AFC East Preview and Predictions

By: Mike Wagenman

New England Patriots

The Patriots are the epitome of a what an NFL franchise should be: great coaching, great ownership and management, excellence on the field, and smart and successful draft picks. The Patriots are among the Super Bowl favorites every year, and this year is no different thanks in part to their all-world quarterback Tom Brady, genius head coach Bill Belichick, and successful offseason. The Patriots are bringing back a more explosive offensive unit than the one that went 14-2 last season. They are looking to go farther in the playoffs than a divisional round exit to the Jets. The Pats bring back BenJarvus Green-Ellis, Kevin Faulk, Sammy Morris, and Danny Woodhead as far as running backs go, and drafted two more in California's Shane Vereen and LSU's Stevan Ridley. Both rookies have been impressive thus far in camp. New England also returns Aaron Hernandez and Rob Gronkowski, two second-year pass catching tight ends, and they drafted Marshall's Lee Smith to serve as a blocking tight end. Their receiving core is extremely deep as well. Wes Welker, Deion Branch, Julian Edelman, and Brandon Tate all return and will welcome in a true number one wideout in Chad Ochocinco. Six running backs, three tight ends, and five wide receivers, all as viable threats. Tom Brady also gets Logan Mankins back on the offensive line along with rookies Nate Solder from Colorado and Marcus Cannon from TCU. The one glaring hole for the Patriots last season was their defense, which, according to Jets linebacker Bart Scott, couldn't “stop a nose bleed.” I hate to say it, but Mr. “Can't Wait” had a point. The Patriots were ranked in the bottom five of most defensive categories, but they hope that rookie Ras-I Dowling from Virginia can sure up the secondary along with Pro Bowler Devin McCourty. New England brought in former Defensive Player of the Year Albert Haynesworth along with veteran Andre Carter to help Vince Wilfork penetrate the line up front. Jerod Mayo led the league in tackles last season, and if just one of the other young linebackers, preferably Jermaine Cunningham, can step up, the defense will drastically improve. The tough schedule (including the Jets twice, Chargers, Steelers, Eagles, and Colts) includes potent offenses that may be a bit tough to handle for the Pats defense. However, Tom Brady will get it done to bring home another AFC East title.

Season Prediction: 13-3, 1^st Place AFC East.

Leading Passer: Tom Brady

Leading Rusher: BenJarvus Green-Ellis

Leading Receiver: Wes Welker

Defensive Standout: Jerod Mayo (LB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Stevan Ridley (RB)

New York Jets

Not far behind the Patriots are the New York Jets. Gang Green always stands a legitimate chance to take down their opponents because they play an aggressive and impressive defensive game, led by head coach and defensive mastermind Rex Ryan. Although Ryan's antics may seem overdone and somewhat irritating, they do the trick to fire up the Jets. Quarterback Mark Sanchez has not proven himself as an elite quarterback yet, although he has won four road playoff games in two seasons. His regular season inconsistency (three more interceptions than touchdowns in his career) must change for the Jets to really consider themselves Super Bowl favorites. The Jets bring back much of the same squad from last season, especially on the defensive side of the ball which is key. Their defense is guaranteed to be a top 5, and their opponents' top receiver is sure to be stuck on Revis Island for most of the game. The Jets failed to address their one defensive problem from a year ago, however, and that was their pass rush. Most of their tackles in the backfield and their sacks were influenced by the secondary, whether it be from great coverage or from them blitzing. Ryan has faith that rookie lineman Muhammad Wilkerson from Temple can be a true force. He has to be, so he can replace Shaun Ellis and Kris Jenkins. The Jets offense was a bit lacking at times last season, thanks to a sub-par year from Shonn Greene. This season, LaDainian Tomlinson may show some age and may not be able to carry the load, so Greene must step up. Also, the offense relied mostly on quick slants and screens last season thanks to Sanchez's inaccuracy down the field. With the addition of 6'5” Plaxico Burress and slot reciever Derrick Mason, Sanchez has weapons to hit a few home runs. All in all, the Jets will be a good team and will snag a wild card spot. The loss of Brad Smith will hurt more than many people think, and the effortless attitude of Plaxico Burress may not sit well with Rex Ryan, but he usually finds a way to win, despite a somewhat difficult schedule.

Season Prediction: 11-5, 2^nd Place AFC East.

Leading Passer: Mark Sanchez

Leading Rusher: Shonn Greene

Leading Receiver: Santonio Holmes

Defensive Standout: David Harris (LB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Jeremy Kerley (WR/KR)

Buffalo Bills

Yes, Buffalo is somewhere other than last place. The Bills haven't been very good for quite a while. Jim Kelly, where are you? Anyway, the Bills will actually improve and are relying on the Harvard graduate Ryan Fitzpatrick again this season, but he does not have many places to throw the football. Stevie Johnson had a monster breakout season in 2010, but now Lee Evans is gone. So, with Johnson as a true number one receiver whom defenses are aware of, a lot of double coverages will be thrown his way. Roscoe Parrish will probably be assuming the duties of number two wideout, although he is much more effective in the slot or returning punts. Fred Jackson and C.J. Spiller will have to carry the load in the backfield, which, quite frankly, isn't all that bad. It's actually very workable. The addition of Brad Smith sparks some hope for Bills fans because he can do absolutely everything, and he did do absolutely everything against the Bills while a member of the rival Jets. He can throw, run, catch passes as a wide receiver, return kicks, and run the offense through the wildcat, not to mention he is very adept at all of those tasks. The Bills offensive line must improve, and that is the big x-factor. They have ample talent in Johnson, Parrish, Spiller, Jackson, and Smith, but those guys need room to operate and need time to get the football in their hands. Tackle Ed Wang is a real key. The Bills defense also must step up, so Buffalo used this offseason to acquire some man power to do so. Aside from rookie Marcell Dareus from Alabama, the Bills have a very makeshift defensive line. Their linebackers are very formidable however, especially now that they got rid of that disaster Aaron Maybin. Chris Kelsay is solid, although aging, and the same holds true for free agent signing Nick Barnett (former Packer). If those two can stay healthy, their veteran leadership can go a long way to helping the Bills win some games. Shawne Merriman has a lot to prove coming off countless injuries,but has shown glimpses of his Pro Bowl form from a few years ago with the Chargers. Linebacker Arthur Moats has emerged as the tackling machine, and a leader on the defense. Buffalo's secondary is actually very good. Jarius Byrd is a ballhawking free safety who intercepts a lot of deep balls, and they have four legitimate cornerbacks to help him. Leodis McKelvin, Terrence McGee, Drayton Florence, and rookie Aaron Williams have the ability to make big plays and lock down on some good receiving cores. The key for the defense is that they have to play together. They have a lot of pieces, but they must play together as a unit. Some age, some holes, and some lack of offense leave some question marks in Buffalo coming into the season, and make a playoff chance a bit of a long shot. A tough schedule also factors against the Bills, because I would love to put them at 7-9, but I just don't see them upsetting enough teams with a sub-par passing game. They will finish third in the AFC East.

