Can Mookie Betts Turn Around His Down Season?

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In the second half of the abysmal 2014 season, the Boston Red Sox called up second baseman Markus Lynn “Mookie” Betts. The 21-year old was one of very few bright spots of that forgettable season. The kid raised many eyebrows as he batted .291, drove in 18 runs and stole seven bases in just 52 games. But the Sox already had a quality second baseman in veteran Dustin Pedroia,  a former MVP and Rookie of the Year.

Red Sox management had a simple solution to this dilemma.  Move Mookie to the outfield.  The kid had great speed, a strong and accurate throwing arm and great defensive instincts. The move turned out to be a good one as he very quickly became a fine outfielder.

 

 

In the 2015 season, Mookie began to make a name for himself.  He put together a very solid full season ending with a .291 average, 18 home runs, 42 doubles, 77 RBI and 21 steals. In 2016, Mookie took another huge stride towards greatness, truly one of the very best players in the entire league as a 23-year-old kid. In only his second full MLB season, he batted .318, scored 122 runs (2nd in MLB), recorded 214 hits (2nd in MLB), smacked 42 doubles, 31 home runs, drove in 113 runs (5th in MLB) and stole 26 bases. He finished 2nd in WAR ( 9.6) only behind Mike Trout’s 10.6 mark.

This incredible season landed him second in the MVP race behind the aforementioned Mike Trout. He started for the 2016 AL All Star team and won both the Golden Glove and Silver Slugger award. This impressive season launched him into elite player status. His name began to be mentioned with Mike Trout, Manny Machado, Nolan Arenado and Kris Bryant in conversation about the elite young players in the MLB.  Some talked about him as the new face of baseball.

From elite to beat?  Not so fast…

The 2017 season arrived and expectations for Mookie were through the roof.  The mouths of Red Sox fans watered in anticipation and excitement. The city eagerly waited for the start of the season to watch Mookie put together another MVP-level season. However, here we are in mid/late August and Mookie is batting just .265 with 18 home runs and his OPS (.787) is down .110 points from last year.  With no love lost for Mookie from his fans, many are concerned that he may have peaked last year, considering this to be a down year.

I would like to help those concerned individuals feel a little better about this so-called down year and show you why Red Sox Nation is so blessed to have this guy. Mookie needs just three more steals and two more home runs to become a 20/20 guy this year.  He leads the AL batting average with runners in scoring position at a .382 clip. he has 76 RBI (while predominantly batting lead-off).  To put into perspective that’s only four fewer than Aaron Judge. Not only is Mookie well above average in many offensive statistics this year, but he has also been phenomenal defensively as his Defensive Wins Above Replacement rating is at 2.54,   2nd in the MLB behind only Andrelton Simmons.

Betting on Mookie

Yes, Mookie may not be putting together another MVP type season like last year.   But he is certainly an extremely valuable asset to say the least.  His numbers are so far off his capabilities but he still ranks towards the top of the league in a wide variety of categories,  proof that he is an exceptional player. I am nothing but excited to see what kind of bounce-back season this young man can put together.  Fear not, Red Sox Nation.   We are fortunate to have this guy,  an All Star starter even with a ‘down year.’  While the kid’s numbers may be down,  the quick hands, blazing speed, relentless attitude and patented snarl are here to stay.

The Patriots quest for an undefeated season

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ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL?! These are the words that Patriots fans and football fans around the world long to hear every off-season leading up to week 1. The Patriots are coming off a super-bowl championship and a historic comeback against the Atlanta Falcons and are looking to repeat with an even better roster coming into this season.

With some major additions to this team such as Cooks, Ealy, Burkhead, and Gilmore, and the return of Malcolm Butler and Dont’a Hightower, this season has the potential to be a very special one. Being a HUGE Patriots fan I am looking forward to seeing what this roster can do and believe it could be an undefeated type of team. The current team looks like it could do what the 2007 team couldn’t, and that is to win the one last game, the biggest game of the year, the SUPER BOWL!

 

New England Patriots v Houston Texans

HOUSTON, TX – AUGUST 19: Tom Brady #12 of the New England Patriots warms up at NRG Stadium on August 19, 2017 in Houston, Texas. (Photo by Bob Levey/Getty Images)

 

Lets take a look at each game week by week and I will give my predictions and outlook for each game:

 

Week 1 – Chiefs @ Patriots

For a week one match-up to start the season this will be a good challenge to see what this Patriots team is about this season. The Chiefs always seem to play the Patriots tough whether it is on the road or at home and its largely in part to the coaching style of Andy Reid.

I personally think Alex Smith is no more than a system quarterback and is basically an average QB at best who does not throw a lot of touchdowns to his WR group. If the Patriots can shut down TE Travis Kelce then I think the defense and the offense will work together and make this game a one sided affair with the Pats secondary completely shutting the Chiefs down.

Prediction: Patriots 31 / Chiefs 13

 

Week 2 – Patriots @ Saints 

Week two features another exciting early season match-up that should test the Patriots on the road right away. With the addition of Adrian Peterson and a strong offense lead by Drew Brees and stud second year wide out Michael Thomas, the Saints offense should look to challenge the Patriots early on specifically trying to get the passing game opened up by a strong run game lead by AP.

Also in this match-up we see a return to New Orleans for ex-Saint wide receiver Brandin Cooks. Patriot fans get ready because Cooks can FLAT OUT BALL and is a burner down the side lines with a great set of hands and a HIGH FOOTBALL IQ. It will be fun all the way around to see how Cooks does in his first game back to NOLA. The Saints defense does not scare me one bit and I think Brady and the boys will look to mix the run game in but rely heavy on the passing game in this one.

Prediction: Patriots 24 / Saints 17

 

 

Week 3 – Texans @ Patriots 

Another good match-up here between a good Texans defense featuring big names like Cushing, Clowney, and Watt who will look to keep pressure on Brady all game and make him uncomfortable in the pocket. For me this game could be a BLOW OUT pending the offensive line play and the protection of TB12.

