Pena, Brawl, NHL - Friday Wrap-up

Pena Signs

The Detroit Tigers have re-signed first baseman Carlos Pena to a one year, $2,575,000 contract. Pena finished the season with a .995 fielding percentage, and a .241 batting average.

I can only imagine that his strength in fielding and his homerun totals got him this contract. I personally would like to see the Tigers some day replace Pena with a good first baseman that can also hit the ball consistently.

More Sought In Brawl

Police are searching for more people involved in the November 19 brawl at the Palace. Photographs of at least seven more people have been released. Gorcyca has decided not to pursue charges, instead opting to allow Auburn Hills police to fine them for violating a local ordenance.

Why can't we just let this rest? This is almost two months ago, and we're still debating on who started it, what fans are good and bad, what should be done, and how the fans of Detroit are these awful thugs waiting to brawl at every chance they get. The ones charged with assault and felonies are the ones that should be dealt with. I do not condone what the others did, but clearly this is being drug out way to long. I am also tired of the rederick and nonsense coming from the national media.

NHL Cancels Board Meeting

The NHL could be signalling the cancellation of the 2004-2005 season. They have sent word to the Board of Govenors that they have nothing new to talk about. Much speculation has been made that Bettman would seek permissions to cancel the season on January 14. The end is truely near.

More Memories From A Dismal Season

The Detroit Lions continue to gain honors, and recognition for the few things they did well this season. Kevin Jones was named Rookie of the Month of December after rushing for 626 yards, and four touchdowns. Eddie Drummond also received honors, being named to the NFL All-Pro Team.

After watching Kevin Jones at Virginia Tech in college -- and more so his senior year than others -- I felt he should have been on stage as a Heisman candidate along side of Chris Perry. Jones was a spectacular runningback in college, and is emerging as one of the great NFL runningbacks. Only Barry Sanders and Billy Sims -- as Lions -- recorded 1,000 yards in their rookie seasons. The 2005 NFL season should bring Jones 1200-1600 yards, and a chance at the Pro-Bowl.

Eddie Drummond was nothing but stellar on returns this season. Adding to his speed, one of the greatest abilities I see in him is his ability to cut from the middle of the field to the left and/or right very quickly, and evade tackles. Notable marks for Eddie are his two touchdown returns in one game, and his 161 return yards fourth quarter total. It is good to see him receive more honors, and he is more than deserving of these and more.

Hamilton Makes History

Hamilton Makes History

Richard Hamilton has set a new mark in the NBA. Hamilton is the first player in NBA history to lead the scoring for his team, and do so without a single field goal. What did rip have to say about this? "It was just one of those nights."

One of those nights all to common to the Pistons’ as their woes continued last night at the Palace against Memphis. The Grizzlies, behind new head coach Mike Fratello, extended their win streak to five, and beat the Pistons 101-79. The Pistons, again, continued to struggle on offense.

"I never thought I would have to coach effort," Pistons coach Larry Brown said. "I've never had to do that in my entire life, and this is the last group that I expected to have to do it with. Maybe a game like this will make us recognize how bad it is."

Let’s hope so. The Pistons have not shot the ball well this season, and last night shot only 31.3 percent. Memphis shot 50.6 percent behind Bonzi Wells’ team leading 23 points.

The Pistons head to Boston to face the Celtics tonight. I would expect a better effort against a lesser team. Newly acquired Anthony Goldwire, who scored 10 points last night, should see more playing time.

Mahorn Gets Shocked

The original Bad Boys have been reunited, this time as coaches. WNBA Detroit Shock head coach Bill Laimbeer has hired Rick Mahorn to be an assistant coach. Mahorn’s job will be focusing on defense.

"Coaching has always been something I've wanted to do," Mahorn said. "I've experienced a lot of things that can help other players."

Mahorn spent one year as a head coach of the CBA Grand Rapids team. He also spent some time in the NBA as an assistant coach.

Tigers Backup Pudge

The Detroit Tigers have traded minor leaguer Anderson Hernandez to the Mets for backup catcher Vance Wilson. In 67 games last season, Wilson hit .274 with four home runs, 21 RBIs, and three out 11 of 32 base stealers.

"Vance Wilson is a professional backup catcher," Tigers president Dave Dombrowski said. "He is one of the best in the business at his role in addition to being a quality individual in the clubhouse."

Pitchers and Catchers will report to spring training in Lakeland, FL on February 17. The rest of the team will report on February 21.

Robert 'Texas Bob' Smith Dies

Robert 'Texas Bob' Smith, Detroit's running back when they won the 1953 NFL championship, died Wednesday at the age of 74.

