The Detroit Tigers won their Grapefruit League opener against the New York Mets 4-2. One quick observation from the game (from www.detroittigers.com)
"Tigers on the mound: Jeremy Bonderman, pitching without his breaking ball to focus on his other pitches early, allowed two runs on four hits in two innings. Jason Grilli and Zach Miner each pitched two innings of scoreless relief."
Let's hope the Bonderman thing does not continue through the rest of the spring and the regular season. Someone has to get in this guys head and talk him out of his early game struggles.
Wednesday, February 27, 2008
Tuesday, February 26, 2008
Grapefruit League Baseball
Hail To The Victors!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In early action, the University of Michigan Wolverines are defeating the New York Mets 4-2 in the top of the 9th. Looks like UM will have another good baseball team this year.
The Mets tied the score in the bottom of the 9th. The game ended in a tie.
Bless You Boys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In the top of the 5th inning, the Tigers are defeating Florida Southern College 12-4. Newly acquired third baseman Miguel Cabrera homered in his first at bat of the spring, a two-run shot with one out in the first inning. Polanco (1st) and Inge (2nd) homered in the game as well.
Detroit ended up winning 17-4.
In early action, the University of Michigan Wolverines are defeating the New York Mets 4-2 in the top of the 9th. Looks like UM will have another good baseball team this year.
The Mets tied the score in the bottom of the 9th. The game ended in a tie.
Bless You Boys!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
In the top of the 5th inning, the Tigers are defeating Florida Southern College 12-4. Newly acquired third baseman Miguel Cabrera homered in his first at bat of the spring, a two-run shot with one out in the first inning. Polanco (1st) and Inge (2nd) homered in the game as well.
Detroit ended up winning 17-4.
Thursday, February 21, 2008
It's a results-oriented business
I am not quite sure why I allow myself to get so upset over the Lions, when I have stated before on this blog that the problem lies with the owner and not the GM, but Millen did state that "It's a results-oriented business".
Take a quick look at the RESULTS that other general managers in the Detroit sports scene have put together.
Other Musings
Take a quick look at the RESULTS that other general managers in the Detroit sports scene have put together.
- Ken Holland-Detroit Red Wings - In his 11th year (10th season thanks NHLPA), Holland has amassed a winning percentage of .663. Throw in 2 Stanley Cups (1998, 2002), and I would say the old goalie knows something about results.
- Joe Dumars-Detroit Pistons - In his 8th season playing chess with the Detroit roundballers, Joe D has put together a winning percentage of .631. With one championship under his belt, Dumars seems poised to change to address at The Palace of Auburn Hills to 6 Championship Drive. He can produce results.
- Bill Laimbeer-Detroit Shock - In 5 seasons as the main man, the former grumpy Piston as been to the finals 3 times and has 2 championships. Throw in a .618 winning percentage, and you have results.
- Dave Dombrowski-Detroit Tigers - Through 5 seasons with the GM hat (he was only President in 2002 - remember Randy Smith), the three time GM has accumalted a winning percentage of .456, not bad considering he had a winning percentage of .265 in his first year as GM. Throw in a trip to the World Series in 2006, his results are starting to show.
A pretty impressive resume for our hometown GMs, so one would conclude that the man who stated in a recent interview "It's a reults-oriented business" or "Things have been defined" was none other than Scott Pioli, the GM for the New England Patroits. As everyone could guess, it was not Pioli, but the Detroit Lions very own Matt Millen
The same Matt Millen who in 7 seasons charge has amassed a whopping winning percentage of .277 (just a hare better than the Tigers in 2003). So if that is results to Matt Millen, I would hate to see how he defines losing. Mr. Millen you have not produced results. You have not even show progress towards results. In fact the only thing that has been defined is, you are a failure as a GM. Please resign, and save whatever face you have remaining.
Enough football, until fall. (I hope)
Other Musings
- Is anyone really surprised by what is happening down in Bloomington, Indiana? Hoosier fans have a right to be upset, but should be more upset with the administration of IU than with Sampson. When you make deals with the devil, when you play with matches, you usually get burned. Kelvin Sampson is a great basketball coach, but does not like to follow the rules that the NCAA has put forth.
- The Pistons should start to worry about their nemisis on Lake Erie. The proposed trade bringing help to King James, will make them a very solid team.
- Scott Boras is having a tuff few months. First A-Rod drops him, then Kenny Rogers, and now Sheffield has Boras in his sights again. I guess everyone gets their comeupance.
- A generational divide when it comes to the DH. Click on the link. A very good blog. I just wish the NL would get over themselves already and move to the DH.
Trivia Question
What Detroit Tiger pitcher, has the best single-season hits allowed per 9IP ratio? Answer will come on Monday.
In 1998, Jeff Robinson had his best year in the major leagues posting a 13-6 record with a 2.98 ERA. In doing so, Jeff also has the Tiger single season record for hits allowed per 9IP - 6.33
Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Spring is Here!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
For, lo, the winter is past,
The rain is over and gone;
The flowers appear on the earth;
The time of the singing of birds is come,
And the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.
