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Andrew Bynum: Do You Trust Him with the Keys?

Friday, October 12th, 2012

by Dante Johnson

 

 

 

 

 

Andrew Bynum has been handed the keys to the 76ers.  Heck, he’s been handed the keys to the entire city.  The heralded all-star center arrived this summer to high expectations.  In the blockbuster four-team trade this summer, the 76ers landed one of the premiere big men in the NBA today.  Oh how, the city welcomed him in grand fashion.  Hundreds of screaming fans showed up to greet him at the National Constitution Center, the site of his first press conference.  Along with his arrival, the 76ers immediately went from being a perennial 6-7-8 seed to a top 4 seed in the East.  Everyone was having visions of grandeur.  Just close your eyes and imagine a Bynum-led offense with newly-acquired perimeter shooters Jason Richardson, Dorell Wright, and Nick Young knocking down uncontested jumpers because of the attention that would be the result of having a premiere big man in the paint.  Oh how, Evan Turner and Jrue Holiday could continue their natural progression and assume the “faces-of-the-franchise” role suddenly left vacant with the departure of the veteran and often criticized, Andre Iguodala.  For the record, I liked the taller “A.I.” and accepted him for what he could do and didn’t kid myself into thinking he was more than that (unlike the 76ers and Coach Doug Collins). 

Yes, this is the year we make serious strides in making some real noise in the playoffs, right?  Well, there is the little matter of trying to keep Bynum in Philadelphia for more than just this season (he earns $16.1 million this year, the last year of his contract).  There’s also that matter of the 76ers heralded big off-season acquisition being on the shelf for, at the very least, the entire preseason.  His off-season knee surgery/procedure needs precautionary “healing” time and the team reports that he has a bone bruise in his right knee.  Bynum received Orthokine therapy at the suggestion of ex-teammate Kobe Bryant to help stimulate healing in arthritis-affected areas in both of his knees.  Still trust him with the keys?  I was as excited as every other 76er fan when I heard the news that the front office of our beloved, new-energy-infused basketball team had done more than just talk about getting better, they backed it up.  The new ownership group had actually put their actions where their mouths were and somehow, someway made a gigantic move to bring that talk to fruition. 

I was (and still am) eagerly looking forward to having a bona fide all-star big man on the roster.  We haven’t had one since…well since…Moses Malone unceremoniously was shipped out of town by that stupid, stupid man, Harold Katz (did I mention he was stupid?).  And now, we have one in Andrew Bynum.  Oh yeah, and there’s also that little question of his maturity.  Last year, it was reported that Bynum was involved in a couple of situations where he didn’t see eye-to-eye with Lakers coach Mike Brown and the front office.  There are times when he doesn’t display the maturity you would like to see from your franchise player.  Another instance involved the flagrant foul in the 2011 NBA playoffs against the Dallas Mavericks’ J.J. Barea.  The foul was unnecessary and really brought his maturity into question.  Now, am I the only person concerned about this?  Let’s face it, if Bynum is all that we expect him to be (20 points, 10 rebounds & intimidating in the paint), then, there’s no question we want him in Philadelphia for the foreseeable future.  Heck, if he is what we hope he is, throw the maximum at him to keep him.  But, there’s that pesky little word…”if”.  Bynum has missed 130 out of a possible 394 games the past five seasons.  Remember, we’ve given him the keys.  Can he be trusted?  Will he be responsible with the keys?

I asked myself those questions in the midst of the screaming fans at the National Constitution Center this past August.  I was fully aware that what I was experiencing at that introductory press conference was the first stage of a year-long courting of Andrew Bynum.  That day was the day we handed over the keys to the city to a 24 year old, seemingly “not-quite-as-mature-as-he-should-be”, multi-million dollar basketball player.  Is anybody else worried about this?  Is it just me?  The last time we turned the city over to a mutli-million dollar basketball player who was “not-quite-as-mature-as-he-should-be”, it was “Mr. Practice” himself, Allen Iverson.  Now, don’t get me wrong here, the A.I. era of Sixers basketball was indeed exciting and brought us a memorable championship run in 2001 (and I thank him for that).  For that stretch of time our city had one of the most iconic players of his time packing the house (whatever the “house” was called at that time but, hey it was jumping).  I know this is an argument for another time, but after MJ retired, A.I. was the iconic figure of the NBA.  But along with the good came the bad.  Among the worst was how A.I. and entourage would invade the T.G.I.Fridays on City Ave. and turn it into “Club Fridays”.  Nothing wrong with that, right?  Yes, that wouldn’t have been so bad except, if you weren’t on the list it was very hard getting in (and I loved my Jack Daniel’s shrimp back then).  Bynum, could potentially find himself on the wrong end of the decision-making process that requires maturity to navigate this city’s social scene.  Will he be the face of the hip-hop culture that the young people gravitate to today like A.I. was?  I doubt that, but it is a lot of responsibility.  

When your dad finally entrusts you with the keys to the car for the first time it’s a huge moment.  It signifies the trust he now has in, not only your ability to drive, but it also shows the trust he has in your ability to make sound decisions.  That trust involves risk.  Yes, you may be capable of driving but are you mature enough to handle the responsibility of making the right choice while the keys are in your possession.  The same applies to Bynum and the keys we have given him to drive the entire city.  It is a lot of power for a young man.  Will he clash with Coach Collins and play his prima donna card?  I am sure he is quite aware of the chips he holds.  Will he be an example for his teammates as a player who, at 24 years old, is actually an established veteran, with championship experience?  He has the power to come in and lead a relatively inexperienced playoff team and show them what it takes to win a championship.  Will he take advantage of that or will we be stuck with the sequel to the infamous “Practice” speech given by one immature Allen Iverson?  We will soon find out if we can trust Bynum with the keys.  As a matter of fact, we have one year to let him test drive the city.  I’ll tell you one thing, if he can bring that type of excitement and an NBA championship back to the city of Philadelphia, some will say not only can he have the keys but if he wants, he can change the locks. 

 

Dante “TheDarkKnight” Johnson of “Damit, Let’s Talk”, for War Room Sports

 

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THE UNIQUE GREATNESS OF BASEBALL

Thursday, October 11th, 2012

by Gus Griffin

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Of all team sports, none is even close to being as unique as baseball.  Football, Basketball, Soccer, and Hockey all have clocks which can save you or hurt you.  Not in baseball.  You have to get 27 outs to win.  In the others, the offense initiates all of the action.  Not baseball.  With the exception of a daring runner, nothing happens until the pitcher/defense throws the ball.  In the others, there really is no structural home field advnatage.  There is in baseball.  Home team get the last at bat.  All of these factors were in play yesterday in the MLB playoffs. What great games!

 

Gus Griffin, for War Room Sports

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The American League’s All-Time Franchise Players

Wednesday, October 10th, 2012

by LeRoy McConnell III

 

 

 

 

 

There are 14 American League Baseball teams across country.  Each team has at least one significant individual that is the consummate ballplayer who represents everything the franchise is about.  As we take a look at each team, which ballplayer shows to be the most influential player to have donned a uniform for that franchise?  Some teams will have an obvious pick chosen to represent their team.  What about the teams that were successful in multiple eras?  We can only choose one player for each team that deserves the title “Mr. Baseball”.

American League East

 

Mr. Baltimore Oriole is  Frank Robinson

This selection is not as easy as it sounds when you have the likes of Eddie Murray, Jim Palmer, Cal Ripken Jr. and Brooks Robinson.  I know how much of darlings Cal Ripken Jr. and Brooks Robinson are, but Frank Robinson is  Mr. Baltimore Oriole.  The 1966 MVP, Triple Crown winner, and 2-time World Series champion (’66,’70).  He was also the manager for 4 seasons for the Baltimore Orioles.  Robinson’s numbers as an Oriole were .300BA/882H/179HR/545RBI/.543SLG/.944OPS in 6 seasons.

