Joe Cleveland was as happy as a pig in slop when he was greeted with the news Monday morning that the NFL's lockout had finally come to a conclusion.
It's the longest work-stoppage in NFL history, and yet the only game that will be missed is the meaningless Hall of Fame preseason game in Canton. No offense to Canton, as Joe Cleveland loves his Northeast Ohio communities and knows how much the exposure of the game and the symbolism of it means to Canton, but it's an exhibition game. Big whoop.
No regular season games were missed. No regular season games were rescheduled. With the way this lockout was going this spring and summer, there were times that those two sentences looked unrealistic and fantasy-oriented. But, to the owners and players credit, they hunkered down and hammered out a deal that, I believe, is great for the sport of football.
A 10-year CBA with no opt-out clause? Take that, NBA and MLB!
The most important aspect, at least in Joe Cleveland's mind, is that those wonderful orange helmets and brown and white jersies will be worn again. The Browns are back!
With the lockout ending comes a furious few weeks, in which free agency will kick off. It will be a mad dash as teams scramble to fill up the $120 million salary cap, and a ton of players, thanks to releases and new free agency criteria, will be available.
So, what do the Browns do?
To me, the biggest area of need is the defense. All you sports-talkers can yakk about wide receivers all you like, but the fact is, the defense needs more bodies, more talent and more depth than your over-glorified wide receiver position. I would say signing some offensive linemen would take precidence over wide receiver.
In a West Coast offense, receivers are expected to run shorter and quicker routes. Reliable hands are key. In this offense, I think Mohammed Massoquoi and Brian Robiskie should do just fine. Second-year player Carlton Mitchell, who Mangini never played, was a Tom Heckart draft pick specifically for this offense, and should blossom under new coaching. And rookie Greg Little -- if he keeps his head on straight -- should have a fine career. And, Josh Cribbs is the utilityman -- perhaps precise routes would be just the break he needs to finally succeed at the receiver position.
With that being said, if -- after the Browns address their other needs -- there is a decent, veteran receiver still out there (Derrick Mason, Lee Evans) that would come cheap, then the Browns can pounce. But that should be the last of their concerns.
I'm not going to lie - Nnamdi Asomugha would look fantastic in Brown and Orange. However, he's not worth breaking the bank over. The Browns need a corner, but not that bad. So, here's who I would target, if I was Tom Heckart:
Donte Whitner -- Whitner is a Cleveland product who went on to stardom at Ohio State before being drafted by the Buffalo Bills. He's had a fine NFL career with the Bills, but it's almost certain he will wind up with a new team. Why not come back to his hometown with the Browns? The Browns sorely need a starting safety to line up next to T.J. Ward, and Whitner would be a huge upgrade over Abram Elam and the other retreads Eric Mangini trotted out there the last few years. Besides, Browns fans always go ga-ga when "one of their own" comes back home. Others to consider are Michael Huff, Quintin Mikell, Dashon Goldson and Danieal Manning.
Charles Johnson or Ray Edwards -- One of these players would probably be the biggest free agency spash the Browns would commit to, and it would fill a tremendous need. Right now, your starting defensive line is Athyba Rubin and two unsigned (as of now) rookies in Phil Taylor and Jabreal Sheard. Sheard fills one of your defensive end roles, but you need another. Re-signing Jayme Mitchell is a must for the Browns, but they can do better than that as their other starter. Johnson or Edwards would be how they do better. Carolina is likely to make a full-court press on retaining Johnson (especially after losing Julius Peppers last season), but Edwards will be in a different uniform next year. Edwards has never had double-digit sacks in a season like Johnson did last season, but Edwards' body of work and consistancy outshine Johnson's. Either one would be a phenomenal signing. However, I might lean toward Edwards -- he'd be cheaper and the "bust" factor may be less than that of Johnson. Other linemen to consider are Raheem Brock, Marcus Spears and Stylez G. White.
Barrett Ruud -- Of the Browns' potential starting linebackers, the only one without any health concerns is Chris Gocong. D'Qwell Jackson has missed most of the last two seasons with torn pec muscles, and Scott Fujita missed the second half of last season and spent the entire offseason dealing with the lockout as one of the high-ranking members of the NFLPA. The Browns could use a reliable person to use in the middle, and Ruud would be that person. He's not as highly rated as Paul Posluszny is, but Posluszny will be targeted by the Bills to retain. Ruud is a cheaper version of Posluszny. He's a highly effective tackler and a solid playmaker. Plus, he's still pretty young. Kirk Morrison would also be a good signing, if Ruud were to find a different home, along with Manny Lawson, Stephen Tulloch and Stewart Bradley. I would re-sign Jason Trusnik, who proved to be very valuable on special teams and did well when thrust into action, to provide depth. And, just for S and G's, why not Lorain native and former Ohio State great Matt Wilhelm to help on special teams?
Chris Carr -- The Plain Dealer is saying that retaining Eric Wright is a "must." Seriously? Did they not watch him attempt to play last season and constantly whiff tackles, get burned for completions and touchdowns and look like a chump? Good riddence. Let some other team deal with this primma-donna. Carr is a definite upgrade over Eric Wrong. He comes from a division rival, so those signings are two-fold in that they strengthen you while crippling one of your common opponents. Carr is certainly no Asomugha, but he'd be a lot cheaper. A CB-tandem of Joe Haden and Chris Carr, with Sheldon Brown as your veteran nickelback, would certainly be no slouch. Others to consider include Richard Marshall, Drayton Florence, Josh Wilson, Carlos Rogers and Phillip Buchanon.
Robert Gallery -- I've always been a Robert Gallery fan, dating back to his time with Iowa. The Raiders moved him all over their line as they tried to find a successful role for him. All this has done, in my opinion, is making him a valuable utilityman for your offensive line. As it is, the Browns need a right guard, and Pork Chop Womack, at this stage, is probably best served as line-depth. Gallery hasn't had the best career -- especially for someone who was the No. 2 overall pick in the draft -- but a change of scenery would do him good. An atmosphere similar to what he was used to in the Big Ten, playing along side a lineman who was just as good in the Big Ten, if not better, in Joe Thomas, may be wonders. Others to consider include Max Jean-Gilles, David Baas, Chris Chester, Matt Light and Daryn Colledge.
Brian Westbrook -- The Browns are pretty set at running back with Peyton Hillis and rookie Montario Hardesty. However, Hardesty's health is a question mark. Plus, in a West Coast offense, a third-down back who can catch the ball is a must. Westbrook is a veteran who would be effective in this role. He and Heckart have a history together going back to the Eagles. Westbrook's best days are behind him, but the savvy vet should excel as the change-of-pace, receiving back the Browns need. Of course, Cribbs could be moved to this role, but I can't see them throwing Cribbs here like that. Others to consider include Darren Sproles, Jerome Harrison (yes, I know we traded him, but that was Mangini's call. Mangini's gone), Brandon Jackson and (don't laugh) Tiki Barber.
Chris Hovan -- Hovan is past his prime. However, with two young defensive tackles starting, it might be wise to bring in a veteran to help show the ropes and use as a sounding board of sorts. Hovan is also a Cleveland product, so ending his career as a Brown might be something he would go for. Defensive tackle isn't a huge need, but, with the young guys in the fold, a veteran could be of service.
And, if you must add a receiver, there are quite a few that could be added to help shore up the young corps. If I were to target one, it would be ...
Mark Clayton -- Clayton succeeded in Pat Shurmer's offense in St. Louis last season before being injured after a few years of mediocrity with Baltimore. Clayton is still young enough to have upside, but veteran enough to show the young guys like Robiskie and Massoquoi who have never played in a WCO the ropes. Others to consider include Malcolm Floyd, Derrick Mason, Randy Moss (if you can get him cheap, why not), Lee Evans, Laurent Robinson and James Jones.
It should be an interesting couple of weeks. Who knows what the Browns will do, but it's exciting to see.
And besides, it will detract from the move the Indians WON'T make on July 31, along with the NBA lockout that will be even uglier than the NFL's was (if you're a diehard Cavs fan, I feel sorry for you because you won't see a game this year. Just a hunch).
Are you ready for some football? Joe Cleveland sure the heck is! Let's get going!
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Tuesday, July 26, 2011
Monday, June 27, 2011
Time running out for Tribe
So, Larry Dolan and his son, Paul, have uttered the phrase "We'll spend when the time is right" many times during their disasterous tenure as owners of the Indians, as their fan base complained about all of the white-flag-waving trades the dynamic duo have signed off on over the years and payroll has been slashed.
Well, that time is now ... RIGHT NOW!
The Indians weren't expected do much but try to avoid losing 100 games and finishing below the Royals in the AL Central during the preseason. Instead, they took the Major Leagues by storm with a torrid April and a hot May to put them comfortably in first place in their division.
Then, the June Swoon hit, and that seven-game lead has withered away to nothing. In fact, as of this moment, the Tribe aren't even in first place.
Joe Cleveland is imploring the Indians that, if they are serious about winning ball games and contending, the "right time" is right now.
Open up that paycheck, and acquire some talent to shore things up.
The Indians have a legitimate chance to make the playoffs. Can you imagine how ga-ga Cleveland will be if that happens? Especially since the NFL is still in a lockout (although it appears that could end within a couple of weeks) and the NBA is about to be in a lockout.
The Tribe is the only game in town!
With that being the case, and the team winning, fans really, really, REALLY want to believe it can happen. They really want to flock to the corner of Carnegie and Ontario and watch the Indians, be entertained, and, most importantly, they want to see WINS!
They don't want to see Fausto Carmona get tagged and get yanked by the third inning, or Jack Hannahan go 0-for-4, or the never-ending Columbus shuffle of Travis Buck and Shelley Duncan continue to fail more than they succeeed.
They don't want to see Austin Kearns in an Indians uniform ... EVER AGAIN!
They don't want to see Grady Sizemore and his hacking self bat leadoff.
They don't want to see a starting rotation anchored by Fausto, who, at this point, would probably get lit up in the Frontier League, while these supposed "can't-miss" prospects like Zach McAllister, Jeanmar Gomez and Drew Pomeranz continally get hitters out in the minors.
They don't want to see a .220-hitting Carlos Santana bat cleanup.
And, they don't want to hear Manny Acta make excuses for his players' screw ups. Hold them accountable. When Tony Sipp balks, or Fausto deliberately throws at Mark Texiera, don't defend them. It only hurts your credibiltiy in the eyes of the media and the fans.
It's time for the Indians to use that supposed "bounty" of minor league talent and turn it into something that help this team NOW on the Major League level.
Teams that build for the future continue to build for a future that never seems to come. Fans don't want to hear about building for the future. They want a championship -- ANY CHAMPIONSHIP!
A World Series championship -- the first one in 63 years -- would do just fine.
Of course, knowing the Indians, they'll want to obtain an additional bat (definite holes at first and third base, and the outfield with Shin-Soo Choo on the DL) on the cheap. Well, Chris Antonetti and Mark Shapiro, here are some guys that might be obtainable:
1. Alfonso Soriano/Carlos Pena -- Soriano has proven that he still has it, hitting 14 home runs and batting .271 for the mediocre Cubs. He'd be a definite upgrade in the outfield. Pena has always been an all-or-nothing hitter, and despite his .221 average, he also has 14 homers for the Cubs. I think a team going nowhere like the Cubs would listen to inquiries for both of these guys. Pena is a defnite first-base upgrade over LaPorta, who is playing like LaPorta Potty. At this stage, LaPorta may be better off as a defensive replacement and a situational pinch-hitter (bench depth). Power is definitely lacking with the Tribe, and that would change in a hurry with either of these two.
2. Ryan Ludwick -- Ludwick spent time as an Indians prospect but was given up on. Of course, he promptly went to the National League, where he flourished with the St. Louis Cardinals. Currently with the San Diego Padres, Ludwick could easily be had. He's also a free agent after the season, so the Dolans don't have to worry about committing long-term dollars to him (unless they want to). He's a solid stick and solid outfielder who puts up good power numbers. In this lineup, power is a definite need.
