Teams like the (payroll ranking) Marlins (30), Rays (29), Athletics (28), Twins (24) and Diamondbacks (23) have always interested me as someone who studies baseball. They are winning despite having some of the lowest payrolls in MLB. These are the top ten reasons that they are succeeding. Check out my interview with Pat Listach, the Manager of the Iowa Cubs, on Micah Hoffpauir at the Vine Line’s Cubs Club Blog.
10. Bomb Droppers
This doesn’t apply to all the teams because power does come late for many young hitters and most of these teams are extremely young, but for the more developed teams like the Marlins who are second in the NL and the Diamondbacks who are fourth, the home run is a major part of how they score runs with low team batting averages.
9. No overpriced fading former stars
Without black holes in their lineups, i.e. players that can’t be released because of hefty contracts and are worth nothing on the trade market (Carlos Delgado), they can use their free money on locking up their young talent to long term contracts (Evan Longoria), being able to afford players they trade for (Dan Haren) or in player development (B.J. Upton). Now they can go after free agents where need-be and make a real run at the World Series (like the Marlins and Diamondbacks do).
8. They win at home
All these teams play extremely well at home and by winning at home they make it less important to win on the road, which can be very tough for many young teams.
7. Have developed players in system or traded for top prospects
Instead of trying to buy World Series through free agencies or through trading away young talent, these teams have taken the time to develop their draft picks (Tampa Bay, Arizona) or trade for other teams top prospects (Florida, Oakland). This way they can use the five years of arbitration before they can get a free agency contract. This is key for these low budget teams if they don’t decide to sign their young players to long-term “cheap” contracts (Longoria, Hanley Ramirez).
6. They score despite bad batting average
Without a ton of firepower these teams have shown they can put up enough runs to win. The Twins rank fourth, the Rays rank fifth and the A’s rank sixth in runs scored in the AL. Also the Diamondbacks and Marlins rank third and sixth in the NL. Now these are not huge rankings but they are scoring enough to win games, which is all that matters.
5. They get on base
These teams do not hit the ball very much, but they have made those hits count because they increase their scoring chances by getting on base. The Athletics are first in the AL in walks, while Tampa Bay is fifth in OBP. Arizona has also separated itself by ranking third in the NL in walks.
4. They win in their own division
Every team but Oakland has a winning record in their division and teams like the Diamondbacks have absolutely dominated their division, separating themselves from everybody else in it. By winning in your own division you not only get a win but push the teams you beat even farther back making the division title even more likely
3. Limiting free base runners
The next two are the most important thing that these teams have learned to do…pitch. They do not let runners on for free, or in other words via the walk or HBP. Minnesota is first and Oakland is third in the AL in walks given up, while Tampa Bay is first in HBP. While in the NL Arizona gives up the fewest walks. All these teams don’t hit for high averages and need to keep the other teams out of as many scoring chances as possible (runners), so by limiting free bases these teams decrease the chances of runs allowed and increase their chances of winning.
2. Don’t allow runs
Because of this trend these low budget teams do not give up a ton of runs. Tampa Bay is fifth and Oakland is third in AL ERA, while Arizona is second in the NL. By decreasing the number of runs allowed these low budget teams can still win without top-level talent on offense. Or in other words without scoring a ton of runs.
1. What separates the Rays from the rest: Fielding
What makes the Rays the best team in the AL? They field the ball. Tampa Bay has committed the fewest errors in the major leagues. They do not make mistakes that put base runners on and advance others on the base paths. Their solid fielding ability is what the other low budget teams need to emphasize in order to make that next step that the Rays have.
Showing posts with label Top Ten Chicago Sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Top Ten Chicago Sports. Show all posts
Monday, June 9, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Top Ten Foreign Born Chicago Athletes (Current)
Chicago is full of foreign born studs and these are the top ten...
10. Israel Idonije
http://www.israelhighway.org/highway-images/football-player.jpg
Idonije was born in Lagos, Nigeria and has been killing people ever since. Need I say more?
9. Cubs Rookies
http://www.aolcdn.com/aolnews_photos/0f/02/20080428015509990013
Kosuke Fukudome and Geovany Soto have been playing lights out this year. Fuk has brought his Japanese game over to America and has filled the five-hole void nicely. Even though he doesn’t hit a ton of HR’s, he gets on base and seems to get the clutch hit every game. Soto, a Purto Rican, has separated himself as the best offensive catcher in the MLB. As a rookie he is just putting up stupid numbers and is playing a solid catcher as well.
8. Aramis Ramirez
http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/em_swift/11/21/cubs.tribune/t1_aramis_si.jpg
This Dominican third basemen picks up the necessary base runners everyday. He is an RBI machine and has played a solid third base the last couple years. Plus he loves to fight cocks.
7. Carlos Marmol
http://z.about.com/d/baseball/1/7/v/4/-/-/cubs20.jpg
This Dominican is 100% lights out. When Marmol steps into the game, it is pretty much over. He has the ability to K anybody in the league. Oh and he has a 1.69 ERA and 46 K’s in 32 innings.
6. Patrick Sharp
http://www.nancarrow-webdesk.com/warehouse/storage2/2007-w46/img.75523_t.jpg
Oh Canada, thanks for our future. Unfortunately for the Hawks once Rose comes to Chitown hockey will become obsolete again.
5. Alfonso Sorianohttp://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper736/stills/v351z49o.jpg
I had no idea where to put him on this list because of his streakiness, but this Dominican can literally become the scariest offensive force in the big leagues so being in the middle seems to fit his two sided offensive attack.
4. Jonathan Toews
http://www.fanatique.ca/images/_profils/image/90_jonathantoews3.jpg
As a rookie he led all rookies in goals…the sky is the limit with this Canadian and next year will be a big year for the Toews and the Hawks as they look to move from a young team to a consistent playoff team.
3. Luol Deng
http://www.jamati.com/online/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/deng.jpg
A member of the Dinka tribe of Sudan, he was raised in Great Britain and learned basketball from Manute Bol in Egypt…interesting, right? Anyway, until this year the Bulls have put their franchise hopes on his back and it will be interesting to see if he can turn into something special.
2. Javier Vazquez
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44080000/jpg/_44080971_javier_getty.jpg
I was shocked to see the lack of players from other countries on the Sox. Sure there are players like Cabrera, but he has not played up to his capabilities so Vazquez seemed like the only viable candidate. His 3.52 ERA and 5-3 record prove the he is the man. To add to that he has strucken out 67 and only walked 15 in 71.2 innings.
1. Carlos Zambrano
http://mydobber.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/CarlosZambrano.jpg
7-1 with a 2.47 ERA. Pretty good, right? Now that Brandon Webb has lost his second game in a row, Zambrano might have taken the lead in the NL Cy Young voting. The Venezuelan has dropped his K numbers but he is attacking the strike zone and limiting his walks, leading to a low ERA and high win percentage. And don't forget "Big Z" also drops bombs...he's just good.
10. Israel Idonije
http://www.israelhighway.org/highway-images/football-player.jpg
Idonije was born in Lagos, Nigeria and has been killing people ever since. Need I say more?
9. Cubs Rookies
http://www.aolcdn.com/aolnews_photos/0f/02/20080428015509990013
Kosuke Fukudome and Geovany Soto have been playing lights out this year. Fuk has brought his Japanese game over to America and has filled the five-hole void nicely. Even though he doesn’t hit a ton of HR’s, he gets on base and seems to get the clutch hit every game. Soto, a Purto Rican, has separated himself as the best offensive catcher in the MLB. As a rookie he is just putting up stupid numbers and is playing a solid catcher as well.
