace 9! You know we played bad when Ben Wallace was your third leading scorer.
Redbirds snap 5 game skid
Going into last nights game with the Astros, to say things were looking bleak is an understatement. The Cardinals were on a five game losing streak and going to the mound was Adam Wainwright. Adam had a record of 1-2, but a ERA of over 6. Keep in mind that St. Louis had not been a very good home team so far and their bats have been silent more than not most of the year, the stage was set for yet another loss.
Pitching came through for them! Wainwright pitched 6 innings giving up just 7 hits and 2 runs. Add to that the fact that the Cardinal bullpen combined for 9 big outs to lead the Cardinals to a 3-2 victory over the Houston Astros.
WP Wainwright 2-2 Isringhausen save 7
LP Williams 0-5. He pitched 6 innings. 5 hits 3 runs.
Pitching came through for them! Wainwright pitched 6 innings giving up just 7 hits and 2 runs. Add to that the fact that the Cardinal bullpen combined for 9 big outs to lead the Cardinals to a 3-2 victory over the Houston Astros.
WP Wainwright 2-2 Isringhausen save 7
LP Williams 0-5. He pitched 6 innings. 5 hits 3 runs.
Cardinals ban alcohol in clubhouse
ST. LOUIS -- The Cardinals announced on Friday that they are banning alcohol from the home clubhouse at Busch Stadium, as well as pondering other adjustments to their alcohol policies.
In light of the death of pitcher Josh Hancock, who lost his life in a wreck early Sunday morning, club officials said they are re-examining many of the ways they do business. The first step, however, was a quick and simple one, to end the policy of providing and allowing alcohol to players after games.
Hancock was determined to have been driving while under the influence at the time of his crash.
"I think it's a smart gesture, it's an important gesture, but it's not meaningful," manager Tony La Russa said. "Because guys just don't stay around the clubhouse anymore."
Complete article
In light of the death of pitcher Josh Hancock, who lost his life in a wreck early Sunday morning, club officials said they are re-examining many of the ways they do business. The first step, however, was a quick and simple one, to end the policy of providing and allowing alcohol to players after games.
Hancock was determined to have been driving while under the influence at the time of his crash.
"I think it's a smart gesture, it's an important gesture, but it's not meaningful," manager Tony La Russa said. "Because guys just don't stay around the clubhouse anymore."
Friday, May 4, 2007
Bulls F Luol Deng wins NBA Sportsmanship Award
Chicago Bulls forward Luol Deng is the
winner of the Joe Dumars Trophy for the NBA Sportsmanship Award,
the league announced Thursday.
The award is voted on by players and goes to the player who
exemplifies the ideals of sportsmanship on the court - ethical
behavior, fair play and integrity. Deng was not called for a
technical foul or a flagrant foul this season.
The trophy is named after Dumars, a Hall of Famer who serves as
president of the Detroit Pistons and was the award's first
recipient in 1996. Ironically, Deng will be facing Dumars'
Pistons in the Eastern Conference semifinals starting this
weekend.
Deng also was the Central Division nominee a year ago. This
year, he received 2,027 points in the balloting to edge
Southwest Division representative Shane Battier of the Houston
Rockets, who received 2,005 points.
Other division representatives were Utah Jazz guard Derek Fisher
of the Northwest (1,953 points), Los Angeles Clippers forward
Elton Brand of the Pacific (1,935), Atlanta Hawks guard Joe
Johnson of the Southeast (1,737) and Toronto Raptors guard
Anthony Parker of the Atlantic (1,737).
Deng, Battier and Brand all attended Duke University. Brand was
last year's winner.
The league will donate $25,000 on behalf of Deng to Pacific
Garden Mission, the oldest continuously operating rescue mission
in the United States. The NBA also will donate $10,000 each to
charities of choice of the other finalists.
winner of the Joe Dumars Trophy for the NBA Sportsmanship Award,
the league announced Thursday.
The award is voted on by players and goes to the player who
exemplifies the ideals of sportsmanship on the court - ethical
behavior, fair play and integrity. Deng was not called for a
technical foul or a flagrant foul this season.
