I Wanna Be Like Mike...Fontenot

Since being called up from Triple-A, Cubs' infielder Mike Fontenot is doing it all including batting an astounding .408 in 20 games and solidifying a spot in the everyday line-up for the red hot Cubs

At only 5'8'' 170 pounds, the Cubs' newest infielder packs quite a pop.

Since being brought up for the second time this year on June 9 and starting since June 10, Mike Fontenont has helped the Cubs go 10-6. During that stretch, the Cubs swept the rival White Sox at U.S. Cellular and the Colorado Rockies at Wrigley to give them their current six-game winning streak.

The Louisiana native knows a thing or two about winning since Ryan Theriot and him won the College World Series at LSU back in 2000, in which Fontenot was named to the all-tournament team while batting .462. It looks like little as changed with this offensive fire-starter. In 20 games, Fontenot is hitting an incredible .408 with eight doubles, two triples, three homers, 13 RBI's, scored 15 runs, and has a .455 OBP. In the recent three-game sweep of the Rockies, the second baseman went 9-for-13 including a 5-for-5 performance in the Cubs wild ninth-inning victory 10-9 to open the series. The 5-for-5 night featured two doubles, two RBI's, and two runs.

Today, Fontenot showed that little men can play a big man's game by going 3-for-4 including a towering 415 foot solo homer. The homer impressed all his teammates including starter Carlos Zambrano who said, "I didn't know that short men could hit the ball like that. He hit the ball like a man. I feel happy for him" (http://www.chicagocubs.com/). Fontenot's pop-single in the first that was lost in the sun extended his career-high hitting streak to 10.

If your wondering how the Cubs acquired Fontenot, look no further than GM Jim Hendry. Fontenot was brought over from the Baltimore Orioles in the Sammy Sosa deal along with OF Jerry Hairston and RHP Dave Crouthers. So all those that thought the Cubs got nothing for Sosa they would be greatly mistaken. Two years since the trade, Fontenot is paying huge dividends, while Hairston and Sosa are Texas Rangers and no one knows who or where Crouthers is.

With the way Fontenot has been hitting all year, including Triple-A in which he was batting .340 in 54 games with 17 doubles, four triples, and six homers, it's clear that the little, big man can hit. Another thing that is a certainty is his amazing production in the two-spot for the rest of the year.

With the Milwaukee Brewers set to invade Wrigley on Friday to start an important three-game series, the Cubs will need Fontenot to remain on fire. With his humble attitude, don't expect anything to change as the Brew Crew meets the newest Cubs star this weekend.

By Sunday afternoon, the Brewers will understand why there's a new Mike in Chicago that Cubs fans want to be like.

Cubs' Pitching Staff Commanded by the Carlos'

In the past month, the Cubs have begun to figure things out thanks to the phenomenal pitching of starter Carlos Zambrano and reliever Carlos Marmol

Both have nasty stuff. Both are intimidating on the mound. Both are named Carlos.

Since June 1, Carlos Zambrano has truly begun a "new season," while Carlos Marmol has been lights out since he was brought up from Triple-A on May 18.

The fiery, intense, and hard-throwing Carlos Zambrano is beginning to live up to his prediction that he would win the NL Cy-Young this year. In his last four starts since June 1 and the Michael Barrett scuffle, Zambrano is 3-1 with 1.14 ERA. His most recent start came yesterday against the White Sox in which he went eight strong innings, struck out 12, gave up one earned run, and walked only one. Yesterday's game was Big Z at his best. Zambrano's stuff was electric with his breaking balls falling off the plate and fastball hitting as high as 95 mph. Big Z will look to continue his dominance Wednesday against the Colorado Rockies in which he will get to bat again. If his brilliance on the bump isn't enough, Zambrano is batting .273 with two homers, four RBI's, and nine runs scored.

When Zambrano ever needs some help he needs to look no further than his good friend Carlos Marmol. Marmol has been simply magnificent since his recall on May 18 from Des Moines. Marmol has comprised a mind-blowing 0.96 ERA in 18.2 innings with 24 strikeouts and has only given up 10 hits. His slider has been nasty and he locates his fastball beautifully. Last season, Marmol went 5-7 with a 6.08 ERA, but it is clear he learned a lot about himself and his abilities since then.

With the Carlos' dominating, the Cubs finally are getting back on track at 34-39 with a chance to sweep the South Siders tomorrow at U.S. Cellular Field. Marmol did a solid job today, while Zambrano had a superb performance yesterday. Expect to see Marmol if Cubs starter Sean Marshall struggles at all tomorrow.

Together, they are commanding and leading the Cubs' pitching staff to consistency. If Zambrano continues his dominance expect him to be in the running for the NL Cy-Young award. However, let's hope his other prediction of a Cubs World Series victory comes true as well. Regardless, the Carlos' will be there the whole way leading the pitching staff back to excellence.

Chicago Cubs Cancer and Catcher Sent Packing

The Cubs and Michael Barrett parted ways Wednesday when he was officially traded to the San Diego Padres for back-up catcher Rob Bowen and minor league outfielder Kyler Burke

The saga that was Michael Barrett is over. Not even halfway through the 2007 campaign, the Cubs' front office had seen enough headlines featuring Barrett over the last three and a half years.

Just this year, Barrett has been the focal point of fights, silly arguments, and bone-head plays. All these contributed to not only his departure, but a disease that needed to be cured in the Cubs' clubhouse. On June 1, Barrett and Cubs starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano went toe-to-toe after a lot of mounting frustration and more brainless plays by Barrett. The fight has been well-documented with many blaming Barrett for the repercussions even in light of Zambrano's intense emotions. Only eleven days later on June 12, Barrett and Cubs lefty Rich Hill got into a mild discussion about pitch selection. Then, in the 13th inning of the team's loss, Barrett misplayed a throw to home by Jacque Jones that would have nailed Jose Vidro of the Mariners by a couple steps.

These headlines in the past three weeks are simply the end to a long list of ridiculous issues with Barrett. In May 2006, the catcher socked White Sox catcher A.J. Pierzynski after getting cleanly run over protecting home. Barrett suffered a 10-game suspension for his actions and depleted a Cubs roster that couldn't afford his absence. Back in 2005, Barrett instigated a feud between Houston Astros starting pitcher Roy Oswalt that fueled the Astros to overcome the Cubs in the wildcard race late in the season. Even with all these distracting headlines, it is the play of Barrett so far this season that has Cubs nation in disarray.

At 30, Barrett is batting .256 with nine homers and 29 RBIs in a more limited role this year. However, it has never been his offense that people questioned, but his defense and overall lack of respect from pitchers. So far this year, Barrett has committed five errors, been charged with eight passed balls, and thrown out seven of 39 potential base-runners. On top of that, he has had some of the silliest baserunning blunders on record. Throw in the fact that numerous pitchers have requested he not catch for them including Hall of Fame bound Greg Maddux, Mark Prior, Kerry Wood, and most recently Carlos Zambrano. Finally, add to the mix that back-up catcher Koyie Hill has gone 5-2 with a 1.75 ERA in games he's started since being brought up.

With all of these put into the equation and Barrett set to be a free agent at season's end, the only logical move was to get rid of Barrett and his nonsense. It is rare that you see a player fall from the graces so quickly, but with everything over the last year the writing was on the wall.