 

Mr. Boston Redsox is Ted Williams

With the prosperous history of the Boston Red Sox, the franchise had a wealth of talent that come to mind such    as Wade Boggs, Roger Clemens,  Jimmie Fox, Pedro Martinez, and Carl Yastrzemski.  To me, Mr. Boston Redsox has to be “Teddy Ballgame”.  Though he was a difficult soul to love in his playing days in Boston,  it’s  impossible to leave out the last man to hit .406, twice a triple crown winner, and twice MVP of the league.  Ted Williams’ numbers as a Red Sox were .344BA/2654H/521HR/1839RBI/.639SLG/1.116OPS in 21 seasons.

 

 

Mr. New York Yankee is Derek Jeter 

The most difficult team to choose by far.  I will not include Babe Ruth because he is labeled as the first professional baseball player recognized by all.  There are plenty more Yankees such as Yogi Berra, Joe DiMaggio, Lou Gehrig, , Reggie Jackson, Mickey Mantle, and Mariano Rivera.  When it’s all said and done, number 2 is on pace to being the greatest Yankee of all-time.  He learned a lot from the Yankee tradition as he is a winner, he is the modern-day Joe DiMaggio, and he is the only Yankee to eclipse the 3000 hit list (hard to believe).  It’s amazing that he has been able to keep a squeaky clean image in the Big Apple.   A role model for all.  Mr. New York Yankees belongs to Derek Jeter.  Jeter’s numbers as a Yankees so far are .313BA/3265H/.382OBP/.831OPS/347SB

 

Mr. Tampa Bay Ray is Carl Crawford 

  Is it possible that a team that hasn’t been in existence 15 years have a Mr. Tampa Bay Ray?  The Rays have only been relevant the last four years and maybe it’s because of Evan Longoria and David Price.  I don’t think either one has enough skins on the wall to warrant the title as of yet.  There is one man who does represent the standard as he leads the franchise in hits, runs, and stolen bases.  Mr. Tampa Bay Ray is Carl Crawford.  Crawford’s numbers as a Tampa Bay Ray were 296BA/1480H/103 3B/432SB in 9 seasons.

 

Mr. Toronto Blue Jay is Dave Stieb 

Off the top of my head it probably should be Joe Carter because of his heroics in the 1993 World Series when he hit a walk-off, 3 run homer against the Phillies’ Mitch Williams, to end the series.  What about other players such as Roberto Alomar, George Bell, Carlos Delgado, Roy Halladay, and Jimmy Key.  I believe Mr. Toronto Blue Jay goes to Dave Stieb, by a small margin over Roy Halladay.  As a Blue Jay, Dave Stieb won 175G/30SHO/103CG/3.44ERA/1658SO in 16 seasons.

 

 

American League Central

 

  Mr. Chicago White Sox is Frank Thomas

  I can do a list of White Sox players but none would be worthier than the “Big Hurt”.  Mr. Chicago White Sox is Frank Thomas.   Frank Thomas burst onto the scene putting up Hall of Fame numbers, standing at 6’5 280lbs, an intimidating force but really the opposite.  Other White Sox in consideration were Luke Appling, Paul Konerko, and Ted Lyons.  Frank Thomas’ numbers as a White Sox were .307BA/2136H/448HR/1465RBI/1466BB/.427OBP/.568SLG/.995OPS

 

 

Mr. Cleveland Indian is Bob Feller 

If we were speaking modern-day only, then Jim Thome would win my vote because he is truly the most popular Indian alive but there is a war hero the city of Cleveland loves a little bit more.  Mr. Cleveland Indian is Bob Feller.  He was a 20 game winner in his teenage years, the hardest throwing pitcher before we ever heard the name Nolan Ryan.  He remains the Indians’ all-time leader in shutouts and strikeouts.  Other considerations were Albert Belle, Tris Speaker and Jim Thome.  As an Indian, Bob Feller won 266G/44SHO/279CG/3.25ERA/2581SO in 18 seasons.  Feller missed 3 prime season due to war.

 

  Mr. Detroit Tiger is Ty Cobb 

  Numbers never lie!  Have you ever heard of a major league hitter knocking in 1805 rbi for a franchise by only hitting 111 home runs?  Who says you have to be a power hitter?  It does help to have 3900 hits and a lifetime batting average of .368 as a Detroit Tiger.  Mr. Detroit Tiger goes to Tyrus Cobb.  I wonder if the Detroit Tigers franchise is the only organization with two members with at least 3000 hits with one team.  The other man is Al Kaline.  Hank Greenberg is not to shabby himself!  Ty also scored over 2088 R/1148BB/869SB/.434OBP/.516SLG/.945OPS in 22 seasons with Detroit.

 

Mr. Kansas City Royal is George Brett

One name and one name only.  George Brett is Mr. Kansas City Royal.  20 years in a Royals uniform, the ultimate professional who did nothing but bring respectability to the Royals organization.  When he retired, the Royals organization simply died.  In 1980, Brett made a run at .400 batting .390.  He is the only major league player to win a batting title in three different decades.  Who is going to tell George Brett he isn’t Mr. Royal?  Have you seen his reaction during the pine tar incident!  Honorable mention belongs to Hal McCrae and Frank White.  George Brett’s numbers as a Royal were .305BA/3154H/317HR/1591RBI/.369OBP/.487SLG/.857OPS in 20 seasons in Kansas City.

 

  Mr. Minnesota Twin is Kirby Puckett 

  A short, chubby man with a very large stick comes to mind.  This individual was the heart and soul of the only two World Series championships in team history.  Did I say he was short?  He made some incredible plays with the bat and the glove.  Standing at 5’8″, this individual definitely played bigger than anyone in his era.  Mr. Minnesota Twin goes to Kirby Puckett.  Had my eye on Bert Blyleven, Rod Carew, Kent Hrbek, Harmon Killebrew, and Tony Oliva.  Kirby Puckett’s numbers as a Twin were .318BA/2304H/.360OBP/.477SLG/.837OPS in 12 seasons in Minnesota.  Kirby’s career was cut short due to glaucoma.  Several surgeries occurred but vision was never restored.

 

American League West

 

Mr. Los Angeles Angel is Nolan Ryan

One of the biggest mistakes in the Angels history was letting this man become a free agent.  All he did in an Angels uniform was strike people out.  Hint, hint!  Mr. Los Angeles Angel goes to Nolan Ryan.  Someone explain to me how a dominant pitcher who strikes out 383 batters and finishes second in the Cy Young race was allowed to leave.  Other considerations were Garrett Anderson, Rod Carew, Chuck Finley, and Tim Salmon.  Nolan Ryan won 138W/156CG/40SHO/3.07ERA/2416SO/1.294WHIP in 8 seasons as an Angels.

 

  Mr. Oakland A’s is Rickey Henderson 

   Oakland A’s has had a substantial amount of superstars from the likes of Vida Blue, Jose Canseco, Dennis Eckersley, Jim “Catfish” Hunter, Reggie Jackson, Mark McGwire, and Dave Stewart.  There was a guy who named himself “The Greatest”!  Mr. Oakland A’s goes to Rickey Henderson, who without a doubt believes he is “The Greatest”!  I can’t think of another ballplayer that beats to a crazy drum like Henderson.  He will find a way to get on base, swipe second to get in scoring position, and cross home plate to add to his run total.  He was one of the most individual stat-counting ballplayers the game has ever seen.  I guess we must take into account that he may have known what he was talking about.  I guess!  Rickey Henderson’s numbers as an Oakland A’s were.288BA/1768H/1227BB/1270R/867SB/.409OBP/.839OPS in 14 seasons.

