N.Y. Mets: Zack Wheeler Poised for Breakout Season

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

SPRING TRAINING

New York Mets: A Breakout Season By Zack Wheeler Will Surely Add To Front Office Troubles.

Acquired by the Mets in exchange for Carlos Beltran midway through the 2012 season, Zack Wheeler is one of the longest tenured players on the team.  However, only now does he finally appear physically able, and thus poised to validate being selected sixth overall by the Giants in the 2009 draft, but more importantly establishing himself as a top tier National League pitcher while still in a Mets uniform.

In the meantime, Wheeler's report card is incomplete.  After making 17 starts in 2013 as a rookie, he followed up in 2014 with a career high 32 starts.  He would then unfortunately miss the entirety of both the 2015 and 2016 seasons, before returning in 2017 to make 17 starts.

Zack now faces a career defining, if not career altering season ahead.  With free agency looming it appears as if everything is indeed riding on this upcoming season's performance.

Last year, Zack Wheeler pitched 182.1 innings through 29 starts:

• 12-7 record
• 3.31 ERA and 1.124 WHiP
• 3.25 FIP
• 7.4 H/9 average
• 2.7 W/9 average
• * all career bests

However, it's Wheeler's performance over the second half of last season which best suggests he's truly onto something big.  According to Fangraphs, Zack's velocity in 2018 was back up to 2014 levels (pre-Tommy John surgery).


2018 FIRST HALF (April-June)

• 88.2 innings through 15 starts
• 2-6 record
• 4.48 ERA and 1.315 WHiP
• 84 hits; 8.5 H/9 average
• 32 walks; 3.2 W/9 average
• 86 strikeouts; 8.7 K/0 average

2018 SECOND HALF (July-Sept)

• 93.2 innings through 14 starts
• 10-1 record
• 2.22 ERA and 0.933 WHiP
• 64 hits; 6.1 H/9 average
• 23 walks; 2.2 W/9 average
• 93 strikeouts; 8.9 K/9

The second half numbers speak for themselves.  He additionally pitched seven innings or more ten times over his final 14 starts of the season, but only four times over his first 15 starts of the season.  Therefore all indications point to Wheeler being fully healthy, but more importantly thoroughly recovered.

If only things were that clear cut ...

Like Jacob deGrom, Wheeler's age entering free agency is potentially putting him at a slight disadvantage as teams no longer seem willing to commit long term to players beyond 32-years of age (or so).  Zack Wheeler turns 29-years old in May.  If he turns in the type of season I'm excitedly anticipating, the Mets will have yet another potential ace-caliber pitcher on their hands in search of representative dollar figures in which a three year offer may not suffice.

Open For Business: A Metsian Podcast Spring Training Preview With Guest Metstradamus

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

CALL OF THE PALM TREES

SPRING TRAINING SPECIAL

A METSIAN PODCAST 

with Sam, Rich, and Mike

WITH SPECIAL GUEST:

John Coppinger aka 

Metstradamus of the Sports Daily.com

93-minutes

METSIAN STUFF

The Mets Off-Season That Was ~ Brodie Van Wagenen Report Card

Free Agency Collusion Debate ~ 1981 Baseball Strike ~ Peter Ueberroth

Dave Winfield ~ Hanley Ramirez ~ Bryce Harper ~ Manny Machado

Chilli Davis/Coaching Staff ~ Mickey Callaway on the Hot Seat?

The Great Jacob deGrom Contract Dilemma

25-Man Roster ~ 40-Man Roster Depth

Devin Mesoraco ~ Juan Lagares ~ Robinson Cano ~ Tim Tebow

On Trading Prospects ~ Ty Kelly ~ Lets Go Syracuse

Are the Mets Intentionally Branding the Brooklyn Dodgers?

My Opinion on Culture Change and Making Unpopular Decisions

Rich: on Off-Season Minor League Deals

Metstradamus: on Frank Cashen and List of Core Players

N.L. East Preliminary Predictions

Mike FranSaySo ... and so much more!

ICYMI: 

Previous Podcast: 1 FEB 2019

FEATURING FORMER N.Y. METS CLOSER, 

Fan Favorite and Author of "Insight Pitch"

SKIP LOCKWOOD

1 hour; 48 minutes

#LGM

N.Y. Mets: Jacob deGrom's New Agent Repeats Old Message

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

The Truck Is Unloaded;

LET SPRING TRAINING BEGIN!

ICYMI: 

CATCHERS 

New York Mets: Jacob deGrom Contract Dilemma Shines Spotlight on Double-Agent, Brodie Van Wagenen.

Jacob deGrom wants to get paid.  And who can blame him.  On the heels of a Cy Young award winning performance, he enters 2019 arguably considered the best pitcher in baseball. 

Less than one year ago both Jacob and his former agent Brodie Van Wagenen revealed their position to the Mets regarding a contract extension in a public and rather straightforward manner.  Then something peculiar happened.  By season's end Brodie Van Wagenen was hired as general manager of the New York Mets.  So, rather than sitting side by side with Jacob at the negotiation table, Brodie now sits across from his former client's new representation.  As plot twists go, it's very likely BVW knows exactly what it will take to satiate Camp deGrom.  Only now he gets paid to negotiate what's in the best interest of the Mets checkbook.  That means taking into consideration that Jacob turns 31-years old this summer, and that he is still two years away from free agent eligibility.  Technically, the Mets needn't do a thing ... yet.

Now word comes down that Jacob's representatives have placed an opening day deadline on contract negotiations.  Brodie Van Wagenen says this is a mutual agreement, as neither party wants contract issues becoming a distraction during the regular season.  And there you have it, folks: two versions to the story.  Somewhere in the middle likely lies the truth.

If I were GM ... I'd offer to tear up Jacob's present settlement in return for four years at premium dollar, with a club option for a fifth year.  As a fan, this is a conflicting circumstance; he's an all-time Mets great, and deserves better.  But business is business, and I prefer the Mets remain non-committal beyond his 34th birthday.  That said, it's logical to assume that Camp deGrom is seeking longer term security.

I'd caution the Mets not to budge.