On the other side of the ball the Texans don’t do much to scare me other than making sure Hopkins and Lamar Miller are contained. I think this will be a one sided game in favor of the Pats especially playing in the House the Kraft built.

Prediction: Patriots 27 / Texans 10

 

Week 4 – Panthers @ Patriots 

One of the more intriguing match-ups to me on the schedule is when Cam and the Panthers come in to town. Anytime Cam Newton takes the field something special can / will happen but unfortunately for Cam he does not have much help on offense outside of Greg Olsen, Jonathan Stewart, and Kelvin Benjamin. On the defensive side of the ball you cant miss one of the best linebackers in the game in BC product, Luke Kuechly.

Again, this is another team where the defense shouldn’t change the Pats game-plan or worry them too much. Look for guys like Brady, Cooks, Edelman, and Gronkowski to have big games in this one. Also, look for Kony Ealy to have a good impact on the defensive side of the ball against his old team….. Pats win another one at home.

Prediction: Patriots 27 / Panthers 17

 

Carolina Panthers v Tampa Bay Buccaneers

 

Week 5 – Patriots @ Buccaneers 

This one should be a no-brainer for the Pats and all 3 phases of the ball should fire on all cylinders. The only thing that could worry me in this game is the Buc’s young offense featured by stud QB Jameis Winston, star WR Mike Evans, another good WR in Da’sean Jackson, and RB Doug Martin (who is sketchy to say the least).

The Pats offense should have its way in this both on the ground and in the air. I look for Tommy to come out and have a MONSTER game in the sunshine state and blow the Buc’s out of the water.

Prediction: Pats 31 / Buc’s 20

 

Week 6 Patriots @ Jets (LOL)

There is not much more I can say about this Jets team besides LOL. This is a team who has a starting QB that was kicked out of practice for not properly breaking the huddle. Quite frankly Julian Edelman could play QB this week and we would still win hands down. This prediction is a quick one.

Prediction: Pats 24 / Jets 3 

J-E-T-S / SUCK SUCK SUCK!

 

Eeek 7 – Falcons @ Patriots (The Re-match)

This is the game all football fans want to see, a re-match of the super-bowl. Yes, the same super-bowl  match up and saw the Falcons blow a 28-3 lead against TB12 and the Patriots with 2:08 remaining in the 3rd quarter. This game is going to be tough, dirty, hard fought, and gritty. Buckle up football fans, this is what is all about.

On the Falcons side not much has changed besides guys like Matt Ryan, Devonta Freeman, and Julio changes out for revenge and blood. The Falcons are stacked in all 3 phases of the game and make for one of the two most difficult match-ups the Patriots will have this season (the other being the Raiders).

With this game being a home game and a re-match of the Super Bowl, expect there to be fireworks coming from Tommy and the boys. I believe this will be a high scoring game that eventually turns away from the run and ends up in the air with bomb after bomb coming from both teams.

The match-up to watch is this game is going to be whichever corner covers Julio Jones. To me the best bet to cover him is the taller corner in Gilmore, but come on….is there really any stopping Julio Jones? As the late, great Stewart Scott use to say, “You cant stop him, you can only hope to contain him.”.

Prediction: Patriots 28 / Falcons 24

#NeverForget ….. LETS GOOOOOO!!!!!!

 

Week 8 – Chargers @ Patriots

The match-ups with the Chargers always seem to be fun due to the intensity level a guy like Philip Rivers can bring to a game. For me this game is an easy one to predict as the Patriots offense should beat up on a weaker defense lead by stud defensive end Joey Bosa.

The Chargers come with some good offensive fire power in the form of Rivers, Melvin Gordon, Keenan Allen, Travis Benjamin, Hunter Henry, and the ageless wonder Antonio Gates. If the Patriots can limit a good running back in Gordon in this game then I think the Patriots linebackers and secondary can handle the passing attack of the Chargers which will lead to the Patriots offense scoring a bunch against their defense especially in a home game.

Prediction: Patriots 35 / Chargers 17

 

Week 9 – BYE WEEK (PATRIOTS STILL SOMEHOW WIN LOL)

AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am - Round One

 

Week 10 – Patriots @ Broncos 

Typically this is a BIG time match-up between two teams who CLEARLY dislike one another but with Peyton gone it just doesn’t have the same type of feel to it. Luckily for football fans there still is the threat that is the Broncos defense.

The Broncos have two good cornerbacks in Chris Harris, and Aqib Talib (formerly of the Patriots) and also have one of the dirtiest players in their secondary in T.J. Ward who can also flat out ball at his position. Besides the secondary there are a few other keys players that will be looking to plant Brady on his backside and those two guys are Von Miller and Brandon Marshall.

Personally for me if the Patriots O-Line can limit the attack on Brady and keep him upright then I think the Patriots can do damage in the running game which will open up the skies for TB12 to throw some bombs in this one. As far as the Bronco’s offense they have two good WR’s in Emmanuel Sanders and Demaryius Thomas but we also possess what could be the best secondary in the league which I don’t think will have any problem locking them down.

Lets also not forget the Broncos don’t have the best guy leading the charge in Trevor Siemian, or Paxton Lynch. Look for the Patriots to blitz and blitz a lot in this one. The run game will also need to step up as a former stud RB is in the backfield for the Broncos in the form of Jamaal Charles teaming with an always dangerous C.J. Anderson.

Prediction: Patriots 21 / Broncos 17

 

Week 11 – Patriots @ Raiders (IN MEXICO)

This game should be one of the more exciting games in the league all year long. Not only do we have a young, stacked, beast-mode lead Raiders team going against The Goat and his crew but there is always the treat of some cartel activity in Mexico!

All jokes aside this will be the toughest match-up for the Patriots besides the match-up against the Falcons. Not only are the Raiders young and lead by a great QB in Derek Carr but they have fire power on offense in Marshawn Lynch, Michael Crabtree, and Amari Cooper. On the defensive side of the ball there is Khalil Mack (Best LB in football), Jealni Jenkins, Bruce Irvin, Reggie Nelson, and Sean Smith.

