Author Archives: Mike Quilty

Mookie Betts Like You’ve Never Seen Him Before

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It’s always great to watch Mookie Betts on a nightly basis. He’s always having fun playing baseball, and it rubs off on his teammates and the fans. So it was no surprise that his annual Citi Mookie Betts Youth Baseball Clinic was based on enjoying yourself and to always have fun while playing. This year 200 kids from a wide variety of ages came to see the All-Star outfielder. The boys and girls from 1st grade up to 8th grade all got a chance to meet their hero.

MOOKIE WAS TEACHING LIKE A GM

Throughout the day the kids were rotating to different stations set up to teach the basic fundamentals of baseball. Each station had a high school or college coach set up to teach the kids hitting, catching, running and fielding ground balls. Mookie stopped by every station and interacted with each kid. Mookie gave the groups a chance to pick his brain, and of course he had to get in on the fun. Along with the different groups teaching fundamentals there were also games going on towards the end of the day. Toward the end of the day Mookie made his rounds to the mini wiffle ball games where he took over as the pitcher.

MOOKIE TAKES THE MOUND

This was by far the most exciting part for the kids. Mookie let everyone swing until they got a hit. He is a really patient man, as there were 200 kids wanting to hit a home run off of the All Star. A few of the kids managed to take him yard! Mookie continued to have a smile on his face all day, just like he does on the field.

THE CLINIC WAS A SUCCESS

From the beginning of the Mookie Betts Baseball Clinic until the end everyone who was in attendance was all smiles. Especially the man of the hour…Mookie. Throughout the day he was talking to the kids about life, baseball, happiness and positivity. He was explaining to the group that he is where he is today because he doesn’t let negativity get to him, and he always tries to maintain a happy positive attitude playing for the Red Sox. He went on to say that if you make baseball fun then you will get better results. Having a positive attitude is infectious and will make you others around you better, hinting at this years Red Sox team.

J.D. Martinez-Triple Crown Bound

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After last night’s home run J.D. Martinez has kept himself on pace for the triple crown. The All Star is leading the majors with 38 home runs and 106 RBI. For Martinez to join this very exclusive club he will need to catch his teammate Mookie Betts in batting average. Betts currently maintains control of the highest average in the league at .346. As of right now J.D. holds a .333 average, only .13 off of Betts for the league lead.

Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports

Martinez Would Put Himself Among Red Sox Legends

Only two other Red Sox players have won the triple crown. Ted Williams was one of only two players in history to win it twice. The most recent Red Sox player to achieve this accomplishment was Carl Yastrzemski in 1967. There has only been a total of 15 players to win the triple crown in MLB history, the most recent player to do so being Miguel Cabrera in 2012. This won’t come easy, but JD has the support from Cabrera himself. Cabrera recently took to his Instagram to discuss the potential of Martinez pulling such a feat off, mentioning that the two have “talked about this years ago and that JD can do it.” Even with Martinez playing so well a lot still needs to go right down the stretch.

Can Martinez Actually Pull This Off…

Photo courtesy of NBC Boston Sports

With the Red Sox having such a commanding lead in the division, it would not be a surprise to see guys getting some rest. Depending on how Alex Cora decides to walk that thin line of rest versus momentum heading down the stretch, could factor into Martinez’s chances. However, the way JD has been playing and where his numbers stand today, the slugger should have enough at bats left to hold onto the home run and RBI lead. Then there is Mookie, who is still playing at an MVP level with a slight lead in average over Martinez. Of course no one wants Betts to slow down, this team wants a championship over anything else. As for the triple crown, JD Martinez will maintain his lead in home runs and RBI, and will catch Mookie barring any unforeseen slumps.

The way Martinez study’s and prepares for games is what will land him the triple crown. There’s just something about this team that we have all felt before in years past, you can feel it. Winning the World Series is the goal, but winning the triple crown is a nice cherry on top for J.D.

Breaking: Patriots Release WR Malcolm Mitchell

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Mitchell Showed Serious Promise

The New England Patriots have released 25 year old WR Malcom Mitchell. Malcolm was drafted as a fourth round pick out of Georgia and showed some potential his rookie year. In 2016, Mitchell had 32 receptions for 401 yards and 4 touchdowns. He was also a key part of the Patriots Super Bowl Win against the Atlanta Falcons. The rookie hauled in 6 clutch catches for 70 yards. Winning a championship as a rookie, he looked like Brady’s new favorite outside weapon for the future.