Season Prediction: 6-10, 3^rd Place AFC East

Leading Passer: Ryan Fitzpatrick

Leading Rusher: C.J. Spiller

Leading Receiver: Stevie Johnson

Defensive Standout: Marcell Darius (DL)

Other/Surprise Standout: Shawne Merriman (LB)

Miami Dolphins

The Dolphins have been underachieving recently, much thanks to their quarterback Chad Henne. He seemingly has lost all confidence in himself and looks like a deer in headlights in the pocket. In 2011, that must change from the outset if the Dolphins want any chance at a winning season. Miami drafted Mike Pouncey from Florida and signed former Cowboy Marc Columbo to help All-Pro Jake Long protect Henne. They also drafted explosive Kansas State running back Daniel Thomas in the second round and acquired former Heisman Trophy winner and New Orleans Saints running back Reggie Bush to replace the departed Ronnie Brown and Ricky Williams in the backfield. Thomas will be the feature back, and the sky is the limit for him, but with Bush's NFL struggles, Thomas will not have that veteran presence to teach him the tricks of the trade. The wide open and wildcat style of Tony Sparano, however will allow Bush to create his own lanes, but nothing compared to what he did at USC. Henne has Pro Bowler Brandon Marshall, Davonne Bess, and Brian Hartline as wide receivers and Anthony Fasano as his tight end, four very nice targets, but the problem is that he is almost incapable of delivering the ball to them. The Miami defense, like New England's is suspect. Linebacker Cameron Wake emerged as a dominant pass rusher and run stuffer, and the resigning of Jason Taylor (yes, again) will only help Wake improve. Too bad Taylor is nothing like the animal he used to be. The defensive line is lacking and the secondary is average at best, two spots that will really demoralize the Dolphins this year. Having to play the Patriots and Jets twice each, as well as San Diego, Philadelphia, Kansas City, Dallas, and even the Giants, plus the fact that they went a baffling 1-7 at home last season, will prove to be too much to handle for the Fish. They will miss out on the playoffs for another year, which will end Chad Henne's reign under center in South Beach.

Season Prediction: 4-12, 4^th Place AFC East

Leading Passer: Chad Henne

Leading Rusher: Daniel Thomas

Leading Receiver: Brandon Marshall

Defensive Standout: Cameron Wake (LB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Davonne Bess (WR)

AFC North Preview and Predictions

By: Mike Wagenman

Baltimore Ravens

The Ravens are seemingly a staple in the AFC playoff picture year after year, but since their Super Bowl victory over the Giants in Super Bowl XXXV, Baltimore cannot seem to get over the hump en route to another championship. The Ravens are known for their stingy, hard hitting defense and efficient, but not extremely explosive offense. This year may be a bit different. The Ravens defense is still going to be one of the league's best, but the departure of starting safety Dawan Landry and cornerback Fabian Washington could prove to be huge losses. Defensive leaders Ray Lewis and Ed Reed are a bit up there in age, but still can make a big difference for Baltimore. The offense will become more explosive than in recent years. Joe Flacco is another year older, wiser, and more experienced, and he has some proven weapons. Anquan Boldin, Lee Evans, and rookie Torrey Smith are Flacco's main targets and are three players who are electric and quick. The signing of running back Ricky Williams gives the Ravens a great change up back to spell Ray Rice. Throw in the 31^st toughest schedule in the NFL (second easiest), and Baltimore will once again earn a spot in the AFC playoffs, as the AFC North champion.

Season Prediction: 12-4, 1^st Place AFC North.

Leading Passer: Joe Flacco

Leading Rusher: Ray Rice

Leading Receiver: Anquan Boldin

Defensive Standout: Terrell Suggs (LB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Ed Dickson (TE)

Pittsburgh Steelers

Pittsburgh is another team that seems to be in the AFC playoffs every season, along with Baltimore. These two teams create the Red Sox and Yankees of the NFL, as one always wins the division, and the other claims a wild card birth. The Steelers are known for their brick wall defense, but it is now the oldest defensive unit in the NFL. That age could provide the difference in an overtime game or a late season game, but they will still be skilled enough to shut down many of the league's great offenses. As long as safety Troy Polamalu is on the field, the Steelers have the upper hand. Pittsburgh's offensive skill players are poised to put up a lot of points. Two-time Super Bowl champion quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has Rashard Mendenhall, who ran for 1,273 yards a year ago, and two of the fastest receivers in football in Mike Wallace and Antonio Brown. Roethlisberger also has his two favorite target in Hines Ward and Heath Miller back, and a new veteran wideout, Jerricho Cotchery. The only concern for Pittsburgh is their offensive line. It was a problem last season, and they must do everything they can to protect Roethlisberger. The Steelers are the defending AFC champion, and will get the opportunity to repeat as they will make the playoffs again as a Wild Card.

Season Prediction: 11-5, 2^nd Place AFC North.