 

Mr. Seattle Mariner is Edgar Martinez

The Seattle Mariners hit the jackpot twice raising two teenage ball players into perennial superstars.  Unfortunately they couldn’t keep either one in a Mariners uniform.  The stories of Alex Rodriguez and Ken Griffey Jr. speak for themselves.  Both players were bigwigs in their time in Seattle.  No one will ever match the human highlights Griffey displayed running down fly balls and that sweet swing…priceless.  A-Rod, innocent at the time, putting up numbers at the shortstop position that no one in history before or since has done.  Two beloved players but not the most important Mariners.  First of all, this individual’s bat was just as important as those superstars mentioned, and unlike them, he never chased the mighty dollar of free agency.  Mr. Seattle Mariner is Edgar Martinez.  Other considerations are Jay Buhner, Randy Johnson, and Ichiro Suzuki.  Edgar Martinez’ numbers were.318BA/2247H/309HR/1261RBI/.418OBP/.515SLG/.933OPS in 18 seasons.

 

  Mr. Texas Ranger is Nolan Ryan

  If Chuck Norris a.k.a “Walker Texas Ranger”  had any say in the voting he would choose himself as Mr. Texas Ranger.  Ivan “Pudge” Rodriguez was the heartbeat for the Texas Rangers for 13 years and is still a fan favorite.  Michael Young was handed the torch when “Pudge” left Texas and has blossomed into the captain of the team.  However, once again Mr. Texas Ranger without saying is Nolan Ryan.  Though he only played 5 seasons in a Ranger uniform, he was known for his milestones.  In a Ranger uniform he won his 300th game, he threw his 5000th strikeout, and he pitched his sixth and seventh no-hitters.  Nolan Ryan is Mr. Texas Ranger because he saved a franchise that was in bankruptcy.  Since he took over management and now part-owner, the Texas Rangers have been part of the last two World Series (2010,2011) and currently one of the best teams in the Majors.  Their farm system is among the best in baseball, all because of Mr. Texas Rangers Nolan Ryan.  Other considerations were Juan Gonzalez, Josh Hamilton, Charlie Hough, and Rafeal Palmeiro.

 

LeRoy McConnell III of “A Fan’s Point of View”, for War Room Sports

 

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Steve Sabol: Game Changer (1942 – 2012)

Wednesday, September 19th, 2012

by Devin McMillan

 

 

 

 

 

 

Yesterday, the sports world (the world of NFL football in particular) lost a legend.  Steve Sabol, one half of the father-son tandem that revolutionized sports broadcasting with the way they shot and chronicled the history of the National Football League, lost his battle with Brain Cancer at the age of 69.  Diagnosed with a brain tumor in March 2011, Mr. Sabol was fortunate enough to be around to induct his father and NFL Films founder Ed Sabol into the Pro Football Hall of Fame last year.

Steve Sabol (standing) with father Ed Sabol (sitting) at Ed’s Pro Football Hall of Fame Induction in 2011

 The charismatic president of NFL Films played many different roles within the company.  Steve Sabol started out as a cinematographer and went on to win 35 Emmys in that particular discipline, as well as in writing, producing, directing, and editing.  He took the reins of his father’s brainchild and further changed the way we watch football, bringing us closer to the players, coaches, officials, and the game in general.  NFL Films immortalized and humanized the game and its most prominent figures all at the same time.

On behalf of the entire staff here at War Room Sports, I’d like to send condolences to the Sabol family and I’d also like to say “thank you”.  Steve Sabol will be sorely missed; however his contributions to the game will live on forever.

 

 

Devin McMillan of “The War Room”, for War Room Sports

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The National League’s All-Time Franchise Players

Friday, September 14th, 2012

By LeRoy McConnell III

 

 

 

 

 

 

There are 16 National League Baseball teams across the country.  Each team has at least one significant individual that is the consummate ball player, who represent everything the franchise is about.  As we take a look at each team, which ball player shows to be the most influential player to have donned a uniform for that franchise?  Some teams will have an obvious choice to represent their team.  What about the teams that were successful in multiple eras?  We can only choose one player for each team that deserves the title “Mr. Baseball”.

National League East

Mr. Atlanta Brave is Henry “Hank” Aaron 

The Braves franchise could be considered the most underrated organization in the majors as they have produced some legendary ball players from multiple eras.  Similar to the Yankees’ franchise, there are plenty of deserving individuals who could wear the title.  Mr. Atlanta Brave is Henry “Hank” Aaron.  It’s obvious that Hank Aaron is the most deserving; the way he played the game, the threats he faced when he approached Babe Ruth’s home run record, etc.  He is known as a class act, though still a little underappreciated.  Let the debate begin.  It’s a given that Hank is the first choice but you couldn’t go wrong with the likes of Tom Glavine, Chipper Jones, Greg Maddux, Eddie Matthews, John Smoltz, and Warren Spahn.  Hank Aaron’s numbers were .305BA/3600H/733HR/2202RBI/2107R/.377OPB/.567SLG/.944OPS in 21 years as an Atlanta Brave.

 

 

  Mr. Philadelphia Philly is Michael Jack Schmidt 

You know how special you must be to be loved in Philly?  Mike Schmidt knows.  He knows       very well as he spent 18 seasons protecting the left side of the diamond.  Schmidt was the greatest all-around third basemen in major league history.  It helps being the MVP of the 1980 World Series.  Mr. Philadelphia Philly is Michael Jack Schmidt.  The 3-time MVP will forever have a place in the Phillies’ hearts.  “The City of Brotherly Love” also loves Steve Carlton, Ryan Howard, Pete Rose, and Robin Roberts.  Mike Schmidt’s numbers were .267BA/548HR/1595RBI/1506R/1507BB/527SLG/380OBS/908OPS in 18 seasons with the Phillies.

 

Mr. Washington National/Montreal Expo is Tim Raines 

No one on the Washington Nationals is worthy of being on the list.  However they do have potential stars in Stephen Strasburg and young phenom Bryce Harper.  To be continued!  Before there was a Washington National, it was all about the Montreal Expos, whose franchise was snakebitten because they couldn’t keep their players.  First of all, this individual needs to be in the Baseball Hall of Fame.  This man started things off at the top of the order for many years.  He was the National League version of Rickey Henderson.  Mr. Expos/Nationals goes to Tim Raines.  Other strong considerations were Gary Carter,  Andre Dawson, Andres Galarraga, Vladimir Guerrero, Pedro Martinez, and Larry Walker.  Tim Raines’ numbers were .301BA/1622H/793BB/947R/635SB/.391OBP/.829OPS in 13 seasons as an Expo.

 

  Mr. Miami Marlin is Luis Castillo 

The name Luis Castillo is not an every day household name.  Don’t blame me, blame the Marlins’ ownership, who are responsible for not keeping any of their superstars that came through their organization.  I won’t fault them for it.  They have won two World Series in their nineteen years of existence.  Mr. Marlin goes to Luis Castillo, who won a World Series in 2003.  Other considerations were Hanley Ramirez, Josh Beckett, Miguel Cabrera, Josh Johnson, and Cliff Floyd.  Luis Castillo’s numbers were .293BA/1273H/42TR/281SB/.370OBP/533BB in 10 seasons with the Miami Marlins.

 

Mr. New York Met is Tom Seaver 

The Mets will never reach the standard of the mighty Yankees but they had some important moments and teams such as the ’69 Miracle Mets.  Mr. New York Met is Tom Seaver.  Seaver won the Cy Young Award the same year he helped the Mets win their first World Series against the Baltimore Orioles.  Other considerations go out to Gary Carter, Dwight Gooden, Keith Hernandez, Darryl Strawberry, and David Wright.  As a New York Met, Tom Seaver won 198G/2.57ERA/171CG/44SHO/2541SO/1.076WHIP in 12 seasons.