N.Y. Mets: Hello Pitchers and Catchers

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

The Truck is Unloaded;

LET SPRING TRAINING BEGIN!

PITCHERS and CATCHERS

New York Mets: Talk About an Off-Season of Upheaval ... Brodie Van Wagenen Sends Tremors Throughout Flushing.

Since being named general manager just three months ago Brodie Van Wagenen has been busy shaking, rattling, and rolling, all the while stressing winning, winning now, winning for years to come, and winning deep into the future.

That's great!  His positive energy is undeniable.  But I still have my reservations.  Because what BVW does not discuss is the other side of the proverbial coin: Mets ownership is still in debt.  As such, their finances will continue playing a prohibitive role in club operations for another two years.  Only then, by 2021, will they will be free of all debt stemming from the Madoff implosion, the aftermath, and recovery, and finally regain the financial flexibility fans are clamoring for.  I've cited in previous posts easily searched media articles/reports and links supporting this claim.  I merely bring this up for sake of injecting needed context into the conversation, nothing more.

Otherwise, as a fan who preaches success starts at the top I'm quite pleased with the sweeping changes enacted throughout the front office, scouting and development departments, and coaching staff.  I'd also be a hypocrite if I say I do not agree with BVW's plan to fortify the entire 40-man roster.  There's a very noticeable redundancy at play, with an aim to hedge against injury - something the Mets know much about.  There's also no denying that whichever potential mix of players wind up comprising this year's opening day 25-man roster, it will be an improved version over last year.

Some of BVW's transactions have been popular, others not so much.  Some acquisitions have come at the expense of several well touted, albeit low level minor league prospects.  I had a particular liking for Justin Dunn and Ross Adolf.  However, how all of this works out remains to been seen.  The Mets have won off-season's in the past.  But no team gets parades down the Canyon of Heroes for dominating the winter tabloids.

Catchers: The Position is Improved With An Agreeable Short-Term Solution.

I'm still a little dismayed over the non- acquisition of J.T. Realmuto, more so now that he's a member of the Phillies, and considering the price Philadelphia paid to acquire him.  It looks as if the Miami Marlins overplayed their hand.  However, the problem is wholly mine, for if there were one player I really wanted BVW to get in a Mets uniform this off-season, it was him.

Perchance to dream ...

Instead, the Mets enter the season with free agent catcher Wilson "the Buffalo" Ramos.  He is signed to a favorable two-year deal, which leaves only his day to day availability in question.  Wilson is averaging 108 games played over his last four season, but only 92 games over his last eight full seasons.  Health concerns aside he wields a very capable bat, able to hit for both average and power, and should provide solid protection for the middle of the line-up.  He's equally adept behind the plate, having already demonstrated himself to be a good receiver behind the plate, while sporting a .993 fielding average, and an above league average in caught stealing.

However, the re-signing of Devin Mesoraco (to a minor league contract) may prove most valuable of all.  Because although retained and signed, the future of Travis d'Arnaud in a Mets uniform remains very much in doubt.  To a far greater extent than Ramos, there is little debating that d'Arnaud's worse ability has been his unavailability.  He'll need to stay healthy for a complete season, be it in Flushing or Syracuse, before shaking the growing general perception of him.  In the meantime, Mesoraco enters camp as a non-roster invitee.  However, he has already proven to Mets fans that he is a very capable receiver behind the plate.  I'd be more than agreeable with Devin backing up Wilson Ramos on a full time basis.  Travis d'Arnaud ... not so much.


Next up: Pitchers.

Serie del Caribe Championship Game: Panama vs. Cuba

2018 ~ 2019

ROD CAREW STADIUM
Panama City, Panama

SERIE del CARIBE 

CHAMPIONSHIP GAME

CUBA

vs.

PANAMA

Round Robin Standings:

1. Panama                      3-1
2. Dominican Republic   3-1
3. Cuba                          2-2
4. Mexico                       2-2
5. Venezuela                  2-2
6. Puerto Rico                0-4

Felicidades a Panama ...

Panama, a charter member of the original (1949-1960) Caribbean Confederation of Professional Baseball, on Sunday will host their first Serie Del Caribe championship in 59 years.  Los Torros de Herrera - first time champions of the Panamanian Professional Baseball League - will likewise bid to become the country's first Caribbean champion since Panama's 1950 title culmination at San Juan, Puerto Rico.

Panama was already on schedule for inclusion as an invited guest in next year's Serie del Caribe.  However, ongoing political turmoil and a sudden outbreak of violence in Venezuela hastened Panama's invitation when the Confederation for a second straight year was forced to retreat from the city of Barquisimeto.  Faced with the cancellation of the Serie del Caribe itself, the Confederation and Panama were able to facilitate a last minute resolution.

Panama, Cuba, Puerto Rico, and Venezuela, are charter members of the original Confederation formed in 1949, which continued through the 1960 season.  After which, the Confederation ceased operations when baseball in Cuba became nationalized as part of Fidel Castro's revolution.

Panama's former professional baseball league was founded in 1946, then folded in 1972.  Today's Panamanian Professional Baseball League (PROBEIS) was founded in 2001, but was again suspended shortly thereafter.  Not until 2011 did the four team circuit stabilize and embark on continuous seasons.

The Caribbean Confederation was reformed in 1970 with original members Puerto Rico and Venezuela joined by Dominican Republic.  Mexico joined in 1971 to round out the present day four nation membership.

Like Panama, Cuba since 2014 participates as an invited guest.  In 1949, they hosted and won the first ever Serie del Caribe, and went on to win six more - including five in a row - before ceasing professional operations after the 1960 season.  In only their second season of modern participation, Cuba captured the 2014-2015 Serie del Caribe; their eighth overall.  Cuba has won all three Serie del Caribe previously hosted by Panama.

Cuban representatives, los Lenadores de Las Tuna, are first time Serie Nacional de Cuba champions, and thus making their first ever appearance in Serie del Caribe.

FINAL

CUBA        1

PANAMA   3

Congratulations, Panama!  It's been 59-years since they last participated in the annual winter tournament.  In defeating heavily favored and fellow invitee Cuba on Sunday, los Torros de Herrera clinch Panama's second ever Serie del Caribe championship, and their first since 1950, nearly seven decades ago.