3. Jim Thome -- Thome is clearly on the downside of his career. He's only hanging around long enough to reach 600 home runs. Of course, he'd love one last chance to win a World Series -- and last season was the first time he had been in the playoffs since he infamously turned down Dolan's low-ball offer and signed with the Phillies as a free agent (pissing off the Tribe fanbase in the process). Thome can still hit for power, and his leadership in a young clubhouse would be immense. Plus, I think, deep down, the Indians fans would love to forgive Thome and welcome him back into the Wigwam. If Travis Hafner continues to have health problems, you need a DH that can deliver, not Shelley Duncan or Austin Kearns. You could probably give the Twins a bucket of balls for Thome at this point.
4. Juan Uribe -- It was last year that Uribe hit 24 home runs for the World Champion Giants while holding down the hot corner. This year, Uribe is struggling (.208-4-23). However, that could be a result of circumstance -- the Dodgers haven't exactly been the greatest environment this season with the ownership mess. They can barely afford to make payroll, and there's no chance for a postseason run. He could thrive in a change of scenery, especially when that change involves a pennant race. Uribe could probably be had for a song. I think that's a tune the Indians should at least listen to.
5. Vladimer Guerrero -- Guerrero, once upon a time one of the most feared sluggers in baseball, is currently playing rather anoymously for the last-place Orioles, but putting up respectible numbers as their regular DH (.283-6-28). Imagine how much better he could be if he was playing for a team that had a realistic chance to reach the playoffs and then some. Guerrero isn't getting any younger, but he could be easily obtained. He still plays some outfield for Baltimore, which is where he could help the Tribe.
6. Hideki Matsui -- Matsui is also not getting any younger. However, there's no denying his track record, just two years removed from 28 homers and a year removed from 21 for the Angels. He's currently toiling with the last-place A's, hitting just .226 with 6 homers and 30 RBIs. However, Matsui has been a winner his whole career. Put him on a winning team, and I bet his numbers improve. I bet Billy Beane would listen to anyone inquiring about "Godzilla," and Antonetti should be one of those interested parties.
7. Jose Bautista -- OK, so the Indians wouldn't be able to get him on the "cheap." However, can you imagine that stick in the middle of the Indians' lineup? Plus, he's versatile, having played both third base and outfield (two major positions of need at this point). This one is wishful thinking. The Blue Jays are mired in mediocrity, but they may not be willing to part with their main drawing card. The man is definitely not a one-year wonder. It would be worth a call to see.
8. Omar Vizquel -- Omar is definitely not a power hitter. He never has. However, even at the ripe age of 44, Vizquel can still put the ball in play and can still play a sterling defense. He can even play third and second now. He'd be a phenomenal utility infielder and a great leader in the clubhouse. Plus, Indians fans still adore him -- he's probably the only guy to leave as a free agent who has never been booed. It would be a great PR move to let him retire as an Indian, but he'd also be helpful to a young team looking to make a playoff push.
9. Carlos Lee -- Lee is another in the 30-plus club who isn't exactly lighting up the world with his numbers (.265-5-38) for the NL Central celler-dwelling Houston Astros. A change of scenery could do him some good. Plus, he shores up a position of need (outfield) and brings a proven bat to the lineup. Houston is managed by Brad Mills -- perhaps Antonetti can deal him his son, first-round bust Beau Mills, for Lee.
10. Todd Helton -- The left-handed hitting first baseman has enjoyed a sort of renaissance with the Rockies this season, hitting .308 with 9 HRs and 32 RBIs. Helton has played in one World Series, losing to the Red Sox in 2007 (Indians fans still lament about that one, since they had a 3-1 lead on Boston with home field advantage and squandered it). He's not a terrific power threat, but he brings a feared and respected bat to the lineup, along with a veteran presence. Colorado is still hanging around in the mediocre NL West, so they may not be in sell-off mode.
I also believe the Indians should look for a left-handed starter to replace Fausto. They're the only team in the majors to have not started a lefty this season, and that should change. If you're going to add a veteran presence to a young rotation, their best bet is a lefty.
It will be interesting to see what the Indians do, if anything. Doing nothing, however, speaks volumes to a fan base who still believes their owners are cheap and don't care about winning.
***
Joe Cleveland has let the Cavaliers' draft marinate in his mind for a few days before commenting on it.
Fan reaction has been pretty severe, mostly due to the Tristan Thompson selection at No. 4 and sticking with it. The other bone of contention is the selection of Justin Harper and the trade of him to Orlando for a pair of future second-rounders.
At first, I wasn't happy. I wanted Derrick Williams over Kyrie Irving, and believed that they could take Williams and point guard Brandon Knight at 1 and 4 and everyone would be happy. And, as the draft played itself out, had the Cavs taken Williams, they could have very well wound up with Knight at No. 4.
I wasn't 100 percent sold on Irving, even though everyone believes he was, hands down, the one "sure thing" in this draft. To go from 13 games as a college freshman to 82 in the NBA as a 19-year-old isn't easy. However, he carries himself with a maturity you don't see from many 19-year-olds, and has shown flashes of brilliance during the few times he played with Duke. He comes from a great family, which is also encourging.
The key to this draft will be Thompson. If Thompson blossoms into a good pro, this draft becomes a success. If Thompson is a bust, so too is this draft, and an opportunity would be squandered.
Thompson is very similar to J.J. Hickson, who I believe will be playing for a different team next season (if there is a next season). Hickson clashed with Byron Scott and wasn't shy about his affinity for LeBron James, even though his name was "mud" around Cavs headquarters. He took games off and didn't respond to Scott's "tough love." It's time for a change of scenery.
However, you're in the same boat you were when Hickson was drafted. Both left after their freshmen years with solid tools that needed refined. Thompson may be a bit more pro-ready than Hickson was. However, Thompson is a bit wild, and his free-throw shooting is pretty dismal. Thompson's improvement will be the key, as is how he compares to Derrick Williams, who Cavs fans now believe a duo of Williams-Knight would have been stronger than a Thompson-Irving duo.
And, he'll have to be compared to Lithuanian center Jonas Valanciunas, who was passed over for Thompson and went with the very next pick to Toronto. Valanciunas had contract issues from his European club, and was also considered a raw project, which were factors in the Cavs' decision (even though ESPN proclaimed they were going to take him at No. 4).
If there is a prolonged lockout, Cavs fans will have to wait a while to see how the new rookies play. However, even though I think Thompson is a bit of a reach, the Cavs addressed two positions of need with young players, so I'll give it a passing grade. It could have been better, but it could have been worse.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Well, that time is now ... RIGHT NOW!
The Indians weren't expected do much but try to avoid losing 100 games and finishing below the Royals in the AL Central during the preseason. Instead, they took the Major Leagues by storm with a torrid April and a hot May to put them comfortably in first place in their division.
Then, the June Swoon hit, and that seven-game lead has withered away to nothing. In fact, as of this moment, the Tribe aren't even in first place.
Joe Cleveland is imploring the Indians that, if they are serious about winning ball games and contending, the "right time" is right now.
Open up that paycheck, and acquire some talent to shore things up.
The Indians have a legitimate chance to make the playoffs. Can you imagine how ga-ga Cleveland will be if that happens? Especially since the NFL is still in a lockout (although it appears that could end within a couple of weeks) and the NBA is about to be in a lockout.
The Tribe is the only game in town!
With that being the case, and the team winning, fans really, really, REALLY want to believe it can happen. They really want to flock to the corner of Carnegie and Ontario and watch the Indians, be entertained, and, most importantly, they want to see WINS!
They don't want to see Fausto Carmona get tagged and get yanked by the third inning, or Jack Hannahan go 0-for-4, or the never-ending Columbus shuffle of Travis Buck and Shelley Duncan continue to fail more than they succeeed.
They don't want to see Austin Kearns in an Indians uniform ... EVER AGAIN!
They don't want to see Grady Sizemore and his hacking self bat leadoff.
They don't want to see a starting rotation anchored by Fausto, who, at this point, would probably get lit up in the Frontier League, while these supposed "can't-miss" prospects like Zach McAllister, Jeanmar Gomez and Drew Pomeranz continally get hitters out in the minors.
They don't want to see a .220-hitting Carlos Santana bat cleanup.
And, they don't want to hear Manny Acta make excuses for his players' screw ups. Hold them accountable. When Tony Sipp balks, or Fausto deliberately throws at Mark Texiera, don't defend them. It only hurts your credibiltiy in the eyes of the media and the fans.
It's time for the Indians to use that supposed "bounty" of minor league talent and turn it into something that help this team NOW on the Major League level.
Teams that build for the future continue to build for a future that never seems to come. Fans don't want to hear about building for the future. They want a championship -- ANY CHAMPIONSHIP!
A World Series championship -- the first one in 63 years -- would do just fine.
Of course, knowing the Indians, they'll want to obtain an additional bat (definite holes at first and third base, and the outfield with Shin-Soo Choo on the DL) on the cheap. Well, Chris Antonetti and Mark Shapiro, here are some guys that might be obtainable:
1. Alfonso Soriano/Carlos Pena -- Soriano has proven that he still has it, hitting 14 home runs and batting .271 for the mediocre Cubs. He'd be a definite upgrade in the outfield. Pena has always been an all-or-nothing hitter, and despite his .221 average, he also has 14 homers for the Cubs. I think a team going nowhere like the Cubs would listen to inquiries for both of these guys. Pena is a defnite first-base upgrade over LaPorta, who is playing like LaPorta Potty. At this stage, LaPorta may be better off as a defensive replacement and a situational pinch-hitter (bench depth). Power is definitely lacking with the Tribe, and that would change in a hurry with either of these two.
2. Ryan Ludwick -- Ludwick spent time as an Indians prospect but was given up on. Of course, he promptly went to the National League, where he flourished with the St. Louis Cardinals. Currently with the San Diego Padres, Ludwick could easily be had. He's also a free agent after the season, so the Dolans don't have to worry about committing long-term dollars to him (unless they want to). He's a solid stick and solid outfielder who puts up good power numbers. In this lineup, power is a definite need.
3. Jim Thome -- Thome is clearly on the downside of his career. He's only hanging around long enough to reach 600 home runs. Of course, he'd love one last chance to win a World Series -- and last season was the first time he had been in the playoffs since he infamously turned down Dolan's low-ball offer and signed with the Phillies as a free agent (pissing off the Tribe fanbase in the process). Thome can still hit for power, and his leadership in a young clubhouse would be immense. Plus, I think, deep down, the Indians fans would love to forgive Thome and welcome him back into the Wigwam. If Travis Hafner continues to have health problems, you need a DH that can deliver, not Shelley Duncan or Austin Kearns. You could probably give the Twins a bucket of balls for Thome at this point.
4. Juan Uribe -- It was last year that Uribe hit 24 home runs for the World Champion Giants while holding down the hot corner. This year, Uribe is struggling (.208-4-23). However, that could be a result of circumstance -- the Dodgers haven't exactly been the greatest environment this season with the ownership mess. They can barely afford to make payroll, and there's no chance for a postseason run. He could thrive in a change of scenery, especially when that change involves a pennant race. Uribe could probably be had for a song. I think that's a tune the Indians should at least listen to.
5. Vladimer Guerrero -- Guerrero, once upon a time one of the most feared sluggers in baseball, is currently playing rather anoymously for the last-place Orioles, but putting up respectible numbers as their regular DH (.283-6-28). Imagine how much better he could be if he was playing for a team that had a realistic chance to reach the playoffs and then some. Guerrero isn't getting any younger, but he could be easily obtained. He still plays some outfield for Baltimore, which is where he could help the Tribe.
6. Hideki Matsui -- Matsui is also not getting any younger. However, there's no denying his track record, just two years removed from 28 homers and a year removed from 21 for the Angels. He's currently toiling with the last-place A's, hitting just .226 with 6 homers and 30 RBIs. However, Matsui has been a winner his whole career. Put him on a winning team, and I bet his numbers improve. I bet Billy Beane would listen to anyone inquiring about "Godzilla," and Antonetti should be one of those interested parties.
