How can I top 2008?

Hope you all had a great holiday and Happy 2009 to everyone! What an amazing year. Winning a GOLD medal in the Olympics and getting engaged. How do I top that? Two of the things that I love most in life were very good to me this year. I couldn’t ask for anything more. I am so thankful for my health, happiness and for my family and friends. Love you all. 

What lies ahead? A busy year of soccer. The victory tour ended with a 1-0 win over China in Detroit. The 2009 season begins January 20th in LA with a training camp followed by 18 players being selected for the Algarve Cup in March. Directly from Portugal we all depart to our new cities for pre-season for the new league. The beginning of the new Women’s Professional Soccer league begins in April. It is going to be awesome. I am really excited to be playing in Boston for the Breakers. More to come on that….

Back in Philly, I am in awe that the Eagles made it to the playoffs under all the circumstances. Crazy how it all happened and can’t wait to see what the outcome will be in the end. As I root for my Eagles, I also look forward to attending the National Championship game to cheer on my Gators next week! That’s all I have for now. Will promise to be a better blogger in 2009.

Ciao. -Heather Read More » | Write a Comment »

Colts vs. Chargers
As I went back to look at the tape from the first matchup, it was very interesting what the Chargers were doing. One thing that has been very consistent for teams that play a 3-4 is they game plan a lot of movement with their LB and secondary.  The reason a 3-4 gives you more flexibility is that you have one more LB on the field, and he is also another person that stands up, so what teams like the Chargers, Steelers and Patriots do to Peyton Manning is the LBs and DBs are always moving, they start on the right side, move to the left or lineup 5 yards off then move up to the line of scrimmage. And they have to do this while Peyton is making his calls and they must time it right so that they are ready to get to the place they must be. Here is what it does to this offense, it can and has created indecision in pass protection - the offensive line will see one thing, the backs will see another and the result is Peyton gets hit, hurried or sacked.  Because this has been a common theme, Peyton tends to play a little faster in these games and he was doing that in the first matchup. In fact, he missed Reggie Wayne on a stutter go that was wide open because he left a little early because he had been pressured early in the game and he felt like it was coming again or he didn’t trust his pass protection and therefore took his eyes off Wayne.  Now, later on Peyton settled down and the Colts made some route adjustments like pick routes because the Chargers were playing a lot of man when they pressured Manning.

Here is the bottom line, I feel the Chargers have to do the same to Peyton if not more, it’s the only shot you have of beating him because he is too accurate throwing the ball when defenses play base coverages and he gets a good pre snap read.  As you watch this game, watch how much movement there will be from the Chargers defense when the Colts have the ball.

Chargers O vs. Colts D
Remember Bob  Sanders did not play in this game, and the reason I mention that is because I believe he is worth 4 big plays a game. With that said, it was interesting how the Chargers attacked the Colts, anytime they could get the Colts into their cover 2 buck scheme they run so well, they would run seam routes for big plays, also last year they would run screens to it using Darren Sproles who also made big plays. One of the key reasons the seam route would work is they would get a WR running down the middle on the LB and that is a speed mismatch, and the screen worked so well because they made it look like seams again, so everyone was trying to get deep and then they would dump it off to Sproles, and he is so quick and fast that no one could get a hand on him.  The Colts D attacked early in the last matchup with blitzes and man-to-man. Rivers hit a big play down the sideline and it kind of took the Colts aggressiveness away.  I think in this next matchup the Colts have to stay with the pressure longer, because the pressure was also very effective against the run, in fact the Chargers had to go to more draws and delay like runs to get LT going.

Ravens vs. Dolphins
The Ravens D is one of the most unpredictable in football. The reason is their defensive coordinator has no tendencies other than to be unpredictable, if that can be a tendency?  Anyway, I’m watching the tape, and in the middle of the second quarter on a 1^st and 10, the Ravens have 5 LB 3 D lineman and 3 DB on the field, why?  Well the Dolphins go to their wild cat formation and run a sweep for about 4 yards. The next play, the Ravens have 5 LB 3 DL 3 DB again and the Dolphins run the wild cat again, but this time the Ravens take the extra LB and blitz him right in the A gap, that’s right between the center and guard, just as Ricky Williams goes in motion. The penetration blows the play up for about a one-yard gain. Next play, Dolphins have 2 backs, 2 TE and 1 WR on third and 3 and the Ravens put 7 DB 3 LB 1 DL on the field and blitz it with what ends up being really just three guys coming, and Terrell Suggs intercepts Pennington and returns it for a TD.  The point is this, you never know what Rex Ryan will put on the field and you have no idea what he will do with them.  In this one, if the Dolphins can have a plan of attack for personnel groups like this and when they have all those DBs on the field, regardless of the down or distance, if they could check to a run, or when all those linebackers are on the field check to a pass. This game will be very interesting especially when the Dolphins offense is on the field. Read More » | Write a Comment »

by Allison B. Hudson, The Donaldsonville Chief

Capitol Bar and Grill Restaurant, located in Donaldsonville’s historic district, is the newest edition on the block. Owner Jarvis Green of the New England Patriots and his family celebrated the grand opening and ribbon cutting ceremony, Friday, September 24.  The word has spread quickly that something interesting is happening here.

Friday was filled with lots of fun and entertainment. The wait staff supplied several signature dishes and mixed drinks for all invited guests.

The restaurant was housed with many special guests including: New Orleans Saints players Skyler Green and Randall Gay, Seattle Seahawk Howard Green, NY Giant Corey Webster, and many others.

The Capitol has been converted into a cozy and relaxing sports-related environment. Enjoy the tantalizing southern recipes, the mixed drinks, the wine tasting area, and the pool table area. Not only is the Capitol a place to catch the latest news on sports, or to simply enjoy the afternoon game, but one can also enjoy a fine dinner with a significant other with relaxing sensual music that surrounds the restaurant.

The Capitol is designed to feel like a neighborhood kind of place, but in an urban setting.

What makes this restaurant different from others is the level of ingenuity and innovation behind what seems to be simple preparations. The Capitol is the first of its kind in Donaldsonville, with hopes of expanding in the future.

While the restaurant is targeted to a broad spectrum of patrons including business people and blue collar workers, you are likely to find young people, old people, white collars, blue collars, construction workers, guys and girls altogether, all enjoying a fresh, value priced quick service meal with various entertainment. Designed with a sports bar dor reminiscent of the restaurants one will find in bigger cities, The Capitol starts each day with completely fresh handmade dishes to delight its guests.

Click here to check out more information about the restaurant: http://www.myspace.com/the_capitol_circa_1830 Read More » | (2) Comments »

Willie Parker, LaMarr Woodley and Dennis Dixon will host a toy drive for Children’s Hospital at The Mall at Robinson in Pittsburgh, Tuesday, Dec. 9 from 6-8 p.m. Be sure to come out and donate a toy for the kids!

One autographed item per person. New, unwrapped toys; no stuffed animals please.

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DANA POINT, Calif. (AP) - Looking ahead to the possibility of an Obama administration, some baseball agents already are thinking about trying to beat a possible tax increase for their well-paid clients.

Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama has proposed increasing the top federal income tax rate from 35 percent to 39.6 percent, where it was under the Clinton administration. If signing bonuses are paid before Jan. 1, they likely would be taxed at the current rate and would not be subject to any tax increase.

“It’s something we’ll consider,” agent Craig Landis said Tuesday at the general managers’ meetings. “Besides the federal issue, we have a state issue in some cases, anyway, where it’s advantageous to take signing bonuses because of the state income tax. A Florida resident can take the signing bonus and not have to pay his team’s state tax.”

Obama’s proposal would increase federal income tax on families earning more than $250,000 annually, money that would help finance a decrease for workers and families earning less than $200,000 annually.

Next year’s major league minimum is $400,000. Agent Scott Boras, negotiating eight- and possibly nine-figure deals for free agents Manny Ramirez and Mark Teixeira, already has thought about the possibility of asking for larger signing bonuses payable this year in some of his contracts.

“There’s some consideration to be had with the impact of the election,” he said.

Free agents can’t start negotiating money with all teams until Nov. 14. Only a relatively small percentage of contracts are finalized before Jan. 1.

Still, for a big-money free agent earning $10 million in 2009, Obama’s plan could increase his federal tax by more than $400,000.

“There’s some consideration to be had with the impact of the election,” said Paul Kinzer, who represents free-agent closer Francisco Rodriguez.