The trophy is named after Dumars, a Hall of Famer who serves as
president of the Detroit Pistons and was the award's first
recipient in 1996. Ironically, Deng will be facing Dumars'
Pistons in the Eastern Conference semifinals starting this
weekend.
Deng also was the Central Division nominee a year ago. This
year, he received 2,027 points in the balloting to edge
Southwest Division representative Shane Battier of the Houston
Rockets, who received 2,005 points.
Other division representatives were Utah Jazz guard Derek Fisher
of the Northwest (1,953 points), Los Angeles Clippers forward
Elton Brand of the Pacific (1,935), Atlanta Hawks guard Joe
Johnson of the Southeast (1,737) and Toronto Raptors guard
Anthony Parker of the Atlantic (1,737).
Deng, Battier and Brand all attended Duke University. Brand was
last year's winner.
The league will donate $25,000 on behalf of Deng to Pacific
Garden Mission, the oldest continuously operating rescue mission
in the United States. The NBA also will donate $10,000 each to
charities of choice of the other finalists.
Good news! Cardinals didnt lose last night
Finally the Redbirds never lost; however, they never had to play a team either. It was an off day. A day when Josh Hancock was still on their minds. It looks like his loss is going to take a while for them to get over.
Remember five years when they lost Darryl Kile? The very first game after his funeral, the team regrouped and played good ball for the rest of the season. Let's hope the same thing happens this time.
Cardinals play the Astros starting this evening. Adam Wainwright 1-2, 6.14 ERA will start for St Louis while RHP Chris Sampson 3-1, 3.55 ERA will be on the mound for Houston.
The game will start at 7:10 CT.
Remember five years when they lost Darryl Kile? The very first game after his funeral, the team regrouped and played good ball for the rest of the season. Let's hope the same thing happens this time.
Cardinals play the Astros starting this evening. Adam Wainwright 1-2, 6.14 ERA will start for St Louis while RHP Chris Sampson 3-1, 3.55 ERA will be on the mound for Houston.
The game will start at 7:10 CT.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Cardinals blanked 4-0
The Cardinals lost their fifth straight loss Wednesday night to fall to 10-16 as they lost to the Milwaukee Brewers 4-0. They now trail the Brewers by 7 1/2 games. This is the farthest they have been out of first place since Aug. 8, 2001, when they were eight games back.
It's difficult to find a positive note when your team gets blanked but there was a bright spot to bring up. Anthony Reyes pitched his best game of the year! He struck out 8 batters through 6 innings and gave up just 3 hits. Trouble is he didn't get any help from the team.
Another bright spot in the game was Albert Pujols. He had 3 hits (even though the entire team managed only 5 hits total).Albert has not hit in 11 straight games and is batting .280.
WP Carlos Villanueva 2-0
LP Anthony Reyes 0-5
Milwaukee managed only 4 hits but they had 4 base on balls as well.
Brewers are now 18-9 with a 5 game lead on the Reds.
It's difficult to find a positive note when your team gets blanked but there was a bright spot to bring up. Anthony Reyes pitched his best game of the year! He struck out 8 batters through 6 innings and gave up just 3 hits. Trouble is he didn't get any help from the team.
Another bright spot in the game was Albert Pujols. He had 3 hits (even though the entire team managed only 5 hits total).Albert has not hit in 11 straight games and is batting .280.
WP Carlos Villanueva 2-0
LP Anthony Reyes 0-5
Milwaukee managed only 4 hits but they had 4 base on balls as well.
Brewers are now 18-9 with a 5 game lead on the Reds.
Wednesday, May 2, 2007
Newnan's Darrah commits to play football at Alabama
Thomas Darrah, who has enjoyed success in three sports at Newnan High School, will now become part of what is arguably the most-storied football program in the country.
He has committed to play at the University of Alabama.
Darrah and his parents visited Tuscaloosa a couple of weeks ago and when the opportunity presented itself to become part of the Alabama program, he accepted.
The decision closed the books on one of the most intriguing recruiting stories in recent memory.
After passing for over 7,000 yards and 50-plus touchdowns in his career, being named The Times-Herald's Offensive Player of the Year and making several all-star teams including All-Region and All-State squads, there were surprisingly few callers after he concluded his senior season on the gridiron.
