I Think That I am Becoming a Southerner

It took some soul searching, but I have finally come to a crossroad in my life where I know that I am changing...for the good or the bad is yet to be seen. I am becoming a Southerner! I'll explain...

My tan line is ridiculous! Everyone of you that read this blog has seen me come back home dark skinned, now it is out of control. My skin tone is the darkest I have ever noticed. And let's not mention that I have taken the "farmer's tan" to an entirely new level. I'm talking ankle to knee cap is like a big black leg brace being worn on each leg, and my dark necked "ring-around-the-collar" is utterly absurd.

Alligators, snakes, and lizards aren't a big deal anymore. I had to pick up a huge dead water moccasin (most aggressive snake in Florida) out of the parking lot the other day, not even thinking twice about it. Actually seeing them is a big thrill of my day. I have gotten so use to the alligators in my park that I tend to get closer to the water each day I see one. And, those little lizards that everyone sees in Florida (that are not geckos), I find them on my car, in the house, or on the front porch...no big deal, their just little lizards.

I am man enough to even admit my dipping tobacco intake is bad!

I am now studying to become a Class A Driver. Yes, I will be licensed to drive a big rig probably in the next month or so. The same big rigs that everyone hates driving next to on the highway, and the same ones that have drivers always riding your ass for no apparent reason other than they hate everything about your little car. Being a Class A Driver also means that I am going to have to know the inside and outside of the truck for pre-trip inspection purposes, and know what is wrong with my vehicle's engine if something goes wrong. Which brings me to my last topic...

This Saturday night, I will be attending...(cough,cough) the Coke Zero 400 in Daytona. Where all the big named drivers will be racing. Let me explain though, I am going with my boy Den who got the tickets through a buddy of his, and there in the luxury tower at the track. So I will be hanging with all the big-dog racing freaks being taken care of during the entire race. Not to mention that I will be able to see every part of the track while women make sure that my ever excessive drinking habit is getting taken of. Tell me you would pass this up! Den told me that I have to be "into" the night on July 4th. So what I am going to do is go to the race, get absolutely hammered, throw in a lipper, scream like an idiot, then go to some dirty strip club and try to talk a dancer into coming home with me. After all...

I think that I am becoming a southerner!

Dirty Diana

One of the more underrated songs MJ ever had. Strong guitar playing, and the lyrics from Mike were classic!

Happy Birthday Timbro!

Happy 28 bud! Miss ya already if you can believe it. Enjoy the day, CT, and your summer!

Beat It

No matter how you think of this video now, this was a very bad ass video when we were kids. Even though I still don't know how Mike got into that diner without anyone there, or the pool hall for that matter. The way he helped those guys from killing each other to dancing with each other is an act of God. The dance scenes in this video were great for it's time, and I remember my mother not thinking it was good for me to watch for my age. The classic red jacket is what made this video great.

Remember the Time

I remember the time when this video first came out. It was on a Monday night, but I can't recall if it was before or after The Fresh Prince of Bel Air. I do remember this being a big deal, especially for the release of a music video to a television audience. I am going to keep doing this so get use to the videos.

The King of Pop

Died today at the age of 50. I was suppose to write about something else today, but I am really lost for words. He was my favorite artist growing up, and still today I would pop in the Michael Jackson's Greatest hits on my Ipod every now and then. And of course all of you know my love for the Thriller dance, even though I can never quite get the entire dance down. Miss ya Mike, even though I have been missing the real you for quite some time! There will never be another entertainer like you!

Big One for USA

Clint Dempsey scores the 2nd USA goal verse Spain.

By now you have probably heard that USA upset Spain Wednesday 2-0. If you missed the game, you missed a great one. High intensity and fast paced. In the 27th minute of the game phenom Jozy Altidore broke by a defender and put a shot into the back of the net. In the second half USA got a little insurance when Clint Dempsey found the back of the net after a Landon Donovan pass was deflected by a Spanish defender. It turned out to be a huge goal because moments later center mid-fielder Michael Bradley would be given a very questionable red-card and the US would have to play a man down. Goalie Tim Howard had an incredible game making several great saves especially after sub par performances versus Italy and Brazil.

This is a huge win for the US not just because it sends them into the final, but because it was against the #1 FIFA ranked Spain. A team that hasn't lost in 35 matches. It gives them hope and it gives their fans hope for a positive outcome in the 2010 World Cup. They need a good showing in the 2010 World Cup just to make up for the dismal performance in the last two. I not saying they could win it, but this victory shows they can play with the big boys. And remember against Italy they played 10 on 11 most of the game and held a lead for most of the game until they ran out of gas.

WHAT'S NEXT FOR TEAM USA: After probably facing Brazil in the finals (no one expects them to win this one especially after a 3-0 drubbing last week, but they could make it interesting). The US will face and hope to advance through Grenada, Honduras, and Haiti in the Gold Cup in July. The match against Honduras should be a good one after a 2-1 victory last early in June for the US. It is at RFK stadium and DC has great fans which should help. The match against Haiti is at Gillete Stadium. If you like watching goals scored this might a good one to attend, plus its relatively close. After that they go back to World Cup Qualifying(yes they still need to qualify) against Mexico on August 12th.

