San Diego Padres: 10-17
Philadelphia Phillies: 15-12
Chris Young (1-2 3.77 ERA, 1-1 1.46 ERA)
Jamie Moyer (1-1 4.05 ERA, 7-6 4.41 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Giles RF 1/11, .091/.231/.091
Iguchi 2B 1/11, .091/.091/.091
Kouzmanoff 3B 3/6, .500/.500/.667
Gonzalez 1B 3/9, 2 HR, 4 RBI, .333/.300/1.000
Greene SS 1/11, .091/1.67/.091
Huber LF N/A
Hairston CF 0/1
Bard C 5/13, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .385/.429/.692
Young P
Werth CF N/A
Dobbs 3B 1/8, .125/.222/.125
Utley 2B 2/5, .400/.400/.600
Howard 1B 0/0, .000/1.000/.000
Burrell LF 2/6, 2 RBI, .333/.333/.333
Jenkins RF 1/2, 1 RBI, .500/.500/1.500
Ruiz C 0/3
Bruntlett SS 0/1
Moyer P
Chris Young has done very well against the Phillies in his career. He threw a CG SHO last year, and the priority tonight has to be putting runs up on the board. The fact is, San Diego's offense stinks. They're last in BA, R, OBP, SLG, and obviously OPS. This can't just be Petco. They cannot hit. If the Phillies score 4 runs, it's unlikely San Diego can manage to beat them.
Tonight is Jamie Moyer bobblehead tonight. The dude isn't a good pitcher anymore, but it's great that the Phillies have an appreciation night to him. Being a local guy, it's great that the team recognizes how much he means to them and the community.
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Eastern Semis Game 4: Canadiens at Flyers (1-2)
Carey Price v. Martin Biron
The Flyers just managed to hang on Monday night to defeat Montreal 3-2. The Flyers scored the first three, but a curious five minute major issued to Derian Hatcher allowed the Canadiens to score two power play goals to cut the deficit to one. The Flyers were outplayed for much of the game, and they're pretty fortunate to be ahead in the series.
Martin Biron stole a game for the Flyers. They were outshot by 20, and he made some key saves to preserve the lead. He's beating my expectations in the postseason.
The Flyers need to get more pucks on net in tonight's game. It's great that they were able to score three goals on only 14 shots, but that's not going to cut it more often than not. Carey Price is losing his confident, and if they keep hitting him with shots over and over again, he's going to blow up.
Except for the two PP goals on the same penalty in the last game, the penalty killing has been very good. They killed off a full 5 on 3 (also pretty curious) and several other Montreal power plays. The Canadiens' PP has been off the mark in the playoffs, but it's a unit that still has to be respected. It wasn't an accident that they were #1 in the league; they fire a lot of shots and have a lot of skilled players.
Bill Meltzer just got his preview up.
Ed Moran reports that Mike Knuble will be back tonight. Steve Downie will probably return to the press box.
The Flyers just managed to hang on Monday night to defeat Montreal 3-2. The Flyers scored the first three, but a curious five minute major issued to Derian Hatcher allowed the Canadiens to score two power play goals to cut the deficit to one. The Flyers were outplayed for much of the game, and they're pretty fortunate to be ahead in the series.
Martin Biron stole a game for the Flyers. They were outshot by 20, and he made some key saves to preserve the lead. He's beating my expectations in the postseason.
The Flyers need to get more pucks on net in tonight's game. It's great that they were able to score three goals on only 14 shots, but that's not going to cut it more often than not. Carey Price is losing his confident, and if they keep hitting him with shots over and over again, he's going to blow up.
Except for the two PP goals on the same penalty in the last game, the penalty killing has been very good. They killed off a full 5 on 3 (also pretty curious) and several other Montreal power plays. The Canadiens' PP has been off the mark in the playoffs, but it's a unit that still has to be respected. It wasn't an accident that they were #1 in the league; they fire a lot of shots and have a lot of skilled players.
Bill Meltzer just got his preview up.
Ed Moran reports that Mike Knuble will be back tonight. Steve Downie will probably return to the press box.
Monday, April 28, 2008
Eastern Semis Game 3: Canadiens at Flyers (1-1)
Carey Price v. Martin Biron
Across the league's four playoff series, this is the only one even at one. Out west, Detroit and Dallas have dominated Colorado and on this side of the cost, Pittsburgh has taken control of the Rangers. With the way these two teams played in round one, everyone should have been expecting a tight series.
Martin Biron was much better in game two. He made some incredible saves and really closed the door on Montreal when they began threatening.
How have the Flyers been able to generally control play so far? Montreal was the better team in the regular season, and they proved it head-to-head. However, most objective observers would say that the Flyers have been better in this series. One reason has to be the quick starts. They've gotten off to 2-0 leads early in each game, and although they coughed it up in game one, it can't hurt to force a team to play catch up like that.
A lot of people still bring up the possibility of Gagne coming back if the Flyers keep advancing. Please, let's not do this again. Let him sit in the press box and enjoy the games with street clothes on. He's hurt. He's had three concussions this season, and he can't come back. Is the team really struggling that much for goals that they need to risk the franchise player's career? Come on. Let him get right, and we'll see him in training camp in September.
Bill Meltzer's better preview is here.
This has nothing to do with the Flyers, but I want to talk about the Pittsburgh/New York series anyway. In the regular season, the Rangers matched up pretty well against the Pens. Their defensive system generally held them in check, and it looked like it could potentially be a challenging series for one of the East's best teams. In the first game, the Rangers came out strong and got some early goals. Pittsburgh battled back and eventually won 5-4. I said to some others that the Rangers cannot win if they keep playing that way. That's not their style, and they won't be able to outscore Pittsburgh in a seven game series. On Sunday, they tried a low scoring affair, and now they're down 2-0. I know they've both been one goal games, but nothing the Rangers are trying has worked.
Across the league's four playoff series, this is the only one even at one. Out west, Detroit and Dallas have dominated Colorado and on this side of the cost, Pittsburgh has taken control of the Rangers. With the way these two teams played in round one, everyone should have been expecting a tight series.
Martin Biron was much better in game two. He made some incredible saves and really closed the door on Montreal when they began threatening.
How have the Flyers been able to generally control play so far? Montreal was the better team in the regular season, and they proved it head-to-head. However, most objective observers would say that the Flyers have been better in this series. One reason has to be the quick starts. They've gotten off to 2-0 leads early in each game, and although they coughed it up in game one, it can't hurt to force a team to play catch up like that.
A lot of people still bring up the possibility of Gagne coming back if the Flyers keep advancing. Please, let's not do this again. Let him sit in the press box and enjoy the games with street clothes on. He's hurt. He's had three concussions this season, and he can't come back. Is the team really struggling that much for goals that they need to risk the franchise player's career? Come on. Let him get right, and we'll see him in training camp in September.
Bill Meltzer's better preview is here.
This has nothing to do with the Flyers, but I want to talk about the Pittsburgh/New York series anyway. In the regular season, the Rangers matched up pretty well against the Pens. Their defensive system generally held them in check, and it looked like it could potentially be a challenging series for one of the East's best teams. In the first game, the Rangers came out strong and got some early goals. Pittsburgh battled back and eventually won 5-4. I said to some others that the Rangers cannot win if they keep playing that way. That's not their style, and they won't be able to outscore Pittsburgh in a seven game series. On Sunday, they tried a low scoring affair, and now they're down 2-0. I know they've both been one goal games, but nothing the Rangers are trying has worked.
Saturday, April 26, 2008
Blogging the NFL Draft
I'm going to do brief pick by pick analysis in the first round and a little bit into the second. We'll see what happens.
31. New York Giants: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami- They need depth in the secondary, and after losing Gibril Wilson in the secondary, Phillips is a good pick. Miami's streak stays alive.
Dinner.
30. New York Jets (from GB): Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue- It seems to me that the Jets don't know what the draft is about. Or whatever Kiper said in that timeless Jets' drafting mishaps video. I think I'm close.
I don't think I mentioned the Eagles trade yet. They moved one of their 4th rounders for Lorenzo Booker from Miami. He may have potential as a kick returner, so it's a good deal.
29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND): Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina- I'm not quite sure how he's going to fit in with their defense. I think they could've done better. They have to be considering taking a receiver in the second round.
28. Seattle Seahawks (from DAL): Lawrence Jackson, DE, Southern California- I wasn't sure if they would take an end since I assumed they were happy with Tapp and Kerney. However, Jackson was a pretty good player at USC, and they needed DL depth.
27. San Diego Chargers: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona- They needed another corner, and they got one. Cason is another guy who would've been drafted higher had he come out a year earlier, but he's in a good spot. San Diego is a good team, and he should be able to play right away.
26. Houston Texans (from JAX via BAL): Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech- It's been a big need for them since the franchise started. It's too bad it took them several years to figure it out.
Seattle picked up a couple second day picks to move down.
25. Dallas Cowboys (from SEA): Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida- Why did he have to go here? Jenkins was going to be my guy, and I wanted to get a jersey. Now I can't. Damn.
24. Tennessee Titans: Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina- This was a pretty big reach, but NFLDC actually called this as a possibility. He's got awesome speed, and they can set up a very good one two punch with Lendale White. They might've been able to get him earlier though.
Maybe Tennessee will go Sweed here because of the Texas connection.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois- Very good pick for Pittsburgh. They wanted to get a compliment to Willie Parker, and Rashard has some power to finish runs. It's go time.
Apparently the Bobcats hired Larry Brown. I don't know what they're going to do. They have so many young players, he almost has to play some of them.
22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE): Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas- This was so predictable.
21. Atlanta Falcons (from WSH): Sam Baker, OT, Southern California- This may be a bit of a reach, but they want a pass protector for Ryan. His stock was sky high last year, and it dipped a little when he stayed for his senior season. Good pick for Atlanta.
20. Tampa Buccaneers: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas- If they wanted a corner, I'm surprised they didn't take the local kid in Jenkins. However, Talib will probably fit in their system very well. Some think of him as a safety, which means he's physical. That's what the Bucs need in their corners.
The Eagles got next year's first rounder and picked up a second. I guess it's okay. We don't need more picks though.
19. Carolina Panthers (from PHI): Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh- I'm not quite sure what the Eagles are thinking. Good pick for Carolina.
18. Baltimore Ravens (from HOU): Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware- Johnny, come on. Not the way to start your Baltimore coaching career.
17. Detroit Lions (from KC): Gosder Cherilius, OT, Boston College- In Mike Martz' system, their OL was exposed as very weak. In a new system, they would still be weak, but if they're going to commit to a running game, this is a good place to start. He's a mauler that will open up holes.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State- Another disappointment for Eagles fans. He has very good potential, and his return game made him interesting to Philadelphia. He didn't play against tough competition, and he's going to have to make some big adjustments to survive.
Lions got a 3rd and 5th rounder in addition to the #17 pick.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (from DET): Brandon Albert, OL, Virginia- Very disappointing for Eagles fans. This was the guy that the Eagles might've wanted, since he's most likely to stay at LT in the pros. Good move for KC to begin rebuilding their Offensive Line.
Chiefs traded up here. Not good.
14. Chicago Bears: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt- As I mentioned in my mock draft, Offensive Line was a problem for them. Cedric Benson needs help, and their offense is just not good. There are some injury concerns with him, but he's a smart guy that should become a good player.
13. Carolina Panthers: Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon- I don't get it. I think they had bigger needs to address, and I don't think he's the best RB on the board either. They could use some help in the trenches, and that's where games are won. I don't think they should be giving up on DeAngelo Williams already.
12. Denver Broncos: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State- The Broncos have a very good system in place, but all of a sudden, they're running out of guys to execute it. He'll be stepping into a similar system, and he should be able to start right away.
11. Buffalo Bills: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy- He maybe slipped a little bit, and the Bills took advantage. He's an incredibly athletic corner who will also help out in the return game. Buffalo needed secondary help, and they got one of the best in the draft.
10. New England Patriots: Jerod Mayo, MLB, Tennessee- This is somewhat surprising. Bill Belichick typically doesn't draft Linebackers high, and this one might be a bit of a reach. However, they needed youth at Linebacker, and this was a very good pick.
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Keith Rivers, OLB, Southern California- When Ellis went off the board, this one was a no brainer. Their defense is brutal, and they need an athletic playmaker that's not Dhani Jones to try and turn things around.
Looks like Baltimore is getting Jacksonville's 3rd rounders and a fourth in addition to their first rounder, obviously.
The Patriots got the #10 pick plus a 3rd rounder.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars (from BAL): Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida- He's another very good pass rusher, which as I mentioned in my mock draft, something they needed badly. He's kind of local (just like Campbell!) and he can probably start right away.
7. New Orleans Saints (from NE): Sedrick Ellis, DT, Southern California- I expected the Patriots to trade out of here, and they did. The Saints were probably afraid that Baltimore or Cincinnati would take their guy. It's a very good pick for them. They don't have much depth in the middle, and Hollis Thomas can't play.
6. New York Jets: Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State- They need to improve the pass rush, and he might be the best pass rusher in the draft. He's a productive player who proved to be a great athlete at the combine, and that catapulted his stock this high.
