NHL and NBA in Baltimore

Baltimore will always be a football and baseball town. I mean, crab cakes and football, that's what Maryland does, right? We used to do baseball too; hopefully again soon. But how cool would it be if Maryland did hockey and basketball too?

To some it may sound like an idea they have no interest in, but turn on a TV around this time of the year. The Capitals series against the Rangers that just finished up was insane, and the series against the Penguins that starts on Saturday should be much of the same. We are about to see an Ali vs. Frasier caliber fight with Ovechkin and Crosby going at it on the ice. And what about the NBA game that just ended tonight. The Bulls and Celtics went into 3 overtimes of madness in Chicago tonight, and the whole series has been nothing but drama and crazy finishes. Contrary to some belief in Baltimore and Maryland as a whole, hockey and basketball are exciting sports to watch sometimes, and how much more fun would they be if it was your hometown team playing?
I know two new teams in Baltimore would never be on the same level as the Ravens and O's to me, because that's the way I was brought up; loving Baltimore baseball first and Baltimore football after 1996, because that's all we had. But to see two new teams in two different sports for Baltimore to call it's own...I would definately be a fan.

The truth is, right now the NHL and NBA wouldn't even consider Baltimore as a spot for a new team. The reason for that is not because of lack of fans, or lack of a market, but the lack of a premier indoor sports venue. Oh wait, we have 1st Mariner Arena right? I think that that building already sucked when it opened in 1962. Baltimore is a top of the line city for sports in the NFL and MLB, so why shouldn't Baltimore have a state-of-the-art arena as well and attract an NHL and an NBA team? 1st Mariner Arena is obviously compeletely out of date to any one who looks at it. Its 14,000 seats are about 6,000 or 7,000 short of being big league caliber in terms of indoor sports, and technology in the building is non-existant.

I know there have been talks of a new arena being built. Apparently they are "still looking for developer and designers". These talks need to cease, and action needs to be taken. After watching the NBA and NHL all winter, I want a Baltimore team in those leagues to cheer for and call my own like I do with the Orioles and Ravens. I want that excitement for the few months between football and baseball season. It would be great for the city, and great for the city's fans. I have no doubt that arena would be packed for every game for each of the teams. People in Maryland love sports and we love our teams. Build somewhere for them to play, and those teams will be our own. Hopefully it won't be long before we see a beautiful new arena in Baltimore and two new teams to cheer for. Here's and idea for names: In the NBA, bring back the classic Baltimore Bullets name of old, and in the NHL, the Baltimore Pirates, because the Pittsburgh Pirates don't matter anyways, and what would look harder than a skull and crossbones on a hockey jersey?



J.F

Six Terps Signed as Undrafted Free Agents

In my post from yesterday about how the Terps fared in the draft, I said that there were a few players that I was surprised were not drafted, but that I thought would be picked up by teams as undrafted free agents. Just that has happened, plus a few more:

Jeremy Navarre, DL - Signed by the Jacksonville Jaguars

Dave Philistin, ILB - Signed by the Seatlle Seahawks
Edwin Williams, C - Signed by the Washinton Redskins

Scott Burley, OT - Signed by the Washinton Redskins

Chase Bullock, LB - Signed by the Arizona Cardinals

Isaiah Williams, WR - Signed by the Baltimore Ravens

All of these players will have the opportunity to work hard throughout the summer at their respective training camps, and try their best to make an NFL roster. Who knows, maybe come the end of August there will be 11 new Terps in the NFL (5 drafted, 6 undrafted free agents).

J.F

Five Terps Headed to the NFL

Out of 15 total Maryland Terrapins football players the declared for the 2009 NFL Draft, 5 were selected on Saturday and Sunday in New York City. Some will have a lot to live up to (Heyward-Bey), and others may fit great into their future team's makeup (Barnes). Read 'em and weep, here are the 5 Terps heading to the NFL:

1. Darrius Heyward-Bey, Wide Reciever - 1st Round, selected 7th Overall by the Oakland Raiders
2. Kevin Barnes, Cornerback - 3rd Round, selected 80th Overall by the Washington Redskins
3. Moises Fokou, Linebacker - 7th Round, selected 230th Overall by the Philadelphia Eagles
4. Jaimie Thomas, Guard - 7th Round, selected 236th Overall by the Indianapolis Colts
5. Dan Gronkowski, Tight End - 7th Round, selected 255th Overall by the Detroit Lions
   

I am surprised not to see Jeremy Navarre (DT), Dave Philistin (ILB), and Edwin Williams (C) on this list. Look for these three to be signed somewhere as undrafted free agents and make a run at a spot on a team throughout training camps this summer. I wish all of these former Terps above the best of luck in making their teams' rosters, and having great careers as NFL players.

J.F

3 Things That We Learned From the Draft

1. The Raiders never fail to leave people saying, "What just happened?":
With the 7th pick in the 2009 NFL draft, the Oakland Raiders select...not Michael Crabtree...not Jeremy Maclin...but, Darrius Heyward-Bey, wide receiver from the University of Maryland. What? We all expected Heyward-Bey to go in the 1st round, but not in the top-10, or as the first receiver taken in the draft. Anyone who was watching the Draft on Saturday heard that pick, and turned their head to the side and looked at every person in the room as if to say, "Is that a joke?". I am a huge fan of DHB, I wish him the best in Oakland, and I hope he enjoys the fat paycheck coming his way; but, over Crabtree and Maclin? We will have to see if the Raiders know what they are doing.

2. The Ravens believe in their wide receivers:
Coming into this years draft, it was said by all that the Ravens top priority in the draft was wide receiver. Looking at the 6 players the Ravens selected: none of them are WRs. It looks like an Anquan Boldin trade is all but out of the question at this point, and that in 2009 the Ravens will most likely field the same receivers from last years AFC Championship team, maybe with the addition of a late free agency pickup. Mason will once again be the workhorse, with Clayton hopefully stepping up even bigger than he did last season, and we are all praying that Demetrius Williams finally stays healthy and has the break out year we've been waiting for. I'm content with them for the future, and with the job that they did last year, although I would still love to see that bona-fide #1 receiver wearing Ravens purple: for example, Anquan Boldin or Braylon Edwards.