CWS Championship (Game 2 ReCap - Game 3 Preview)

I had a funny feeling this would happen! Texas' Taylor Jungmann put on a pitching clinic for the ages last night by siliencing the LSU Tiger bats, something that doesn't happen often. After almost a hour and a half rain delay, Jungmann and the Longhorns took it to LSU and now have tied the series at one a piece to force the ultimate championship game tonight. Texas DH Russell Moldenhauer led the offense again last night stroking his 4th homerun in Omaha and has put his coach, Augie Garrido a win away from his 6th national title as a coach. There really wasn't much to last night's game except of course the pitching of Jungmann. I had a feeling it would be a much different night for him yesterday after throwing 6 straight balls in his short appearance in Game 1, and I was right. Pitching a complete game of 5 hit ball, striking out 9, walking 2, and not allowing an earned run was a more impressive line than that of LSU's record against right-handers this season (37-3).

As for tonight's main event between the game's top storied programs. LSU is obviously going to go to sophomore Anthony Ranaudo, something I am very surprised they didn't do last night. He last pitched Friday against Arkansas posting 6 innings of shutout ball, so he should be ready to go tonight. Texas is going with their soph as well in Cole Green who posted 2 victories in Omaha against Southern Miss and Arizona State. I don't think that either starting pitcher will get past the 6th inning tonight, so expect the bullpens to play a major factor. I have a name for each team tonight that is going to play huge. The bats will be out for both teams tonight as I like Texas RF Kevin Keyes and LSU 1B Ryan Schimpf to both step it up after both posting o-fors last night. I am so sad that this tournament is going to be over tonight, but so pumped for the game.

"There were 288 [college baseball teams] that started," Texas coach Augie Garrido said. "Two are left with one game to play. It's pretty awesome."

Don't miss it!

LSU wins the championship tonight 9-7

Ricky Rubio and ?s about the NBA Draft

I have a lot of questions regarding the NBA Draft. How high will Rubio go in tomorrow's NBA Draft? Actually, the real question is, will he be worth it? I hope so for his sake. Lots of big names in this draft, but are they NBA material? How high will Tyler Hansborough go? How are the Knicks going to screw this draft up? Why do the Timberwolves have 15 1st round picks? Why did Hasheem Thabeet skip out on a workout from a team experts are saying are going to pick him? Is Stephen Curry going to be for real? Say what you want about this class being "weak", I certainly think that this could be one of the more entertaining Drafts in years. I think many "experts" are going to be dead wrong on where players will be chosen. We shall see!

CWS Championship (Game 1 ReCap - Game 2 Preview)

Game 1 was amazing last night to say the least. Filled with drama, clutch pitching, and balls leaving the yard it will be hard to imagine Game 2 being quite as good. Last night Texas hit 5 HRs with 3 of them coming from players that have only hit 3 all season. But, it wasn't enough! LSU's freshman closer Matt Ott was absolutely phenomenal out of the pen for the Tigers in the late inning earning the victory. I don't know if all saw my man Jared Mitchell's 2-run triple to tie the game at 3 early on but it was a sight to see watching him fly around the bases. Another freshman stepped up big late after starting the game terrible, and this could be why baseball is so great. Just when you can't possibly do anything more worse than strikeout 3 times in 3 at-bats for your team. Centerfielder Mikie Mahtook, was awful then late when he team needed him most he came up with the GW RBI single in the 11th that capped an amazing comeback in Omaha. LSU coach Paul Mainieri had to be breathing a sigh of relief when he got back to hotel last night after almost losing a game the way they have won games all season.

Even though it is raining in Omaha as we speak, don't think for a second that it will be canceled. So that means for me another sleepless night. And it won't be the last. I really like Texas to pull off a major victory bring the Championship series to a third and final game. Likely pitching tonight for the Longhorns is freshman Taylor Jungmann who has great poise on the mound even though he threw 6 straight balls last night when Texas needed him. But, being forced out of the bullpen last minute and getting the nod on the mound are two separate things. If the they don't go with Jungmann than expect Cole Green who pitched the clincher on Saturday. As for the Tigers they are going to have to go with someone that is not as rested as they would like. Expect them to go with super soph Anthony Ranaudo, but don't expect him to be at full health. Lot's of small ball as expected for the Longhorns and if the Tigers win tonight expect lots of balls leaving the yard on their part instead of their foes.

Texas wins Game 2 6-5

A Few Random Thoughts for Today

One more week til the move...I hope! Just when you think that you have everything together, someone punches you in the mouth and tells you that we are still not a go for your June 30th closing. So I have been trying to keep my mind occupied with others things like sports the past couple of days. Work really sucks right now because it is so hot and we have a huge (4000 people expected) 3 on 3 soccer tournament this weekend I am preparing for. So at the moment I am massaging my foot while I write. Here's a few things that happened this weekend I would love to share with all of you.

I can't remember the last time where I actually watched most of a PGA golf Major Tournament until the US Open this weekend. The shitty weather up north certainly helped, but I was really tuned in. As most of you already know I am a huge Phil Mickelson fan, even though he drives me insane more often then not. So the weekend had me hooked especially yesterday with the chances that came up for Lefty, but of course he came up short in a US Open again (5 times). Now I have to watch golf without the stresses that Phil gives me every weekend. Should I even bother watching the next couple of tournament without him? And that poor Barnes kid, I found myself rooting against him to fall, to make things interesting this weekend for the tournament. Then the guy really falls on Monday and I find myself feeling sorry for him because the poor guy could not find the fairway to save his life. If he was anything like me as a golfer he would have smartened up and aimed right so his ball would hook on the fairway. Players make adjustments, well I guess only players like me. Gotta hand it to Lucas Glover though, he hit timely shots even with having never been in that position before.

Am I the only one that feels Manny Ramirez should not be allowed to play in the Minors right now. What a crock!