Brooklyn Nets: Look What Flatbush Did to the Denver Nuggets, Again

From the desk of:  THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH

Nets win season series; 2-0

I - BKN 112; DEN 110

WEDNESDAY

Nuggets    130

NETS       135

FINAL

Brooklyn Nets 29th Victory Surpasses Last Season's Win Total.

Last Friday evening I was listening on sports radio to N.Y. Post's Brian Lewis crediting much of the Nets success this season on their defensive prioritization.  And while Kenny Atkinson maintains a grip on the greater issues at hand, Lewis says the greater impact upon the team's overall focus is most attributable to veterans DeMarre Carroll, Ed Davis, and Jared Dudley.

Although 130 points might suggest otherwise, defense was again front and center against the Denver Nuggets Wednesday night at Barclays.  Their efforts helped Brooklyn amass a lead upwards of 20-points.  Which in turn permitted them to withstand and outlast Nikola Jokic's triple double (25 points; 10 assists; 14 rebounds) and Denver's fourth quarter surge in which they outscored the Nets by 16-points.

With Spencer Dinwiddie out, D'Angelo Russell is being afforded time to prove his fourth quarter worth.  He led all scorers with 27-points and tied for game high with 11 assists, while playing in a game-high 35-minutes.  Joe Harris (... he's so good!) backed up Russell with 17 points in 32 minutes.

The Nets featured six players overall scoring double-digits against Denver.  Off the bench, DeMarre Carroll contributed a double-double (18 points; 10 rebounds), while Shabazz Napier posted the Nets third double-double of the game with ten points and 11 assists.  Also playing off the bench, Rondae Hollis-Jefferson effectively sticks the dagger through Denver's heart with a dunk making it 133-125 with 25 seconds left.  Throughout the game, RHJ and the refs never did see eye to eye.  And after being called for a foul on what appeared to be a clean block, he sort of blew his top to earn a technical.

The victory not only snaps the Nets three game skid.  It's their 29th victory of the season, which on Feb. 6 surpasses last year's entire win total.  It also comes against the Western Conference's second ranked team.

That should send a little tremor throughout the NBA this evening.

But insofar as the message Wednesday night's victory sends: don't mistake their injuries as their weakness.  Underestimate the Brooklyn Nets at your own risk.

N.Y. Mets: Happy Birthday, Mrs. Payson

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

1976 Mets Yearbook

Happy Birthday, Mrs. Joan Whitney Payson.  Born Feb. 5, 1903, today marks the 116th year since she joined us, and 43-years since her passing.  She was 72-years old.  A minority shareholder of the New York Giants, she voted against moving the club to San Francisco, and even tried buying them outright to no avail.  She henceforth stood front and center in the Continental League's bid to compete against the American and National leagues.  When major league baseball acquiesced to expansion, she founded the New York Metropolitan Baseball Club.  I appeal to the present day owner of the Mets: please commission a statue in recognition of the organization's matriarch.  The honor is terribly long overdue.  Before anyone else, a statue memorializing Joan Whitney Payson must absolutely stand first.

Winter League Baseball: Serie del Caribe 2018-2019 Preview

2018~2019

61st EDITION

With political turmoil raging throughout Venezuela, for a second straight year the Caribbean Confederation of Professional Baseball was left with no choice but to withdraw out of the city of Barquisimeto.  But whereas the decision to relocate last year's tourney was made in mid-summer,  thus facilitating a smooth transition to Jalisco, Mexico, this year's sudden outbreak of violence left little time for relocating a complex multinational event of this kind.  As such, the 61st edition of Serie del Caribe itself faced outright cancellation.  It would have marked the first tournament postponement since 1981, not coincidentally caused by the Venezuelan league players' strike.

Last year marked Mexico's second straight season as host nation.  As a result, they expressed a reluctance to host a third straight tournament.  Meanwhile, Puerto Rico is still beset with post Hurricane Maria recovery, and is in no position to host.  Dominican Republic offered to host but at the participating country's expense.  Cuba since 2014 is still technically considered a guest of the Caribbean Confederation, and therefore is not yet a host consideration.

Three cheers and bienvenidos a Panama, who at the last minute step in to become this year's Most Valuable Host.  The 2018-2019 Serie del Caribe goes on as scheduled, to be played at Rod Carew Stadium in Panama City.

This marks Panama's long awaited return to Caribe play.  Along with Puerto Rico, Venezuela, and Cuba, they were charter members (1949-1960) of the original confederation, which was forced to disband upon onset of Fidel Castro's Communist revolution.  The original plan was to integrate Panama back into Caribe play by next year.  But considering the circumstances, a year earlier than anticipated suits everyone just fine.

CARIBBEAN CONFEDERATION CHARTER MEMBERS: 1949-1960

• Venezuela (0)
• Panama (1)
• Puerto Rico (4)
• Cuba (7)
• *Serie del Caribe titles

By 1959-1960, Cuba's Communist Revolution seizes control of government.  Fidel Castro nationalizes the country's baseball enterprise, and by banning professionalism transforms the game into regional divisions of strictly amateur competition.  The Serie del Caribe is suspended from 1961 through 1969 as a result.  Panama folds operations.  The circuit is reformed in 1970 with returning charter members Puerto Rico and Venezuela.  Dominican Republic joins the loop in 1970, and Mexico joins the following year.  These four member circuits now make up the present body of the Caribbean Confederation of Professional Baseball.  As a result of slow and steady thawing of decades long political tensions, the Confederation invited Cuba back in 2014 as a guest participant.

Serie del Caribe

Caribbean Confederation of Professional Baseball

CARIBBEAN CONFEDERATION REFORMED MEMBERS: 1970-present

• Dominican Republic (19)
• Puerto Rico (12)
• Mexico (9)
• Venezuela (7)

• Cuba (1) guest participant
• Panama (0) guest participant
• * Serie del Caribe titles

PANAMA (HOST)
Serie del Caribe Championships: 1950

• PROBEIS/Liga de Beisbol Profesional de Panama

LBP Champions: Torros de Herrera

• Torros defeat Aguilas Metropolitanas (3-1; best of five series) capturing club's first Panamanian League championship in only second season of existence.