Photo courtesy of USA Today Sports images

Injuries Kept Piling Up

After such a great start to his career and being a part of the biggest Super Bowl comeback in NFL history, Mitchell never had a sophomore season. The youngster played one preseason game, and spent the rest of the 2017 season on the IR due to a nagging knee injury.

The Patriots have spent the past two weeks trying to find a trade partner for the 25 year old wideout. Other teams declined, as they are concerned about his knee issues. Mitchell was attempting to come back for the 2018 season, but couldn’t get his knee right.

A Somber Conclusion

Now, teams around the league won’t have to give up any of their assets to acquire Mitchell once the release becomes official. Looking back on Mitchell’s time in New England, it’s safe to say he was nothing short of unrealized potential. At times, Mitchell showed the flashes of a future deep threat receiver. Recall his sprint to the endzone in San Francisco a few seasons ago.

We wish the best of luck to Mitchell as he strives to continue his career elsewhere. If he’s given another shot and can get healthy, he is sure to shine. Here’s to the next time we see him on the field!

Gronk Is Looking like His Old Happy Self at Camp

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Gronk Is Back and Healthy

Training camp wouldn’t be the same without Gronk, and it sure is good to see him on the practice field. Both Brady and Gronkowski decided to skip voluntary OTA’s earlier this offseason. Tom was away to spend time with his family, and maybe a little time away from the boss. Meanwhile, Gronk could’ve been away for many reasons. Retirement, as he stated after the loss to the Eagles last year, is not one of them. If my opinion matters, I think that a contract restructure could’ve been the cause for skipping OTAs. Gronk is about to make $9 million dollars this upcoming season. He could possibly want an extension or some guaranteed money up front. He is the best TE in the NFL, and arguably of all time, and he’s still playing with the best QB in the world.

Gronk Having Fun Again

Courtesy of Getty Images

Watching training camp, Gronk seems to have a little spring in his step mentally. He’s been acting like the Gronk of old. Rob Gronkowski has seemed to have done a complete 180 from a year ago at this time. He’s been actively helping the new faces, showing them the dedication it takes to play for Bill Belichick. While at the same time he’s been noticeably happier out on the field and after practice. His agent Drew Rosenhaus was spotted at camp recently, which could mean his contract situation is being taken care of. Rosenhaus is the agent of multiple Patriots, so it may have nothing to do with Gronk at all. With the expectation of the contract being done a week ago I believe it is no coincidence as to why was there.

Bill Has Done His Part

Courtesy of USA Today

Finally, Gronk comes in fully healthy, possibly another reason for him seeming so happy. He’s now able to focus on the little things not having to worry about nagging little injuries, just focusing on the grind and loving every minute of it from what I have seen. Bill Belichick has also done his part during camp. At the end of practice he switched the offense and defense for a quick scrimmage. Camp has certainly seemed a lot lighter this year. Everyone’s still working hard, but things have lightened up. With all the outside noise about this team not getting along, I believe it’s just the same old Patriots, with the same old happy Gronkowski. Come September 9th, we will be watching the same product on the field as always with many Gronk spikes.

Remembering Reggie – 25 Years Since The Loss of Reggie Lewis

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Drafted out of Northeastern

Courtesy of NBC Sports

Boston Drafts Reggie Lewis in the First Round

Reggie Lewis was picked22nd overall by the Boston Celtics in the first round of the 1987 NBA draft. His talent and work ethic displayed at Northeastern didn’t go unnoticed, even though it is a smaller college basketball program. In his rookie season, he averaged only 8.5 minutes and 4.5 PPG. With Boston’s Big 3 running the show, he would sit and watch like any other rookie and learn from the legends. Reggie’s second year was completely different. He played in 81 of 82 games, averaging 18.5 PPG and showing he could be the next great Celtic. As each year past, Lewis got better, becoming a fan favorite with his offense and defensive play. Reggie was quickly becoming a star in the NBA, which was on full display in the 90’s.

In March of the 91-92 season, Boston went up against the great Michael Jordan. Lewis was up for that challenge, famously blocking four of MJ’s shots. During that season, Lewis averaged a career high 20.8 PPG playing in all 82 games. He was the only Celtic to be represented in the All-Star game. By years end, Lewis became the only Celtic in history to have over 100 rebounds, 100 assists, 100 blocks, and 100 steals. In 1992, Lewis chosen as captain of the Celtics.

Courtesy of NBA.com

The Rise and Fall

Reggie Lewis entered the 1993 NBA playoffs against the Charlotte Hornets at home in the Boston Garden. In Game 1 of the first round, Lewis started the game shooting 7-11 and scoring 17 points until he collapsed on to the floor 13 minutes into the game. The fans waited in utter silence as Lewis eventually woke up. Unbelievably, Lewis tried to come back into the game. He played another 6 mins until the coaching staff had to get him off the floor. Those would be the last minutes he ever played in the NBA.