What, you say spring does not begin until March 20th. Well, I say you are wrong. Spring starts today, February 14th. Baseball season officially starts today, as the Detroit Tiger's pitchers and catchers report to spring training. It is ironic how I have to share St. Valentine's Day with both loves of my life - my lovely wife and the game of baseball. She should be used to it be now, we did visit Cooperstown on our honeymoon.
I want to dedicate this begining of spring 2008 to the three men who helped shape my love of the game. First and foremost, I want to thank my father, Alfred Henry Selich. His love for the game was deep and passionate. He was my first coach. He preached fundamentals, and was always thinking ahead to the next play. He hated to lose, but always won or lose with integrity. He passed his love and passion for the game to his three sons, and we still carry that love and passion today. He has since passed to a better place. This is the time of the year that I think about him the most.
Secondly, I want to thank my great uncle and long time Mt. Pleasant JV Baseball coach, Frank Demski. Uncle Frank, my mother's uncle, is a person that I always wanted to see when we went to Mt. Pleasant to visity my grandfather. He was always willing to play catch or throw BP. Even now, I can go to Frank Demski Field in Mt. Pleasant and tell my kids who he was and what he meant to me and my love of the game.
Lastly, I want to thank Mr. Harry Kern, the long time baseball coach at Millington High School. I first remember meeting Mr. Kern in the spring of 1985 at baseball tryouts. I could not believe that I had finally met someone outside of my family that loved the game as much as we did. It was amazing. The spring seemed to fly by, as I sat and listened and loved all the stories and phliosophies that this man had to share. It was like I had a front row seat with Ernie Harwell. To this day, whenever I see Mr. Kern, I just love to talk baseball with him.
To all three men, thank you. Happy spring to all, and Go Tigerssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!
The rain is over and gone;
The flowers appear on the earth;
The time of the singing of birds is come,
And the voice of the turtle is heard in our land.
What, you say spring does not begin until March 20th. Well, I say you are wrong. Spring starts today, February 14th. Baseball season officially starts today, as the Detroit Tiger's pitchers and catchers report to spring training. It is ironic how I have to share St. Valentine's Day with both loves of my life - my lovely wife and the game of baseball. She should be used to it be now, we did visit Cooperstown on our honeymoon.
I want to dedicate this begining of spring 2008 to the three men who helped shape my love of the game. First and foremost, I want to thank my father, Alfred Henry Selich. His love for the game was deep and passionate. He was my first coach. He preached fundamentals, and was always thinking ahead to the next play. He hated to lose, but always won or lose with integrity. He passed his love and passion for the game to his three sons, and we still carry that love and passion today. He has since passed to a better place. This is the time of the year that I think about him the most.
Secondly, I want to thank my great uncle and long time Mt. Pleasant JV Baseball coach, Frank Demski. Uncle Frank, my mother's uncle, is a person that I always wanted to see when we went to Mt. Pleasant to visity my grandfather. He was always willing to play catch or throw BP. Even now, I can go to Frank Demski Field in Mt. Pleasant and tell my kids who he was and what he meant to me and my love of the game.
Lastly, I want to thank Mr. Harry Kern, the long time baseball coach at Millington High School. I first remember meeting Mr. Kern in the spring of 1985 at baseball tryouts. I could not believe that I had finally met someone outside of my family that loved the game as much as we did. It was amazing. The spring seemed to fly by, as I sat and listened and loved all the stories and phliosophies that this man had to share. It was like I had a front row seat with Ernie Harwell. To this day, whenever I see Mr. Kern, I just love to talk baseball with him.
To all three men, thank you. Happy spring to all, and Go Tigerssssssssssssssssss!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Tuesday, February 12, 2008
Yzerman Inducted
"The Captain" has defined the Detroit Red Wings my entire adult life. He was the person the Red Wings looked to lead them to Lord Stanley's cup. He was the person they looked to for the big goal. He was the person they looked to for the great pass. He was the person they looked to for the inspirational speach. For 20+ years he was the Red Wings. He has now taken his place among the great sports figures from Michigan.
Last evening, Steve Yzerman was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. A recogintion well deserved.
Yzerman is one the those throw back athletes. He is loyal to the team that drafted him number 4 overall in the 1983 draft, spending his in entire career in Hockeytown. He is the silent leader who avoided trouble. He is a role model for kids. He is the person hockey players should aspire to be.
Steve Yzerman is arguably the greatest sports figure in Michigan sports history. In my opinion, he is the greatest. Yes, bigger than Gordie Howe, Al Kaline, Joe Dumars, Alan Trammell, etc. Congrats!!!!!!!!!
Chris Berman exposed
Boomer has a potty mouth. Beware of explicit, but funny lanugage. I had one of those days last week:) Smile Chris, and have a cold pint.