• Los Torros de Herrera moved on to represent Panama in the Serie Latino Americana 2019.

CUBA
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1949; 1952; 1956-1960; 2015

• BaseballDeCuba

Serie Nacional CHAMPIONS: LENADORES de LAS TUNAS

• Club Founded: 1977
• Record: 65-45 (.591)
• 2018-2019 First Time Serie Nacional Champions/58th Edition; Defeat Leopardos de Villa Clara (four games to one).

• Cuban Baseball Federation Reveals Las Tunas final roster for Serie del Caribe

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1971; 1973; 1977; 1980; 1985; 1988; 1990-1991; 1994; 1997-1999; 2001; 2003-2004; 2007-2008; 2010; 2012.

• Liga Beisbol Profesional Republica Dominicana

LIDOM CHAMPIONS: ESTRELLAS de ORIENTALES 

• Club Founded: 1910
• Dominican League Champions: 1936
• LIDOM Champions: 1954; 1968; 2019
• Serie del Caribe Champions: none

PUERTO RICO
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1951; 1953-1955; 1972; 1974-1975; 1978; 1983; 1987; 1992-1993; 1995; 2000; 2017-2018

• Liga Beisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente

LBPRC CHAMPIONS: CANGREJEROS de SANTURCE 

• Club Founded: 1939
• LBPRC Champions: 1951; 1953; 1955; 1959; 1962; 1965; 1967; 1971; 1973; 1991; 1993; 2000; 2015-2016; 2019
• Serie del Caribe Champions: 1951; 1953; 1955; 1993; 2000

MEXICO

Serie del Caribe Champions: 1976; 1986; 1996; 2002; 2005; 2011; 2013-2014; 2016.

• Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

LMP CHAMPIONS: CHARROS de JALISCO

• Club Founded: 2014
• LMP Champions: 2019
• Serie del Caribe Champions: none

VENEZUELA
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1970; 1979; 1982; 1984; 1989; 2006; 2009

• Liga Venezulana Beisbol Profesional

Despite political and civil unrest dominating the nation's attention, the LVBP championship series  pressed on.

LVBP CHAMPIONS: LOS CARDENALES de LARA

• Club Founded: 1942
• LVBP Champions: 1991; 1998; 2000-2001
• Serie del Caribe Champions: none

ROD CAREW STADIUM

Estadio Nacional de Panama

Panama City

(Feb. 4-10)

GROUP A:

1. CUBA - Lenadores de Las Tunas
2. MEXICO - Charros de Jalisco
3. VENEZUELA - Cardenales de Lara

GROUP B:

1. PUERTO RICO - Cangrejeros de Santurce
2. DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Estrellas de Orientales
3. PANAMA - Torros de Herrera

Serie del Caribe 

Baseball Hall of Fame Participants:

Jim Bunning ~ Rod Carew ~ Orlando Cepeda ~ Roberto Alomar ~ Monte Irvin ~ Willie Mays Rickey Henderson ~ Reggie Jackson ~ Roberto Cemente ~ Tony LaRussa ~ Juan Marichal Tom Lasorda ~ Edgar Martinez ~ Pedro Martinez ~ Satchel Paige ~ Mike Piazza ~ Tony Perez ~ Frank Robinson Ivan Rodriguez ~ Mike Schmidt ~ Hoyt Wilhelm

* Caribbean Series Baseball Reference

* ESPN Deportes

* Caribbean World Series

PIGSKIN 2018: Super Bowl LIII

PIGSKIN

SUPER BOWL 
SUNDAY

RESULTS

Week One

Week Two

Week Three

Week Four

Week Five

Week Six
Week Seven
Week Eight
Week Nine
Week Ten

Week Eleven
Thanksgiving Day
Week Twelve
Week Thirteen
Week Fourteen
Week Fifteen
Week Sixteen
Week Seventeen
Wild Card Round
Divisional Round
Championship Weekend

SCOREBOARD:

Championship Weekend: 1-1

Overall Record:  99-127-11
Bagels in the Basket:  -45

**In an effort to get back into the black, I'm wagering one billion bagels!

• "I Love L.A. We Love It!" ~ Randy Newman.  For those of you who never thought the city of Los Angeles would ever return to the Super Bowl ... what can I say.  Like thieves in the night, NFL officiating rob the New Orleans Saints of a second NFC title, and an appearance in Super Bowl LIII; a non-call so egregious on so many levels, the league had no choice but to admit their mistake and bury its head in the sand.  Poor Gayle Benson, who assumed principle ownership of the Saints upon the passing of her husband, Tom Benson.  She's got Roger Goodell's cell number.  I'm sure.

• AFC Championship Game: Andy Reid catches a lot of crap for not being able to win the big one.  But he was brilliant last week, matching wits with Bill Belichick.  Both head coaches demonstrated the art of in-game adjustment.  It truly was a sight to behold.  Belichick exploited Patrick Mahomes inexperience; no more, no less.  And there was nothing Andy Reid could do about it.  But make no mistake, he coached a brilliant game against a brilliant adversary.  My only other point in regards to last week's Patriots victory over the Kansas City Chiefs: smash mouth football is not dead..!  I can't stress that enough.  As a Giants fans, it's something I incessantly harp on when blogging about Big Blue's ongoing folly.

PATRIOTS -2 1/2 (RAMS)

Saturday Line/NYP

If you wanna be the man, you gotta beat the man..!  WooOO!!  Of course I'm picking the Patriots.  Did you think otherwise?  While I'm not a Patriots fan, surely you must know by now that I'm an unrepentant Hoodie minion.  I'm eternally indebted to Bill Belichick ever since he helped the Giants win their first two Super Bowls ... WoOoo!  That's what an aging Sith curmudgeon does - we pledge allegiance to and obey our master or die.  My son holds out hope than he can one day turn me away from what he deems my sad devotion to this ancient religion called smash mouth football.