The Eagles could be trading up to 7 with New England. Stay tuned.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Glenn Dorsey, DT, Louisiana State- They were very happy to see him fall. He's a great tackle who was very productive at LSU. KC needed depth up front badly, and this was a great pick for them.
RJ from DRaysBay is reporting that Tampa is trading for Jason Taylor. Who knows if it'll actually happen.
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas- This is a very good pick for them. He might be the best player in the draft, and he'll be able to step in immediately and put points on the board for Oakland. Kudos on a job... done, Al Davis.
3. Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College- They need a QB, so I guess they feel obligated to spend a high pick on one. I maintain that he's not worth it, and it's too bad for Atlanta.
2. St. Louis Rams: Chris Long, DL, Virginia- His name's Long, so he has to be good, right? They need help on defense badly, and he's one of the best defensive players in the draft.
1. Miami Dolphins: Jake Long, OT, Michigan- No one was really deserving of #1 bonus money, but they need tackles in the worst way, and Long is a safe bet to be a very good player.
31. New York Giants: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami- They need depth in the secondary, and after losing Gibril Wilson in the secondary, Phillips is a good pick. Miami's streak stays alive.
Dinner.
30. New York Jets (from GB): Dustin Keller, TE, Purdue- It seems to me that the Jets don't know what the draft is about. Or whatever Kiper said in that timeless Jets' drafting mishaps video. I think I'm close.
I don't think I mentioned the Eagles trade yet. They moved one of their 4th rounders for Lorenzo Booker from Miami. He may have potential as a kick returner, so it's a good deal.
29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND): Kentwan Balmer, DT, North Carolina- I'm not quite sure how he's going to fit in with their defense. I think they could've done better. They have to be considering taking a receiver in the second round.
28. Seattle Seahawks (from DAL): Lawrence Jackson, DE, Southern California- I wasn't sure if they would take an end since I assumed they were happy with Tapp and Kerney. However, Jackson was a pretty good player at USC, and they needed DL depth.
27. San Diego Chargers: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona- They needed another corner, and they got one. Cason is another guy who would've been drafted higher had he come out a year earlier, but he's in a good spot. San Diego is a good team, and he should be able to play right away.
26. Houston Texans (from JAX via BAL): Duane Brown, OT, Virginia Tech- It's been a big need for them since the franchise started. It's too bad it took them several years to figure it out.
Seattle picked up a couple second day picks to move down.
25. Dallas Cowboys (from SEA): Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida- Why did he have to go here? Jenkins was going to be my guy, and I wanted to get a jersey. Now I can't. Damn.
24. Tennessee Titans: Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina- This was a pretty big reach, but NFLDC actually called this as a possibility. He's got awesome speed, and they can set up a very good one two punch with Lendale White. They might've been able to get him earlier though.
Maybe Tennessee will go Sweed here because of the Texas connection.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois- Very good pick for Pittsburgh. They wanted to get a compliment to Willie Parker, and Rashard has some power to finish runs. It's go time.
Apparently the Bobcats hired Larry Brown. I don't know what they're going to do. They have so many young players, he almost has to play some of them.
22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE): Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas- This was so predictable.
21. Atlanta Falcons (from WSH): Sam Baker, OT, Southern California- This may be a bit of a reach, but they want a pass protector for Ryan. His stock was sky high last year, and it dipped a little when he stayed for his senior season. Good pick for Atlanta.
20. Tampa Buccaneers: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas- If they wanted a corner, I'm surprised they didn't take the local kid in Jenkins. However, Talib will probably fit in their system very well. Some think of him as a safety, which means he's physical. That's what the Bucs need in their corners.
The Eagles got next year's first rounder and picked up a second. I guess it's okay. We don't need more picks though.
19. Carolina Panthers (from PHI): Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh- I'm not quite sure what the Eagles are thinking. Good pick for Carolina.
18. Baltimore Ravens (from HOU): Joe Flacco, QB, Delaware- Johnny, come on. Not the way to start your Baltimore coaching career.
17. Detroit Lions (from KC): Gosder Cherilius, OT, Boston College- In Mike Martz' system, their OL was exposed as very weak. In a new system, they would still be weak, but if they're going to commit to a running game, this is a good place to start. He's a mauler that will open up holes.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State- Another disappointment for Eagles fans. He has very good potential, and his return game made him interesting to Philadelphia. He didn't play against tough competition, and he's going to have to make some big adjustments to survive.
Lions got a 3rd and 5th rounder in addition to the #17 pick.
15. Kansas City Chiefs (from DET): Brandon Albert, OL, Virginia- Very disappointing for Eagles fans. This was the guy that the Eagles might've wanted, since he's most likely to stay at LT in the pros. Good move for KC to begin rebuilding their Offensive Line.
Chiefs traded up here. Not good.
14. Chicago Bears: Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt- As I mentioned in my mock draft, Offensive Line was a problem for them. Cedric Benson needs help, and their offense is just not good. There are some injury concerns with him, but he's a smart guy that should become a good player.
13. Carolina Panthers: Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon- I don't get it. I think they had bigger needs to address, and I don't think he's the best RB on the board either. They could use some help in the trenches, and that's where games are won. I don't think they should be giving up on DeAngelo Williams already.
12. Denver Broncos: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State- The Broncos have a very good system in place, but all of a sudden, they're running out of guys to execute it. He'll be stepping into a similar system, and he should be able to start right away.
11. Buffalo Bills: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy- He maybe slipped a little bit, and the Bills took advantage. He's an incredibly athletic corner who will also help out in the return game. Buffalo needed secondary help, and they got one of the best in the draft.
10. New England Patriots: Jerod Mayo, MLB, Tennessee- This is somewhat surprising. Bill Belichick typically doesn't draft Linebackers high, and this one might be a bit of a reach. However, they needed youth at Linebacker, and this was a very good pick.
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Keith Rivers, OLB, Southern California- When Ellis went off the board, this one was a no brainer. Their defense is brutal, and they need an athletic playmaker that's not Dhani Jones to try and turn things around.
Looks like Baltimore is getting Jacksonville's 3rd rounders and a fourth in addition to their first rounder, obviously.
The Patriots got the #10 pick plus a 3rd rounder.
8. Jacksonville Jaguars (from BAL): Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida- He's another very good pass rusher, which as I mentioned in my mock draft, something they needed badly. He's kind of local (just like Campbell!) and he can probably start right away.
7. New Orleans Saints (from NE): Sedrick Ellis, DT, Southern California- I expected the Patriots to trade out of here, and they did. The Saints were probably afraid that Baltimore or Cincinnati would take their guy. It's a very good pick for them. They don't have much depth in the middle, and Hollis Thomas can't play.
6. New York Jets: Vernon Gholston, DE/LB, Ohio State- They need to improve the pass rush, and he might be the best pass rusher in the draft. He's a productive player who proved to be a great athlete at the combine, and that catapulted his stock this high.
The Eagles could be trading up to 7 with New England. Stay tuned.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Glenn Dorsey, DT, Louisiana State- They were very happy to see him fall. He's a great tackle who was very productive at LSU. KC needed depth up front badly, and this was a great pick for them.
RJ from DRaysBay is reporting that Tampa is trading for Jason Taylor. Who knows if it'll actually happen.
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas- This is a very good pick for them. He might be the best player in the draft, and he'll be able to step in immediately and put points on the board for Oakland. Kudos on a job... done, Al Davis.
3. Atlanta Falcons: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College- They need a QB, so I guess they feel obligated to spend a high pick on one. I maintain that he's not worth it, and it's too bad for Atlanta.
2. St. Louis Rams: Chris Long, DL, Virginia- His name's Long, so he has to be good, right? They need help on defense badly, and he's one of the best defensive players in the draft.
1. Miami Dolphins: Jake Long, OT, Michigan- No one was really deserving of #1 bonus money, but they need tackles in the worst way, and Long is a safe bet to be a very good player.
Eastern Semis Game 2: Flyers at Canadiens (0-1)
Martin Biron v. Carey Price
They played some good hockey, but a few mistakes cost the Flyers what would've been a huge game one win. They got up on the board early and often, but penalties and failed clearing attempts did them in. However, they showed they can play with Montreal, and they need to win this game and come home tied 1-1.
Martin Biron was okay in game one. The post made a couple saves early, and he left a few too many good rebounds for Montreal, including the game winner.
The Flyers have been getting contributions from all of their lines, and that's going to continue to be important against Montreal. They're content with using their #1 D-pair to shut down Briere's line, so players like Carter, Upshall, Umberger and others will need to step up again. The 3rd and 4th lines each scored in game one, and you want to take advantage when Jim Dowd contributes.
I'm not going to bother complaining about the refs in game one too much. I'm not sure how a ref with his back turned to the play calls penalties, but apparently he has eyes in the back of his head. The Flyers need to not commit penalties and not even give them a chance to call penalties. Montreal cannot have PP opportunities.
Bill Meltzer. Hit it.
They played some good hockey, but a few mistakes cost the Flyers what would've been a huge game one win. They got up on the board early and often, but penalties and failed clearing attempts did them in. However, they showed they can play with Montreal, and they need to win this game and come home tied 1-1.
Martin Biron was okay in game one. The post made a couple saves early, and he left a few too many good rebounds for Montreal, including the game winner.
The Flyers have been getting contributions from all of their lines, and that's going to continue to be important against Montreal. They're content with using their #1 D-pair to shut down Briere's line, so players like Carter, Upshall, Umberger and others will need to step up again. The 3rd and 4th lines each scored in game one, and you want to take advantage when Jim Dowd contributes.
I'm not going to bother complaining about the refs in game one too much. I'm not sure how a ref with his back turned to the play calls penalties, but apparently he has eyes in the back of his head. The Flyers need to not commit penalties and not even give them a chance to call penalties. Montreal cannot have PP opportunities.
Bill Meltzer. Hit it.
NFL Mock Draft That Won't Quite Look Like The Real One
This is it: the mock you've been waiting for. I'm certain to nail all 31 first round picks, so this is the place to look if you want to know who your team is taking.
1. Miami Dolphins: Jake Long, OT, Michigan- I just have a hunch.
2. St. Louis Rams: Chris Long, DL, Virginia- They were 21st in the league in sacks last season, and they could use a playmaker to upgrade their terrible defense. Also, ESPN said this is who they're going to take.
3. Atlanta Falcons: Glenn Dorsey, DT, Louisiana State- Before they signed Michael Turner, I would've had Darren McFadden go here. Now, their new head coach will try to model what he did in Jacksonville with his great tackles and try to replicate it.
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas- Their offense was straight up terrible last season, and McFadden might be the best player in the draft. He's a true playmaker that will instantly upgrade their running game.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State- They just traded Jared Allen, and now they have a hole at end opposite Tamba Hali. Gholston was a productive player who proved to be incredibly athletic at the combine.
6. New York Jets: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy- Their pass defense was in the middle of the pack last year, but they could still use another corner. This would give them two first round corners in the last two years, and that'll give them a nice building block moving forward.
7. New England Patriots: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State- I definitely think they're trading out of this pick because they won't want to deal with the big rookie contract. However, I'm not doing trades, so I'll give them the best guy at a position they might choose to address.
8. Baltimore Ravens: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College- I don't like Matt Ryan at all. I don't think he's going to be successful, but in the NFL, teams take QB's high whether they deserve to go high or not.
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Sedrick Ellis, DT, Southern California- Their defense is still absolutely terrible, and getting an athletic tackle is a good place to start upgrading. They're pretty weak in the middle, but they could also choose to add another Linebacker.
10. New Orleans Saints: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida- They traded for Johnathan Vilma this offseason, so they might want to look to another position in the draft to fix the defense. Jenkins is a very good corner who can help improve an absolutely terrible secondary.
11. Buffalo Bills: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State- Wide Receiver is like QB in this draft. None of them should be taken particularly high, but someone will draft them because of need. The Bills apparently like Thomas, and I don't know who else I would put here.
12. Denver Broncos: Keith Rivers, OLB, Southern California- Their defense was surprisingly awful last season, and they need to get stronger against the run. Rivers is an athletic, productive player who has played against top notch competition.
13. Carolina Panthers: Branden Albert, OL, Virgnia- This guy has shot up draft boards because of the combine and private workouts, but I'm not going to buy into the hype as much as everyone else. Here's a good spot for him to land. Carolina needs to fix their line.
14. Chicago Bears: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh- Cedric Benson was terrible last year, and he's looking like more and more of a bust with each passing day. Is it because he can't play or because their line can't block? They'll find out next season.
15. Detroit Lions: Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida- They apparently really like Harvey, and it's kind of a gift that he falls this far. They want to strengthen their pass rush, and he can really get to the Quarterback.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon- He's a big, bruising RB, which is the kind of guy you'd think Ken Whisenhunt would want. Edgerrin James was a little better last season, but he's on his last legs, and the Cardinals need some youth at this position.
17. Kansas City Chiefs (from MIN): Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt- I almost ran out of tackles in the first round, but fortunately, I remembered Williams. He's another guy rising draft boards, and the Chiefs really need to rebuild the OL after some retirements over the years.