Smith leaves behind his wife, Betty Lu, and two sons.

Memorial services information, and more details, can be found at the link below.

Freep.com: Robert 'Texas Bob' Smith, RB on Lions 1953 title team, dies at 74

Turnovers Help MSU

Michigan State beat Penn State 84-58 last night. Penn State gave up 33 points in turnovers.

"There's the game," Penn State coach Ed DeChellis said. "We can't continue to turn the basketball over, and we continue to do it every night. We can't continue to give people 33 points off our turnovers."

Penn State had trouble with offensive rebounds -- something they lead the Big Ten in -- and only shot 39% from the field.

Michigan State shot 50%, and made 16-17 free throws. Anderson lead scoring with 17 points, followed by Brown with 16.

"We challenged them a bit because we weren't happy with the energy," Izzo said. "We've had more energy in practice the last four days than we had at the beginning of the game. But sometimes when you have long layoffs -- and that's what we're battling here, we've played so few games in so many days -- they're sick of practicing and sometimes they don't carry it over."

Michigan State is 9-2 on the season with six straight wins.

ESPN.com: Sluggish Spartans win sixth straight game

No Beltran In Detroit

The Detroit Tigers have missed out on another free agent. Carlos Beltran will not wear the old english D. Instead of being snubbed, the Tigers have opted to shy away from Beltran because of his high price tag. It is reported the starting bids are at, or above, seven years, $112 million.

"He's a player we like a great deal, as we've said all along, but where we are and what his situation is financially just doesn't mesh," Dombrowski said.

This is another let down for Tigers fans. The only real signing this off-season has been closing pitcher Troy Percival. Percival was brought to to add depth to the bullpen. Last year's closer, Urbina, will most like remain with the club as a setup man. It was believed that the Tigers would upgrade at third base and centerfield, but neither has happened.

Detroit's lack of desire to sign Beltran at such a high price should come as no surprise. The Tigers haven't seemed willing to pay $15-20 million per year for players in recent years, and now probably wouldn't be a good time to start. There are a lot of holes in the team, and there is a budget to abide by. What they save on this one player could be used for two others.

Beltran's agent, Scott Boras, said "The process is starting to move along," but does not see an imminent decision right now. Houston has a Saturday re-sign deadline, or they won't be able to sign him until May 1, something that won't happen. If he does not re-sign with Houston, I would expect Beltran to sign with (most likely) the Mets, or the Cubs.

Spring Training and TigerFest

Tigers tickets for the 2005 Spring Training schedule will go on sale Saturday at 10 AM.

MLB.com Tigers' 2005 Spring Training Schedule

TigerFest 2005 Tickets are on sale now. TigerFest will be at Joe Louis Arena on Saturday, January 22 from 11 AM to 5 PM.

MLB.com: TigerFest 2005

Michigan Upsets Iowa

Michigan traveled to Iowa last night to kick off Big Ten basketball for the season. Daniel Horton made his return, and helped lead the Wolverines to a 65-63 upset over the 15th ranked Hawkeyes.

Horton, who did not start the game, said "It felt good to get a big win on the road and to get back out there and play. It’s a good feeling right now for everybody."

Michigan started off the game strong, ending the first half with a 44-30 lead. Iowa staged a second half come back, but was only able to tie the game 59-59 with 1:51 left in the game. After that, Michigan pulled back ahead, and held on for the victory.

"I can't say enough about the toughness that our kids showed, especially down the stretch," said Michigan coach Tommy Amaker. Amaker has been downplaying the injury problem the team has recently faced. He said they were still capable of winning games against tough opponents.

He was right.

Iowa came into this game 12-1, ranked 15th in the nation. They have been shooting well all season, but struggled against Michigan’s defense, shooting just 37.3 percent from the field. "Obviously a frustrating way to start our Big Ten season," said Iowa coach Steve Alford. "It's my responsibility to make sure the team was ready, and they obviously weren't ready. I take full responsibility for that."

Iowa will remain a contender for the second spot in the Big Ten. Illinois will, without much doubt, take the Big Ten title this year, and have a legitimate shot at the NCAA title.

Michigan now has a chance to go into the Big Ten conference play, and make a run for a spot in the tournament. They’ve shown they can win against ranked teams, and do it on the road. Grabbing some early wins against Northwestern, Fairfield, and Indiana could give them the momentum needed to host Wisconsin, and put up a fight.

It all comes down to how well Horton plays and his affect on the team on the court. He must be a leader, and he must contribute to the shooting. Horton missed two free throws at the end of the game that could have padded their lead. The two misses could have also cost them the loss.