7. Jose Bautista -- OK, so the Indians wouldn't be able to get him on the "cheap." However, can you imagine that stick in the middle of the Indians' lineup? Plus, he's versatile, having played both third base and outfield (two major positions of need at this point). This one is wishful thinking. The Blue Jays are mired in mediocrity, but they may not be willing to part with their main drawing card. The man is definitely not a one-year wonder. It would be worth a call to see.
8. Omar Vizquel -- Omar is definitely not a power hitter. He never has. However, even at the ripe age of 44, Vizquel can still put the ball in play and can still play a sterling defense. He can even play third and second now. He'd be a phenomenal utility infielder and a great leader in the clubhouse. Plus, Indians fans still adore him -- he's probably the only guy to leave as a free agent who has never been booed. It would be a great PR move to let him retire as an Indian, but he'd also be helpful to a young team looking to make a playoff push.
9. Carlos Lee -- Lee is another in the 30-plus club who isn't exactly lighting up the world with his numbers (.265-5-38) for the NL Central celler-dwelling Houston Astros. A change of scenery could do him some good. Plus, he shores up a position of need (outfield) and brings a proven bat to the lineup. Houston is managed by Brad Mills -- perhaps Antonetti can deal him his son, first-round bust Beau Mills, for Lee.
10. Todd Helton -- The left-handed hitting first baseman has enjoyed a sort of renaissance with the Rockies this season, hitting .308 with 9 HRs and 32 RBIs. Helton has played in one World Series, losing to the Red Sox in 2007 (Indians fans still lament about that one, since they had a 3-1 lead on Boston with home field advantage and squandered it). He's not a terrific power threat, but he brings a feared and respected bat to the lineup, along with a veteran presence. Colorado is still hanging around in the mediocre NL West, so they may not be in sell-off mode.
I also believe the Indians should look for a left-handed starter to replace Fausto. They're the only team in the majors to have not started a lefty this season, and that should change. If you're going to add a veteran presence to a young rotation, their best bet is a lefty.
It will be interesting to see what the Indians do, if anything. Doing nothing, however, speaks volumes to a fan base who still believes their owners are cheap and don't care about winning.
***
Joe Cleveland has let the Cavaliers' draft marinate in his mind for a few days before commenting on it.
Fan reaction has been pretty severe, mostly due to the Tristan Thompson selection at No. 4 and sticking with it. The other bone of contention is the selection of Justin Harper and the trade of him to Orlando for a pair of future second-rounders.
At first, I wasn't happy. I wanted Derrick Williams over Kyrie Irving, and believed that they could take Williams and point guard Brandon Knight at 1 and 4 and everyone would be happy. And, as the draft played itself out, had the Cavs taken Williams, they could have very well wound up with Knight at No. 4.
I wasn't 100 percent sold on Irving, even though everyone believes he was, hands down, the one "sure thing" in this draft. To go from 13 games as a college freshman to 82 in the NBA as a 19-year-old isn't easy. However, he carries himself with a maturity you don't see from many 19-year-olds, and has shown flashes of brilliance during the few times he played with Duke. He comes from a great family, which is also encourging.
The key to this draft will be Thompson. If Thompson blossoms into a good pro, this draft becomes a success. If Thompson is a bust, so too is this draft, and an opportunity would be squandered.
Thompson is very similar to J.J. Hickson, who I believe will be playing for a different team next season (if there is a next season). Hickson clashed with Byron Scott and wasn't shy about his affinity for LeBron James, even though his name was "mud" around Cavs headquarters. He took games off and didn't respond to Scott's "tough love." It's time for a change of scenery.
However, you're in the same boat you were when Hickson was drafted. Both left after their freshmen years with solid tools that needed refined. Thompson may be a bit more pro-ready than Hickson was. However, Thompson is a bit wild, and his free-throw shooting is pretty dismal. Thompson's improvement will be the key, as is how he compares to Derrick Williams, who Cavs fans now believe a duo of Williams-Knight would have been stronger than a Thompson-Irving duo.
And, he'll have to be compared to Lithuanian center Jonas Valanciunas, who was passed over for Thompson and went with the very next pick to Toronto. Valanciunas had contract issues from his European club, and was also considered a raw project, which were factors in the Cavs' decision (even though ESPN proclaimed they were going to take him at No. 4).
If there is a prolonged lockout, Cavs fans will have to wait a while to see how the new rookies play. However, even though I think Thompson is a bit of a reach, the Cavs addressed two positions of need with young players, so I'll give it a passing grade. It could have been better, but it could have been worse.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Monday, June 13, 2011
Where's your crown, King Nothing?!?
Wish I may
Wish I might
Have this I wish tonight
Are you satisfied?
Dig for gold
Dig for fame
You dig to make your name
Are you pacified?
All the wants you waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbling
And you're left with just name
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Where's your crown?
Joe Cleveland doesn't much care for this particular Metallica album (Load), but this song is just so apt for what we witnessed (no pun intended) these past few weeks.
LeQuitter, choking on the biggest stage of them all, especially in the clutch, when he famously left one year ago because, as he put it, "couldn't win a championshp all by himself."
Apparently, he can't win a championship with one other superstar and another guy who everyone thought was a superstar, but is just an overpaid role player. Oh yeah, and a huge collection of nobodies and has beens (like Z) who took the minimum hoping to glom on to this team to win a championship.
Well, where's your crown, King Nothing?
Joe Cleveland read some great Facebook updates tonight, such as "turn your phones on vibrate, so, in honor of LeBron, it has no ring." It was great to read and see all the joy around this area, because pariah No. 2 (behind Art "Judas" Modell) fell on his ass and did not win a title.
Hot and cold
Bought and Sold
A heart as hard as gold
Yeah! Are you satisfied?
Wish I might
Wish I may
You wish your life away
Are you pacified?
All the wants you've waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbled
And you're left with just a thing
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Oh, where's your crown?
Perhaps Dan Gilbert, in his ill-advised letter, was right. Maybe LeBron did take some of that "Cleveland curse" with him to South Beach. Because it was obvious his so-called talents failed him when he needed them most.
He was roasted by the national media, and rightfully so. Instead of using it as motivation, he tucked tail. He failed as a player, as a superstar ... as a man.
And, Joe Cleveland enjoyed every single solitary second of it.
Of course, there's the LeBron bandwagoners who say, "How can you hate on a guy when you cheered your hearts out for him for seven years (or longer, if you liked him at Akron SVSM)?" Well, it's easy to root for a guy who is disloyal.
Cleveland fans are the epitome of "root for the front of the jersey, not the back" fans. It doesn't matter who is in those uniforms, as long as they represent those teams, we will root our blessed hearts out for him ... until the moment he leaves. Then, he's Public Enemy No. 1.
There's a few players who we root against even though they play for Cleveland. Gerard Warren was a good example of that. Derek Anderson, toward the end of his run, was another. If you drag ass, fans will turn on you. And, in fact, as LeBron quit during the Celtics series last season (Game 5), fans started to turn on him, too.
Fans booed him after Game 6. If that's a reason he left, so be it, because Cleveland fans bleed, sweat and die for their sports teams. We put up with a lot of losing, but if you show heart and determination and some skill, we'll love you forever ...
Or, until you break our hearts by leaving as a free agent.
LeBron not only left, but he did it in such an embarassing fashion that it just caused universal hate. All those things we put up with, like his non-tipping at restaurants, his wearing of the Yankee hat at the Indians playoff series, his standing on the Cowboy sideline during a Browns season opener, his shooting a free throw left handed because "his elbow hurt," were fair game.
I wish I may
I wish I might
Have this wish I wish tonight
I want that star
I want it now
I want it all and I don't care how
Careful what you wish
Careful what you say
Careful what you wish
You may regret it
Careful what you wish
You just might get it
Yes, LeChoke, be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it.
In this case, you wished to take your so-called talents to South Beach so you could have some "help." And, with your "help," you suffered one of the most memorable losses in NBA Finals history.
Yes, Dallas beat you, and beat you handily, but you also melted down in the bright lights, and we all watched it.
This was your chance to put the Cleveland haters in their place. Instead, you proved us all right.
We will enjoy this day for a long time. No, this wasn't a championship for the Browns, the Indians or the Cavs. However, when a bitter enemy loses a championship, it's a pretty decent consolation prize.
The Steelers lost the Super Bowl AND LeChoke lost an NBA Final with his co-horts D-Shade and Chris "Snoop Doggy" Bosh. If Boston and/or the Yankees can lose the World Series, the trifecta can be reached.
For those who say that Dan Gilbert and the Cavs failed LeBron, are you high? Joe Cleveland has something to say to you.
Every single move the Cavs made from 2006 through 09 was made with LeBron in mind. In fact, LeBron personally signed off on every move.
The trade for Ben Wallace, Szcerbiak and Delonte West? LeBron gave the OK.
The trade for Antawn Jamison for Z? LeBron gave the OK.
The signing of Z, Anthony Parker and Varejao to long-term deals? LeBron gave the OK.
The non-trading of J.J. Hickson? Thank LeBron for that.
The trade for Mo Williams? LeBron wanted a sidekick.
And, it was LeBron who held the Cavs hostage and led them to believe that they were the frontrunner for his services returning during the free agency period, not telling the team until after his decision special. And, essentially not allowing the Cavs to come up with a Plan B in the case that they would (and did) lose him.
So, yes, while Dan Gilbert fostered the LeBron favoritism, they were trying to placate the superstar they believed would give them a championship. They were wrong, and they turned on him as fast as he turned on them.
And, both won as many titles as the other did this year -- ZERO!
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbled
And you're left with just a name
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Nothing
Perhaps it was karma being a so-called bitch to LeBron, after all. Perhaps Dan Gilbert was right.
Perhaps this is the start of some positive things for our Cleveland teams. Of course, the Indians are playing terribly at the moment, but last I checked, they were still in first place in their division.
Perhaps LeChoke's maneuver will cause the NBA to lockout its players and make thing right to level the playing field for the teams like the Cavs. Heck, perhaps it causes the NBA to lose a whole season, giving the Cavs another high draft choice for the 2012 draft?
Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps ...
Joe Cleveland is a very happy person tonight. LeDouche may wind up eventually winning a championship or two. But, he didn't this year. I think we as Cleveland fans can finally put him in the rear-view mirror for good and focus on our own teams.
No you're just nothing
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
No you're just nothing
absolutely nothing
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Wish I might
Have this I wish tonight
Are you satisfied?
Dig for gold
Dig for fame
You dig to make your name
Are you pacified?
All the wants you waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbling
And you're left with just name
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Where's your crown?
Joe Cleveland doesn't much care for this particular Metallica album (Load), but this song is just so apt for what we witnessed (no pun intended) these past few weeks.
LeQuitter, choking on the biggest stage of them all, especially in the clutch, when he famously left one year ago because, as he put it, "couldn't win a championshp all by himself."
Apparently, he can't win a championship with one other superstar and another guy who everyone thought was a superstar, but is just an overpaid role player. Oh yeah, and a huge collection of nobodies and has beens (like Z) who took the minimum hoping to glom on to this team to win a championship.
Well, where's your crown, King Nothing?
Joe Cleveland read some great Facebook updates tonight, such as "turn your phones on vibrate, so, in honor of LeBron, it has no ring." It was great to read and see all the joy around this area, because pariah No. 2 (behind Art "Judas" Modell) fell on his ass and did not win a title.
Hot and cold
Bought and Sold
A heart as hard as gold
Yeah! Are you satisfied?
Wish I might
Wish I may
You wish your life away
Are you pacified?
All the wants you've waste
All the things you've chased
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbled
And you're left with just a thing
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Oh, where's your crown?
Perhaps Dan Gilbert, in his ill-advised letter, was right. Maybe LeBron did take some of that "Cleveland curse" with him to South Beach. Because it was obvious his so-called talents failed him when he needed them most.
He was roasted by the national media, and rightfully so. Instead of using it as motivation, he tucked tail. He failed as a player, as a superstar ... as a man.