It was Father's Day on Sunday and I totally forgot to get my father a gift. So like any good son would, I raced to Target early Sunday morning and bought him the book Crazy for the Storm. Suppose to be a very good father-son/son-father book so I came through. But what he really liked about the day was I also went to Redbox and got Gran Torino. We watched it together that morning and he was really impressed with the movie, probably because the Clint Eastwook character reminded him of his old man.

I bought my first piece of furniture for my new home yesterday. You get a nice sense of where my priorities are when I tell you that my first purchase was a television stand. Nice...bar stools next on the long list.

I'll get to the CWS in a later post tonight, but man what a first game. To quote Mike Patrick last night...

"Just another one of your typical College Baseball games in Omaha."

I couldn't have put it better myself Mike!

CWS Championship (Game 1 Preview)

Been taking a much needed break from the computer lately to focus on some reading, new home furniture, a friend from Georgia, and many hours relaxing on the couch because of the amount of work I have been doing outside. Well, first off I would like to add that college baseball got what they wanted for the start of tonight's best of 3 championship series between two of the game's biggest powerhouses. LSU (5 NCAA titles) and Texas (6 NCAA titles) do battle in Omaha for bragging rights for the nation's best team. Surprisingly these two standout programs have only faced each other in the CWS twice before tonight.

The overall #1 seeded Longhorns have gotten here the right way. Great defense, being patient at the plate, a little small ball with timely hits, and late inning drama. 8-1 throughout the tournament, Texas is living up to the one seed something I never saw coming. They will be starting their ace tonight with Chance Ruffin (10-2) and if he continues his strong pitching expect game 1 to go to the Longhorns.

The overall #3 seeded Tigers have gotten here by just being flat out good! I read from ESPN.com that since May 21, the Tigers own a 13-game win streak and have outscored their opponents by a 110-41 margin. They have ace Louis Coleman (14-2) on the mound tonight and if he gets an early lead it could be lights out in game 1. If you have watched the CWS at all, the Tigers aren't going to surprise you at all with what they do. Playing defense and scoring runs, it's that simple!

LSU takes Game 1 7-2

The HangOver

Forget about what you have read or heard about this movie. Just go and see it asap! I went with my brother Bill on Monday and I can't remember the last time that I saw a movie and was absolutely in pain from laughing like I did when I left. The 2nd Annual Deez' might be filled with this movie unless some other comedies step it up...ALOT! Forget your plans for this weekend and go see this film...now! What on earth are you waiting for!

Days 3 and 4 in Omaha

Still trying to get over the fact that we will not be seeing Cal State Fullerton the rest of the College World Series. But that is Baseball! The last two days in Omaha have been very lethargic to say the least, until the night cap last night. Virginia and LSU dominated Cal State and Arkansas Day 3, and North Carolina took care of business quite early against Southern Miss during the afternoon of Day 4. Then comes the reason why college baseball is so great. I was at the bar with my buddies, watching the Red Sox, Yankees, and the CWS. Arizona State was just taking it to Texas from the get-go and then before I could blink the score went from 6-0 to 6-3. Then to make matters worse for SunDevil fans the game that they hand in the palm of their hand went sour and the Longhorns absolutely took care of business the rest of the way and now the #1 overall seed is in the drivers seat sitting in the semi-finals awaiting their opponent. Just when you think you have a game won, student-athletes come together, put together some hits with pitchers throwing strikes and now you go from being a win away from the championship to fighting for you tournament life the rest of the way. I really am not at all putting blame on Arizona State, just it looked to me that Texas wanted the game more.

So to recap: Cal State Fullerton, Southern Miss are eliminated

LSU and Texas are in the semi-finals with no losses

Tonight we have a very intriguing match up between Virginia and Arkansas in an elimination match. Both teams were the hottest teams entering the tournament and playing in the tournament before the trip to Omaha. Expect nothing less than just good baseball from these top programs. Should be fun as usual!

Day 2 in Omaha

Most of you that read this know already that I am a pretty big Lou Piniella fan. One thing that has always drove him Nutz just as much as me is the when pitchers don't throw strikes. While coaching high school kids in my life, I kind of just dealt with it even though it drove me insane. Watching the Southern Miss Golden Eagles hand over a win because of walking batters brought me to drink myself to sleep. In the nightcap of Day 2, Texas took advantage of Southern Miss pitchers not throwing strikes. It's amazing to me that College, Minor, and Major League players even after all the coaching and all the games played that they still can't find the strike zone when it counts. Now because of walking in the winning run last night, the Golden Eagles have the pleasure to North Carolina Tarheels in an elimination game Tuesday. In the first game, which I missed, all of because of the foursome in front of us were taking their sweet old time hitting their shots into the woods, so I would like to thank them. From what I read it was the ultimate pitching game. Unlike Cal State, Arizona State started their #2 pitcher in Josh Spence and came out victorious. Now they have the luxury of starting their ace Mike Leake to advance to the CWS semi-finals against Texas Tuesday. I done told you about how the Tarheel bats need to come up in the tournament. Now they are fighting for their NCAA title lives against Southern Miss.

Today, we have great drama, with Cal State Fullerton on the verge of elimination at 2:00 against Virginia. And in then at 7:00, we have two SEC foes competing for the right to the semi-finals in Arkansas and LSU. It should be fun.

The Toe is on Break (perks of a teacher)

Here's the deal. I enjoy my job, but I love the summer break. Here's what a Teacher's summer is like and things that you might pick up as well:



Biggest accomplishment since end of school June 9th: Read The Road by Cormac McCarthy. Looking forward to the movie in October.



2nd Biggest accomplishment: Coming back to beat my brothers and father at golf today.



Right now: Nursing a little sun burn and Let's go Southern Miss!!!!