Leading Passer: Ben Roethlisberger

Leading Rusher: Rashard Mendenhall

Leading Receiver: Mike Wallace

Defensive Standout: Troy Polamalu (SS)

Other/Surprise Standout: Antonio Brown (WR)

Cleveland Browns

The Browns are coming off a 5-11 season, and to the naked eye, that may seem very disappointing. However, the 2010 Browns season was actually very encouraging and points to a bright future in Cleveland. The Browns hung around with the big boys in most of their games, beating New England and New Orleans, and forcing the Jets into overtime before losing with no time on the clock. Colt McCoy, emerged as a true NFL quarterback, and although his numbers may not be incredibly impressive, he showed poise and awareness in the pocket. Peyton Hillis took the league by storm and quickly became a number one running back and a fan favorite, as evidence by the fans voting him to the cover of Madden 12. And the league's best X-Factor Joshua Cribbs can break a huge gain in the blink of an eye on any given play. Cleveland's defense wasn't its usual swiss cheese self, as defensive backs Joe Haden and T.J. Ward emerged as players that quarterbacks must be wary of. The Browns have a very tough schedule, playing Baltimore and Pittsburgh twice each, and visiting Indianapolis. They also have three upstart teams in Seattle, Jacksonville, and Houston on their schedule. The Browns do not have much of a shot at the postseason, but they do have the incentive to perform at a high level to keep their jobs under President Mike Holmgren, who has promised radical change and improvement.

Season Prediction: 5-11, 3^rd Place AFC North.

Leading Passer: Colt McCoy

Leading Rusher: Peyton Hillis

Leading Receiver: Mohamed Massaquoi

Defensive Standout: Joe Haden (CB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Joshua Cribbs (WR/KR)

Cincinnati Bengals

It pains me to write about the Bengals. This season will be a mess inside Paul Brown Stadium. Quarterback Carson Palmer refuses to play for Cincinnati, and has threatened retirement. Running back Cedric Benson had yet another run-in with the law. Chad Ochocinco and Terrell Owens, Cincy's two leading receivers from a year ago, are no longer on the team. Finally, their defense is terrible, and it will only get worse after the loss of Jonathan Joseph, one of the league's best lockdown cornerbacks. Andy Dalton or Bruce Gradkowski, whoever wins the quarterback job, will be at the helm and will have to stand behind an offensive line that would have trouble blocking the Cincinnati Bearcats defensive line. Their receivers are young, and aside from A.J. Green, all seem to be slot receivers at best. Cedric Benson has been fantastic for the Bengals, however, and if he can stay consistent, he may help the development of Dalton. Nate Clements is the number one corner on the defense and Manny Lawson was signed during the offseason, two capable defensive players but not enough to stop very many offenses. The Bengals will have a poor season, and have zero chance of making the playoffs. Hopefully for them, Green and Dalton can emerge as stars.

Season Prediction: 3-13, 4^th Place AFC North.

Leading Passer: Andy Dalton

Leading Rusher: Cedric Benson

Leading Receiver: A.J. Green

Defensive Standout: Manny Lawson (LB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Jermaine Gresham (TE)

AFC West Preview and Predictions

By: Corey Donetz

Football is back and we here at The Tales Of 2 Cities will be doing breakdowns and predictions/projections of each NFL division until the regular season begins. Check back over the weekend for another preview.

San Diego Chargers

San Diego is well known for their slow starts, and last year was no different. However, last year was the first year that the slow start eventually caught up with them, leaving them out of the playoffs. The Chargers led the league in overall offense and defense last year, but overall had abysmal special teams play that ultimately led to the team’s demise. San Diego will have Vincent Jackson suited up from the outset this time around, and will benefit from a fairly easy schedule. A lot of weight will be put on the shoulders of running back Ryan Mathews, but Philip Rivers passing attack will allow him to get off some decent runs. Rivers has been one of the more consistent quarterbacks in the league and will lead the team back to the playoffs.

Season prediction: 11-5, 1^st Place AFC West.

Leading Passer: Philip Rivers

Leading Rusher: Ryan Mathews

Leading Receiver: Vincent Jackson

Defensive Standout: Eric Weddle (FS)

Other/Surprise Standout: Bob Sanders (SS)

Kansas City Chiefs

2010 was a good year for Kansas City as they won the division and made it to the playoffs. The Chiefs are led by a young offense led by quarterback Matt Cassell at the helm. Cassell benefits from having one of the leagues best rushing attacks with Jamaal Charles and Thomas Jones. The two backs combined for well over 2,000 rushing yards, which was led by Jamaal Charles near 1500 yards. Charles is one of the most explosive backs in the league, and is used very frequently in Kansas City’s passing attack as well. The Chiefs will certainly compete for the division title again this year, but San Diego just has too much fire power on both sides of the ball, and KC will come up a bit short.

Season Prediction 8-8, 2^nd Place AFC West.

Leading Passer: Matt Cassell

Leading Rusher: Jamaal Charles

Leading Receiver: Dwayne Bowe

Defensive Standout: Tamba Hali (DE/OLB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Jonathan Baldwin (WR)

Oakland Raiders

The Oakland Raiders are a good owner away from being a playoff caliber team. There’s no other way to slice it, Al Davis has done bad for this organization for a long, long time. Oakland has fielded a solid defense the last few years, and has also made strides on the offensive side of the ball, but the coaching and ownership inconsistency has dwelled on the team for a while. There are a few games on the schedule that can go either way for the Raiders; Oakland could possibly place second in the AFC West, and maybe squeeze into the playoffs as a Wild Card team, but to do that they’d have to win those games and as of right now I don’t believe that they will. As mentioned before, Oakland's defense has played well over the years, but lot of the team's success this season will depend on the play of Jason Campbell and whether or not Darren McFadden can stay healthy. If Campbell performs well and McFadden stays healthy Oakland can surprise a lot of people.