With the general election Tuesday, many of the GMs said they had voted by absentee ballot. New York Mets general manager Omar Minaya said he could predict whether his counterparts supported Democrats or Republicans.

“I’m working out, I’m at the gym, I’m looking around, everyone’s watching TV,” he said. “And you can tell: A guy would be on the Fox channel, somebody would get off (the machine), and the other guy would just switch right to CNN. Or somebody would be on CNN, and the other guy would go like, OK, ‘I’m not watching this stuff.’”

Minaya, who worked for the Texas Rangers when George W. Bush was controlling owner, said some of the GMs also turned to MSNBC.

Agents generally had thought about the possibility of a tax increase more than the GMs. Many of the club representatives said they likely wouldn’t be able to determine until after Nov. 14 whether beating a tax hike was a trend.

“It’s not off the wall,” said Andrew Friedman, executive vice president for baseball operations of the AL champion Tampa Bay Rays. “We’d certainly be open-minded to it depending on what the rest of the terms of the deal are.” Read More » | (1) Comment »

Prolebrity recently visited Milwaukee Brewers pitcher Jeff Suppan at his new restaurant, Soup’s Grill, in Woodland Hills, Calif. Click below to play the video:

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This week was as short week for us. We played San Diego on Sunday and then had to immediately get prepared to play the Bengals on Thursday. I’m kind of glad that we didn’t have too much time between games because it allowed us to not have to pay attention to what everyone was saying about our controversial win against the Chargers. A win is a win and that is all that matters so lets move on.

On to the Bengals, we knew they had a lot of injuries coming into Thursday’s game particularly on their offensive line. They also were going to be without Chad Johnson. Those key loses and the upcoming bad weather were definitely going to make this game interesting. 

We felt like as a team we could go out there and get a lot of sacks like when we played them the first time but the Bengals had a different strategy this time. The quarterback went with a 3 second drop instead of holding on to the ball for longer so it wasn’t as easy to get to him. We did manage to sack him but we only got one. Even though we weren’t able to rack up a lot of sacks we did put a lot of pressure on the quarterback, shut down their running game, held them to a lot of three and outs, and were able to give our offense good field position. 

We are now getting ready for the upcoming game at the New England Patriots on Nov. 30th. That is going to be a great game can’t wait. 

In addition I have my annual Holiday Toy Drive coming up on December 9th at The Mall of Robinson. If you are interested in going there is information on it in the Calendar section of my website so go check it out! Read More » | (1) Comment »

Hi Everyone! After the last three games which we won 2 and tied 0-0 in Cincy, we are focusing on China for the next set. After the final game in Tampa, I hung around for a extra day with my old University of Florida and National Teammate, Danielle Fotopolos….love that girl. She just gave birth to her third man child, Michael, who is adorable. So it was a great ending to the trip. Then I headed back home to Cincinnati for the week to hang with the fam and friends. It was a busy week. Running here and there spending time with Mom and Dad who are divorced and trying to see the rest of the family.

Wednesday, my High School, Saint Ursula Academy, held a pep rally in honor of the soccer team who just won state for the second year in a row and for my Olympic gold. It was great and as always made me a little emotional. I guess when my life everyday revolves around playing and winning a World Cup and Olympics, sometimes you don’t realize the impact you make and aren’t able to enjoy the success of it all. In the Olympics, every athlete over there has trained and dreamt of that opportunity. You don’t really sit back and think about all the hard work you put in to being there and for me coming back from my injury, it was amazing that I was even on the team much less winning another gold medal. Pretty surreal.

The rest of the week, was spent in meetings as I have a new company helping run my camps. For the first four years I tried to do alot of it with the help of a soccer family and friends, the Byrnsides. I am very happy with the way it went but the new Women’s Professional Soccer League starting up complicates things so Procamps is taking over. The meetings were great as they have a ton of connections in the Cincinnati area and we are looking for sponsorship help to expand.

I am pretty excited since we decided to add a new component which is really special to me. With sponsorship dollars we are hoping to have a large amount of underprivledged kids attend the camp. Soccer is a great outlet and can lead to college scholarships and a bright future, so I am happy to be bringing this to the area for the first time. Just to be able to brighten their day or give them hope is exciting for all of us.

Friday, I was able to catch up with the girls and Saturday Aj came into town and we went to dinner with the family. Sunday the Cincinnati Bengals honored me at the beginning of the game and took amazing care of me and my family. We had a great time and were witness to one of the craziest games in NFL history, ending in a 13-13 tie. I am still in awe, like Donovan McNabb, that a game could end like that. Its like the BCS. They should keep playing OTs til you get a winner in the NFL and there should be a play-off system in CFB. That’s my two cents. I headed from Cincy to Philly for a night then to Baltimore to shoot another UA commercial. I took the train home and was on a flight the next day. After a short little trip to Orlando to see my best friends Angie and Sarah from UF, I am back in Philly finally!

This traveling thing is really getting old. Its only for a short time as I head to Boston Dec 4-6 with the Boston Breakers. If I have time, I suppose I will fit some apartment hunting in. Monday Dec 8 we head to LA to prepare for the last 3 games of the tour against China. Dec 8 and 13th we play at the Home Depot Center at 6pm before we travel to Detroit. There we play Dec 17th at 7pm at Ford Field. Thank goodness its inside, that’s all I have to say!!!! Hope to see you there. Talk soon. Read More » | (3) Comments »

Giants O
One way to tell what an NFL team thinks of another team is by personnel. Here is what I mean, defenses line up with either a 3-4 look (3 defensive linemen and 4 linebackers) or they play a 4-3 (4 defensive lineman and 3 linebackers). Well if you have been following the Giants, you know one thing is for sure, when you watch their offense, they can run the ball with power. So I plug in the tape of the Ravens D — which by the way, is one of the best in football, especially against the run — and what do I see? A 4-4 set or 5-3 set depending on how you want to treat Terrell Suggs their LB/DL. They had 4 defensive linemen and 4 linebackers on the field, and only 3 defensive backs, not the normal 4. That tells you all you need to know about how good the Giants’ offensive is and their running game, it commands that kind of respect from one of the league’s best defenses. And here is what is scary, the Giants still rushed for over 200 yards. This is not a good matchup for the Cardinals D.

Dolphins vs. Patriots Re-match
Remember the first matchup? The Dolphins dropped the wild cat formation on the Patriots and torched their defense. Well, this week on our State Farm NFL Matchup show at 7:30 Sunday morning on ESPN, I will breakdown the formation and what its purpose really is. The wild cat formation is just a different way to get to one of three runs that almost everyone runs in the NF L: 1) the strong side zone play 2) the power play, which is what I will breakdown Sunday 3) the weak side counter trap. Well the sweep motion by Ricky Williams and Ronnie Brown as the QB makes it look much more complicated than it really is, but when executed right and with the speed of the Dolphins, it can take you off guard like it did the Patriots. I expect the Patriots to be much better prepared this time. The only concern I would have for the Patriots is the Dolphins will have other wrinkles of the things they did so well the first time.

Colts O
Look out this team may be the scariest team in football. Why? Because their offensive line is mauling people. They destroyed the Texans D line. In fact, there were about a dozen times the Colts’ offensive line moved the Texans’ defensive line 3 yards off the ball, I can tell you from experience, if you get that kind of movement, running backs will have a great day and many more to come.

Falcons vs. Panthers Re-match
Matt Ryan had only been starting about a month when he played the Panthers the first time and one thing that usually takes a QB a while to use is the cadence. Young QBs have so much going through their minds that the last thing they think of is changing up the snap count and how to hold defenses. Well Carolina really used that to their advantage and timed a lot of LB run throughs to disrupt the Falcons’ run game and it worked. This time around, Matt will be much better with that and it should help them run the ball against a Panther D that has gotten better as well.

Carolina O
It’s hard to say another team runs the ball as good as the Giants, but the Panthers are very close. With Williams and Stewart and an offensive line that gets better every week, they are a close, 1A to the Giants. This team has turned its season around because of the running game and they win games because of it. As I study both Stewart and Williams, they are the second best one-two punch in football behind the Giants that technically have a one, two three punch. In fact, there are 6 teams that I feel have a great one-two punch and they in this order starting with the best: Giant, Panthers, Titans, Dolphins, Falcons and Jags.