3. Joe Flacco will be well protected and has a good chance at staying healthy for a long time:
Michael Oher, the 24th overall pick by the Ravens, will turn out to be a vital and valuable addition to this Baltimore team. At first, I was a critic of the pick. Me and B.J texted each other for an hour afterwards about how we were confused, and somewhat disappointed by the pick, and even how it could have been a pick to add to a package deal for Anquan Boldin. In my head all I was thinking was offense, offense, and offense, and I wanted to see Hakeem Nicks picked in the 1st Round by the Ravens, after Heyward-Bey and Pettigrew were off the board. But after thinking about it for a while, picking Michael Oher is an offensive pick, because it is a pick that helps to ensure the long term protection of our franchise quarterback, Joe Flacco. I now love the fact that the Ravens drafted Oher, and he seems to be a humble man with a great character; something that the Ravens stress. With Oher, Gaither, Birk, Anderson, and Grubbs forming the small army known as the Baltimore Ravens offensive line, Joe Flacco should have all the time in the world to find the best place to put the ball down field, and the running game will improve as well. I am now a huge fan of this pick, and I am looking forward to seeing Oher suit up in purple and perform on Sundays, hopefully as our new Jonathon Ogden.


J.F

HUC's 2009 Mock Draft

Who needs McShay and Kiper when you have the HUC?

1. Lions - (JF & BJ) Matthew Stafford - QB - Georgia
2. Rams - (JF & BJ) Jason Smith - OT - Baylor
3. Chiefs - (JF) Aaron Curry - OLB - Wake Forest; (BJ) Tyson Jackson - DE - LSU 
4. Seahawks - (JF & BJ) Mark Sanchez - QB - USC
5. Browns - (JF) B.J Raji - DT - Boston College; (BJ) Aaron Curry - OLB - Wake Forest
6. Bengals - (JF) Brian Orakpo - DE - Texas; (BJ) B.J. Raji - DT - Boston College
7. Raiders - (JF) Michael Crabtree - WR - Texas Tech; (BJ) Jeremy Maclin - WR - Mizzou
8. Jaguars - (JF) Eugene Monroe - OT - Virginia; (BJ) Michael Crabtree - WR - Texas Tech
9. Packers - (JF) Aaron Maybin - DE - Penn State; (BJ) Eugene Monroe - OT - Virginia
10. 49ers - (JF) Jeremy Maclin - WR - Mizzou; (BJ) Brian Orakpo - DE - Texas
11. Bills - (JF) Brian Cushing - OLB - USC; (BJ) Aaron Maybin - DE - Penn State
12. Broncos - (JF) Josh Freeman - QB - Kansas State; (BJ) Robert Ayers - DE - Tennessee
13. Redskins - (JF & BJ) Andre Smith - OT - Alabama
14. Saints - (JF) Malcolm Jenkins - CB - Ohio State; (BJ) Brian Cushing - OLB - USC

15. Texans - (JF) Robert Ayers - DE - Tennessee; (BJ) Malcolm Jenkins - DB - Ohio State
16. Chargers - (JF) Michael Oher - OT - Ole Miss; (BJ) Knowson Moreno - RB - Georgia
17. Jets - (JF) Knowshon Moreno - RB - Georgia; (BJ) Everette Brown - DE - Florida State
18. Broncos - (JF) Clay Matthews - OLB - USC; (BJ) Chris Wells - RB - Ohio State
19. Buccaneers - (JF) Tyson Jackson - DE - LSU; (BJ) Josh Freeman - QB - Kansas State
20. Lions - (JF & BJ) Everette Brown - DE - Florida State
21. Eagles - (JF) Hakeem Nicks - WR - UNC; (BJ) Donald Brown - RB - UCONN
22. Vikings - (JF) Vontae Davis - CB - Illinois; (BJ) Brandon Pettigrew - TE - Oklahoma State
23. Patriots - (JF) Larry English - DE - Northern Illinois; (BJ) Darius Butler - DB - UCONN 
24. Falcons - (JF) Rey Maulaluga - ILB - USC; (BJ) Vontae Davis - DB - Illinois
25. Dolphins - (JF & BJ) Darrius Heyward-Bey - WR - Maryland
26. Ravens - (JF) Brandon Pettigrew - TE - Oklahoma State; (BJ) Rey Maualuga - LB - USC
27. Colts - (JF) Chris Wells - RB - Ohio State; (BJ) Hakeem Nicks - WR - UNC
28. Bills - (JF) James Laurinatis - ILB - Ohio State; (BJ) Alex Mack - C - Cal
29. Giants - (JF) Peria Jerry - DT - Ole Miss; (BJ) Kenny Britt - WR - Rutgers
30. Titans - (JF) Percy Harvin - WR - Florida; (BJ) Alphonso Smith - CB - Wake Forest
31. Cardinals - (JF) Donald Brown - RB - Connecticut; (BJ) Percy Harvin - WR - Florida
32. Steelers - (JF) Eben Britton - OT - Arizona; (BJ) Max Unger - C - Oregon

Kevin Barnes: NFL Draft Hopeful, and Big Hit Machine

With the draft this Saturday and this stud of a University of Maryland cornerback, Kevin Barnes, most likely going in the 2nd-4th Round range, I thought I'd give a little flashback to a warm day in College Park this past September where he layed a vicious hit on Jahvid Best of California. I could watch this hit everyday for the rest of my life and it will never get old. We'll see where he gets picked this Saturday (or Sunday). I think he will definately be a solid pickup for whatever team gets him.

Bergesen Does Not Disappoint in 1st Major League Start

We knew that Brad Bergesen had good stuff in the minors, but who knew that he would be so dominant in his first career start as a major-leaguer? Bergesen started on Tuesday night against the Chicago White Sox and went 5.2 innings giving up only 1 ER on 4 hits; pretty solid numbers for the young pitcher, straight out of Norfolk.

Brad Bergesen showed command against the White Sox hitters, and his sinker looked practically un-hittable. He fanned 4 over his 5.2 innings in the game, and gave Orioles fans everywhere something to smile about after seeing sub par pitching starts in 3 of the 4 losses in Boston. If these are the types of pitching performances that we can expect from our young guns on the Tides and Baysox, then bring a few more of them up now, and get Simon and Eaton out of here. Put Brian Bass on the same plane. I loved seeing a young Orioles product succeed last night, and I hope that it is only foreshadowing the strong pitching prospects that will make their way into the O's rotation and bullpen over the next season or two.