Season Prediction: 7-9, 3^rd Place AFC West

Leading Passer: Jason Campbell

Leading Rusher: Darren McFadden

Leading Receiver: Louis Murphy

Defensive Standout: Tyvon Branch (SS)

Other/Surprise Standout: Kevin Boss (TE)

Denver Broncos

There’s no other way to say it, if you finish with the second worst record, you had a bad year. Denver switched quarterbacks last year giving then rookie Tim Tebow the opportunity to get his feet wet and start a few games. While Tebow didn't play extremely well, he didn't play extremely poor either. In the offseason there was much discussion on whether who would be the team’s starting quarterback, Tebow or veteran Kyle Orton. Orton certainly provided a much better passing attack last year, and in my opinion would be the better option going into this season. However, offseason trade talks, and “The Tebow Factor” have created a quarterback controversy in Denver. Tebow was a 1^st round draft pick just a year ago, and although he may not be ready to be the starter, the fans may pressure ownership into putting him in that role. The Broncos will finish last in the division regardless of who the starting quarterback is due to question marks throughout the offensive and defensive side of the ball, but if the team starts Tebow the win total could possibly decrease even more. Kyle Orton gives the team the best chance to win, and it's hard to argue against it.

Season Prediction: 5-11, 4^th Place AFC West

Leading Passer: Kyle Orton

Leading Rusher: Knowshon Moreno

Leading Receiver: Eddie Royal

Defensive Standout: Elvis Dumervil (DE/OLB)

Other/Surprise Standout: Ryan Clady (LT)

The Tales of 8 Sluggers

By: Corey Donetz and Mike Wagenman

With the All Star Break upon us, The writers of The Tales Of 2 Cities have decided to have a little fun and participate in our own version of the Home Run Derby. The Derby teams were picked by two team captains, so we decided to divide the 8 participants and have a draft of our own to see who could pick the best team. We did a fixed order draft, Mike Wagenman (Team Wags) receiving the first pick via coin toss, and Corey Donetz receiving the 2nd pick (Team Danyaz).

The way it will work is simple; we will simply add the total of the homeruns per player, and add them up. The team with the most homeruns gets the victory and wins bragging rights on the other. Following the All Star Game tomorrow (Tuesday), we will have a recap of All Star weekend. Below are

The Draft went as follows:

1^st Round: Prince Fielder (Wags); David Ortiz (Danyaz)

2^nd Round: Jose Bautista (Wags); Matt Kemp (Danyaz)

3^rd Round: Robinson Cano (Wags); Adrian Gonzalez (Danyaz)

4^th Round: Matt Holliday (Wags); Rickie Weeks (Danyaz)

1^st Round Pick: Prince Fielder, 1B, Milwaukee Brewers (N.L. Captain)

With the first pick in the Home Run derby draft, I took the player who swings harder than almost anyone in the game today. The deciding factor between home run machines Jose Bautista and Prince Fielder at the first overall pick was the fact that Prince Fielder has Home Run Derby experience. Although Prince had just three dingers in 2007 leading to a first round exit, he took the Derby crown in 2009, blasting 23 bombs to defeat the Rangers' Nelson Cruz. His onslaught of not only power, but distance on his towering home run blasts has earned him the honor of being the National League captain in the new Home Run Derby format. Fielder will not have as much trouble as some other players might have hitting the ball out of Chase Field consistently, since he hits the ball so hard and far. He is a lock to put on a show and not disappoint. In just over six MLB seasons, Fielder already has 214 homers, including 50 in 2007. Prince has already unloaded 22 home runs this season as well, tied for fifth best in the majors. Fielder should be one of the main contenders to take home this year's title.

1^st Round Pick: David Ortiz, DH, Boston Red Sox (A.L. Captain)

The only player to record over 300 homeruns as a designated hitter, Ortiz looks to defend his 2010 Homerun Derby crown in 2011. This will be Ortiz’s fifth appearance in the Derby, making him the most experienced participant. Ortiz also has the most MLB experience as well as most career homeruns out of the Derby pack. He has played very well in the first half of the 2011 season, leading the Red Sox with 19 long balls. The experience and well known ability to hit the ball out of the yard give Ortiz a great chance to repeat as champion, and is why I chose him with my first pick.

2^nd Round Pick: Jose Bautista, RF/3B, Toronto Blue Jays (A.L.)

At the third overall pick, I was contemplating between one of two Red Sox: David Ortiz or Adrian Gonzalez. When Bautista fell into my lap, I had no choice but to pick him. Last year's regular season home run king, with 54, is off to another rapid start in 2011. He leads the major leagues with 31 home runs at the All-Star break, 6 more than his closest competitor, Curtis Granderson (25). Bautista is another hard swinger, something that is very high-risk, high-reward in a home run derby. It can generate much success in the first round or two, but come the end of round two or the final round, fatigue may start to set in. However, Bautista has become such a consistent and complete professional hitter that he should not have much problem with fatigue. “Joey Bats” has no home run derby experience, but has shown enough power over the last season and a half to give fans a reason to believe that he could contend for the title.

2^nd Round Pick: Matt Kemp, OF, Los Angeles Dodgers (N.L.)

Matt Kemp has arguably been the most consistent well-rounded player in the big leagues this season. Kemp leads the Dodgers in homeruns with 22, along with leading the team in batting average, runs scored, RBI, and stolen bases. Kemp uses his power all around the field, and in my opinion was the best right-handed power option available once Bautista was taken by my counterpart a pick earlier. This will be Kemp’s first appearance in the Derby, and he is also the best athlete in the Derby, so if he makes it into the later rounds, he will have more stamina than the other contestants. I believe Kemp is one of the favorites to make it to the finals.

3^rd Round Pick: Robinson Cano, 2B, New York Yankees (A.L.)

With the fifth pick, I decided to take a bit of a chance on Cano. He has one of the sweetest swings since Ken Griffey Jr., but really is not a true power hitter. He is definitely capable of hitting his share of home runs (29 last season; 130 career), but he is more of a line drive hitter who can spray the ball anywhere between the white lines. With 15 home runs already this year, Cano certainly is not leaving fans scratching their heads as to why he was asked to participate. He was also asked to participate in 2009, but minor nagging injuries and the decision to not chance the Derby ruining his swing kept him out of the competition. At Chase Field, though, Cano may have a bit of a tough time getting enough air under the ball, seeing as it is a larger ballpark. His line drive style of hitting may not bode well for him in this competition, but if he gets rolling he will have a chance of advancing past round one. He is a wild card pick in this Derby, and a pick that ensures me two hitters from each side of the plate.