Current Employment Status: Math and GIS (geographic informations systems) teacher in Florida....Connecticut certification currently pending. Which means, 60/40 staying in Florida for another year.



Work Plans for Summer: Curriculum writing these next 4 days (hourly rate plus stipend) and 4 days job shadowing with Public works department (3 hours a day).....More than enough money for summer fun.



Vacation Trip: I know this might be A$$ backwards but, drive up to Connecticut July 3rd- August 5th.



Looking forward to in Fall: THE Adamant Wedding.



Tomorrows activity: Curriculum writing (easy cash), U.S.A. vs. Italy soccer at 2:30 ESPN, chilling by or in the pool.



Everday activity: drinking Cold beverages.



I know this post doesn't excite many, but I know a few aspiring or current teachers that read this. Hope your summer break goes as well as mine. Maybe I'll post more this summer now that I have more time. We'll see. Later.




The Road Trailer

Day 1 in Omaha

This is why I love our America's past time. Baseball is so unpredictable, but it can be so costly if you don't make the right decisions at the right times. I had a toss up in my picks with LSU and Cal State Fullerton winning it all and it all mattered on who I thought would win when they got through their first round match ups. Oh how I underestimated the underdogs in yesterday's games. In the first game of the CWS Arkansas handled the Cal State pitchers and hitters with much ease throughout the game. One thing that bothered me though was when Titans coach, Dave Serrano thought that it would be best to start a freshman in the opener (Noe Ramirez) instead of trying to win one game at a time and get the first victory out of the way with ace Dan Renken. Well, now they are going to have to win the CWS the hard way...win out. And it will start on Monday against ACC Champs Virginia who lost to LSU in the night cap. I think that I had told you all that LSU had the best outfield in the nation and they certainly proved my point in their win last night. Diving catches, clutch hitting, and power stroking was on display for the Tigers outfield. One thing that bothered me about the game was waking up this morning and finding write ups on the Internet saying the LSU "crushed" Virginia, not the case at all. The Cavs had the game if their relief pitchers through breaking pitches for strikes. Don't get me wrong, LSU really showed us last night that they are the class of the CWS as far as their offense is concerned, but the game last night was much closer than what writers are writing about today.

I am hitting the links with my brothers and father early this afternoon so I am going to miss the start of the best game of the tournament in my opinion at 2:00. But don't you miss it when two class A pitchers go head to head when probable starters Mike Leake (pick 14th in the Draft) and Arizona State face Alex White (picked 7th in the Draft) and North Carolina.

Deez' CWS Picks

After breaking down the two brackets, it doesn't get any tougher than making my selections. It sucks that LSU and Cal State will knock each other out early, oh well. So quickly before I hit the bed here's my breakdowns to each bracket until the final. Enjoy the CWS tomorrow, starts at 1 o'clock!

Bracket 2

1st Rd. - Texas defeats Southern Miss --- Arizona St defeats UNC
Losers Bracket - UNC defeats Southern Miss (Southern Miss eliminated)
Winners Bracket - Arizona State defeats Texas (ASU advances to semis)
Elimination Game - UNC defeats Texas (Texas eliminated)
Semi Finals - Arizona State eliminates UNC
Arizona State advances to Championship

Bracket 1

1st Rd. - LSU defeats Virginia --- Cal St Fullerton defeats Arkansas
Losers Bracket - Virginia defeats Arkansas (Arkansas eliminated)
Winners Bracket - Cal St Fullerton defeats LSU (Cal St advances to semis)
Elimination Game - LSU defeats Virginia (Virginia eliminated)
Semi Finals - Cal State Fullerton eliminates LSU
Cal State Fullerton advances to Championship

Cal State Fullerton wins the NCAA title 2 games to 1

Omaha Preview

Getting 5 out of 8 isn't half bad, huh? Well, I don't know about most of you but I have been thoroughly impressed with the College World Series so far. Besides the umpiring, the games have been good and all the best teams this season (for the most part) have made it to Omaha to find out who will finish as National Champions for the 2009 season. What I am going to do today is make a case for every team that is in the College World Series, on why they could and should win it all. Expect random posts throughout the World Series and predictions later on Friday. Enjoy!

TEXAS

The overall #1 national seed got through Texas State, Boston College, and Army in the Regional round, then got by TCU in 3 games in the Supers to advance. The Longhorns have a good line up that gets the bulk of their wins on your mistakes. Getting runners at the top of the order will fuel the positional game which means lots of sac bunt and moving runners to get an extra base. They can be contained, but not likely. With 5 upper classmen in the starting line up expect no mistakes on the field with timely hits on offense. They have one of the deeper pitching staffs in Omaha, which starts with ace Chance Ruffin (10-2) and ends with Austin Wood (15 Saves). Wood got a ton of hype after pitching 13 innings of no-hit ball in the Regionals against BC. If their pitchers can throw strikes and make their defense make plays for them, the Longhorns will be victorious in Omaha.

SOUTHERN MISS

The lowest seeded team left in the field. The Regional #3 seeded Golden Eagles got through Georgia Tech, Elon, and Georgia State then got by a stunned the #8 national seed Florida Gators in the Supers in 2 games. Head coach Corky Palmer has got his team to their first ever CWS and this team has a lot of grit to them. Especially when they plugged their way to the deciding victory of the Gators in game 2 after being down 5 runs. This feisty club is going to bother a lot of teams in Omaha, especially with their hard-to-strikeout line up that has a lot of pop with senior, Bo Davis leading the way (.371/14/53). Todd McInnis (9-4) and JR Ballinger (6-3) have been tough throughout the tournament and if they stay hot watch out Omaha we might have another Cinderella lurking around.