It wasn't only the pitching that was hot in the 10-3 win last night though; the bats were on fire. Aubrey Huff jacked 2 long balls; one that sailed over the right field foul pole and onto Eutaw Street, and the other to the bleacher seats to put the icing on the game. Nick Markakis stayed hot at the plate and went 4 for 4 with 3 singles and a double, driving in 2. He currently leads the American League in RBIs at 18, and is 6th in batting average at .389. It is great to see multiple Orioles listed toward the top of all of the offensive statistical categories. Now let's just get O's at the top of the pitching categories and we might be a legitimate threat in the AL East.

I like the promise shown by Bergesen on Tuesday night. Sure, the kid's a rookie, every start isn't going to go his way this season. But, he showed us last night that he has the stuff to succeed at the top level, and I can't wait until his friends from Norfolk come into town as well.

O's vs. White Sox - Part II - Tonight at 7:05PM on MASN
Jeremy Guthrie (2-0) vs. John Danks (1-0)



J.F

Text Messages: NFL Draft Edition

As the draft gets closer and closer, everyone is wondering what the Ravens will do, and everyone has their own opinion of what will occur. The truth is, not even the Ravens front office knows what is going to happen right now. They have an idea of what they would like to happen, but until Saturday, nothing will be set in stone. Here is mine and BJ's text message conversation from earlier today, touching on some of our views for the upcoming draft and effects that it will have on the Ravens 2009 season, and future.

BJ: Some people are saying the Ravens will draft Pettigrew and then trade Heap and picks to 'Zona for Boldin

Me: I think that's stupid. I think they will trade McGahee and a pick, by Thursday if it's going to happen. We need Heap one more year.

B.J: And what about running back?

Me: We'll be fine with McClain, Rice, and one more, I would think. Maybe draft another RB in like the 4th. McClain ran the show last year.

Me: People I'd want if we don't get Boldin: Derrius Heyward Bey, Brandon Pettigrew, Rey Maulaluga, and maybe Nicks. People I don't want to waste a 1st round pick on: Larry English and Kenny Britt.

B.J: I'm not sold on Britt. That's the one thing with an underrated WR in the draft. They could be the next Housh' or they could be a repeat of Travis Taylor.

Me: Yea, I don't like Britt as a 1st rounder. I have a bad feeling about him.

B.J: I think the talent pool is shallow this year.
Me: I agree

So, there are some of our views on the upcoming draft. Both B.J and I feel that Boldin is the right way to go, although we may have to trade something valuable to get him. We will see as the week goes on. One thing we know for sure is that by Sunday night, the Ravens will have added a good list of future contributors to their roster, whether Anquan Boldin is included in that list or not. The NFL Draft will air on ESPN and the NFL Network on Saturday April 24th.

J.F

Big Man on the Farm: Nolan Reimold

Help is on the way; eventually. The Norfolk Tides lineup alone right now shows at least 4 or 5 players who are sure to have long careers in the Majors. We've all heard the non-stop talk about Matt Wieters, who is going to be a great Oriole eventually, but let's focus on another player in that Norfolk lineup right now who is putting up great numbers so far in this young season. That player is Nolan Reimold.

Reimold is a 6'6", 205 lb, outfielder who has been great at the plate so far in 10 games for the Norfolk Tides this season. In those games, Reimold has hit .457, with 3 HRs, 14 RBIs, 17 total hits, 8 runs scored, a double, and 4 walks. If those aren't great numbers 10 games into the season, I don't know what is.

In the 2008 season while at Bowie, Reimold played in 139 total games, batting .284 with 24 HRs, 84 RBIs, 29 doubles, 144 total hits, 87 runs scored, and 63 walks. By looking at numbers like this at the AA level, Reimold can be strong through a whole season, so look for his big numbers that he is putting up already in 2009 at Norfolk to continue through the summer months.

I think that it is very encouraging to see numbers like this being put up just one step from the majors, especially while we are seeing the likes of someone like Felix Pie struggle badly up to this point for the Orioles. Pie has not shown the strong fielding, strong arm, or strong bat that he was advertised as, and through 13 games I think that Orioles fans are already sick of seeing him struggle. Why not give Reimold a shot at it sometime soon, because from what I have seen so far, he could turn out to be a future familiar face in the Baltimore outfield. I think that if Pie continues to not put up the numbers that he is expected to, we could see a switch between he and Reimold, and Nolan could get his shot at the majors. When that day comes I don't expect Reimold to look back, but instead make a name for himself in Baltimore, much like Brian Roberts and Nick Markakis did, being brought up in the Baltimore system and breaking into the majors at a young age. Look for Matt Wieters to do the same, but we'll concentrate on him in another Big Man on the Farm segment.

J.F

Look-a-Likes: Featuring Gregg Zaun

So this could be the start of something new on H.U.C, who knows, but I thought it would be fun to call out some of the look-a-likes of Baltimore sports figures or any sports figures with other people (celebrities, friends from down the street, etc.) I will start out the (hopefully weekly) madness by this one:

Orioles Catcher Gregg Zaun AND Jackson Stewart from Hannah Montana (Jason Earles):

J.F

Text Messaging, and Magically Disappearing Seven Run Leads

You know your a Baltimore Orioles fan when seeing a 7-0 lead disappear before your eyes doesn't surprise you anymore. I know, I know, I'm being a little harsh because I'm bitter over the type of game that occured tonight, but for good reason. The O's looked great at times tonight in Boston, but it was the little things that they didn't do that costed them a 7-run lead and eventually the game.

One example that eventually proved to cost the game: Aubrey Huff's error. It's little things like that which seperate playoff teams, and teams that haven't been above .500 in 12 years. It's a shame to see such a good offensive output in the top of the 2nd inning go to waste. Hopefully they can erase this game from their memories quick and come out strong once again tomorrow. They're going to have to; Adam Eaton is starting. I love the team the O's have this year (although some better pitching wouldn't hurt at all), so I hope that they will work out the kinks and get this show back on the road. 6-4 in this young season isn't a bad place to be sitting, but they can't start letting up now. Leaving Boston splitting the series and being 8-5 would be great for the Birds. That, however, will take a lot of hard work, and being able to hold on to a huge lead if that opportunity arises again.