8. Aramis Ramirez
http://i.a.cnn.net/si/2006/writers/em_swift/11/21/cubs.tribune/t1_aramis_si.jpg
This Dominican third basemen picks up the necessary base runners everyday. He is an RBI machine and has played a solid third base the last couple years. Plus he loves to fight cocks.
7. Carlos Marmol
http://z.about.com/d/baseball/1/7/v/4/-/-/cubs20.jpg
This Dominican is 100% lights out. When Marmol steps into the game, it is pretty much over. He has the ability to K anybody in the league. Oh and he has a 1.69 ERA and 46 K’s in 32 innings.
6. Patrick Sharp
http://www.nancarrow-webdesk.com/warehouse/storage2/2007-w46/img.75523_t.jpg
Oh Canada, thanks for our future. Unfortunately for the Hawks once Rose comes to Chitown hockey will become obsolete again.
5. Alfonso Sorianohttp://media.collegepublisher.com/media/paper736/stills/v351z49o.jpg
I had no idea where to put him on this list because of his streakiness, but this Dominican can literally become the scariest offensive force in the big leagues so being in the middle seems to fit his two sided offensive attack.
4. Jonathan Toews
http://www.fanatique.ca/images/_profils/image/90_jonathantoews3.jpg
As a rookie he led all rookies in goals…the sky is the limit with this Canadian and next year will be a big year for the Toews and the Hawks as they look to move from a young team to a consistent playoff team.
3. Luol Deng
http://www.jamati.com/online/wp-content/uploads/2008/03/deng.jpg
A member of the Dinka tribe of Sudan, he was raised in Great Britain and learned basketball from Manute Bol in Egypt…interesting, right? Anyway, until this year the Bulls have put their franchise hopes on his back and it will be interesting to see if he can turn into something special.
2. Javier Vazquez
http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/media/images/44080000/jpg/_44080971_javier_getty.jpg
I was shocked to see the lack of players from other countries on the Sox. Sure there are players like Cabrera, but he has not played up to his capabilities so Vazquez seemed like the only viable candidate. His 3.52 ERA and 5-3 record prove the he is the man. To add to that he has strucken out 67 and only walked 15 in 71.2 innings.
1. Carlos Zambrano
http://mydobber.com/blog/wp-content/uploads/2007/02/CarlosZambrano.jpg
7-1 with a 2.47 ERA. Pretty good, right? Now that Brandon Webb has lost his second game in a row, Zambrano might have taken the lead in the NL Cy Young voting. The Venezuelan has dropped his K numbers but he is attacking the strike zone and limiting his walks, leading to a low ERA and high win percentage. And don't forget "Big Z" also drops bombs...he's just good.
Thursday, May 22, 2008
Top Ten 2008 MLB's most interesting salaries/payrolls
The average MLB player salary has jumped over 13% in the last two years and it is interesting to see where all that money is going and not going. These are the Top Ten most interesting salaries and payrolls in MLB.
10. Carlos Beltran, NYM - $18,622,809
Never has a player made so much money off of a month and a half of solid baseball than Beltran. His potential is outrageous, but the Puerto Rican has not lived up to his monstrous contract. Beltran can either look like the best player in the league or simply over matched. Not a good attribute to have when your making over 18 mil a year.
9. Jim Thome, CHW - $15,666,666
This is only an interesting contract because how poorly Thome is playing this year. Without a doubt he has lived up to his money most years but the aging slugger has lost a bit of bat speed and is not at the same value as before. GM’s should try to front end contracts so they aren’t left with 15-20 mil dollar aging liabilities like Thome appears to have become.
8. Jason Giambi, NYY - $23,428,571
2nd on the MLB money list, the one time star has been in the middle of the steroid controversy and has seen his skill deteriorate exponentially since his vision started going bad a couple years ago. The money he makes to his production is utterly embarrassing.
7. Prince Fielder, MIL - $670,000
This is kind of sad how the Brewers are treating Fielder. The man hit 50 HR last year with 119 RBI. I know you’re the Brewers but either lock his ass up or trade him for some young MLB ready talent. The problem is that not many teams are looking for a 1B right now…good luck with that Milwaukee.
6. Carlos Quentin, CHW – 400,000
Quentin is third in the MLB in RBI with 37 and tied for sixth in the MLB with 11 HR. Not bad for an outfielder who wasn’t even supposed to make the 25 man roster. Kenny do your team a favor and pay the man as soon as he proves this isn’t a fluke.
5. Mike Hampton, ATL - $15,975,184
Is 14th on the money list and has once again not thrown a pitch all year. In his career the lefty has sucked out over 122 million dollars from various teams. Hampton hasn’t thrown a ball in a major league game since 2005, when he only pitched in 12 games.
4. Barry Zito, San Francisco - $14,500,000
The one time Cy Young Award winner is pitching like a good high school pitcher…there’s nothing really to say here that hasn’t already. Zito has just been bad.
3. Tampa Bay Rays - $43,820,598
With the 29th overall payroll in MLB the Rays have dropped the Devil and are only one game behind the 133 mil dollar payroll of the Red Sox. Every win is a new record for the Rays and they have invested wisely in their top pitcher in Scott Kazmir and best prospect in Evan Longoria. It looks likes having a top three draft pick every year does pay off…who new?
2. Florida Marlins - $21,836,500
With the 30th ranked payroll, the Marlins have some how been able to take over first place in the NL East. Talent does beat ill-placed money and the Marlins have proven that year after year. When they decide to add some expensive vets to the mix in the next couple years, look for the Marlin to once again be living in post season glory.
1. NY Yankees - $209,081,579
With the highest salary in the league, the Yankees are struggling mightily. They are the proof that overpriced, under motivated old FA’s are not the way to build a franchise. The Yanks are looking to get younger and will be losing major salaries in Giambi and Mussina, but this year is looking like a disaster.
Blatant self promotion: Check out another part of my interview with Oneri Fleita, Cubs VP of Player Personnel at the Vine Line's Cubs Club Blog. Topic of the day is Rich Hill and Kevin Hart.
10. Carlos Beltran, NYM - $18,622,809
Never has a player made so much money off of a month and a half of solid baseball than Beltran. His potential is outrageous, but the Puerto Rican has not lived up to his monstrous contract. Beltran can either look like the best player in the league or simply over matched. Not a good attribute to have when your making over 18 mil a year.
9. Jim Thome, CHW - $15,666,666
This is only an interesting contract because how poorly Thome is playing this year. Without a doubt he has lived up to his money most years but the aging slugger has lost a bit of bat speed and is not at the same value as before. GM’s should try to front end contracts so they aren’t left with 15-20 mil dollar aging liabilities like Thome appears to have become.
8. Jason Giambi, NYY - $23,428,571
2nd on the MLB money list, the one time star has been in the middle of the steroid controversy and has seen his skill deteriorate exponentially since his vision started going bad a couple years ago. The money he makes to his production is utterly embarrassing.
7. Prince Fielder, MIL - $670,000
This is kind of sad how the Brewers are treating Fielder. The man hit 50 HR last year with 119 RBI. I know you’re the Brewers but either lock his ass up or trade him for some young MLB ready talent. The problem is that not many teams are looking for a 1B right now…good luck with that Milwaukee.