 

 

National League Central

 

Mr. Chicago Cub is Ernie Banks

Ernie Banks is the only Major League ball player with the nickname after the team name.  He’s an ambassador for the Cubs organization and he is still a fan favorite.  His attitude is genuine which makes Ernie Banks “Mr. Cub”.  He continues to bolster an unworthy franchise.  Other considerations were Andre Dawson, Ferguson Jenkins, Ryne Sandberg, Ron Santo, Sammy Sosa, and Billy Williams.  Ernie Banks’ numbers were .274BA/2583H/512HR/1636RBI/1305R/.500SLG/.830OPS in 19 seasons.

 

Mr. Cincinnati Red is Pete Rose

Who in the world would you have picked?  Does anybody remember watching Johnny Bench’s show, “The Baseball Bunch”, that came on Saturday mornings before “This Week In Baseball”?  How about Joe Morgan and his back-to-back NL MVP’s in ’75 and ’76?  What about Frank Robinson, who was the first superstar Cincinnati ever had?  All he did was earn the Rookie of the Year award and National League MVP.  I chose “Charlie Hustle”, since he has been blackballed from baseball.  I know Pete Rose wants to be in the Baseball Hall of Fame more than anything,  but he’d do better staying out of it.  His name is more popular than anyone in the hall.  As long as he is not in, they will always be speaking of him.  Despite the controversy, Mr. Cincinnati Red is Pete Rose.  Other considerations were Eric Davis, Barry Larkin, and Tony Perez.  Pete Rose’s numbers were .307BA/3358H/1210BB/1741R/115 3B/601 2B/.379OBP/.804OPS in 19 seasons.

 

Mr. Milwaukee Brewer is Robin Yount 

This ball player was the ultimate team player, being able to excel at both centerfield and shortstop; while gaining two American League MVP awards.  For twenty years he gave his body up to put up Hall Of Fame numbers and that is why Mr. Brewer goes to Robin Yount.  Soon Ryan Braun will rival Yount as he has put up magnificent numbers since he came up in 2007.  I also like Cecil Cooper, Prince Fielder, Paul Molitor, and Ben Oglive.  Robin Yount’s numbers were .285BA/3142H/251HR/1406RBI/.430SLG.772OPS in 20 seasons.

 

Mr. Pittsburgh Pirate is  Honus Wagner 

Not to many ball players can rival the great Tyrus C0bb.  Alex Rodriguez could have been the greatest shortstop of all-time had he continued at that position.  The title will stay with Honus Wagner as he put up sizzling numbers in his time with the Bucs.  He is the greatest pure hitter Pittsburgh has ever had.  Mr. Pirate goes to Honus Wagner.  I chose him over Roberto Clemente because Wagner is the one Pirate that fans forget about.  The plane crash that involved the demise of Roberto Clemente heightens his popularity and for many, put Clemente’s popularity over Wagner.  Other choices were Barry Bonds, Roberto Clemente, Ralph Kiner, Willie Stargell, and Paul Waner.  Honus Wagner’s numbers were .328BA/2967H/639SB/232 3B/1475RBI/1521R/.394OBP/.468SLG/.862OPS in 18 seasons.

 

 Mr. St. Louis Cardinal is Stan Musial 

This star hasn’t played professional baseball since 1963, and til this day he is the most revered Cardinal in their organization.  Mr. Cardinal is Stan Musial.  Just like the Yankees, the Cardinal organization has royalty and a wealth of success both in players and World Series.  With the departure of Albert Pujols, Musial’s individual records will continue to stand.  Other strong considerations were  Ken Boyer, Lou Brock, Dizzy Dean, Bob Gibson, Rogers Hornsby, Albert Pujols, and Ozzie Smith.  Stan Musial’s numbers were .331BA/3630H/475HR/1951RBI/1949R/.417OBP/.559SLG/.976OPS in 22 seasons, all with St. Louis.

 

Mr. Houston Astros is Craig Biggio 

The last twenty years this ballplayer did all the little things that don’t show up in the box score.  He was the ultimate team player by calling games behind the plate and also playing both second base and the outfield.  If the team needed a key hit, a bunt, stolen base, or a defensive stop, he was your guy.  Mr. Houston Astros is Craig Biggio.  It is classic Biggio to get beamed by a pitch and hustle down to first base.  Being struck by a pitch was a badge of honor and to his credit, he never charged the mound.  Other strong considerations were Jeff Bagwell, Lance Berkman, Larry Dierker, Joe Morgan, Roy Oswalt, Nolan Ryan, and Mike Scott.  Craig Biggio’s numbers were .281BA/3060H/291HR/1175RBI/1844R/414SB/.363OBP in 20 seasons with Houston.

 

 

National League West

 

 Mr. Colorado Rockies is Todd Helton 

When Colorado put this individual in the lineup, he showed dividends from the get-go.  He was a back up player to Peyton Manning in college for the University of Tennessee Volunteers football program.  This ball player wisened up quickly and took his talents to play Major League Baseball for the Colorado Rockies.  Is there any other backup player in the history of sports able to pursue another sport and make over 100 million dollars?  Mr. Colorado Rockies is Todd Helton.  Other considerations were Dante Bichette, Vinny Castilla, Andres Galarraga, Matt Holliday, and Jeff Francis.  Helton’s numbers as a Rockie so far .320BA/2420H/354HR/1345RBI/570 2B/1360R/.419OBP/.545SLG/.964OPS in 16 seasons with the Rockies.

 

Mr. Arizona Diamondback is Randy Johnson

The Diamondbacks are also an expansion franchise that has been around since 1998.  It didn’t take much time for this organization to win a World Series ring as they upset the heavily favored Yankees in 2001.  Randy Johnson was the first big chip the Diamondbacks added in 1999.  He came in and turned the franchise around, bringing three consecutive Cy Young awards to the organization.  With the help of Curt Schilling, they were co-MVP’s in the 2001 World Series.  Other considerations were Luis Gonzalez, Curt Schilling, and Brandon Webb.  Mr. Diamondback goes to Randy Johnson as he made an expansion team into a winner.  Randy Johnson’s numbers were 118W/2.83ERA/38CG/14SHO/2077SO/1.068WHIP in 8 seasons with the Arizona Diamondbacks.

 

Mr. Los Angeles Dodger is Sandy Koufax

Though his career ended early because of elbow issues, can you name another pitcher to have more strikeouts than innings pitched?  Sandy Koufax is Mr. L.A. Dodger.  It is possible that he could be the best pitcher of all-time.  Since 1966, there has never been a left-handed pitcher to win 27 ball games in a season.  In a five-year span he won 3 Cy Young awards and he is second to Nolan Ryan in no-hitters with four.  One of his no-hitters was a perfect game and that describes Koufax best, a perfectionist.  Other considerations were Roy Campanella, Don Drysdale, Steve Garvey, Orel Hershiser, Tommy Lasorda, Mike Piazza, Jackie Robinson, Duke Snider, Fernando Valenzuela, and Maury Wells.  Sandy Koufax’s numbers were 165W/2.87ERA/137CG/40SHO/2396SO/1.106WHIP in 12 seasons as a Dodger. 

 

Mr. San Francisco Giant is Barry Bonds

Only in San Francisco can the great Barry Bonds walk around without the negative vibes.  Like him or not he was the most watched baseball player of our time.  Was he a train wreck?  No, but each time the bright lights were focused on him and a milestone was on the line, he delivered.  He had flair and cockiness.  Mr. Giant was once Willie Mays, now it’s Barry Bonds.  Other considerations were Will Clark, Carl Hubbell, Tim Lincecum, Juan Marichal, Willie Mays, Willie McCovey, Gaylord Perry, and Matt Williams.  Barry Bonds’ numbers were   .312BA/1951H/586HR/1440RBI/1555R/1974BB/263SB/.477OBP/.666SLG/1.143OPS in 15 seasons with the Giants.