Oh, the blissful ignorance of youth ... perchance to dream.  Perhaps by 10pm Sunday evening, he will finally come to understand Baby Boomers were meant to destroy planet Earth, which includes Rams head coach Sean McVay's best laid plans. 

Born of football pedigree, McVay is representative of the new age of professional football in which we now live.  He is a 33-years young innovator; he's brilliantly bold; and takes big chances in big moments.  He brings deception, trickery, and fearlessness to the table.  He'll no doubt present problems Bill Belichick must resolve before or during Sunday's game.  The Rams are also superior to New England's last two opponents (Chargers and the Chiefs), and therefore will provide more of a challenge through four full quarters of football.  I'm sure Ndamukong Sue and L.A.'s pass rush also stand poised to cause Tom Brady and company many disruptions.

But if Coach McVay wants the ball in Jared Goff's hands for any extended length of time, the Rams will need to stop Sony Michel and the Patriots running game, not Tom Brady.  Through New England's first two playoff games, the Patriots offensive line has created more daylight than the sun.  If the Rams can not throw some shade upon the Patriots rushing attack, they're d-o-n-e!  Lest I remind everyone the Patriots held the ball for 38:20 against the Chargers, and one second shy of FORTY freaking MINUTES against the Chiefs!  W ..W ... WooOOo!  Ya can't score points WOOo! if you don't have the ball.  Said another way, it's hard playing catch up with little to no time left on the clock.  Both the Chargers and Chiefs finally exerted themselves against the Patriots in the fourth quarter.  By then however it was too late, and that's by design.  The Chargers scored 428 regular season points, for a 26.7 average per game.  Against the Patriots, LAC scored 28-points, but didn't break through with 14 points until the fourth quarter.  The high-flying Chiefs scored 565 points this season, averaging 35.3 per game.  They wound up scoring 31 against the Patriots, but lagged until they put up 14-points in the fourth quarter.  Again, ladies and gentlemen, that is by design.  Point being, the Patriots play ball control, and if the Rams can't manage two good scoring quarters against them, they're done.  That said, the Rams averaged 28-points and 35:28 time of possession through their two playoffs victories over the Cowboys and Saints.  Will that be good enough against New England?  Every coach thinks they have a good plan until forced into matching wits with Simon Bar Sinister.  WooOoo!  Bill  Belichick's holy scripture defensive game plan designed to thwart the mighty Buffalo Bills offense in Super Bowl XXV has been on display in the Football Hall of Fame at Canton since before Sean McVay was born (obvious hyperbole..).

WoOoO!

Grasshopper, beware!  McVay, this means you.  Sensei never reveals all.  Offensively, New England defeated the Kansas City Chiefs using plays straight out of Vince Lombardi's 1962 Green Bay Packers playbook.  And while I believe Andy Reid brilliantly countered Belichick, Bill still did things to Patrick Mahomes that were out of Reid's control.  Instead up beating him up, per se, the Patriots coerced and confused him.

But let's just assume the Rams (and the Patriots) do everything right, and this game boils down to a last second field goal.  Who do you trust more to put themselves in a position to kick it?

Put your faith in smash mouth, my sons.  Because there's no surer way to put a stop to all this new millennium flash, glitz and glam, than with a good slap to the face.

WOOOOooo!

FINAL

PATRIOTS  13

RAMS           3

Time of Possession
N.E.  33:10
L.A.  26:50

Total Yards:
N.E.  407
L.A.  260

Smash mouth football..!

If it wasn't for defensive coordinator Wade Phillips, the Patriots might have blown out the Rams.  Head coach Sean McVey looked like a deer in the headlights.  To say he got thoroughly out-coached is an understatement.

I hope the Giants were watching.

N.Y. Knicks: Opportunity to Move Porzingis and Hardaway is a Godsend

From the desk of:  DUTCH PANTS CAN'T JUMP

TAXI..!!!!

New York Knicks: The Two Decade Old Rebuild Continues ...

Don't get me wrong, the Knicks lose me with Jimmy Dolan Steve Mills.  He's been a constant throughout this ongoing crisis we call the Knickerbockers.  Moreover, I wouldn't trust Scott Perry to mail a letter for me, much less build a contender.  In light of the big trade, my opinion of them has not changed.

However, I'd be a hypocrite if I said I didn't agree with their decision to trade Kristaps Porzingis.  Because when the situation calls for a full blown rebuild, I firmly believe in stripping things to the bone.  That means all assets must go.  So bravo to them, because no not only do I agree with trading Kristaps, I applaud it.

I acknowledge the manner in which the game is played has changed.  Be that as it may, I never saw the use for a seven foot three-point shooter.  He doesn't rebound, nor was he going to turn around a 10-41 team by himself.  In fact, I contend freeing themselves of both Porzingis and Hardaway is a godsend.  They're what I call net asset zero salary cap suckers.  Besides, seven-footers with feet/leg issues are historically known to be NBA taboo.  So whether he wanted to be in New York or not is irrelevant to me.

Mike, you idiot!  When healthy he  ...

No.

Dallas Mavericks get:

• Kristaps Porzingis
• Tim Hardaway, Jr.
• Trey Burke
• Courtney Lee

New York Knicks get:

• DeAndre Jordan
• Wesley Matthews
• Dennis Smith, Jr.
• 2021 #1 pick
• 2023 #1 pick *top ten protected

They'll be far better served with two first round draft picks versus anything Courtney Lee or Trey Burke brought to the table.  Let's be real.  Before the trade, the Knicks were effectively void of players not named Kevin Knox worthy of retention.  But they must draft smartly.

... and there's the rub.

As I sit here watching Zion Williamson and Duke destroy St. John's, it dawns on me the only way this season's tank-a-thon truly pays off is either through pure luck, or if Commissioner Silver fills the Knicks' ping pong balls with helium.  Otherwise, amassing high drafts picks is the next best strategy.

"The person who does not select Zion Williamson at number one in the upcoming draft, will go to sleep each night embarrassed over what they passed up!" - loosely paraphrasing college basketball god Dick Vitale during Saturday's St. John's/Duke game.