18. Houston Texans: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas- After Dunta Robinson suffered a serious injury, Houston was left looking for answers at corner. Talib showed a lot of potential at Kansas, and I really want the next guy to fall to the Eagles.
19. Philadelphia Eagles: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State- I'm assuming Lito Sheppard is going to be traded, and that leaves them short one CB. DRC probably won't fall this far, so it's a nice little steal. He's also a great kick returner, which the Eagles desperately need.
20. Tampa Buccaneers: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas- This may be a bit of a reach, but I think he's the best receiver left on the board. He'll give them some size, and he can go over the middle. DeSean Jackson is a possibility, but he's more of a big deep threat, and Garcia's noodle arm might not be able to get the ball to him.
21. Washington Redskins: Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson- Their pass rush is still pretty lame, and Merling might be the player left on the board. He's a bit of a steal, and he's a complete end. Look for Washington to possibly do something stupid instead.
22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE): Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas- They already have Marion Barber, but why not? He's going to give the rest of the NFC East headaches during his career. Dallas doesn't have many spots where they obviously need an upgrade, so they can afford to do something like this.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami- Phillips will keep up Miami's first round streak alive, but I'm not sure if he'll go right here. They have that one guy who talks a lot of trash, but he's not a good player and the position can be upgraded.
24. Tennessee Titans: DeSean Jackson, WR, California- Their WR depth is ri-diculous, and with Pac Man Jones likely out the door, they could use a good return man too. Jackson can become a very good deep threat to help out Vince Young.
25. Seattle Seahawks: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College- I'm not thrilled about this pick, and Seattle probably won't be either. I'd imagine they'll trade down.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami- Their DL suddenly looks a bit thin, and they can add depth by selecting this guy that's kind of local. Campbell was absolutely brutal in workouts, so his stock has fallen dramatically.
27. San Diego Chargers: Sam Baker, OT, Southern California- This may be a bit of a reach, but they have a hole at RT now. The Chargers won't pick again until the 5th round, so there's also a good chance someone trades up to get someone they actually want.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona- Cason was rated highly on boards last year, and I have no idea what happened. Either way, the Cowboys need a new corner.
29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND): Jerod Mayo, MLB, Tennessee- Hey Jerry, can you keep an eye on the aquarium and make sure no one taps on the glass?
30. Green Bay Packers: John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame- They really don't have any glaring holes, but they could choose to add depth at corner if they wanted to. Carlson has soft hands, and he'll be able to help out Aaron Rodgers a lot in his development.
31. New England Patriots: Oops
32. New York Giants: Dan Connor, LB, Penn State- I still can't believe they won the Super Bowl. Their defense is the side of the ball that needs the most help, and they could go LB or DB here. Connor is a guy not being respected by a lot of places, and I think he's a better prospect than Paul was.
There it is. The first round of the NFL draft. I'm kind of hoping I didn't forget anyone.
1. Miami Dolphins: Jake Long, OT, Michigan- I just have a hunch.
2. St. Louis Rams: Chris Long, DL, Virginia- They were 21st in the league in sacks last season, and they could use a playmaker to upgrade their terrible defense. Also, ESPN said this is who they're going to take.
3. Atlanta Falcons: Glenn Dorsey, DT, Louisiana State- Before they signed Michael Turner, I would've had Darren McFadden go here. Now, their new head coach will try to model what he did in Jacksonville with his great tackles and try to replicate it.
4. Oakland Raiders: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas- Their offense was straight up terrible last season, and McFadden might be the best player in the draft. He's a true playmaker that will instantly upgrade their running game.
5. Kansas City Chiefs: Vernon Gholston, DE, Ohio State- They just traded Jared Allen, and now they have a hole at end opposite Tamba Hali. Gholston was a productive player who proved to be incredibly athletic at the combine.
6. New York Jets: Leodis McKelvin, CB, Troy- Their pass defense was in the middle of the pack last year, but they could still use another corner. This would give them two first round corners in the last two years, and that'll give them a nice building block moving forward.
7. New England Patriots: Ryan Clady, OT, Boise State- I definitely think they're trading out of this pick because they won't want to deal with the big rookie contract. However, I'm not doing trades, so I'll give them the best guy at a position they might choose to address.
8. Baltimore Ravens: Matt Ryan, QB, Boston College- I don't like Matt Ryan at all. I don't think he's going to be successful, but in the NFL, teams take QB's high whether they deserve to go high or not.
9. Cincinnati Bengals: Sedrick Ellis, DT, Southern California- Their defense is still absolutely terrible, and getting an athletic tackle is a good place to start upgrading. They're pretty weak in the middle, but they could also choose to add another Linebacker.
10. New Orleans Saints: Mike Jenkins, CB, South Florida- They traded for Johnathan Vilma this offseason, so they might want to look to another position in the draft to fix the defense. Jenkins is a very good corner who can help improve an absolutely terrible secondary.
11. Buffalo Bills: Devin Thomas, WR, Michigan State- Wide Receiver is like QB in this draft. None of them should be taken particularly high, but someone will draft them because of need. The Bills apparently like Thomas, and I don't know who else I would put here.
12. Denver Broncos: Keith Rivers, OLB, Southern California- Their defense was surprisingly awful last season, and they need to get stronger against the run. Rivers is an athletic, productive player who has played against top notch competition.
13. Carolina Panthers: Branden Albert, OL, Virgnia- This guy has shot up draft boards because of the combine and private workouts, but I'm not going to buy into the hype as much as everyone else. Here's a good spot for him to land. Carolina needs to fix their line.
14. Chicago Bears: Jeff Otah, OT, Pittsburgh- Cedric Benson was terrible last year, and he's looking like more and more of a bust with each passing day. Is it because he can't play or because their line can't block? They'll find out next season.
15. Detroit Lions: Derrick Harvey, DE, Florida- They apparently really like Harvey, and it's kind of a gift that he falls this far. They want to strengthen their pass rush, and he can really get to the Quarterback.
16. Arizona Cardinals: Johnathan Stewart, RB, Oregon- He's a big, bruising RB, which is the kind of guy you'd think Ken Whisenhunt would want. Edgerrin James was a little better last season, but he's on his last legs, and the Cardinals need some youth at this position.
17. Kansas City Chiefs (from MIN): Chris Williams, OT, Vanderbilt- I almost ran out of tackles in the first round, but fortunately, I remembered Williams. He's another guy rising draft boards, and the Chiefs really need to rebuild the OL after some retirements over the years.
18. Houston Texans: Aqib Talib, CB, Kansas- After Dunta Robinson suffered a serious injury, Houston was left looking for answers at corner. Talib showed a lot of potential at Kansas, and I really want the next guy to fall to the Eagles.
19. Philadelphia Eagles: Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State- I'm assuming Lito Sheppard is going to be traded, and that leaves them short one CB. DRC probably won't fall this far, so it's a nice little steal. He's also a great kick returner, which the Eagles desperately need.
20. Tampa Buccaneers: Limas Sweed, WR, Texas- This may be a bit of a reach, but I think he's the best receiver left on the board. He'll give them some size, and he can go over the middle. DeSean Jackson is a possibility, but he's more of a big deep threat, and Garcia's noodle arm might not be able to get the ball to him.
21. Washington Redskins: Phillip Merling, DE, Clemson- Their pass rush is still pretty lame, and Merling might be the player left on the board. He's a bit of a steal, and he's a complete end. Look for Washington to possibly do something stupid instead.
22. Dallas Cowboys (from CLE): Felix Jones, RB, Arkansas- They already have Marion Barber, but why not? He's going to give the rest of the NFC East headaches during his career. Dallas doesn't have many spots where they obviously need an upgrade, so they can afford to do something like this.
23. Pittsburgh Steelers: Kenny Phillips, S, Miami- Phillips will keep up Miami's first round streak alive, but I'm not sure if he'll go right here. They have that one guy who talks a lot of trash, but he's not a good player and the position can be upgraded.
24. Tennessee Titans: DeSean Jackson, WR, California- Their WR depth is ri-diculous, and with Pac Man Jones likely out the door, they could use a good return man too. Jackson can become a very good deep threat to help out Vince Young.
25. Seattle Seahawks: Gosder Cherilus, OT, Boston College- I'm not thrilled about this pick, and Seattle probably won't be either. I'd imagine they'll trade down.
26. Jacksonville Jaguars: Calais Campbell, DE, Miami- Their DL suddenly looks a bit thin, and they can add depth by selecting this guy that's kind of local. Campbell was absolutely brutal in workouts, so his stock has fallen dramatically.
27. San Diego Chargers: Sam Baker, OT, Southern California- This may be a bit of a reach, but they have a hole at RT now. The Chargers won't pick again until the 5th round, so there's also a good chance someone trades up to get someone they actually want.
28. Dallas Cowboys: Antoine Cason, CB, Arizona- Cason was rated highly on boards last year, and I have no idea what happened. Either way, the Cowboys need a new corner.
29. San Francisco 49ers (from IND): Jerod Mayo, MLB, Tennessee- Hey Jerry, can you keep an eye on the aquarium and make sure no one taps on the glass?
30. Green Bay Packers: John Carlson, TE, Notre Dame- They really don't have any glaring holes, but they could choose to add depth at corner if they wanted to. Carlson has soft hands, and he'll be able to help out Aaron Rodgers a lot in his development.
31. New England Patriots: Oops
32. New York Giants: Dan Connor, LB, Penn State- I still can't believe they won the Super Bowl. Their defense is the side of the ball that needs the most help, and they could go LB or DB here. Connor is a guy not being respected by a lot of places, and I think he's a better prospect than Paul was.
There it is. The first round of the NFL draft. I'm kind of hoping I didn't forget anyone.
Friday, April 25, 2008
Less Than 13 Hours Away
The NFL Draft will begin. In just under 14 hours from now, the Dolphins will confirm something we've known for the better part of the week; Jake Long will be the first overall choice. Eventually, we'll work through the first two rounds of the draft before starting over again tomorrow morning. Here is some brief pre-draft coverage. I will be blogging during the draft, and nothing beats my live blogs.
The Eagles have the following picks:
1.19
2.49
3.80
4.115
4.131 (Compensation)
5.152
6.184
6.191 (from Cleveland)
6.200 (Compensation)
6.203 (Compensation)
7.230 (from Seattle)
That's 11 picks total. The Eagles already have a lot of guys under contract for next year, so I find it highly unlikely that they'll end up taking 11 players. Normally 11 picks is something to get excited about, but with eight in the last four rounds, they're not too significant. What does this mean? They'll probably use those extra picks to trade up in this draft or pick up some picks next year. Remember, compensation picks cannot be traded, so that fourth rounder and two sixth rounders are locked in.
Lito Sheppard trade rumors are beginning to heat up again. There's a good chance he's traded this weekend. What are the Eagles going to get? One popular rumor right now has Sheppard going to Tampa for their second rounder and another pick or player, speculated to be Michael Clayton. Who knows what happens from there? They'll almost have to use the extra pick to trade up or in another trade.
Next, I'll break things down position by position, in order of the likelihood they're taken by the Eagles. With a lot of picks, there's a good chance they cover a lot of positions. They don't have any huge holes that can easily be addressed, but they could also use a lot of depth in places. When I say the first day or second day of the draft, I'm still going by the 1-3 and 4-7 format.
Offensive Line
Likely to be addressed on the first day
People might groan if they take an Offensive Lineman early again, but isn't it a reasonable pick? The fact is, Tra Thomas and John Runyan are nearing the end, and the Eagles might not have adequate replacements for them. No one was impressed with Winston Justice this season, and even though they shouldn't give up on him, getting another tackle might not be a bad idea. Todd Herremans is probably a better tackle than guard, so if they don't see a tackle they like in the first round, it's possible they address guard later.
Names to watch: Ryan Clady, Boise State, Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh, Chris Williams, Vanderbilt, Sam Baker, Southern California, Brandon Albert, Virginia. All of these guys are slated to go in the first round, so if the Eagles want to add a lineman, they hope one of those guys is available.
Safety
They wanted to address it early last year, but didn't
I'm in the camp that believes they wanted to take Brandon Meriweather in the first round last year, but New England scooped him up. At that point, they didn't like anyone on the board and traded down to select Kevin Kolb. They obviously need to get younger and deeper at the position, but will they actually take one early? The way things stand right now, they have four safeties who can all contribute. Brian Dawkins is Brian Dawkins, and Considine, Mikell and Reed can all start a little and play special teams. They might not want to cut any of those guys, so there wouldn't be room for a rookie.
Names to watch: Kenny Phillips, Miami, Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame. Zbikowski might be more Notre Dame hype than substance, but he's a tough player who can return punts. Phillips should be on the board around when the Eagles pick.
Defensive End
It'll probably be addressed early in the draft
Although they already added another end in Chris Clemons, the Giants proved that having a lot of pass rushers can never hurt. I trust Jim Johnson to find snaps for everyone and ways to incorporate Cole, Clemons, Thomas, Abiamiri and whoever else might be put in the fold. I think they would've preferred to go after Jared Allen or Terrell Suggs, but the franchise tag (and in Allen's case, the trade to Minnesota,) prevented that from happening. Nabbing another pass rusher early couldn't hurt though.