Now, the Cubs will look to Koyie Hill and Rob Bowen to get the job done. Bowen joins the Cubs with a .268 average, two homers, 11 RBIs, and a .371 OBP. However, for all you Cubs fans who are worried about a lack of offensive production from the catching position, you need look no further than Des Moines, IA. The Cubs catcher of the future Geovany Soto is batting .325 with 15 doubles, eight homers, 41 RBIs, and a .400 OBP in 53 games. There is also an offensive-minded catcher named Jake Fox who resides in Double-A ball right now for the Cubs. Fox is hitting .298 with 14 home runs, 48 RBIs, and 19 doubles.

Whoever ends up making the biggest impression will win out, but for now Hill and Bowen are in charge. Barrett lost his welcome with the demanding fans and organization. He's just the first of a list of players that need to be shipped out. That list includes overpaid outfielder Jacque Jones, back-up shortstop Cesar Isturiz, and the lousy lefty reliever Scott Erye. By July 31, all three should be residing elsewhere and causing headaches for other clubs.

The good thing about trades is that you can monitor and see who the winner and loser is in the upcoming weeks. Barrett joins a pitching staff that leads the NL in ERA, but he struggled all year with the Cubs behind the plate. Regardless of what the future brings, both are better off going their separate ways.

Finally...Felix Returns

After a short stint with the Chicago Cubs earlier in the year, Felix Pie returned from Triple-A Iowa Sunday going 2-5 with an RBI and two runs in the Cubs 10-1 beat down of the Atlanta Braves

The Cubs' centerfielder of the future finally returned to big league action Sunday to help the Cubs halt their six-game skid and immediately showed he has the tools to make this team go.

For weeks I've been praying that GM Jim Hendry and anyone else involved would bring back Pie as soon as possible, and Sunday my prayers were answered. After Alfonso Soriano recorded the first out in the bottom of the first, Pie singled up the middle and eventually came around to score on Mark Derosa's grand slam. Pie would add an RBI double following Soriano's lead-off triple in the bottom of the fifth that helped kick start a three-run frame. Pie would strike out in his last two at-bats, but the excitement he brings to the game was seen in the fifth inning.

On a broken bat shot down the first base line, Pie hustled out of the box with a double in mind the whole time. Upon rounding first he glanced at right-fielder Jeff Francouer who raced and blindly threw a strike to second. However, it was Pie's speed that won the battle against Francouer's cannon of an arm. That type of play is exactly what Pie can bring to the Cubs day in and day out. He can turn a single into a double, a double into a triple, race down flyballs in centerfield, and steal bases.

Before being brought up, Pie was batting an astounding .389 for Triple-A Iowa with three homers, 24 RBIs, and 31 runs in 31 games. Pie's only real weakness comes against lefties in which he hit a dismal .156 in 32 at-bats. However, against righties Pie is deadly, hitting .468. The Cubs will face three righties in the upcoming series at Miller Park against the Milwaukee Brewers in Dan Bush, Claudio Vargas, and Jeff Suppan. With those match-ups, expect Pie to be starting everyday in center until possibly Thursday when the Cubs travel to Atlanta to face lefty Chuck James.

With Pie's return, Darryl Ward was placed on the 15-day DL due to a strained hip. Now, the Cubs once again have a log jam in the outfield with Alfonso Soriano slated in left daily, Felix Pie, Jacque Jones, Angel Pagan, Matt Murton, and Cliff Floyd. With all these players vying for playing time, you have to imagine the Cubs are planning to make a move with either Jacque Jones or Matt Murton. Jones has struggled all year batting a lousy .248 with only two homers in 165 at-bats. Jones' also possess a sub par arm and a lack of overall worth for the Cubs anymore.

Along with that, the Cubs organization made it clear that Pie's second stint in the big leagues this year is for good. "This is no extended trial," Cubs manager Lou Pinella said. "We brought him up here to play. He's going to play" (chicagocubs.com). If that is the case then the Cubs have four outfielders battling for playing time in right field. That can not continue for long so it is time to bring in the era of Felix Pie and say goodbye to the days of Jacque Jones in a Chicago Cubs uniform.

With Soriano heating up in the lead-off spot, Pie slated second in the order in which he batted .367 at Triple-A Iowa, Derrek Lee the epitome of consistency in the three hole, and Aramis Rameriz leading the Cubs in RBIs and homers in the clean-up spot it looks as if the Cubs finally have their order solidified one through four. Those four went a combined 10-18 in Sunday's win with two homers and three RBIs.

It is clear Pie brings a spark to this line-up unlike any player before him. With Soriano and Pie back-to-back expect a lot of speed, excitement, and production throughout the rest of the year.

Welcome back to the big leagues Mr. Pie. I'm going to get my Pie no. 20 jersey ASAP.

Frustration Boils Over at Not-So-Friendly Confines

The headache continued for the Cubs Friday when starting pitcher Carlos Zambrano and catcher Michael Barrett fought in the dugout and back in the clubhouse, meanwhile the Cubs fell 8-5 to the Atlanta Braves

The month of June began with a bang for the Chicago Cubs, only it was Carlos Zambrano's fist hitting Michael Barrett's face in the dugout Friday afternoon as opposed to a victory.

Losing their fifth consecutive game and ninth in their last 11 games, has the whole team in shambles. After a horrid fifth inning in which the Braves tallied five runs, Zambrano lost it. Confronting Barrett he pointed to his head as if saying, "play smart" after Barrett committed his seventh pass ball and fifth error of the year on the same play. The pass ball allowed runners to move up from second to third and the throwing error enabled the runner to score from third. Barrett responded by pointed to what seemed to be the scoreboard, and then Zambrano returned with a shot to Barrett's face as they both began to push back and forth.

Head coach Lou Pinella confirmed that the fight continued back in the clubhouse before Pinella sent both players home for the day. Barrett headed to the hospital first due to having an injured lip, but there is no word on the exact injury yet.

It seems that the Cubs simply can't get out of their own way. Zambrano was tagged for seven runs, six earned, 13 hits (a career-high) and no strikeouts (first time he hasn't recorded a strikeout after starting a game). On top of that, the Cubs gave up a total of 20 hits to the Braves, while committing two bone head errors including a ball lost in the sun to start the game by shortstop Ryan Theriot. It was yet another day filled with very few positives and many negatives from the starting pitching to the fielding.

In the post-game press conference, Pinella finally lost it at the end when asked how frustrating everything is becoming by stating he needs his players to start playing like major leaguers that can catch and run the bases or else they (Cubs organization) will bring in players that can.

In response to Pinella, I've got a few solutions to your problems. First, move Soriano to second or fifth in the line-up, second, trade Jacque Jones and bring up Felix Pie ASAP, and finally, put Ryan Theriot as the lead-off man for good.

Until these things are taken care of the Cubs will continue to struggle offensively and the frustration will heighten until Pinella as a real explosion on the field. However, at the same time you can't blame Pinella for much, the Cubs' players have been playing like complete garbage over the past two weeks and have dropped to a pathetic 22-30 overall, while falling to a dismal 10-15 at Wrigley Field.

I guess $300 million just doesn't by what it use to.

Dream World: Kobe Heading to Sweet Home Chicago?

Los Angeles Lakers' superstar Kobe Bryant demanded a trade on ESPN 1050 AM hosted by Stephen A. Smith today; however, with no control over a possible trade a lot is up in the air.

Chicago fans start dreaming and believing...the possibility of having arguably the best player in the league and a player in the same realm as Michael Jordan became a small, but nonetheless possibility Wednesday.