Steeler O
Ben looked a little better this week, especially in the fourth quarter when the game got tight. And to be honest, one of the biggest factors if you’re going to be a great QB in this league, is can you make big-time throws late in the game and he did. I thought the Steelers O line played much better but one thing this team really lacks is a physical running attack! In fact, I would like to see Gary Russell get a few more carries because he brings that physicality the Steelers are missing.

Jets O vs. Titans D
I thought the Jets had about as much balance to their off ense as I have seen this year and they will need it against the Titans. But here is where I think this game comes down to: the Jets offensive left tackle D’Brickashaw Ferguson against the Titans D line. Now the reason I say D line is because they will put Albert Haynesworth over there or Dave Ball, the defensive end filling in for Kyle Vanden Bosch. The Jets will be forced to help him by either putting a TE over there or by using a back at times. The problem with doing this is it hurts the formations you can run and the players you can get out, because you have to give him help. Now there will be times he will just have to get it done, you just hope he can and the Titans don’t make the defensive play on him that ends up being the difference in the game.

For more NFL analysis, check out my Web site: MerrilHoge.com Read More » | Write a Comment »

The NFL is a gi-normous (tell Webster’s I made it up) business.  I always knew that once you made big money in the league, the team owners, through their cap managers, were trying to figure out how to justify paying a guy 7 million dollars a year (by winning) or how to get that money back from him (by making him a cap casualty, eventually cutting him and not paying him).  So it was no surprise to me what I was facing when I had my deposition for my worker’s compensation case against my former teams just a couple of days ago.

Imagine sitting in a room with nothing but lawyers. For two hours I talked about a wide range of personal matters such as “Do you like to dance?”, “Do you have stairs in your house?”, “Do you drink alcohol?”.  These questions sound more pertinent if I were meeting a lady from Match.com, not questions from some billion dollar owner, connected to a multi-billion dollar league and industry.  The deposition was to take my side of the story in regards to all the injuries I have incurred– how many practices and games I missed, and the physical, mental, emotional, neurological, etc. issues I have faced. (not to mention ones I am currently facing, or will face in the future) What comes from this meeting is a lump sum payment (nothing in comparison to what you made while playing the game) or insurance benefits, which can include lifetime medical coverage, which is huge!  You don’t have to imagine much to know we are not on insurance carrier’s wish list once we retire from the game.  (Would you insure a salvaged, beat up hooptie?)

For ten years of service and four surgeries, which include my back ( I may need that in life, you think?) my abdominal wall (aha…that’s why I don’t have a six pack), my shoulder (I never could do the dance “raise the roof”), and foot (see….there’s a reason for that  pimp walk), you would think the process would be smoother and much more compassionate.

Oh no, never that!  So after four combined grueling hours (even the court reporter was agitated and was pressing those buttons pretty hard), I felt I had told everyone in the room of every band aid I had ever used, how many sips of Nyquil I had the night before a game because those ambien pills just stopped working, and how many anti-biotic/pain-killing shots I took in the butt cheeks just to make 80,000 scream on Sundays while depositing thousands on Tuesday’s into Bank of America.

Was it worth it?  I don’t know that answer right now.  Of course, I would say yes in this moment, while I compare my football career to my second career choices coming out of college.  But I was gruesomely reminded in that law office that true payback is still awaiting me, financially and physically!

In the slightest form, I was treated eerily similar to how I imagine war vets are treated in this country.  Thanks for your service…here’s your flag (and in my case trophies), and now beat it buddy!  On to the next bull in the herd!  Mike Ditka is right, we need to take better care of the retired legends of the game.  But, who am I to complain?  I ran, jumped, soared at the highest level of athletics for ten years…so, who cares if I can walk in ten!

-Dat Dude Read More » | (5) Comments »

Bears O
Last year the Chicago Bears started to really think of Devin Hester as a WR, and as I study him this year, he is gradually become a very good WR and could end up being the Bears best WR. Catching the ball for him is natural, that is one thing I really look for in WR and RB, do they naturally catch it or do they fight it? Devin never fights catching the ball and he is starting to become a very good route runner. I’m also impressed with Matt Forte. When I studied him in college, I wasn’t sure about how he would run between the tackles, could he make the tough runs or would that wear him down? So far, I like what I see. The one thing I knew for sure, he had excellent feet and could make people miss and create when things were not there. With Kyle Orton also starting to play at a consistently high level, this offense has threats everywhere.

Steelers O
I did not even need to read in the injury report to know that Willie Parker was hurt. When I put in the tape of the Steelers vs. Bengals, I knew on his very first carry that he was wounded. I could also tell it was his left leg, so I did look it up to see what was goi ng on, and sure enough he has swelling on his knee. Well here is what that does, and I speak from experience, it knocks down your speed and quickness. So runs Willie used to make to the perimeter, gone. The hole that is there for a second and he gets 10, gone. You also lose your power and end up taking on more abuse because you can’t run with a physical style.

Falcons O
One offense does more, and has more and is better than the Falcons, the Giants, but after that, you can forget it. The running game has so much misdirection and so many little wrinkles that it forces your front seven to have an almost perfect day. Matt Ryan looked like a veteran against the Panthers. And the times he impressed me the most were when people were around him. Instead of running out of the pocket, he would just slide, buy some time and sling the rock. He also made big throws late in the game when it counted the most. He is the next great QB in our league. I know I have said that before, but he is getting there faster than I think the Falcons thought he could.

Jets D
The front 7 of the Jets just destroyed the Titans offensive line. The Titans O line seldom gets beat like they did Sunday, but I will tell you, I put in the tape and when the Titans snapped the ball, the Jets D line and LBs were on the other side of the line of scrimmage before Kerry Collins could hand the ball off. One thing that is so unfair to this defense is that they play their first-round pick, number 56 Vernon Gholston. Coming out of Ohio State, when I studied him a bunch of things stood out: He did not move very well in transition, and what I mean by that is he had no quickness. He really did not make many plays unless someone ran into him, and one thing that really stood out is he did not have great instincts and awareness to get to the football. Well when the Jets put him in the game, it’s like 10 on 11 right now. The one thing I can say is the Steelers Troy Polamalu looked just awful his first year and when his second year rolled around it was like holy cow, what happened! And now Polamalu is the most dynamic defensive players in the league, so there is hope for Vernon.

Steelers D
I love watching this defense, the reason is they are so aggressive and they are constantly doing different things each and every week. This week they had Troy Polamalu switch with outside LB James Harrison and play LB early in the game and he was in the backfield quicker than a cat and making plays.

For more NFL analysis check out my Web site: MerrilHoge.com Read More » | Write a Comment »

Hi Friends,

I’m writing this as I’m sitting on the floor in Hong Kong International Airport (only power outlet I could find).  I just spent an amazing week in Hong Kong with my girlfriend- hanging out with my sister, Stef, and her boyfriend Will.

As ‘Popeye’ commented on my last blog, it really is an amazing place. So much to do, we barely sat down. I have to give it to them, their transit system is unreal, you can get from one corner of the city to the other in minutes. (ha, i should work for their tourism department!)  I know we don’t have the same population in Seattle, but it would be great to get downtown on public transit in minutes, not have to worry about parking or traffic and every other hassle of driving!

Before I get off the Hong Kong subject, I have to fill you all in on my excess baggage penalty, which pissed me off so much. I got charged 500 US dollars for having excess baggage on Virgin Atlantic. I kinda hope this throws them under the bus a little bit! How can you justify charging a customer that amount of money, after they spent over 2K on a ticket? I have flown every other international airline and not once have they charged me for being over, and if you think about it, I’m never going to Fly Virgin Atlantic ever again, so basically, they made $500 off me but missed out on a 2000 dollar fare next time I choose an airline!

OK, I, just wanted to publicly get that off my chest, as I sit here thinking of a scheme to get my money back!

So I am making my way back to Oz finally after such a roller coaster season, ready to get amongst some warm weather and surf, hang out with my family and friends and get my head ready for 2009! I must admit though, I am missing my new ‘home’, I just bought a house as some of you mentioned you read about and I hadn’t had a chance to enjoy it!

I guess as I check the weather in Seattle I think I can be away from there right now. So thanks to all of you who came to meet me at DJ’s a couple weeks ago, I had a blast, and had some great conversations. Plus DJ and the guys at DJ’s Sportscards were great people and run a great thing there in Renton. Good to be apart of that, and put a face to some of my favourite comments.