This will be looked upon as the game the Wolverines came to age. They’ve been building for three years to get back to the NCAA tournament, now could be their opportunity. If they can find ways to win games against Michigan State, Wisconsin, and play well against Illinois, we could see them third or fourth in the Big Ten at the end of the season.

Coleman Booted, Goldwire Signed

The Detroit Pistons have released Center Derrick Coleman. Coleman, a long time veteran, averaged just 1.8 points, three rebounds, and 10 mintues per game.

Coleman came to Detroit through a trade that sent Corliss Williamson to Philadelphia. The trade was made to clear salary cap room to re-sign Ben Wallace and Tayshaun Prince.

Detroit has signed guard Anthony Goldwire to a 10 day contract. The 33 year old guard has appeared in 231 NBA games, averaging 6.5 points, 2.9 assists, and 1.3 rebounds.

Seems to me that the Pistons are up to something. Trade rumors are swirling around Baron Davis of the Hornets. Billups, Hunter, and a draft pick for Davis? Maybe that's a bit too much, but its worth thinking about. Davis is averaging 19.5 points per game, 6.1 assists, and shoots 35% from the three point line. I still believe the Pistons would be better with a stronger Point Guard.

Vina Not Ready

Detroit Tigers second baseman Fernando Vina will not be ready for Sprint Training. Vina, bothered by patella tendinitis in his knee, chose rehab instead of surgery last summer. Vina was first injured running to first base on May 8, 2004. He returned a few days later, only to go on the disabled list shortly after.

Vina will be 36 years old when he returns. There is also no guaranty that he will return at this point. He also faces a potential shut-out from the starting lineup by Omar Infante. Infante did a fine job filling in. He batted .264 with 55 RBIs and 16 homeruns.

"We're not counting on him from a health standpoint," President and GM Dave Dombrowski said Tuesday. "In all likelihood ... I know he is not going to be ready [for the start of the season]." Dave Dombrowski declined to go into further details about Vina returning. Vina has one more year remaining on his contract, which the Tigers have insured.

Expect Omar Infante to make another case for him staying at second base. If he can post the same type of numbers as he did last year, he might find himself in a nice secure position for a while. The Tigers seem more focused on improving third base and the outfield. Omar could run away with second base if he hits well.

Smush Waived

Smush Parker has been waived by the Detroit Pistons.

I wrote about it today at detroitsports.blogspot.com:

Detroit Sports: Smush Sent Packing

Horton Close To Return

Daniel Horton says "I wouldn't count me out doing anything."

The Michigan point guard Daniel Horton is eying the Big Ten opener against Iowa as his return game. Coach Amaker is less optimistic, but the real test will be how Horton's knee handles running up and down the court.

Horton has been rehabilitating his knee for the past four weeks. Michigan has been plagued with injuries recently. Forward Graham Brown (hernia) and guard Dani Wohl (elbow) aren't expected to play Wednesday.

Freep.com: U-M's Horton says he may play against Iowa

Amaker Doesn't Want Pitty

Michigan basketball coach Tommy Amaker apparently doesn't want any pitty for his injury plagued team. Amaker held a press conference yesterday. You can hear it on MLive.com.

MLive.com: Amaker Press Conference

Kell Recovering

Hall of Famer, and former Tigers play and broadcaster George Kell was in a car crash December 28, 2004, which left him with a broken laft leg and left arm. The crash occurred in his home town Swifton, Ak.

"I heard he was doing better," said Swifton Mayor Charles Dukes, who said he last checked on his friend Monday. "He's a fine fellow, and we're very concerned about him."

Physical therapy will be needed after the bones heal.

Laimbeer's Not a Cav

Fomer Pistons Center, and current Shock coach Bill Laimbeer denied all reports that he has had talks with new Cavaliers owner Dan Gilbert.

Rumors had Laimbeer lobbying for a job with the organization have been denied on both sides. "I don't know what everyone's talking about," Laimbeer said. "It's beyond me why anyone would think that. They have people in place there who are very successful. It's a successful organization, and this is just stupid."

Laimbeer isn't going to replace Paul Silas. When I heard this I thought two things. It's not true, or Laimbeer is nuts. I wouldn't count Laimbeer out the day Larry Brown retires. Until then, he'll be in the WNBA.

Tigers Sign Martinez

Guess what? The Tigers signed someone. Roman Martinez, formerly of the Cubs, will be the new backup infielder for the Detroit Tigers. Martinez is a .268 career hitter. Jason Smith is expected to stay on as a utility man also.