6. Carlos Quentin, CHW – 400,000
Quentin is third in the MLB in RBI with 37 and tied for sixth in the MLB with 11 HR. Not bad for an outfielder who wasn’t even supposed to make the 25 man roster. Kenny do your team a favor and pay the man as soon as he proves this isn’t a fluke.
5. Mike Hampton, ATL - $15,975,184
Is 14th on the money list and has once again not thrown a pitch all year. In his career the lefty has sucked out over 122 million dollars from various teams. Hampton hasn’t thrown a ball in a major league game since 2005, when he only pitched in 12 games.
4. Barry Zito, San Francisco - $14,500,000
The one time Cy Young Award winner is pitching like a good high school pitcher…there’s nothing really to say here that hasn’t already. Zito has just been bad.
3. Tampa Bay Rays - $43,820,598
With the 29th overall payroll in MLB the Rays have dropped the Devil and are only one game behind the 133 mil dollar payroll of the Red Sox. Every win is a new record for the Rays and they have invested wisely in their top pitcher in Scott Kazmir and best prospect in Evan Longoria. It looks likes having a top three draft pick every year does pay off…who new?
2. Florida Marlins - $21,836,500
With the 30th ranked payroll, the Marlins have some how been able to take over first place in the NL East. Talent does beat ill-placed money and the Marlins have proven that year after year. When they decide to add some expensive vets to the mix in the next couple years, look for the Marlin to once again be living in post season glory.
1. NY Yankees - $209,081,579
With the highest salary in the league, the Yankees are struggling mightily. They are the proof that overpriced, under motivated old FA’s are not the way to build a franchise. The Yanks are looking to get younger and will be losing major salaries in Giambi and Mussina, but this year is looking like a disaster.
Blatant self promotion: Check out another part of my interview with Oneri Fleita, Cubs VP of Player Personnel at the Vine Line's Cubs Club Blog. Topic of the day is Rich Hill and Kevin Hart.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
Top Ten Reason to Love and Hate John Paxon
These are the top ten reasons to love and hate John Paxson.
Top Five Reasons to Love John Paxson
5. He played for Notre Dame
Whatever...WE ARE ND!
4. The hiring Scott Skiles
For a few years Skiles seemed to be able to get the most out of a bunch of good players. They played hard for Skiles and played balls out on both sides of the ball, which is hard to find in the NBA these days.
http://www.halfcourt.info/A55B25/HalfCourt.nsf/Scott_Skiles_001.jpg
3. He broke up the mess Jerry Krause made
Krause went from genius to complete moron. He traded an all-star team for a couple of high school centers. Nice job Jerry. However, Pax slowly and methodically traded, drafted and signed a team that was without any of Krause’s legacy and turned the Bulls into winners.
http://www.nba.com/media/bulls/krause_050819.jpg
2. The way he tried to rebuild the Bulls
So it didn’t workout in the end, but Pax had a plan and his original philosophy of building a rock solid defense-first team was the right idea and hiring Scott Skiles was the right choice for that philosophy. It looked like it was working until Skiles lost control.
http://hoopedia.nba.com/images/4/4d/Paxson1.jpg
1. The shot he drilled in the 1993 NBA Finals to beat the Suns
Can you say clutch. After Jordan forced a double, he kicked it out to Pax who hit the biggest shot of his career, topping off the bulls first three-peat.
http://www.classicathletes.com/wp-content/paxson.jpg
Top Five Reasons to Hate John Paxson
5. His middle name is MacBeth
I am assuming his parents tried to name him after the Shakespeare play, unfortunately they didn’t get it quite right. Shakespeare spelled it “Macbeth.” Honestly, it’s just a lame way to try and to make your kid sound smart.
http://www.rdaniel.net/images/work/Macbeth.jpg
4. He was born in Ohio
After going to school in Ohio, I completely hate everything that has anything to do with that state. We get it you like the Buckeyes. I’m sorry your “professional” teams are a joke and all of your “cities” don’t even add up to half of Chicago. Just please stop taking it out on the rest of us.
http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa136/mgoblue2222/ohiosucks.jpg
3. He signed Ben Wallace
A defensive force and leader is what Pax saw in this specialist. What he should have seen was an aging one-dimensional liability. You can’t trust anyone with a massive fro…I knew that in the third grade.
http://www.need4sheed.com/images/jan5_ben.jpg
2. He didn’t sign Mike D’Antoni
Now I can’t completely blame Pax for this because he doesn’t control the money, but part of his job is to convince the brass to pony up the cash to get a proven winner and franchise changing coach.
www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/91443
1. He didn’t trade for KOBE BRYANT!
LONG SIGH. How can you not trade for the best player in the league for a couple of solid role players? It makes me feel O.K. about myself for loosing interest in the Bulls after Jordan. Pax, I know for a fact Bryant is your favorite player in the NBA. Why didn’t you just pull the trigger and get the deal done? Instead of looking for a new coach, you would be basking in round two of the playoffs now. This sucks.
http://jessebastien.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/559925938_5235daadc_o.jpg
Top Five Reasons to Love John Paxson
5. He played for Notre Dame
Whatever...WE ARE ND!
4. The hiring Scott Skiles
For a few years Skiles seemed to be able to get the most out of a bunch of good players. They played hard for Skiles and played balls out on both sides of the ball, which is hard to find in the NBA these days.
http://www.halfcourt.info/A55B25/HalfCourt.nsf/Scott_Skiles_001.jpg
3. He broke up the mess Jerry Krause made
Krause went from genius to complete moron. He traded an all-star team for a couple of high school centers. Nice job Jerry. However, Pax slowly and methodically traded, drafted and signed a team that was without any of Krause’s legacy and turned the Bulls into winners.
http://www.nba.com/media/bulls/krause_050819.jpg
2. The way he tried to rebuild the Bulls
So it didn’t workout in the end, but Pax had a plan and his original philosophy of building a rock solid defense-first team was the right idea and hiring Scott Skiles was the right choice for that philosophy. It looked like it was working until Skiles lost control.
http://hoopedia.nba.com/images/4/4d/Paxson1.jpg
1. The shot he drilled in the 1993 NBA Finals to beat the Suns
Can you say clutch. After Jordan forced a double, he kicked it out to Pax who hit the biggest shot of his career, topping off the bulls first three-peat.
http://www.classicathletes.com/wp-content/paxson.jpg
Top Five Reasons to Hate John Paxson
5. His middle name is MacBeth
I am assuming his parents tried to name him after the Shakespeare play, unfortunately they didn’t get it quite right. Shakespeare spelled it “Macbeth.” Honestly, it’s just a lame way to try and to make your kid sound smart.
http://www.rdaniel.net/images/work/Macbeth.jpg
4. He was born in Ohio
After going to school in Ohio, I completely hate everything that has anything to do with that state. We get it you like the Buckeyes. I’m sorry your “professional” teams are a joke and all of your “cities” don’t even add up to half of Chicago. Just please stop taking it out on the rest of us.
http://i201.photobucket.com/albums/aa136/mgoblue2222/ohiosucks.jpg
3. He signed Ben Wallace
A defensive force and leader is what Pax saw in this specialist. What he should have seen was an aging one-dimensional liability. You can’t trust anyone with a massive fro…I knew that in the third grade.