Well my flight to Sydney is boarding so I better pack up the computer and get on there! The check-in guy probably gave me a seat in the luggage compartment for being a hassle after my blow up about the bags! Ah well, whatever gets me home!

I’ll keep in touch while I’m back home!

Also I have answered some of your questions below.

- RRS

Texas Jill, I’m not sure if I’m going to be playing the WBC, it all depends on how I feel when I start to throw again. If all’s good, and Australia puts together a good group of guys, and I’m invited, I would love to be a part of it. I will have to talk Balfour into it as well!

Chris from Bothell, it’s hard to go into detail about my workouts but some things I have found really helpful in my offseason workouts are sprint training and boxing. As soon as the season ended I was straight into East Side MMA’ in Renton and got into the boxing. I love it and it gets me in really good shape. They have a great gym there with everything and Joe, the owner would put me through hell!  You should get down there and check it out!  As I start to get in the sports specifics, the sprint training is great because it relates exactly to the power movements in pitching. One of these days I will go into detail with some good workouts but for now those two things can really help you.

K.Smith - I’m sure this is the same K. Smith that was at DJ’s? Well, glove companies are pretty good about giving you what you need as far as new gloves! Guys normally get 2 or 3 in spring training, I normally stick with 1 glove until I have a string of bad outings then I try and go for the new one sitting in my locker. It’s silly but it seems to get me back on track, I hope!

Big Al, I haven’t had a chance to meet Jack yet but from what I have heard sounds like he is a positive thing for us and our furture! And thanks for the explanations!

Kellie, as far as the guys in the AFL, I know Rob very well, he is a good friend of mine, he caught me in AAA and caught me in Seattle (against the Yankees ). He is one of the hardest workers I have ever met, and is going to be a great catcher. I also know Stephen Kahn quite well.  We lived together in 2006 AFL, funny dude, and really sucked he missed this year with his knee. You will see more of him soon.

I’ll check in soon! gotta run … gonna be long flight amongst suitcases! Read More » | (25) Comments »

What a whirlwind!  We won it pretty convincingly and with a full team effort, which was the case all season.  Very fitting.  

Now that it’s over, the idea that we won the World Series is starting to set in a little more.  From a personal standpoint, my family and friends can’t help but mention it here and there out of the same type of disbelief that I walked around with … ESPECIALLY after that parade!  I look at one of our other bloggers, Heather Mitts, and wonder if she has the same type of “delayed set in” that I’m experiencing … though her trophy case is a bit more impressive than mine right now!  She’s familiar with Philadelphia and probably has a good idea of how insane that city can be in regards to its sports teams. 

The Parade:  The parade was hard to wrap my brain around.  It wasn’t just the massive amount of people, (2 million) but the heartfelt “Thank You” written on every person’s face.  It crossed generations and working classes.  The police and fire department men and women seemed to walk just a little bit taller and prouder, even in the midst of the 2 million fans.  We wouldn’t have been able to float down Broad Street had it not been for those officers directing traffic and crowds.  I have home video and hundreds of pictures … and it does it some justice, but the SOUND!  I was on the same float with both Cole Hamels and Ryan Howard.  Cole was the NLCS and World Series MVP.  Ryan Howard is in the running for the NL MVP.  So, I heard the chants M-V-P, M-V-P, M-V-P!!!  All day … four and half hours of fans letting those two players know how crazy they were about what they’d done in 2008.  Wow 

From a business standpoint, ShowcaseU.com has gotten more attention in the last couple weeks.  I don’t want it to be that way … really, I don’t, but using that little bit of PROLEBRITY afterglow is an advantage and I won’t say no to the business benefiting from it.  I don’t mind flying under the radar, but if my foot getting in a couple extra doors because I played on a World Championship team, it will ultimately help the student-athletes and their families in the long run.  That’s what the idea has been all along at ShowcaseU.com.  

So, I packed my locker a couple days after the parade, had the guts of my locker sent home and watched my 15-month-old little boy run circles around our clubhouse!  Season over.  What a year! 

If you have any comments, please fire away and I’ll try to get back to the comments. 

Chad Read More » | (2) Comments »

Ravens O
This offense is becoming one of the most explosive in football, each week this offense adds another dimension to it. Two weeks ago, against Cleveland, they ran a lot from the shotgun and this week, against the Texans, they got back to the power running from the I, but one thing that is becoming very constant is their ability to go vertical. As I watch and study each and every team, no one in the NFL is taking more shots and completing them down the field than the Ravens - and keep in mind they are doing this with a rookie QB Joe Flacco. Now Matt Ryan of the Atlanta Falcons is the front runner to win rookie of the year, but there is still a lot of football left and if Flacco keeps this up, it could be a photo finish between Ryan, Flacco and Chris Johnson of the Titans.

KC Chiefs O
Why would I be watching the Chiefs’ offense? Because they are part of the NFL and I have to tell you that Tyler Thigpen is the best QB the Chiefs have had this year and after studying him the last few weeks, I tell you, his skill set is impressive. First things I look for: 1) does he make good decisions and understand what he sees? 2) is he accurate? and 3) can he make all the throws at critical times in the game? He has been money on all 3. And even though he did not complete that 2-point conversion against the Chargers, he made so many great throws to put them in posit ion to have that chance. Still a lot of football left but if he keeps getting better as the season moves on, consider Tyler your starter for the Chiefs next year.

Giants O
Love watching this team every week, they’re pure football! What I mean by that is their fundamentals are so clean, blocking, the running schemes and passing schemes and one guy that stands out every week is Kevin Boss the TE. Watching him block is a thing of beauty he de-cleats D ends, LBs, you name it - and if he does not pancake them he is mad at himself. They are throwing the ball to him more and more as well. He is becoming the most complete TE in football.

Steelers O
What is wrong with Ben? That is what everyone wants to know, well I really felt a lot of it had to do with getting hit and yes, it could have something to do with it, but here is why I spend 60 hours a week watching tape on this league - because I can see the problems when I put in the tape. If people don’t know, Ben has missed a lot of practice and I’m starting to see the timing of the passing game erode because of it. Ben is missing a lot of anticipated throws because he has not been practicing. On our NFL Matchup show that airs Sunday at 7:30 am ET on ESPN, I will show you what I’m talking about. Also the offensive line got manhandled, way too much penetration, penetration is the number one killer in the running game period, and that is what the Colts did all day. And one other thing, because Bob Sanders lines up about 10-yards deep before he enters the box, he is hard to account for, and the Steelers just could not account for him and he made all the tackles he was suppose to.

Browns O
Cleveland went into this game with a controlled passing attack, the ball never traveled more than 10-yards down field. Brady Quinn was very good with this attack, I could tell he was going to get rid off the ball quickly and he did, and against a Denver D that is very average, it was the right thing to do. I would not be surprised to see them use the same kind of plan against the Bills, because teams that have beat the Bills have used a similar type of passing attacks. I got to know Brady this offseason and I would like to see him do well. One thing I know for sure, he will never embarrass the Browns’ organization off the field. He will have to work on his accuracy down the field to be a threat in this league and I’m excited to see how that will turn out for him.

Bills O
Last week I talked about Marshawn Lynch trying to hit a home run every time he touches the ball and all that was doing was hurting the Bills, well this week he ran much harder and got those 2 and 3-yard runs. Now what he needs is an O line to get him a seam. The Bills O line got manhandled and there was way too much penetration, and if you read my blogs long enough you will find out that I believe penetration is the number one killer in the running game. Also Trent Edwards made some bad throws with no pressure on him and bad decisions. When the Bills were winning, he did not make these mistakes.

For more NFL analysis, check out my Web site: MerrilHoge.com 

– Merril Read More » | Write a Comment »

New York Met David Wright and his foundation will host the 4th annual Do the Wright Thing Gala on Nov. 12 from 6 p.m. - 11 p.m. at the Hard Rock Cafe in New York City.  The special musical guest is American Idol David Cook.

Proceeds benefit the David Wright Foundation, which funds everything from Multiple Sclerosis research to Toys for Tots.

Event info:

$150.00 General Admission Event Ticket (children 8 years and older welcome with paid admission)
-Advance ticket sales only
-Open bar and full dinner buffet
-Admission to David Cook performance

GALA SCHEDULE (subject to change)
6pm - Doors open and silent auction bidding begins
8pm - David Cook performance/live auction
10:15pm - Silent auction check out begins
11pm - Hard Rock Café closes

Location:

1501 Broadway
New York, NY, 10036
phone: (212) 709-8153

Buy tickets now at ticketmaster.com! Read More » | Write a Comment »

Just give him the damn plans!