On another note, I thought it might be fun and maybe funny to read the text message conversation that B.J and I carried on from Maryland to Florida throughout the game. This basically happens every night from about 7:05 to 11PM:

B.J: Freel is the '09 Most Valuable Oriole
Me: You think he will be?
B.J: Ha. More like most likely to out drink you.
Me: Never.
B.J: This is just what Guth needed tonight, an early lead
Me: What's going on? I'm at work until 8:30.
B.J: GRAND SLAM KAKES! IT'S 7 NOTHING!
Me: Dude! That's crazy. We already have 2 grand slams in 10 games.
B.J: 7 run second.
Me: Wow. That helps.
B.J: 7-2 :( and followed by a walk.
Me: Dang
B.J: 7-4
Me: Wow

Later on in the game after the Red Sox tie the game up and eventually take the lead. Matt Albers has just come into the game and is not hesitating to load up the bases.

B.J: This is rediculous
Me: We suck
B.J: We have no pitching

In the meantime, Matt Albers works his way out of a bases loaded and no outs situation by way of a strike out and double play ball.

Me: That could change the game
B.J: Hell...the season. We'd be a contender with some sort of decent pitching.
Me: Haha I meant Albers getting big and getting out of the inning.
B.J: Oh. Haha.

Top of the 8th, Aubrey Huff at the plate with 2 on and 2 outs.

B.J: I'm calling a three run shot.
Me: I'm calling a fly out.

Aubrey Huff eventually struck out, and the O's went on to lose 10-8 after going up 7-0, and I haven't heard from B.J since. Goodnight all.


J.F

The BOLD and Beautiful NBA Playoff Picks

According to Michael Smith of the Worldwide Leader of Sports, the Baltimore Ravens are the favorite to land the Arizona Cardinal wide out, Anquan Boldin. With the Philadelphia Eagles trading for the Buffalo Bills' OL Jason Peters AND the New York Giants in talks with Braylon Edwards, the possibility of acquiring a big-time, franchise wide receiver is rather realistic. 

My initial thoughts would be for Mr. Ozzie and DeCosta to trade AT LEAST our 1st and 3rd round picks for Boldin. Essentially, Boldin would be our 2009 Draft selection. 

I'm ALL for this scenario unlike the fact that the Red Sox are slowly creeping back into the game tonight. 

Now for some NBA picks....

2009 NBA PLAYOFF PREDICTIONS

FIRST ROUND

Eastern Conference

Cleveland Cavaliers def. Detroit Pistons in 4

Miami Heat def. Atlanta Hawks in 7

Orlando Magic def. Philadelphia 76ers in 5

Boston Celtics def. Chicago Bulls in 5

Western Conference

Los Angeles Lakers def. Utah Jazz in 6 

Portland Trail Blazers def. Houston Rockets in 5 

Dallas Mavericks def. San Antonio Spurs in 7 

Denver Nuggets def. New Orleans Hornets in 5

CONFERENCE SEMIFINALS

Eastern Conference

Cleveland Cavaliers def. Miami Heat in 6

Orlando Magic def. Boston Celtics in 6

Western Conference

LA Lakers def. Portland Trail Blazers in 5

Denver Nuggets def. Dallas Mavericks in 6

CONFERENCE FINALS

Eastern Conference

Cleveland Cavs def. Orlando Magic in 5

Western Conference

LA Lakers def. Denver Nuggets in 5

NBA FINALS

LA Lakers def. Cleveland Cavs in 7

Kobe > LeBron

Cleveland = one losing city.

Kobe finally wins one without the big fella.  

A Bold Move

Yesterday and today it has been widely reported that the Arizona Cardinals are going to shop wide receiver Anquan Boldin to teams that are interested in trading for him. I think that I know of an east coast city with a certain purple and black wearing football team that would love to take him in.

Has a big-play, proven, All-Pro wide receiver not been the missing link since the Ravens began as a team? Sure, they could go out and get the 3rd or 4th best WR on the board with the 26th pick in next weekend's draft, but why not go get Boldin by trading that 1st and 3rd round picks that they are asking for? You would be getting better then a 1st round draft pick could give you right out of college, a player that has already proven himself in the NFL, and someone who has clearly stated that he wants to win a championship and will do everything in his power to help his team do that.

The Ravens finally have a franchise quarterback. We all sat through the painful Sundays of trying to watch Jeff Blake throw to Travis Taylor, Chris Redman throw to the other team, and Kyle Boller trip over his own feet while literally "dropping into the pocket"; and then laying on the ground. How great would it be to finally have that one receiver that could single-handedly change a game, in any game at any given moment. Joe Flacco came out last season as a rookie and proved that he was going to be a player that would make his mark in the NFL. With a receiver like Anquan Boldin to throw to, that mark could be so much bigger by the end of Flacco's career.

A 1st and a 3rd round draft pick is what the Cardinals have stated that they want in exchange for Boldin. That sounds like a good deal to me. We would most likely just be drafting a wide receiver in the 1st round anyways. Just think of Anquan Boldin as the Ravens' 1st round pick for this year.

If I was the Ravens, I think that the reward completely outweighs the risk. Does Boldin have some character issues? Maybe. The dude did leave the stadium during the NFC Championship victory celebration because he was benched during the game due to an injury. Things like that could be scary when you look at a player like this. But, Boldin has come out and said that he was not happy with the Cardinals as an organization, and I think that a change of scenery, such as coming to Baltimore, could help keep that character in check. Besides, his issues are no where near as bad as say, Terrell Owens, who almost suited up in a Ravens uniform a few years ago. I think that the Ravens could completely deal with Boldin on the team, and if anything happened, Ray Lewis would have no problem body slamming him to calm him down. He would in no way ruin the development of Joe Flacco as a young quarterback; I think he'd completely accelerate it.