http://www.need4sheed.com/images/jan5_ben.jpg
2. He didn’t sign Mike D’Antoni
Now I can’t completely blame Pax for this because he doesn’t control the money, but part of his job is to convince the brass to pony up the cash to get a proven winner and franchise changing coach.
www.eastvalleytribune.com/story/91443
1. He didn’t trade for KOBE BRYANT!
LONG SIGH. How can you not trade for the best player in the league for a couple of solid role players? It makes me feel O.K. about myself for loosing interest in the Bulls after Jordan. Pax, I know for a fact Bryant is your favorite player in the NBA. Why didn’t you just pull the trigger and get the deal done? Instead of looking for a new coach, you would be basking in round two of the playoffs now. This sucks.
http://jessebastien.files.wordpress.com/2007/11/559925938_5235daadc_o.jpg
Thursday, May 8, 2008
Top Ten Games We've Been To
Living in Chicago has afforded us the opportunity to partake in some of the most memorable sports moments the city's franchises have had to offer. Everyone has their own story of a particular moment when you knew that instead of being just a spectator, more importantly, you were apart of history. So before I bore you to tears with the theatrics, here's the Top Ten Games Zach Martin and I have been to that involve Chicago sports.
In other words, it's a "My Dad can beat up your Dad" kind of thing, only this time, Martin's Dad actually might have a shot.
Z. Martin's Top 5
5. Super Bowl XLI
Bears vs. Colts
Rocking a real mustache and homemade Ditka costume, I went to Miami prepared to witness the greatest victory since the '85 Bears were doing the Super Bowl Shuffle. For the first 15 minutes, it appeared the prophecy would prove to be true. Devin Hester returned the opening kick for a 92-yard touchdown and before you knew it, the Bears had a 14-6 lead after the first quarter.
We were well on our way to becoming Super Bowl champs until the forces of nature and a total defensive collapse ruined everything.
Even though the Bears lost, it was still an amazing event to attend and I will never forget watching as Hester screamed down the sidelines and into NFL history.
4. Cubs vs. Sox
May 19, 2007
Derek Lee's Grand Slam
This glorious event foreshadowed the disaster Ozzie Guillen and the White Sox have become. In the eighth inning, Guillen went to his bullpen and brought former Cub reliever David Aardsma to hold down a 6-5 lead. Aardsma quickly gave up five hits, a walk and retired only a single Cubs hitter.
It seemed to me like Ozzie had given up on the game because he only had lefty Boone Logan warming up in the pen despite the plethora of right-handed hitters that could step in for left handed hitter Jacque Jones.
Sure enough, the second Logan entered the ballgame, Jones grabbed some bench and injured Cubs first baseman Derek Lee immediately took his place. Like Kirk Gibson and other baseball legends, Lee walked wounded and battered to the plate with hopes of saving the day.
Logan did what all good relievers do; he fell behind 3-0 to guy that was leading the league with a .390 batting average. With a 3-1 count, Lee smashed a fastball over the right field fence and out of Wrigley for a grand-slam , destroying all hopes of a South Side victory.
I have never in my life heard Wrigley that loud, nor have I ever seen the Cub faithful go that crazy. That day will live forever as one of the most exciting games I have ever seen.
3. Bears vs. 49ers
October 28, 2001
The Bears trailed 31-16 with 7:47 left in the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers that Sunday. Somehow, the impregnable Shane Matthews led the Bears on two scoring drives that both ended with a David Terrel (I know WTF) touchdown catch.
After Terrel's second TD, the Bears were still down two with only 26 seconds on the clock and had yet to kick the extra point. Coach Dick Jauron made a BALLSY move and called on Anthony 'A-Train' Thomas to run straight up the gut for the two-point conversion.Thomas appeared to be just short, but after a review, officials said Thomas crossed the goal-line, tying the score 31-31.
As he used to do so lovingly (prior to getting injured every third play), Mike Brown intercepted a pass off the hands of Terrell Owens and returned it for the game-winning touchdown only 16 seconds into overtime.
2. Final Blackhawks Game at Chicago Stadium
Hawks vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
April 28, 1994
There was nothing comparable to seeing a Hawks game at the old Chicago Stadium.
Known as the "Madhouse on Madison, fans took cheering to another level at the "Madhouse".The ice itself was smaller than regulation size, making contests here even more violent and brutal. Verbal (and sometimes physical) altercations with opposing fans, pounding on the glass and screaming during the National Anthem were the norm.
Even though the Hawks lost a well fought battle 1-0, watching the final game will always be burned into my skull as a remorseful, but special day where old Chicago Stadium was being honored.
I will always remember Jeremy Roenick being the last player on the ice, skating around saying good-bye to the screaming fans. He left the ice by throwing one last souvenir of the stadium into the stands; his stick. JR left the fans with a personal touch that could only be felt at the minuscule "Madhouse".
1. Cubs vs. Giants
One Game Playoff
September 28, 1998
I loved Neifi Perez (until he became a Cub at least). Perez lifted the Cubs into a tie with the Giants for the Wild Card in 1998. With a home-run against Rob Nen in the bottom of the ninth, Perez gave his Colorado Rockies a 9-8 win, sending the Cubs and Giants into a one game playoff.
In this game held at Wrigley Field, the Cubs jumped out to an early 2-0 lead behind the strong pitching of Steve Trachsel, who actually carried a no-no in to the seventh (another WTF).
The most memorable play occurred when Gary Gaetti extended the Cubs lead with a huge two-run homer to left. The fans demanded a curtain call and Gary delivered, taking off his helmet revealing a very large bald spot. His homer almost put the game away until the bullpen got involved.
The pen systematically gave up three runs in the ninth until the winning run was at the plate in the form of the notoriously clutch hitter, Joe Carter. Thankfully, Rod Beck used his FAT magic and got Carter to pop out to Mark Grace at first.
I will always remember the intensity of Wrigley, the methodical taunting of Barry Bonds and the two guys sitting behind me chanting 'Hail Marys' between every inning. It was a game that tops every game I have ever been to and probably will ever see.
M. Olsen's Top Five
5. Bears vs. 49ers
November 13, 2005
On perhaps the windiest day in the history of the Windy City, I got a chance to see Nathan Vasher return a missed field goal 108 yards for touchdown.
It was at the end of the first half and considering how the wind was blowing, I figured Joe Nedney's 52-yard field goal attempt was a joke and I could get a head start on the bathroom line. But as I turned to walk up the steps, the crowd in the South end zone starting going nuts and out of nowhere I see Vasher and a gang of Bears blockers flying down the sideline leading him to the promised land.
4. White Sox vs. Twins
June 3, 1990
That's the actual ticket from a White Sox game in 1990 that really didn't have any special importance. The Sox won 90 games that year, good enough for second place in the division.
But - not to get all misty-eyed on ya - this is the first game I remember my old man taking me to and the first game I actually remember attending. Carlton 'Pudge" Fisk, Lance Johnson, Robin Ventura, Ivan Calderon, Ron Kittle and Ozzie Guillen were in the starting lineup that day. 'Blackjack' McDowell was the starting pitcher and Bobby Thigpen came in for the save.
Those guys were legends to me and I'm proud to say I got a chance to see Kirby Puckett take the field at ol' Comiskey, one of the greatest ballparks the world has ever seen.