And, Joe Cleveland enjoyed every single solitary second of it.
Of course, there's the LeBron bandwagoners who say, "How can you hate on a guy when you cheered your hearts out for him for seven years (or longer, if you liked him at Akron SVSM)?" Well, it's easy to root for a guy who is disloyal.
Cleveland fans are the epitome of "root for the front of the jersey, not the back" fans. It doesn't matter who is in those uniforms, as long as they represent those teams, we will root our blessed hearts out for him ... until the moment he leaves. Then, he's Public Enemy No. 1.
There's a few players who we root against even though they play for Cleveland. Gerard Warren was a good example of that. Derek Anderson, toward the end of his run, was another. If you drag ass, fans will turn on you. And, in fact, as LeBron quit during the Celtics series last season (Game 5), fans started to turn on him, too.
Fans booed him after Game 6. If that's a reason he left, so be it, because Cleveland fans bleed, sweat and die for their sports teams. We put up with a lot of losing, but if you show heart and determination and some skill, we'll love you forever ...
Or, until you break our hearts by leaving as a free agent.
LeBron not only left, but he did it in such an embarassing fashion that it just caused universal hate. All those things we put up with, like his non-tipping at restaurants, his wearing of the Yankee hat at the Indians playoff series, his standing on the Cowboy sideline during a Browns season opener, his shooting a free throw left handed because "his elbow hurt," were fair game.
I wish I may
I wish I might
Have this wish I wish tonight
I want that star
I want it now
I want it all and I don't care how
Careful what you wish
Careful what you say
Careful what you wish
You may regret it
Careful what you wish
You just might get it
Yes, LeChoke, be careful what you wish for, because you just might get it.
In this case, you wished to take your so-called talents to South Beach so you could have some "help." And, with your "help," you suffered one of the most memorable losses in NBA Finals history.
Yes, Dallas beat you, and beat you handily, but you also melted down in the bright lights, and we all watched it.
This was your chance to put the Cleveland haters in their place. Instead, you proved us all right.
We will enjoy this day for a long time. No, this wasn't a championship for the Browns, the Indians or the Cavs. However, when a bitter enemy loses a championship, it's a pretty decent consolation prize.
The Steelers lost the Super Bowl AND LeChoke lost an NBA Final with his co-horts D-Shade and Chris "Snoop Doggy" Bosh. If Boston and/or the Yankees can lose the World Series, the trifecta can be reached.
For those who say that Dan Gilbert and the Cavs failed LeBron, are you high? Joe Cleveland has something to say to you.
Every single move the Cavs made from 2006 through 09 was made with LeBron in mind. In fact, LeBron personally signed off on every move.
The trade for Ben Wallace, Szcerbiak and Delonte West? LeBron gave the OK.
The trade for Antawn Jamison for Z? LeBron gave the OK.
The signing of Z, Anthony Parker and Varejao to long-term deals? LeBron gave the OK.
The non-trading of J.J. Hickson? Thank LeBron for that.
The trade for Mo Williams? LeBron wanted a sidekick.
And, it was LeBron who held the Cavs hostage and led them to believe that they were the frontrunner for his services returning during the free agency period, not telling the team until after his decision special. And, essentially not allowing the Cavs to come up with a Plan B in the case that they would (and did) lose him.
So, yes, while Dan Gilbert fostered the LeBron favoritism, they were trying to placate the superstar they believed would give them a championship. They were wrong, and they turned on him as fast as he turned on them.
And, both won as many titles as the other did this year -- ZERO!
Then it all crashes down
And you break your crown
And you point your finger
But there's no one around
Just want one thing
Just to play the king
But the castle's crumbled
And you're left with just a name
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
Nothing
Perhaps it was karma being a so-called bitch to LeBron, after all. Perhaps Dan Gilbert was right.
Perhaps this is the start of some positive things for our Cleveland teams. Of course, the Indians are playing terribly at the moment, but last I checked, they were still in first place in their division.
Perhaps LeChoke's maneuver will cause the NBA to lockout its players and make thing right to level the playing field for the teams like the Cavs. Heck, perhaps it causes the NBA to lose a whole season, giving the Cavs another high draft choice for the 2012 draft?
Perhaps, perhaps, perhaps ...
Joe Cleveland is a very happy person tonight. LeDouche may wind up eventually winning a championship or two. But, he didn't this year. I think we as Cleveland fans can finally put him in the rear-view mirror for good and focus on our own teams.
No you're just nothing
Where's your crown, King Nothing?
No you're just nothing
absolutely nothing
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Wednesday, May 18, 2011
Is Cleveland's fortunes turning?
Last July, when a certain NBA superstar announced on national TV that he was taking his so-called talents somewhere else, Cavs owner Dan Gilbert responded like so many Cleveland fans did when they heard the news:
He responded with an angry open-letter to the fans, ripping the "Decision-maker" for all the he was, announced that the Cavs would win an NBA title before the Heat did (still technically true; the Heat haven't won anything yet) and predicted that the so-called "Cleveland Curse" would follow LeQuitter with him to Miami and that "better times would be ahead for Cleveland."
Has it? Well, let's take stock:
1. The Indians have the best record in Major League Baseball at the moment, when everyone predicted they'd be the worst, or one of the worst, teams in the American League.
2. The Browns made another coaching change, but one that is along the same line of vision as Browns President Mike Holmgren and GM Tom Heckert and one who's offensive philosophies play into the strength of current quarterback Colt McCoy.
3. The Browns' Peyton Hillis was voted to be on the cover of Madden 12 by a wide-margin in a nationwide contest that spanned a month.
4. The Cavs lost a record 26 consecutive games, but wound up trading waste-of-spaces Mo Williams and Jamario Moon for All-Star point guard Baron Davis and the Clippers' first-round pick, giving them two lottery choices that led to ...
5. The Cavs making out in the NBA Draft Lottery, turning the Clippers' pick into the top-overall selection and having the No. 4 pick of their own. They became the first team since 1983 to have two picks in the top four.
6. The Browns stockpiled draft choices for this year and next year from the Falcons, and acquired mammoth defensive tackle Phil Taylor, pass-rushing defensive end Jabaal Sheard and athletic receiver Greg Little with their top three picks.
7. The Cleveland State Vikings mens basketball team, which featured standout point guard and NBA prospect Norris Cole, ripped off 13 consecutive wins to start the season, just missed out on clinching an NCAA Tourney berth, but hosted two rounds of the NIT, winning one.
8. The Lake Erie Monsters hockey team qualified for the American Hockey League playoffs for the first time in franchise history. They did blow a 3-1 series lead with home-ice advantage (welcome to Cleveland, Monsters), but still ...
9. The Cavs did beat LeQuitter and his Heat at home just before the season concluded, a soul-cleansing win for this city if there ever was one.
10. The Indians swept the Boston Red Sox at home, which may have kick-started their run to glory. Along with that, they seem to recapturing that Jacobs Field magic that was so prevelant back in the 1990s with several late-inning, last at-bat victories.
Now, if the Bulls can dispatch the Heat in the postseason, then we'll really be on to something. However, you can feel it in the air.
There seems to be a better feeling surrounding our sports teams. People are excited about the Browns progress (although, it doesn't take much to be excited about the Browns) and are hopeful the lockout ends soon so they can play some games. There is an optimism surrounding the Cavs that didn't seem to exist when LeQuitter bolted and then came back in December to rub our noses into it with a blowout victory. And, the Indians ... the fans may not be flocking to the Jake (or Progressive, whatever), but people are certainly paying attention to this team, that's for sure.
In recent memory, you'd have to go back to 2007, when the Cavs reached the NBA Finals, the Indians were one game away from an improbable World Series berth, and the Browns won 10 games (the most since 1994) and were an eyelash away from a playoff berth, to find such bubbling optimism surrounding our sports teams.
Sure, those bubbles burst on the Indians and Browns pretty quickly, and the Cavs made it back to playoffs the next three seasons but came up empty each time before you-know-who decided to tuck tail and abandon his home region, so you have to prepare for the worst. This is Cleveland, after all, and history dictates it as such.
But, maybe there is something to what Dan Gilbert alluded to. Maybe, when LeQuitter proclaimed that "karma was a bitch" after the L.A. Lakers beat the Cavs by 55 points at home, that turned the tides for good. Since then, the Cavs rebounded to beat both the Lakers and his beloved Heat, Hillis got the Madden cover, and you know the rest.
And, of course, with the NBA, you always have to smell a bit of a rat. When the Timberwolves' GM made an ill-advised joke about how the league loves good stories, and when the Cavs brought out Gilbert's son Nick, who suffers from a serious disease, to represent them at the lottery, he knew he "was done for," people assumed he was saying the lottery was rigged. Others believe that the NBA gave the Cavs the first and fourth as compensation for the way LeBron humilated them and the league with his "Decision" and to shut Gilbert up on his allegations of LeBron tanking the playoff games and that Pat Riley colluded with all three during the season.
If that's the case, so be it. It's about time Cleveland got some due and some good luck. If it was rigged, so be it. After watching Michael Jordan get breathed on by Cavs defenders and get foul calls, while also walking 6 steps to the basket without a travel call, it's time the NBA tilted the scales in Cleveland's favor.
Do I think it's rigged? Not necessarily, although I've been alleging for years that the NBA has been on the shady side since the 1980s, so it wouldn't surprise me.
Can the Indians keep it up? Will the Tribe make the right trades needed to get over the playoff hump? Will the Cavs improve next season and take the next step toward getting back into contention? Will the perennial rebuilding stop for the Browns with more wins than losses for once? These are questions that still seek answering. However, it appears we can answer these questions with a little more confidence and pride instead of blind optimism.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
And LeBron, you can take your so-called apology, shine it up real nice, turn it sideways, and stick it straight up your candy-ass (yes, I blatently ripped off The Rock, but it conveyed my feelings the best way possible)! Go Bulls!
He responded with an angry open-letter to the fans, ripping the "Decision-maker" for all the he was, announced that the Cavs would win an NBA title before the Heat did (still technically true; the Heat haven't won anything yet) and predicted that the so-called "Cleveland Curse" would follow LeQuitter with him to Miami and that "better times would be ahead for Cleveland."
Has it? Well, let's take stock:
1. The Indians have the best record in Major League Baseball at the moment, when everyone predicted they'd be the worst, or one of the worst, teams in the American League.
2. The Browns made another coaching change, but one that is along the same line of vision as Browns President Mike Holmgren and GM Tom Heckert and one who's offensive philosophies play into the strength of current quarterback Colt McCoy.
3. The Browns' Peyton Hillis was voted to be on the cover of Madden 12 by a wide-margin in a nationwide contest that spanned a month.
4. The Cavs lost a record 26 consecutive games, but wound up trading waste-of-spaces Mo Williams and Jamario Moon for All-Star point guard Baron Davis and the Clippers' first-round pick, giving them two lottery choices that led to ...
5. The Cavs making out in the NBA Draft Lottery, turning the Clippers' pick into the top-overall selection and having the No. 4 pick of their own. They became the first team since 1983 to have two picks in the top four.
6. The Browns stockpiled draft choices for this year and next year from the Falcons, and acquired mammoth defensive tackle Phil Taylor, pass-rushing defensive end Jabaal Sheard and athletic receiver Greg Little with their top three picks.
7. The Cleveland State Vikings mens basketball team, which featured standout point guard and NBA prospect Norris Cole, ripped off 13 consecutive wins to start the season, just missed out on clinching an NCAA Tourney berth, but hosted two rounds of the NIT, winning one.
8. The Lake Erie Monsters hockey team qualified for the American Hockey League playoffs for the first time in franchise history. They did blow a 3-1 series lead with home-ice advantage (welcome to Cleveland, Monsters), but still ...
9. The Cavs did beat LeQuitter and his Heat at home just before the season concluded, a soul-cleansing win for this city if there ever was one.