ARIZONA STATE

The national #5 seed has gotten through Oral Roberts, Cal Poly, and Kent State in the Regionals then took care of business quickly against Clemson in 2 games. One of the more impressive teams all season long has been the SunDevils. Loaded with a ton of pitching, after their first game we will get a great sense of how this team will fare. The best pitcher statistically, and in my own opinion left in the tournament is junior Mike Leake. The kid is just impressive! 15-1 with 150 Ks and an ERA of 1.36 does the kid only some justice on paper. He might be better than what his stats show. His sidekick Josh Spence isn't half bad either and will throw the occasional "efface" pitch to his opponents. Their line up is very good for a PAC -10 team with a lot of power coming from stud catcher Carlos Ramirez and centerfielder Jason Kipnis. Oh by the way be on the lookout for a celeb in their line up, Johnny Ruettiger is the nephew of...you guessed it, Rudy from the movie.

NORTH CAROLINA

The national #4 seed was able to breeze through Coastal Carolina, Kansas and Dartmouth in the 1st round regional then got through East Carolina with ease in 2 games in the Supers. We haven't seen much of CT's own Matt Harvey during the tournament but expect him now. Along with upper classmen Alex White and Adam Warren the Tarheels are set for pitching and are ready to make another run at a NCAA title. But, we all know about how good their pitching is, crap...they have been good for 4 straight seasons. The offense is really going to be key in Omaha. The recently drafted 2nd overall pick of the MLB Draft, Dustin Ackley is an absolute star, but he can't do it alone. Freshman 2B Levi Michael cannot play like a freshman in Omaha or the Tarheel will be leaving early. Michael (.298/13/56), Ackley (.412/22/70), and catcher Mark Fleury (.315/12/59) will have to do what they did all year driving home their teammates at the right time.

CAL STATE FULLERTON

The national #2 seed has gotten through the tournament so far with much ease, defeating GA Southern, Gonzaga, and Utah in the Regional round then embarrassing Louisville in 2 games in the Supers. Another loaded pitching staff totally under the radar before the tournament began, but only because of their age. Led by their super soph Dan Renken (11-2) who everybody already knows about, but he is only a third of the story. Making a run at another CWS title will rely on how freshmen studs Noe Ramirez (9-1) and Tyler Pill (11-2) will be the key to success. They all have live arms that will keep batter off balanced throughout the game. Their starting line up has 6 batters that batted over .330 this season. They all can steal a base at any time and beat opposing pitchers up if they fall behind in counts and have to throw fastballs right down the cock, which Khris Davis (16 HRs) and Jared Clark (12 HRs) love.

ARKANSAS

The Regional seeded #2 Razorbacks got through the likes of national #7 Oklahoma, Washington State and Witchita State, then took care of business against a highly talented Florida State team in 2 games. There is really nothing special about Arkansas and that is why they are so fun to watch. Because all they do is just win! Unfortunately for them they had a week off to cool down because coach Dave Van Horn has got them playing baseball the right way at the right time. Their line up runs around SS Ben Tschepikow. He does everything right at the plate. If their starting pitchers get 5-6 good inning, their bullpen will shut you down. Led by closer, Stephen Richards, the Razorbacks victories over the Seminoles was key from the success of the bullpen getting the job done when need be.

VIRGINIA

The Regional #2 seeded Cavs got through the toughest Regional bracket with UC Irvine, San Diego State, and Fresno State, then got by an Ole Miss team that took them to the brink of elimination twice in the Super Regionals best series. The ACC Champs just want to keep playing, because they just keep on winning. Defying all odds Virginia is hot and staying hot and probably are wishing the World Series started on Monday. Freshman Danny Hultzen is tough with a 9-1 record this season, it'll be fun to see how he throws against LSU in the 1st round. With a starting line up consisting of only 2 juniors, 3 sophomores, and 4 freshmen the Cavs have been very, very loose and I can only imagine what this team could do if they stay hot. No team in the field wants to play this team right now and I can't say that I blame them.

LSU

The national #2 seeded Tigers took care of business with ease in the Regionals against Minnesota, Baylor and Southern U., then got by a good Rice team in 2 games in the Supers. Along with Cal State, LSU has been the most impressive team in the tournament so far. A starting line up that consists of no seniors, is certainly acting like they have done this before. When you get a chance to watch this team play you won't find a better outfield than what the Tigers send out there in Ryan Schimpf, Mikie Mahtook, and Jared Mitchell. The thing is though, everyone in their line up can get it done with power, which not only makes them dangerous but hard to pitch to. If you get to their bullpen you might have a shot, but it is a very narrow one. Their starting eat up inning like it's a home cooked meal, especially Louis Coleman (13-2).

Bryce Harper

He is the most talented 16-year-old in baseball today. He was on the cover of last week's Sports Illustrated so I decide to look for him on youtube. There are tons of long videos but I wanted to get to the point right away. Here is him taking batting practice at Tropicana Field in Tampa earlier this year. Amazing for 16!

20 More Days

This just in to The Nutz, I will be closing on my new home in 20 days. That's right boys and girls your boy Deez will be a home owner at the end of the month. I wanted to post it on here before I start making some calls. It's a foreclosed 3 bedroom/2 full bathroom house filled entirely with tile flooring. Not kiddin, the whole house has tile including my huge back porch. It's a smaller home, but really how much does a guy like me need. The home inspection went very well on Friday and I am happy with the report I got on Monday. So I decided let's do it! The wait is finally over and now I can honestly say that I will be broke forever now. The anticipation is driving me insane because there is just so much to do to my new house. Painting and a lot of landscaping features are first on my list. So start getting your bags packed to my peeps up north because a new party house will need some CT love real soon. Here's a few pics of the place:

Zack Morris is Back!