(And please, look at how much a ticket was in 1990.....almost what you pay for a beer nowadays)
3. Bears vs. Seahawks
October 1, 2006
The Bears were 3-0 heading into this NFC tilt with the defending NFC Champion Seattle Seahawks in 2006. A win against a team like the 'Hawks would legitimize the Bears hopes of making a playoff run that eventually ended with a loss in the Super Bowl.
Seattle went up 3-0 early in the first quarter, but from then on it was all Bears. They scored 20 unanswered points and dominated in every facet of the game. Hasselbeck was sacked five times, threw two interceptions and eventually was knocked out of the game to be replaced by Seneca Wallace.
It was a good ol' fashioned ass-whoopin and a sign of things to come in '06.
2. Bulls vs. Kings
February 28, 1997
There's not much to be said about the Bulls dynasty that hasn't been said already so I'll keep this one short and sweet. I feel blessed to be able to say I saw Michael Jordan on more than one occasion during his career with the Bulls and will never forget the goose-bumps I got during the introductions. "ANNNNNNNNNDDDDD NOWWWWWW!!!!!!!"
M. Jeff lit it up against the Kings that night like we always expected him to. He finished with 35 points, nine rebounds, six assists and teammate Scottie Pippen did some damage with 29 points of his own.
Watching the Bulls of today makes me miss those times more than ever.
1. Bears vs. Packers
September 29, 2003
1st Game at Remodeled Soldier Field
Let's see.
Sunday night game?
Check.
Bears vs. Packers?
Check.
First game ever in the newly remodeled Soldier Field?
Check.
This will always go down in my mind as the most ridiculous event I have ever been to. The atmosphere inside Soldier Field before kickoff was something I'll never forget and the pomp and circumstance that went along with it made the game that much sweeter.
I was at the game this year when the Vikings' Adrian Peterson shredded the Bears for over 200 yards. I've seen Devin Hester return a kick for a touchdown and witnessed his version of the 'SupaMan' dance. I've seen comebacks and heartbreaks.
But nothing will ever compare to the night I was locked into a historical moment with the franchise that has meant so much to me over the years and the thousands of like minded individuals that surrounded me.
In other words, it's a "My Dad can beat up your Dad" kind of thing, only this time, Martin's Dad actually might have a shot.
Z. Martin's Top 5
5. Super Bowl XLI
Bears vs. Colts
Rocking a real mustache and homemade Ditka costume, I went to Miami prepared to witness the greatest victory since the '85 Bears were doing the Super Bowl Shuffle. For the first 15 minutes, it appeared the prophecy would prove to be true. Devin Hester returned the opening kick for a 92-yard touchdown and before you knew it, the Bears had a 14-6 lead after the first quarter.
We were well on our way to becoming Super Bowl champs until the forces of nature and a total defensive collapse ruined everything.
Even though the Bears lost, it was still an amazing event to attend and I will never forget watching as Hester screamed down the sidelines and into NFL history.
4. Cubs vs. Sox
May 19, 2007
Derek Lee's Grand Slam
This glorious event foreshadowed the disaster Ozzie Guillen and the White Sox have become. In the eighth inning, Guillen went to his bullpen and brought former Cub reliever David Aardsma to hold down a 6-5 lead. Aardsma quickly gave up five hits, a walk and retired only a single Cubs hitter.
It seemed to me like Ozzie had given up on the game because he only had lefty Boone Logan warming up in the pen despite the plethora of right-handed hitters that could step in for left handed hitter Jacque Jones.
Sure enough, the second Logan entered the ballgame, Jones grabbed some bench and injured Cubs first baseman Derek Lee immediately took his place. Like Kirk Gibson and other baseball legends, Lee walked wounded and battered to the plate with hopes of saving the day.
Logan did what all good relievers do; he fell behind 3-0 to guy that was leading the league with a .390 batting average. With a 3-1 count, Lee smashed a fastball over the right field fence and out of Wrigley for a grand-slam , destroying all hopes of a South Side victory.
I have never in my life heard Wrigley that loud, nor have I ever seen the Cub faithful go that crazy. That day will live forever as one of the most exciting games I have ever seen.
3. Bears vs. 49ers
October 28, 2001
The Bears trailed 31-16 with 7:47 left in the fourth quarter against the San Francisco 49ers that Sunday. Somehow, the impregnable Shane Matthews led the Bears on two scoring drives that both ended with a David Terrel (I know WTF) touchdown catch.
After Terrel's second TD, the Bears were still down two with only 26 seconds on the clock and had yet to kick the extra point. Coach Dick Jauron made a BALLSY move and called on Anthony 'A-Train' Thomas to run straight up the gut for the two-point conversion.Thomas appeared to be just short, but after a review, officials said Thomas crossed the goal-line, tying the score 31-31.
As he used to do so lovingly (prior to getting injured every third play), Mike Brown intercepted a pass off the hands of Terrell Owens and returned it for the game-winning touchdown only 16 seconds into overtime.
2. Final Blackhawks Game at Chicago Stadium
Hawks vs. Toronto Maple Leafs
April 28, 1994
There was nothing comparable to seeing a Hawks game at the old Chicago Stadium.
Known as the "Madhouse on Madison, fans took cheering to another level at the "Madhouse".The ice itself was smaller than regulation size, making contests here even more violent and brutal. Verbal (and sometimes physical) altercations with opposing fans, pounding on the glass and screaming during the National Anthem were the norm.
Even though the Hawks lost a well fought battle 1-0, watching the final game will always be burned into my skull as a remorseful, but special day where old Chicago Stadium was being honored.
I will always remember Jeremy Roenick being the last player on the ice, skating around saying good-bye to the screaming fans. He left the ice by throwing one last souvenir of the stadium into the stands; his stick. JR left the fans with a personal touch that could only be felt at the minuscule "Madhouse".
1. Cubs vs. Giants
One Game Playoff
September 28, 1998
I loved Neifi Perez (until he became a Cub at least). Perez lifted the Cubs into a tie with the Giants for the Wild Card in 1998. With a home-run against Rob Nen in the bottom of the ninth, Perez gave his Colorado Rockies a 9-8 win, sending the Cubs and Giants into a one game playoff.
In this game held at Wrigley Field, the Cubs jumped out to an early 2-0 lead behind the strong pitching of Steve Trachsel, who actually carried a no-no in to the seventh (another WTF).
The most memorable play occurred when Gary Gaetti extended the Cubs lead with a huge two-run homer to left. The fans demanded a curtain call and Gary delivered, taking off his helmet revealing a very large bald spot. His homer almost put the game away until the bullpen got involved.
The pen systematically gave up three runs in the ninth until the winning run was at the plate in the form of the notoriously clutch hitter, Joe Carter. Thankfully, Rod Beck used his FAT magic and got Carter to pop out to Mark Grace at first.
I will always remember the intensity of Wrigley, the methodical taunting of Barry Bonds and the two guys sitting behind me chanting 'Hail Marys' between every inning. It was a game that tops every game I have ever been to and probably will ever see.
M. Olsen's Top Five
5. Bears vs. 49ers
November 13, 2005
On perhaps the windiest day in the history of the Windy City, I got a chance to see Nathan Vasher return a missed field goal 108 yards for touchdown.
It was at the end of the first half and considering how the wind was blowing, I figured Joe Nedney's 52-yard field goal attempt was a joke and I could get a head start on the bathroom line. But as I turned to walk up the steps, the crowd in the South end zone starting going nuts and out of nowhere I see Vasher and a gang of Bears blockers flying down the sideline leading him to the promised land.