Jack and Tram Staying Home

Jack Morris and Alan Trammell, again, did not get voted into the Hall of Fame. Only Ryne Sanberg and Wade Boggs got enough votes to make the trip this year.

Alan Trammell had a higher batting average than Ozzie Smith. He also had the same field percentage. He did not do a back-flip. He won Gold Gloves. He was the MVP of a World Series. He was an All-Star. Ozzie is in, and has been, and Tram is not.

Jack Morris has a career ERA of 3.90. It would be the highest ERA of all pitchers in the Hall. Unfortunately, the writers don’t also realize that he was a three time All-Star game starter, a 14 time ace, and was the winningest pitcher of his era.

The BBWAA is a farce. Each year, more and more of them say stupid things such as “It was his first year on the ballot” or “I wasn’t sure about his eating habits.”

Give me a break.

If someone is worthy of the Hall of Fame, vote them in. Do not make excuses, do not make it personal. Look at what they accomplished, and vote for them.

I am also appalled that Goose Gossage and Jim Rice weren’t voted in, but we’ll save that for another day.

I would like to personally thank Ken Rosenthal and Jim Caple for continuing to vote the right way. You are an example to all how the game of baseball should be viewed.

Lions Complete Another Season

The season has ended, and the latest chapter of the Detroit Lions history has been written. There were some good times, and a lot of bad times. It was another dismal season with obvious problems that must be addresses during of the off-season.

It all started on September 12, 2004. It was a day to remember, and was truly a great day for the Lions’ organization. The three year, 24 game consecutive road losing streak was finally over. The Lions had beaten the Chicago Bears 20-16, and, although the offense was not stellar, they played well enough to win, and gave some glimmer of hope for the coming season. Harrington threw 14 for 26, with a touchdown. Roy Williams caught four for 69 yards. It was a game to remember.

Week two brought some of the same hope. The Lions beat Houston – in Detroit – 28-16. Harrington completed 18 of 25 passes with three touchdowns, including two too rookie Roy Williams. Kevin Jones also started to emerge with 12 carries and 57 yards.

After that the team would never be the same.

Harrington finished the season with 12 interceptions, and 19 touchdowns. Both career bests for the third year QB. Even at that, Harrington was subject to much criticism. He often threw interceptions when they could have been avoided, and had a habit of throwing high and behind the receivers. If we went back and took away the interceptions into blatant heavy coverage, he might have been in single digits, impressing us all.

Harrington’s problems can be somewhat simple to diagnose. He doesn’t see the field, he throws high, and he throws behind receivers. He doesn’t have a lot of mobility, and sometimes appears rushed in his throws. His biggest enemy is his fixation on one receiver at a time. It makes the offense predictable, and interceptions more frequent.

Harrington isn’t the total blame for the offense. Bad, and sometimes too conservative, play calling also was a factor. Whether it was from Sherman Lewis, Steve Mariucci, or a compensation for a not-so-good Joey, something needs to be addressed next season. Too many times did I see Kevin Jones run for nine yards, giving the Lions second and one, only to see them pass the ball incomplete twice, and have to punt or kick a field goal. Why not try and run the ball one more time? Why not pound the ball into first down territory? Were they too conservative? It’s hard to say really. One could argue they were too liberal with the passing, or they were just predictably set into a pattern.

Eddie Drummond was the catalyst for the offense for the mid part of the season. He ran back touchdowns, he put them into great field position, then one game he went down wrong, and broke his shoulder blade. Reggie Swinton stepped in and did a reasonably decent job, but the impact was still there. No more touchdowns, no more 50 yard return average games.

It’s time for the team to evaluate some of its positions. Quarterback, Wide Receiver, and Tight End.

Joey Harrington completed his third year – his best year – and failed to reach the level expected. He has no one to challenge him for his job, and push him to the next level. Is he capable of going to the next level? I don’t know, but we need something to push him. A veteran QB must be signed this off-season. Jon Kitna would be my recommendation. He’s proven he can win, and comes from an offensive system similar to the Lions’ system, and would fit into the salary cap.

Roy Williams proved he could be an NFL receiver this season. Although inconsistent, he did battle injury, and was often in heavy coverage. Az Hakim continued to drop balls. Do we really have to sit threw another season of Hakim? Most likely we do, and Charles Rogers will be the other receiver.

Speaking of Rogers, why is everyone so disappointed he’s out? We haven’t benefited from him in two seasons, and haven’t lost anything as a result. I think the main reason is his replacement was Tai Streets. Not that I think Rogers would have been an amazing receiver, but Streets hasn’t really been a strong factor in a long time. Rogers has potential, Streets has a record.