This game will be a back and forth slug-fest between 2 of the leagues better teams and ultimately I have the Pats winning the game and facing the Raiders in a re-match in the AFC Championship game. I believe the Pats offense and their experience will be too much for the Raiders to handle on a neutral field in this match-up.

Prediction: Pats 27 / Raiders 24

 

Week 12 – Dolphins @ Patriots

Oddly enough these two rivals dont play one another until the later weeks of the season with the second match-up coming only two weeks later in week 14. With Tannehill going down on a non-contact knee injury and the phins’ bringing in Jay Cutler, the Patriots game plan should really only be stopping Jay Ajayi and limiting Jarvins Landry on offense and special teams. Also, the O-line needs to protect Brady from any dirty plays lead by non other than, Ndamukong Suh.

Patriots should have no problem squishing the fish in either match-up…

Prediction: Patriots 31 / Dolphins 10

 

Week 13 – Patriots @ Bills

Another in-division rivalry that starts later in the season, the Bills always give the Patriots a little bit of a hard time. Tyrod Taylor has good days and bad days and this year I think both match-ups will be bad days for him seeing as how they got rid of his only weapon in Sammy Watkins, and also let Gilmore walk out the door and walk into Gillette Stadium. Another sleeper for the patriots who could emerge huge in this game is RB Mike Gillislee.

Look for Brady, Gronk, Cooks, Hogan, Edelman, Gillislee, Gilmore, Butler, McCourty, Hightower ALL TO EAT IN THIS GAME

Prediction: Patriots 27 / Bills 13

 

Week 14- Patriots @ Dolphins

Another repeat of the first match-up, this time in what figures to be nicer weather, the Patriots win this one but with a little more difficulty since it is in Miami which usually gives the Patriots some issues.

Prediction: Patriots 20 / Dolphins 14

 

Week 15 – Patriots @ Steelers 

In what use to be a fantastic match-up between Big Ben and Brady it looks like Big Ben’s better days are behind him. The Steelers are ALWAYS a threat due to their offensive fire power lead by Antonio Brown and Le’veon Bell. This year will be a little different as the Steelers figure to have the talented / big-bodied WR back in Martavis Bryant who can always be a match-up nightmare due to his size and speed.

The Patriots offense should take complete control in this game seeing as how the Steelers don’t have much of a pass rush or secondary to really keep them competitive with Brady and the boys. These games use to be close but for some reason I see that trend as a thing of the past. If the Patriots shut down Bell like they did in the AFC title game before his random injury, then I think the linebackers and secondary can shut down their TE’s and WR’s.

Prediction: Patriots 27 / Steelers 17

 

Week 16 – Bills @ Patriots 

Again, the Bills just don’t have enough fire power or star power to compete with the patriots especially this late in the year during a playoff push and especially when its in Foxboro. Give credit to Bill’s Mafia for always making the tailgating fun to watch though….another blow out…

Prediction: Patriots 31 / Bills 14

 

Week 17 – Jets @ Patriots

LOL – ENOUGH SAID

Prediction: Patriots 28 / Jets 3

 

 

Post Season Predictions:

AFC CHAMPIONSHIP –

Raiders @ Patriots

Patriots 24 / Raiders 17

 

SUPER BOWL –

Packers @ Patriots

Patriots 34 / Packers 24

 

OUTCOME:

Patriots go UNDEFEATED and WIN their 6th Super Bowl and TB12 is named MVP….. LETS GOOOOOO!!!!!

 

 

 

How Will Tom Brady Share the Wealth?

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Tom Brady has a bevy of quality receivers at his disposal for this upcoming season. We all know Tom Brady is not only the best quarterback in the NFL, or even just the best quarterback in NFL history, but in fact the greatest being to ever grace this Earth with his presence. He will get everyone their looks, each receiver will have their day. But how can we expect those receptions to be split up?

Wide Receivers

Julian Edelman #11 of the New England Patriots makes a catch during a game against the Miami Dolphins at Hard Rock Stadium on January 1, 2017 in Miami Gardens, Florida. (Photo by Mike Ehrmann/Getty Images)

Julian Edelman is the old standby at wide receiver. He is Tom Brady’s most trusted target. The two of them know what each other is thinking and Brady can rely on Edelman being where he is supposed to be. Edelman is 31 now and has been banged up in recent years, but he will still get fed. In his four years as a starter he has averaged 104 receptions per 16 games played. Problem is, he doesn’t usually play in all 16. With Cooks in the fold there is a chance we see a slight decline in targets this year, but I don’t think it will be much. If Edelman can stay on the field I would expect to see 90+ receptions from him again this year. About 6 receptions per game seems about right for him.

Brandin Cooks is the hardest to predict since he is the newcomer. Yes, he is coming to New England with Tom Brady, but he was already in a great offense in New Orleans. Also, with New Orleans he had less competition for targets. The Patriots are loaded with pass catchers, the Saints were mostly Cooks and Michael Thomas. Cooks averaged 81 catches the last two years for 1156 yards and 8 touchdowns. I know a lot of people are expecting huge things from Cooks, but I think that sounds about right for him again this year. He can help spread the field and open up more lanes underneath, he can also catch some of those short screen passes at the line and try to make something of them. But with 4 good wide receivers, a few pass catching backs and Rob Gronkowski I don’t see Cooks suddenly increasing his catch total. If anything goes up I think it will be his touchdown total.

Malcolm Mitchell is a good receiver, capable of starting on most teams. On the Patriots he is behind a wealth of others on the pecking order. He will keep a role in the offense however, provided he can stay healthy. Mitchell caught 32 passes and 4 touchdowns in his rookie season last year. He really came on late in the year though, catching 21 passes between weeks 9 and 12 while scoring all 4 of his touchdowns. He even caught 6 passes in the Super Bowl during the Pats late comeback. There will be some weeks where we don’t see much of Mitchell and others where he is thrown to quite a bit. I think the Patriots “3rd” wide receiver will be matchup based, Mitchell and Hogan both having their days in the sun. I’m thinking 40-45 receptions for Mitchell this year if he can stay on the field. He has had knee problems dating back to college. The larger likelihood is Mitchell winds up missing a few games and finishes closer to 35 receptions.