3^rd Round Pick: Adrian Gonzalez, 1B, Boston Red Sox (A.L.)

Adrian Gonzalez has been the total package for Boston this season; he has hit the ball out of the park, driven runs in, hit for an outstanding average, and played Gold Glove caliber first base. However, when Gonzalez participated in the 2009 Homerun Derby he had 24 homeruns leading into the break with San Diego, but was eliminated after the first round after only hitting two homeruns in the first round of the Derby. Gonzalez is often regarded as a doubles hitter , which is probably why he fell to the 3^rd round,

but the potential the left handed slugger brings to the table was too much to pass on. He has gone deep 17 times this season, and will look to avenge his disappointing performance in 2009. Also, by selecting Gonzalez I was guaranteed to finish with 2 batters from each side of the plate.

4^th Round Pick: Matt Holliday, LF, St. Louis Cardinals (N.L.)

With my final selection, I had the choice between Holliday, and the Brewers' Rickie Weeks. Again, as was the case with my first pick, it came down to experience. Matt Holliday is participating in his third Derby, and this will be Weeks' first as a pro. Holliday finished in third place in 2007, followed by a fifth place finish in 2010. He has a very pure swing, which may not be made to blast baseballs out of Chase Field by the bunch, but is smooth enough to earn Holliday his share of longballs. With 14 home runs this season, and 194 for his career Holliday has shown a consistent ability to hit the ball out of the park. With the last pick, it could be much worse given the fields in past contests. Don't be surprised to see Holliday moving on to round two, although it may be a bit of a long shot.

4^th Round Pick: Rickie Weeks, 2B, Milwaukee Brewers (N.L.)

Weeks was selected to the N.L. team by his teammate Prince Fielder. Weeks is one of the best power hitting second basemen in the game, and provides power from the right side of the plate. Weeks will be making his first appearance in the Homerun Derby, bringing his 17 homeruns this season with him. Although I didn’t really have a choice in the 4^th round as Weeks was basically given to me, I believe Weeks could be a sleeper in the Derby, often being overlooked due to the other big name participants. If he can pull the ball consistently and drive it over the shortest part in Chase Field, the left field corner, he has a good chance to be crowned Home Run King.

Prince Fielder, after his 2009 Home Run Derby title.

David Ortiz, after winning the 2010 Home Run Derby

Angels' Top Fish Ascends To Majors

By: Corey Donetz

Mike Trout has officially been called up to the major leagues. Trout has dominated every level of the minor leagues, and will now get a shot to perform at the big league level.

The 19-year-old New Jersey native, who has spent the majority of 2011 in double-A, has skipped triple-A to replace the injured Peter Bourjos in the Angels' outfield. The 6’1’’ phenom hit .324 while hitting nine homeruns, 11 triples, 12 doubles, and stealing 28 bases in 75 games in double-A will get the starting nod in centerfield for the Angels tonight against the Seattle Mariners.

Trout was drafted 25^th overall in the 2009 amateur draft, which was certainly a steal for Los Angeles. He is widely regarded as the top prospect in the minor leagues (some say Bryce Harper is), but most people wouldn’t have expected him to make it to the major’s so soon. Harper is just over a year younger then Trout, as Trout will turn 20 in 30 days, while Harper wont turn 19 until October.  Trout and Harper have similar playing styles since Harper made the switch to play in the outfield. Harper is believed to have a little more power, but Trout provides more range in the outfield, and is thought to be more matured as a player on and off the field.

At the young age of 19, Trout is the first teenager to reach the MLB level since Justin Upton of Arizona in 2007. It is unclear how much time Trout will get in the major leagues, with a lot of that depending on Bourjos’ health, but it is definitely good for him to get his feet wet. If Trout performs anywhere near as well as he did in the minors, it will be hard to send him back down regardless of Bourjos’ health. Los Angeles doesn’t exactly have youth around the outfield with Torii Hunter, Vernon Wells, and Bobby Abreu, so it’ll be interesting to see how the Angels front office handles Trout. There is only one thing that I know for sure, and that is that Trout can certainly play at a high level, and is certainly fun to watch. Stay tuned. 

MLB Surprises

Top 5 surprises of the 1^st half of the MLB Season

By: Corey Donetz

5: Jose Reyes; .354 AVG (1^st) , 124 hits (1^st), 22 doubles, 15 triples (1^st), 32 RBI, 30 stolen bases (2^nd).

Reyes couldn’t have picked a better time to have an MVP type season. In a contract year, Reyes leads the Major Leagues in batting average, triples, and hits, while ranking second in stolen bases and third in runs scored. Reyes has led the Mets to an above .500 record, and is widely regarded as the best/most exciting player in the league this year. Good play from Reyes isn’t a surprise, but not many could’ve predicted these types of numbers from Reyes.

4: Josh Beckett; 7-3, 106 IP, 2.12 ERA (2^nd), 0.906 WHIP (2^nd), 91 K’s.

If I were to tell you Beckett would have the 2^nd best ERA on his own team before the season started, you probably wouldn’t have believed me, let alone have the 2^nd best ERA in the American League. Beckett has allowed just 5.5 hits per nine, which ranks best in the American League.  He has been the constant for the shaky Boston rotation so far. Beckett’s play has kept the Red Sox within striking distance of the New York Yankees for 1^st place in the A.L. East, and to lead the Wild Card race. He was named to the 2011 All-Star team for his play. Beckett has relied heavily on his 2-seam fastball, which has been a key to the strikeout totals, and limiting base runners, allowing less than one per inning (0.906 WHIP). Staying healthy will be key for Beckett as the season continues following the all-star break.

3: Freddy Garcia/Bartolo Colon;

Garcia: 7-6, 92 IP, 3.13 ERA, 1.271 WHIP, 57 K’s.

Colon: 6-3, 84.1 IP, 2.88 ERA, 1.055 WHIP, 78 K’s.