With regards to rumors of Kevin Durant, Kyrie Irving, or other big name free agents coming to town, anticipate nothing.  Yes, Mills and Perry created an intriguing amount of cap space.  But you can't be disappointed with what you do not expect.  High profile players say they love playing at Madison Square Garden.  But  how many of them actually say they want to play for the Knicks?  Therefore, I'll believe it when I see it.

In the meantime, bringing in DeAndre Jordan serves as yet another slap to the face of Enes Kanter.

Taxi..!

A Most Glorious Metsian Podcast with Special Guest, Skip Lockwood

From the desk of:  HEAD-BUTTING MR. MET

One of my all-time favorite seasons!

A METSIAN PODCAST 

with SAM, RICH, and MIKE

Another SAM the Man Production;

all credit goes to our Metsian partner for putting this together.

SKIP LOCKWOOD 

RHP-New York Mets 

1975-1979

Author

Insight Pitch: My Life as a Major League Closer, Amazon

Skip Lockwood is on my list of All-Time favorite Mets relievers. #SoWhat

— B'klynTrolleyBlogger (@BTB_MikeII) April 12, 2011

Sam (the archaeologist) dug up this old Tweet of mine.  I can't be certain what I meant by that #hashtag, but I'm quite certain it was in response to #MetsTwitter.  Proof, nonetheless ... I love Skip Lockwood.  I was 12-years old during his last season with the club.  He ranks among my very select list of Mets players most responsible for igniting and fueling my passion for our Boys of Flushing during the mid to late 1970s.  It is my great privilege and honor to have spoken with Mr. Lockwood.  A thrill I will not soon forget.  #LGM

N.Y. Yankees: Hall of Fame Makes Room for Moose and Mo

From the desk of:  BLAME CARLOS MAY

The Greatest Relief Pitcher/Closer of All-Time

100%

New York Yankees 

Hall of Fame Class of 2019

Mo-Body Does It Better; Made Life Sad For The Rest.  Mo-Body Does It Half As Good As Him; Baby, Mo's The Best ...

I remember Rollie Fingers as a member of the Swingin' Oakland A's.  He and the Mets Tug McGraw are the first great relief pitchers of my childhood recollection.  I remember Mike Marshall capturing the 1974 National League Cy Young as a member of the Dodgers, after posting a 15-12 record with 21 saves, a 2.42 ERA, through 106 appearances and 208.1 innings pitched, all as a reliever.  I also recall when Sparky Lyle captured the 1977 American Cy Young as a reliever for the Yankees.  I'll never soon forget Goose Gossage's aura of intimidation; Bruce Sutter's famous splitter; or 1984 when Willie Hernandez won both the Cy Young Award and MVP with a 9-3 record, 21 saves, and a 1.92 ERA through 130.1 innings pitched for the World Champion Tigers.

Damn right Lee Smith deserves enshrinement into baseball's Hall of Fame.  He put forth at least ten dominant seasons of thirty saves or more; three times exceeded 40 saves; and led the league in saves on four occasions, with a career high 47 saves in 1991 as a member of the Cardinals.  Upon his retirement after the 1997 season, Lee Smith's 478 saves were the most all-time.

I remember when MLB amended the Save rule, spurring great debate and statistical controversy.  I have also watched relievers evolve from the Fireman into the modern day Closer.  And of course, I watched Tony LaRussa invent the one inning specialist.  Few people mention that before Dennis Eckersley the A's closer came into existence, La Russa first invented Bobby Thigpen with the Chicago White Sox.

Since the early/mid 1970's and every era since, I've seen relievers come and go.  In fact, I've seen them all.  Some relievers/firemen/closers are incredibly over rated, while some are unquestionably great.

It is with great confidence I say there was/is none better than Mariano Rivera.

None ...

In 1997, he earned 43 saves during his first full season as Yankees closer.  After missing nearly all of the 2012 season, Mariano returned at 43-years of age to record 44 saves in the final season of his illustrious 19-year career.  That's consistency.  He had 15 seasons of at least 30 saves; seven years of at least 40 saves; and two seasons of at least 50 saves.  In 2005, he recorded a career high 54 saves.  His 652 saves are most all-time.  He boasts a career 2.21 ERA and 1.00 WHiP in 1,283.1 innings pitched.

He was no single-inning matador either.  In order to be great, one needs great competition.  For better or worse, his multi-inning efforts throughout his post-season career are the stuff of legend.  But with regards to the overall nuanced art of closing out games, nothing in baseball history compares with Mo's exploits:

• 96 career playoff games; 24 appearances via seven trips to the Word Series.
• 141 innings pitched; 86 hits allowed (just two home runs); 21 walks; 110 strikeouts
• 8-1 record; 78 saves; 0.70 ERA; 0.750 WHiP.
• Just 86 hits allowed (only two home runs) through 141 innings pitched; 21 walks; 110 strikeouts

With regards to the nuanced art of closing out games, nothing in baseball history compares.

The irony is never before had the BBWAA enshrined a player into the Hall by a unanimous vote.  Some have come close.  Alas none had ever achieved the distinction of garnering 100% approval - not Babe Ruth; Ty Cobb; Cy Young; Ted Williams; Willie Mays; Hank Aaron; Greg Maddux, Ken Griffey, Jr., et al - until Mariano Rivera.  He will go down in history as the first player to ever be voted into baseball's Hall of Fame unanimously.

Dare I say he is truly one of baseball's few all-time transcendent players.

Cooperstown Sounds Moose Call, But Is Mike Mussina a True Hall of Famer?

Sometimes milestones such as 300 wins or 3,000 strikeouts need not apply.  Those are not prerequisites for election into Cooperstown.  Every player has their own story.  Each differs from player to player, but none follow the same script.  There are wunderkind members, as well as workingman members; conquerors and compilers; both majestic and modest.  They all perform in their own unique ways.

Mike Mussina was never considered one of the most dominant pitchers in baseball.  There aren't many italicized statistics on the back of his baseball card.  He never led the league in ERA; achieved 20-wins in a season only once; and recorded 200 strikeouts in a season but four times.  He never won a Cy Young Award, and his teams never won the World Series.  You might say Moose was somewhat unfortunate insofar that he pitched for the Yankees from 2001 through 2008 - the eight seasons nestled between New York's 2000 and 2009 titles.