Chris Hogan is the forgotten man. After bringing Cooks into the fold people have seemingly forgotten about Chris Hogan. He had 38 catches last year for 680 yards, leading the league at 17.9 yards per catch. He then came up huge in the postseason with 17 catches in 3 games and 19.5 yards per catch. His play will be a bit sporadic, matchup based. Teams that are susceptible to the long ball Hogan will be given a lot of run. Teams beat more by good route running and shorter to medium range passes I think Mitchell will see the field more. Counting the playoffs Hogan had two 100 yard games and three 90 yard games last year. I expect his stats to be hit and miss again this year. 35 catches with 600 yards seems to be doable.

Danny Amendola is still around after taking a third pay cut to stay in New England. I don’t see him doing a whole lot though unless injuries ahead of him free up targets. If everyone stays healthy Amendola may fall short of 30 catches for the third time in five seasons.

Tight Ends

Rob Gronkowski #87 of the New England Patriots makes the Broncos defenders look silly. (Photo by Doug Pensinger/Getty Images)

Rob Gronkowski hasn’t played in all 16 games since 2011 (though he did play 15 two years ago). I see no reason why the Patriots wouldn’t scale back his snaps with all these other offensive weapons they have. There is no reason to risk injury by sending Gronk onto the field for 60, 70 snaps a game. They have another tight end who is also a good blocker, and they have plenty of good to great pass catchers. Gronkowski’s snaps should be limited in an effort to keep him healthy and playing through January. Due to this, I don’t see Gronk catching 70, 80 balls like he has in the past. If he can stay on the field for all 16 games maybe 65 catches, but that’s a big if given his history. The touchdowns should still be there regardless. When healthy Gronkowski is an unstoppable force, impossible to cover and dragging defenders down the field like a man playing amongst boys. In a full season double digit touchdowns is still likely, but I’d hope and expect his snap count is brought down this year.

Dwayne Allen was brought in to fill the Martellus Bennett role. He is a younger, cheaper version of Bennett. Biggest problem with him is he has missed games in each of the past 4 seasons. Hopefully he can stay on the field and take some pressure and snaps off of Gronkowski. Allen is a good blocker, but also has capable hands. He scored 8 touchdowns in 2014 and 6 last season. I see him still catching some touchdowns down near the goal line. Opposing defenses will focus on Gronkowski, or maybe on the run game, freeing up a lane for Allen to slip free unnoticed. For catches I see him in the 35 range, but coming with about 6 touchdowns. That’s if Gronk can stay healthy. If Gronk goes down we could see Allen creep up closer to Bennett’s 55 receptions from a year ago.

Running Backs

HOUSTON, TX – FEBRUARY 05: James White #28 of the New England Patriots with the ball against the Atlanta Falcons during Super Bowl 51 at NRG Stadium on February 5, 2017 in Houston, Texas. The Patriots defeat the Atlanta Falcons 34-28 in overtime. (Photo by Focus on Sport/Getty Images)

James White is the main pass catching back. Honestly, that’s why he is here. He doesn’t make many guys miss and isn’t a huge threat as a runner. White is out there on the field to catch passes, create mismatches lined up against linebackers who can’t cover him. In fact, although he is a running back White has caught 35 more passes in his career than he has carries! He caught 60 balls a year ago and then added 18 more in the playoffs. He will still be the Patriots top receiving back, but they now have 4 capable runners who all have decent hands as well. They don’t have anyone like Legarrette Blount this year who has to be taken out on passing downs. All of them can catch the ball and make things happen. I see White’s receptions dropping some this year, maybe into the 45- 50 range.

Mike Gillislee has been assumed to be the main runner all offseason, and I think that will still be the case. However, the Patriots have always loved to play the matchups and I think each of their running backs will have their Sunday in the sun. Each will have a big game, but overall Gillislee probably leads the team in rushing yards and rushing touchdowns. He is also a capable pass catcher, so unlike with Blount last year it won’t be obvious the Patriots are running when their main back is in the game. I think he stays in the game and becomes a dump off option on passing plays, picking up 25-30 receptions.

Rex Burkhead is making some late noise in the competition for reps at running back. Burkhead was given a chance to start in week 17 last year with the Bengals and ran for 119 yards and 2 touchdowns. He is in the same kind of mold as a Danny Woodhead, if he carves out a starting role over Mike Gillislee he could catch 40+ balls this season. As it stands now I expect Gillislee to get the most work, but I think Burkhead will have a couple big games. I have him pegged for 25 receptions, with the ability to corral a lot more with playing time.

Dion Lewis is the shiftiest of the Patriots running backs. He can make guys look downright silly out on the field when the ball is in his hands. Lewis gets banged up though and misses a lot of time, so it’s hard to envision him having a huge role. In 2014, Lewis caught 36 passes in only 7 games as the Patriots featured him a lot more that year. Given his injury history he won’t be as heavily used. However, he did manage to catch 17 passes last year in his 7 games after returning from injury. This leads me to believe Lewis will still have some sort of role. Even with the crowded backfield he could catch 2-3 balls per game.

Where is David Price?

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Since David Price went on the DL, the $31M dollar pitcher has had very little to say. The Red Sox have played well and still hold first place in the Division. But where is David Price? When will he come back?

The Red Sox need Price back because when he gets into a groove he can be unstoppable. But lately, the only ace I can see on this team is Chris Sale. The guy pitches with the  attitude of a winner.  Just what the Red Sox needed.

Cheese with that whine?