Coming into the season one of the biggest question marks for the New York Yankees was the back end of their rotation. Colon and Garcia have combined to go 13-9, with more consistency than anyone could’ve imagined. The two pitchers have found the fountain of youth and have given the Yankees a solidified rotation behind ace C.C. Sabathia leading them to a first place record. Aside from a short D.L stint from Colon, the two have stayed healthy for the most part, which is another added surprise to Yankees fans. If Colon and Garcia can keep this up, along with stellar play the Yankees have gotten around the diamond, a 1^st place finish seems pretty evident for New York.

2: Cleveland Indians; 1^st Place, 45-39, 25-15 (Home), 20-24 (Road).

The Tribe has led the A.L. Central for essentially the entire season thus far, and has succeeded greatly and appears to be a playoff contender during a time when many thought the team would be rebuilding. Cleveland’s offense is anchored by shortstop Asdrubal Cabrera, and the resurgence of DH Travis Hafner. Cabrera is hitting .292 and leads the team with 14 homeruns, 49 RBI, 100 hits, 22 doubles, three triples, and 12 stolen bases. The MVP caliber season led to Cabrera being named to the A.L All-Star team. Cleveland’s bullpen has been a pleasant surprise as well; led by closer Chris Perez who is 20 for 21 in save opportunities posting an impressive 2.30 ERA. Josh Tomlin leads the tribe with ten wins, while Justin Masterson has a 2.85 ERA, going 6-6 through season’s 1^st half. Cleveland has a slim lead over Detroit in the A.L Central, it will be interesting to see if they can keep it up after the all-star break and close out the division as the season winds down.

1: Pittsburgh Pirates; 2^nd Place, 45-41, 21-20 (Home), 24-21 (Road).

The Pirates are led by a plethora of young talent, with the spotlight on centerfielder Andrew McCutchen. McCutchen has a .291 average, 12 homeruns, 46 RBI, and 15 stolen bases. He leads the team in average, homeruns, runs scored, stolen bases, and is second in RBI. Perhaps the biggest surprise within the Pirates has been their pitching as a whole. All-Star closer Joel Hanrahan has gone 25 for 25 in save opportunities, posting an incredible 0.93 ERA. Jeff Karstens has gone 7-4 with a 2.55 ERA, while Kevin Correia and Charlie Morton have won 11 and 7 games, respectively. Pittsburgh is 45-41, just 1.5 games behind the Cardinals for 1^st place. It’s been quite some time since the Pirates were relevant, and with the N.L Central still wide open, they have a chance at winning the division if their young players can keep winning. The second half story for the Pirates will be if their pitching can remain as consistent as it was in the first half of the season.

NBA Draft Recap (V.2)

By: Corey Donetz

It's now two days after the NBA Draft, all of the sports analysts have given their best/worst, as has my counterpart, so now I’ll give mine. As I mentioned in my mock draft, this draft lacked “superstar” talent. Obviously it’s easier to do better if you have more picks right? Wrong. For some franchises that just gave them more opportunities to make bad picks.  I agree with two of my partner’s decisions for best/worst, but have a few different views for the others.

The Best (In descending order):

Denver Nuggets: (See below post).

Houston Rockets: On draft day the Rockets were able to acquire four players that can make an immediate impact. They drafted international center Nikola Mirotic, but then shipped him, Brad Miller, and a future first round pick to Minnesota in exchange for Jonny Flynn and the T-Wolves 20^th pick, Donatas Motiejunas. Flynn, who became expendable for Minnesota with the Ricky Rubio signing, has the potential to be a franchise point guard. Along with the acquisitions of those two, Houston also drafted one of the more talented players in the draft in Kansas forward Marcus Morris, and one of the most underrated players in the draft, Florida’s Chandler Parsons.

Utah Jazz: The Jazz were able to get arguably the most talented big man in the draft in Enes Kanter, and one of the best value picks with Alec Burks at #12. Utah was able to address not only needs with their picks, but also was able to get the best available player in doing so. Burks can share time at the point with Devin Harris, while also playing shooting guard, and even some small forward if he is needed. Kanter will take some of the pressure down low off of Al Jefferson by allowing him to obtain easier looks and also providing a big body on defense.

The Worst (In descending order):

New York Knicks (See below post).

Los Angeles Lakers: The Lakers draft would’ve been described as a bad draft unless they made a trade to upgrade their team by adding a superstar, or a player who could make an immediate impact. The Lake Show did not make that trade. Darius Morris was taken with the 41st pick, Andrew Goudelock was taken with the 46^th overall pick, and their late second round picks of Chukwudiebere Maduabum and Ater Mojik left many scratching their heads. Although Maduabum has since been traded for a future second round pick, the Lakers simply didn’t make any improvement this draft that will impact their season. With all this being said, if the Lakers are able to include Morris, Mojik and/or Goudelock in a trade for an impact player, they will no longer be mentioned as a worst. However, if they trade Bynum/Gasol they will regret not drafting a big man with the 46^th pick, passing on Keith Benson.  

Charlotte Bobcats: The Bobcats had two of the top 10 picks, and in my mind made the wrong decisions on their picks. Charlotte took international big man Bismack Biyombo with their #7 pick (acquired from Sacramento), but not only is Biyombo a raw talent, but he also has a buyout issue. While the buyout issue may not matter if the lockout does indeed occur, the Bobcats should’ve gone another route with this pick. They would’ve had a steal by selecting Kentucky guard, Brandon Knight (who was drafted one pick later by Detroit). If they drafted Knight, they could’ve still went with Kemba Walker at #9 playing Walker at point and Knight at shooting guard, or went with Klay Thompson, Jimmer Fredette, or Marcus Morris. By taking Walker/Biyombo and trading Stephen Jackson the Bobcats have an abysmal offense that will undoubtedly be a bottom dweller this upcoming season.