10. The Indians swept the Boston Red Sox at home, which may have kick-started their run to glory. Along with that, they seem to recapturing that Jacobs Field magic that was so prevelant back in the 1990s with several late-inning, last at-bat victories.
Now, if the Bulls can dispatch the Heat in the postseason, then we'll really be on to something. However, you can feel it in the air.
There seems to be a better feeling surrounding our sports teams. People are excited about the Browns progress (although, it doesn't take much to be excited about the Browns) and are hopeful the lockout ends soon so they can play some games. There is an optimism surrounding the Cavs that didn't seem to exist when LeQuitter bolted and then came back in December to rub our noses into it with a blowout victory. And, the Indians ... the fans may not be flocking to the Jake (or Progressive, whatever), but people are certainly paying attention to this team, that's for sure.
In recent memory, you'd have to go back to 2007, when the Cavs reached the NBA Finals, the Indians were one game away from an improbable World Series berth, and the Browns won 10 games (the most since 1994) and were an eyelash away from a playoff berth, to find such bubbling optimism surrounding our sports teams.
Sure, those bubbles burst on the Indians and Browns pretty quickly, and the Cavs made it back to playoffs the next three seasons but came up empty each time before you-know-who decided to tuck tail and abandon his home region, so you have to prepare for the worst. This is Cleveland, after all, and history dictates it as such.
But, maybe there is something to what Dan Gilbert alluded to. Maybe, when LeQuitter proclaimed that "karma was a bitch" after the L.A. Lakers beat the Cavs by 55 points at home, that turned the tides for good. Since then, the Cavs rebounded to beat both the Lakers and his beloved Heat, Hillis got the Madden cover, and you know the rest.
And, of course, with the NBA, you always have to smell a bit of a rat. When the Timberwolves' GM made an ill-advised joke about how the league loves good stories, and when the Cavs brought out Gilbert's son Nick, who suffers from a serious disease, to represent them at the lottery, he knew he "was done for," people assumed he was saying the lottery was rigged. Others believe that the NBA gave the Cavs the first and fourth as compensation for the way LeBron humilated them and the league with his "Decision" and to shut Gilbert up on his allegations of LeBron tanking the playoff games and that Pat Riley colluded with all three during the season.
If that's the case, so be it. It's about time Cleveland got some due and some good luck. If it was rigged, so be it. After watching Michael Jordan get breathed on by Cavs defenders and get foul calls, while also walking 6 steps to the basket without a travel call, it's time the NBA tilted the scales in Cleveland's favor.
Do I think it's rigged? Not necessarily, although I've been alleging for years that the NBA has been on the shady side since the 1980s, so it wouldn't surprise me.
Can the Indians keep it up? Will the Tribe make the right trades needed to get over the playoff hump? Will the Cavs improve next season and take the next step toward getting back into contention? Will the perennial rebuilding stop for the Browns with more wins than losses for once? These are questions that still seek answering. However, it appears we can answer these questions with a little more confidence and pride instead of blind optimism.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
And LeBron, you can take your so-called apology, shine it up real nice, turn it sideways, and stick it straight up your candy-ass (yes, I blatently ripped off The Rock, but it conveyed my feelings the best way possible)! Go Bulls!
Monday, May 2, 2011
Tressel's replacements?
Before Joe Cleveland speaks on the world of sports, I'd like to take a moment and reflect on a great thing that happened in the "real world" -- the death of Osama (or Usama) bin Laden.
Bin Laden's death should come as a joy and relief to not just Americans, but for others who live in the Free World. A despicable man who masterminded numerous terrorist attacks on many countries, including the horrific events of Sept. 11, 2001, has been snuffed out thanks to a very brave mission by American special forces units.
Putting aside personal politics and biases and all the other things that Americans fight among themselves, I believe all Americans can unite with pride that Public Enemy No. 1 was finally found, captured and (when he wouldn't go quietly) killed. Hell has a new resident, and his name is Osama bin Laden.
Moving on ...
The more Joe Cleveland hears about the Jim Tressel saga at Ohio State, the more he realizes that Ohio State better start making a list of coaching candidates, because chances are great that the Sweater Vest won't be around much longer.
Essentially, the NCAA might force OSU's hand on this one. If they want lighter sanctions, you might want to send your coach packing. The NCAA doesn't look to kindly on being lied to or deceived, especially by coaches.
If I'm Tressel, I'm reaching out to my new good friend Mike Holmgren and asking if there would be a spot for him with the Browns somewhere. They do need an offensive coordinator. How about an additional college scout? Tressel always said the one place he'd leave Columbus for was a job with his beloved Browns. He might have to do it now.
Or, maybe the Bengals try to cash in on Buckeye fans locally by hiring Tressel as their new head coach when Marvin Lewis' contract expires. Mike Brown has some ties to Ohio State, since his dad was one of their great head coaches, and Cincy has always had a history of drafting players from OSU. I don't think Tressel is cut out to be an NFL coach, but at this point, any job might be a good job.
After the John Cooper debacle, Ohio State has made it known that they will only be interested in head coaches with Ohio State or Ohio ties -- coaches who understand the traditions of Ohio State football; coaches who embrace the rich Michigan rivalry and rivalries with other schools in the Big Ten; coaches who will continue to recruit the top athletes in the state of Ohio. Tressel did that (even though he lied). Whoever takes his place will have to do it as well.
Also, when Tressel took it over, OSU was still a prominant name, but nowhere near the national powerhouse that it is. The BCS is partly responsible for that. But when you win a national championship and reach the title game in two other seasons, your school is mentioned in the same breath as the Floridas, Alabamas, USCs and Notre Dames of the world.
So, with that in mind, here's a list of candidates Gene Smith and Gordon Gee might want to consider:
1. Urban Meyer -- The No. 1 candidate on this list, mostly because he's currently unemployed. Meyer is from Ashtabula and spent time coaching at Ohio State before getting his first head coaching gig at Bowling Green. Meyer has been a winner everywhere he's gone, even at Florida, where he had big shoes to fill from Steve Spurrier and still on a national title and coached a Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. Some feel Ohio State would be a "step backward" for Meyer. Really? Ohio State has more tradition than Florida ever had. That, and OSU doesn't have to compete with Miami, Florida State, South Florida and Central Florida for in-state recruits.
2. Bob Stoops -- Stoops was believed to be Ohio State's top choice when Cooper was fired before he decided to stay at Oklahoma, where he's been ever since. Stoops is from Youngstown and also coached at Ohio State before leaving for other jobs. He took the Sooners to a national title just before the OSU job opened, and he's continued to keep them in the national spotlight. A tradition-rich program with an insane fan base, it would probably take a phenomenal offer for Stoops to leave for Columbus, especially if the program is hamstrung by NCAA sanctions (such as reduction in scholarships, bowl game restrictions, etc.)
3. Les Miles -- Miles is a "Michigan Man," but grew up in Ohio (Elyria) and still has family here. Miles turned down the opportunity to coach at his alma mater this past year, so I can't see him leaving LSU for Ohio State. However, he'd be worth an overture. Miles has made a living out of bolting job after job, so even though he turned down Michigan, maybe he felt the program wasn't in the best shape. And, besides, Bo Schembechler was an "Ohio Man" before he took the Michigan job. Maybe the historical factor would weigh in on Miles.
4. Jon Gruden -- Gruden might be higher on this list because he's currently out of a coaching job and serving as a popular football analyst on ESPN. When OSU was seeking Tressel's replacement, Gruden was one of the candidates. Another Ohio guy (Sandusky) with ties to Ohio State, Gruden was contacted when it appeared his relationship with the Raiders was fracturing. He turned it down, and wound up going to Tampa Bay one year later (leading them to a Super Bowl over his former Raider team). He's been a winner everywhere in the NFL and has a terrific knowledge of football. He's shown some great knowledge for the college game during his "QB school" run thorugh ESPN and his draft analysis. He turned down the chance to coach the Browns this season, so the college game may be up his alley. He probably woundn't be too daunted about NCAA sanctions, either.
5. Bo Pellini -- Pellini is also a Youngstown guy with ties to Ohio State. The main thing holding him back is that he's the head coach at Nebraska, which will be a conference rival of Ohio State beginning this year. I don't think he would leave Nebraska to join an in-house rival, especially when he essentially just started there and is starting to get the program back on its feet. Worth an overture, though.
6. Mike Stoops -- Bob's younger brother is currently the head coach at Arizona. The younger Stoops isn't as successful as his older brother, but he does bring with him head coaching experience at a major level and has shown an ability to field a competitive team. He'd probably be more apt to move from Arizona to Ohio State considering his situation.
7. Larry Kehres -- If Gene Smith wants to travel down the road his predecessor did with Tressel, he might want to explore Kehres. All Kehres has done has turned little Mount Union into a Division III dynasty. They rarely lose games and routinely have a date in the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl (the D-III title game). I don't know if Kehres would leave Alliance, and a jump from D-III to D-I is more severe than a jump from D-IAA to D-IA like Tressel did. I do believe the hiring would be popular in-state.
8. Frank Solich -- Solich had the misfortune of following the legendary Tom Osborne at Nebraska. All he did was win more than he lost, but it wasn't enough for the school's AD, who replaced him with ex-Raiders coach Bill Callahan. That turned out to be a disaster. Solich, who has also been arrested for a DUI, has resurfaced at Ohio University, doing decently at a smaller D-I school not known for its football prowess. Solich is also an Ohio guy (Cleveland), and a move up the road might not be out of the realm of possibility.
9. Chris Spielman -- Every time an Ohio State coaching position opens, Spielman's name is dangled. He may be the most popular ex-Buckeye ever (Archie Griffin has a legitimate case, too). Buckeye fans and alumni would be thrilled if Spielman took the job. However, he's never had very much coaching experience, let alone head coaching experience. The thing about Spielman is that he "gets it," which you can never underestimate among Buckeye fans. I'm sure he'd be considered a candidate, even it it is kind of an "honorary candidate."
10. Luke Fickell -- Why wouldn't Ohio State look for an in-house candidate like Fickell, who is currently the acting coach during Tressel's suspension? Perhaps the Buckeyes do well under Fickell while Tressel is doing his time. Would it make sense to give him the job full-time and see what happens? He's not a flashy name like some of the other guys above him, and maybe Ohio State is to the point where they would need a proven commodity to take the reins. I wouldn't discount it, though.
Darkhorses: Mark Dantonio (former top assistant at OSU has gone on to good coaching stints at Cincinnati and Michigan State); Don Treadwell (Oberlin native, filled in for Dantonio well at MSU and is now coaching at Miami OH); Butch Davis (has Ohio ties with his stint with the Browns and has shown he can build winning programs and can recruit as well as the best of them); Eric Mangini (Ohio ties from his Browns stint; might be more suited to college coaching because of his emphasis on character and was a big fan of coaching in this area); Chuck Kyle (one of the most successful Ohio high school coaches ever at St. Ignatius); Ted Ginn (has a tie-in to Ohio State with all of the kids he's sent there from Glenville and has proven to be a successful high school coach).
Any names I forgot about? Feel free to comment and include them under this post.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Bin Laden's death should come as a joy and relief to not just Americans, but for others who live in the Free World. A despicable man who masterminded numerous terrorist attacks on many countries, including the horrific events of Sept. 11, 2001, has been snuffed out thanks to a very brave mission by American special forces units.
Putting aside personal politics and biases and all the other things that Americans fight among themselves, I believe all Americans can unite with pride that Public Enemy No. 1 was finally found, captured and (when he wouldn't go quietly) killed. Hell has a new resident, and his name is Osama bin Laden.
Moving on ...
The more Joe Cleveland hears about the Jim Tressel saga at Ohio State, the more he realizes that Ohio State better start making a list of coaching candidates, because chances are great that the Sweater Vest won't be around much longer.
Essentially, the NCAA might force OSU's hand on this one. If they want lighter sanctions, you might want to send your coach packing. The NCAA doesn't look to kindly on being lied to or deceived, especially by coaches.