 

Mr. San Diego Padre is Tony Gwynn   

This man could have taken his talents to the NBA.  Instead, he found himself as an every day player for the San Diego Padres’ franchise for over 20 years.  Do you believe that this man only struck out 384 times in 9288 at-bats?  He was the best pure hitter since Ted Williams, as he hit .394 in a shortened season due to the strike.  Mr.San Diego Padre goes to Tony Gwynn.  Other considerations were  Adrian Gonzalez, Trevor Hoffman, Jake Peavy, Benito Santiago, and Dave Winfield.  Tony Gwynn’s numbers were .338BA/3141H/5432B/1138RBI/1383R/.388OBP/.459SLG/ .847OPS in 20 seasons all with San Diego.

 

LeRoy McConnell III of “A Fan’s Point of View”, for War Room Sports

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The Lighter Side of Black

Friday, September 14th, 2012

By Maggie Mangiel

 

 

 

One of the most prevalent but unspoken of issues in the black community, in any part of the world, is colorsim.  Even in a day-to-day conversation, we seem unable to escape color references such as, “I’m sure you know Nikki, the tall light-skinned girl”, or, “look at that boy; he’s so dark, he is midnight blue”.  We have been demanding for years that the white community acknowledge, address, and terminate racism, but if we continue to point out the differences in our shades of blackness, how do we expect them to overlook it?  To make matters worse, some of us commit a truly horrific act.  So called “lightening creams” have created one of the most atrocious epidemics encountered by the black community since slavery; bleaching our skin in an unsuccessful attempt to conform to the “norm”.  Whose norm exactly?  In a recent article written  by a New York Times journalist on the issue; he quoted one of the men interviewed, “you have to change yourself, dilute yourself in order to fit into the Western norm and live in White America”.  So in order to succeed, one has to look the part.  This is the message some black celebrities seem to be projecting.  In 1999, North America was mesmerized and captivated as we all watched the home-run record race between Sammy Sosa and Mark McGwire play out.  I was on team Sosa and even got the jersey to prove it.  There was immense support for Sosa, not only from Chicago Cubs fans, but also from African Americans who didn’t even follow baseball.  An athletic brother with a Latin spice, can’t go wrong with that.  Then two years ago, pictures of a lighter skinned Sosa surfaced and I was wondering many things, but first was “how?”  Apparently, Sosa has undergone a skin-lighting treatment.  Well I was flabbergasted.  What would compel a successful role model to do such a thing?  He is in the spotlight; hell, he is in the record books.  His name has been immortalized.  I felt so ashamed and let down by someone I once idolized.  However, Sosa is not the first black person to do so.  Many other black celebrities, Michael Jackson not included, have been accused of doing it, from Roberta Flack, the Jacksons (Latoya and Janet), to Rihanna and Beyonce.  Many celebrities do it so they can be more acceptable to White America, therefore having more marketability, resulting in an increase in income. 

During the pre-Olympics campaign, US hurdler Lolo Jones was front and center as the face of the US Track and Field team, even though Dawn Harper, the reigning world champion in that discipline, is also an American.  But why was Harper commercially neglected in favor of a less accomplished athlete?  Was it for Ms. Jones’ closer to European features and olive skin color?  We can blame the media for favoring the lighter over the dark all we want, but the ugly truth is; it is not just White America who like it “light”.  The Black community is more than culpable.  Not long ago, HBO released a documentary about the Ali-Frazier saga.  Some of the people interviewed have admitted that one of the reasons Black America was on Ali’s side was the fact that he was the lighter complexioned fighter.  “He was prettier,” they said, and Ali himself, kept re-enforcing that notion by referring to Frazier as a “gorilla”, a “big ugly bear”, and saying things such as; “we can’t let the Asians think that brothers look like that”, even though Frazier’s physical attributes had no merit nor bearing on the sport of boxing.  I do not have to go as far back as the 1970’s to cement this fact.  In the recent history of Hollywood, Pop, and Hip-Hop cultures, the lack of women of darker complexion has been noticeable in those arenas and we would only see them in roles such  as slaves, overweight maids, prison inmates, “crack-whores”, and so on.  None of the women of darker complexion are given a chance at the glamorous roles which portray beauty.  Many rappers for example, including Kanye West, have declared that they prefer women of mixed races, hence lighter complexion as models in their videos.  Since the targeted demographic for Hip-Hop music is predominately African American, it leaves us with one conclusion; we like it “diluted”. 

Last year, a close relative of mine was gazing through my modelling portfolio and said, and I quote verbatim, “why don’t you use some lightening creams like ‘Fair and Lovely’?  Your pictures would look so much better and that would help your career.  You know magazines don’t like dark women.”  So hearing that I was wondering, were the likes of Rihanna right in choosing magazine covers and higher record sales over their own skin color?  Is bleaching the route to follow in one’s journey toward success?  Or am I being too self-righteous for thinking that what they did cannot be justified?  Should the Black youth listen to the lyrics of Vybz Kartel urging them to use the “Cake Soap”?  Is “fair” really “lovely” and should my sisters shed their skin to be considered attractive and marketable?  My answer to all of these question is a resounding N-O!.  It is time we faced this problem head on, shed the self-hatred, and say enough is enough.  I will stand up and may my sisters and brothers help me shout it to the heavens, “I’m black, I’m dark, and I’m beautiful”!

 

Maggie Mangiel, Fitness Model & Personal Trainer, for War Room Sports

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NBA Repair Kit

Wednesday, August 15th, 2012

By Brandon McConnell

In America, we have three popular professional sports which are football, basketball and baseball.  The most popular of the three without a doubt is football.  Does anyone know why?  Because in football, every team has an equal opportunity to win a championship each year.  You can’t really buy a championship like in the other two sports.

In the NBA, they have a set salary cap and after you reach that particular figure, you are charged a luxury tax.  Luxury tax is being taxed one dollar for every dollar you are over the salary cap.  For example, if the Miami Heat are 5 million dollars over the salary cap, the NBA charges them a luxury tax of 5 million.  Now, under the new CBA, teams pay an incremental tax that increases with every $5 million they go above the salary cap/tax threshold ($1.50, $1.75, $2.50, $3.25, etc.).  Teams that have been paying luxury tax for at least four out of the past five seasons have a tax that is $1 more at each increment than the increments mentioned above ($2.50, $2.75, $3.50, $4.25, etc.).  After understanding the salary cap and luxury tax, you can come to the understanding that owners with the most money have no problem going over the salary cap in order to win.

In the last 30 years, the same nine teams have won championships in the NBA.  That is the biggest difference from NFL and NBA.  Most markets feel like their team has some type of chance to win in the NFL.  Last week, Dwight Howard signed with the Los Angeles Lakers, making them a favorite again to win the championship next year.  There are only about 4 teams in the league that have a realistic chance of winning a championship next year (LA, MIA, OKC and BOS).

To increase the level of competition in the NBA, I believe there should be a hard salary cap that NO TEAM can go over.  By making each team have the same salary cap, you put all cities on the same playing field.  This would put an end to the SUPER TEAMS we have seen develop in the last 5 years due to teams not being able to pay these stars and put a supporting cast around them.  This cap would make teams like Golden State, Sacramento, and Charlotte relevant, because the stars would spread out more in order to receive a max deal.  You would still have role players taking less money to play with stars, but you wouldn’t have stars taking less money to play with other stars.