Best Steals of the Draft:

#8: Brandon Knight:

#12: Alec Burks (Utah Jazz)

#26: Jordan Hamilton (Drafted by Mavericks, traded to Nuggets)

#44 Charles Jenkins (Golden State Warriors)

#48: Keith Benson (Atlanta Hawks)

#60: Isaiah Thomas (Sacramento Kings)

Worst Picks of the Draft (Based on team who selected/acquired player & pick the player was drafted):

#7: Bismack Biyombo (Charlotte Bobcats)

#28: Norris Cole (Drafted by Bulls, traded to Heat)

#45: Josh Harrellson (Drafted by Hornets, traded to Knicks)

#58: Ater Mojik (Los Angeles Lakers)

2011 NBA Mock Draft

By: Corey Donetz

The 2011 Draft Class is said to be weak, but there are certainly players in the draft that can make impacts in the league. Since there are a lack of "superstar" potential players, I believe there will be fair amount of trades in this year's draft. Teams who may be likely to trade their pick are marked with two asterisks (**). Possible Targets are listed because of possible trades/alternate picks that might shake up a few picks.

Cleveland Cavaliers - Possible Targets: Kyrie Irving, Derrick Williams, Enes Kanter.

1st Overall Pick: Guard Kyrie Irving (Duke) 

**Minnesota Timberwolves - Possible Targets: Derrick Williams, Enes Kanter.

2nd Overall Pick: Forward Derrick Williams (Arizona)

Utah Jazz - Possible Targets: Derrick Williams, Enes Kanter, Brandon Knight, Jonas Valanciunas.

3rd Overall Pick: Center Enes Kanter (Kentucky)

Cleveland Cavaliers - Possible Targets: Derrick Williams, Enes Kanter, Jonas Valanciunas, Brandon Knight, Tristan Thompson, Jan Vesely.

**4th Overall Pick: Center Jonas Valanciunas (Lithuania)

Toronto Raptors - Possible Targets: Brandon Knight, Jonas Valanciunas, Kemba Walker, Jan Vesely.

5th Overall Pick: Guard Brandon Knight (Kentucky)

Washington Wizards - Possible Targets: Brandon Knight, Jan Vesely, Tristan Thompson, Kawhi Leonard.

6th Overall Pick: Forward Jan Vesely (Czech Republic)

Charlotte Bobcats - Possible Targets: Brandon Knight, Kemba Walker, Jan Vesely, Tristan Thompson, Kawhi Leonard.

7th Overall Pick: Forward  Tristan Thompson (Texas) 

**Detroit Pistons - Possible Targets: Brandon Knight, Kemba Walker, Jan Vesely, Tristan Thompson, Kawhi Leonard.

8th Overall Pick: Forward Bismack Miyombo (Congo)

Charlotte Bobcats - Possible Targets: Brandon Knight, Jan Vesely, Kemba Walker Marcus Morris, Klay Thompson, Alec Burks, Jimmer Fredette.

9th Overall Pick: Guard Kemba Walker (UConn)

Sacramento Kings - Possible Targets: Kemba Walker, Marcus Morris, Klay Thompson, Alec Burks.

10th Overall Pick: Forward Kawhi Leonard (San Diego State)

Golden State Warriors - Possible Targets: Klay Thompson, Marcus Morris, Alec Burks, Chris Singleton.

11th Overall Pick: Guard Klay Thompson (Washington State)

**Utah Jazz - Possible Targets: Kemba Walker, Klay Thompson, Marcus Morris, Alec Burks, Jimmer Fredette.

12th Overall Pick: Guard Jimmer Fredette (BYU)

Phoenix Suns - Possible Targets: Alec Burks, Marcus Morris, Markieff Morris, Chris Singleton, Bismack Biyombo.

13th Overall Pick: Guard Alec Burks (Colorado)

**Houston Rockets - Possible Targets: Jimmer Fredette, Markieff Morris, Chris Singleton.

14th Overall Pick: Forward Chris Singleton (Florida State)

Indiana Pacers - Possible Targets: Iman Shumpert, Markieff Morris, Chris Singleton, Bismack Biyombo, Nikola Vucevic, Donatas Motiejunas.

15th Overall Pick: Forward Markieff Morris (Kansas)

Philadelphia 76ers - Possible Targets: Bismack Biyombo, Nikola Vucevic, Donatas Motiejunas.

16th Overall Pick: Forward Marcus Morris (Kansas)

**New York Knicks - Possible Targets: Jimmer Fredette, Iman Shumpert, Nikola Vucevic, Donatas Motiejunas.

17th Overall Pick: Forward Kenneth Faried (Moorehead State)

Washington Wizards - Possible Targets: Jordan Hamilton, Donatas Motiejunas.

18th Overall Pick: Forward Donatas Motiejunas (Lithuania)

Milwaukee Bucks - Possible Targets: Jordan Hamilton, Iman Shumpert, Marshon Brooks, Tobias Harris, Kenneth Faried.

19th Overall Pick: Forward Jordan Hamilton (Texas)

**Minnesota Timberwolves - Possible Targets: Jordan Hamilton, Tobias Harris, Kenneth Faried.

20th Overall Pick: Center Nikola Vucevic (USC)

Portland Trail Blazers - Possible Targets: Kenneth Faried, Tobias Harris, Marshon Brooks, Iman Shumpert.

21st Overall Pick: Guard Iman Shumpert (Georgia Tech)

Denver Nuggets: - Possible Targets: Tobias Harris, Kenneth Faried, Trey Thompkins.

22nd Overall Pick: Forward Tobias Harris (Tennessee)

Houston Rockets - Possible Targets: Charles Jenkins, Tobias Harris, Trey Thompkins, Marshon Brooks, Nikola Mirotic.

23rd Overall Pick: Guard Marshon Brooks (Providence)

**Oklahoma City Thunder - Possible Targets: Trey Thompkins, Kyle Singler, Jeremy Tyler, Nikola Mirotic, Davis Bertans.

24th Overall Pick: Forward Davis Bertans (Latvia)

Boston Celtics - Possible Targets: Reggie Jackson, Jeremy Tyler, Charles Jenkins, Darius Morris, Nolan Smith.