Price  has whined, complained, and hauled off on at Dennis Eckersely. My advice for Price would be do your talking on the mound and pitch well before you open your mouth. Price has been mouthy since he got here and it’s clear he hates Boston when he said he’d rather go home to his mother-in-law.

I want to see David Price win a playoff game before he opens his mouth. It’s almost like the Red Sox keep Price from pitching so his mouth doesn’t become a distraction. With him on the DL they are better,  but will they win a playoff series without him? I’m sorry to say that answer is no.

The Red Sox have a big series with Cleveland followed by Baltimore this weekend. Price hasn’t walked onto the mound recently, so you have to wonder —  is he hurt or did the Red Sox just make this up? I really hope he pitches well and proves his doubters wrong. The guy needs to live up to his contract,  which clearly he has not done.  Most likely he will  opt out after next season. But I’m looking forward to seeing him come back, and find out if he just pitches and and can shut up.

Every AFC East Team’s Fantasy Football Sleeper Of 2017

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With fantasy football just a few short weeks away it is time to focus on drafting your fantasy team. Every NFL team has a player who most people sleep on during the season. Others tend to forget about certain players which slip the fantasy owner’s mind. Every team has that player that fantasy owners don’t think could be effective for them.  @Cjoneswho and @TheFrizz87 put their fantasy football knowledge together, to build an AFC East sleeper list. With that being said here are every AFC East team’s sleeper pick for the 2017 fantasy football season.

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Red Sox vs. Dodgers World Series Matchup? (Game 1 Preview)

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This article was written before the Red Sox and Yankees played on Friday, August 18th)

As anyone who has followed baseball in 2017 knows, the  Los Angeles Dodgers have been far and away the most dominant team in the majors. The NL-West looked like a tight, three-team race that included the Diamondbacks, Rockies and Dodgers. But one team has risen to the top. The young and talented team out in LA has taken off like nothing in recent memory, going 19-9 in May, 21-7 in June, 20-3 in July, and 11-3 so far in August. This includes a 24-5 record in the second half of the season.

Loading the bench with talent

Then you have the Boston Red Sox, the young and gritty team, expected to play like the Dodgers. Getting swept by the Indians in the 2016 ALDS was certainly disappointing, but Dave Dombrowski wanted to make sure that the Red Sox did not lack a superstar after David Ortiz retired. He pulled off a blockbuster over the winter, acquiring ace Chris Sale in exchange for four prospects including prized Cuban slugger Yoan Moncada. After the trade, even Yankees GM Brian Cashman referred to the Red Sox as the “Golden State Warriors.”

Up until the trade deadline, the Red Sox were an up and down team that couldn’t quite find their identity. That was until the night of July 25th, when the Red Sox picked up Eduardo Nunez, a utility infielder from the San Francisco Giants. To add to the youth movement, the Red Sox called up third-baseman Rafael Devers, who played in AAA for less than a week. Red Sox Nation questioned those two moves, but these two new guys have led the Red Sox to an 11-2 record since the trade deadline. A bold move on the same day the Yankees traded for stud pitcher Sonny Gray from the Athletics. The Sox jumped into first place and haven’t looked back since.  Many people believe the possibility of a potential Red Sox Dodgers World Series.

It would look something like this:

Game 1: Chris Sale (14-4, 2.51 ERA) vs. Clayton Kershaw (15-2, 2.04 ERA)

As far as pitching matchups in the postseason go, this is the best that you’re going to see. Two aces squaring off against two magnificent lineups. Even with Kershaw on the DL list right now, you know he will be ready to bring it in the big dance. And Chris Sale, is well, Chris Sale. Sale may have the upper hand, as the Dodgers hit at similar clip vs Righties and Lefties, (.258 vs Lefties),(.257 vs Righties). The difference comes with the homeruns, the Dodgers have 116 homeruns vs righties this season with only 57 vs lefties.

The Red Sox bullpen also has an advantage, as their main pieces are all right-handed. The back end of the bullpen for the Red Sox and Dodgers are similar, both teams have dominant closers. Kenley Jansen is 5-0 with a 1.20 ERA so far in 2017 with 32 saves in 50 games. Craig Kimbrel has a 1.41 ERA with 94 K’s in 51 IP.

Poor post-season record

Clayton Kershaw has a shaky postseason track record, giving up a clutch home run to Matt Adams in game four of the 2014 ALDS, or getting shelled by the Cubs in game six of the 2016 ALCS. However, he is the best pitcher on the planet in many people’s eyes, and even though he hasn’t proven to be a Madison Bumgarner type postseason pitcher, he still has nasty stuff that could fool any hitter on any given night.

Sale (of the century)

Chris Sale is as dominant of a regular season pitcher that you are going to watch, but being on the lackluster White Sox for his entire career before coming to Boston, he has never tasted the postseason. Whether he will show up is not a question. He will show up, and he will bring his nasty slider and lively fastball with him. The question — can he handle the pressure and adrenaline of the playoffs, especially the World Series?

All things considered, the Red Sox will likely walk away narrowly with a game-one win, setting the tone for the rest of the World Series.

Buckle up and grab some popcorn. It’s going to be a great one.

Game 1 Prediction: Red Sox defeat Dodgers, 3-2

Then again, it’s the postseason, anything can happen…right?

Boston Red Sox’s Rafael Devers smiles after hitting a foul ball during the sixth inning of the team’s baseball game against the Seattle Mariners, Tuesday, July 25, 2017, in Seattle. (AP Photo/Ted S. Warren)

Way-too-early NBA predictions on the 2017 Celtics

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Enthusiasm for a season hasn’t been this high since the Big 3 came to town, but with some young studs, proven veterans and our second free agent in as many seasons, we have plenty to be excited about.   A lot of people feel that tipping the scales at 53 wins and the #1 season was an over achievement – so if the Celtics simply’ achieve’ how much more can we expect?  I hit the streets, Twitter, and my fantasy football league (they like the Celtics too) to find out fan predictions for the 2017 season.