Names to watch: Derrick Harvey, Florida, Phillip Merling, Clemson, Lawrence Jackson, Southern California. Harvey and Merling could be around at pick #19, and both would be good additions. Lawrence Jackson was once seen as one of the best prospects in the country, but his stock dipped after his senior season. He should be around in the second or third.
Cornerback
Likely to be addressed on the first day
If the Eagles trade Lito Sheppard, which seems to be getting more and more likely, how much did signing Asante Samuel really help? You have two very good corners with little depth beyond that. Joselio Hanson improved a little bit in 2007, but is anyone comfortable with him as the third corner? The Eagles need to get depth here, and it would be great if whoever they draft can return kicks.
Names to watch: Mike Jenkins, South Florida, Antoine Cason, Arizona, Aqib Talib, Kansas, Justin King, Penn State, Tracy Porter, Indiana. It's pretty likely that Jenkins, Cason and Talib are first rounders. It's also pretty likely that Jenkins is gone before the Eagles pick. As I mentioned, return ability has to be a factor when choosing a corner. King and Porter are both dynamic athletes, but they are not first round picks.
Wide Receiver
If they can't get the veteran they want, they might take one early
The Eagles have been rumored to be trying to acquire any receiver that might be available, including but not limited to Randy Moss, Larry Fitzgerald and Fred Barnett. They need to add a playmaker, and if there aren't any veterans to be had, it has to be done through the draft. Obviously, the Eagles would prefer an experienced player because there wouldn't be an adjustment period from the college to the pro game. You never know if you're going to be able to get anything out of your WR in the first couple years of their career, and it's a big risk to take one.
Names to watch: Devin Thomas, Michigan State, Limas Sweed, Texas, DeSean Jackson, California, James Hardy, Indiana, Marcus Monk, Arkansas. Thomas, Sweed and Jackson could all go in the first round. None of them are particularly great because it's a weak class at the top this year. Jackson is a great return man which the Eagles definitely need, but should you use your first round pick on a special teams player? Hardy is interesting because of his size and super-productivity at Indiana. I threw Monk in there because he's a big guy who showed a lot of promise in his junior season.
Tight End
It might not be taken care of early, but L.J. Smith is probably gone after this year
The Eagles could use any playmakers they can get their hands on offensively, even if it means adding another Tight End. However, the reality is there may not be room for another. They've already signed Kris Wilson, and with Smith, Celek and Schobel on the roster along with two Fullbacks, how are they going to make room? Schobel could get cut, and it's just assumed that Smith is leaving after 2008, so finding a replacement couldn't hurt.
Names to watch: John Carlson, Notre Dame, Fred Davis, Southern California, Martin Rucker, Missouri. All three of those guys will probably be taken in the second or third round, so if the Eagles plan to take care of the position, they will have to do it early. Carlson and Rucker were both pretty productive and have good hands. Davis is an outstanding athlete who finally started living up to his potential in his senior season.
Linebacker
Depth will probably be taken care of on Sunday
The Eagles cut Takeo Spikes about a week into free agency, and he somewhat surprisingly hasn't found a new team yet. They're starting three players with two or fewer years of experience, and they could use a little more depth at the position. They might even use a high pick on one; they should be drafting the best player available, and it's possible that the philosophy lands them a LB.
Names to watch: Dan Connor, Penn State. He's really being shortchanged on draft boards, and it's a shame.
Defensive Tackle
Probably taken care of on the second day
The Eagles are set with starters Brodrick Bunkley and Mike Patterson. With those two guys, it's not necessary to spend a high pick on a tackle. However, Jim Johnson likes to rotate in the middle, so it's important to replenish the depth. Jeremy Clark looks like he could become a decent player, and he could earn a spot on the roster if he has another strong camp. Darren Howard can play a little tackle, but they could still add another.
Names to watch: Andre Fluellen, Florida State. It looks like he'll be a mid round pick, and he fits the mold of Eagles' DT's. It doesn't reflect in his stats, but he's around 290-300 pounds and a pretty decent athlete.
Running Back
Could be earlier than you think
RB is a position like LB. It's obviously not an immediate concern with Brian Westbrook in the backfield, but there's a pretty deep class this year. I know they just drafted Tony Hunt and Correll Buckhalter isn't bad, but there's talent to be had here. Drafting a playbook that features more running plays wouldn't hurt either.
Names to watch: Felix Jones, Arkansas, Johnathan Stewart, Oregon, Ray Rice, Rutgers, Steve Slaton, West Virginia, Chris Johnson, East Carolina. Jones and Stewart both look like first rounders, so the Eagles would need to use a BPA strategy in the first to get either of them. That might upset a lot of fans, but they could add a lot to the offense. Rice and Slaton are both mid rounders, and Johnson is an outstanding athlete that could improve the return game.
Quarterback
Probably don't need another young guy
I doubt they take another QB, but you never know. They already have three on the roster, but it wouldn't surprise me if that number was down to two by the end of the weekend. There's apparently interest in A.J. Feeley, and the Eagles could acquire a pick for him. If a spot opens up, they'll probably look for a veteran, but there are a few guys to be had in the later rounds.
Names to watch: Colt Brennan, Hawaii, Paul Smith, Tulsa, Sam Keller, Nebraska, Anthony Morelli, Penn State. I really feel that Brennan is being underrated. I know he played in the pass happy offense, and I know that he got destroyed in the Sugar Bowl, but I've seen him, and I think he'll be a good player. He's accurate, makes good decisions and is pretty mobile. It might be tough to transition to a more pro style offense, but he can do it.
Fullback
They already have two, so they probably won't get another
The Eagles appear to be satisfied with Jason Davis and Dan Klecko heading into the season. However, there are a couple good Fullbacks out there, and what's the harm in a little competition?
Names to watch: Owen Schmitt, West Virginia. He's a very good blocker.
There's a little preview. I'll try and do a mock draft tomorrow morning.
The Eagles have the following picks:
1.19
2.49
3.80
4.115
4.131 (Compensation)
5.152
6.184
6.191 (from Cleveland)
6.200 (Compensation)
6.203 (Compensation)
7.230 (from Seattle)
That's 11 picks total. The Eagles already have a lot of guys under contract for next year, so I find it highly unlikely that they'll end up taking 11 players. Normally 11 picks is something to get excited about, but with eight in the last four rounds, they're not too significant. What does this mean? They'll probably use those extra picks to trade up in this draft or pick up some picks next year. Remember, compensation picks cannot be traded, so that fourth rounder and two sixth rounders are locked in.
Lito Sheppard trade rumors are beginning to heat up again. There's a good chance he's traded this weekend. What are the Eagles going to get? One popular rumor right now has Sheppard going to Tampa for their second rounder and another pick or player, speculated to be Michael Clayton. Who knows what happens from there? They'll almost have to use the extra pick to trade up or in another trade.
Next, I'll break things down position by position, in order of the likelihood they're taken by the Eagles. With a lot of picks, there's a good chance they cover a lot of positions. They don't have any huge holes that can easily be addressed, but they could also use a lot of depth in places. When I say the first day or second day of the draft, I'm still going by the 1-3 and 4-7 format.
Offensive Line
Likely to be addressed on the first day
People might groan if they take an Offensive Lineman early again, but isn't it a reasonable pick? The fact is, Tra Thomas and John Runyan are nearing the end, and the Eagles might not have adequate replacements for them. No one was impressed with Winston Justice this season, and even though they shouldn't give up on him, getting another tackle might not be a bad idea. Todd Herremans is probably a better tackle than guard, so if they don't see a tackle they like in the first round, it's possible they address guard later.
Names to watch: Ryan Clady, Boise State, Jeff Otah, Pittsburgh, Chris Williams, Vanderbilt, Sam Baker, Southern California, Brandon Albert, Virginia. All of these guys are slated to go in the first round, so if the Eagles want to add a lineman, they hope one of those guys is available.
Safety
They wanted to address it early last year, but didn't
I'm in the camp that believes they wanted to take Brandon Meriweather in the first round last year, but New England scooped him up. At that point, they didn't like anyone on the board and traded down to select Kevin Kolb. They obviously need to get younger and deeper at the position, but will they actually take one early? The way things stand right now, they have four safeties who can all contribute. Brian Dawkins is Brian Dawkins, and Considine, Mikell and Reed can all start a little and play special teams. They might not want to cut any of those guys, so there wouldn't be room for a rookie.
Names to watch: Kenny Phillips, Miami, Tom Zbikowski, Notre Dame. Zbikowski might be more Notre Dame hype than substance, but he's a tough player who can return punts. Phillips should be on the board around when the Eagles pick.
Defensive End
It'll probably be addressed early in the draft
Although they already added another end in Chris Clemons, the Giants proved that having a lot of pass rushers can never hurt. I trust Jim Johnson to find snaps for everyone and ways to incorporate Cole, Clemons, Thomas, Abiamiri and whoever else might be put in the fold. I think they would've preferred to go after Jared Allen or Terrell Suggs, but the franchise tag (and in Allen's case, the trade to Minnesota,) prevented that from happening. Nabbing another pass rusher early couldn't hurt though.
Names to watch: Derrick Harvey, Florida, Phillip Merling, Clemson, Lawrence Jackson, Southern California. Harvey and Merling could be around at pick #19, and both would be good additions. Lawrence Jackson was once seen as one of the best prospects in the country, but his stock dipped after his senior season. He should be around in the second or third.
Cornerback
Likely to be addressed on the first day
If the Eagles trade Lito Sheppard, which seems to be getting more and more likely, how much did signing Asante Samuel really help? You have two very good corners with little depth beyond that. Joselio Hanson improved a little bit in 2007, but is anyone comfortable with him as the third corner? The Eagles need to get depth here, and it would be great if whoever they draft can return kicks.
Names to watch: Mike Jenkins, South Florida, Antoine Cason, Arizona, Aqib Talib, Kansas, Justin King, Penn State, Tracy Porter, Indiana. It's pretty likely that Jenkins, Cason and Talib are first rounders. It's also pretty likely that Jenkins is gone before the Eagles pick. As I mentioned, return ability has to be a factor when choosing a corner. King and Porter are both dynamic athletes, but they are not first round picks.
Wide Receiver
If they can't get the veteran they want, they might take one early
The Eagles have been rumored to be trying to acquire any receiver that might be available, including but not limited to Randy Moss, Larry Fitzgerald and Fred Barnett. They need to add a playmaker, and if there aren't any veterans to be had, it has to be done through the draft. Obviously, the Eagles would prefer an experienced player because there wouldn't be an adjustment period from the college to the pro game. You never know if you're going to be able to get anything out of your WR in the first couple years of their career, and it's a big risk to take one.
Names to watch: Devin Thomas, Michigan State, Limas Sweed, Texas, DeSean Jackson, California, James Hardy, Indiana, Marcus Monk, Arkansas. Thomas, Sweed and Jackson could all go in the first round. None of them are particularly great because it's a weak class at the top this year. Jackson is a great return man which the Eagles definitely need, but should you use your first round pick on a special teams player? Hardy is interesting because of his size and super-productivity at Indiana. I threw Monk in there because he's a big guy who showed a lot of promise in his junior season.
Tight End
It might not be taken care of early, but L.J. Smith is probably gone after this year
The Eagles could use any playmakers they can get their hands on offensively, even if it means adding another Tight End. However, the reality is there may not be room for another. They've already signed Kris Wilson, and with Smith, Celek and Schobel on the roster along with two Fullbacks, how are they going to make room? Schobel could get cut, and it's just assumed that Smith is leaving after 2008, so finding a replacement couldn't hurt.
Names to watch: John Carlson, Notre Dame, Fred Davis, Southern California, Martin Rucker, Missouri. All three of those guys will probably be taken in the second or third round, so if the Eagles plan to take care of the position, they will have to do it early. Carlson and Rucker were both pretty productive and have good hands. Davis is an outstanding athlete who finally started living up to his potential in his senior season.
Linebacker
Depth will probably be taken care of on Sunday
The Eagles cut Takeo Spikes about a week into free agency, and he somewhat surprisingly hasn't found a new team yet. They're starting three players with two or fewer years of experience, and they could use a little more depth at the position. They might even use a high pick on one; they should be drafting the best player available, and it's possible that the philosophy lands them a LB.
Names to watch: Dan Connor, Penn State. He's really being shortchanged on draft boards, and it's a shame.
Defensive Tackle
Probably taken care of on the second day
The Eagles are set with starters Brodrick Bunkley and Mike Patterson. With those two guys, it's not necessary to spend a high pick on a tackle. However, Jim Johnson likes to rotate in the middle, so it's important to replenish the depth. Jeremy Clark looks like he could become a decent player, and he could earn a spot on the roster if he has another strong camp. Darren Howard can play a little tackle, but they could still add another.
Names to watch: Andre Fluellen, Florida State. It looks like he'll be a mid round pick, and he fits the mold of Eagles' DT's. It doesn't reflect in his stats, but he's around 290-300 pounds and a pretty decent athlete.
Running Back
Could be earlier than you think
RB is a position like LB. It's obviously not an immediate concern with Brian Westbrook in the backfield, but there's a pretty deep class this year. I know they just drafted Tony Hunt and Correll Buckhalter isn't bad, but there's talent to be had here. Drafting a playbook that features more running plays wouldn't hurt either.