All the drama surrounding the Lakers came into light when Kobe discussed his anger over a Laker "insider" blaming him for the departure of Shaquille O'Neal in an article in the Los Angeles Times and how the team promised to build a contender around him. Kobe told Stephen A. Smith that Lakers' owner Jerry Buss was the one responsible for sending Shaq packing stating Buss' said, "Kobe, I am not going to re-sign Shaq. I am not about to pay him $30 million a year or $80 million over three years. No way in hell. I feel like he's getting older. His body is breaking down, and I don't want to pay that money to him when I can get value for him right now rather than wait" (ESPN.com). Later in the day, Shaquille O'Neal said he believed Kobe a thousand percent.

Furthermore, Kobe feels that the organization especially GM Mitch Kupchak has done nothing in regards to building a contender around him and instead have been rebuilding for the last three years. The three-time NBA champion stated that he even suggested going after Carlos Boozer, Jermaine O'Neal, Jason Kidd, and Ron Artest during the last three years and none of them have been fulfilled. Instead, Kobe has been forced to play with the likes of Smush Parker, Jordan Farmar, Kwame Brown, and Ronny Turiat. The only players that should start in the NBA on the Lakers are Andrew Bynum and Luke Walton.

With all this coming to fruition and Kobe demanding a trade and then backing off a bit after talking to head coach Phil Jackson, the Chicago Bulls seem like the only viable option to possibly make a trade for the superstar. The Bulls have a huge amount of young talent in the likes of Ben Gordon, Loul Deng, Chris Duhon, Tyrus Thomas, Andres Nocioni and Kirk Hinrich. It seems to me a reasonable trade would be Ben Gordon, Andres Nocioni (sign and trade deal), Chris Duhon and the Bulls no. 9 overall pick this year for Kobe Bryant. The Lakers would get a scorer in Gordon, a scrappy and potential scorer in Nocioni, a solid back-up guard in Chris Duhon, and a young talent with the no. 9 pick. The Lakers also have the no. 12 pick in this year's draft and since it is such a deep pool of talent they should be able to get some nice value there.

If the Lakers come calling for Loul Deng and Ben Gordon in any trade combination the Bulls and GM John Paxson would have to shoot down any offer. Taking Deng and Gordon away would leave the Bulls without a number two scorer to support Kobe and although the Bulls would get their closer on offense they would simply lose too much.

Imagine a starting line-up of: PG Kirk Hinrich, SG Kobe Bryant, SF Loul Deng, PF Tyrus Thomas and C Ben Wallace. Now, that is a team that equals a championship!

Chicago would immediately be brought back to dominance in the East since the Jordan era ended in 1998 and have yet another Hall of Famer to lead them to multiple championships. The possibility of Kobe even leaving LA is small, but if any team has the assets to offer a trade it is the Bulls. Here's to wishing good things in Chicago since the Cubs and White Sox have given up playing any decent baseball. Basketball and football are once again taking over Chicago sports.

Take a second and close your eyes, remember the Jordan/Pippen days...now picture the Bryant/Deng days. I know it's the ultimate dream, but here's a toast to those dreams becoming a reality in 2008 and the Chicago Bulls claiming the 2008 championship!

Hunter Will Be A Major Prey This Off-Season

In the last year of his contract, Torii Hunter is hot as the summer heat

For the last ten years, Torii (TORE-ee) Hunter has been the epitome of consistency offensively and defensively for the Minnesota Twins. With his contract year in full swing, Hunter is tearing up the diamond yet again, but may reside elsewhere next year due to his high-rising contract demands on the current market and young superstars on the Twins.

Entering tonight's game, Hunter is batting .317 with 11 homers, 42 runs driven in, nine stolen bases, .350 OBP, and slugging .581. This year he is making $12 million, but could demand upwards of $75 million over five years or $60 million over four years. It's not that the Twins don't want to sign him, but it's the fact they will need to fork up major cash to keep two-time Cy-young award winner Johan Santana and reigning AL MVP Justin Morneau. Santana at age 28 has become arguably the most dominant pitcher in the majors over the last five years, but will become a free agent after the 2008 season. Justin Morneau on the other hand won't be a free agent until after the 2009 season, but with his power, consistency and clutch-hitting he will surely demand top-dollar as well. Morneau so far this year as 15 homers and 39 RBI's including two walk-off homers. With his continued improvement, come 2009 Morneau will surely demand a huge contract in comparison to his current $4.5 million one. With all those figures in mind, the historically cheap Twins will be forced to let the ever-popular Hunter go after this year.

Although neither side truly wants to go their own ways, the time has come for Hunter to move on unless the Twins pony up and pay big dollars to Hunter, Santana, and Morneau. Otherwise, the six-time Gold Glover (01'-06') will be patrolling a different centerfield next year. Hunter could collect his seventh consecutive Gold Glove with his defense thanks to yet another jaw-dropping web gem last night when he robbed White Sox slugger Jim Thome of a solo shot in the Metrodome.

If Hunter is let go without an offer by the Twins expect a lot of teams to prey on the ten-year veteran. At only 31, Hunter is still playing at an extremely high-level in all aspects of the game. On top of his amazing play, the stud centerfielder has the perfect character and work ethic needed for any ballclub. It would be a shame to see Hunter depart from Minnesota, but money issues may force the Twins' hand regardless.

Cubs' Fans Feeling a Heavy Dose of Deja Vu

Bullpen blows another lead/game after offense provides spark

It's a phenomenon known as deja vu or otherwise Chicago Cubs baseball.

If you thought it couldn't get any worse...it did Friday night and into early Saturday. The Cubs bullpen imploded yet again. After the Cubs found themselves in a 5-0 deficit to the Los Angeles Dodgers, the team rallied for one run in the sixth and seven in the seventh to take an 8-5 lead. All signs pointed to a solid come from behind win for the up-and-down Cubbies; however, the bullpen stole the show again by serving up four runs in the bottom of the eighth to lose 9-8 to the Dodgers.

Cubs set-up man (hopefully former set-up man and Cub) Bob Howry came in the eighth with a three-run cushion only to give up back-to-back-to-back line drive singles to Russell Martin, Luis Gonzalez, and Tony Abreu. The amazing aspect of it all was that Howry continued to go to his mediocre low-nineties fastball to all three batters he faced. All three batters drilled the pitch for a single. Does the Cubs’ set-up man have another pitch besides his pathetic, no-movement fastball? Do any of the Cubs’ relievers have pitches besides mediocre fastballs? I’ve watched majority of the Cubs games this year and so far I’ve never seen a bullpen throw so many fastballs and average fastballs at that.

After Howry loaded the bases, lefty Will Ohman (or as I say when he comes in “Oh Man”) proceeded to give up a single up the middle to pinch-hitter Olmedo Saenz. The lead was now 8-6, and head coach Lou Pinella quickly took out “Oh Man” for youngster Angel Guzman. Guzman’s first pitch found the dirt and flew passed Michael Barrett as the Dodgers drew to within one. Three pitches later, Guzman walked pinch-hitter Andy LaRoche to load the bases yet again. With the bases juiced hot-hitting Rafael Furcal slapped a single through the left-side of the infield tying the game at eight with the bases still loaded and no outs. So far three Cubs’ relievers had faced six batters giving up five hits and one walk without a single out.