If I'm Tressel, I'm reaching out to my new good friend Mike Holmgren and asking if there would be a spot for him with the Browns somewhere. They do need an offensive coordinator. How about an additional college scout? Tressel always said the one place he'd leave Columbus for was a job with his beloved Browns. He might have to do it now.
Or, maybe the Bengals try to cash in on Buckeye fans locally by hiring Tressel as their new head coach when Marvin Lewis' contract expires. Mike Brown has some ties to Ohio State, since his dad was one of their great head coaches, and Cincy has always had a history of drafting players from OSU. I don't think Tressel is cut out to be an NFL coach, but at this point, any job might be a good job.
After the John Cooper debacle, Ohio State has made it known that they will only be interested in head coaches with Ohio State or Ohio ties -- coaches who understand the traditions of Ohio State football; coaches who embrace the rich Michigan rivalry and rivalries with other schools in the Big Ten; coaches who will continue to recruit the top athletes in the state of Ohio. Tressel did that (even though he lied). Whoever takes his place will have to do it as well.
Also, when Tressel took it over, OSU was still a prominant name, but nowhere near the national powerhouse that it is. The BCS is partly responsible for that. But when you win a national championship and reach the title game in two other seasons, your school is mentioned in the same breath as the Floridas, Alabamas, USCs and Notre Dames of the world.
So, with that in mind, here's a list of candidates Gene Smith and Gordon Gee might want to consider:
1. Urban Meyer -- The No. 1 candidate on this list, mostly because he's currently unemployed. Meyer is from Ashtabula and spent time coaching at Ohio State before getting his first head coaching gig at Bowling Green. Meyer has been a winner everywhere he's gone, even at Florida, where he had big shoes to fill from Steve Spurrier and still on a national title and coached a Heisman Trophy winner in Tim Tebow. Some feel Ohio State would be a "step backward" for Meyer. Really? Ohio State has more tradition than Florida ever had. That, and OSU doesn't have to compete with Miami, Florida State, South Florida and Central Florida for in-state recruits.
2. Bob Stoops -- Stoops was believed to be Ohio State's top choice when Cooper was fired before he decided to stay at Oklahoma, where he's been ever since. Stoops is from Youngstown and also coached at Ohio State before leaving for other jobs. He took the Sooners to a national title just before the OSU job opened, and he's continued to keep them in the national spotlight. A tradition-rich program with an insane fan base, it would probably take a phenomenal offer for Stoops to leave for Columbus, especially if the program is hamstrung by NCAA sanctions (such as reduction in scholarships, bowl game restrictions, etc.)
3. Les Miles -- Miles is a "Michigan Man," but grew up in Ohio (Elyria) and still has family here. Miles turned down the opportunity to coach at his alma mater this past year, so I can't see him leaving LSU for Ohio State. However, he'd be worth an overture. Miles has made a living out of bolting job after job, so even though he turned down Michigan, maybe he felt the program wasn't in the best shape. And, besides, Bo Schembechler was an "Ohio Man" before he took the Michigan job. Maybe the historical factor would weigh in on Miles.
4. Jon Gruden -- Gruden might be higher on this list because he's currently out of a coaching job and serving as a popular football analyst on ESPN. When OSU was seeking Tressel's replacement, Gruden was one of the candidates. Another Ohio guy (Sandusky) with ties to Ohio State, Gruden was contacted when it appeared his relationship with the Raiders was fracturing. He turned it down, and wound up going to Tampa Bay one year later (leading them to a Super Bowl over his former Raider team). He's been a winner everywhere in the NFL and has a terrific knowledge of football. He's shown some great knowledge for the college game during his "QB school" run thorugh ESPN and his draft analysis. He turned down the chance to coach the Browns this season, so the college game may be up his alley. He probably woundn't be too daunted about NCAA sanctions, either.
5. Bo Pellini -- Pellini is also a Youngstown guy with ties to Ohio State. The main thing holding him back is that he's the head coach at Nebraska, which will be a conference rival of Ohio State beginning this year. I don't think he would leave Nebraska to join an in-house rival, especially when he essentially just started there and is starting to get the program back on its feet. Worth an overture, though.
6. Mike Stoops -- Bob's younger brother is currently the head coach at Arizona. The younger Stoops isn't as successful as his older brother, but he does bring with him head coaching experience at a major level and has shown an ability to field a competitive team. He'd probably be more apt to move from Arizona to Ohio State considering his situation.
7. Larry Kehres -- If Gene Smith wants to travel down the road his predecessor did with Tressel, he might want to explore Kehres. All Kehres has done has turned little Mount Union into a Division III dynasty. They rarely lose games and routinely have a date in the Amos Alonzo Stagg Bowl (the D-III title game). I don't know if Kehres would leave Alliance, and a jump from D-III to D-I is more severe than a jump from D-IAA to D-IA like Tressel did. I do believe the hiring would be popular in-state.
8. Frank Solich -- Solich had the misfortune of following the legendary Tom Osborne at Nebraska. All he did was win more than he lost, but it wasn't enough for the school's AD, who replaced him with ex-Raiders coach Bill Callahan. That turned out to be a disaster. Solich, who has also been arrested for a DUI, has resurfaced at Ohio University, doing decently at a smaller D-I school not known for its football prowess. Solich is also an Ohio guy (Cleveland), and a move up the road might not be out of the realm of possibility.
9. Chris Spielman -- Every time an Ohio State coaching position opens, Spielman's name is dangled. He may be the most popular ex-Buckeye ever (Archie Griffin has a legitimate case, too). Buckeye fans and alumni would be thrilled if Spielman took the job. However, he's never had very much coaching experience, let alone head coaching experience. The thing about Spielman is that he "gets it," which you can never underestimate among Buckeye fans. I'm sure he'd be considered a candidate, even it it is kind of an "honorary candidate."
10. Luke Fickell -- Why wouldn't Ohio State look for an in-house candidate like Fickell, who is currently the acting coach during Tressel's suspension? Perhaps the Buckeyes do well under Fickell while Tressel is doing his time. Would it make sense to give him the job full-time and see what happens? He's not a flashy name like some of the other guys above him, and maybe Ohio State is to the point where they would need a proven commodity to take the reins. I wouldn't discount it, though.
Darkhorses: Mark Dantonio (former top assistant at OSU has gone on to good coaching stints at Cincinnati and Michigan State); Don Treadwell (Oberlin native, filled in for Dantonio well at MSU and is now coaching at Miami OH); Butch Davis (has Ohio ties with his stint with the Browns and has shown he can build winning programs and can recruit as well as the best of them); Eric Mangini (Ohio ties from his Browns stint; might be more suited to college coaching because of his emphasis on character and was a big fan of coaching in this area); Chuck Kyle (one of the most successful Ohio high school coaches ever at St. Ignatius); Ted Ginn (has a tie-in to Ohio State with all of the kids he's sent there from Glenville and has proven to be a successful high school coach).
Any names I forgot about? Feel free to comment and include them under this post.
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Sunday, May 1, 2011
Getting Drafty
They say it's the Browns fan's Super Bowl, because it's the day you think (and hope) that they are getting the next piece to a championship puzzle. It was draft weekend this past weekend, and, of course, Browns fans like Joe Cleveland (who became the newest member of the Dawg Pound in 2011 just before the draft began) anticipated it greatly.
The draft was different this year, in that it was taking place during a lockout, which meant free agency hadn't happened yet and no players could be traded. Also, no undrafted free agents can be signed and no draft picks can be signed, either. And, because there was nothing football-wise going on since March, this draft has been more scrutinized both before and after than I could remember.
Despite the restrictions, the Browns wasted no time making an impact, making a trade with Atlanta. They gave the Falcons their sixth-overall pick (which they used to take WR Julio Jones) and the Browns received two first-rounders, a second-rounder and two fourth-rounders.
A bounty if there ever was one, and perfect for a team that needs several holes filled, not just one.
They also made another trade, moving up from 27 in the first round to 21 (and giving up their third-rounder) to take mammoth defensive tackle Phil Taylor from Baylor with their first pick.
Of course, Joe Cleveland's phone blew up from the moment the Browns made the trade through the end of the first round. Most of the calls and texts were from folks who HATED what the Browns did. Not Joe Cleveland. He LOVED IT!
The pick of Taylor was almost a Steeler-esque pick. Pittsburgh, which has consistantly picked low in the draft for the last few years, have made a living out of picking guys who fill holes to help their team improve. A guy like Phil Taylor seems like a pick Pittsburgh would have made. Same with Baltimore.
Baltimore did it before, coaxing Phil Savage to flip-flop firsr round picks back in 2005 (and give them a sixth-rounder to do it) so they could take Halaoi Ngata instead of Kamerion Wimbley. Ngata has been a fiersome run-stopper that Baltimore needs to compete in a tough division such as the AFC North. Wimbley is now on the Raiders. Enough said.
People complain that the Browns had a big tackle in Shaun Rogers and they let him go. Rogers was good in spurts, but terrible most of the time. He barely took the field last year, nursing some phantom injuries here and there. Meanwhile, Athyba Rubin emerged as a very good nose tackle, which made Rogers expendable. That, and the move from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense.
Essentially needing three new starters in their four-man defensive front, you had to think the Browns were going to take a defensive lineman. And, they did. Actually, they did with their first two picks of the draft.
Following Taylor, the Browns selected pass-rushing defensive end Jabaal Sheard from Pitt with their first choice of the second round. Still on the board was Clemson DE Da'Quon Bowers, who many projected as the top-pick just a month ago. However, his injured knee (which may need major surgery) threw up red flags all around the league. He wound up being taken by Tampa with the 51st overall pick.
Taylor and Sheard are already penciled in as defensive line starters along with Rubin. The Browns are hopeful that Jayme Mitchell, who was acquired last season from Minnesota but never got off of Eric Mangini's bench, re-signs with the team, and linebackers Matt Roth and Marcus Benard are also possibilities to become rush ends in the 4-3.
With their next second round pick, the Browns took receiver Greg Little from North Carolina. Little is a physical specimen at receiver, who has sure hands and isn't afraid to lay down a block. He also played running back for the Tar Heels because of his athleticism. During his last year at NC, he caught over 60 passes.
Unfortunately, that was two seasons ago. He was suspended all of this season due to taking improper benefits from an agent. He was one of many North Carolina players who were suspended this year, including standout defensive end Robert Quinn. Had he played, many feel Little would have been a first-round pick.
All three players had some questions -- Taylor was kicked off of Penn State's team for fighting, but was a model citizen at Baylor; Sheard reportedly threw someone through a window in a fight, but he was not charged due to what was called "self-defense"; and Little with his agent problems. However, there's no denying the talent these players possess.
Eric Mangini would have never touched either of these players. He loved choir-boys. Unfortunately, his teams played like a bunch of choir-boys, which is why he's an analyst in ESPN and not coaching anywhere this year.
Butch Davis never saw a character flaw he couldn't ignore. However, his players were essentially thugs and malcontents, and his teams played like it (not so much on the field, but off).
They finished their draft by taking a big pass-catching tight end (USC's Jordan Cameron), a two-way athlete who will likely play fullback (Stanford's Owen Marecic), a very speedy cornerback (Tenn-Chattanooga's Buster Skrine), a big hybrid offensive lineman who grew up rooting for the Steelers (Pitt's Jason Pinkston), and a solid safety who was named his team's defensive MVP (Nebraska's Eric Hagg).
Some think the Browns should have taken Mount Union WR Cecil Shorts III in the spot they took Cameron. They argue that the Browns have plenty of pass-catching TEs in Ben Watson and Evan Moore; they need a blocker. Essentially, people have tried to question every single one of the Browns picks in some fashion.
In Joe Cleveland's opinion, you shored up your defensive front (which was the biggest need on your team), got a solid WR who should start at one of their wideout positions, got another pass catcher for the West Coast offense, added a very versitle athlete who could be an asset on special teams while also blasting holes for Montario Hardesty and Madden 12 cover boy Peyton Hillis (HELL YES!!!), added some depth and athleticism to a bare defensive backfield, and got a future right tackle or right guard starter who could see some immediate playing time on their line.