Names to watch: Felix Jones, Arkansas, Johnathan Stewart, Oregon, Ray Rice, Rutgers, Steve Slaton, West Virginia, Chris Johnson, East Carolina. Jones and Stewart both look like first rounders, so the Eagles would need to use a BPA strategy in the first to get either of them. That might upset a lot of fans, but they could add a lot to the offense. Rice and Slaton are both mid rounders, and Johnson is an outstanding athlete that could improve the return game.
Quarterback
Probably don't need another young guy
I doubt they take another QB, but you never know. They already have three on the roster, but it wouldn't surprise me if that number was down to two by the end of the weekend. There's apparently interest in A.J. Feeley, and the Eagles could acquire a pick for him. If a spot opens up, they'll probably look for a veteran, but there are a few guys to be had in the later rounds.
Names to watch: Colt Brennan, Hawaii, Paul Smith, Tulsa, Sam Keller, Nebraska, Anthony Morelli, Penn State. I really feel that Brennan is being underrated. I know he played in the pass happy offense, and I know that he got destroyed in the Sugar Bowl, but I've seen him, and I think he'll be a good player. He's accurate, makes good decisions and is pretty mobile. It might be tough to transition to a more pro style offense, but he can do it.
Fullback
They already have two, so they probably won't get another
The Eagles appear to be satisfied with Jason Davis and Dan Klecko heading into the season. However, there are a couple good Fullbacks out there, and what's the harm in a little competition?
Names to watch: Owen Schmitt, West Virginia. He's a very good blocker.
There's a little preview. I'll try and do a mock draft tomorrow morning.
Game 24/Haven't Done One Of These In A While: Phillies at Pirates (1/3)
Philadelphia Phillies: 12-11
Pittsburgh Pirates: 9-13
Adam Eaton (0-0 4.74 ERA, 2-1 9.74 ERA)
Zach Duke (0-1 4.34 ERA, 1-1 3.65 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Taguchi RF 5/17, 1 RBI, .294/.333/.294
Werth CF N/A
Utley 2B 2/7, 1 RBI, .286/.286/.429
Burrell LF 2/6, .333/.333/.333
Feliz 3B 1/5, 1 RBI, .200/.333/.400
Dobbs 1B N/A
Coste C 1/3, 1 RBI, .333/.333/.333
Bruntlett SS 1/3, .333/.333/.333
Eaton P
McLouth CF N/A
Sanchez 2B 0/0, .000/1.000/.000
Bay LF 0/0, 1 RBI, .000/.000/.000
Doumit C N/A
Nady RF N/A
LaRoche 1B 3/6, .500/.500/.667
Bautista 3B 0/3
Bixler SS N/A
Duke P
The Phillies have not won a series in Pittsburgh since June of 2001. Here are some facts about that series. Brandon Arroyo won game two for Pittsburgh. There were only two current Phillies to appear in the series clinching game on June 21st: Jimmy Rollins and Pat Burrell. Only four other players to appear for the Phillies are still active: Bobby Abreu, Scott Rolen, Marlon Anderson and Johnny Estrada. Abraham Nunez led off playing SS for Pittsburgh. The middle of their order was Jason Kendall at C, Brian Giles in CF, and Aramis Ramirez playing 3B. That was a long time ago.
Now that they've managed to get above .500 for the second time, it's time to stay there. They need to take a couple games in this series and then come back to Philadelphia for a nice homestand. Hopefully Ryan Howard can get his head cleared and start swinging the bat better than he is.
Pittsburgh Pirates: 9-13
Adam Eaton (0-0 4.74 ERA, 2-1 9.74 ERA)
Zach Duke (0-1 4.34 ERA, 1-1 3.65 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Taguchi RF 5/17, 1 RBI, .294/.333/.294
Werth CF N/A
Utley 2B 2/7, 1 RBI, .286/.286/.429
Burrell LF 2/6, .333/.333/.333
Feliz 3B 1/5, 1 RBI, .200/.333/.400
Dobbs 1B N/A
Coste C 1/3, 1 RBI, .333/.333/.333
Bruntlett SS 1/3, .333/.333/.333
Eaton P
McLouth CF N/A
Sanchez 2B 0/0, .000/1.000/.000
Bay LF 0/0, 1 RBI, .000/.000/.000
Doumit C N/A
Nady RF N/A
LaRoche 1B 3/6, .500/.500/.667
Bautista 3B 0/3
Bixler SS N/A
Duke P
The Phillies have not won a series in Pittsburgh since June of 2001. Here are some facts about that series. Brandon Arroyo won game two for Pittsburgh. There were only two current Phillies to appear in the series clinching game on June 21st: Jimmy Rollins and Pat Burrell. Only four other players to appear for the Phillies are still active: Bobby Abreu, Scott Rolen, Marlon Anderson and Johnny Estrada. Abraham Nunez led off playing SS for Pittsburgh. The middle of their order was Jason Kendall at C, Brian Giles in CF, and Aramis Ramirez playing 3B. That was a long time ago.
Now that they've managed to get above .500 for the second time, it's time to stay there. They need to take a couple games in this series and then come back to Philadelphia for a nice homestand. Hopefully Ryan Howard can get his head cleared and start swinging the bat better than he is.
Thursday, April 24, 2008
Eastern Semis Game 1: Flyers at Canadiens
Martin Biron v. Carey Price
Both teams may be lucky to survive, but the fact is, it's the Flyers and Canadiens still alive, and it's the Capitals and Bruins dusting off their golf clubs. Despite being two of the last series to be decided, this game will kick off round two around the NHL. Will fatigue set in? Hopefully not, but the Flyers went seven games and played some extra hockey on Tuesday. They need to get off to a fast start in the worst way.
Martin Biron's postseason stats were actually worse than his regular season numbers, but what matters is how well he played in game seven. The Flyers hope he can carry some of that momentum over.
Something that's nice for the Flyers is the fact that Montreal doesn't have "that guy" like Washington does. Don't get me wrong though; Montreal can put the puck in the net as well as anyone. They're deep, and their Power Play was awesome. Alex Kovalev revived his career this season when he led Montreal in goals and points. Their other big scorers include Tomas Plekanec, Christopher Higgins, the Kostitsyn brothers and of course, Saku Koivu.
The key for the Flyers is to play disciplined and stay out of the box. 35% of their goals were scored with a man advantage, so it's critical to not give them those opportunities. They had five players score double digit goals on the PP, so they can roll out a couple effective lines. The same can be said for Montreal; the Flyers have the same percentage of man advantage goals.
Who's hot?
The Kostitsyns have combined for six goals and 11 points in the playoffs so far. Alex Kovalev has two goals and six points.
Danny Briere leads the playoffs with six goals and 11 points by himself. Prospal is tied for second in playoff points with nine. Jeff Carter has three goals.
Bill Meltzer previews the game. Who's going to be on the fourth line tonight?
Both teams may be lucky to survive, but the fact is, it's the Flyers and Canadiens still alive, and it's the Capitals and Bruins dusting off their golf clubs. Despite being two of the last series to be decided, this game will kick off round two around the NHL. Will fatigue set in? Hopefully not, but the Flyers went seven games and played some extra hockey on Tuesday. They need to get off to a fast start in the worst way.
Martin Biron's postseason stats were actually worse than his regular season numbers, but what matters is how well he played in game seven. The Flyers hope he can carry some of that momentum over.
Something that's nice for the Flyers is the fact that Montreal doesn't have "that guy" like Washington does. Don't get me wrong though; Montreal can put the puck in the net as well as anyone. They're deep, and their Power Play was awesome. Alex Kovalev revived his career this season when he led Montreal in goals and points. Their other big scorers include Tomas Plekanec, Christopher Higgins, the Kostitsyn brothers and of course, Saku Koivu.
The key for the Flyers is to play disciplined and stay out of the box. 35% of their goals were scored with a man advantage, so it's critical to not give them those opportunities. They had five players score double digit goals on the PP, so they can roll out a couple effective lines. The same can be said for Montreal; the Flyers have the same percentage of man advantage goals.
Who's hot?
The Kostitsyns have combined for six goals and 11 points in the playoffs so far. Alex Kovalev has two goals and six points.
Danny Briere leads the playoffs with six goals and 11 points by himself. Prospal is tied for second in playoff points with nine. Jeff Carter has three goals.
Bill Meltzer previews the game. Who's going to be on the fourth line tonight?
Wednesday, April 23, 2008
Gotta Love It
Never in doubt, right?
The Flyers prevailed 3-2 in an exciting overtime finish to game seven. The Capitals got on top early, but the Flyers battled back. After being outplayed for much of the third period, the game went to overtime. Make no mistake about it. Martin Biron temporarily silenced the critics with his outstanding play. He couldn't play in back to back games. He couldn't handle the pressure of the playoffs. Not last night.
It's about time Joffrey Lupul got on the board. He was huge in the playoffs for Anaheim a few years ago, and it was only a matter of time before he broke out here too. He's probably still suffering the effects of a couple previous injuries, but now's not the time to have a let down. He was huge last night, poor series or not.
Now it's time for Montreal. The Flyers were 0-4 against the Canadiens in the regular season, but you can throw that out the window. Boston lost the first 11 straight to Montreal this season, and they managed to take them to seven games. The Flyers are definitely a better team than the Bruins, and they need to show up tomorrow and prove it right away.
The Flyers prevailed 3-2 in an exciting overtime finish to game seven. The Capitals got on top early, but the Flyers battled back. After being outplayed for much of the third period, the game went to overtime. Make no mistake about it. Martin Biron temporarily silenced the critics with his outstanding play. He couldn't play in back to back games. He couldn't handle the pressure of the playoffs. Not last night.
It's about time Joffrey Lupul got on the board. He was huge in the playoffs for Anaheim a few years ago, and it was only a matter of time before he broke out here too. He's probably still suffering the effects of a couple previous injuries, but now's not the time to have a let down. He was huge last night, poor series or not.
Now it's time for Montreal. The Flyers were 0-4 against the Canadiens in the regular season, but you can throw that out the window. Boston lost the first 11 straight to Montreal this season, and they managed to take them to seven games. The Flyers are definitely a better team than the Bruins, and they need to show up tomorrow and prove it right away.
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Seven
Cristobal Huet v. Martin Biron
It's what every Flyers fan feared; it's a one game series in Washington. The Flyers needed one game to win, and they coughed up their two game series lead. All bets are off now. The regular season doesn't matter. Games 1-6 don't matter. Throw out any stats or trends. One mistake, one penalty, one save changes everything. Actually, before we throw out trends: 20 teams have failed to hold their 3-1 series lead. The Flyers have been that team twice. We all remember the Lindros/Stevens incident from eight years ago, but the time before that? Against these same Capitals 20 years ago.
I'm just not very confident heading into tonight's showdown. They had their chance to wrap things up, but they got overconfident and complacent. Washington has taken the play to them, and now they have all the momentum at home. Throw in the Flyers and particularly Biron's struggles in back to back games, and you've got a recipe for disaster. Maybe they can surprise everyone, but things are not looking good. Adjustments need to be made, and players need to start winning their one on one battles. They got off to the fast start they needed to last night, but then they tried to protect the lead. Sitting back does not work, and it will not work again tonight.
Hopefully this isn't the last time I plug Bill Meltzer on HockeyBuzz.
It's what every Flyers fan feared; it's a one game series in Washington. The Flyers needed one game to win, and they coughed up their two game series lead. All bets are off now. The regular season doesn't matter. Games 1-6 don't matter. Throw out any stats or trends. One mistake, one penalty, one save changes everything. Actually, before we throw out trends: 20 teams have failed to hold their 3-1 series lead. The Flyers have been that team twice. We all remember the Lindros/Stevens incident from eight years ago, but the time before that? Against these same Capitals 20 years ago.
I'm just not very confident heading into tonight's showdown. They had their chance to wrap things up, but they got overconfident and complacent. Washington has taken the play to them, and now they have all the momentum at home. Throw in the Flyers and particularly Biron's struggles in back to back games, and you've got a recipe for disaster. Maybe they can surprise everyone, but things are not looking good. Adjustments need to be made, and players need to start winning their one on one battles. They got off to the fast start they needed to last night, but then they tried to protect the lead. Sitting back does not work, and it will not work again tonight.
Hopefully this isn't the last time I plug Bill Meltzer on HockeyBuzz.
Monday, April 21, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 6: Capitals at Flyers (2-3)
Cristobal Huet v. Martin Biron
The Capitals kept the series alive Saturday afternoon, when they got off to a fast start and just managed to hang on. They played like a desperate team, and the Flyers didn't bring the energy to match it. Tonight, that has to be much different. The Flyers have to start fast and dictate the pace. They need to come out and punish Washington and win battles in the corners and for loose pucks.
What will they do with Mike Knuble? Bill Meltzer will have the answer shortly. He's very good in front of the net on the power play, and he's a responsible two way player. He obviously scored the clutch 2OT goal, and he's a pretty underrated player. I'd imagine Hartnell will take his place on the PP since he's another big body that can pick up the trash when necessary.