Former NFLer Keyshawn Johnson will host an A&E show chronicling his quest to become an interior designer.

Really.

Johnson, known during his playing days for his quick temper, spent 11 years in the NFL, including three seasons with the Jets. He famously penned a 1997 tell-all book, “Just Give Me the Damn Ball!”

He retired in 2007 and is now an ESPN analyst.

His Saturday-night show, “Keyshawn Johnson: Tackling Design,” will comprise ten half-hour episodes premiering early next year on A&E. Read More » | Write a Comment »

So just liked planned, I took my month off then started training 2 weeks before leaving for Richmond. We arrived here Thursday and played Saturday night beating S. Korea 3-1. I played the first 45, felt great and played well. Pia brought in two players who weren’t on the Olympic roster to get some playing time and decide whether to put them on contract so we have a ton of numbers especially in the backline. Its nice to have subs available since the past games we only had 3 subs. 

We are hanging at the hotel, watching the NFL and getting ready to head to Cincinnati! Although the weather is going to be freezing, I am pretty excited to be heading home to play. We will practice Monday and Tuesday then head to the Boathouse Tuesday night for ribs and Grater’s Ice Cream. It’s not my typical night before a game meal but what can you do? We play Wednesday night at 7:30 at Paul Brown Stadium. My entire family will be at the game so I am really looking forward to it. 

We have one more game on the tour in Tampa, Sat. Nov 8th at 7 p.m. at Raymond James Stadium. Then it is back to Cincinnati for the week as St. Ursula Academy is holding a pep rally, Nov 12th at 2 p.m. and I will be honored before the Bengals game on Nov. 16th. Otherwise I will be enjoying my time with my family and friends. More to come…

– Heather Read More » | Write a Comment »

Hi All ,

So we’re nearly a month into the offseason and already I’ve got the new glove out, breaking it in so I can start to throw again, even though I still have to wait til Christmas to pick up a ball. It’s just hard not to think about playing again when I’m sitting at home watching the playoffs!

What an awesome series between the Rays and Red Sox! I was STOKED for the Rays. I apologize to those of you who wanted a Red Sox-Dodgers series and all the hype that is created with Manny at Fenway etc, but come on, it’s pretty cool to see a team with a tiny payroll and such a young team to come through time and time again, especially after listening to every expert from ESPN analysts, to the guy sitting at his local bar saying that they’re just about to cave. They never did.

Plus it’s fun to watch my best mate Grant Balfour getting fired up like he’s just about to maul anybody with a bat in their hand. I couldn’t help but jump around my living room when he struck out Cabrera. And to answer your question Big Al, I’m pretty sure he’s fine, maybe they just wanted to give Boston a different look by throwing Price into the mix. Balfour will be yellin at himself in the Series and coming up big!

As for me, besides watching and wishing we we’re in the playoffs, I’ve been doing a bit of travelling with my girlfriend. As you can see in my new pic, I made a new friend down in Mexico, he didn’t say a whole lot but makes for a great picture, maybe he didn’t speak Australian!

Also starting my offseason routine. This time last year I was taking 5-hour bus trips in Venezuela, but this year, I have the whole time to get strong and to be in shape and 100% for spring training and win a job in the rotation!

I make my way back to the land of Oz soon, but before I leave the Seattle winter behind I wanted to let you all know you can catch me at DJ’s Sportscards on Monday, November 3rd at 6pm.

It would be great for me to put a face to some of these great comments I have gotten the last couple months and have a chat! So get yourselves down there on the 3rd so I can meet you guys in person!!

(More details are at the bottom)

OK, that’s all from me for now, but I will check back in soon and hopefully meet all of you at DJ’S Sportscards on the 3rd!

See you there!!
Ryan

Monday, November 3, 6-8 pm at DJ’s Sportscards

1630 Duvall Ave NE (Coal Creek Parkway)

Renton, WA, 98059

For driving directions check out: djssportscards.com or call 425-235-4357. Autographed tickets are $15 each, and include a COA (certificate of authenticity) and dual hologram matching serial numbered stickers. Autograph tickets, photos, balls, and cards can be purchased at the store or in advance at djssportscards.com Read More » | (36) Comments »

Packers-Vikings Rematch
You know, after watching the tape from the first matchup of the Packer O and Viking D, aside from a pass that Aaron Rodgers just threw up in the air and Donald Driver came down with, and one big 4th QT run, the Packer offense did not do that much. In fact, I even thought Chad Clifton, the Packers LFT tackle took care of Jared Allen. The Vikings got good pressure with the blitz packages. The thing that killed the Vikings is they had no passing attack for most of the game and they do have that now.

Jets D
All you hear out of NYC is Brett, Brett and Brett. Well do not sleep on this Jets D, they are slowly getting better, Kris Jenkins is an absolute beast. He is doing things in the passing game as far as getting after the QB that Albert Haynesworth is not doing. Kris is a much better pass rusher than Albert. Last week, the Jets secondary worked as well together as I have seen a secondary work this year, and it was against a Buffalo team that has many different ways to attack you on the ground and through the air.

Bills O
Marshawn Lynch is a physical runner and breaks tackles and most of the time lives up to his nickname, “The Beast.” But lately what I see on tape is a guy trying to hit a home run every time he gets the ball instead of hitting the hole and getting a yard or 2 or breaking a tackle. This is what happens to young runners once they get a few big runs, they make their mind up in the huddle and predetermine the run before it happens, he needs to gets back to his style. And Trent Edwards made more bad throws than I have seen him make in any other game this year. Now some of that was due to pressure, and before I forget the pick 6 he threw, Roscoe Parrish fell down or worst case, it would have just been an incompletion not a pick 6.

Raiders O - Falcons D
I’m telling you, I have never seen a more one-sided affair in 22 years of playing and studying the NFL on tape, but the Atlanta Falcons D looked like they knew the Raiders’ offense better than the Raiders knew it. One thing is very clear; the Raiders have no true weapons at the skill positions so it’s very hard to evaluate JaMarcus Russell.

Black Team
My little league team finished 9-0, and our last game was canceled so the season is over. Check out the SportsCenter hit I did, and if you have a little league or high school play, upload it to Sportscenter.com and hopefully I will be able to breakdown your play.

Cleveland D
This defense was supposed to take the next step when it got Shaun Rogers from Detroit and after watching and studying this defense for the last couple of months, I can tell you they are so inconsistent up front — one play they look like world beaters and the next they look disinterested in playing. Shaun Rogers at times is unstoppable and then other times he gets manhandled. I can speak from experience that this about attitude and a mental commitment. Playing hard and fighting every play is about desire, not athletic ability.

I’m glad they benched Derek Anderson because now the defense will play harder, smarter and with consistent intensity??? Yes I’m kidding. I could find 5 guys on defense that need to see the pine of a bench for a while, and you could find a few guys on the offensive line that need to join Derek. In fact, I would argue they need to be benched before he was. Two other observations: everyone probably knows that if Braylon Edwards catches that perfect pass, Cleveland probably wins that game, and the pick 6 he threw the back stopped on the screen route. You never stop on a route even if you think you’re covered, which he did. Why? Because the QB has already committed to the throw and the ball is already in the air, but benching Derek will help these mental and physical errors.

I had a chance to visit with Brady Quinn this summer as we were on a flight together heading to a golf outing for Walmart. When he sat down beside me, it was the first time I had the chance to visit with him and get to know him as person. I got off the plane a Brady Quinn fan, in the sense of pulling for him to do well when he gets the chance. Now why this could have been very uncomfortable is that when he was coming out of college, I studied him and other QBs, and I liked several others better than him. One was Trent Edwards with Buffalo and the other was JaMarcus Russell. Both guys, I felt, had a better command of the game mentally and they were more athletic and much more accurate.