To Joe Cleveland, that's a solid draft. And, you have two first-rounders next season. That's fantastic.
Once Marcell Dareus, Patrick Peterson and A.J. Green all went off the board, I knew the Browns would trade down. I don't think they were sold on Julio Jones. We had a guy like Julio Jones. His name was Braylon Edwards. We all remember what happened to him. Jones may not have been as much of a diva as Braylon, but he still had the same sketchy hands as Braylon. The Browns need receivers who won't drop the ball. Little won't drop the ball. Cameron won't drop the ball. That's good enough for me.
Overall, I give the Browns draft an A-/B+. I'm no expert, but I think Tom Heckert, Mike Holmgren and Pat Shurmer had a vision of what they wanted and went out and got it while setting themselves up for the future. Now, can we please end this lockout so we can get back to free agency and all the other great stuff?
***
I certainly didn't believe the Indians would go 18-8 in April. 8-18 is more like what I envisioned. But 18-8? No bleepin way!
But, here they are, 10-games over .500 with a 10-game winning streak at Progressive Field and in first place comfortably in their division heading into May. Sure, there''s a long way to go this season, but wow!
And, you've got to admire how the Indians have won these last two games -- back-to-back walkoff wins. First Carlos Santana drills a walk-off grand slam on Friday night, breaking a 5-5 tie and beating Detroit 9-5. Then, Orlando Cabrera's single in the bottom of the 13th leads to a 3-2 win over the Tigers again.
Needing a pitcher, the Indians called up No. 1 draft pick Alex White, who was the best pitcher in Columbus. Had they been mediocre, the Indians would have called up some other schlub like David Huff to keep White from starting his service time so early to save some money. But, they're winning, and they need talent to keep winning. Maybe there is hope that Dolan will crack open that rusty wallet and spend some money to improve this team.
Joe Cleveland isn't ready to annoint the Indians the belles of the ball just yet. Like I said, it's a long season, and this team has a track record of folding. However, you've got to enjoy this.
No one expected this. Manny Acta may claim he did, but NO ONE expected this. Some are comparing it to 1995. I wouldn't go that far. But, this team is starting to get exciting, and that's what fans want to see. For their sake, I hope they continue winning. This town needs a winner to exorcise the demons of LeQuitter, and with the Browns having a solid draft and a Madden cover athlete, the Cavs in positon to get much better next season and beyond and the Indians in first place, Cleveland could be well on its way to doing so.
Untl next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
The draft was different this year, in that it was taking place during a lockout, which meant free agency hadn't happened yet and no players could be traded. Also, no undrafted free agents can be signed and no draft picks can be signed, either. And, because there was nothing football-wise going on since March, this draft has been more scrutinized both before and after than I could remember.
Despite the restrictions, the Browns wasted no time making an impact, making a trade with Atlanta. They gave the Falcons their sixth-overall pick (which they used to take WR Julio Jones) and the Browns received two first-rounders, a second-rounder and two fourth-rounders.
A bounty if there ever was one, and perfect for a team that needs several holes filled, not just one.
They also made another trade, moving up from 27 in the first round to 21 (and giving up their third-rounder) to take mammoth defensive tackle Phil Taylor from Baylor with their first pick.
Of course, Joe Cleveland's phone blew up from the moment the Browns made the trade through the end of the first round. Most of the calls and texts were from folks who HATED what the Browns did. Not Joe Cleveland. He LOVED IT!
The pick of Taylor was almost a Steeler-esque pick. Pittsburgh, which has consistantly picked low in the draft for the last few years, have made a living out of picking guys who fill holes to help their team improve. A guy like Phil Taylor seems like a pick Pittsburgh would have made. Same with Baltimore.
Baltimore did it before, coaxing Phil Savage to flip-flop firsr round picks back in 2005 (and give them a sixth-rounder to do it) so they could take Halaoi Ngata instead of Kamerion Wimbley. Ngata has been a fiersome run-stopper that Baltimore needs to compete in a tough division such as the AFC North. Wimbley is now on the Raiders. Enough said.
People complain that the Browns had a big tackle in Shaun Rogers and they let him go. Rogers was good in spurts, but terrible most of the time. He barely took the field last year, nursing some phantom injuries here and there. Meanwhile, Athyba Rubin emerged as a very good nose tackle, which made Rogers expendable. That, and the move from a 3-4 to a 4-3 defense.
Essentially needing three new starters in their four-man defensive front, you had to think the Browns were going to take a defensive lineman. And, they did. Actually, they did with their first two picks of the draft.
Following Taylor, the Browns selected pass-rushing defensive end Jabaal Sheard from Pitt with their first choice of the second round. Still on the board was Clemson DE Da'Quon Bowers, who many projected as the top-pick just a month ago. However, his injured knee (which may need major surgery) threw up red flags all around the league. He wound up being taken by Tampa with the 51st overall pick.
Taylor and Sheard are already penciled in as defensive line starters along with Rubin. The Browns are hopeful that Jayme Mitchell, who was acquired last season from Minnesota but never got off of Eric Mangini's bench, re-signs with the team, and linebackers Matt Roth and Marcus Benard are also possibilities to become rush ends in the 4-3.
With their next second round pick, the Browns took receiver Greg Little from North Carolina. Little is a physical specimen at receiver, who has sure hands and isn't afraid to lay down a block. He also played running back for the Tar Heels because of his athleticism. During his last year at NC, he caught over 60 passes.
Unfortunately, that was two seasons ago. He was suspended all of this season due to taking improper benefits from an agent. He was one of many North Carolina players who were suspended this year, including standout defensive end Robert Quinn. Had he played, many feel Little would have been a first-round pick.
All three players had some questions -- Taylor was kicked off of Penn State's team for fighting, but was a model citizen at Baylor; Sheard reportedly threw someone through a window in a fight, but he was not charged due to what was called "self-defense"; and Little with his agent problems. However, there's no denying the talent these players possess.
Eric Mangini would have never touched either of these players. He loved choir-boys. Unfortunately, his teams played like a bunch of choir-boys, which is why he's an analyst in ESPN and not coaching anywhere this year.
Butch Davis never saw a character flaw he couldn't ignore. However, his players were essentially thugs and malcontents, and his teams played like it (not so much on the field, but off).
They finished their draft by taking a big pass-catching tight end (USC's Jordan Cameron), a two-way athlete who will likely play fullback (Stanford's Owen Marecic), a very speedy cornerback (Tenn-Chattanooga's Buster Skrine), a big hybrid offensive lineman who grew up rooting for the Steelers (Pitt's Jason Pinkston), and a solid safety who was named his team's defensive MVP (Nebraska's Eric Hagg).
Some think the Browns should have taken Mount Union WR Cecil Shorts III in the spot they took Cameron. They argue that the Browns have plenty of pass-catching TEs in Ben Watson and Evan Moore; they need a blocker. Essentially, people have tried to question every single one of the Browns picks in some fashion.
In Joe Cleveland's opinion, you shored up your defensive front (which was the biggest need on your team), got a solid WR who should start at one of their wideout positions, got another pass catcher for the West Coast offense, added a very versitle athlete who could be an asset on special teams while also blasting holes for Montario Hardesty and Madden 12 cover boy Peyton Hillis (HELL YES!!!), added some depth and athleticism to a bare defensive backfield, and got a future right tackle or right guard starter who could see some immediate playing time on their line.
To Joe Cleveland, that's a solid draft. And, you have two first-rounders next season. That's fantastic.
Once Marcell Dareus, Patrick Peterson and A.J. Green all went off the board, I knew the Browns would trade down. I don't think they were sold on Julio Jones. We had a guy like Julio Jones. His name was Braylon Edwards. We all remember what happened to him. Jones may not have been as much of a diva as Braylon, but he still had the same sketchy hands as Braylon. The Browns need receivers who won't drop the ball. Little won't drop the ball. Cameron won't drop the ball. That's good enough for me.
Overall, I give the Browns draft an A-/B+. I'm no expert, but I think Tom Heckert, Mike Holmgren and Pat Shurmer had a vision of what they wanted and went out and got it while setting themselves up for the future. Now, can we please end this lockout so we can get back to free agency and all the other great stuff?
***
I certainly didn't believe the Indians would go 18-8 in April. 8-18 is more like what I envisioned. But 18-8? No bleepin way!
But, here they are, 10-games over .500 with a 10-game winning streak at Progressive Field and in first place comfortably in their division heading into May. Sure, there''s a long way to go this season, but wow!
And, you've got to admire how the Indians have won these last two games -- back-to-back walkoff wins. First Carlos Santana drills a walk-off grand slam on Friday night, breaking a 5-5 tie and beating Detroit 9-5. Then, Orlando Cabrera's single in the bottom of the 13th leads to a 3-2 win over the Tigers again.
Needing a pitcher, the Indians called up No. 1 draft pick Alex White, who was the best pitcher in Columbus. Had they been mediocre, the Indians would have called up some other schlub like David Huff to keep White from starting his service time so early to save some money. But, they're winning, and they need talent to keep winning. Maybe there is hope that Dolan will crack open that rusty wallet and spend some money to improve this team.
Joe Cleveland isn't ready to annoint the Indians the belles of the ball just yet. Like I said, it's a long season, and this team has a track record of folding. However, you've got to enjoy this.
No one expected this. Manny Acta may claim he did, but NO ONE expected this. Some are comparing it to 1995. I wouldn't go that far. But, this team is starting to get exciting, and that's what fans want to see. For their sake, I hope they continue winning. This town needs a winner to exorcise the demons of LeQuitter, and with the Browns having a solid draft and a Madden cover athlete, the Cavs in positon to get much better next season and beyond and the Indians in first place, Cleveland could be well on its way to doing so.
Untl next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Indians winning in April? No foolin!
The last time Joe Cleveland graced everyone out there with his blog, he essentially wrote the epitaph to the Cleveland Indians' season.
And this was after watching ONE FREAKING GAME!!
Such as life as a Cleveland sports fan, especially a fan of the Indians. You've seen the same song and dance for the most part since 2002, you kind of expect it.
But, to our amazement, the Indians shrugged off that Opening Day beating (and one the day after) to start winning!
Yes, Charlie Sheen, I said WINNING! What a novel concept for our Wahoo Warriors.
Under Eric Wedge, losing in April was a common occurance. Whenever the team did start getting their stuff together, it was August, and Browns training camp had opened, and the Indians were already 15 games out of first, and they had already dealt two of the best players for prospects that still needed seasoning down on the farm, and ... well, you catch my drift. The fact is, they usually won when no one paid attention anymore.
So, when they pointed out their 14-9 September, fans probably thought they were making it up. After all, the Browns were starting the season 0-3 and that's what everyone cares about.
This year, Manny Acta was doing the same song and dance about a strong finish that nine people probably paid attention to (eight of which work for the Indians) and fans tuned him out. They looked a team that was so cheap, they trotted out a career minor leaguer to start at third base and tried to pawn it off as a legitimate move. They looked a team that seemed hell bent on trading their top guys before they could test the free agency market because they knew there was no chance in hell they were going to sign them instead of playing to win. They, like Joe Cleveland, could really care less.
So, after the team played to everyone's expectations by looking like Columbus Clippers in their first two games, the fans tuned out in droves.
It wasn't until the Indians swept the high-priced, ESPN-darling Boston Red Sox and their annoying self-rightous 'Nation' that some fans began to pay attention.
Well, I saw "some fans", because home games at Progressive Field look a lot like they did in the 1980s at the old Cleveland Stadium -- heavy on the empty seats.
Sure, the weather has something to do with it, and this April has been especially dismal this year, both temperature-wise and precipitation-wise. The expectations for the team have something to do with it. And, a general distaste for all things Larry Dolan still play a big part in it, whether the Indians want to believe it or not.
But, they're winning ... and they're winning the right way.
Fundamental baseball! What a novel concept! That's something I haven't seen in a long time. I NEVER saw it under The Grinder (that's my nickname for Wedge, since he always talked about how the team "had to keeep grindin.")