Bill Meltzer has lines and scratches. Cote will dress again and Thoresen is promoted again.
I said it before Game 4 and I'll say it here again. Whoever wins this game wins the series. Obviously this will wrap up things for the Flyers, but if the Caps come away with another, they're going to have all the momentum back in their building. Not a good situation to be in.
The Capitals kept the series alive Saturday afternoon, when they got off to a fast start and just managed to hang on. They played like a desperate team, and the Flyers didn't bring the energy to match it. Tonight, that has to be much different. The Flyers have to start fast and dictate the pace. They need to come out and punish Washington and win battles in the corners and for loose pucks.
What will they do with Mike Knuble? Bill Meltzer will have the answer shortly. He's very good in front of the net on the power play, and he's a responsible two way player. He obviously scored the clutch 2OT goal, and he's a pretty underrated player. I'd imagine Hartnell will take his place on the PP since he's another big body that can pick up the trash when necessary.
Bill Meltzer has lines and scratches. Cote will dress again and Thoresen is promoted again.
I said it before Game 4 and I'll say it here again. Whoever wins this game wins the series. Obviously this will wrap up things for the Flyers, but if the Caps come away with another, they're going to have all the momentum back in their building. Not a good situation to be in.
Sunday, April 20, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 1: Sixers at Pistons (1-0) POSTGAME
The Sixers pulled off the upset and defeated Detroit 90-86. It's only one game of a 7 game series, but this was one that was expected to be over before it started. They don't match up against the Pistons at all, and it's good experience for the young team to get a series lead.
Reggie Evans played one of, if not the best, games of his career. He scored 11 points and pulled down 14 rebounds. He's normally a liability on offense, but he provided good energy and even hit 3 out of 4 free throws. Willie Green was another unexpected hero tonight. He was 7 of 11 from the floor and was second on the team in scoring.
Free throws cannot be an issue. They were bad in the regular season, and the best player on the roster didn't even play tonight. They missed some key ones down the stretch but managed to come away with the W anyway. To pull off upsets, the underdog can't cough up opportunities to let the favorite back in it. They were lucky tonight, but it might not be the case next game.
Reggie Evans played one of, if not the best, games of his career. He scored 11 points and pulled down 14 rebounds. He's normally a liability on offense, but he provided good energy and even hit 3 out of 4 free throws. Willie Green was another unexpected hero tonight. He was 7 of 11 from the floor and was second on the team in scoring.
Free throws cannot be an issue. They were bad in the regular season, and the best player on the roster didn't even play tonight. They missed some key ones down the stretch but managed to come away with the W anyway. To pull off upsets, the underdog can't cough up opportunities to let the favorite back in it. They were lucky tonight, but it might not be the case next game.
Rollins And Snelling DL'd; Harman And Bohn Up
The Phillies' website tells us more.
Obviously, Jimmy Rollins has that ankle injury that he suffered in the Mets' home opener. The organization didn't handle this one very well. It was initially diagnosed as an ankle sprain, and even though Rollins wants to play badly, they have to hold him out of the games. That's not the kind of injury you can just come back from immediately, and he could've spent these past couple weeks rehabbing. It left the Phillies short a man on the bench, and no one benefited from how this was handled. You can make the case that he won't be back in 15 days anyway, but the will he or won't he dramatics didn't help anyone.
Chris Snelling was hurt, and no one knew. It's a knee injury, so who knows when he'll be back. He hit that home run which was great, and I like him on the roster over So Taguchi.
Brad Harman will take the place of Rollins on the roster for the time being. He was the only other infielder on the 40 man roster, so it made sense to bring him up. He's swinging the bat pretty poorly right now, but there's a question of whether or not he'll actually play at all. His prospect status is decent because of his bat, not his glove. That's not good news for people who aren't happy with Bruntlett's glove. He probably won't be able to play SS in the majors.
Bohn was claimed on waivers late last season. He has decent speed and a decent glove, which is probably okay for a backup OF. I doubt he'll play that much.
Obviously, Jimmy Rollins has that ankle injury that he suffered in the Mets' home opener. The organization didn't handle this one very well. It was initially diagnosed as an ankle sprain, and even though Rollins wants to play badly, they have to hold him out of the games. That's not the kind of injury you can just come back from immediately, and he could've spent these past couple weeks rehabbing. It left the Phillies short a man on the bench, and no one benefited from how this was handled. You can make the case that he won't be back in 15 days anyway, but the will he or won't he dramatics didn't help anyone.
Chris Snelling was hurt, and no one knew. It's a knee injury, so who knows when he'll be back. He hit that home run which was great, and I like him on the roster over So Taguchi.
Brad Harman will take the place of Rollins on the roster for the time being. He was the only other infielder on the 40 man roster, so it made sense to bring him up. He's swinging the bat pretty poorly right now, but there's a question of whether or not he'll actually play at all. His prospect status is decent because of his bat, not his glove. That's not good news for people who aren't happy with Bruntlett's glove. He probably won't be able to play SS in the majors.
Bohn was claimed on waivers late last season. He has decent speed and a decent glove, which is probably okay for a backup OF. I doubt he'll play that much.
Game 19: Mets at Phillies (3/3)
New York Mets: 10-6
Philadelphia Phillies: 8-10
Mike Pelfrey (2-0 1.50 ERA, 1-1 3.60 ERA)
Adam Eaton (0-0 4.12 ERA, 5-0 2.90 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Reyes SS 4/12, 1 RBI, .333/.467/.333
Church RF 2/11, 2 RBI, .182/.250/.182
Wright 3B 1/13, .077/.333/.154
Beltran CF 5/13, 2 HR, 5 RBI, .385/.467/.923
Delgado 1B 3/13, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .231/.333/.538
Pagan LF 2/3, .667/.667/1.000
Schneider C 2/13, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .154/.214/.385
Castillo 2B 4/17, 1 RBI, .235/.381/.294
Pelfrey P
Taguchi CF N/A
Dobbs 3B 1/2, 1 RBI, .500/.500/1.000
Utley 2B 1/6, 1 RBI, .167/.167/.333
Howard 1B 1/5, .200/.333/.200
Burrell LF 1/2, .500/.750/.500
Jenkins RF 1/5, .200/.200/.200
Ruiz C 1/4, 1 RBI, .250/.250/.250
Bruntlett SS 0/2, .000/.333/.000
It's time for the Phillies to stop wasting Adam Eaton's starts. We've been very fortunate to get some good outings out of him this season, and we have nothing to show for it. It's probably only a matter of time until the other shoe drops, so the Phillies need to take advantage while they can.
To beat the Mets, the Phillies need to be the team getting off to a fast start, not New York. They've scored in the first inning in both games so far, and the Phillies have been in a hole immediately. It's taken a while for them to get their bats going in the last two games, and getting on the scoreboard early will help a lot.
Eaton P
Philadelphia Phillies: 8-10
Mike Pelfrey (2-0 1.50 ERA, 1-1 3.60 ERA)
Adam Eaton (0-0 4.12 ERA, 5-0 2.90 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Reyes SS 4/12, 1 RBI, .333/.467/.333
Church RF 2/11, 2 RBI, .182/.250/.182
Wright 3B 1/13, .077/.333/.154
Beltran CF 5/13, 2 HR, 5 RBI, .385/.467/.923
Delgado 1B 3/13, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .231/.333/.538
Pagan LF 2/3, .667/.667/1.000
Schneider C 2/13, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .154/.214/.385
Castillo 2B 4/17, 1 RBI, .235/.381/.294
Pelfrey P
Taguchi CF N/A
Dobbs 3B 1/2, 1 RBI, .500/.500/1.000
Utley 2B 1/6, 1 RBI, .167/.167/.333
Howard 1B 1/5, .200/.333/.200
Burrell LF 1/2, .500/.750/.500
Jenkins RF 1/5, .200/.200/.200
Ruiz C 1/4, 1 RBI, .250/.250/.250
Bruntlett SS 0/2, .000/.333/.000
It's time for the Phillies to stop wasting Adam Eaton's starts. We've been very fortunate to get some good outings out of him this season, and we have nothing to show for it. It's probably only a matter of time until the other shoe drops, so the Phillies need to take advantage while they can.
To beat the Mets, the Phillies need to be the team getting off to a fast start, not New York. They've scored in the first inning in both games so far, and the Phillies have been in a hole immediately. It's taken a while for them to get their bats going in the last two games, and getting on the scoreboard early will help a lot.
Eaton P
Knuble Tears Hamstring... Partially
Here's a report from Chuck Gormley, but you can find the news in dozens of places.
He injured himself on a penalty kill when he went down to the ice to block a shot from Mike Green. Green passed the puck, and Knuble tried to get back up, but his skate got caught in their ice surface and he got hurt.
This is a tough loss for the Flyers. He's going to miss the rest of the series for sure, and there's a good chance he misses some games in the second round, if the Flyers wrap things up with Washington. He's very good on the PP, and his goal in Game 4 was huge.
Who do the Flyers add to the lineup? A lot of fans want to see Steve Downie because he can add what we're losing with the Knuble injury. He's better offensively than Riley Cote, but if Cote has played over Downie all year, why would Stevens change that now? Either Kapanen or Thoresen will move up to the Carter line now. That's too bad because even as well as Kapanen's been playing, it's going to disrupt what that very productive line had going.
He injured himself on a penalty kill when he went down to the ice to block a shot from Mike Green. Green passed the puck, and Knuble tried to get back up, but his skate got caught in their ice surface and he got hurt.
This is a tough loss for the Flyers. He's going to miss the rest of the series for sure, and there's a good chance he misses some games in the second round, if the Flyers wrap things up with Washington. He's very good on the PP, and his goal in Game 4 was huge.
Who do the Flyers add to the lineup? A lot of fans want to see Steve Downie because he can add what we're losing with the Knuble injury. He's better offensively than Riley Cote, but if Cote has played over Downie all year, why would Stevens change that now? Either Kapanen or Thoresen will move up to the Carter line now. That's too bad because even as well as Kapanen's been playing, it's going to disrupt what that very productive line had going.
Saturday, April 19, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 5: Flyers at Capitals (3-2) POSTGAME
Obviously there was no preview today, so I'll at least talk about the game.
When I got in around 2:30, about halfway through the second period, the Flyers were getting outplayed badly. They were being outhit, outshot, and outgoaled with a score of 2-0. That's when things really started to click. They got some PP time, and Prospal scored to make it a one goal game. All of a sudden, things were going the Flyers' way. They were winning battles along the boards, creating turnovers and getting some nice chances. Unfortunately, some untimely penalties led to an insurance goal for Washington, and the Hatcher goal several moments later wouldn't be enough.
The series will now come back to Philadelphia for a game six on Monday night. The Flyers need to wrap it up here. If they let things go back to Washington, the Capitals are going to have all the momentum and could be tough to stop. The Flyers are a better team, and they need to show it.
When I got in around 2:30, about halfway through the second period, the Flyers were getting outplayed badly. They were being outhit, outshot, and outgoaled with a score of 2-0. That's when things really started to click. They got some PP time, and Prospal scored to make it a one goal game. All of a sudden, things were going the Flyers' way. They were winning battles along the boards, creating turnovers and getting some nice chances. Unfortunately, some untimely penalties led to an insurance goal for Washington, and the Hatcher goal several moments later wouldn't be enough.
The series will now come back to Philadelphia for a game six on Monday night. The Flyers need to wrap it up here. If they let things go back to Washington, the Capitals are going to have all the momentum and could be tough to stop. The Flyers are a better team, and they need to show it.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 4: Capitals at Flyers (1-2)
Cristobel Huet v. Martin Biron
The game is about to start, so this will be a quick one. What do the Flyers need to do to win? They have to continue to frustrate the Capitals. They're imposing their will on Washington, and things are starting to get tough for them. When Mike Green dropped the gloves with Scottie Upshall, Washington was basically saying that they're playing Flyers hockey. The goal for teams is to set the tempo, not go along with it. Now they're resorting to tactics like diving and embellishing to try and gain an edge. The Flyers need to keep their composure and take advantage of their opportunities.
The game is about to start, so this will be a quick one. What do the Flyers need to do to win? They have to continue to frustrate the Capitals. They're imposing their will on Washington, and things are starting to get tough for them. When Mike Green dropped the gloves with Scottie Upshall, Washington was basically saying that they're playing Flyers hockey. The goal for teams is to set the tempo, not go along with it. Now they're resorting to tactics like diving and embellishing to try and gain an edge. The Flyers need to keep their composure and take advantage of their opportunities.
Game 16: Astros at Phillies (3/3)
Houston Astros: 6-9
Philadelphia Phillies: 7-8
Brandon Backe (1-1 2.25 ERA, 0-0 6.75 ERA)
Brett Myers (1-1 5.00 ERA, 2-2 5.59 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Bourn CF N/A
Loretta 2B 6/18, 1 RBI, .333/.368/.333
Berkman 1B 2/14, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .143/.294/.357
Lee LF 3/5, 2 HR, 5 RBI, .600/.600/1.800
Tejada SS 2/3, 1 RBI, .667/.800/1.000
Blum 3B 0/6, .000/.143/.000
Pence RF N/A
Ausmus C 5/11, .455/.500/.545
Backe P
Werth CF 0/3
Utley 2B 0/2, 1 RBI
Burrell LF 0/1, .000/.500/.000
Howard 1B 1/2, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .500/.500/2.000
Jenkins RF 3/7, 1 RBI, .429/.429/.571
Feliz 3B 0/2
Coste C N/A
Bruntlett SS N/A
Myers P
The offense has to get going. For the most part, they've been shut down the past two games, and even over the entire season, I don't think they're hitting as well as they can yet. The problems may start and end with Ryan Howard. With Utley and Burrell hitting well, Howard's the guy in the middle of the lineup that's yet to get off the ground. It's only a matter of time.