25th Overall Pick: Guard Reggie Jackson (Boston College)

Dallas Mavericks - Possible Targets: Nikola Mirotic, Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, Reggie Jackson, Justin Harper, Tyler Honeycutt, Charles Jenkins.

26th Overall Pick: Guard Nolan Smith (Duke)

New Jersey Nets - Possible Targets: Trey Thompkins, Nikola Mirotic, Jeremy Tyler, Reggie Jackson, Tyler Honeycutt, Justin Harper.

27th Overall Pick: Forward Trey Thompkins (Georgia)

**Chicago Bulls - Possible Targets: Tyler Honeycutt, Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, Norris Cole, Charles Jenkins, Davis Bertans.

28th Overall Pick: Guard Charles Jenkins (Hoftsra)

San Antonio Spurs - Possible Targets: Nikola Mirotic, Tyler Honeycutt, Davis Bertans, Jeremy Tyler.

29th Overall Pick: Center Nikola Mirotic (Montenegro)

**Chicago Bulls - Possible Targets: Jeremy Tyler, Tyler Honeycutt, Kyle Singler, Nolan Smith, Norris Cole, Davis Bertans.

30th Overall Pick: Forward Tyler Honeycutt (UCLA)

*Check back on Friday for the draft recap as well as draft steals, reaches, snubs, analysis, and much more.

Fish Out Of Water

By: Corey Donetz

The 2-1 loss handed to the Marlins by in-state rival Tampa Bay extended the struggling Fish’s losing streak to 10 straight losses. Florida has only one win in June, posting an abysmal 1-18 record this month. The team has had losses off the field as well with the departures of hitting coach John Mallee and manager Edwin Rodriguez. The executives of the Marlins decided to hire former ESPN analyst and former big leaguer Eduardo Perez as new hitting coach, and to re-hire 80-year old Jack McKeon. For those who are unaware, McKeon was the manager of the 2003 Marlins team that won the World Series; he was named Manager of the Year for his efforts.

The exodus of Edwin Rodriguez wasn’t taken well in the Marlin’s clubhouse as shortstop and one of the faces of franchise, Hanley Ramirez, was not happy to say the least. Ramirez wasn’t shy about standing up for his now ex-manager, but even he wasn’t enough to keep Rodriguez around. The Chicago Tribune caught up with Ramirez to speak on the matter, "When we do good, people look at us,'' Ramirez said. "It's like Ozzie [Guillen] says, 'Yeah, when the team is winning you have to give credit to the players and when they're losing they want to fire me.' No, that's not how it [should be].”

Although they are over 12 games out of 1^st place behind the Phillies in the N.L. East, playoff hopes remain alive, as they are only 7 ½ games behind in the Wild Card race despite the team’s dreadful June. With playoff hopes still in reach, a change was definitely needed, regardless as to who is at fault for the bad play. The injury bug has obviously affected the team’s play, but injuries affect every team’s play so that can never be used as an excuse. To put it simply, a baseball executive cannot sit back and watch their team win one game in a month, lose 10 straight (It wasn’t at 10 when Rodriguez was let go, but just for the sake of being current), and not do anything about it; especially when said team is already a bottom dweller as far as game attendance goes.

However, what’s done is done, so Ramirez and the rest of his teammates will have to move on and play under the helm of McKeon. McKeon is not your typical 80 year old, he is said to have the energy of a 25 year old and the heavily respected two-time NL Manager of the Year will bring that energy back to Florida along with his 1011 career wins and his ’03 World Series ring as he hopes to bring the Fish back to their winning ways. He has a ton of young talent to work with, and although it doesn’t seem likely that his team will contend this season, there is still hope in sunshine state.

The Fightin’ Fish will have to finish the season strong, and once ace Josh Johnson comes off of the disabled list we can get a feel of what McKeon’s Marlins can do. If there is one thing that baseball has taught us (especially as far as standings in the N.L. East are concerned), anything is possible. Just ask the Mets.

Roaring Rory

By: Corey Donetz

At the young age of 22, Golf prodigy Rory McIlroy is just what the golf world needs after the Tiger Woods debacle. He is fan friendly and loved worldwide - much like Tiger once was. McIlroy is on the steady upswing climbing up golf’s rankings, and there looks to be no reason why he shouldn’t soon be the world’s #1 golfer. Rory certainly backed this up with his record setting display at this weekend’s U.S. Open, but before we give the Rory the crown, we mustn’t forget his predecessor, Mr. Eldrick Tont “Tiger” Woods.

Ask yourself this question – Where would golf be right now if Tiger Woods never picked up a golf club? The answer will obviously never be known, but hypothetically speaking it is quite interesting to think where the game would be. Although Tiger’s acts off the golf course are inexcusable, it is incredibly hard to argue that he is not the most influential golfer to step foot on the links. Tiger began his professional golf career about 15 years ago in August of 1996; he won his first major less than a year later in April at The Masters. Tiger went on to be named PGA Tour Rookie of the Year, broke 20 records in the 1997 season, and after just 42 weeks of being a professional Tiger was ranked the world’s #1 golfer.

Tiger’s reign of dominance lasted well over a decade, being the highest paid athlete over that span (and still currently ranks as the highest paid athlete), winning a total 71 PGA Tour events which is 3^rd all time, just two behind Jack Nicklaus and 11 behind Sam Snead, whom played 11 and 16 more years respectively. Tiger is also 2^nd all time with 14 Major’s won, which is just four behind Nicklaus.

We all know the controversy that happened next to Tiger off the golf course, but when you put that on the backburner for a moment and put Tiger’s supremacy in perspective, it makes it all the more hard to imagine where and what gold would be without him. However all good things must come to an end, and Tiger is no exception.

With Tiger’s reign seemingly coming to an end, or perhaps already ended, it is time for a new star to rise up and take over the golf world’s spotlight. That spotlight is still currently vacant, but Rory can fill it if he continues to play up to par (pun intended). It is up to him whether or not he will continue to live up to the expectations, but if this weekend was a sign of things to come, the future looks very bright for both Rory McIlroy and the golf world.