New York Knicks v Boston Celtics - Game Six

BOSTON, MA – MAY 3: Paul Pierce #34 of the Boston Celtics and Kevin Garnett #5 exchange words in the final moment in the 4th quarter in Game Six of the Eastern Conference Quarterfinals of the 2013 NBA Playoffs on May 3, 2013 at TD Garden in Boston, Massachusetts. The Celtics lost 88-80. (Photo by Jim Rogash/Getty Images)

Survey says…

“I don’t see them eclipsing last years total in wins and am going to keep them at 53 wins.  The battle will be similar to last year between Toronto and Boston for the Atlantic Division with the April 4th contest between the two being deciding factor for who will see first Cleveland in the post season” – @JoshBeRube

“Celtics last season’s record was 53-29. The question everyone asks, though, did they improve that much this off season? The loss of Avery Bradley certainly hurts as he was one of our defensive bulldogs . With the addition of Gordon Hayward and another year of being with the Celtics for big Al , I can only see our record improving to what could possibly be a nice 58-24 record improving us by 5 wins. 60 is a big chance especially with how weak the East has become.  For the number one seed it’s a two-horse race between the Celtics and Cavaliers. As long as Lebron James is at Cleveland, he will continue to push and fight. In terms of playoffs, we look ready to reach the Conference finals in a replay against the Cavaliers. The Celtics look stronger, and our bench depth will become a big factor when we bring in the second unit and need scoring from the likes of Tatum, Rozier, Brown and Smart. We may be able to take Cleveland to a seven-game series but sadly going down 4-3 if the Cavs’ roster stays intact. Hold tight though, Bean town! The future is ever so bright and we can only look forward to what we have to come with the likes of rookies and even Boston being a popular destination for free agents to sign here.”  -@mitchphillipsbc
2017 Las Vegas Summer League - Portland Trail Blazers v Boston Celtics

LAS VEGAS, NV – JULY 09: P.J. Carlesimo (L) gets ready to interview Jayson Tatum #11 of the Boston Celtics after the team’s 70-64 win over the Portland Trail Blazers in a 2017 Summer League game at the Thomas & Mack Center on July 9, 2017 in Las Vegas, Nevada. (Photo by Ethan Miller/Getty Images)

“57-25(53-29) +4 wins . The addition of Gordon Hayward gives the Celtics the scorer they need. Then a bigger starting lineup will give them a better chance to win the rebound battle. I imagine they will start off slow but their talent and having a more equipped bench than most teams – will allow them win while learning to play together.   Once they get on the same page, you will see short runs and flashes of what the team will be come playoff time. It may take a while, but once they are up and running they will be fine.” – @BlaiseG1991
“I’d like to be 52-30.  We’re a better team this year but getting some of the younger guys more minutes and time to develop is in the best interest of the team in the long run.  I think Stevens will play to that and we’ll be a better team come playoffs because of it.”  – Adam K
“I think the entire “net” will be three more games than last year.  Good for 56 wins, second seed.  They get to the ECFs and lose in six.  Not buying all the dysfunction in Cleveland.   Cavs are shooting for the best record and home court throughout the playoffs.” – Chris R
“They may struggle a little to start the season, as half the team has turned over, but will get hot late.  They will finish 51-31, to earn 2nd seed.  Brad Steven’s will experiment will different line-ups early, knowing that the team will have time to make up ground in an extremely weak Eastern Conference.  They will reach the Eastern Conference Finals, but lost to the Cavs in five games.  LeBrown is just too much to handle, ITs defense will again be an issue and three of the four Cavs wins will be by four points or less.”  – @williesteegz
“Celtics will be 56-26 and another 1 seed.  Got better adding Hayward and Jaylen Brown will take a leap forward with more minutes.  Tatum will provide instant scoring.  Teams also can’t focus on IT the whole time which will open up the paint and allow for him to get to the rack and either put it up or dish it to the shooter.  Cavs are in disarray and Kyrie is most likely gone.”  – @MatthewKusch1
I tend to agree with the folks expecting about 55 wins.  The team is more talented than last year, but as @Williesteegz said, half the team has turned over.  You can’t argue that the acquisition of Gordon Hayward and having one of the deepest benches in the league with overcome much of the “first-day-in-a-new- school syndrome” but it’s there.  All in all, the team has the talent, but we’ve seen talented teams underachieve in the past if they lose their identity.  Don’t forget, the C’s have one of their more difficult schedules in recent memory with 25 nationally televised games (If Rondo was still here, he’d probably have his best season) – for more schedule analysis keep an eye out for @JoshBeRube’s article later this week.
 Brad Stevens has his most exciting roster, but it’s on him to ensure the pieces don’t just fit, but overachieve (again).

Can We Leave Politics Out Of Sports?

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When people go to any sporting event in this case baseball, it’s a time when people come together to watch their team play and win. It’s a time during the game when the politics should stop and it’s all about cheering for your team. In this case players that go to Red Sox games from opposing teams some say they have heard racial slurs. It’s not right but doesn’t make the City of Boston racist cause of some stupid fan.

In regards to John Henry’s comments about the “Yawkey Way” sign, if your going to replace it in my opinion don’t say it’s because Tom Yawkey was racist and it hurts the image of the Red Sox. If it hurt the image of the Red Sox John you wouldn’t name a bridge after David Ortiz, probably wouldn’t even have signed him, and wouldn’t have signed Pedro Martinez.

It’s all about politics and the image. All I care about is winning games every night. Apparently that’s not what Henry cares about, he cares about a sign that has been a street name forever because it hurts the image of the Red Sox, give me a break. If the Red Sox lose and people stop going then that’s when the image will hurt them. It shouldn’t matter what a street name says.

When Tom Yawkey owned the Red Sox that’s was a long time ago when race was a problem, people will always find a problem some are just negative. It wasn’t right he was racist but like I said all that should matter is the performance on the field. Not some arrogant fan, or some street sign. When you go to a game all that nonsense should go away and just have fun.