Once again, without Rollins and Victorino, no one knows what's going on at the top of the lineup. I still think Werth leading off and sliding Utley up one is the best idea. Hopefully one or both of them can make it back soon.
Philadelphia Phillies: 7-8
Brandon Backe (1-1 2.25 ERA, 0-0 6.75 ERA)
Brett Myers (1-1 5.00 ERA, 2-2 5.59 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Bourn CF N/A
Loretta 2B 6/18, 1 RBI, .333/.368/.333
Berkman 1B 2/14, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .143/.294/.357
Lee LF 3/5, 2 HR, 5 RBI, .600/.600/1.800
Tejada SS 2/3, 1 RBI, .667/.800/1.000
Blum 3B 0/6, .000/.143/.000
Pence RF N/A
Ausmus C 5/11, .455/.500/.545
Backe P
Werth CF 0/3
Utley 2B 0/2, 1 RBI
Burrell LF 0/1, .000/.500/.000
Howard 1B 1/2, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .500/.500/2.000
Jenkins RF 3/7, 1 RBI, .429/.429/.571
Feliz 3B 0/2
Coste C N/A
Bruntlett SS N/A
Myers P
The offense has to get going. For the most part, they've been shut down the past two games, and even over the entire season, I don't think they're hitting as well as they can yet. The problems may start and end with Ryan Howard. With Utley and Burrell hitting well, Howard's the guy in the middle of the lineup that's yet to get off the ground. It's only a matter of time.
Once again, without Rollins and Victorino, no one knows what's going on at the top of the lineup. I still think Werth leading off and sliding Utley up one is the best idea. Hopefully one or both of them can make it back soon.
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 3: Capitals at Flyers (1-1)
Cristobel Huet v. Martin Biron
After maybe their best game of the season, the Flyers return home to the Wachovia Center to try and keep up the momentum gained from their game two victory. In the first period, the penalty kill was tremendous, and they used Washington's aggressiveness against them when they created several rushes up ice, two of which were capitalized on. They tightened up the defense without conservatively sitting back, and Martin Biron played great.
He'll need to keep up his great play tonight. He stood on his head Sunday afternoon and stole the game, but maybe he won't have to be quite that good.
The biggest problem that being on the road presents to Washington is the Flyers now getting last line change. Before, Washington could try and get Ovechkin out against the Modry/Kukkonen pair, which they somehow didn't actually take advantage of. Now, Philadelphia will be able to make sure Timonen and Coburn get out on the ice against his line every time there's a stoppage of play.
Getting contributions from every line was very important in game two. It wasn't necessarily scoring, but every player played a role and helped the team to their 2-0 victory. Obviously two different lines scored the goals, and the two other lines each generated scoring chances and played well defensively. Briere and Prospal helped form a dangerous power play that was very close to scoring several times. Jim Dowd and Sami Kapanen each played strong defense to protect the shutout. If everyone contributes in some way, there might not be a deeper team.
Bill Meltzer has lines and scratches. Will Derian Hatcher play?
After maybe their best game of the season, the Flyers return home to the Wachovia Center to try and keep up the momentum gained from their game two victory. In the first period, the penalty kill was tremendous, and they used Washington's aggressiveness against them when they created several rushes up ice, two of which were capitalized on. They tightened up the defense without conservatively sitting back, and Martin Biron played great.
He'll need to keep up his great play tonight. He stood on his head Sunday afternoon and stole the game, but maybe he won't have to be quite that good.
The biggest problem that being on the road presents to Washington is the Flyers now getting last line change. Before, Washington could try and get Ovechkin out against the Modry/Kukkonen pair, which they somehow didn't actually take advantage of. Now, Philadelphia will be able to make sure Timonen and Coburn get out on the ice against his line every time there's a stoppage of play.
Getting contributions from every line was very important in game two. It wasn't necessarily scoring, but every player played a role and helped the team to their 2-0 victory. Obviously two different lines scored the goals, and the two other lines each generated scoring chances and played well defensively. Briere and Prospal helped form a dangerous power play that was very close to scoring several times. Jim Dowd and Sami Kapanen each played strong defense to protect the shutout. If everyone contributes in some way, there might not be a deeper team.
Bill Meltzer has lines and scratches. Will Derian Hatcher play?
Sunday, April 13, 2008
Eastern Quarters Game 2: Flyers at Capitals (0-1)
Martin Biron v. Cristobel Huet
As I mentioned yesterday, the Flyers obviously coughed up a great opportunity in Friday night's game when they gave up three goals in the 3rd to lose to Washington 5-4. Those three goals were equal to the number of shots the Flyers had in the same period. So if they weren't generating chances and if they weren't playing defense, what did the Flyers do that third period? That's a question John Stevens is going to have to answer.
Martin Biron did not play well in game one, and he will definitely have to be better. The Capitals scored a lot of goals over his shoulder, so maybe he needs to make an adjustment to not go down into his stance so soon. Some lineup adjustments on the blue line could help out as well.
Randy Jones is expected to be back this afternoon, and that leaves John Stevens with a dilemma: who do you take out of the lineup? Unfortunately, a lot of Flyers fans were upset when they woke up this morning and read Stevens saying it's between Lasse Kukkonen and Ryan Parent. Yes, I understand that they're both inexperienced, and yes, I understand that Kukkonen had a pretty bad giveaway on the game winner. However, Jaroslav Modry was on the ice for all five goals. That's not a coincidence. The guy just can't play hockey very well. I don't know if he's not focused because of his dad or if his injury is bothering him, but he hasn't played well. He's hurting the team.
Bill Meltzer has scratches. Whether or not Patrick Thoresen will be in the lineup is the only question about the forwards today.
As I mentioned yesterday, the Flyers obviously coughed up a great opportunity in Friday night's game when they gave up three goals in the 3rd to lose to Washington 5-4. Those three goals were equal to the number of shots the Flyers had in the same period. So if they weren't generating chances and if they weren't playing defense, what did the Flyers do that third period? That's a question John Stevens is going to have to answer.
Martin Biron did not play well in game one, and he will definitely have to be better. The Capitals scored a lot of goals over his shoulder, so maybe he needs to make an adjustment to not go down into his stance so soon. Some lineup adjustments on the blue line could help out as well.
Randy Jones is expected to be back this afternoon, and that leaves John Stevens with a dilemma: who do you take out of the lineup? Unfortunately, a lot of Flyers fans were upset when they woke up this morning and read Stevens saying it's between Lasse Kukkonen and Ryan Parent. Yes, I understand that they're both inexperienced, and yes, I understand that Kukkonen had a pretty bad giveaway on the game winner. However, Jaroslav Modry was on the ice for all five goals. That's not a coincidence. The guy just can't play hockey very well. I don't know if he's not focused because of his dad or if his injury is bothering him, but he hasn't played well. He's hurting the team.
Bill Meltzer has scratches. Whether or not Patrick Thoresen will be in the lineup is the only question about the forwards today.
Game 13: Cubs at Phillies (3/3)
Chicago Cubs: 6-5
Philadelphia Phillies: 6-6
Jason Marquis (0-0 6.75 ERA, 4-3 4.64 ERA)
Jamie Moyer (1-0 4.66 ERA, 2-0 3.75 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Soriano LF 9/44, 4 HR, 8 RBI, .205/.217/.500
Johnson CF 9/27, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .333/.357/.556
Lee 1B 2/3, .667/.667/1.333
Ramirez 3B 0/5, .000/.167/.000
Fukudome RF N/A
DeRosa 2B 3/10, 1 RBI, .300/.364/.400
Cedeno SS 3/8, 1 RBI, .375/.375/.500
Blanco C 3/9, 1 RBI, .333/.333/.333
Marquis P
Werth CF 2/5, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .400/.500/.1000
Utley 2B 6/13, 4 RBI, .462/.462/.538
Burrell LF 10/28, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .357/.486/.536
Howard 1B 2/6, 1 RBI, .333/.556/.333
Jenkins RF 10/32, 6 RBI, .313/.405/.531
Feliz 3B 2/12, .167/.167/.250
Coste C 4/6, 2 RBI, .667/.667/.667
Bruntlett SS 1/2, 1 RBI, .500/.500/.500
Moyer P
That's probably not what either team's lineup will look like, but I tried. Cedeno hits Moyer better than Theriot, so maybe they'll give Ryan a day off. With Victorino now out, no one has any idea what the top of the lineup will look like. The Phillies might play Taguchi in center because he can provide better defense and could be a better fit at the top. Bruntlett may have to go back to the 2 hole for one more game.
There's really no reason to not score at least 5 runs against Jason Marquis today. He's not a good pitcher, and many hitters that could be in the lineup today absolutely own him. The only question that remains about that: will it be enough? You never know what you get from Moyer, and a couple Cubs' hitters have his number as well. The bullpens could be up early in this one.
Philadelphia Phillies: 6-6
Jason Marquis (0-0 6.75 ERA, 4-3 4.64 ERA)
Jamie Moyer (1-0 4.66 ERA, 2-0 3.75 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Soriano LF 9/44, 4 HR, 8 RBI, .205/.217/.500
Johnson CF 9/27, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .333/.357/.556
Lee 1B 2/3, .667/.667/1.333
Ramirez 3B 0/5, .000/.167/.000
Fukudome RF N/A
DeRosa 2B 3/10, 1 RBI, .300/.364/.400
Cedeno SS 3/8, 1 RBI, .375/.375/.500
Blanco C 3/9, 1 RBI, .333/.333/.333
Marquis P
Werth CF 2/5, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .400/.500/.1000
Utley 2B 6/13, 4 RBI, .462/.462/.538
Burrell LF 10/28, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .357/.486/.536
Howard 1B 2/6, 1 RBI, .333/.556/.333
Jenkins RF 10/32, 6 RBI, .313/.405/.531
Feliz 3B 2/12, .167/.167/.250
Coste C 4/6, 2 RBI, .667/.667/.667
Bruntlett SS 1/2, 1 RBI, .500/.500/.500
Moyer P
That's probably not what either team's lineup will look like, but I tried. Cedeno hits Moyer better than Theriot, so maybe they'll give Ryan a day off. With Victorino now out, no one has any idea what the top of the lineup will look like. The Phillies might play Taguchi in center because he can provide better defense and could be a better fit at the top. Bruntlett may have to go back to the 2 hole for one more game.
There's really no reason to not score at least 5 runs against Jason Marquis today. He's not a good pitcher, and many hitters that could be in the lineup today absolutely own him. The only question that remains about that: will it be enough? You never know what you get from Moyer, and a couple Cubs' hitters have his number as well. The bullpens could be up early in this one.
Saturday, April 12, 2008
Victorino to the DL; Chris Snelling Up
Here's the Victorino part from the Inky.
He reinjured his right calf when scoring on a wild pitch. He was taken out of the game an inning later.
It's not good when you re-injure a muscle like this. It wasn't supposed to carry over, and the same injury lingered with him for the final two months of the year. Hopefully he can rest up and return with a better approach at the plate.
Chris Snelling is the logical replacement. He's on the 40 man roster, and he has a little ML experience.
He reinjured his right calf when scoring on a wild pitch. He was taken out of the game an inning later.
It's not good when you re-injure a muscle like this. It wasn't supposed to carry over, and the same injury lingered with him for the final two months of the year. Hopefully he can rest up and return with a better approach at the plate.
Chris Snelling is the logical replacement. He's on the 40 man roster, and he has a little ML experience.
Game 12: Cubs at Phillies (2/3)
Chicago Cubs: 6-4
Philadelphia Phillies: 5-6
Ted Lilly (0-1 9.72 ERA, 1-1 3.46 ERA)
Cole Hamels (1-1 1.20 ERA, 2-1 4.24 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Soriano LF 5/20, 3 HR, 4 RBI, .250/.286/.750
Johnson CF N/A
Lee 1B 0/6
Ramirez 3B 4/8, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .500/.500/1.125
Fukudome RF N/A
Soto C N/A
DeRosa 2B 0/5, .000/.167/.000
Theriot SS 5/10, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .500/.500/.900
Lilly P
Victorino CF 0/4
Werth RF 1/7, .143/.143/.143
Utley 2B 0/3
Howard 1B 1/3, .333/.333/.667
Burrell LF 1/5, .200/.333/.200
Feliz 3B 3/8, 1 HR, 5 RBI, .375/.375/.750
Ruiz C 0/5
Bruntlett SS 0/3
Hamels P
Those numbers look kind of bleak for the Phillies offense tonight. With only six hits, three of them coming from the same guy, against him in their collective careers, it's clear that he's an effective pitcher against the lineup. He's pretty tough against lefties, so hopefully Utley and Howard can hang in there, stay patient and poke in some singles. Feliz has a chance to be good tonight.