Reggie was taken after the game to New England Baptist Hospital to have tests done by 12 cardiologists. The Celtics called them a “dream team” of doctors. Reggie didn’t get the news he was hoping for as the doctors advised him of a heart condition that can be fatal. He was strongly advised to stop playing basketball. Reggie Lewis decided to seek a second opinion. He transferred to Brigham and women’s hospital for more testing. Dr. Gilbert Mudge disagreed with the first diagnosis Reggie received from the previous hospital, assuring the All-Star it wasn’t a heart condition and he could resume playing basketball with no limitations. Going with the second opinion, Reggie went to work on his jumper and on July 27th, 1993, Lewis collapsed to the floor and  tragically passed away two hours later in the hospital.

The Legacy

Lewis was 27 years ols when he passed. But his memory will live forever through the Reggie Lewis track and athletic center. He will never be forgotten on the court. Number 35 will always be up above as the Celtics retired his number in 1995.

Courtesy of NBC Sports

Tom Brady – The Ultimate Fighter

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Tom Brady is ready to embark on his next challenge this September. He will have to overcome many different obstacles along the way. This is nothing new to Brady though; he’s been fighting his way toward greatness his entire life and it won’t change in 2018.

FROM THE BEGINNING 

Courtesy of Sports Illustrated

His fight for football greatness began in high school, where Brady wasn’t good enough to be the starter on a winless team that had zero touchdowns. He eventually got the starting job as a junior and held it until he graduated. Brady wasn’t getting much attention from colleges during his senior year, so he made highlight tapes of himself to send to schools he wanted to attend. Tom’s tapes worked, as many different colleges around the country started showing interest. Tom decided on the University of Michigan, which again led Brady into another battle he would have to fight. Starting his college career, Tom was once again a backup for 2 years. It’s hard to believe now, but the GOAT was seventh on the Wolverines depth chart at one point. He continued his hard work, eventually moving up the depth chart-only to have to share time with Drew Henson.  Brady was still fighting for his position, leading his team to multiple comebacks, earning the nickname of the Comeback Kid along the way. He won the Orange Bowl in Tom Brady fashion, leading his team back from two 14 point deficits. Sound familiar, Patriot fans?

TOM TAKES HIS TALENTS TO THE PATS

Courtesy of the Boston Globe

After fighting his way through high school and college, Tom’s professional start would be more of the same. With his combine performance not going over well with scouts, he had to sit and wait while 198 other players were drafted ahead of him. His deeply ingrained work ethic helped him move up the Patriots depth chart from number four to Drew Bledsoe’s backup. After Mo Lewis knocked Bledsoe out, Brady’s hard work was about to pay off. He saw his opportunity and would fight harder than ever to not be a backup again. Five Super Bowls and three MVPs later, Tom Brady is now fighting against something that has never been defeated.

FATHER TIME

Brady has been beating Father Time for a few years now, winning SBs at ages 37 and 39. He was MVP of the league at 40 while breaking his own SB records. It seems to be pushing it, right? Well not for this guy. He’s always found a way to beat whatever was in front of him. Brady’s turning 41 in August. With no Julian Edelman for a month, a whole new cast of teammates, and nature doing its thing, this will be Tom’s biggest fight. I expect the same results from the man who can’t seem to lose. We have been and are watching the greatest QB and fighter the NFL has ever seen. Brady will not stop until he gets what he needs, and that’s the next ring. Brady’s on a mission for more SBs, and we get to watch history. Make no mistake about Tom Brady; he wasn’t handed anything. He’s earned it.

Top 5 Tuesday: WR Duos to Watch out for in 2018

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5. Julio Jones – Calvin Ridley

Both Alabama products are a match made in heaven for Atlanta, and a matchup nightmare for opposing corner backs. Julio Jones is a rare WR with his size. His speed and incredible and hands make him almost uncoverable. The All-Pro WR will be looking to have another great season with Atlanta in 2018. As for Ridley, Atlanta’s first round pick in this years draft should bring speed, with sharp route running and explosiveness off the line. Ridley will most likely draw the third best cornerback and will take advantage with his skill set. Atlanta looks primed to have a high-flying offense, in which Ridley will be a big part of.