Next to the plate strolled ex-Cub Juan Pierre. Pierre hit a sacrifice fly (something he never could do with the Cubs) to give the Dodgers the lead 9-8. Another ex-Cub Nomar Garciaparra followed by grounding into an inning ending double play; however, the damage was done and Cubs’ fans took a deep breath for that’s all they could to do to restrain themselves from freaking out (if you did freak out…it’s more than understandable).

When the top of the ninth rolled around the Cubs position players went 1-2-3 without so much as a jab. They were defeated by their bullpen once again. The steam of their seven-run seventh inning was jarred by yet another miserable, horrendous bullpen outing. With the loss the Cubs fell to 21-25, and 2-11 in games decided by one-run. However, was anyone really surprised how this one ended? The Cubs are a major-league worst 2-11 in one-run games while the Dodgers are a major-league best 10-4. The Dodgers are 28-20. It’s as if every other game I go through a feeling of déjà vu. Haven’t I seen this script before? It’s like when you see a movie with almost the exact same plot or a TV show based on the same nonsense. Last year, the Cubs’ bullpen was miserable and this year the story’s the same with a few new characters.

Looking at the standings, somehow the Cubs find themselves only six games behind the Milwaukee Brewers, but does anyone really think the Cubs’ bullpen will be able to turn it around this year. When you win everything is great, but when you lose and lose like the Cubs have numerous times this year, well…then it makes you wonder. They say good teams win the close games, the Cubs haven’t done that. They say good teams get the clutch hit or make the clutch play, the Cubs haven’t done that. They also say head coach Lou Pinella is not a pitchers coach, well after the first 46 games I see why.

The Cubs’ bullpen has been downright PATHETIC and needs a real mix-up with certain players being released. It is clear the message has not been delivered. The only relievers whose jobs are not on the line are Ryan Dempster, Carlos Marmol, and Angel Guzman. The rest of the bullpen better wake-up soon or else find new fans to bring headaches to.

Looking at the stats, nothing adds up. The Cubs have outscored their opponents 219 to 193 and have given up the six fewest runs in baseball thanks to solid starting pitching, yet are 21-25. The White Sox have scored 11 fewer runs than allowed, but have a record of 24-20. The Cubs entered Friday nights’ game with an NL leading .285 average with runners in scoring position, second in NL in overall average at .269, but seventh in runs scored. Once again, none of this makes any sense.

However, it all makes sense when you look at the bullpen numbers. The bullpen leads the majors in losses with 15, with only four wins. They have blown 10 saves with only one coming at the hands of closer Ryan Dempster who is 10 for 11. Howry sports an era of 5.56, Eyre checks in at 7.53, Ohman at 4.97, and Dempster at 4.15. The answers to the offensive statistics are in the Cubs’ pathetic excuse for a bullpen.

Someone end this déjà vu…go out and do your job! Cubs’ nation, the coaching staff, and position players have all had enough.

The Cubs' Solution Lies at Short

Ryan Theriot started at shortstop today because Cesar Isturiz and Ronny Cedeno just are not cutting it

After twenty games, head coach Lou Pinella finally realized what Cubs' fans have noticed the past few years...the problems in the line-up are who is leading off and playing shortstop.

Finally, in an attempt to avoid a sweep at the hands of the first-place Milwaukee Brewers, Pinella inserted the speedy, energetic Ryan Theriot in the lead-off spot and at shortstop. Theriot has been playing extremely well so far, and continues to prove that he can hit over .300. Last season, in only 53 games of action, Theriot batted .328, had a impressive .412 OBP, and hit 11 doubles, three triples, and three homers. So far this season, he is batting .339 with a .362 OBP, scored ten runs, and snagged five stolen bases that leads the team.

It is clear that Theriot is the answer to the problems of the Cubs' lead-off man and the lack of production at shortstop. Cesar Isturiz is batting a weak .184, while Ronny Cedeno has a dismal .100 average. Neither Isturiz or Cedeno seem to be able to get the clutch hit with two outs or be able to drive the ball to all fields. Theriot on the other hand brings the ability to hit to all fields and clutch hitting as he got a big two-out, two-run single against the Brewers earlier today. On top of all that, Theriot can bring more speed to the line-up with his five stolen bases and constant motor.

Hopefully, Pinella has realized that Isturiz and Cedeno are not the answer at shortstop and Theriot is because he has played the position before in the minors, while being able to hit for a high average. Isturiz and Cedeno will never hit for a high average over a long season. Isturiz has not hit above .280 since the 2004 season with the Los Angeles Dodgers. Since then, he has been marred by injury and batted right around .250. Everyone talks about his amazing defense, but there is a lot more to gain with Theriot playing everyday at short than Isturiz or Cedeno.

In the end, one of them needs to be moved. Either Isturiz needs to be traded or Cedeno needs to be sent back down to the minors. The best move right now would be to give Cedeno the opportunity to play everyday and send him back to Des Moines to play Triple A. While Isturiz can remain the utility infielder and bench player.

In regards to the lead-off position, for all those that think Felix Pie (pronounced pee-yay) is ready to handle the burden, you are mistaken. As for anyone who honestly still thinks Alfonso Soriano should be leading off, well it's time to wake up and face the music. Pie should be playing everyday in centerfield because he is a sensational defender, and at any moment at the plate can turn a single into a double, or a double into a triple. He has blazing speed, and it will only be a matter of time before he gets his swing going in the big leagues. Pie was batting .444 before he was called up this year.

However, Pie shouldn't be thrust into the lead-off role when you have someone of Theriot's ability. Pie also strikes out too much still as he has seven K's in only 33 at-bats. He should be given time to adjust to the big leagues by hitting in the eight hole and Soriano should drop to the two spot. Let's face it Cubs nation, Soriano was the lead-off man in Washington because they had no one else to put there, but he is not the man for the job in Chicago. Soriano is batting .267 with a .302 OBP, and 13 strikeouts in 60 at-bats. He also has yet to hit a homer and has one lousy RBI. Cubs' GM Jim Hendry did not sign Soriano to a eight-year, $136 million contract to put up measly numbers like that.

Imagine the Cubs line-up as such:

1. Theriot SS

2. Soriano LF

3. Lee 1B

4. Rameriz 3B

5. Floyd/Murton RF (Jacque Jones can be traded)

6. Barret C

7. DeRosa 2B

8. Pie CF

9. Pitcher

Any pitcher attempting to plow through that line-up will have a hell of a time. Putting Soriano, Lee, and Rameriz back-to-back-to-back will make the opposing pitcher have to work extra hard and not be able to make a mistake. Leaving Soriano in the lead-off spot just doesn't make any sense with his ability to drive in runs. He only hit .277 last year and has a career .325 OBP. The solution is to allow Theriot to play everyday and put the three-headed monster of Soriano, Lee, and Rameriz together in the line-up.

I don't expect all my wishes to be followed, but I think it is evident that Theriot is the man and deserves a shot to play everyday. Hopefully, come Friday in St. Louis a new shortstop in the history of the Cubs will get his shot to show everyone that he is capable of leading off and playing shortstop.

Bonds Primed for a Special Year

After belting his 735th homer and first of the year on Wednesday night, Barry Bonds finds himself only 21 homers away from breaking Hank Aaron's record of 755.

The nightly ESPN ticker of the "Barry Bonds Home Run Chase" has begun with a bang. On a 2-2 count, Bonds sent a shot to left-center just over the wall off Padres pitcher Chris Young on Wednesday night.