But what he did was pitch his entire career in the highly competitive American League East and still manage a 3.68 ERA.  Very simply, Moose is one of the great craftsmen the American League has ever known.  He led the league in wins and shutouts in 1994 as an Oriole, and posted the league's best FIP during his first season with the Yankees.  But his true worth came in posting double-digit victories for 17 consecutive seasons; winning 20-games once; 19-games twice; and at least 18-victories on three other occasions.  All the while limiting himself to single-digit losses in 12 of his 18 seasons.  Mussina made 536 career starts and won 64% of them, retiring with a stellar 270-153 career record.  His control was impeccable, finishing with 2,813 strikeouts in 3,562.2 innings pitched, with a career 2.0 W/9 average.

Is he a borderline Hall of Fame pitcher?  Although I was initially conflicted, the answer is yes.  Capturing just 76.7% of the vote bears that out.  But he is Hall of Fame pitcher nonetheless.  Mike Mussina wasn't just good enough to get in, he was great enough to be voted in his first year on the ballot.

Winter League Baseball: Serie del Caribe 2018-2019 Faces Potential Cancellation

2018~2019

HOST

Barquisimeto, Venezuela

BREAKING NEWS

• ESPN Deportes ~ On potential cancellation of 2018-2019 Serie del Caribe
• MLB.com ~ Unrest in Venezuela Threatens Caribbean Series
• Sporting News ~ Political Unrest in Venezuela Puts Caribbean Series in Jeopardy

If you've been keeping up with international news, then you're probably aware Venezuela is a nation in crisis.  Amidst epic political turmoil, cities throughout the country on Wednesday erupted in demonstration.  Hundreds of arrests are being reported, while 13 known deaths have occurred in protests.

The city of Barquisimeto was due to host this year's Caribbean Series.  On Thursday, the Professional Baseball Confederation of the Caribbean issued a statement all but declaring a final resolution in light of present conditions in Venezuela, and that a definitive determination would be forthcoming within 24-hours.

An ongoing state of turmoil likewise caused the confederation to shift last year's Serie del Caribe - originally scheduled for Barquisimeto - to Jalisco, Mexico.  It marked Mexico's second straight season as host nation.  As a result, they've expressed a reluctance to host a third straight tournament.
However, last year's decision to opt out of Venezuela was made well in advance, a full seven months before the February event.  Thus affording ample time for tackling the complexities of relocation and logistical reconfiguration.  This year's opening game of the Serie del Caribe is tentatively scheduled for Feb.2, which at this point leaves little or no time for a sudden change of venues.  Moreover, Puerto Rico is still beset with post Hurricane Maria recovery, and is in no position to host.  Dominican Republic offered to host but at the participating country's expense.  Cuba since 2014 is still technically considered a guest of the Caribbean Series, and therefore is not a host consideration.

Founded in 1949, the Serie del Caribe ironically was the brainchild of Venezuelan businessmen Pablo Morales and Oscar Prieto Ortiz.  Perhaps even more ironic, the Serie del Caribe was last suspended in 1981 due to a Venezuelan League player's strike.

CONFEDERATION of the CARIBBEAN CHARTER MEMBERS: 1949-1960

• Venezuela (0)
• Panama (1)
• Puerto Rico (4)
• Cuba (7)
• *Serie del Caribe titles

By 1959-1960, Cuba's Communist Revolution seizes control of government.  Fidel Castro nationalizes the country's baseball enterprise, and by banning professionalism transforms the game into regional divisions of strictly amateur competition.  The Serie del Caribe is suspended from 1961 through 1969 as a result.  Panama folds operations.  The circuit is reformed in 1970 with lone returning members Puerto Rico and Venezuela.  Dominican Republic joins the loop in 1970, and Mexico joins the year after.  These four member circuits now make up the present Confederation of the Caribbean.  As a result of slow and steady thawing of decades long political tensions, the Confederation invited Cuba back in 2014 as a guest participant.

CONFEDERATION of the CARIBBEAN CURRENT MEMBERS: 1970-present

• Dominican Republic (19)
• Puerto Rico (12)
• Mexico (9)
• Venezuela (7)
• Cuba (1)
• * Serie del Caribe titles

VENEZUELA
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1970; 1979; 1982; 1984; 1989; 2006; 2009.

• Liga Venezulana Beisbol Profesional

Despite political and civil unrest dominating the nation's attention, the LVBP championship series  pressed on.

CHAMPIONS: LOS CARDENALES de LARA

• Founded: 1942
• LVBP Champions: 1991; 1998; 2000-2001.

CARDENALES de LARA sweep LEONES de CARACAS; 4-0
I - LAR 7; CAR 1
II - LAR 8; CAR 2
III - LAR 12; CAR 1

GAME FOUR

LARA         7
CARACAS 0

SATURDAY FINAL

MEXICO

Serie del Caribe Champions: 1976; 1986; 1996; 2002; 2005; 2011; 2013-2014; 2016.

• Liga Mexicana del Pacifico

Jalisco leads LMP Championship Series over Obregon; 3-2

I - OBR 8; JAL 3

II - JAL 6; OBR 4

III - OBR 10; JAL 9

IV - JAL 5; OBR 3
V - JAL 7; OBR 0

GAME SIX

YAQUIS de OBREGON @ CHARROS de JALISCO

MONDAY

CUBA
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1949; 1952; 1956-1960; 2015.

• BaseballDeCuba

CHAMPIONS: LENADORES de LAS TUNAS (Lumberjacks)

• Founded: 1977
• Record: 65-45 (.591)
• 2018-2019 First Time Serie Nacional Champions/58th Edition; Defeat Leopardos de Villa Clara (four games to one).

• Cuban Baseball Federation Reveals Las Tunas final roster for Serie del Caribe

DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1971; 1973; 1977; 1980; 1985; 1988; 1990-1991; 1994; 1997-1999; 2001; 2003-2004; 2007-2008; 2010; 2012.