Some people are saying that there are other teams interested in Boldin, such as the Eagles and Giants, but the Ravens have also been mentioned in all of those conversations, such as on SportsCenter this morning. I think that the Ravens should get something done soon if they are going to do it, so that he doesn't slip away. Personally, I think that Anquan Boldin would be a perfect fit for the Ravens and I think he could be the final link in making the Ravens a Super Bowl caliber team. They have the defense, they have the running game, and they have the quarterback. All that has been missing all these years is right in front of us, and I hope that the Ravens seriously consider making a move for Boldin. A wide receiver drafted in the 1st round could make a serious impact in probably 3 years; Anquan Boldin could make and impact immediately. This guy would be immediately embraced by this city and be an instant fan favorite. Come to Baltimore, Anquan. Trade for Boldin, Ravens. Now we just have to wait and see what happens.

O's (6-3) @ BoSox (3-6) tonight at 7:05PM. Isn't it great to see our records flip flopped once in a while? We will see if the Orioles can bounce back from that pitiful performance on Wednesday, where the Rangers touched the plate 19 times. Guthrie will be on the mound looking to start the young season 3-0. That is all.

J.F

High 5's & Low 5's from Tuesday's Game

HIGH 5's

Adam Jones: ESPN's Peter Gammons named Adam Jones the AL Breakthrough Player of '09. I think he knows what he's talking about. Jones went 2-4, 3 RBIs, a run scored, and one amazing outfield assist. Jones is increasingly growing amongst the Birdland fan base. I love how he makes everything look so quaint and simple as he pops his bubble gum.
Dennis Sarfate: I was quick to criticize Sarfate last week but he brought it all together last night. Manager Dave Trembly called Sarfate into the game in a pivotal role early in the 2nd inning. Sarfate pitched 3+ clutch innings, striking out 3 and allowing just one hit. as well as taking one in the chin from the beefy Aubrey Huff.
Brian Roberts: Not only is B-Rob the official "man crush" of HUC, he is also on fire at the plate. Roberts went 3-5, increasing his season average to .441 - if the season ended today, that would be a record.
Luke Scott: LUUUUKE! That is all.
Brian Matusz (Frederick Keys): The San Diego Stud started last night for the Frederick Keys. Striking out 6, he did surrender one home run in five full innings of pitching. Matusz heads the class of the young arm in our farm system which includes Jake Arrieta, Troy Patton, and Chris Tillman.

LOW 5's

Alfredo Simon: Just look at the box score - 1.1 IP, 4 H, 3 R, 3 ER, 3 HR, 9.95 ERA.
George "Charlie Brown" Sherrill: Look, I loved this guy last year. The hat, the build, the character. So far, in this short season - he is echoing the spirits of Jorge Julio and Armando Benitez. I think it's time for Trembs to pull the rug from under him and name Chris Ray the closer.
Chris Davis: I benched Texas' first baseman on my fantasy team after a lackluster first week of the season and what does he do to me? He torches the O's starting rotation with two monster round trippers. The jerk.

A familiar face will start for the opposing Texas Rangers tonight. Kris Benson will face-off against the O's Mark Hendrickson. The over-under of Gary Thorne comments in reference to Kris' wife: 2.5.

More later.

BJ

Ravens 2009 Schedule Announced

The NFL announced the 2009 schedules for all 32 teams today and for the Ravens, hopefully this is the preliminary sketches for another AFC Championship run; and hopefully even more than that.

After finishing 11-5 last season and making a surprise appearance against the Steelers for the AFC title, Joe Flacco, Ray Lewis, and all of the Ravens, new and old, will be looking forward to this season, and having a chance to try it all over again. The Ravens will play three primetime games in 2009; one at home on Sunday November 29th against the Steelers, and 2 Monday Night Football games on the road: Novemeber 16th at the Browns, and December 7th in frigid Green Bay against the Packers.

Here is the schedule:

September 13 vs. Kansas City Chiefs - 1PM

September 20 @ San Diego Chargers - 4:15PM

September 27 vs. Cleveland Browns* - 1PM

October 4 @ New England Patriots - 1PM

October 11 vs. Cincinnati Bengals* - 1PM

October 18 @ Minnesota Vikings - 1PM

November 1 vs. Denver Broncos - 1PM

November 8 @ Cincinnati Bengals* - 1PM

November 16@ Cleveland Browns* - 8:30PM - (MNF on ESPN)

November 22 vs. Indianapolis Colts - 1PM

November 29 vs. Pittsburgh Steelers* - 8:20PM - (SNF on NBC)

December 7 @ Green Bay Packers - 8:30PM - (MNF on ESPN)

December 13 vs. Detroit Lions - 1PM
December 20 vs. Chicago Bears - 1PM

December 27 @ Pittsburgh Steelers* - 1PM
January 3 @ Oakland Raiders - 4:15PM

* - AFC North Division Game

The schedule looks to be an exciting one, and a challenging one at the same time, with a lot of the teams being very improved from last season. I think that a very difficult time of the season for the Ravens is going to be the stretch of November 8th to December 7th, where they will play away games in Cleveland and Cincinnati, at home against Indianapolis and Pittsburgh, and then away in primetime against the Packers. That stretch of the season will be crucial to the way that the Ravens season turns out in the end.

Who doesn't love predictions to get them excited about a season, so here is my pre-draft 2009 Ravens prediction: 11-5, and a playoff berth

The Ravens have the 28th ranked Strength of Schedule so hopefully they can take advantage of that, and make another deep playoff run with a much more experienced team, in 2009.

O's vs. Rangers at 8:05PM on MASN. Alfredo Simon will make his 2nd start for the Birds after losing his first start to the Yankees. The kid's got some good stuff. Let's see how he does in Arlington tonight.

That's all for now. The O's are 5-2 and looking good. Get behind the team this year. They are young and talented, and who knows what they could do with some solid fan support.

J.F

Orioles vs. Yankees Series Notes

After the first three games of the Orioles season, I'm satisfied. So far there is some to worry about, but a lot of be excited about. The Birds are 2-1 after their first series with the Yankees, who are supposed to be 2nd in command to God, and they had a very good showing in some players that we were unsure about heading into the season.