Bonds' opposite field shot proved that his knees are good to go and will be knocking on Hammerin' Hanks' door sooner than later this year. With the support of the city of San Francisco, Bonds will be sure to hear the chants of "Barry! Barry!" all season long on his chase.

If that isn't proof enough that Bonds is healthy and ready to rock n' roll then his hustling, sprawling catch down the third base line to rob Marcus Giles of a double does. The catch also saved a run and a Giants lead at the time. Although the Giants fell, their star, and the biggest Giant of them all showed he's back.

Coming into this season, Bonds was coming off a tough year surrounded by scrutiny, constant steroid controversy including the ongoing government investigation by George Mitchell, and reestablishing power in his knees. Bonds went through a trio of knee surgeries in 2005 and only accumulated 42 at bats and 5 HRs. Last year, he returned with 26 bombs and 77 RBIs in 367 AB. However, in his last 30 games, Bonds was on a torrid pace. He launched 10 long balls, knocked in 26 runs, and hit .368.

With an off-season to get back into shape, the 7-time NL MVP used it wisely by rehabilitating his knee to 100 percent. Bonds even dominated spring training hitting seven clouts in only 45 AB.

If anything is clear, it is that the slugger of San Francisco is back, and back to break a sacred record. Hammerin' Hank Aaron's record-breaking homer to past Babe Ruth was celebrated throughout baseball and America. The only thing that scares me is that MLB and commissioner Bud Selig fail to recognize this historic achievement. For everyone's sake, it would be perfect if Bonds hit the record-breaker in his protective bay.

Whatever steroid allegations and controversies surround Bonds must be left as allegations and nothing more. There still has been no proof and until there is, Bonds must be celebrated. He holds single-season records in some impressive categories: 73 homers in 2001, 232 walks in 04', 120 intentional walks in '04, .609 on-base percentage in '04, .863 slugging percentage in '01, and a 6.52 HR ratio in '01. Bonds also has 18 seasons of at least 20 clouts in his 21-year career. On top of all that, Bonds led the Giants to the NL penant in 2002 and his 1st World Series apperance. In the 2002 playoffs, Bonds hit a jaw-dropping eight homers with four coming in the World Series.

The numbers speak for themselves, so when Bonds' hits 755 and 756 be sure to say congratulations because regardless of speculation, Bonds is the greatest hitter of all-time and arguably the greatest player.

Barry Lamar Bonds I salute you for your accomplishments now and into the future. I've been a fan of Bonds since my childhood, when I traded all my Ken Griffey Jr. baseball cards to my oldest brother Steve, for all his Barry Bonds'.

Without this steroid controversy, those could have been the greatest trades ever. Both are Hall of Fame bound, but I would rather have close to a hundred cards of the home run King.

Oh hell, "Barry!Barry!"

Chicago Bulls Improving Every Step of the Way

The Chicago Bulls are playing sensational in the second half of the season yet again after dominating the Pistons in a 106-88 statement game Wednesday night

The Chicago Bulls put the Eastern Conference on notice Wednesday night...they are for real.

Heading into the Palace, the Bulls were without former Piston Big Ben Wallace due to sinus inflammation, so someone would have to pick up the slack on the boards. Early on, another Ben was crippled due to foul trouble. Ben Gordon scored only two points in 12 minutes of action after entering averaging 21.5 points a game, so someone would have to pick up the slack offensively too.
With both tasks at hand, the whole squad decided to rise to the occasion in the rout. Kirk Hinrich poured in 29 points going 4-6 from 3-point land, and grabbed eight rebounds. Loul Deng continued his incredible play by dropping 22 points and snatching nine rebounds, while Thabo Sefolosha started his first game in the NBA, notched 11 points and 10 rebounds in a career-high 40 minutes of action. The other stud rookie Tyrus Thomas put on another spectacle by high-flying to 13 points, snatching eight rebounds, including five offensive in ten minutes of action before being ejected in the fourth quarter with 8:12 remaining after an altercation with Richard Hamilton.

The Bulls steam rolled into Detroit grabbing their sixth win out of their last seven, while taking the season series three to four for the first time since the Jordan era (1998). With only six games remaining, the Bulls still find themselves only a 1/2 game behind Cleveland for the second-seed in the East. However, the last six are against the Nets twice, Raptors, Knicks, Bobcats, and Wizards (possibly Gilbert Arenas-less) with three of the six at the United Center.

Over the last three years, the young Bulls have shared a common theme: improving significantly throughout the season. Although, this time they aren't playing for their playoff lives. The Bulls secured that spot long ago and clinched last week, yet with the second seed on the line the Bulls are playing their best basketball at the end of the season again. Since the All-Star Break, the Bulls are a remarkable 16-6 and improved to 12-4 against divisional opponents with their W over the Pistons.

Taking a look at the Bulls as a whole, GM John Paxson deserves a huge pat on the back and a toast for his excellent work. Over the last four years, Paxson has drafted exceptionally starting with Kirk Hinrich seventh overall in 2003. Then Ben Gordon third, Loul Deng seventh (originally drafted by Phoenix), and Chris Duhon 38th in 2004. The Bulls had no draft picks in 2005, but rebounded with fourth pick Tyrus Thomas (originally drafted by Portland, traded for second pick LaMarcus Aldridge) and Thabo Sefolosha at 13 in 2006. The Bulls also have the option of flipping picks with the New York Knicks in the 2007 draft, which they will of course do (anything can happen in the lottery).

After congratulating Paxson, fans should turn their next "thank yous" to head coach Scott Skiles. Skiles has molded the young crop of Hinrich, Gordon, Deng, Duhon, Thomas, and Sefolosha beautifully with veterans Ben Wallace and P.J. Brown. All six of the picks over the last four years have contributed significantly to the Bulls reemergence in the Eastern Conference, while Hinrich, Deng and Gordon have become stars with Thomas and Sefolosha chomping at the bit.

On top of it all, gritty warrior Andres Nocioni is scheduled to return to action this Friday against the Nets after sitting out since basically Feb. 3 due to plantar fasciitis. Paxson managed to sign Nocioni as a free agent from Argentina in August of 2004. To say the least, 2004 was a big year for the Bulls with Gordon, Deng and Nocioni joining the ranks to form the nucleus. With Nocioni's return the Bulls add yet another scorer and rebounder in their talented rotation.

Since the Jordan era ended in 1998, Bulls youngsters have been cycled in and out; however, this crop has a different bounce to their step. Those youngsters of the past include Elton Brand, Marcus Fizer, Jamal Crawford, Tyson Chandler, Eddy Curry, and Jay Williams (motorcycle was a great mistake). All were shipped out of town, but in 2003 the new crop arrived starting with floor general Hinrich.

The pieces are all in the place. The Bulls are primed to snatch the two-seed from the Cavs and claim home-court advantage (28-10 at the United Center).

On Wednesday, the Bulls proved they are for real, but the next six games will show whether they are a true contender.

I already got them in the Eastern Conference Finals, and I hope to see you there as well.

Tyrus Thomas Soaring to New Heights...Literally

Over the past week, Thomas has marked up the box score, including his most recent performance Saturday in a 112-108 OT loss to Cleveland

This time last year, Tyrus Thomas led LSU to the Final Four as a freshmen.

Now, Thomas (T^2) is blossoming into the player everybody thought he could be when the Bulls traded the second pick LaMarcus Aldridge to Portland for the fourth pick Thomas. In a heart-breaking overtime loss to Cleveland 112-108 on Saturday, Thomas scored a career-high 27 points, grabbed eight rebounds, snatched three steals, swatted three shots, and had a handful of high-flying dunks. Thomas also shot a sensational 9-11 from the field and 9-10 from the free throw line in a career-high 37 minutes of action off the bench.