4. White Sox vs. Twins
June 3, 1990
That's the actual ticket from a White Sox game in 1990 that really didn't have any special importance. The Sox won 90 games that year, good enough for second place in the division.
But - not to get all misty-eyed on ya - this is the first game I remember my old man taking me to and the first game I actually remember attending. Carlton 'Pudge" Fisk, Lance Johnson, Robin Ventura, Ivan Calderon, Ron Kittle and Ozzie Guillen were in the starting lineup that day. 'Blackjack' McDowell was the starting pitcher and Bobby Thigpen came in for the save.
Those guys were legends to me and I'm proud to say I got a chance to see Kirby Puckett take the field at ol' Comiskey, one of the greatest ballparks the world has ever seen.
(And please, look at how much a ticket was in 1990.....almost what you pay for a beer nowadays)
3. Bears vs. Seahawks
October 1, 2006
The Bears were 3-0 heading into this NFC tilt with the defending NFC Champion Seattle Seahawks in 2006. A win against a team like the 'Hawks would legitimize the Bears hopes of making a playoff run that eventually ended with a loss in the Super Bowl.
Seattle went up 3-0 early in the first quarter, but from then on it was all Bears. They scored 20 unanswered points and dominated in every facet of the game. Hasselbeck was sacked five times, threw two interceptions and eventually was knocked out of the game to be replaced by Seneca Wallace.
It was a good ol' fashioned ass-whoopin and a sign of things to come in '06.
2. Bulls vs. Kings
February 28, 1997
There's not much to be said about the Bulls dynasty that hasn't been said already so I'll keep this one short and sweet. I feel blessed to be able to say I saw Michael Jordan on more than one occasion during his career with the Bulls and will never forget the goose-bumps I got during the introductions. "ANNNNNNNNNDDDDD NOWWWWWW!!!!!!!"
M. Jeff lit it up against the Kings that night like we always expected him to. He finished with 35 points, nine rebounds, six assists and teammate Scottie Pippen did some damage with 29 points of his own.
Watching the Bulls of today makes me miss those times more than ever.
1. Bears vs. Packers
September 29, 2003
1st Game at Remodeled Soldier Field
Let's see.
Sunday night game?
Check.
Bears vs. Packers?
Check.
First game ever in the newly remodeled Soldier Field?
Check.
This will always go down in my mind as the most ridiculous event I have ever been to. The atmosphere inside Soldier Field before kickoff was something I'll never forget and the pomp and circumstance that went along with it made the game that much sweeter.
I was at the game this year when the Vikings' Adrian Peterson shredded the Bears for over 200 yards. I've seen Devin Hester return a kick for a touchdown and witnessed his version of the 'SupaMan' dance. I've seen comebacks and heartbreaks.
But nothing will ever compare to the night I was locked into a historical moment with the franchise that has meant so much to me over the years and the thousands of like minded individuals that surrounded me.
Top Ten Chicago Logos
10. The Chicago Steel
A strong and bold logo is perfect for this hockey club.
9. The Chicago Bandits
It might be chick softball but it is a sick logo.
8. The Chicago White Sox
It's an average logo but the South Siders are a staple of Chicago.
7. The Chicago Fire
I know it's soccer but it does rep the Chicago FD.
6. The Chicago Wolves
Don't piss off this wild beast.
5. The Chicago Bulls
You mess with the bull you get the horn.
4. The Chicago Shamrox
Even though it is lacrosse, this logo rocks hard.
3. The Chicago Cubs
Simple and powerful.
2. The Chicago Bears
The combination of the colors and the bear is simply badass.
1. The Chicago Blackhawks
It is the greatest logo in sports.
A strong and bold logo is perfect for this hockey club.
9. The Chicago Bandits
It might be chick softball but it is a sick logo.
8. The Chicago White Sox
It's an average logo but the South Siders are a staple of Chicago.
7. The Chicago Fire
I know it's soccer but it does rep the Chicago FD.
6. The Chicago Wolves
Don't piss off this wild beast.
5. The Chicago Bulls
You mess with the bull you get the horn.
4. The Chicago Shamrox
Even though it is lacrosse, this logo rocks hard.
3. The Chicago Cubs
Simple and powerful.
2. The Chicago Bears
The combination of the colors and the bear is simply badass.
1. The Chicago Blackhawks
It is the greatest logo in sports.
Top Ten Tag Teams (1985-1990)
As a child I would always have to hide from my mom whenever wrestling was on. She would run to whatever room I was in and turn it off. To my mom it was as bad as scrambled porn… maybe worse. So this list is a dedication to all the nervous nights I spent anxiously hiding from my mother. This is my Top Ten WWF Tag Teams of the 90’s.
10. The British Bulldogs
When you think of the British Bulldogs you think of Davey Boy Smith with his flamboyant bicep things that made you want to kill him. It also hurt his street cred that he was from Britain. But he did play a good clean-cut asswhipe that the crowd loved to hate.
9. Harlem Heat
Like the Bulldogs the Heat were represented by one man Booker T and whoever else was on his arm. This team set the record with ten titles. It also helps to wrestle for nine hundred years. I think Booker T is still chugging along in Mexico somewhere.
8. Money INC
Made up of legendary wrestler Ted DiBiase and resident douche Irwin R. Schyster (IRS). I always got made fun for liking these two by my friends but I was so impressed by IRS’ ability to where a tie and still stomp ass.
7. The Dudley Boyz
Easily the funniest combination of all time. Whenever you add a redneck racist and black dude it equals gold. They were the first blue collar TV before it got all-queer with Jeff Foxworthy. This team made wrestling enjoyable with a slight hint of racial awkwardness.
6. New Age Outlaws
Made up of Kip and BG James, these two dominated the sport for a while and eventually added the likes of many of the D-Generation X crew. At one point they were the third most popular people in wrestling behind the Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. Plus look at those tight shorts, how cant you root for that.
5. The Nasty Boys
Simply put Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags were fat and wore leather… You can’t go wrong with that combo.
4. Demolition
Made up of the three-way combo of Ax, Smash and Crush, this dynamic combination destroyed anyone that got in their way. Plus they wore face paint, which is only cool at a carnival and in the wrestling ring.
3. The Hart Foundation
Probably the most classic and well respected wrestler was Bret Hart. He teamed up with Jim Neidhart to form one of the best tag teams in the history of the WWF. They had it all, athleticism, size and sweet accents. They rocked as hard as men in leotards can.
2. The Steiner Brothers
When these two came out in their Michigan letterman jackets and their ear guards, my friends and I would loose it. Not because we like Michigan (hate them) but because they were a real combination of brothers that gave it their best and were two solid dudes that the crowd could relate to.
1. The Road Warriors/The Legion of Doom
Members: Hawk and Animal
They had spikes in their shoulder pads… is there anything else I need to say?
10. The British Bulldogs
When you think of the British Bulldogs you think of Davey Boy Smith with his flamboyant bicep things that made you want to kill him. It also hurt his street cred that he was from Britain. But he did play a good clean-cut asswhipe that the crowd loved to hate.
9. Harlem Heat
Like the Bulldogs the Heat were represented by one man Booker T and whoever else was on his arm. This team set the record with ten titles. It also helps to wrestle for nine hundred years. I think Booker T is still chugging along in Mexico somewhere.