Is He Going 2 Be Worth it?

Steve Strasburg is getting so much hype right now, that people that don't even follow college baseball know his entire story. In today's draft the Washington Nationals are going to have to come up with a lot of money for this phenom, something they sure don't have a lot of. But, his agent Scott Boras isn't an idiot. He knows what his client is worth and how much he should get. And even though he will be dealing with the Nationals, if they want his client they are going to have to pay for him. This kid is getting more hype than any college pitcher you could ever think of. Many scouts think that he is Major League ready right now! Since the Nationals spring training facility is less than an hour and half away, I am thrilled with the fact that I could see him pitch next spring. I just hope, for the Nationals sake, that he will be worth it to the organization and become an absolute star. Unlike these hyped college pitchers in the past:

- Ben McDonald 1st pick in 1989 by Baltimore

- Paul Wilson 1st pick in 1994 by New York Mets

- Kris Benson 1st pick in 1996 by Pittsburgh

- Matt Anderson 1st pick in 1997 by Detroit


- Mark Prior 2nd pick in 2001 by Chicago Cubs


- Todd Van Poppel 14th pick in 1990 by Oakland

June 6th, 1944

The Normandy Landings were the first operations of the Allied invasion of Normandy, also known as Operation Neptune and Operation Overlord, during World War II. The landings commenced on June 6, 1944 (D-Day), beginning at 6:30 British Double Summer Time (H-Hour). In planning, D-Day was the term used for the day of actual landing, which was dependent on final approval. The assault was conducted in two phases: an air assault landing of American, British and Canadian airborne troops shortly after midnight, and an amphibious landing of Allied infantry and armoured divisions on the coast of France commencing at 6:30. The invasion required the transport of soldiers and materiel from the United Kingdom by troop carrying aircraft and ships, the assault landings, air support, naval interdiction of the English Channel and naval fire-support. There were also subsidiary 'attacks' mounted under the codenames Operation Glimmer and Operation Taxable to distract the Kriegsmarine and the German army from the real landing areas. The operation was the largest single-day amphibious invasion of all time, with 160,000 troops landing on June 6, 1944. 195,700 Allied naval and merchant navy personnel in over 5,000 ships were involved. The landings took place along a 50-mile (80 km) stretch of the Normandy coast divided into five sectors: Utah, Omaha, Gold, Juno and Sword. The Allies had previously invaded mainland Europe September 3, 1943 with the landings in Italy.

Total allied casualties (killed, wounded, missing, or captured) are estimated at approximately 10,000.These comprised:United States–6,603, of which 1,465 fatal.United Kingdom–2,700.Canada–1,074, of which 359 fatal.

-Wikipedia



People always ask me why Saving Private Ryan is my favorite film of all time. This opening scene tells it all for me. Many of us Americans don't appreciate enough what happened 65 years ago today. We need to start and remember all the lives that were lost for the future of our country.

CWS Tournament (Super Regionals)

After correctly picking 10 out of 16 of the Super Regionals I am feeling pretty damn proud of myself. This is probably the toughest tournament to pick winners from because baseball is that damn good, but I am pretty sad to see that only one #3 seed advanced. Let's get right to a preview for the 8 Super Regional match ups for the right to advance to Omaha.

#1 TEXAS VS. TCU

The Longhorns had possibly the most interesting 1st round out of all the top seeds. A blow out victory, a 25 inning marathon, and a walk-off homer. While the Horn Frogs, swept their way to the Supers with ease defeating Oregon State in the final of the 1st round. While many think that Texas doesn't have the offense to win, TCU unfortunately doesn't have much pitching to compensate. The first game is key to the series for TCU. With their ace on the mound in pitcher and freshman, Kyle Winkler, putting the pressure on the Longhorns will build them confidence to advance to their first ever CWS.

#8 FLORIDA VS. SOUTHERN MISS.

The only 3 seed to advance to the Supers, Southern Miss. found a way to defeat Georgia Tech twice and advance to their first Super Regional. The Gators, who I gave no shot against Miami, romped the Hurricanes in the 1st round finale to advance. The Gators starting pitching is a lot better than i first thought, to which they should have no problem advancing to Omaha. But, not so fast! The Gators are going to have to...have to swing the bats because the Golden Eagles are going to throw strikes, make plays in the field, and get runners on base. Their head coach Corky Palmer is Southern Miss baseball and will be retiring at the end of the season. And with a veteran ridden team, don't expect them to go quiet into the night when Southern Miss and Palmer are this close.

#5 ARIZONA STATE VS. CLEMSON

One of the best teams in the nation all year round, the SunDevils, got through the first round in 4 games. While the Tigers got a scare and defeated Oklahoma State in the finale to advance. Clemson's offense is dangerous, like I mentioned in my preview, unfortunately Arizona State's pitching is way to good to withstand a lineup like the Tigers. Mike Leake (15-1), is the best of the best left in the CWS. And the SunDevils also have Josh Spence (8-1) and in a best of three series I find it hard to believe that they will have any trouble with Clemson's offense led by firstbasemen, Ben Paulsen.