Over the past week, Thomas has come into his own. It all started with his game-winning tip against Denver with two-tenths of a second left on March 22. Thomas' tip-in propelled the Bulls to a 109-108 victory. He also notched nine points and 11 rebounds, including five offensive in only 21 minutes of action. Then on March 29, in 27 minutes of action Thomas scored 13 points and grabbed 10 boards (six offensive) enabling the Bulls to squeak by the pesky Detroit Pistons 83-81.

All of this has been made possible due to the injury to Andres Nocioni. Nocioni has been suffering from plantar fasciitis since Feb. 3 and has not played in a game since Feb. 22, in which he only logged 15 minutes. Plantar fasciitis is a painful inflammatory condition caused by excessive wear to the plantar fascia (heel) of the foot. Nocioni's injury paved the way for Thomas and will continue to do so since the Chicago Tribune reported on Wednesday that Nocioni still had inflammation in his right foot.

Without Nocioni, the Bulls have been one of the hottest teams in the NBA and the hottest team in the Eastern Conference since the All-Star break going 14-6. The Bulls can thank Thomas' play off the bench especially over the last week for their hot streak.

At only 20 years-old, Thomas has all the upside in the world. He is a player that progresses through confidence, which after Saturday's game vs. Cleveland should be through the roof. His athleticism on both ends of the floor was the reason he was drafted fourth overall last year. Now, every game fans are just waiting to jump out of their seats to celebrate one of Thomas' jaw-dropping, thunderous slams or monstrous, "get that junk out of my house" blocks.

If the past week is a sign of things to come (which I strongly believe it is) then the Bulls should be extremely pleased with Thomas' progress this year. The only thing they should be focused on is trying to overcome the 1 1/2 game difference separating them and the Cavs. The team that is able to hold on will get a comfy two seed, while the loser will have to deal with the fifth seed with no homecourt advantage.

With only ten games left and the playoffs just around the corner, the Bulls will have to count on Thomas more than ever. I do not see a problem with that because Thomas' energy, explosiveness, and athleticism will be on full displayed come April and playoff time for Chicago.

The Sad Saga of the Chicago "DL Duo"

Chicago Cubs head coach Lou Pinella named Wade Miller the team's fifth starter, ending any discussion of Mark Prior making the opening day roster, while Kerry Wood is already on the DL

It has been three tumultuous years since the Cubs were only five outs away from a World Series berth. Mark Prior was on the mound for game six and if that wasn't enough, fellow ace Kerry Wood was geared up for game seven. The Cubs would prove the curse's existence losing to the Florida Marlins as well as their aces of the future, Prior and Wood.

Now, as the 2007 season approaches, the circus that has become Mark Prior and Kerry Wood continues on with a full head of steam. Prior will start the season in the minors, while Wood is working on setting the record for number of times on the designated list (DL), this being his 10th time.

Meanwhile, another pitcher recovering from injury, Wade Miller has looked exceptional this spring. Miller is 2-0 with a 3.63 ERA in five starts, including a solid performance against the San Francisco Giants this past Saturday going five innings, striking out five, and giving up no runs. Miller had shoulder surgery back in 2005 with the Boston Red Sox and pitched in five games last year for the Cubs going 0-2 with a 4.57 ERA.

However, it is Miller who will be able to show is worth to start the season while Mark Prior will have plenty of time to think about his mechanics or why he and Wood have become the biggest weaklings in baseball.

It is hard to believe that since 2003 the "DL Duo" has combined for a meaningless 30 wins, Prior has 18, while Wood only has 12. In 2003 alone, Prior went 18-6 with a 2.43 ERA and struck out 245, while Wood finished at 14-11 with a 3.20 ERA and 266 strikeouts. It was more Wood than Prior that displayed their dominance in the postseason that year as Wood almost single handily took down the Atlanta Braves in the divisional series.

However, today's Chicago Cubs prepared themselves by spending close to $300 million so that Wood and Prior's health would not affect the ball club. The Cubs went out and signed lefty Ted Lilly and former Cardinal Jason Marquis, who will be in the second and third spots of the rotation. The fourth is lefty Rich Hill, and of course the ace is Carlos Zambrano.

In the end, the start to this season is just another headline in the sad saga that is the "DL Duo." You can say they are cursed with bad luck or they don't take care of themselves off the field, but in the end neither of that matters because neither will be on the opening day roster. It is Wade Miller's spot to lose to Mark Prior, but don't bet on it. Miller's numbers this spring have been head and shoulders above Prior, while Wood can't seem to get out of his own way.

After this season, it is time to say goodbye to what was supposed to be the future of the Cubs only three years ago. The story of the "DL Duo" is a tragedy through and through. However, for all Cubs fans, let's hope for the best with whatever they can deliver this year.

It's been 98 years since the Cubs won a World Series, so it's safe to say, hope is all we got.

A Final Four Battle for the Ages: Ohio State vs. Georgetown

Oden vs. Hibbert, Lewis vs. Green, Conley Jr vs. Sapp, Butler vs. Wallace and all the role players in between

It has turned into a heavyweight battle. Strength against strength, height versus height, and confidence throughout. The eyes of a nation will be focused on the opening tip when freshmen sensation Greg Oden at 7-0, 280 pounds stands toe-to-toe with junior beast Roy Hibbert 7-2, 278 pounds.

The paint will shrink to almost nothing when both these two are on the court; however, players like Jeff Green, Jessie Sapp, and Dajaun Summers will take their shots at Oden for Georgetown, while Ron Lewis, Mike Conley Jr., and David Lighty will show no fear in driving against Hibbert. The match-ups are incredible with all key players playing at all-time highs. Therefore, don't be surprised when this game comes down not to the giants patrolling the lane, but the slashers, offensive leaders, and 3-point specialists.

The match-up of Jeff Green versus Ron Lewis is one of great intrigue. The 6-9 Jeff Green has the versatility to guard the 6-4 Lewis on the perimeter and inside. Green displayed his versatility against North Carolina were on consecutive possessions he guarded center Tyler Hansbrough, forward Rayshawn Terry, and speedy point guard Ty Lawson. Lewis will not be guarding Green, but it will be their production offensively that could prove to be the difference maker.

Another key match-up is between the two stellar point guards, Ohio State's speed-demon Mike Conley Jr. and Georgetown's physical Jessie Sapp. Conley Jr.'s play throughout the tournament has rightfully given him the title of "Best Point Guard in the Country." His ability to drive the lane, sick dishes, changes in tempo, and overall poise have been displayed throughout the tournament. Meanwhile, Sapp showed he is no slouch whatsoever when he shut down freshmen star Ty Lawson to the tune of five points on 2-9 shooting and forced him into five turnovers. Sapp also had the energy to tally 15 points and eight assists in the Hoyas victory over UNC Sunday. This match-up will also play huge dividends for whichever team gets the most production.

Another match-up features the main 3-point specialists for each team, Buckeyes' Jamaar Butler and the Hoyas' Jonathan Wallace. Butler responded admirably to his disappointing performance against Tennessee in which he netted only three points by dropping 12 points and four assists against Memphis. However, it was Wallace's clutch 3-point shot that brought the Hoyas all the way back from 11 down against UNC to tie it at 81 with 31 seconds remaining. That shot proved to be the deciding factor as the Hoyas blasted UNC 15-3 in overtime and cruised to a 96-84 victory. Wallace finished with 19 points and seven assists, while remaining one of the most accurate overall shooters in Division I basketball this year. Whichever guard gets going early from distance will enable Oden or Hibbert to work more freely inside.