8. Money INC
Made up of legendary wrestler Ted DiBiase and resident douche Irwin R. Schyster (IRS). I always got made fun for liking these two by my friends but I was so impressed by IRS’ ability to where a tie and still stomp ass.
7. The Dudley Boyz
Easily the funniest combination of all time. Whenever you add a redneck racist and black dude it equals gold. They were the first blue collar TV before it got all-queer with Jeff Foxworthy. This team made wrestling enjoyable with a slight hint of racial awkwardness.
6. New Age Outlaws
Made up of Kip and BG James, these two dominated the sport for a while and eventually added the likes of many of the D-Generation X crew. At one point they were the third most popular people in wrestling behind the Rock and Stone Cold Steve Austin. Plus look at those tight shorts, how cant you root for that.
5. The Nasty Boys
Simply put Brian Knobbs and Jerry Sags were fat and wore leather… You can’t go wrong with that combo.
4. Demolition
Made up of the three-way combo of Ax, Smash and Crush, this dynamic combination destroyed anyone that got in their way. Plus they wore face paint, which is only cool at a carnival and in the wrestling ring.
3. The Hart Foundation
Probably the most classic and well respected wrestler was Bret Hart. He teamed up with Jim Neidhart to form one of the best tag teams in the history of the WWF. They had it all, athleticism, size and sweet accents. They rocked as hard as men in leotards can.
2. The Steiner Brothers
When these two came out in their Michigan letterman jackets and their ear guards, my friends and I would loose it. Not because we like Michigan (hate them) but because they were a real combination of brothers that gave it their best and were two solid dudes that the crowd could relate to.
1. The Road Warriors/The Legion of Doom
Members: Hawk and Animal
They had spikes in their shoulder pads… is there anything else I need to say?
Top Ten Kid Athletes in Movies
Now that I am getting old, I have decided to relive the greatest moments of my childhood. My last post was an ode to the Top Ten Tag Teams (1985-90). This week I will give props to the greatest kid athletes in movies…the ones that inspired, the ones that took their teams from shit to legit, the ones that hit puberty before any other kids in town. This is my Top Ten Kid Athletes in Movies
*editors note: Only one character per movie, otherwise there would be like seven characters from "The Little Giants" and "The Mighty Ducks". Also, by kids I mean not in high school. No Jimmy Chitwood’s on this list.
10. Jarius “G-Baby” Evans – Hardball
“Kofi say, "You a cheatin' bitch.". No wait. Kofi say, "You a motherf - "”(www.boxofficeprophets.com/ hollis/hardball.asp)
G-Baby may not have been the best athlete, but he got shot and that gives him some major street cred. He was shot on the Chicago South Side. Thank God that doesn’t happen anymore. Right?
9. Mathew/Martha – Lady Bugs
“No, he's not a stranger. He's just strange.”
(www.sportsinmovies.com/ soccer/ladybugs.asp)
What is better than a really good girl soccer player? Nothing. Wrong! A really good boy soccer player, playing in the girl’s league. Mathew or Martha played in the girl’s league for coach Chester Lee (even the character that Dangerfield plays sound creepy). He methodically scored goal after goal dodging awkward yet hilarious situations on his way to getting a period for being a bitch.
8. Jaun Morales – “Big Green”
(www.ultimatedisney.com/ biggreen.html)
The only reason I like this movie is because my 80’s comedy icon is in it…Steve Guttenberg (he rocks hard). However, once the group of misfits gets Morales on their team, they can do no wrong.
7. Gian Piero/Massimo – “Kicking and Screaming”
“Prima la carne, prima la carne.”(http://www.themoviespoiler.com/Spoilers/kickingandscreaming.html)
Once coach Phil Weston got these two Italian soccer saints, his team could not be stopped. Gian Piero and Massimo weaved through the defense like TTCS writer Phil Barnes weaves his way through traffic on his way to McDonalds…unstoppable.
6. Billy Heywood – “Little Big League”
“If Joe can paint a house in three hours and Sam can paint the same house in five hours, how long will it take to paint it together?”
(www.tvguide.com/movies/ little-big-league/129913)
Technically Heywood never played baseball except on the Little League diamond, but the kid made GMing and coaching look so easy that he must make this list. For many Chicago franchises, making the playoffs is a challenge and Heywood took a cellar Twins team within one sick catch by THE Ken Griffey Jr. from going to the playoffs. Here’s to you Heywood and lets hope Pax takes a page from Heywood's grandfather when he makes his coaching decision.
5. Kelly Leak – “The Bad News Bears” (1976)
“There's nice ass at the field, that's why I always hang around it.”(http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/category?blogid=22&cat=546&o=60)
This longhaired-motorcycling badass took some twisting of the arm to play ball, but when he did all he did was drop bomb after bomb…a complete stud.
4. Adam Banks – “The Mighty Ducks”
“Do me a favor. Kick some Hawk butt.”(http://yzak.nu/fan/banks/)
This “cake eater” might have been from some richy rich neighborhood but the kid could play. He was the turtleneck wearing tight-ass that Coach Gordon Bombay needed to make the “flying V” a success. Thank God they rezoned the district!
3. Henry Rowengartner – “Rookie of the Year”
“Pitcher's got a big butt! Pitcher's got a big butt!”
(http://hyspace.progressiveboink.com/rowengartner.jpg)
He might be the most annoying character on this list, but Rowengartner was the man and he pitched for the Cubs. He went from his class loser to Cubs Ace in just eight weeks (his arm had to heal properly). From striking out Bonds to the immaculate floater, Rowengartner had it all. Plus he went on later to become the guy from “American Pie.”
2. Spike – “Little Giants”
“Is Spike mistaken, but aren't you a girl?” (http://www.childrenofsalem.com/days/kids/briabrit/littlegiants1.jpg)
Can you say steroids? Spike dominated pee-wee football. Listed at 6-2, 200 (numbers may be off), Spike could tear through anything, except an Ice Box, even though he had already carried one on his back earlier in the movie. Basically Spike is everything I want in a son. If I had Spike’s size I would definitely go back to grade school and beat up the bully that picked on fellow TTCS writer Ricky O’Donnell. Maybe he wouldn’t be so mean.
1. Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez – “The Sandlot”
“Anyone who wants to be a can't-hack-it pantywaist who wears their mama's bra, raise your hand.”
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/5/9750972_2e6fd4096c.jpg)
Benny destroyed all the kids that he played against in the Sandlot. Nobody could match his speed, power and arm strength. He stole bases without conscience and hit home runs like Ruth. Plus, Benny made the Majors and stole home…sick!
Honorable Mentions
Patrick Renna – The fat redheaded kid in “The Sandlot” and “Big Green”
Ice Box and Junior – “Little Giants”
Goldberg and Charlie Conway – “The Mighty Ducks”
*editors note: Only one character per movie, otherwise there would be like seven characters from "The Little Giants" and "The Mighty Ducks". Also, by kids I mean not in high school. No Jimmy Chitwood’s on this list.
10. Jarius “G-Baby” Evans – Hardball
“Kofi say, "You a cheatin' bitch.". No wait. Kofi say, "You a motherf - "”(www.boxofficeprophets.com/ hollis/hardball.asp)
G-Baby may not have been the best athlete, but he got shot and that gives him some major street cred. He was shot on the Chicago South Side. Thank God that doesn’t happen anymore. Right?
9. Mathew/Martha – Lady Bugs
“No, he's not a stranger. He's just strange.”