If the NBA doesn’t incorporate a hard salary cap soon, they can just get rid of fifty percent of the teams and create 14 SUPER TEAMS.  I feel like a Republican right now, getting rid of jobs.  MESSAGE!

In conclusion, if the NBA wants to keep doing what they are doing, I will be fine.  You ask me why?  I roll with the boys in PURPLE AND GOLD.

Brandon McConnell of “Respect Da Game”, for War Room Sports

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T.O………….Your Life is Calling You!

Wednesday, August 15th, 2012

By LeRoy McConnell III

Hey T.O. it’s me, your Conscience!  The Ghost of T.O. past, present, and future awaits us!  Terrell, someone asked how you were doing these days and you politely told them, “I’m in hell.”  Now how could that be?  You are T freaking O! 
Shall we stroll down memory lane?  We beat the odds getting to the NFL in the first place!  We were able to observe the legendary work ethic from the greatest wide receiver in NFL history, Jerry Rice.  We lasted 15 seasons, been one of the top receivers in the game for over a decade, and our career numbers will hold up against any receiver that has ever played in this league.  Where did we go wrong?  Why are we in such turmoil? 
_*The Ghost of T.O. Past*_
 
Let’s be quite frank Terrell; we $H*T on a lot of folks to get to this “hell” we find ourselves in.  Yes we did!  WE REALLY DID!  Since our memory is short, let us reflect on the past that may have led to our misery.  Remember when we, (I mean *you*) did all of those wonderful things to people!
Jerry Rice’s last home game as a 49er; you caught what was then an NFL record 20 receptions while Rice was on the field.  That was really the beginning of T.O. (me, me, me!).  Out with the old, in with the new, right?
How about Jeff Garcia?  You implied that he was gay in an interview!  Goodness, there was nothing I could do to stop you from opening your mouth that day.  Twenty-four hours later, you typically denied ever saying it.
Standing on the STAR in Dallas!  I was telling you “NO, NO, NO”!  You did it anyway. Genius move!  I just wish I had gotten credit for that one.  When you did it a second time I could only shake my head, but it was still genius!
When you played with Donovan McNabb (then quarterback of the Philadelphia  Eagles), he had his best years as a quarterback when he was throwing you the ball on every down.  But you defecated on him by announcing to the world that he was tired and had poor conditioning during the Superbowl.  Your criticism of Donovan ended what could have been a dynamic duo.
The Dallas Cowboys, you remember them?  It seemed to be a perfect match even though the “Glorified Gym Teacher” (Bill Parcells) used to call you “The Player” instead of your real name or nickname.  (Now that’s funny)!  I truly believe you enjoyed playing with Romo.  You even shed a tear for him when he was accused of letting Jessica Simpson wreck the team!  That all changed in the last year of your contract when you decided to rip Romo because he was secretly designing plays and allegedly holding private meetings with Jason Witten.  But Terrell, you were still the man in Dallas.  You were getting your usual share of the ball despite leading the league in drops.  Why mess with what was working?  As in years past, our antics were no longer cute and we, I mean you, were no longer pursued by elite teams.  You were only getting one year deals from Buffalo and Cincinnati.   

_*The Ghost of T.O. Present*_

Why are we “in hell”?  It has been a difficult year.  For the first time in 15 years we didn’t lace ’em up for any team in the NFL, because of an ACL tear in our knee.  What made matters worse was the fact that our injury happened right before a lockout year.   

We held a televised mini combine in October.  Not one NFL team showed up for our workout.  Let’s stay positive.  When they see the footage, word will get out that we are as healthy as ever.  Soon the phone will begin to ring.  All we have to do is be patient.

The Ghost of Present has to intervene.  Terrell, at age 38 and coming off major knee surgery, we are still a top 20 NFL receiver.   Why didn’t we get a call?  Has father time set in finally?  Is this the time NFL teams are going for a youth movement?  We can still play this game, can’t we?  T.O., is it possible that we are being “black-balled” by the league now?  I wonder if Barry Bonds has the same questions about baseball.  Has the way we treated people our whole career finally caught up with us?  I think we really left a bad taste in all of our employers’ mouths.  The NFL world revels in the fact that we have been unemployed for so long (until recently) and that our reality T.V. show has failed.  

“In hell” as you say?  Is it because we are foolishly wasting our fortune?  The media is dragging our good name in whale dung by helping these gold-digging females who demand $44,000 a month in child support…. $44,000 a month………Are you kidding me?!?!?!  Yeah, I guess you are right, we are “in hell”!  Did we learn anything by spreading our seed all over this country?  I guess one part of our body was HARD-headed!  A true friend would have advised us to get a vasectomy!  A vasectomy would have kept a lot of money in our pockets.  Paying for all these unwanted kids with these devouring lottery ticket holders who we don’t want any relationship with was stupid!  FOOL ME ONCE, SHAME ON YOU!  FOOL ME THREE TIMES, SHAME ON ME!

Why are we “in hell”?  Eighty million dollars not accounted for!  Bad investments, giving to four different charities every month (baby mamas).  I thought we had trustworthy people watching over our money!  Why weren’t we more careful about our money?  Should we have buried wads of cash in our backyard?  How many stories do we hear about dumb ass athletes who become broke five years after their career is over?  It could not possibly happen to us.  We are T freaking O right?!  

 _*The Ghost of T.O. Future.*_

We are “in hell”.  I don’t like the sound of that; it’s easy for us to give up.  We have tried twice to put an end to us in the past (despite my publicist saying we had “25 million reasons to live”).  Thank the Lord he did not take us.  Let’s look at the positives:  We bought into an arena team called the Allen Wranglers.  Our game plan was to get our legs back.  There would be game film for the NFL to see that we are ready for the upcoming season.  When the phone rings, our next employer will see how our attitude has changed.  We will be contrite, and be thankful for any opportunity that awaits us.  Seattle, HERE WE COME!!! 

There is life after football Terrell.  Believe it or not we are close to the end and even though we haven’t prepared ourselves very well, there is a bright future ahead of us.  First off, we are good looking with a million dollar smile.  We will always find a way to make money.  There will be modeling and acting opportunities.  We can host our own radio or television show.  Heck if Keyshawn Johnson, Michael Irvin, or even Chris Carter can be an NFL analyst, I am sure we can. 

The most important thing is to keep our faith.  We have a lot of living to do.  We are accountable for four children that need us and as ridiculous as the child support payments are, I’m pretty sure payments will go down once we are out of the league for good.  No more pointing fingers, we are the decision maker so let us make better choices.

Football has opened up plenty of doors for us so let’s walk through them and seize new opportunities.  Remember our motto, “I Love Me Some Me”!  
So “get your popcorn ready”!
 
 
LeRoy McConnell III of “A Fan’s Point of View”, for War Room Sports

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Barry Bonds’ Top 10 Moments

Wednesday, August 15th, 2012

By LeRoy McConnell III

On July 24, Barry Bonds celebrated his 48th birthday. Major League Baseball and the San Francisco Giants should be giving Bonds their deepest gratitude.  Let’s not forget what the man did despite all of the allegations thrown his way. He was must see tv.  You didn’t have to like the guy, but when he came up to the plate, everybody watched. We had no choice, it was almost like breaking news with every at-bat. What was so certain about Barry Bonds was when he approached a milestone and the four letter network broke in to show his live at-bats, he would deliver! Far as allegations of whether or not he took PEDs it  is not up to me render a factual verdict.  In fact, how can we judge all of these successful ball players breaking these sacred records if MLB allowed it to happen?  Ever since the summer of ’98 when Mark McGwire and Sammy Sosa brought the game back to the fans, we have been treated to the best offensive explosion in the history of baseball.  Fans packed the stands and owners fattened their wallets.  Many baseball fans went for entertainment, and no one provided that diversion from life’s realities better than Barry.  Here are some of the great moments of Mr. Barry Lamar Bonds.