Sacrifice bunts! YES! Solid starting pitching! YES! A great bullpen! YES! An offense that is doing well despite two of their best players slumping (Shin-Soo Choo and Carlos Santana) and a third (Grady Sizemore) just now coming off the DL!
YES-YES-YES!!
Joe Cleveland will still admit to being very hard on Paul and Larry Cheapass, because I still haven't seen a true committment to winning out of these two since Larry Dolan exclaimed that his goals for the team were "World Series championships (plural)" upon buying the team in 2000. And, a litmus test will be come June or July and this team is still keeping up their pace -- will they chisel off the vault and pry it open to get this team an additional bat or arm to make a legitimate playoff push? They did it in 2007 to a degree (although, adding an aging Kenny Lofton wasn't exactly opening up the purse strings). Will they do it in 2011?
And, I'll admit to being skeptical of whether the Indians can continue this trend. They just suffered their first three-game losing streak (getting swept by the last-place Twins) before pummelling the Royals as I type this Monday night. I think a lot of the fan base is waiting for that other shoe to drop on the Indians.
However, let's forget about long-term for a second and enjoy this for what it is.
The Indians are in first place! FIRST FREAKING PLACE! In April, for crissakes.
The Cavs just finished second-worst in the NBA and are heading for a lockout. The Browns' draft is coming up, but their labor situation is a mess (are they locked out anymore? Is it over? What?), and the 2011 season is still kind of up in the air.
Sure, the minor-league Lake Erie Monsters are in the playoffs, playing in a Game 7 as I write this, but it's minor league hockey. Cleveland is still a major league town, and we want our major league teams to win.
So, let's enjoy the winning for once. Will they still be winning at this time next month or in two months? Who knows? Common-sense says "No," but common-sense predicted a 7-16 April for the Indians and a 16-7 month for likes of Boston and Minnesota.
The Indians are in first place. Joe Cleveland is ready to enjoy it. How about you?
***
Just so you know, you only have a few more hours to vote in the Madden 12 cover player tournament. And, in case you were living under a rock, a Browns player is in the finals.
That's right, Peyton Hillis has a legitimate chance to grace the cover of the popular NFL video game this summer if he can get more votes than convicted dog torturer and killer Michael Vick.
I'm sure EA Sports didn't envision a final of an unknown player from a lackluster team vs. a pariah who once graced their cover a few years ago that fans are still pretty split on (you either hate him or have forgiven him. If you're an Eagle fan, you've probably forgiven him). But, this is what happens when you let the fans decide.
Hillis has been bouyed by strong support from the Browns organization, along with a movement among the social networking sites Facebook and Twittter promoting him as a viable alternative to the usual athlete that graces the Madden cover. And, let's not forget that Browns fans are the most loyal and passionat fans in the NFL.
Disagree? When a moron tries to move the team to Baltimore, and the fanbase unites in full-force to force the NFL to do something drastic, that speaks volumes about how passionate and loyal Browns fans are. I don't see Houston's new team nicknamed "Oilers," do you?
The EA people are already spinning it saying that Hillis "epitomizes what a John Madden-esque football player is all about." That tells me they've made up their mind as to who they'd like to see on the cover, and it isn't the felon.
Sure, there's that "Madden curse" thing that's out there. Every player whose graced the Madden video game cover has either suffered a season-ending injury, or been hampered with injuries, or had a poor performance the following season. And, everyone out there is envisioning a season-ending injury for Hillis if he gets the cover.
You know what? Hillis' style of play leaves him open to injuries. He would probably be injured if he was on the cover or not. And, it appears that Montario Hardesty is going to cut in Hillis' workload, which should leave him fresher and healthier as the season goes on.
You say the word "curse" in Cleveland and people freak out. We need another "curse" like we need a hole in the head, right? Well, maybe two curses cancel each other out. Maybe Dan Gilbert was right in that LeQuitter took the supposed curse with him to Miami (we'll see in the next few weeks if the Heat get bounced in the playoffs). Maybe something as small as the Indians getting off to a hot-start is proof of that. Who knows?
All I know is, Hillis is a guy who doesn't make millions of dollars, but goes out and plays football because he loves it. He loves contact, he loves running over people (or hurdling them) and flexing those guns when he scores touchdowns (which he did a lot of). He's humble, a Christian, the epitome of a "good-ol-boy." It's time for a blue-collar guy representing a blue-collar team, fanbase and community to get some love instead of the usual primadonnas that grace the cover.
Get out there and vote for Hillis. Give the Browns some exposure. Show the NFL andn the ESPNs of the world that Cleveland isn't some "outpost" that is irrelevant because LeQuitter took his so-called talents somewhere south. Screw the so-called curse!
I've voted for Hillis so many times so far, I lost count. Follow Joe Cleveland's lead and do the same while you can.
And, be honest, do you really want Michael Vick to be on the cover of a video game that, despite being extremely popular with adults, is still being marketed to kids?
Follow this link and do the right thing:
http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/feature/madden2012cover
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
And this was after watching ONE FREAKING GAME!!
Such as life as a Cleveland sports fan, especially a fan of the Indians. You've seen the same song and dance for the most part since 2002, you kind of expect it.
But, to our amazement, the Indians shrugged off that Opening Day beating (and one the day after) to start winning!
Yes, Charlie Sheen, I said WINNING! What a novel concept for our Wahoo Warriors.
Under Eric Wedge, losing in April was a common occurance. Whenever the team did start getting their stuff together, it was August, and Browns training camp had opened, and the Indians were already 15 games out of first, and they had already dealt two of the best players for prospects that still needed seasoning down on the farm, and ... well, you catch my drift. The fact is, they usually won when no one paid attention anymore.
So, when they pointed out their 14-9 September, fans probably thought they were making it up. After all, the Browns were starting the season 0-3 and that's what everyone cares about.
This year, Manny Acta was doing the same song and dance about a strong finish that nine people probably paid attention to (eight of which work for the Indians) and fans tuned him out. They looked a team that was so cheap, they trotted out a career minor leaguer to start at third base and tried to pawn it off as a legitimate move. They looked a team that seemed hell bent on trading their top guys before they could test the free agency market because they knew there was no chance in hell they were going to sign them instead of playing to win. They, like Joe Cleveland, could really care less.
So, after the team played to everyone's expectations by looking like Columbus Clippers in their first two games, the fans tuned out in droves.
It wasn't until the Indians swept the high-priced, ESPN-darling Boston Red Sox and their annoying self-rightous 'Nation' that some fans began to pay attention.
Well, I saw "some fans", because home games at Progressive Field look a lot like they did in the 1980s at the old Cleveland Stadium -- heavy on the empty seats.
Sure, the weather has something to do with it, and this April has been especially dismal this year, both temperature-wise and precipitation-wise. The expectations for the team have something to do with it. And, a general distaste for all things Larry Dolan still play a big part in it, whether the Indians want to believe it or not.
But, they're winning ... and they're winning the right way.
Fundamental baseball! What a novel concept! That's something I haven't seen in a long time. I NEVER saw it under The Grinder (that's my nickname for Wedge, since he always talked about how the team "had to keeep grindin.")
Sacrifice bunts! YES! Solid starting pitching! YES! A great bullpen! YES! An offense that is doing well despite two of their best players slumping (Shin-Soo Choo and Carlos Santana) and a third (Grady Sizemore) just now coming off the DL!
YES-YES-YES!!
Joe Cleveland will still admit to being very hard on Paul and Larry Cheapass, because I still haven't seen a true committment to winning out of these two since Larry Dolan exclaimed that his goals for the team were "World Series championships (plural)" upon buying the team in 2000. And, a litmus test will be come June or July and this team is still keeping up their pace -- will they chisel off the vault and pry it open to get this team an additional bat or arm to make a legitimate playoff push? They did it in 2007 to a degree (although, adding an aging Kenny Lofton wasn't exactly opening up the purse strings). Will they do it in 2011?
And, I'll admit to being skeptical of whether the Indians can continue this trend. They just suffered their first three-game losing streak (getting swept by the last-place Twins) before pummelling the Royals as I type this Monday night. I think a lot of the fan base is waiting for that other shoe to drop on the Indians.
However, let's forget about long-term for a second and enjoy this for what it is.
The Indians are in first place! FIRST FREAKING PLACE! In April, for crissakes.
The Cavs just finished second-worst in the NBA and are heading for a lockout. The Browns' draft is coming up, but their labor situation is a mess (are they locked out anymore? Is it over? What?), and the 2011 season is still kind of up in the air.
Sure, the minor-league Lake Erie Monsters are in the playoffs, playing in a Game 7 as I write this, but it's minor league hockey. Cleveland is still a major league town, and we want our major league teams to win.
So, let's enjoy the winning for once. Will they still be winning at this time next month or in two months? Who knows? Common-sense says "No," but common-sense predicted a 7-16 April for the Indians and a 16-7 month for likes of Boston and Minnesota.
The Indians are in first place. Joe Cleveland is ready to enjoy it. How about you?
***
Just so you know, you only have a few more hours to vote in the Madden 12 cover player tournament. And, in case you were living under a rock, a Browns player is in the finals.
That's right, Peyton Hillis has a legitimate chance to grace the cover of the popular NFL video game this summer if he can get more votes than convicted dog torturer and killer Michael Vick.
I'm sure EA Sports didn't envision a final of an unknown player from a lackluster team vs. a pariah who once graced their cover a few years ago that fans are still pretty split on (you either hate him or have forgiven him. If you're an Eagle fan, you've probably forgiven him). But, this is what happens when you let the fans decide.
Hillis has been bouyed by strong support from the Browns organization, along with a movement among the social networking sites Facebook and Twittter promoting him as a viable alternative to the usual athlete that graces the Madden cover. And, let's not forget that Browns fans are the most loyal and passionat fans in the NFL.
Disagree? When a moron tries to move the team to Baltimore, and the fanbase unites in full-force to force the NFL to do something drastic, that speaks volumes about how passionate and loyal Browns fans are. I don't see Houston's new team nicknamed "Oilers," do you?
The EA people are already spinning it saying that Hillis "epitomizes what a John Madden-esque football player is all about." That tells me they've made up their mind as to who they'd like to see on the cover, and it isn't the felon.
Sure, there's that "Madden curse" thing that's out there. Every player whose graced the Madden video game cover has either suffered a season-ending injury, or been hampered with injuries, or had a poor performance the following season. And, everyone out there is envisioning a season-ending injury for Hillis if he gets the cover.
You know what? Hillis' style of play leaves him open to injuries. He would probably be injured if he was on the cover or not. And, it appears that Montario Hardesty is going to cut in Hillis' workload, which should leave him fresher and healthier as the season goes on.
You say the word "curse" in Cleveland and people freak out. We need another "curse" like we need a hole in the head, right? Well, maybe two curses cancel each other out. Maybe Dan Gilbert was right in that LeQuitter took the supposed curse with him to Miami (we'll see in the next few weeks if the Heat get bounced in the playoffs). Maybe something as small as the Indians getting off to a hot-start is proof of that. Who knows?
All I know is, Hillis is a guy who doesn't make millions of dollars, but goes out and plays football because he loves it. He loves contact, he loves running over people (or hurdling them) and flexing those guns when he scores touchdowns (which he did a lot of). He's humble, a Christian, the epitome of a "good-ol-boy." It's time for a blue-collar guy representing a blue-collar team, fanbase and community to get some love instead of the usual primadonnas that grace the cover.
Get out there and vote for Hillis. Give the Browns some exposure. Show the NFL andn the ESPNs of the world that Cleveland isn't some "outpost" that is irrelevant because LeQuitter took his so-called talents somewhere south. Screw the so-called curse!
I've voted for Hillis so many times so far, I lost count. Follow Joe Cleveland's lead and do the same while you can.
And, be honest, do you really want Michael Vick to be on the cover of a video game that, despite being extremely popular with adults, is still being marketed to kids?
Follow this link and do the right thing:
http://espn.go.com/sportsnation/feature/madden2012cover
Until next time, remember that Cleveland Rocks!
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