I love sports and when I go to Fenway Park all that bad stuff around the world and this Country leaves the mind so you can enjoy a game and hope the Red Sox win. If Henry just came out and said we want to change the name of “Yawkey Way ” we would like to name it something a little more current then that would’ve been fine. Like be Bill Belichick with it don’t say something and bring up politics, you should just go back to you’re soccer team and watch Liverpool. Be quiet mouthed about it like he litterly told the paper what he said to the Mayor why? To draw controversy and to get people talking. He should’ve just kept it simple with the media like Belichick does but nope.

If they do take it down I saw on Twitter that they could name it “Jimmy Fund Way,” why don’t you just make it “David Ortiz Way,” or leave it the way it is. Whatever they decide makes no difference all that matters is the Red Sox win games.

 

 

Recap of the Patriots’ Preseason Week 2 Loss in Houston

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The Patriots returned to Houston for the first time since their Super Bowl victory at NRG Stadium 195 days ago. The memory of that monumental win (including some confetti left over from the game), still sat fresh in the minds of Patriots’ veterans and coaches. Unfortunately, the outcome of the preseason match-up against the Texans did not live up to the team’s expectations. Though, still early in the preseason, the Patriots have shown struggles on both sides of the field. At the same time they have shown hints of talent in certain positions. This is to be expected to happen when the team inserts players into certain schemes or situations in a game to see their long term worth. These are the most prevalent aspects to take away from this loss:

Rex Burkhead Rolls with the Starting Offense

Burkhead showed early that he can keep up with offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels’s interchangeable game plan. He made a short appearance in the game lining up in the backfield, however performed well as a receiving back for Tom Brady. Rex ran for 20 yards on seven attempts but his stats were more impressive catching the ball, racking up 50 yards and a touchdown from 3 catches. Burkhead’s highlight of the game was being able to pull away from his defender in the second quarter to easily haul in a touchdown pass from Tom Brady.

Rex Burkhead is slated to become a special teams threat and has the potential to make plays like this, accumulating reps from both on the ground or in the air. Rex has strong competition at the running back position behind Mike Gillislee, James White, and Dion Lewis, but he can serve his purpose in special situations on offense for the Patriots. He is stocky and quick enough to run the ball in on the goal line, and at the sametime share reps with James White as a receiving back.  

Defensive Breakdown

So far in this preseason the Patriots defense has been less than perfect. The backups have looked sluggish and have struggled to make plays. Two missed tackles on a slant route in the third quarter led to a whopping 63 yard gain for Texans’ D’Onta Foreman. A short pass that turns into a huge gain is never pretty for a defense, especially backups fighting for a job.

The drive ended with another defensive breakdown where Kony Ealy failed to bring down Deshaun Watson in the backfield. Deshaun Watson then capitalized by running up the middle of his offensive line and into the endzone with ease. Kony Ealy is presumed to start at defensive end, mistakes like this should be corrected before the season starts.

Malcolm Butler, another starter for the defense, gave up a touchdown in broken coverage in the first quarter. This is an issue which certainly needs to be worked on before the regular season begins.

New England Patriots v Houston Texans : News Photo

Offensive Line Looks  Lost

The backup offensive line did not protect Jimmy Garoppolo to their best ability to say the least. Defensive pressure and failed coverage led Garoppolo to make some mistakes against the Texans. He gave up a fumble due to a failed blocking assignment in the third quarter and more of the same lead to an interception in the early stages of the fourth. In general Garoppolo did fairly well despite the turnovers. It definitely would have helped if he had more time to set up in the pocket from play to play. Offensive line coach Dante Scarnecchia transformed the Patriots’ offensive line back to its former dignity in his first season back with the team last year, but this preseason has shown some regression with the backups, showing he has some work to do in next week’s practices.

Cyrus Jones Impresses as Return Man

Cyrus Jones has actively been trying to fix his special teams problems from last season. In his rookie season he fumbled the ball five times and was ultimately pulled from the return team. This preseason, the Patriots have been giving him chances to return the ball again, and has so far impressed coaches. After the game Coach Bill Belichick praised Cyrus’s work, saying to the press, “I though Cyrus did a good job in the return game, both in punts and kickoffs. Ran hard. Ran aggressively. Made good decisions with and without the ball. Had a couple of situations where the ball either hit the ground or was going out of bounds. I thought he did a nice job”.

Coach Belichick’s words might translate into Cyrus regaining his returning role back, and certainly will help him gain opportunities to return the ball for the team in the final two preseason games.

Image result for cyrus jones texans

A WHIRLWIND OFF-SEASON FOR THE BOSTON CELTICS

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Boston Celtics Introduce Brad Stevens

(Photo by Darren McCollester/Getty Images)

 

Who’s Next To Wear Green?

Gordon Hayward, Anthony Davis, Carmelo Anthony, Paul George, Jimmy butler, the list goes on and on of potential, “could be” next Boston Celtics super star.  As the 2017 NBA off-season winds down we are starting to see the new Celtics roster take shape and we are left with some feelings that we get every year of, “what could have been” if different moves had been made. From the addition of Gordon Hayward to the subtraction of beloved Avery Bradley, let’s take a look and recap what has been one of the busiest/craziest Celtics off-seasons since maybe the Garnett/Pierce/Allen era began.

 

The One Loss:

Cleveland Cavaliers v Boston Celtics - Game Five

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

First, let’s start with maybe the most substantial loss to any NBA team this off-season on both ends of the floor and when it comes to leadership in the locker room, and that man’s name is Avery Bradley. Whether you loved him for his all-out hustle and dirt dog style of play or hated him due to his inconsistency to stay on the floor due to injuries, there is one thing Celtics fans can’t deny and that is that Avery Bradley the person will be missed on the court and off the court for this Celtics team going forward. Not only did Avery show passion on the court with his hard-nose style of play but he also showed passion off the court for the time and effort he put in with children and fans alike in Celtics Nation. There is NO DOUBT that Avery the person and Avery the basketball player (whom by the way was snubbed from the ALL NBA DEFENSIVE TEAM) WILL be missed.