Complete article
He has committed to play at the University of Alabama.
Darrah and his parents visited Tuscaloosa a couple of weeks ago and when the opportunity presented itself to become part of the Alabama program, he accepted.
The decision closed the books on one of the most intriguing recruiting stories in recent memory.
After passing for over 7,000 yards and 50-plus touchdowns in his career, being named The Times-Herald's Offensive Player of the Year and making several all-star teams including All-Region and All-State squads, there were surprisingly few callers after he concluded his senior season on the gridiron.
Cardinals continue slide, lose to Brewers 12-2
Braden Looper dodged trouble for four shutout innings before he and his defense crumbled in the fifth. Taking a 2-0 lead into the bottom of the fifth, Looper permitted four runs in that inning. He and the Cards bullpen were touched for seven runs in the sixth, putting the game out of reach.
Looper has been the Cardinals best pitcher to date, so the loss to Milwaukee in the way it happened cannot be encouraging news to the Redbirds.
WP Ben Sheets 2-2. He went 6 innings allowing 6 hits and 2 runs, and 1 home run.
LP Braden Looper 3-2. He went just 5 innings allowing 11 hits and 6 runs. The entire Cardinal staff gave up 17 hits to Milwaukee, including home runs to Graffanino, and Jenkins.
The Cardinals had 9 hits that included a home run by Duncan, his fifth of the year.
Carpenter inches closer to return
Chris Carpenter threw 3 simualted innings to 4 Cardinal batters and as far as anyone can tell the session was good. So speculation is Carpenter may start a game for the Cardinals within the week. Maybe he can stop some of the bleeding.
Looper has been the Cardinals best pitcher to date, so the loss to Milwaukee in the way it happened cannot be encouraging news to the Redbirds.
WP Ben Sheets 2-2. He went 6 innings allowing 6 hits and 2 runs, and 1 home run.
LP Braden Looper 3-2. He went just 5 innings allowing 11 hits and 6 runs. The entire Cardinal staff gave up 17 hits to Milwaukee, including home runs to Graffanino, and Jenkins.
The Cardinals had 9 hits that included a home run by Duncan, his fifth of the year.
Carpenter inches closer to return
Chris Carpenter threw 3 simualted innings to 4 Cardinal batters and as far as anyone can tell the session was good. So speculation is Carpenter may start a game for the Cardinals within the week. Maybe he can stop some of the bleeding.
Tuesday, May 1, 2007
Cards lose again
Former Cardinal pitchers love facing the Cardinals these days. As Marquis and now Jeff Suppan. Jeff shut down the Cardinals for the second time this year to help the Brewers easily defeat the Redbirds 7-1 on Monday night in Milwaukee.
Suppan's counter part Kip Wells struggled through 6 innings, giving up 6 hits on 7 runs, 3 walks and 1 homerun to Fielder, his 6th of the year in the 3rd inning.
The Cardinals may still be in mourning from the tragic and sudden death of their former relief pitcher Josh Hancock who was killed in a car crash recently. Publicly they not admitting it.
St Louis had 8 hits. Center fielder Skip Schumaker had three of them.
WP was Jeff Suppan now 4-2. He went the distance for the Brewers, allowed 8 hits and 1 run. Jeff got 5 strike outs and allowed 1 base on ball.
LP was Kip Wells now 1-5.
St Louis is now 10-14 and in last place in the central division.
Milaukee is 16-9 and is currently in first place in the central.
Suppan's counter part Kip Wells struggled through 6 innings, giving up 6 hits on 7 runs, 3 walks and 1 homerun to Fielder, his 6th of the year in the 3rd inning.
The Cardinals may still be in mourning from the tragic and sudden death of their former relief pitcher Josh Hancock who was killed in a car crash recently. Publicly they not admitting it.
St Louis had 8 hits. Center fielder Skip Schumaker had three of them.
WP was Jeff Suppan now 4-2. He went the distance for the Brewers, allowed 8 hits and 1 run. Jeff got 5 strike outs and allowed 1 base on ball.
LP was Kip Wells now 1-5.
St Louis is now 10-14 and in last place in the central division.
Milaukee is 16-9 and is currently in first place in the central.
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