Now Trent has lived up to and even exceeded expectations but his big knock was he was hurt. Well I can tell you if you saw his offensive line at Stanford you would wonder how he survived. JaMarcus has looked very bad this season and last week was one of the worst performances I have ever seen in 22 years of playing and studying this game. JaMarcus has zero weapons around him. So here is what I’m getting at, it’s an awful lot to ask a guy in his first start to overcome all the weakness the Browns have. Oh I know you say that’s not fair and they don’t expect him to do that, you’re right but the fan does!! When you do this, the perception is it’s the QB fault so if we switch that position we will win. I would like to see Brady do well but an O line that has been awful this year had better get it’s act together. One plus, the Denver D can be manhandled in the running game so I would expect Cleveland to attack with their run the majority of the time.

Cowboys D
Can it get any worse? Oh yes it can and it did. I watch 50 to 70 hours of tape a week and I see one defense after another so you get a lot of cross-referencing from all that tape, so when something is really good it stands out, and when something is really bad it’s like a sore thumb. Well what I saw late in the game against the Giants made my stomach turn and there is no excuse for what happened, and I mean NO excuse. If you remember the Giants RB Ward’s TD run late in the 4th QT, as he came through the line, No. 31 Mike Jenkins the Cowboys rookie corner had a great shot at Ward and could have stopped him, but stopped and backed up to let Ward score. It was one of the biggest coward moves I have seen since we showed Randy Moss standing around doing nothing on dozens of plays every week when he played for the Vikings early in his career.

Do the Cowboys have issues? Yes. Can some of them be corrected? Yes! But what I saw from Mike Jenkins tells you they have guys quitting and I only say that when I see this on tape. It’s one thing to physically get beat and lose, but it is another thing to quit and on tape there is evidence some Cowboy players are quitting when things are tough and clearly one of those guys is Mike Jenkins!!!

Miami O
Miami is making its move. Each week I study an offense that adds different phases to their offensive playbook. The wild cat has become one of those phases that teams must spend time preparing for but what I really like is they have 2 backs that run hard and one that has the ability to hit home runs in Ronnie Brown. Ricky Williams has been impressive on tape with his ability to run hard and break tackles and Chad Pennington has been asked to make some bigtime throws late in games and he has done it. One area of concern that must get better for this team is the offensive line, too many errors mentally and physically in the running game and passing game, if this group gets better, Miami will win this division.

Ravens O
When I first watched tape on Joe Flacco the first thing that stood out was his big arm. You knew that he would be able to challenge the entire field when he got to the NFL and there was no throw more evident of that than when he threw his first TD against the Cleveland Browns to Derek Mason on a very deep post route. I can think of only Jay Cutler of the Denver Broncos that could have made that throw. The Ravens did a lot of shotgun and no huddle and it’s what Joe did in college, so we are starting to see them open it up. And Ray Rice was a tackle breaking machine in college and those types of backs always translate well to the NFL. He plays well out of the shotgun, in fact, all of his big runs came from that formation.

For more NFL analysis, check out my Web site: MerrilHoge.com.

– Merril Read More » | (1) Comment »

Dallas O
This offense has spiraled downward so fast without Tony Romo and Felix Jones. In fact, I just finished watching the tape of Cowboys vs. Bucs, and the Cowboy offense is Marion Barber breaking tackles. If Marion did not break tackles and make things happen, they would have no offense. And, it is very clear Brad Johnson just does not have any confidence. There were several plays dialed up for him to throw the ball down the field and he would not even look at the routes.

Brad had been one of the great pros in this league, and one of the great people in the NFL, but this is a clear sign of what 15 years can do to a player. Keep in mind he has been a Super Bowl-winning QB so he does know how to play this game, but he just does not have the skill left to do it.

Watch the State Farm NFL Matchup show at 7:30 am ET this Sunday on ESPN and I will show you what I’m talking about. I do not believe Brad will finish the game against the Giants, not because he will get hurt, but because the coaches will pull him. You have been a great player Brad.

Dallas D
Two things changed once Wade started calling plays. One, they played with a sense of purpose and everyone flew to the football – and quite honestly, they should have been doing that all year. Two, Wade has always been an aggressive coordinator and had guys moving around. Well he had a lot of movement out of his LBs and he brought pressure as well. I would expect that to continue.

Pittsburgh O
One problem has hurt this offense all year and it will be the one thing that keeps them from the Super Bowl, or it will be the thing that gets them to the Super Bowl and that is pass protection. Here is the real trouble, and it’s symptomatic of an offensive line that has not played a lot together: The Steelers do not handle stunts and twists very well and all that is, is when 2 DL cross at the snap of the ball, what that does is force 2 or 3 offensive linemen to work together and if you don’t work together, you let guys go. That has been a big problem for the Steelers’ offensive line. Mewelde Moore has done a nice job filling in but on 3rd down he does not block as consistently as he needs to. And Ben is a guy who has made so many plays when the defense wins by his movement, he will hold the ball a second longer than he needs to at times. And one other thing, the running game lacks the physical and explosive style it has had for years, Willie Parker should bring that back.

Giants D
Here is the bottom line with the Giants D: You can tell what a defense is all about at the end of games with a lead. They had a lead and what did they do? They blitzed the Steelers on every play. They are playing championship style football.

Washington D
One guy that shows up every week and makes play after play is London Fletcher. No matter who plays them, you better get him blocked. What a player. He is so instinctive just watching him dissect plays as they are unfolding is a thing of beauty.

Beau Hoge throws a touchdown pass:

For more NFL analysis, check out my Web site at MerrilHoge.com.

– Merril Read More » | Write a Comment »

Joe Blanton, folks!!  What a performance!  He is a great guy, the type you really enjoy as a teammate. He’s also a very good pitcher who had a down year, by his standards, this season. This entire clubhouse in Philly knew he was capable of the pitching performance. The home run, though???  Wow, is all I can say!  He really got ahold of that one … Edwin Jackson ran a 93 mph heater right into his barrel and off it went. To tell the truth, after Hinske’s homerun, the momentum was in limbo and Joe’s homer put the momentum fully back in our favor. 

Ryan Howard showed everyone what all the fuss is about — that man can hit a baseball. When he’s staying on the baseball and working the opposite field, he’s pretty amazing. It puts so much pressure on opposing pitchers when he’s swinging it well. His production is enough to scare other teams, but (btw, Scott Eyre is sitting next to me and says “hi”) now the rest of an extremely talented lineup becomes even more dangerous.

You have to pitch to Chase Utley differently, which can be problematic. Meanwhile, Jimmy Rollins has been on base a lot the past two games … TROUBLE. I don’t want to forget Jayson Werth swinging it well and Pedro Feliz breaking the seal on base hits with runners in scoring position. Carlos Ruiz has called great games behind the plate and has also really swung the bat well. One last name. .. Shane Victorino. He has been amazing this postseason and he’s a big game player. I could go on and on and on.  Maybe I’m a little excited!!  

So, tonight … Cole Hamels vs. Scott Kazmir. It’s COLD in Philly tonight. I think gametime temp is 48 degrees. It felt that cold at 6:00 pm during batting practice. Needless to say, adrenaline will overmatch the cold, but I think it needs to be said. Where else would you want to be?  This is October and World Series baseball weather!  

If we win tonight, this town will make an attempt to turn itself inside-out!  It will be chaos, bedlam … and long-awaited. You can feel the excitement in fans both at the field and away from Citizens Bank Park. Fans thanking players for everything at grocery stores and restaurants.  I hope we can pull it off here at home, for Philadelphia and for this team and this organization. 

Tune in!  One more win.  

Chad Durbin

 
10/26/08

Wow! Game 3 was amazing. A walk-off win. A solid and gutsy outing by Jamie Moyer, and an amazing web gem of a play from the 45-year old (which was ultimately called safe and wrong).  Back-to-back homeruns. BJ Upton single-handedly tied the game in the 8th using his speed. Ben Zobrist played a 5th infield position in the bottom of the 9th in that do-or-die situation with no one out.

A very pretty and talented Taylor Swift sang a great national anthem. I even hear there’s a rumor that Tim McGraw secretly sprinkled his father’s ashes on the mound when he threw out the 1st pitch. It truly was an amazing night and great baseball game!

Back to business. Game 4 is now the most important game of the 2008 World Series.  If the Phillies win, it is obviously a huge advantage statistically and psychologically. If Tampa wins, the series is back to even and the rotations turn over. It would be huge to take Game 4.  Should be another good game. 

Home-field advantage may or may not have played a large role last night in Game 3. The Philadelphia fans are rowdy, loud, and fantastic!  They chanted the word “Ev-a!” to Evan Longoria in the 2nd inning … it was hauntingly loud. Garza, despite his ears being plugged, undoubtedly heard the roars and chants all game. I’m not saying it was the difference, but it’s definitely called an advantage for a reason.   