 

The MAJOR Gain(s):

Detroit Pistons v New York Knicks

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

  Now that we have discussed the one loss that could haunt the Celtics this season let’s talk positive and discuss a few of the additions that were made that Celtics fans may like, not like, or learn to love. First let’s go with the man who was traded for Avery Bradley and that is Marcus Morris. For those not familiar with Marcus or only know his brother Markieff (instigator for the Wizards) let me begin by saying that Marcus should not be slept on because this guy can BALL and will flat out go to war for anyone wearing green next to him. This guy is a tall/long forward who can play and guard the 3 and 4 positions and can pretty much score from anywhere on the floor, although his defense won’t be on the same level as Avery but that’s what we have a guy named Marcus Smart for.

The next big addition on this team for me anyways is going to be this year’s draft selection, Jayson Tatum. Tatum was just voted as the NBA’s rookie that is most likely to succeed which is high praise for a kid who was drafted #3 overall it what could turn out to be a very good draft class.  At first I was not keen on the idea of Ainge making ANOTHER draft selection on a team that is already young and looking for another superstar to take some of the load off guys like IT4 and Al Horford. Not only did they get a draft pick in Tatum that can help right away and eventually become a star in this league but also went out and signed one of if not THE biggest names on the Free Agent circuit and that is Gordon Hayward who we will get into further down the line.

2017 NBA Rookie Photo Shoot

(Photo by Elsa/Getty Images)

Jayson Tatum may not be the best “athlete” from this year’s draft but there is no question after watching him in Summer League play and reading all the reports on this guy that he will be the BEST all-around scorer from this year’s draft. Tatum has the ability to play positions 2-4 and can even handle the ball at the 1 and create a shot and score off the dribble. He is also long enough to guard any position on the floor and although he and Jaylen Brown can be scary together it does make way for a possible trade involving Brown for another super-star that plays in New Orleans and has the last name Davis (just an idea), so Celtics fans be ready because Jayson Tatum is indeed the next BIG THING.

Next up, the major move…Gordon Hayward!!! This guy is an all-out consistent Scorer and a flat out BIG TIME BALLER whom Celtics Nation will have no choice but to love. Gordon Hayward is an underrated player in this league but with this Celtics team the league will have to finally recognize him as one of the better all-around players in the league. Pairing Hayward with the likes of Thomas, Horford and Brad Stevens means nothing but bad news for the rest of the NBA and the Eastern Conference as a whole.

NCAA Championship Game: Butler v Duke

(Photo by Andy Lyons/Getty Images)

The reason why I love this move so much is the clear indication that this guy has the passion to win and has commitment and loyalty to winning. This is a guy who left a fan base who LOVED him in Utah and decided to come to the best fan base in ALL of basketball  just so he could team up with his old college coach and buddy, Brad Stevens. This guys will to win with his former coach that he came within seconds and inches of winning a college title with is incredible and I cant wait to see him perform in Celtics green…..EXPECT BIG THINGS TO COME FROM HAYWARD AND EXPECT HIS CAREER AND HIS GAME TO BE TAKEN TO A WHOLE DIFFERENT LEVEL!

 

THE MINOR MOVES WITH POTENITAL MAJOR IMPACTS:

I wanted to briefly touch on the MINOR moves this Celtics team mad that could have a sneaky impact on the outcome of how this season plays out and how well this team performs. The moves that stood out for me that could have an impact off of our bench are Aron Baynes, Semi Ojeleye, Daniel Theis and possibly the biggest sleeper of them all, Guerschon Yabusele. Lets start with the Australian Bruiser, Aron Baynes. Baynes is a guy who immediately gives you rim protection on a team that has lacked since the days of Garnett and Perkins. Although Baynes doesn’t provide much offense he makes up for it with his size and presence in the paint and Celtics nation should be excited to see what he can bring to this team as sort of a unknown player coming into this upcoming season.

The other guy who could have a bright future and can offer a lot to this team is Guerschon. Yabusele is a guy that when drafted was relatively an unknown and somewhat of a mystery  but let me tell you, after watching this kid play some overseas ball and some games with the Maine Red Claws you can tell this kid can be a major contributor right away on both ends of the floor and has the build and style of play as a guy like Draymond Green who we all know is quite possibly one of the best 2-way players in the NBA not named Lebron or Kawai. Celtics fans need to get ready and be excited to watch this freak athlete hit the hardwood and do some damage for this team and to me could possibly be used as a Lebron type of stopper.

2016 NBA Draft

NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 23: . (Photo by Mike Stobe/Getty Images)

 

 FINAL OUTCOME AND PREDICITONS:

  So Celtics fans should be aware by now that this team is being built around the new NBA era and is creating a blue print for teams to follow on what kind of guys are taking over this league and that are big, athletic wing players who can play multiple positions and stretch the floor and help other guys get open.

It will be interesting to see how the new big 3 plays together and who will take over Avery’s spot on the floor whether it’s Jaylen, Marcus, or Tatum, someone will have to step up in a big way to fill that void. This year should be an exciting one and the year we dethrone Lebron and the Cavs.

PG: IT4

SG: JAYLEN BROWN

SF: GH20

PF- CROWDER

C- HORFORD

Bench rotation: Smart, Tatum, Morris, Baynes, Guerschon,

 

-OVERALL RECORD: 51-31

-1ST PLACE IN THE EAST

-LOSE THE FINALS IN 6 GAMES TO THE GOLDEN STATE WARRIORS

 

NOT FAMILIAR WITH NEW FACES ON THE CELTICS ROSTER? CHECK OUT THE TEAMS OFFICIAL PAGE TO LEARN SOME OF THE NEW FACES AND NAMES YOU CAN EXPECT TO SEE THIS UPCOMING SEASON @

WWW.CELTICS.COM

 

#GoGreen

     Boston Celtics v Cleveland Cavaliers - Game Four