Highlights:

• Adam Jones, Nick Markakis, and Brian Roberts: These guys have already come out in the first three games and set the tone for the offense, and defense, for the rest of the season. After three games, Jones is batting .400 with 3 RBIs, 4 runs scored, a triple, and a double. Markakis leads the team in almost every offensive category, batting .500 with 1 HR, 5 RBIs, a double, and 4 runs scored. Brian Roberts, the 31 year old Orioles veteran that can always be counted on, is batting .417 with an RBI, a double, 3 runs scored, and a stolen base. Look for these 3 to lead the offense all season long. I have a feeling that Markakis and Jones are both going to step up huge and make their names known throughout the baseball world.


• Koji and Jeremy: There were so many questions heading into the season about all of the Orioles starters, but if Guthrie and Uehara can pitch the way that they both did in their first starts, we know that the Orioles will have at least two very solid starters in the rotation. Both won their starts in this series, with Guthrie going 6 innings and giving up 3 runs on 7 hits, and Koji going 5 innings and giving up 1 run on 5 hits. Against another team these stats may not sound so stellar, but its the Yankees. I expect Guthrie and Uehara to both have solid years, especially after seeing them show in this series that they can produce against the best teams in the majors.


• The Camden Yards crowd: How great was it to hear the boos rainging down on Mark Teixeira all 14 times he came to the plate in the series. I was at the game yesterday, and even when the Orioles were losing by multiple runs, the crowd was still into it and Teixeira still got it given to him every time he stepped into the box. I really hope that the Baltimore crowd can get excited for this team and back them up, becaue when you have the support of a city behind you, crazy things can happen. The people of Baltimore are ready to see baseball back as a priority in this city, and I think that this team can take a huge step in helping to do that.
  

Lowlights:

• The Orioles Bullpen: I thought it was our bullpen that was supposed to be great, and our rotation that was supposed to suck? It was the other way around in these three games. Wednesday night Dennis Sarfate almost blew at 7-2 Orioles lead as he came in for the 9th inning to end the game, and instead gave up 3 runs, including a Derek Jeter homer, and let the Yankees get within 2. George Sherrill then came in and immediately gave up a double, but eventually got the last out for the O's victory. And then there was Brian Bass on Thursday, who was nothing short of awful in his 2 innings pitched. Coming into the game with the Orioles down one and still with a legitimate chance to rally, he gave up 5 runs after having a chance to get out of a bases loaded situation, and throwing a 10 foot toss past catcher Chad Moeller and extending the Yankees offensive explosion. For the first two games the starting pitching and the offense made up for the lack of bullpen help, but the last game proved that we may need the bullpen to be solid to win sometimes, and if they aren't, the Orioles could end up giving up a lot of late inning runs as this season progresses.


• Seeing Mark Teixeira succeed: The first two games were great for O's fans like myself that will probably always hold a grudge against this man until he retires. But on Thursday he did his part to laugh in the face of the people booing him and showed that his slump would not last. In the third game of the series, an 11-2 Yankees win, Teixeira went 2-5, crushing a homerun to left center, and scoring twice. I hope that the boos are as loud as they were this week, everytime that this man comes into The Yard.

Overall, there is a lot to look forward to for this team. The Orioles won their first series against a team that many (such as myself) are predicting to represent the AL in the World Series this October. I feel that if our starting pitching is on, our offense can show more of what it did this week, and our bullpen can chill out and pitch the way that we know they are capable of pitching, this team could take big steps and make huge improvements this year. I'm satisfied for now, and I'm more excited for this season than I have been in a while for a season. I have a wierd feeling this team may surpass a lot of expectations. The Rays are in town this weekend. We will see what happens with Hendrickson, Guthrie, and Eaton making starts in the series. How great would it be if the O's can go 2-1 against the Rays as well, and start out 4-2 against two of the top teams in the American League?

On another note, please keep the family and friends of Nick Adenhart in your prayers. This is a truly sad event involving the 22 year old L.A Angels pitcher from Silver Spring, Maryland, who had a lot of baseball left to play, and a lot of life left to live.

Peace and love.

J.F

Monday's Naughty / Nice List

the Naughty:

Josh Beckett - Bush league bean town clown. What kind of heart does this guy have throwing at the head of the Angels' Bobby Abreu? With the week that organization has gone through, I don't blame Torii Hunter a second for flipping out. And how dare you, Joe West, for turning your head to the whole ordeal. 

Ray Allen - (see Mr. Beckett) Quick anecdote: My brother was a big fan of Chris Paul while he played for Wake Forest UNTIL he delivered a low blow to NC State's Julius Hodge in the ACC tournament. He said, "that ANY man who did that should lose any respect immediately." Don't give me that excuse that he was 'just trying to get up'. That was blatant. 

Dennis Sarfate - This guy has all the talent in the world. Canon of an arm, fantastic charisma, and an acting répertoire which is highlighted by the 2008 'Orioles Magic' video, yet he lacks major control.

Adam Eaton - Ugh. (What else is there to say?)

the Nice:

'Baltimore' back on the Away Jerseys - Tonight will be special. This feat goes beyond my lifetime.

Hanley Ramirez aka Han Ram - My #1 overall pick in our fantasy league this year has propelled me with mid-week lead over my opponent. Han Ram is leading the Marlins to a sensational 3-0 start, with a .400 batting average, six RBIs, and a grand salami.

MLB Xtra Innings - Thank you, thank you, thank you! The brilliant PR people of Xtra Innings are giving a FREE week preview of their MLB package. They may have just won another customer once this concludes.

Angel Cabrera - This is why golf is the greatest sport in the world. One week you have a guy like Tiger Woods, Camilo Villegas, or Adam Scott who work out constantly, monitor what they eat, and practice relentlessly in order to win a championship. Then there come the likes who made it to the 3 man sudden death playoff last night at the Masters (Kenny Perry, Chad Campbell, and winner Cabrera). Here's to you for smoking a pack of cigarettes a nine, pound a bottle of Jack after, and never put down to the fork. 

Phil Mickelson - May the record show that we at HUC are 'Tiger-guys' and it made my Easter dinner to see the Hefty Lefty choke, yet again. Heck, us HUCs could've drowned that 3-footer. 

Hannah Montana - She has the best of both worlds and her movie debuted #1 this weekend. 