(www.sportsinmovies.com/ soccer/ladybugs.asp)
What is better than a really good girl soccer player? Nothing. Wrong! A really good boy soccer player, playing in the girl’s league. Mathew or Martha played in the girl’s league for coach Chester Lee (even the character that Dangerfield plays sound creepy). He methodically scored goal after goal dodging awkward yet hilarious situations on his way to getting a period for being a bitch.
8. Jaun Morales – “Big Green”
(www.ultimatedisney.com/ biggreen.html)
The only reason I like this movie is because my 80’s comedy icon is in it…Steve Guttenberg (he rocks hard). However, once the group of misfits gets Morales on their team, they can do no wrong.
7. Gian Piero/Massimo – “Kicking and Screaming”
“Prima la carne, prima la carne.”(http://www.themoviespoiler.com/Spoilers/kickingandscreaming.html)
Once coach Phil Weston got these two Italian soccer saints, his team could not be stopped. Gian Piero and Massimo weaved through the defense like TTCS writer Phil Barnes weaves his way through traffic on his way to McDonalds…unstoppable.
6. Billy Heywood – “Little Big League”
“If Joe can paint a house in three hours and Sam can paint the same house in five hours, how long will it take to paint it together?”
(www.tvguide.com/movies/ little-big-league/129913)
Technically Heywood never played baseball except on the Little League diamond, but the kid made GMing and coaching look so easy that he must make this list. For many Chicago franchises, making the playoffs is a challenge and Heywood took a cellar Twins team within one sick catch by THE Ken Griffey Jr. from going to the playoffs. Here’s to you Heywood and lets hope Pax takes a page from Heywood's grandfather when he makes his coaching decision.
5. Kelly Leak – “The Bad News Bears” (1976)
“There's nice ass at the field, that's why I always hang around it.”(http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/blogs/sfgate/category?blogid=22&cat=546&o=60)
This longhaired-motorcycling badass took some twisting of the arm to play ball, but when he did all he did was drop bomb after bomb…a complete stud.
4. Adam Banks – “The Mighty Ducks”
“Do me a favor. Kick some Hawk butt.”(http://yzak.nu/fan/banks/)
This “cake eater” might have been from some richy rich neighborhood but the kid could play. He was the turtleneck wearing tight-ass that Coach Gordon Bombay needed to make the “flying V” a success. Thank God they rezoned the district!
3. Henry Rowengartner – “Rookie of the Year”
“Pitcher's got a big butt! Pitcher's got a big butt!”
(http://hyspace.progressiveboink.com/rowengartner.jpg)
He might be the most annoying character on this list, but Rowengartner was the man and he pitched for the Cubs. He went from his class loser to Cubs Ace in just eight weeks (his arm had to heal properly). From striking out Bonds to the immaculate floater, Rowengartner had it all. Plus he went on later to become the guy from “American Pie.”
2. Spike – “Little Giants”
“Is Spike mistaken, but aren't you a girl?” (http://www.childrenofsalem.com/days/kids/briabrit/littlegiants1.jpg)
Can you say steroids? Spike dominated pee-wee football. Listed at 6-2, 200 (numbers may be off), Spike could tear through anything, except an Ice Box, even though he had already carried one on his back earlier in the movie. Basically Spike is everything I want in a son. If I had Spike’s size I would definitely go back to grade school and beat up the bully that picked on fellow TTCS writer Ricky O’Donnell. Maybe he wouldn’t be so mean.
1. Benny “The Jet” Rodriguez – “The Sandlot”
“Anyone who wants to be a can't-hack-it pantywaist who wears their mama's bra, raise your hand.”
(http://farm1.static.flickr.com/5/9750972_2e6fd4096c.jpg)
Benny destroyed all the kids that he played against in the Sandlot. Nobody could match his speed, power and arm strength. He stole bases without conscience and hit home runs like Ruth. Plus, Benny made the Majors and stole home…sick!
Honorable Mentions
Patrick Renna – The fat redheaded kid in “The Sandlot” and “Big Green”
Ice Box and Junior – “Little Giants”
Goldberg and Charlie Conway – “The Mighty Ducks”
Top Ten Chicago Mascots
My editor for the Cubs wrote a little piece on the Mascots in the Cubs minor league system in our Cubs blog and it spurred my interest in Chicago sports teams mascots. Thus, this is my tribute to the greatest mascots in Chicago...enjoy!
10. Grabowski
( stations.espn.go.com/.../ story?id=mascots)
Kind of a random mascot, Grabowski does work for Iron Mike and should be well versed in ass kicking.
9. Blue Demon
(http://www.jamd.com/search?assettype=g&assetid=56946539&text=blue+demons+mascot)
He is a Blue Demon...it is weird looking but he does look like a bad ass blue Jamaican hard ass.
8. Southpaw
(homerderby.com/ archives/1003)
Not quite sure why the White Sox allowed this thing to roam their field but that is the south side for you.
7. Lou Wolf
(hoopedia.nba.com)
The first Wolf on the list...but this wolf ain't got skates...no balls!
6. Sparky the Firedog
(home.att.net/ ~hattrick-dals/)
Kind of a lame mascot, but it does fit the lameness of the soccer team.
5. The Sky Guy
(basketballfusion.com/)
He looks a lot like a Beer Drinking Simpson's character. Hey whatever puts seats in the empty building.
4. Tommy Hawk
( stations.espn.go.com/.../ story?id=mascots)
He has a sick look and probably could whoop your ass. Tommy's the man.
3. Skates
(www.dailyherald.com/.../ images/skates.JPG)
He can skate in a freagin' wolf suit...that is sick!
2. Staley Da Bear
(raymond.mlblogs.com)
He has "Da" as a middle name. That's cool.
1. Benny the Bull( bullsbrasil.wordpress.com)
Must be number one after DUI, drug charges and breaking a man's arm. Nobody can beat that.
10. Grabowski
( stations.espn.go.com/.../ story?id=mascots)
Kind of a random mascot, Grabowski does work for Iron Mike and should be well versed in ass kicking.
9. Blue Demon
(http://www.jamd.com/search?assettype=g&assetid=56946539&text=blue+demons+mascot)
He is a Blue Demon...it is weird looking but he does look like a bad ass blue Jamaican hard ass.
8. Southpaw
(homerderby.com/ archives/1003)
Not quite sure why the White Sox allowed this thing to roam their field but that is the south side for you.
7. Lou Wolf
(hoopedia.nba.com)
The first Wolf on the list...but this wolf ain't got skates...no balls!
6. Sparky the Firedog
(home.att.net/ ~hattrick-dals/)
Kind of a lame mascot, but it does fit the lameness of the soccer team.
5. The Sky Guy
(basketballfusion.com/)
He looks a lot like a Beer Drinking Simpson's character. Hey whatever puts seats in the empty building.
4. Tommy Hawk
( stations.espn.go.com/.../ story?id=mascots)
He has a sick look and probably could whoop your ass. Tommy's the man.
3. Skates
(www.dailyherald.com/.../ images/skates.JPG)
He can skate in a freagin' wolf suit...that is sick!
2. Staley Da Bear
(raymond.mlblogs.com)
He has "Da" as a middle name. That's cool.
1. Benny the Bull( bullsbrasil.wordpress.com)
Must be number one after DUI, drug charges and breaking a man's arm. Nobody can beat that.
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