10. September 27th 1996, Giants vs Rockies: Barry Bonds celebrates his induction to the 40/40 club.

Only an elite specimen can hit for power and steal bases.  Barry did it 40 times (42 homers and 40 stolen bases each) in 1996, as he became the first player in the National League to do it and the second player in Major League Baseball behind Jose Canseco (1988) to reach the exclusive 40/40 club.  Since Barry reached the club, only Alex Rodriguez (1998) and Alfonso Soriano (2006) have joined.  Barry’s father almost joined the club, as he was known for his successful run at the 30/30 club.  Bobby Bonds was one home run short in 1973, as he finished the season with 39 homers and 43 stolen bases.  Barry and father Bobby Bonds hold the Major League record for attaining the 30/30 club five times each in their illustrious careers.

9. May 28, 1998 Diamondbacks vs Giants:  Buck Showalter’s Int’l Walk on Barry Bonds

 Bonds was given the night off, and the Giants found themselves down by 3 runs in the bottom of the ninth inning.  This was a night set up perfectly for Bonds, as manager Dusty Baker pulled an ace out of his hand and told Mr. Bonds to pinch-hit… Two-outs, bases loaded and down three… There was no place to put Bonds, so you had to pitch to him.  Well, manager Buck Showalter had some cards to play as well.  He saw Brent Mayne on deck, so Showalter pulled a JOKER from his hand and instructed pitcher Gregg Olson to intentionally walk Barry with the bases loaded!  The last time that happened was in 1944, when Bill Nicholson of the Chicago Cubs took four pitches with the bases loaded. It was only the sixth time in the history of the game that anyone made a move like that.  When Bonds walked, cutting the lead to 8-6, Brent Mayne lined out to end the rally, and the Diamondbacks won the game.  It’s always a gutsy move when everything goes as planned, but just imagine if Mayne would have gotten a base hit.  Bonds was the most intimidating hitter since Babe Ruth. It is unfortunate that he rarely had anybody protecting him in the line-up.

8. April 17, 2001 Dodgers vs Giants: Barry hits #500

 Could there be a better team to reach a milestone  than the arch rival Los Angeles Dodgers?  With the Dodgers holding a 2-1 lead in the bottom of the eighth inning with pitcher Terry Adams relieving,  the Giants had a man on first. Bonds was in a hitters count as Adams fired a 2-0 fastball that was crushed into McCovey Cove for a Giants 3-2 lead and the 500th career home run for Mr. Barry Lamar Bonds.

7. October 4, 2001 Giants vs Astros: “Please pitch to our daddy!

Who could possibly forget Bonds’ youngest child pleading in the stands while holding a sign reading, “PLEASE PITCH TO OUR DADDY!”  Barry was sitting at 69 home runs, one blast away from Mark McGwire’s ’98 record.  McGwire broke the single season home run record that stood by Roger Maris since 1961.  It was a record everyone thought McGwire would hold as long as Maris did.  McGwire may have held that record as Barry was getting NOTHING to hit.  In 2001, Bonds had already broken the MLB record of bases on balls (177), so he was used to taking first base.  Who in their right mind wanted to give up home run number 70?  All night, Barry saw no good pitches, as he walked three times before Astros manager Larry Dierker called the dogs off and finally let someone pitch to Bonds.  Dierker put in Wilfredo Rodriguez to pitch to Bonds in the ninth inning, and of course, the four letter network broke in to show his at-bat.  This time it felt different.  This was the time when we would see history. The game was out of reach with a score of 8-2 in  top of the ninth inning.  Barry took a 1-1 pitch over the right center wall for home run #70!

6. October 5, 2001 LA Dodgers vs Giants: Barry slams numbers 71 and 72!

We already discussed the LA & SF rivalry.  Barry was at home and in front of his beloved fans with meatball pitcher Chan Ho Park at the mound.  Barry didn’t waste anytime as he scorched his record-breaking 71st home run over right center wall and got some more home cooking in the third inning by slamming number 72 over center field wall.  It was a great love affair that evening, but the Dodgers spoiled the day with an 11-10 victory.  Two days later, he hit his 73rd home run of the season off of Dennis Springer, and as of now, Barry still remains the single season home run king.  In that magical year, he also drew 177 walks, had a .515 on-average, and he also set a Major League record with a slugging percentage of .863.

 

 

 

 

5. June 24, 2003 LA Dodgers vs Giants:  Not only does Barry own LA, he steals from them too!

We thought the 40/40 club was elite.  What about the 500 home runs and 500 stolen bases club?  Like Bonds or not, this elite club is ridiculous.  Barry was the only Major League player in history to reach 400/400 in 1998. Who in the world is ever going to reach the 500/500 club?  Of course he stole #500 against the Dodgers in the bottom of the eleventh inning in a 2-2 tie.  Moments later Benito Santiago singled him home for a Giants victory.  It is 2012, and there are only 7 players in the MLB history to obtain 300 homers and 300 stolen bases.  Only Barry Bonds has eclipsed both 400 and 500 homers/ 500 stolen bases.

Home run number 660 is probably more meaningful than hitting 714, 755, or even 762.  Barry tied the “Say Hey Kid” Willie Mays in home runs on April 12, 2004.  He reached the milestone in San Francisco as Matt Kinney, of the Milwaukee Brewers, watched Barry connect on a 3-1 pitch that sent another souvenir into McCovey Cove.  The next day, Ben Ford became the next victim to Barry, as Bonds delivered #661 into McCovey Cove.  After the game, Barry was interviewed by Barry M. Bloom and John Schlegel of  MLB.com and  stated:

“I just feel like right now I completed our family circle,” Bonds said. “Willie took my dad under his wing when he first came up and taught my dad a lot about baseball and became a real close friend of my father’s.”

“It’s my dad in right field, Willie in center field and I get to be in left field. There’s just no greater feeling than completing the circle of my family.”

3. 2004 The season continued!  Barry’s greatest season.

Not only did Mr. Bonds pass his godfather on the home run list in 2004, but he also led the National League in hitting with a .362 batting average.  This was the second batting title he won in three years (2002 .370).  He once again broke his own Major League record in bases on balls. Bonds walked so much that he passed Rickey Henderson’s record of 2190 career walks.  Barry’s total career walks is an astounding 2,558.  He slugged .812, which was fourth-highest of all time (he holds the MLB record .863), and broke his on-base percentage record with a .609 percentage.  These numbers are cartoonish!  How can anyone play this game and be on base 60% of the time?  The only active player to even come close to what Barry achieved is Jason Giambi at .477 in 2001. With the season Bonds had in 2004, you could have guessed another MVP award was coming his way, in fact it would be his fourth consecutive MVP award and his seventh overall.  No other major league player has more than three.  On September 17, the spotlight was on Barry Bonds again, in San Francisco looking for that celebrated 700th home run.  You know who decided to show it live, as they have with all of his milestones (ESPN).  Would Jake Peavy of the San Diego Padres, dare to throw that money ball?  I am sure Peavy had no intentions of backing down.  This is the Major Leagues, and his job is to get batters out.  The end result? You guessed it… Home run #700.  Barry has put his name in high society now, one of three men to ever hit 700 home runs.

2. May 28, 2006 Rockies vs. Giants: Poor Byung-Hyun Kim, does #715 ring a bell?

Babe Ruth’s name was everything in baseball, he could do no wrong, he was the standard, the man, and everybody looked up too him.   He is still one of the most recognizable athletes in American history.  At one point, Babe had every meaningful record.  Ruth’s last ball game was in 1935, and to this day, people talk of him as if they saw him play.  On May 28, 2006, Barry was on another mission, and on that Saturday afternoon, Mr. Bonds faced Colorado Rockies pitcher Byung-Hyun Kim, who owned Bonds.  Going into that at-bat, Barry never got a hit off Kim. He was 0-9 with five walks, and struck out once.  Kim threw the first pitch to Barry and well… Take a look for yourself.
Bonds #715!