The WHY NOT 2009? Campaign

It has been mentioned the past few months by some (including B.J on his blog over at WNST.net), but hopefully if this city can stay optimistic about our team we can get a lot of people on board with t-shirts, posters, etc, and hopefully back this team and motivate them to a respectable season. The crowd sounded great on Opening Day, and there's no reason it shouldn't sound like that every night. This is our team, now lets make them feel like it, even though there may still be some things we aren't happy about. Look for more on the Why Not 2009? Campaign which we at H.U.C are going to do our best to get out there, hopefully with a lot of help. Its Orioles baseball, a Baltimore pastime. Get excited. 20 years later, let's do it again.

J.F and B.J

Masters Predictions

So the Masters starts tomorrow, which is my favorite golf major every year and in my opinion the best of the four, and BJ and I have made our picks for winner, winner's score, and dark horse pick (a.k.a the person who will win if Tigers Woods doesn't). With the golf majors and baseball starting, you can almost smell summer on it's way. I love it.

Read 'em and weep:

BJ's Picks:
Winner: Tiger Woods at -8
Dark Horse: Camilo Villegas

Josh's Picks:
Winner: Tiger Woods at -12
Dark Horse: Zach Johnson

O's vs. Yanks Part II tonight at 7:05PM on MASN. Make sure to watch Koji's first start of what is hopefully a great career in America and as an Oriole. BJ will check in later with his thoughts on the beginning of the season and Opening Day memories from the past. Happy Hump Day.


J.F

Tongue Twister: Samari Solidifies the Secondary

BaltimoreRavens.com is reporting that the Ravens have signed Samari Rolle to a 4-year contract. The 32 year-old cornerback will return to the team, and most likely finish out his successful career in a Ravens uniform.

Reports flurried a few weeks ago that Rolle wanted out of Baltimore, and the Ravens were going to let him go on his way, but it looks like after some time he and the team have both had a change of heart. Rolle will join returning starter Fabian Washington and new free agent signees Domonique Foxworth and Chris Carr at the cornerback position.

At the end of the season when it looked like the Ravens defense would take a step back for sure after losing Defensive Coordinator Rex Ryan, and notable players Bart Scott, Chris McAlister, Jim Leonhard, possibly Samari Rolle, and possibly Ray Lewis, the Ravens are going to be heading into the 2009 season with one of the most solid secondaries in the NFL, and as always, a very solid defense overall . With Washington and Foxworth likely starting and Carr and Rolle backing them up, the cornerback position is finally deep with experience, skill, and potential. Ed Reed and Dawan Landry will play behind them at the safety positions. Reed is an annual star, and one of the NFL's best at the safety position while Landry has proven his solidity in the time he has spent on the field, although he suffered a season ending neck injury in Week 3 this past season.

Ozzie Newsome never fails to have control. With four solid cornerbacks at this point, this opens up the draft to address other team needs, and most likely go with the traditional Ravens draft technique: best player available. Stories like this get me off of my baseball high on Opening Day, and get me looking forward to the NFL draft later this month. I'm very excited to see what this Ravens team is going to do next season.

A quick note on the O's Opening Day game today against the Yankees. The game has been moved from 4:05PM to 4:20PM. I'm not exactly sure why but I just saw it on ESPN during the Mets vs. Reds game. I'll check back in later with an O's first game recap. Hopefully the weather stays calm enough to play a baseball game.



J.F

A Great Week in the Sports World

Does it get any better than this (other than the first four days of the NCAA Tournament)? What a great week for sports we have in front of us. For one, today marks the official Opening Day of the MLB season. The Orioles will take on the Yankees at Camden Yards at 4:05PM on ESPN if the rain holds off, and baseball will be on daily until the end of October. Hopefully the O's give us something to get excited about this season. There are a lot of questions still, as I mentioned in my post the other day, but I am still stoked for the season to start. It's Orioles baseball in the springtime, and thats enough to get me excited.

Also, tonight the NCAA Basketball Championship will be played at Ford Field in Detroit in front of about 75,000 fans at the stadium, and millions around the world. Who will it be? The favorites from the start, North Carolina, or the feel good, blue collar, hometown team in Michigan State? It has all the makings of a classic, and I know that after watching the O's start their season, and hitting the books for a little bit, I will be glued to my TV with some of Wing Zone's finest watching to see which of the top-10 teams that Maryland beat this season will be crowned this year's NCAA Champion. Tip off is set for 9:21PM EST on CBS.

And then there's the classic American tradition starting on Thursday; The Masters at Augusta National. Year after year, this golf tournament provides great finishes and signals that summer is on the way. Tiger Woods has to be the favorite to win this tournament, even though he is coming off of knee surgery. With his win two weeks ago, he is looking strong again, and there is no doubt that he will be in his major tournament form and show us that Tiger is back and just as good as before. I really think that he will pull off a victory at Augusta this weekened, and that will be a huge story, especially after the recovery that he has had to make the past few months following his injury. Definately look for Mickelson, Perry, Ogilvy, and others to make this thing dramatic though, as they won't go down easily. Tiger does have his work cut out for him, but he has proved time after time that he can handle that work and more.

Overall, what a great week for sports. Spring is in the air, summer is on the way, and the drama and excitement in the sports world will not disappoint, at least for this week. Enjoy.

J.F

Bye Bye Boller

After six years on the Ravens, Kyle Boller is packing his bags for St. Louis. Boller was signed by the Rams today, after spending all of last year on the Baltimore sideline with an injury. In his career with the Ravens, Boller passed for 7,846 yards (a Ravens franchise record), 45 touchdowns, and 44 interceptions; a 71.9 overall quarterback rating.

I wish Boller the best in St. Louis. He did what he could in Baltimore, and it was not an easy job for him to hold for most of his career, with no weapons at wide reciever, and starting in the NFL right out of college. Although his career as a Raven will always be scarred by his inconsistency, I respect him for the work he did, and I hope that he does well as a Ram backing up Mark Bulger. If Bulger continues his downward spiral that he has been on the past few season, we may even be seeing Mr. Boller starting in the near future. The Ravens are set at backup quarterback as well, with former Heisman trophy winner Troy Smith still on the team and recently re-signed veteran Todd Bouman in the #3 spot on the depth chart.