#4 NORTH CAROLINA VS. EAST CAROLINA

Like I expected all the top seeds advanced in the Arizona State Bracket. But, the one team my that I wasn't all that confident in was the East Carolina Pirates who squeaked by South Carolina in the Regional finale. While the Tarheels had no problem like I expected, taking care of business in three games. Has there ever been a team like this Tarheel class who is looking for their forth straight trip to Omaha? Loaded again with offense and a deep pitching pitching this Tarheel team looked unstoppable in Regional play. One thing that could poise a problem is that the bottom of their line up is streaky, and if they don't come up in a best of three series, the dynasty run could come to an end.

#2 CAL ST FULLERTON VS. LOUISVILLE

The best "team" in the CWS is Cal State, sweeping their competition in the 1st round. The Cardinals knocked off a feisty Vanderbilt team to advance, even though they were the only Big East team to make the field of 64. I am desperately trying to find a way to make a case for Louisville in this match up, but the only one is 3B Chris Dominguez and his 23 HRs and 80 RBI. Cal State is way too experienced, offensively and defensively, and their pitching is quite good. With a line up with all .300 hitters, I am expecting nothing less than a two game sweep over the Cardinals in impressive fashion.

FLORIDA STATE VS. ARKANSAS

As I expected, the Razorbacks got through their 1st round Regional by defeating the overall #7 seeded Oklahoma Sooners. While on the other hand, I gave the Seminoles no shot in their Regional and they got through in only 3 games by scoring 37 runs in the finale verses Ohio State. FSU has arguably the best coach in the college game in Mike Martin, and even though I doubted them last round they are poised to advance to Omaha despite having most of their line up filled with sophomores. Arkansas is one of 4 SEC schools to advance to the Supers. Their starting pitchers will give up some runs so the offense is going to have to step it up against the Seminoles freshmen starting pitchers early.

VIRGINIA VS. MISSISSIPPI

In what could possibly be the best match up in the Super Regionals, the ACC champion Caviliars got by the overall #6 UC Irvine Anteaters, while Ole Miss made it interesting by defeating a pesky Western Kentucky squad. Virginia is on fire! The pitching/defense/offense are all peaking at the perfect time, and I should have known better than picking against them in the 1st round. So a first trip to Omaha is very likely as long as they keep it up against a Rebels team that is looking for a 5th trip but 1st since 1972. Ole Miss wins with defense and and getting guys on base and the Cavs are going to have to get lead-off men out in order to contain the Rebels getting men in scoring position because that is what they do best.

#3 LSU VS. RICE

You look at this match up and the first thing you say to yourself is, why now? Rice and LSU are both notorious for landing in Omaha and they proved it in the Regional round by both teams taking care of their opponents with ease, even though Rice did it in 5 games they were very convincing in their victories. In a three game series, the Owls can beat the Tiger, but i don't know if it is possible. The Tigers were my early favorites before the field of 64, but the draw wasn't to favorable with the chance of facing this Owls team. Rice will throw juniors Ryan Berry and Mike Ojala who's combined record for the season is 12-1 with both pitchers having an ERA under 2.00. But, LSU is LSU they can beat you in every aspect of the game if your not careful. Offensively they are loaded at the top of the line up with LF Ryan Schimpf leading the power surge.

It should be a great weekend of baseball...enjoy!

Could He Be the Last?

Randy Johnson is going for his 300th victory tonight against the Washington Nationals. During his mid-twenties no one thought that this current 45-year-old had it in him to get to this point. But he has! And it begs the question... Who will be the next pitcher we see it the monumental number 300? Let's take a look at the active players closing in...

With 250 wins and at the age of 46, I like Jamie Moyer, but he is out!

Andy Pettitte is at 220 and he maybe has a couple years left.

Pedro Martinez and John Smotz are at 214 and 210 respectfully, let's face it there's no chance.

Knuckleballer Tim Wakefield is at 189, does he really have 111 wins left...I don't think so.

Bartolo Colon and Livan Hernandez are both in the low 150s, bigger chance of them going on a diet then getting to 300.

Roy Halladay just turned 32 and is currently at 140. Possible, but the way the Jays throw him not likely!

131 at 31 for Roy Oswalt, needs to turn into a Greg Maddux to have a shot with his size frame.

CC Sabathia, now we're talking. Turning 29 this july and with 122 wins, we have a chance. He plays for a winning team that will score him runs when needed. It's very possible with CC.

Johan Santana...Another possibility? The 30-year-old has 116 wins, can beat you with smarts and movement of pitches. Also, playing for a team that can go and get players to produce at the plate.

So you can see that it is going to be a while if it does indeed happen, but we are certainly going to have to wait a while. So remember Randy Johnson tonight, so one day you can tell your kids (or grandkids) that we got a chance to see the last 300 game winner in Major League Baseball.

This Day in Sports

It's just another one of those days in sports. Where things happen to happen on the same exact day as another memorable moment. Here's a few anniversaries we are celebrating today, June 2nd.

BABE RUTH RETIRES Many experts, among others, say that he was and is the greatest player the game has ever seen. And today he hung up his jersey for the final time in his historic career. Many don't know this but he ended his career with the Boston Braves, after playing part of the season in 1935. One of the more amazing stats that Ruth holds is that 4 times he hit for more than 50 homeruns for a season in the '20s, but that is not the remarkable thing. The amazing thing is that only 2 players hit over 50 during that stretch.

LOU GEHRIG DIES At the very young age of 37, one of the best players the game has ever seen and the first "iron horse" as he was called, was taken from a fatal disease now baring his name. Finishing 7 homers short of 500, Gehrig is more famously known for playing in 2130 consecutive games. The streak ended when Gehrig became disabled with the fatal neuromuscular disease that claimed his life two years later. His streak, stood for 56 years until finally broken by Cal Ripken, Jr. He finished his career with 2 AL MVPs and 6 World Series Championships.