A couple days ago, the Phillies added Steve Kline on a minor league deal. He's going to report to Lehigh Valley, and he could earn a promotion if he pitches well for the Iron Pigs. If he does come up, he'll become a situational lefty, but lately, his splits against lefties have declined, and he's not as good as he used to be.
Philadelphia Phillies: 5-6
Ted Lilly (0-1 9.72 ERA, 1-1 3.46 ERA)
Cole Hamels (1-1 1.20 ERA, 2-1 4.24 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Soriano LF 5/20, 3 HR, 4 RBI, .250/.286/.750
Johnson CF N/A
Lee 1B 0/6
Ramirez 3B 4/8, 1 HR, 3 RBI, .500/.500/1.125
Fukudome RF N/A
Soto C N/A
DeRosa 2B 0/5, .000/.167/.000
Theriot SS 5/10, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .500/.500/.900
Lilly P
Victorino CF 0/4
Werth RF 1/7, .143/.143/.143
Utley 2B 0/3
Howard 1B 1/3, .333/.333/.667
Burrell LF 1/5, .200/.333/.200
Feliz 3B 3/8, 1 HR, 5 RBI, .375/.375/.750
Ruiz C 0/5
Bruntlett SS 0/3
Hamels P
Those numbers look kind of bleak for the Phillies offense tonight. With only six hits, three of them coming from the same guy, against him in their collective careers, it's clear that he's an effective pitcher against the lineup. He's pretty tough against lefties, so hopefully Utley and Howard can hang in there, stay patient and poke in some singles. Feliz has a chance to be good tonight.
A couple days ago, the Phillies added Steve Kline on a minor league deal. He's going to report to Lehigh Valley, and he could earn a promotion if he pitches well for the Iron Pigs. If he does come up, he'll become a situational lefty, but lately, his splits against lefties have declined, and he's not as good as he used to be.
Flyers Need To Nut Up
Just not in the way Patrick Thoresen did.
That's really not too funny. That's a tough blow to a guy that's worked hard and done everything asked of him. Everyone can admit he doesn't have a good shot, but he seemed to work well with Richards, and he was good on the penalty kill. It takes a lot of toughness to play on the PK and block shots like he did.
I'd imagine Sami Kapanen will be back in the lineup on Sunday. He's a pretty similar player to Thoresen, and hopefully his flu has cleared up, and he's ready to go.
Last night's third period was a disgrace. I know it's only one game, but that was the most important period of the season to date, and they played one of their worst. They didn't put any pressure on Huet and the Capitals at all, and they played most of it back on their heels. No one wins a hockey game trying to protect a two goal lead with one period left, especially against a team that can score like Washington.
Things started pretty ugly when Donald Brashear of all people scored early on, but the Flyers seemed to settle in. Veterans like Briere, Prospal and Timonen led the team last night, and now that they have a game under their belts, the younger players need to step up too. The Capitals are beatable; let's not forget they allowed four goals themselves. The Flyers need to cut down on the turnovers and think about sitting Modry to strengthen the blue line.
That's really not too funny. That's a tough blow to a guy that's worked hard and done everything asked of him. Everyone can admit he doesn't have a good shot, but he seemed to work well with Richards, and he was good on the penalty kill. It takes a lot of toughness to play on the PK and block shots like he did.
I'd imagine Sami Kapanen will be back in the lineup on Sunday. He's a pretty similar player to Thoresen, and hopefully his flu has cleared up, and he's ready to go.
Last night's third period was a disgrace. I know it's only one game, but that was the most important period of the season to date, and they played one of their worst. They didn't put any pressure on Huet and the Capitals at all, and they played most of it back on their heels. No one wins a hockey game trying to protect a two goal lead with one period left, especially against a team that can score like Washington.
Things started pretty ugly when Donald Brashear of all people scored early on, but the Flyers seemed to settle in. Veterans like Briere, Prospal and Timonen led the team last night, and now that they have a game under their belts, the younger players need to step up too. The Capitals are beatable; let's not forget they allowed four goals themselves. The Flyers need to cut down on the turnovers and think about sitting Modry to strengthen the blue line.
Friday, April 11, 2008
Game 11: Cubs at Phillies (1/3)
Chicago Cubs: 6-3
Philadelphia Phillies 4-6
Carlos Zambrano (1-0 1.32 ERA, 3-2 2.79 ERA)
Brett Myers (0-1 6.30 ERA, 5-3 2.53 ERA)
Tonight's lineups
Soriano LF 4/16, 2 HR, 2 RBI, .250/.294/.625
Fukudome CF N/A
Lee 1B 10/22, 2 HR, 4 RBI, .455/.520/1.000
Ramirez 3B 6/21, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .286/.286/.524
Soto C N/A
DeRosa 2B 3/7, 1 RBI, .429/.429/.429
Theriot SS 1/1, 1.000/1.000/1.000
Zambrano P
Victorino CF 1/4, .250/.400/.250
Dobbs 3B N/A
Utley 2B 2/10, .200/.273/300
Howard 1B 2/10, 1 RBI, .200/.200/.200
Burrell LF 1/9, .111/.111/.111
Jenkins RF 13/47, 2 HR, 8 RBI, .277/.327/.489
Ruiz C N/A
Bruntlett SS 1/6, .167/.286/.167
Myers P
These last two games have proven how much Jimmy Rollins means to this team. We have to replace a guy that does everything with a guy who does nothing in Bruntlett. His errors have cost this team runs in the field, and his bad bat in all aspects of hitting have cost us runs at the plate. Jimmy can't come back soon enough.
Myers has to stop dicking around on the mound, like he said he's been doing this year. Is this why this team gets off to slow starts? They don't realize how much they have to step up their games and how much effort they have to put in to win when things start to count? Myers better show he has something extra tonight. The last two starts have been bad, and fans are already starting to get antsy.
Philadelphia Phillies 4-6
Carlos Zambrano (1-0 1.32 ERA, 3-2 2.79 ERA)
Brett Myers (0-1 6.30 ERA, 5-3 2.53 ERA)
Tonight's lineups
Soriano LF 4/16, 2 HR, 2 RBI, .250/.294/.625
Fukudome CF N/A
Lee 1B 10/22, 2 HR, 4 RBI, .455/.520/1.000
Ramirez 3B 6/21, 1 HR, 4 RBI, .286/.286/.524
Soto C N/A
DeRosa 2B 3/7, 1 RBI, .429/.429/.429
Theriot SS 1/1, 1.000/1.000/1.000
Zambrano P
Victorino CF 1/4, .250/.400/.250
Dobbs 3B N/A
Utley 2B 2/10, .200/.273/300
Howard 1B 2/10, 1 RBI, .200/.200/.200
Burrell LF 1/9, .111/.111/.111
Jenkins RF 13/47, 2 HR, 8 RBI, .277/.327/.489
Ruiz C N/A
Bruntlett SS 1/6, .167/.286/.167
Myers P
These last two games have proven how much Jimmy Rollins means to this team. We have to replace a guy that does everything with a guy who does nothing in Bruntlett. His errors have cost this team runs in the field, and his bad bat in all aspects of hitting have cost us runs at the plate. Jimmy can't come back soon enough.
Myers has to stop dicking around on the mound, like he said he's been doing this year. Is this why this team gets off to slow starts? They don't realize how much they have to step up their games and how much effort they have to put in to win when things start to count? Myers better show he has something extra tonight. The last two starts have been bad, and fans are already starting to get antsy.
Eastern Quarters Game 1: Flyers at Capitals (0-0)
Martin Biron v. Cristobal Huet
The Flyers and Capitals are the last series in the playoffs to get kicked off, but I think they're saving the best for last. This promises to be a great battle between two hot teams with great players on each bench. Neither of these teams came close to the playoffs last season, and their turnaround has been nothing short of incredible.
Martin Biron will be in net and making his first NHL playoff start. It seems kind of surprising, but Buffalo was never good when he was the starter, and Ryan Miller took over by the time they made the playoffs.
I've already outlined what the Flyers have to do to win, so I'm going to focus on the predicted lines for tonight, courtesy of Bill Meltzer.
Prospal - Briere - Hartnell
Thoresen - Richards - Lupul
Upshall - Carter - Knuble
Cote - Dowd - Umberger
Coburn - Timonen
Smith - Modry
Kukkonen - Jones
It's kind of disappointing that Thoresen is on the Richards line ahead of Umberger, and I hope he gets plenty of ice time anyway. Thoresen is really a prototypical fourth line player, and you could put Umberger on the Briere line, and put Hartnell with Richards and Lupul again.
Derian Hatcher could be back at some point during this series. If he's healthy and capable of playing, that would be a huge boost. He's a tough defenseman, and guys like him thrive in the postseason.
The Flyers and Capitals are the last series in the playoffs to get kicked off, but I think they're saving the best for last. This promises to be a great battle between two hot teams with great players on each bench. Neither of these teams came close to the playoffs last season, and their turnaround has been nothing short of incredible.
Martin Biron will be in net and making his first NHL playoff start. It seems kind of surprising, but Buffalo was never good when he was the starter, and Ryan Miller took over by the time they made the playoffs.
I've already outlined what the Flyers have to do to win, so I'm going to focus on the predicted lines for tonight, courtesy of Bill Meltzer.
Prospal - Briere - Hartnell
Thoresen - Richards - Lupul
Upshall - Carter - Knuble
Cote - Dowd - Umberger
Coburn - Timonen
Smith - Modry
Kukkonen - Jones
It's kind of disappointing that Thoresen is on the Richards line ahead of Umberger, and I hope he gets plenty of ice time anyway. Thoresen is really a prototypical fourth line player, and you could put Umberger on the Briere line, and put Hartnell with Richards and Lupul again.
Derian Hatcher could be back at some point during this series. If he's healthy and capable of playing, that would be a huge boost. He's a tough defenseman, and guys like him thrive in the postseason.
Wednesday, April 9, 2008
Game 9: Phillies at Mets (2/3)
Philadelphia Phillies: 4-4
New York Mets: 2-4
Kyle Kendrick (1-0 7.20 ERA, 1-0 2.70 ERA)
Mike Pelfrey (0-0 --- ERA, 0-1 3.60 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Rollins SS 1/3, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .333/.333/1.333
Victorino CF 2/3, .667/.667/.667
Utley 2B 0/3
Howard 1B 0/2, .000/.333/.000
Burrell LF 0/0, .000/1.000/.000
Jenkins RF 0/3
Feliz 3B N/A
Ruiz C 0/2
Kendrick P
Reyes SS 1/2, .500/.667/.500
Pagan LF N/A
Wright 3B 1/3, .333/.333/.333
Beltran CF 0/2, .000/.333/.000
Delgado 1B 2/3, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .667/.667/2.000
Church RF 3/7, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .429/.556/.857
Easley 2B N/A
Schneider C 2/5, 3 RBI, .400/.500/.600
Pelfrey P
Jimmy Rollins is apparently in the lineup and able to play tonight. When he left the game, thousands of Phillies fans were immediately worried. He's irreplaceable at the plate and in the field. No one in the organization brings what he does, and it could've been a big loss. Dobbs might start at 3rd.
When you're facing the Mets, it would be great to have a second lefty in the bullpen. J.C. Romero might not be available to pitch all three games, when he could take advantage of most of their lineup. Pagan, Delgado, Church and Schneider are all lefty batters, and in most lineups Willie Randolph will pencil in this year, three to even four of them could be batting consecutively.
New York Mets: 2-4
Kyle Kendrick (1-0 7.20 ERA, 1-0 2.70 ERA)
Mike Pelfrey (0-0 --- ERA, 0-1 3.60 ERA)
Projected lineups:
Rollins SS 1/3, 1 HR, 2 RBI, .333/.333/1.333
Victorino CF 2/3, .667/.667/.667
Utley 2B 0/3
Howard 1B 0/2, .000/.333/.000
Burrell LF 0/0, .000/1.000/.000
Jenkins RF 0/3
Feliz 3B N/A
Ruiz C 0/2
Kendrick P
Reyes SS 1/2, .500/.667/.500
Pagan LF N/A
Wright 3B 1/3, .333/.333/.333
Beltran CF 0/2, .000/.333/.000
Delgado 1B 2/3, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .667/.667/2.000
Church RF 3/7, 1 HR, 1 RBI, .429/.556/.857
Easley 2B N/A
Schneider C 2/5, 3 RBI, .400/.500/.600
Pelfrey P
Jimmy Rollins is apparently in the lineup and able to play tonight. When he left the game, thousands of Phillies fans were immediately worried. He's irreplaceable at the plate and in the field. No one in the organization brings what he does, and it could've been a big loss. Dobbs might start at 3rd.
When you're facing the Mets, it would be great to have a second lefty in the bullpen. J.C. Romero might not be available to pitch all three games, when he could take advantage of most of their lineup. Pagan, Delgado, Church and Schneider are all lefty batters, and in most lineups Willie Randolph will pencil in this year, three to even four of them could be batting consecutively.
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