The final match-up features role players versus role players, and there are plenty of them. The Buckeyes' possess two super freshmen in Daquan Cook and high-riser David Lighty, while the Hoyas' boast freshmen talent Dajaun Summers and junior garbage man Patrick Ewing Jr. All four of these players will have an impact on the game, but whether it is negative or positive is the difference. All four players had positive impacts on their teams in the the elite eight match-ups so expect the same trend to continue.

However, it is Dajaun Summers that stands out the most of these role players. Summers dropped 20 points and snatched six boards against an extremely athletic UNC front line, after tallying 15 points and seven rebounds against Vanderbilt. If Summers becomes the third scoring threat and scores in double-digits the Hoyas will be unbeatable. It will be up to Lighty and Cook to use their athleticism to control Summers and Ewing Jr. on the glass, inside, and on the perimeter.

Yet in the end, all eyes will return to the talented big men on the inside, Oden and Hibbert. Their presence alone as caused tons of shots to be altered, while their emphatic blocks make the opponent think twice about driving to the hole. Both have been in foul trouble throughout the tournament, so it may easily come down to whoever is able to avoid those silly fouls.

Regardless, this Final Four match-up is not just about Ohio State-Georgetown, it has so many more dimensions. There will be an incredible amount of young talent on the floor with Ron Lewis being the only senior to see significant action. Freshmen's Greg Oden, Mike Conley Jr, and Dajaun Summers will have immediate impacts on the game, while upperclassmen Jeff Green, Roy Hibbert, and Ron Lewis will display leadership to the youngsters.

However, when the final buzzer sounds, it will be Greg Oden's dominance, Ron Lewis' clutch play, Mike Conley Jr's brilliance, and the role players' consistent play that will propel the Buckeyes to the national championship game on April 2.

The only question left is who will claim victory in the night cap in a rematch of last year's championship game between Florida and UCLA to face the Buckeyes?

Ohio State Buckeyes are Cool Customers, But Ron Lewis is the Coolest

Buckeyes finish game nailing 20 straight free throws, while making 35-41 overall

A free throw is supposed to be the easiest means to score in basketball. Every player has practiced the simple shot hundreds of times, yet it is never a given. In those mere 15 feet, the result of that free throw can make or break a game or even a season.

For the Ohio State Buckeyes (OSU), the charity stripe lived up to its name Saturday against Memphis. The Buckeyes calmly and collectively drained 20 straight free throws to turn a close game into a blow-out, 92-76. They finished the game drilling 35-41 overall, which figures out to an impressive 85 percent enabling them to advance to Atlanta for the Final Four. For being an incredibly young team, OSU displayed the poise of grizzled veterans at the foul line.

Despite all the attention Greg Oden and Mike Conley Jr. receive, it has been senior guard Ron Lewis who keeps displaying the leadership and cool demeanor needed to advance to the Final Four. Lewis has hit all 21 of his free throw attempts in the tournament including going 10-10 against Memphis and 7-7 against Xavier.

It is clear that Ron "Cool" Lewis knows a thing or two about remaining calm following his miraculous three against Xavier that tied the game with two seconds remaining enabling OSU to squeak by in overtime. Lewis has jumped into the spotlight with his deadly scoring prowess. He has now tallied 22, 25, and 27 points in three consecutive NCAA tournament games including saving the Buckeyes season. Lewis also helped OSU erase a 17-point halftime deficit against Tennessee by dropping 18 of his 25 in the second half.

Oden and Conley Jr deserve all the praise in the world for their dominating play. Conley Jr. has solidified his claim as the best point guard in the country as a freshmen, while he plays with soon-to-be No.1 overall NBA pick Greg Oden. Oden's praise came long before the tournament began, but it has been Lewis game in and game out who has not let the Buckeyes' national championship hopes die.

Having only averaged 12.8 points a game during the regular season, Lewis' stretch of three games really extends to his last eight. He has averaged close to 19 points per over that stretch with all eight being in double-digits. Expect the streak to continue when Ohio State takes on the feisty Georgetown Hoyas this Saturday at 6:07ET.

Lewis has done exactly what Tyrus Thomas of the Chicago Bulls did at this time last year playing for LSU, improve draft value. Now, Lewis will not by any means be a lottery pick, but he has darted up the draft board from a likely early second-round pick to a late first-round one.

That kind of rise will mean millions of dollars for Mr. Lewis. Not all players are capable of handling the spotlight of March Madness, but Ron "Cool" Lewis has done more than handle it. He has become a star.

Big Ten Gains One Coach, Loses Another

On Thursday, Kentucky head coach Tubby Smith bolted for Minnesota, while Iowa head coach Steve Alford departed for New Mexico

After having a weekend to think over the coaching moves done by Tubby Smith and Steve Alford, I am still left in a state of confusion and surprise.

Both coaches suffered from having to fill the shoes of coaching legends, Rick Pitino and Dr. Tom Davis. However, it can be argued that Tubby Smith did fulfill expectations by taking Kentucky to 10 NCAA appearances in his 10-year tenure, while winning a national championship in 1998. Steve Alford on the other hand failed immensely. Alford took Iowa to only three NCAA appearances in eight years, while going 1-4 in those games including the unforgettable 2006 exit to Northwestern State on a miraculous three-point shot as time expired.

Looking at the basketball programs of Kentucky and Iowa there is a great difference in tradition. Kentucky is and will always be a basketball school, while Iowa as emerged in the last five years as a football dominated institution. Therefore, it is fair to say that Tubby Smith simply wanted to part ways as he saw fit.

The Wildcats went 22-12 overall and 9-7 in SEC play this year, while getting knocked out of the NCAA tournament in the second-round to an extremely talented Kansas Jayhawk squad. Yet despite what many would consider a solid, respectable season, it simply does not cut it in Kentucky. The Wildcats storied tradition dates back to the great Adolph Rupp and his four NCAA tournament championships (1948, '49, '51, and '58). However, that was in an era that was white-dominated. Today's college basketball is a distant memory of those days in which African-Americans now dominate.

The true situation with Tubby Smith is that he was never given a fair shot having to fulfill the shoes of Rick Pitino and even the late, great Adolph Rupp. Smith did win a national championship in 1998, but that was Kentucky's last final four appearance and over the last 10 years their recruiting as suffered greatly.

However, it is not the fact that Tubby Smith left Kentucky with four years remaining on his contract that surprises me because he was a lame duck anyway. It is the fact that he left to coach a Gopher program that has had minimal basketball success since the Bobby Jackson era and the 1996-97 season. That was a magical year for Gopher basketball in which they reached the Final Four only to lose ironically to Kentucky. Minnesota finished 31-4 and ranked third in both the final AP and USA Today polls.

Yet today's picture of Gopher basketball is bleak. Minnesota is coming off a dismal 9-22 season, while going 3-13 in a weak Big Ten. Hopefully for Gopher fans the seven-year $12.6 million contract sent Smith's way will change the nature of the program in the coming years.

But being a realist I do not see that happening anytime soon. The Big Ten got a great addition to the conference in a head coach like Tubby Smith, but Minnesota Golden Gopher basketball is a few years away from being a contender.