This would be a great one to win. 8:35EST on FOX.  

Game 3
Saturday’s are busy during October with College Football. LSU is playing Georgia right now and down 7 just after halftime. Any other year, I’d be a little disappointed that they’re not playing well in a big game (they’re not playing BAD, but they’re down. This particular Saturday though, I’m distracted … Game 3 of the World Series makes that big SEC game on TV right now seem so normal. 

Game 3 is huge for both teams. If Tampa steals one here, home-field advantage goes back into their favor. If we, the Phillies, then the “pitching mismatch” all the media outlets keep talking about has gone in Jamie Moyer’s favor. Jamie has been so consistent all year. We wouldn’t be here without his performance and presence. I think he’ll be up to the challenge … no one is more prepared. 

I hope you’re enjoying the series so far. Its great for baseball to have a good start to the series. 

Chad Durbin Read More » | (5) Comments »

This is the same coach who never had a losing season in Buffalo, but was sent packing. The same coach who has only one losing season (a 7-9 performance)  in his nine-year head coaching rap sheet.  Yes, this is who we are sending a Southwest Airlines, one-way ticket to, to coach the Los Angeles mysterious football team. 

Let’s not forget that he bettered the Bill Parcells’ 9-7 team and turned them into 13-3 Super Bowl contenders.  The reason expectations are so high in Dallas is because of what Wade Phillips has done with this team in just one year!  If you don’t believe me, ask T.O. about the importance of Wade Phillips.

This scapegoat scenario reminds me of when my boys and I get into joking sessions while playing the dozens.  When we get stuck or somebody is getting the best of us, we single out the quietest of the gang and pick on him in hopes to rally favor.   Since Wade isn’t a rah-rah guy, he is always going to be subject to ‘dismissal talks’ when hot dog sales are down and when people stop unjustly blaming Jessica Simpson.

Dallas has run out of excuses.  We heard it all last year, including a singing girlfriend was ‘bad luck’ … how outrageous!  This year, after getting some good players with great Q-ratings … after filming a reality show during training camp … after letting T.O.’s tears not land on the ground, but rather in the playbook … after forcing Jason Garrett to force the ball to T.O. and abandoning the running game at times … after signing and babysitting Pacman until the red ghost finally caught him again (for you gamers out there) …  after hearing Jerry Jones, whom I love as an owner,  basically send a memo to all Cowboy affiliated that the regular season didn’t matter, but only wins in the playoffs … after all that, this team officially got ‘caught up’ in the hype. 

And being caught up isn’t as drastic as it sounds, rather it’s subtle but its effect is tremendous.  The keen focus needed for all the little things that lead to success in the NFL has been undervalued by all these large issues that have blinded the Cowboys players.  This is also the biggest obstacle in communication and interaction between the coaches and players.  Unfortunately in Dallas, the owner, Jerry Jones, has loaded this gun that the world wants Wade Phillips to aim and shoot. 

Do we not remember the effect of Tom Brady’s injury to the Pats?  Well, the same affect has grown true in Big ‘D.”  Romo’s pinkie pains effect more than just his throwing hand.  Therefore, until you get Neumann & Felix Jones back healthy, Roy Williams the DB is already lost for the year. And yes, injuries (along with the previously mentioned distractions) are to blame for the recent underperformance of these boys!  But, as Dallas has gone long on excuses and reasons for their playoff losses, and everything else that dulls the luster of the star, how about those 53 men take a look in the mirror? For once, let’s spread the proper share of blame with the owner who sips on the mint juleps or the horses in Dallas, but don’t place the entire blame on the quiet jockey, because truthfully, through this slump, he is just along for the ride. 

Hee-Haw!!!

– Marcellus Read More » | (2) Comments »

So, World…You met Cole Hamels last night. He’s 24 years old, but walks, talks, and pitches like a veteran major leaguer. Some people are just geared that way. He’s special. 

Cole pitched 7 innings of 2 run baseball in Game 1 of the 2008 World Series. He put up zeros in innings in which momentum could have shifted. He had good defense played behind him and stayed in pitcher-favorable counts to put pressure on the young Rays’ hitters. It can’t be stressed enough how important winning Game 1 is in this type of series. 

So tonight, Game 2 of the World Series. Emotional Brett Myers makes the start for the Phillies and James Shields makes the start for the Rays. Two right-handed starters with tremendous stuff and the ability to shut down any lineup in baseball. I think the early innings will dictate the game. I know Brett and I know how much this means to him … for the players, for Philadelphia, for everyone. He handles pressure extremely well and feeds off it. I’m looking forward to seeing how it all plays out. 

On a personal note, I can’t wait to get into a game. I realize I can’t control that variable, but what an honor to run out on that field and pitch in a World Series. I warmed up in the 7th inning last night and other than my legs being numb, being close to vomiting, and loving every second of it (somehow) … everything was normal!  The nerves, though, are more from anticipation than actually being in action. Once I was up and throwing in the bullpen, my nerves settled to a manageable level. I also think it’s good to embrace and recognize that you ARE nervous. The only times I can remember being that nervous were at the birth of my child, my marriage and my Major League debut. In all cases, once the action started, I was more comfortable once we got going. 

So, I’m writing this while I’m in the clubhouse before batting practice of Game 2. This is all very exciting and there’s no way to downplay it. It IS exciting and everything you’ve ever played for … a World Series title. I’m grateful to be here and know how fortunate we all are. 

Cheer someone on in Game 2, but tune in!  FOX, 8:29 EST!

Chad Durbin Read More » | (3) Comments »

Orlando Hudson and his C.A.T.C.H. Foundation will join with SAARC and Autism Speaks for the annual Walk for Autism in Phoenix. Orlando will serve as the Honorary Chair for this event. For more information or to join Team C.A.T.C.H. for the walk go to walknowforautism.org.

Experience the power of thousands united by a single cause by joining the Arizona Walk Now for Autism. Start a corporate, school or family team today!

The Arizona Walk Now for Autism offers everyone a fun-filled experience with entertainment, refreshments, an autism community resource fair, and much, much more. Be sure to raise $100 to earn your commemorative Arizona Walk Now for Autism T-shirt. We look forward to seeing you at the Walk!

Location:  Tempe Beach Park, Tempe, AZ

Registration: 8 a.m.

Resource Fair: 8 a.m.

Opening Ceremony: 9:30 a.m.

Walk starts: 9:45 a.m.

Closing Ceremonies: 11:45 a.m. Read More » | Write a Comment »

If you prebuy before October 25 you get a special discount price of just $12 each! You can prebuy on djssportscards.com or call the store at 425-235-4357. Photos, baseballs, and cards will be available at DJ’s Sportscards and djssportscards.com! Cant make it to the signing? Let DJ’s Sportscards get your item signed for you! Order on djssportscards.com!

Location and phone:  1630 Duvall Ave, NE #D, Renton, WA, 98059.  (425) 235-4357 Read More » | Write a Comment »

Let’s admit it, the Tampa Rays hosting the Philadelphia Phillies wasn’t a media dream scenario. Especially when compared to a “Manny meets BoSox in World Series” date.  I love it. I couldn’t be any happier about it! Okay, I’m as biased as humanly possible because I play for one of the teams. 

Regardless, I think the quality of baseball will be outstanding. I also believe its time for the rest of the world to find out about Chase Utley, Ryan Howard, Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Jayson Werth, Pat Burrell, Cole Hamels, Ryan Madson, and Brad Lidge for the Phillies. BJ Upton, Carlos Pena, Carl Crawford, Matt Garza, Scott Kazmir, Evan Longoria and the rest of the Rays. It is just time…so much talent on the field. 

If you’re still not interested New York Yankee fans?  Boston Red Sox fans? Chicago Cubs fans?  In a free agent heavy game, many of these players could be Yankees, Red Sox, Cubs or any other market in the next couple years. Here’s your opportunity to take a 7-game series look at it first hand. Enjoy!

Tell me what you think! 

Chad Read More » | (6) Comments »

- Sarah Rothschild, Miami Herald

Former MLB player Jeff Conine never has endured a physical challenge as draining, demanding or difficult as the one that awaits. Playing 2,024 games in 17 major-league seasons tested him, but not like the Ford Ironman World Championship will in Kona, Hawaii, on Saturday.