J.F

Something of Note in the NCAA Championship

After last nights games in Detroit, North Carolina and Michigan State will play for the National Championship on Monday night. Other than being the only two teams left in the NCAA Tournament, these two teams also have something else in common: Maryland beat both of these teams this year. On Thanksgiving, Maryland took down then #5 Michigan State 80-62 in Orlando, and then on February 21st in College Park, Maryland beat then #3 North Carolina in an 88-85 overtime thriller.

Although Maryland's season wasn't as successful as most people would've liked to see, I think that this is something very encouraging for this young team, and for Maryland fans. So when you are watching the championship tomorrow night as these two great teams square off, remember what they both have in common, and also the heart that the Terps had in a rebuilding year. Who do you think will win it all in Detroit? I have a feeling that Michigan State, the hometown team, could pull it off.



J.F

Calipari's Impact on Maryland

At some point next week, every University of Maryland men's basketball fan may need to send John Calipari a thank you card. Thank you in a wierd way.

With Calipari moving from Memphis to Kentucky late this week, top recruit Xavier Henry is reportedly seeking to now play at Kansas instead of Memphis because of this coaching change as reported on ESPN today. Henry origially had committed to Memphis, along with 2 of the other top-6 recruits in the country. Lance Stephenson, a top-10 recruit and #1 on the Terps radar, was supposed to announce his school decision in Miami this week at the McDonalds All-American Game festivities, but postponed his decision until this coming week. We know that his choices were down to Kansas, Maryland, and St. Johns and that he was probably about to decide on Kansas; a recent National Champion and a historic place to play the game of basketball. With Xavier Henry, the #1 recruit in the nation, now probably going to Kansas instead of Memphis, does this mean that the Terps could potentially be Stephenson's top and most sensible option right now? At Kansas Stephenson would most likely spend his first year or two playing behind Xavier Henry until Henry left for the NBA. At Maryland, Stephenson would be an instant starter, and make an instant impact on the program, even if he would seek to go to the NBA after one or two years.

It will be interesting to see what his decision is in the coming days, but how great would it to see Stephenson and Vasquez running the show, with some newfound size in new recruits Williams and Padgett inside, combined with the rest of the the talent that this team already has ready to step up (Hayes, Bowie, Tucker, Gregory, Burney, Kim, etc). I think with that mix of new and veteran talent, this team could be comparable to the Florida State team of this year, finishing the season solid in the ACC, in the top-20, and be a favortie to make at least the Sweet 16 in the 2010 NCAA Tournament. The ball is in Stephenson's court right now, but hopefully that ball will be in Maryland's court come November. We will see what he decides this week.


J.F

Monday, Monday, Monday

Baseball season is upon us ladies and gentlemen. At 4:05PM on Monday the Orioles will open up the 2009 season against the New York Yankees, and 6 months of baseball will be off to the races in Baltimore. The team that will take the field has a lot of promise and potential, and at the same time leaves a lot of questions to be asked. Could we see a .500 season for the first time since the mid-90's? Will one pitcher emerge from this sparse rotation as an "ace", and help bring this team to the next level? Will we see the chosen one, Matt Wieters, and will the hype be worth it?

Some of these questions about the team may be a cause for concern, but regardless, it is the beginning of April and I know that I am nothing short of pumped for the beginning of this baseball season. We know the Orioles are going to score a lot of runs. The offense is there and the consistency is getting there. We know that the defense will be strong. Look across the outfield for example. Markakis, Pie, and Jones. We will definately see our share of Web Gems in Baltimore this season, and for a long time. Many parts of this team are as solid as the best teams in the majors, but there is still one thing lacking and that is the pitching. I will put that in the back of my mind though and be optimistic that our staff can step up and bring this team to where they should be. I'll keep my glass more than half full. I'll also be bold and say that within 4 years the Orioles will be at least a Wild Card team. Hold me to that. I believe in this lineup and I think that for once the front office may have a grasp on getting things under control.

Who will be the standout players, homerun leader, RBI leader, Orioles MVP, etc. you ask? Let me fill you in on what Fergalicious thinks will happen in 2009.

Orioles MVP: Nick Markakis

Home Run Leader: Aubrey Huff - Prediction: 33

Batting Average Leader: Brian Roberts - Prediction: .304

RBI Leader: Nick Markakis - Prediction: 110

Most Wins: Koji Uehara - Prediction: 14-9 Record

Most Frequent "Web Gemmer": Adam Jones

Final Record: 77-85

That's all I have for now. Get excited. Its baseball season in Baltimore, and although I may be expecting more than I should for this year, it doesn't get any better than spring and summer nights at The Yard. See you out there on Thursday at 1:35PM if you'll be there.

J.F

HUC '09 MLB Preview

"O's. Strohs. and Natty Bohs, Hon!"

This is the official stud scouting of the '09 MLB Season from your Hunks Under Center. Be sure to print out a copy and hang it over your bed and treasure it until October when you see how silly we are at foreseeing the future.

 2009 Awards

AL MVP

Josh: Grady Sizemore, CLE - (also the winner of Most Valuable Sideburns) 

BJ: Josh Hamilton, TEX - (also the winner of the Official Man Crush)

NL MVP

J: Manny Ramirez, LAD - (the official halloween costume of HUC) 

B: Manny Ramirez, LAD 

AL Cy Young

J: C.C. Sabathia, NYY

B: Roy Halladay, TOR

NL Cy Young

J: Johan Santana, NYM

B: Dan Haren, ARI

AL ROY

J: David Price, TB

B: Matt Wieters, BAL

NL ROY

J:Cameron Maybin, FLA

B: Jordan Zimmerman, DC

Postseason Winners

Josh's Picks - BJ's Picks

AL East: New York Yankees - New York Yankees

AL Central: Minnesota Twins - Cleveland Indians

AL West: Oakland Athletics - Los Angeles Angels

Wild Card: Tampa Bay Rays - Boston Red Sox

NL East: Philadelphia Phillies - Philadelphia Phillies

NL Central: St. Louis Cardinals - Chicago Cubs

NL West: Arizona Diamondbacks - Los Angeles Dodgers

Wild Card: New York Mets - Arizona Diamondbacks

World Series

Josh: New York Mets defeat New York Yankees

BJ: Los Angeles Dodgers defeat New York Yankeees