Iowa on the other hand, was a contender only a season ago in which they finished 25-9 before exiting in only a way the Hawkeyes can.

It was and still is a heart-breaking 64-63 lost to Northwestern State in the first-round of the NCAA tournament. After rolling through the Big Ten tournament, Iowa wound up with a great three seed. Yet, even with all that momentum and a senior-laden team, head coach Steve Alford's legacy was written with that disappointing meltdown. The Hawkeyes were up 16 with less than eight minutes to play before completely falling a part.

With that loss, Steve Alford's best team had fallen victim to the upset special of the NCAA tourney. His NCAA record fell to 1-4 in three appearances. Getting only one first-round victory in three appearances is downright pathetic. Therefore, like Tubby Smith, Alford was a lame duck after going 17-14 overall and 9-7 in the Big Ten this season. Alford had simply made too many enemies within the Iowa community for his ego to continue to stay.

Upon signing on to become the new head coach at New Mexico, Alford cited two reasons as to why he was leaving: a new challenge and a school that put basketball first. Now, when taken together those two reasons make Alford look like a complete moron. Making Iowa a more predominant basketball school is a challenge in itself, and if I'm not mistaken in his eight-year tenure Alford accomplished a whole lot of nothing. Yes, he did have seven-straight winning seasons, but none of those proved to be anything more than a nice regular season followed by a dismal post-season.

In Alford's case, he also had huge shoes to fill in Dr. Tom Davis, but the constant distractions of the Indiana job, off-court issues with Pierre Pierce, no NCAA success, and Alford's inability to fit into the Iowa community doomed him.

As a Hawkeye, all I have to say is good luck in New Mexico Steve, you're going to need it.

Recapping Opening Weekend: A Sensational Saturday

Three overtime battles, with an incredible five of eight games decided by five points or less

Ron Lewis kicked off the party and it never stopped.

Lewis' clutch three with two seconds to go in regulation sent Ohio State to overtime versus Xavier, and propelled them to victory, 78-71. A collective sigh swept through Buckeye nation with Lewis' ice-water trifecta.

In overtime, the dynamic freshmen point guard Mike Conley Jr. carried the squad to victory without superstar Greg Oden. Oden fouled out in regulation; however, Conley Jr. dropped 11 points to keep the Buckeyes' national championship hopes and the Oden era alive at least one more game.

In the process, Ohio State extended their winning-streak to 19 games with their last lost coming all the back on Jan. 9th at then-No. 4 Wisconsin, 72-69. Lewis finished with 27 big-time points, Conley Jr. tallied 21, while Oden finished with 14 points and 12 boards. Xavier led by as many as 11, but failed to put it away when Justin Cage miss the potential game-sealing free throw with 9.8 seconds left. Ohio State will take on the high-powered Tennessee Volunteers Thursday night in the sweet 16.

Later on that night, Vanderbilt and Washington St. needed double-overtime to decide who would taste the joys of the sweet 16.

Vandy led by fifth-year senior and SEC player of the year, Derrick Byars, managed to pull out this fantastic battle, 78-74. Byars led the Commodores with 27 points including five 3-pointers in the second half against the vaunted Cougar D. Despite being down 33-25 at the half, the Commodores turned outward and managed to pull out this gritty ballgame. Vandy will take on Roy Hibbert, Jeff Green, and the rest of the dog pound when they take on Georgetown this Friday.

Almost simultaneously as Vanderbilt-Washington St. came to a thrilling conclusion, Cinderella lost her glass slipper, but this time there was no prince charming, Eric Maynor, to put it back on. After being down 41-26 at the half and as many as 19, Virginia Commonwealth (VCU) came storming back to force Pittsburgh to settle things in overtime. However, Pittsburgh displayed their true ability and sent Cinderella home packing, 84-79 thanks to Levance Fields, Aaron Gray, and Sam Young.

Fields had a chance to seal the game in regulation, but clanked two free throws when the game was tied at 69. However, he totally redeemed himself in overtime by nailing a big three and then set-up sharpshooter Ronald Roman for yet another three in consecutive possessions. VCU was led by Jesse Pellot-Rosa and B.A. Walker, whom tallied 20 points each. Their sophomore star point guard, Maynor, was unable to rekindle the magic that enabled VCU to knock off Duke in the first-round, 79-77.

Despite VCU's heart-wrenching lost, their feisty, gritty performance showed America yet again that the mid-major can always play the role of David when trying to slay a Goliath, the Pittsburgh Panthers. Pittsburgh will face the UCLA Bruins Thursday night with the winner advancing to the elite eight.

If Saturday's action was any indication of the excitement March Madness brings then all those fans out there better fasten their seat belts, make sure their tray tables are in the upright position, and prepare for take-off because these next four days are going to just as sensational.

Is there any better sporting event in the world? I think not.

After 16 Days of Silence, Matthews Jr. Finally Speaks

Matthews Jr. professes his innocence stating, "I have never taken HGH."

It only took Los Angeles Angels outfielder Gary Matthews Jr. 16 days to claim his innocence in the Internet-based scandal involving performance-enhancing drugs. The first question is why it took 16 days to refute the allegation?

After hiring an attorney, a publicist, and checking to see if he would be the focus of an investigation, Matthews finally decided it was a good time to refute the allegation. In a press release by the Angels, Matthews statement read, "I have never taken HGH - during the 2004 season or any other time. Nobody has accused me of doing so, and no law authority has said I am a target of any investigation for doing so." (taken from ESPN.com)

This all comes in the aftermath of the Angels threatening to void his monster contract for five-years worth $50 million dollars. It is clear that if Matthews had never taken HGH that he would have immediately proclaimed his innocence by screaming to the high heavens for all to hear.

Instead, it took him 16 days. That is an eternity when you are reported to be linked to performance-enhancing drugs. Imagine an average, middle-class citizen being linked to a crime and taking 16 days to finally profess their innocence to the allegation. You can bet the house mortgage that a huge cloud of doubt would arise, which is exactly what Matthews has done.

Along with Matthews, 20 other notable athletes were connected to the scandal including Jose Canseco, John Rocker, David Bell, and Evander Holyfield. Along with taking 16 days, if you take an in-depth look into Matthews' career statistics the possibility of him using HGH becomes even cloudier.

Last season, while playing centerfield for the Texas Rangers, Matthews had a career year. At 31, he batted .313, hit 19 homers, knocked in 79 RBIs, and stretched out 44 doubles, allowing him to bank in the inflated off-season market. Prior to last year, Matthews had a career-high average of .276 in 2002 with the Baltimore Orioles, and before hitting 11 homers in 2004, then 17 in 2005 had never eclipsed the double-digit mark. Now, he has increased his total over the last three seasons that are under controversy.

I am not specifically saying that Matthews took HGH or any other performance-enhancing drugs, but looking at his history, and the fact it took 16 days to refute the allegation makes it seem as a high possibility. Anytime you are mentioned in the same sentence as Jose Cansesco these days it is a bad, bad situation.

Unfortunately, for baseball and Matthews, Major League Baseball (MLB) doesn't test for HGH because that requires a blood test. HGH was added to the banned substance list in 2005, but what is the point if you can't actually test for it.

Hopefully, law enforcement will be able to connect the dots in this Internet-scandal involving performance-enhancing drugs. However, until they are able to do so, Matthews' actions over the past 16 days have currently tainted his name, character, reputation, and baseball accomplishments.