Conine, a member of the Marlins’ two World Series championship teams, must swim 2.4 miles, bike 112 miles and run 26.2 miles in 17 hours to claim Ironman status.

”There’s nothing that I’ve done that will come close to this,” Conine, 42, said Wednesday by phone from Hawaii. “I’m nervous. I’m anxious. I’m fearful because I’ve never done all three [disciplines] in one day at this distance. You don’t know how your body will react and how you will get through it.”

Conine was granted an exemption to participate in the Ironman, which features 1,800 competitors, because he is competing for charity. He is hoping his effort will culminate in raising $100,000 for the Bone Marrow Transplant Program at the Memorial Cancer Institute at Memorial Hospital West in Pembroke Pines — to honor late friend Howard Zimmerman, who died of cancer in November.

To prepare for the race, Conine followed six-time Ironman winner Mark Allen’s training program and got advice from Marlins president David Samson, who completed the Ironman in 2006.

”There’s going to be a lot that happens in the Ironman, and you just have to remember to keep going,” Samson said he told Conine. “The second thing I told him is he’s competing in the world championship, and he’s a professional baseball player, not a professional triathlete. It’s OK not to finish the race first.”

Conine has two goals: complete the Ironman and beat Samson’s time of 15 hours, 36 minutes, 44 seconds.

They also made a bet. Samson bet Conine that his legs would be as smooth as Samson’s were after shaving them for the Ironman.

”He’ll be the only guy with hairy legs, just so he wouldn’t lose the bet with me,” Samson said.

Samson inspired Conine to compete in the Ironman, and according to Samson, the day after he competed, Conine called to say he planned to one day do the race. Conine, a Weston resident, has been regularly training about seven days a week since retiring after last season. Conine said his longest training days were about 7 ½ hours.

The training has been manageable, he said, and he hasn’t wavered about competing.

Friends and former teammates are supportive of his effort. But he said many questioned his sanity.

”They don’t know why I’m doing something like this,” Conine said. “It’s the greatest physical challenge anyone could undertake.”

Conine’s agent, Michael Watkins, said he is not surprised his close friend and client of 17 years is doing the Ironman because, “He’s just motivated to do things other people don’t do. It’s just the way he’s wired.”

Conine’s wife, Cindy, three children, parents and in-laws will be cheering him on in Hawaii, and Samson and Watkins will be following his progress from afar. Watkins said this will be life-changing, and Samson said Conine will wake up Sunday feeling like a different person.

”Crossing the finish line in Hawaii was better than winning the World Series,” Samson said. “I’m excited I’ll have someone to talk to about that.

‘Since crossing the finish line, a lot of things have gotten easier. When you’re in a hard situation in business, you think, `Hey, if I can do the Ironman, I can do this.’ If you’re doing something physical, you say, ‘Listen. I did the Ironman. I can do this.’ ”

Conine said he is unsure how participating in the Ironman will affect him but knows he will take away at least one lesson.

”It’s taught me how you can push the limits of physical endurance to levels you never thought were possible,” he said. Read More » | Write a Comment »

I was in NYC all week finishing an educational DVD for Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma. The DVD will serve as an educational informative DVD to help those who have been diagnosed with the disease. I was diagnosed six years ago and I still remember how lost and confused I was about the disease, and all I could think about initially is that I was going to die. Well, this DVD will take that fear away immediately and give hope to those that have been unfortunately diagnosed with this form of cancer.

So that is the reason I have been slow with my blogging this week and I’m going to make this very short and sweet, but very important for the future of the season. In fact, we will look back at these points later in the year to see the way they play out.

Dallas-Tampa
Here is what I saw on tape on the Cowboys offense: the Rams played a lot of man-to-man, more than they have played all year. Why? Well because they made Brad Johnson hold the ball and make stick throws and he just can’t do it consistently anymore. The WRs did not help him, none of them could get separation, and this week Tampa will do the same only they have a better D.  

One other thing that needs updating when Tony Romo and Felix Jones are not in the lineup, this is not the most talented offense in football; in fact, they are just above average on offense and average on defense. Speaking of defense, it is sad how many times Roy Williams is attacked each week. I hate to see anyone get hurt and usually when a starter gets hurt on either side of the ball, it hurts them, but not in this case. Teams were just wearing him out. And teams keep attacking Greg Ellis, and here is why: he just struggles getting off blocks and is easy to block. This D has a lot of problems in the secondary and teams will keep attacking it.

Steelers-Giants
Keys: Giant running game against the most violent LB core in the NFL against the run, they will go against the best O-line in football. Another key: can the Steelers handle the blitz packages of the Giants, just remember they are very similar to the Eagles’ blitzes and the Steelers struggled against them.

Next week much more on all things.  And just to finish my update on my little league team, we finished the season 9-0. So proud of our kids. 

For more on Non Hodgkin’s Lymphoma and NFL analysis, check out my Web site: MerrilHoge.com.

– Merril Read More » | Write a Comment »

Hello Everyone! Lets just say I AM enjoying my time off but I’m definitely starting to feel rather lazy. Miraculously, I have kept pretty busy, playing tennis, taking spinning and pilates classes, went to Six Flags and on a haunted hay-ride and have been watching a ton of movies but its a lot of sitting around. Believe me though, for the first time in my life, I needed a break mentally and physically. Its been about 2 weeks now and I have another week to enjoy. 

Tomorrow I head back to Hermosa Beach to pack up my stuff and say Ciao to the West Coast for now. I have made a lot of great friends and will be especially sad to say bye to my roommate, Jenny Benson, who I played with on the Philadelphia Charge. We have a busy weekend ahead of us though. Friday night the kickball team is throwing me a going away party. Saturday packing and moving my stuff. Sunday I hop back on a plane to head to Under Armour’s headquarters in Baltimore. We will be shooting another holiday spot for two days with Dick’s Sporting Goods so that should be fun. Then I get to enjoy the Eagles bye week with a trip to Connecticut and onto New York City. 

The following week its back to soccer and cramming for the next set of games. 

I need to make sure I can go a full 90 when we play in my hometown on Nov 5th! Yikes. I haven’t been home since the Olympics so I am really looking forward to this. Going to the Nati!

Tour info is below. Talk soon.

-Heather 

The tour, which is taking the Olympic champions across the USA to celebrate its historic run to the top of the podium in Beijing, will resume on Nov. 1 at the University of Richmond Stadium in Richmond, Va. Kickoff is at 6 p.m. ET. The game will be a homecoming for Virginia native and University of Virginia alumna Angela Hucles, who led the team in scoring during the Olympics with four goals.

The USA will travel from Virginia to Cincinnati, hometown of U.S. defender Heather Mitts, for a match on Nov. 5 at Paul Brown Stadium. Kickoff is 7:30 p.m. ET. Mitts, who has 91 caps for the USA, will play for the USA in her hometown for the second time as the USA passed through Cincinnati on the 2004 Victory Tour to celebrate the gold medal in Athens, Greece.

The three-game set against the Koreans will conclude on Nov. 8 at Raymond James Stadium in Tampa, Fla., with a kickoff at 7 p.m. ET. It will mark the first visit to Florida by the U.S. Women in more than eight years.

Tickets for the matches in Richmond and Tampa go on sale to the public Friday, Oct. 10, at 10 a.m. ET. For the game in Cincinnati, tickets become available starting Sunday, Oct. 12, at 10 a.m. ET. For all three contests, tickets can be purchased through ussoccer.com, by phone at 804-262-8100 (Richmond), 513-562-4949 (Cincinnati) and 813-287-8844 (Tampa), and at all Ticketmaster ticket centers in the metro areas of the three games. Groups of 20 or more can obtain an order form at ussoccer.com or call 312-528-1290.

As a sponsor of U.S. Soccer, Visa® is pleased to offer all Visa cardholders access to an advance ticket sale for these matches before the sale to the general public. This advance sale will take place for the games in Richmond and Tampa from Thursday, Oct. 9, at 8 a.m. ET until Friday, Oct. 10, at 8 a.m. at ussoccer.com. For the game in Cincinnati, the sale will run from Friday, Oct. 10, at 8 a.m. ET until Sunday, Oct. 12, at 8 a.m. Visa will be the only payment method accepted through the Visa presale and is the preferred card of U.S. Soccer. Terms and conditions apply. Read More » | Write a Comment »