Speaking of not being a factor, did anyone notice Stephen Alexander was on the field? Who? The Lions’ TE, you know that guy we often we saw run short routes, then either drop the ball, or get ignored. I realize that the TE position doesn’t have the deepest pool of players in the NFL, but let’s get real. They need to find someone who can make a play now and then, and maybe even reach the end zone. Maybe they should consider drafting Massaquoi. Can’t be any worse. I’m sure he’ll be available in the later rounds.

Speaking of the offense, Sherman Lewis has left the building. After 22 seasons of coaching, Lewis is retiring. I don’t think this is a case of being forced out, or fired. He just wants to retire. His NFL career spans 37 years total, and he really has nothing left to accomplish. He was a good coach, saw the playoffs 15 times, and saw the Superbowl four times. He will be missed, and is to be commended on a fine career.

We haven’t talked about the defense yet. Here’s a summary for you. Shaun Rogers signed a six year, $46 million contract to remain a Detroit Lion. That about says it all for the force behind the defense. They played well this year, and I would imagine will only improve next year. Dick Jauron did a great job coordinating these guys. I even used them in my fantasy league a couple times.

All is not lost. Next season we could see an 8-8 Detroit Lions team. The schedule will be crucial to accomplishing this, but if they can add another receiver, and bring in a veteran QB to either take the job or push Joey to the next level, they can accomplish this. Nick Harris was signed to a long extension, and Hanson won’t be going anywhere. Kicking is good, defense is good, now we just need an offense.

Who knows, maybe in 2007 they can win 10 games and make the playoffs.

No Roses For Michigan

Monday morning is finally here, and I’m still in shock. What looked like an enjoying game turned into a nightmare. A feeling that rocked the start of 2004 has rocked 2005.

Michigan lost another Rose Bowl.

As the final seconds ticked down on the game clock, and the ball flew thru the uprights, I couldn’t help but holler “Fire that bum coach!” and “I hope he doesn’t get drafted”. At one point I remember wishing bodily harm upon half of Texas.

It was a Rose Bowl to remember, with an ending to be forgotten. Texas made their first trip to Pasadena to take first shot at a BCS win. Michigan made their 19th appearance, and marked a third notch in their BCS belt. Much anticipation had been made about two storied programs. The game lived up to expectations, and entertained us throughout, until the last kick of course.

The game started out pretty much as expected. Both teams were pressuring, and they went back and forth for a while. Texas struck first with a short TD run by their QB, Vince Young. Young finished the game with 192 yards rushing, 180 yards passing, four rushing touchdowns, and one passing touch down.

The key to this game was stopping the run. They did a great job with Cedric Benson, who was held to 23 carries for 72 yards, but failed to stop Young from running wild. Michigan failed to show any ability to play this type of defense. They looked afraid to challenge him.

I spent the last 40 or so hours trying to heal myself, and think of the positives from this game. Rivas was flawless on kicking. Edwards made all his catches when he needed too, and Breaston setup great field position. Freshman duo Hart and Henne looked good also. Hart helped move the ball a bit, and Henne completed 18 of 34 with four touchdowns.

Instead of talking about all the things that could have happened, there are a lot of positive things to talk about for next season. Henne and Hart will have one year under their belt. Both should be looked at in a Heisman kind of way.

There are two losses that will impact this team. Braylon Edwards and David Baas.

Edwards has been the team’s top receiver for the past couple seasons. He’s a unique player that has ability to grab catches that most couldn’t.

Baas is the heart and soul of the defense. He’s not only a great player, he’s a leader, and sets the tone. He keeps that line tightened up well, and motivates everyone around him to do the same.

We should also not forget guys like Dudley, who is the master of blocking for Hart, Massaquoi, Curry, and Watson.

So what will the season be like next year for the Wolverines? Will they be able to run the table? Can they find a receiver to take the place of Edwards? RB and QB are set for two more seasons, but what about TE?

Many questions will have many answers in the spring and summer. Expectations will be high for Coach Carr and his staff. Twice in a row he’s gone to the Rose Bowl, twice in a row he’s lost. I wouldn’t expect the pressure of his dismissal to be issued, but I wouldn’t expect him not to hear about the loss either.

The schedule next year dictates 11-0. They play three soft games in pre-conference. The Big Ten looks to be weak again next season, so they should really only have to be real concerned about Ohio State.

Disappointment is the word to ring in the New Year. What could have been, wasn’t. Losses to Notre Dame and Ohio State just don’t seem right. Anything other than 11-0 next year will be considered a disaster.