Courtesy of google images

4. Antonio Brown – JuJu Smith-Schuster 

Brown is arguably the best WR in football. He gets a lot of attention from opposing defenses. Even with talented corners draped over him he still manages to make it look easy. Brown will have another dominant year in 2018, with Smith-Schuster demanding attention after coming off 917 yards and seven TDs last year. Look for him to help open up the offense more for Brown, while improving significantly this year.

3. DeAndre Hopkins – Will Fuller            

Mandatory Credit: Troy Taormina-USA TODAY Sports

With Deshaun Watson coming back expect these two WRs to have tremendous numbers in 2018. At just 25 years old, DeAndre Hopkins is one of the most dynamic receivers in the NFL. Last season he led the league in receiving TDs and was named first team All-Pro, even with his QB going down in early November with a torn ACL. 2018 is bright for Hopkins as he looks to add to his impressive resume. Helping him achieve the goals he’s set for himself is where Will Fuller comes in.

Fuller had a good rookie season in 2016 which led to high expectations going into last year, but the injury bug got to him. Fuller’s talent is unquestionable, and him being overlooked is all good news for him. He is going to have the season we thought he would last year. Fuller will be targeted more to make this WR tandem exciting to see come September.

2. Marvin Jones – Golden Tate 

The Lions boast the only WRs tandem to both go over 1,000 yards in 2017. As they revitalize their run game, Tate will keep racking up catches and using his skill set to accumulate his YAC. Marvin Jones had his best year in 2017, with his speed and being a constant deep ball threat. 2018 is looking very nice in Matthew Stafford’s eyes. Jones and Tate compliment each other perfectly, which makes them one of the best WR tandems today.

1. Stefon Diggs – Adam Thielen

Courtesy of T.E. Bechtold

2017 was quite a ride for the Minnesota Vikings. Watching Stefon Diggs’s play against the New Orleans Saints was destiny. Unfortunately for Viking fans the “Minnesota Miracle” couldn’t get them to the season’s final game. What it did do was just adding to an already long list of amazing plays by Diggs. His future in the NFL is a bright one with new QB Kirk Cousins. The better half of this WR duo would be Adam Thielen, Minnesota man through and through, has went from undrafted to unstoppable. He broke out in 2016 with a little under 1,000 yards. Last year was his real coming out party, setting career bests in receptions and yards 91 and 1,276. With Thielen getting better each year, 2018 just might be best for these two Vikings. Another year playing together along with Cousins under center, sky’s the limit in 2018.

The $60 Million Man

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Saving the Team Millions

Photo courtesy of Buisness Insider

Tom Brady has been the ultimate team player. He’s never been the highest paid quarterback in the NFL, despite being the most successful. According to Business Insider, Tom has left about $60 million dollars on the table throughout his career, and that is the conservative number. It’s possible the total is upward to $100 million.

New England has restructured Brady’s contract with two years left most in his career. This offseason however, no new deal has been reached with the star quarterback.

Photo courtesy of the Boston Globe

Tom Brady has helped the team financially with hopes the money will be spent to add talent on both sides of the ball. With September approaching quickly, I’m starting to think that there is no restructure coming this offseason. There is a silver lining for Patriots fans, however. Tom Brady will be at camp not just on time, but early according to his Instagram. Since we have gotten to know TB12 throughout the years, we have realized that he genuinely just loves playing football. Money has taken a backseat to winning, teammates and the joy football brings him.

An unusual 2017 season along with Super Bowl 52 has some asking, would paying Tom Brady “Jimmy G money” make him happier here? I don’t believe so, I think he wants his trainer Alex Guerrero back, that’s it. He wants to play until he’s 45 and more money won’t help him achieve that, his trainer will.

Photo courtesy of the Boston Globe

Guerrero and Brady vs. Belichick

All the reports of tension between Bill Belichick and Tom Brady seem to stem from Alex Guerrero, Tom’s trainer and buisness partner. Speculation that Tom is unhappy and ready to retire because of money is not the case at all. He’s never been about the money, and at age 41 I expect it to stay that way. Sure, maybe a contract extension with some money isn’t a bad thing to anyone in this league. However, at this point in Brady’s career it is more important to have his trainer closely involved.

$60 million is what this Boston legend has left out on the table throughout his career to help Bill Belichick build a better team around him. Now it’s time for Bill to return the favor and do what’s best for the team- just like Brady has done every year. To maximize the window the Patriots should bring Alex back in to make Brady happy. In addition, they should use some more of Tom’s generosity to pay the second most important player on the offense: Rob Gronkowski. Regardless of what happens, in the end the Patriots will be contending like usual, with or without a big contract for Tom Brady. Ring number six means a lot more to this QB than a huge contract.