1. August 7, 2007 Nationals vs Giants: Move over Mr. Henry Aaron. There is a new Home Run King.  Bonds, Barry Bonds!

With all the reality television shows out there today, not one could measure up to the daily saga of Barry Bonds.  Since he hit his 500th home run,  media from everywhere followed his whereabouts and watched his every move.  No one thrived under the scrutiny better than Barry as he took every punch and performed.  Leading up to breaking Hank Aaron’s all-time home run record, there were multiple reports of Barry using PEDs and how he was linked to BALCO.  His name kept surfacing, and his long-time pal Greg Anderson would sit in jail because he refused to testify against Barry.  That’s a helluva friend!  With all this going on, there was another highlight at Pac-Bell Park.  The four letter network broke in once more to let all of America see history.  It was again must see tv.  Washington Nationals’ Mike Bacsik was the next victim in line to face the future Home Run King.  If anybody knew about the meaning of 755, it would be Bacsik, as his dad pitched to Hank Aaron when he was sitting on number 755.  Luckily, Senior only gave up a meaningless single, and if you look at Aaron’s home run totals, he never hit another homer.  This was Junior’s chance to make history, and he did just that.  Mike Bacsik had a 3-2 count on Barry Bonds.  The next pitch was a foul ball.  Finally on the seventh pitch of the at-bat, Bonds takes his usual patented swing, smacks the ball and stands at the plate with his hands raised toward the sky.  He did it… Home run #756!

Baseball is all about stats and its unfortunate that the San Francisco Giants didn’t give their superstar one more year.  Barry had only 65 more hits to reach 3000, 38 more homers for a total of 800, four more RBI to reach 2000 and 69 more runs to pass Rickey Henderson on the all-time runs scored list.

A message to the all the Barry Bonds supporters and haters: I am not naive to what has transpired during Bonds’ career.  I am simply pointing out that we may never see the likes of Mr. Bonds again.  Alex Rodriguez (644) and Albert Pujols (463) may be the ones to pass Barry on the home run list.  As to Barry Bonds making the Hall of Fame, it will be decided by the Baseball Writers’ Association of America.  His relationship with the writers has been foul and with the allegations, he probably knows that the writers will be out for revenge.  Bonds decision for the Hall will come this winter.  Baseball is not holier than thou, there are scandals in every era, it’s part of the game.  You will see this winter how facetious the writers and Hall of Fame members will act toward the likes of Bonds, Roger Clemens and Sammy Sosa in efforts to keep them out of the Hall.

I mentioned earlier how important McGwire and Sosa were to bringing fans back to baseball with their epic summer of ’98.  Barry Lamar Bonds extended the excitement in baseball.  All I wanted from baseball was a reason to watch again, and Barry Bonds surely gave me plenty of entertainment.  Thank you, Barry, for what you did. I just hope there is another one of you out there one day.

LeRoy McConnell III of “A Fan’s Point of View”, for War Room Sports

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The Greatest Olympian of All Time

Thursday, August 9th, 2012

By Maggie & Paul Mangiel

With advancements in technology, science, and the popularity of the event that occurs once every four years, we find ourselves watching, cheering, and even tweeting the greatest athletes to have ever walked the face of the Earth.  So, naturally the discussions regarding the accolade, “greatest Olympian of all time” will dominate multiple households, websites, and TV screens for the next few weeks.  “Faster. Higher. Stronger” is the motto of the XXX Olympiad games and has been for the whole of the modern era; therefore, the question arises.  Who best embodies this motto?  Out of the multitudes of international heroes who have graced the world’s grandest stage with their mesmerizing and often inspiring performances, out of the many iconic symbols who history has propelled into mythical and legendary status, who amongst them best defines the realization of the Olympic dream?  Most pundits would give the honour to the great Michael Phelps with his astonishing mark of 22 Olympic medals with 18 of them being plated in gold.  Or do you believe it would be unfair to bestow such a distinction merely due to medal count, especially since it is not plausible in many Olympic sports to accumulate such a collection within one lifetime; consequently, is the only logical answer Usain Bolt?  With his outstanding ability to deliver and truly entertain the World like no other.  With mind boggling concerts of majestic sprinting every time he steps on an Olympic track?  But surely the great Jamaican cannot possibly be awarded the title for he is not even the most decorated athlete in the history of his own Olympic discipline.  Sprint legends such as Carl Lewis and Jesse Owens rival and eclipse Bolt’s championships and records total.  Both men only needed one Olympic appearance to achieve what Bolt has done in two Olympics which is amass four gold medals and two world records.  So who possibly can be credited with being the greatest Olympian?  

The answer is no one.  No individual in history can own the the right to be referred to as the greatest Olympian, for this title is not determined by medals or records.  The requirements of this title are beyond measurement and thus cannot exist.  In the Summer of 1968 the hub of Central America, that is Mexico City, was the host site of the 19th Olympiad and it was there where Ethiopian Marathon great Mamo Walde stamped his legacy on the event with a dominant performance over the rest of the field, but the story on that race was not centred around Walde’s momentous victory, but on another man’s refusal of defeat.  John Akhwari of Tanzania made his first and most memorable Olympic appearance in the Marathon that night within the Mexican capital.  He came in as an “under dog”, a flimsy hope from a poverty ridden country, and a miracle was needed for him to medal.  Thanks to a fall which caused him to dislocate his knee and severely cut his shoulder on the 19th km of the 42km race, Akhwari certainly did not medal.  Like the rest of the field the injured athlete was completely helpless to stop the Ethiopian legend from marching towards a gold medal but hours after Walde crossed the line and the large crowd that had attended the games had vacated their seats, the tall emaciated figure of the Tanzanian appeared hobbling into the Olympic Stadium.  Bandaged and bruised with blood flowing down his arm and tears flowing down his cheeks, he crossed the white line on the track that signified he had completed the event that is arguably the greatest test of perseverance and determination the Olympics has to offer.  Finally after a few moments of confusion, one of the last few journalist who still remained approached the exhausted Olympian and asked why he had chosen not to comply with his understandably painful injury and withdrawn from the race?  The man replied, “my country did not send me 10,000 miles to start the race; my country sent me 10,000miles to finish”. 

So what makes Michael Phelps’ or Usain Bolt’s or anyone’s Olympic career any greater than that of this man?  Certainly great champions deserve the respect and reverence they receive, but the Olympics are about much more than winning.  They are a celebration of the greatest gifts and testaments that humanity has to offer.  Olympians are not pawns in a global competition for international supremacy; instead, they are microcosms of their own respective nations with each having their own unique story of struggle but more importantly with each having their own story of perseverance.  The perseverance that catapulted them to now stand in front of the world and embody all that is fair and great about mankind.  The Olympic motto, “faster, higher, stronger”  does not mean to go faster, reach higher, or be stronger than your opponent.  It simply means faster, higher, or stronger is a creed designed to be personalized and inspire all who range from the most dominant of champions to the most obscure of competitors and to believe that there is always room for improvement and advancement within your own life; so it is only logical that it is practiced by every true athlete within their life.  Due to that reasoning,  we are not to compare and contrast these athletes just as we are not to compare and contrast ourselves amongst our peers, but simply to understand the struggle and joy within our own lives and within our world.  Since no two struggles are the same; it would be foolish to critique and compare who possesses more valour.  The Olympic spirit is not meant to be judged but to be admired, and this should hold the same for the athletes.

Maggie & Paul Mangiel, for War Room Sports

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