TED WILLIAMS ENLISTS IN NAVY If baseball is always known for statistics, just imagine what could have been if Ted Williams didn't leave the game of baseball for heading to protect our country. Williams missed 3 1/2 seasons of baseball, 3 of them during the prime of his career. Known for being an absolute hitting genius, Williams numbers do indeed stand out but just imagine what could have been. .344/521/1839 also finishing with just over 2600 hits. He still owns the career OBS percentage record of .482. This 17-time all-star is best known by myself for doing something no one of his caliber has ever done, which was hitting a homer in his final Major League at-bat.

KEN GRIFFEY JR DRAFTED BY THE MARINERS There hasn't been many #1 picks of the MLB Draft where you can say, "Hey we made a Hall of Fame choice with our selection." Well, that's what the M's did on this day 22 years ago today. Only three overall top draft choices come to mind when you say the "best 1st pick ever", Alex Rodriguez and Chipper Jones are the others. For his first ten seasons in Seattle he finally gave the fans something to see and cheer about on a daily basis. Which ultimately led them to being able to build a bigger and better stadium. Griffey was the state of Washington for 10 years and in my opinion was the best player of the 90s. He is not the same player he was back then, but Griffey is part of the 600 HR club and is less than 300 hits away from 3000.

USA, USA, USA........

I apoligize for not giving a Championships League Finals preview....I'm so disappointed in myself. Barcelona won. It was a good match, not as exciting as last years. I'm just glad Cristiano Ronaldo and Powerhouse Manchester United lost..I hate his arrogance. He reminds me of A-Rod and the Yankees.

Coming up this week is two matches for our beloved USA squad in their Road for the 2010 World Cup. Playing Wednesday night at 10:00 against Bryan Ruiz, Costa Rica and then on Saturday in Chicago against Honduras, who believe it or not, are probably one of the toughest opponents in their grouping in order to qualify for the World Cup. Why should you watch? The U.S. is starting to form their team with talent from the experienced (Landon Donovan, Oguchi Onyewu) and welding it with the young gunz (Freddi Adu, the coach's son Michael Bradley, and Jozy Altidore). If and when Adu and Altidore are on the field at the same time you'll probably not want to fall asleep. These two can put on a show, which the U.S. is not accustomed to. Adu reminds me of Bob Cousy with the ball, but he does it all with his feet! Altidore himself scored a hat trick last USA showing. Also, keeper Brad Guzan will play either date. If you don't know who he is, think of Brian Urlacher, with hair and with a goalie shirt. He'll play like Urlacher would too. Even if your not a big fan I suggest you TiVo it just in case. I guarantee Adu or Altidore will be on top plays Thursday.
As for predictions...USA should roll against Costa Rica, but as a team they play tentative away. Honduras will be a good test, but in Chicago, USA should win:

June 3rd (USA 2-0)
June 6th (USA 1-0)

Also, heads up for June 15th and 18th when USA plays in the Confederations Cup. They open with Italy on the 15th and Brazil on the 18th. It will be interesting to see how they match up right now. I think USA matches up well with the Defending World Cup champs. Remember or NOT, they tied during USA's dismal tour in 2006.

Monday's Sports Quiz

Since Mr. Smith is going to constantly use the Internet to find his answers I am going to make it harder for all of you. Well not exactly. Today's questions have everything to do with dimensions. I think that it is pretty easy, but we will see. I won't give any clues at all. Good Luck class!

1) In the world of sports what is 4.25 inches in diameter?

2) In the world of sports what is 60' 6''?

3) In the world of sports what does 15 ft represent?

4) In the world of sports what is 18' 6'' wide?

5) In the world of sports what is 6ft x 4ft?

Lebron's a Spoiled Little Kid

During my drive back home from Orlando, all I heard on talk radio was Lebron James' actions after losing Game 6 to the Magic Saturday night. All of his life he has spoiled himself because of the great talent that was given to him. And it all came out after losing Saturday night. Lebron is under a huge microscope and I get that. He's only 24 years old and has just finished his 6th NBA season, it's time to act like a professional Lebron. He says that he is a winner and a huge competitor. Ok, thanks Lebron. I think that mostly every professional athlete is a huge competitor, maybe they haven't won as much as you, but they go out every night and try their best to win. I am sure that he had no problem facing his losing opponents in the first two rounds after defeating them this playoffs. I don't agree with how Dwight Howard acts all the time, but he should have been given a proper hand shake from his Olympic teammate, Lebron, for a job well done and good luck. I was sent a text message earlier this week from Shorty that said, "Lebron is not Michael Jordan...Jordan never missed a clutch free throw in his life.". Referring to Lebron's missed free throw with a minute left in game 4. I have always been so sick of the Lebron/Michael comparisons since James hit the big stage. And he has proved my point that he will not ever be the next Jordan. Jordan would have took the loss like a man, even though he would hate it, and give his post game hand shakes and face the media in the post game conference...always! Lebron acted just as bad as when Chicago finally solved the Detroit Pistons and we saw Isaiah Thomas and company leave the court with 11 seconds before being defeated by the Bulls. Like I said I know Lebron is only 24, but he is a professional and it's high time to grow up. Are we really suppose to think that an email to Howard yesterday solved everything? The big picture is, is that Lebron has just been a spoiled athlete his entire life. He's nothing less than just a big sore loser. Am I really suppose to believe that he is going to stay in Cleveland after acting the way he did the other night. Lebron is going to try to get his own way, just like a kid at the candy store begging his mother for a Reese Cup and whining until he receives his piece of candy. You lost Lebron...grow up!