• Liga Beisbol Profesional Republica Dominicana

CHAMPIONS: ESTRELLAS de ORIENTALES 

• Founded: 1910
• First Championship: 1936
• LIDOM Champions: 1954; 1968; 2019

LIDOM
CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES
Estrellas de Orientaled defeat Toros del Este; 5-1
I - Stars 13; Toros 1
II - Stars 6; Toros 1
III - Toros 13; Stars 2
IV - Stars 3; Toros 2
V - Stars 3; Toros 0
VI - Stars 4; Toros 0

PUERTO RICO
Serie del Caribe Champions: 1951; 1953-1955; 1972; 1974-1975; 1978; 1983; 1987; 1992-1993; 1995; 2000; 2017-2018.

• Liga Beisbol Profesional Roberto Clemente

CHAMPIONS: CANGREJEROS de SANTURCE 

• Founded: 1939
• LBPRC Champions: 1951; 1953; 1955; 1959; 1962; 1965; 1967; 1971; 1973; 1991; 1993; 2000; 2015-2016; 2019.

LBPRC

CHAMPIONSHIP SERIES

Cangrejeros de Santurce sweep Indios de Mayaguez; 4-0

I - SAN 4; MAY 0

II - SAN 7; MAY 1

III - SAN 8; MAY 3

IV - SAN 1; MAY 0

*Wikipedia/CaribbeanSeries

Brooklyn Nets Bench Brigade Turn Away Hapless Knickerbockers

From the desks of:  

DUTCH PANTS CAN'T JUMP  and  THE HOOPS OF FLATBUSH

BATTLE OF THE BOROUGHS-IV

Nets win season series 4-1

I - BKN 107; NYK 105

II - NYK 115; BKN 96

III - BKN 112; NYK 104

FRIDAY

Knicks  99

Nets    109

FINAL

Brooklyn Nets: Mounting Injuries Put Spotlight Squarely Upon D'Angelo Russell.

Make that six wins in a row, and 19 wins in their last 24 games.  The Nets are now 19-5 since snapping an eight-game losing streak back on Dec. 7, marked by noteworthy victories over Toronto, Philadelphia, Charlotte, Boston, Houston, Sacramento, and of course their crosstown rival Knickerbockers.  They've done all this while hurt.  The Nets were just 6-8 on Nov. 12 when Caris LeVert was lost to a foot injury.  After which Rondae Hollis-Jefferson, Allan Crabbe, and Jared Dudly, also went down and remained out.  Only on Friday did Jefferson finally return to the lineup against the Knicks.  However, the Nets now lose Spencer Dinwiddie - arguably on pace to win the NBA's 6th man award - sidelined a torn ligament in his thumb.  Surgery is pending.

EASTERN CONFERENCE

6th) Nets        27-23 (.540)

14th) Knicks  10-37 (.213)

As injuries mount, all eyes now turn towards D'Angelo Russell.  This is his team now, and he'll have the fourth quarter all to himself.  Although he has played himself into the All-Star conversation, there's been many games this season where in much of the final session Coach Atkinson has kept him wrapped in sweats.  It's only recently that Russell's and Dinwiddie's games have begun to mesh on the floor together.  There was clearly an initial disconnect, of which Coach says the two have learned how to play together and the results bear that out.

It's been a happy new year for D'Angelo Russell indeed, who was named NBA Player of the Week.  Through 12 games in January, he's averaging 23.1 point and 7.4 assists per game.  On Jan.14, he scored 34-points in a winning effort over Boston.  Two games later, he dropped 40-points in a win over the Magic at Orlando, then followed that up with 31-points on Jan. 21 against Sacramento.  In their lead-up to Friday's game versus the Knicks, Russell posted a double-double (25-points; 10 assists) in Wednesday's rematch against the Magic.  For the season (49 games) he is averaging 19-points and six assists per game.

Against the Knicks, however, Russell was limited to just 12-points in 24-minutes.  Joe Harris was the only other starter to score in double digits with ten points in 28-minutes.  The real story of the game, and for the matter the continuing narrative of the Nets season, is the next guy in line stepping up and contributing effective play and productive minutes.  Brooklyn featured more four scorers in double digits all off the bench.  Theo Pinson led all Nets with 19 points.  With 29-minutes in Dinwiddie's absence, Shabazz Napier was next in with 18-points.  Ed Davis played big man on campus with 17-points and a game high 16-rebounds.

Friday's 109-99 victory over the cross-river Knicks gives the Nets a 27-23 record on the season, good for sixth place, 2.5 games ahead of the Miami Heat in the Eastern Conference standings.  They also improve to 15-11 at home.  Lest we forget they started the season 3-10 at home.  They've since won  92% of their games (12-1) at Barclays Center.

And don't look now, but their season long negative point differential now reads +0.4 for the season; another benchmark; more evidence of sustained improvement.

Against the Nets, Noah Vonleh scored a double-double Friday with 22-points and 13 rebounds; Trey Burke led all scorers with 15-points off the bench.

New York Knicks: Unfortunately for Enes Kanter, this is what happens when you become enmeshed with the Bockers.

One the one hand, Enes Kanter knew he was opting into a rebuilding situation.  Therefore, part of his present calamity came by his own hand.  Money will do that.  Little did he know there would be a heavy price to pay for his (micro vs. macro) decision.  On the other hand, Friday's performance was a picture perfect demonstration of tank-a-thon in action.  This game was perfectly suited for Kanter.  Just take a look at his last three games against the Nets.  He's right to express displeasure, and for that matter demanding a trade.  A man of his talents riding the bench is hardly ideal for either party.  Kanter is actually my favorite Knick, but he obviously needs to go.  The Knicks just have no real leverage to work with, so what can they reasonably expect in return?  Where this tank-a-thon ultimately gets the Knicks, remains to be seen.  But for as long as Steve Mills remains a part of this organization's decision making process, I expect nothing good.

I'll say this much about Coach Fizdale: if the intention is indeed to tank the season, he's in the midst of masterminding something epic.  With Friday's loss, the Knicks fall to just 10-37 on the season.  They extend their losing streak to eight games, making them just 1-16 in their last 17 games.  With February just around the corner, 37 games remain in the season.