Last evening, Steve Yzerman was inducted into the Michigan Sports Hall of Fame. A recogintion well deserved.
Yzerman is one the those throw back athletes. He is loyal to the team that drafted him number 4 overall in the 1983 draft, spending his in entire career in Hockeytown. He is the silent leader who avoided trouble. He is a role model for kids. He is the person hockey players should aspire to be.
Steve Yzerman is arguably the greatest sports figure in Michigan sports history. In my opinion, he is the greatest. Yes, bigger than Gordie Howe, Al Kaline, Joe Dumars, Alan Trammell, etc. Congrats!!!!!!!!!
Chris Berman exposed
Boomer has a potty mouth. Beware of explicit, but funny lanugage. I had one of those days last week:) Smile Chris, and have a cold pint.
Tuesday, February 5, 2008
Quitting
Let me start this by saying, that if I ever had the chance to send my kids to college to play basketball I would have sent them anywhere Bob Knight was the head coach. I believe that he took boys and made men out of them. He may not have always acted like a gentlemen or a scholar, but he always turned out men.
That said, why in the world is he quitting on his team? The man who always pushed his team to the limits. Never say never. Do not quit. He is quitting. By all accounts coming out of Texas it is not for health reasons, but because he is tired. What he was not tired in September when he signed a contract extension? Was he not tired before he won his 900th career game?
I am sure a lot of people will be reaping praise on this man (even the ones who tried to hang him years ago), but this was nothing but a cowardly, hypocritical decision. He is quitting on his team.
Monday, February 4, 2008
Granderson Locked Up
From ESPN.com
"The Detroit Tigers and center fielder Curtis Granderson agreed to a multiyear deal, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.
Contract terms were not immediately known.
Last season, Granderson joined Jimmy Rollins, Willie Mays and Frank "Wildfire" Schulte as the only players in major league history with 20 stolen bases, 20 homers, 20 triples and 20 doubles in a single season.
The 26-year-old Granderson, who is not yet eligible for salary arbitration, is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2011 season."
This is yet more good news out of Tigertown for all Tiger fans. I was always worried he might want to go to his hometown Chicago after 2011. Sounds like we will have him for quite some time.
"The Detroit Tigers and center fielder Curtis Granderson agreed to a multiyear deal, sources told ESPN The Magazine's Buster Olney.
Contract terms were not immediately known.
Last season, Granderson joined Jimmy Rollins, Willie Mays and Frank "Wildfire" Schulte as the only players in major league history with 20 stolen bases, 20 homers, 20 triples and 20 doubles in a single season.
The 26-year-old Granderson, who is not yet eligible for salary arbitration, is scheduled to become a free agent after the 2011 season."
This is yet more good news out of Tigertown for all Tiger fans. I was always worried he might want to go to his hometown Chicago after 2011. Sounds like we will have him for quite some time.
Thursday, January 31, 2008
What is a sport?
I have had a few conversations lately regarding sports and leisure activities (athletic events). What exactly is a sport? What is an athletic event? Are the terms interchangeable, or do they describe seperate events? The following is the Selich definition of the two, and some examples of the two. Let me know what you think?
A sport is defined as a competition between a person (or group of people i.e. team) against a seperate person or team. The person or team will try to prevent the other person or team from scoring a definitive point while trying to score a point themselves.
I bolded the two words that I believe are the most important words in the definition. These two words seperate a sport from a an athletic event. I say atheltic event because some of these events take a tremendous amount of athletic ability. By nature they are all competitive. A sport is always an athletic event, but an athletic event is not always a sport.
Here is my breakdown:
Sport
A sport is defined as a competition between a person (or group of people i.e. team) against a seperate person or team. The person or team will try to prevent the other person or team from scoring a definitive point while trying to score a point themselves.
I bolded the two words that I believe are the most important words in the definition. These two words seperate a sport from a an athletic event. I say atheltic event because some of these events take a tremendous amount of athletic ability. By nature they are all competitive. A sport is always an athletic event, but an athletic event is not always a sport.
Here is my breakdown:
Sport
- Baseball/Softball
- Football
- Basketball
- Hockey (Ice & Field)
- Rugby
- Polo
- Water Polo
- Lacrosse
- Tennis
- Volleyball
- Cricket
- Fencing
Athletic (Leisure) Event
- Golf
- Bowling
- Gymnastics
- Figure Skating
- Swimming/Diving
- Wrestling ?
- Cross Crounty (Run & Ski)
- Track & Field
- Horse Shoes
- Boxing ?
- Skiing
- Snowboarding
- Cycling
- Equestrian
- Darts
- Billiards
- Handball
I put a question mark by boxing and wrestling because if there is a knock out or pin those are definitely definitive, but other than that the points are subjective.
Monday, January 28, 2008
Sunday, January 27, 2008
Super Bowl Predictions
It's time to make your picks.
With just a week left to go until the greatest Sunday of the year, it's time now to make your Super Bowl picks.
Let's make it more interesting than just picking the winner - Let's pick a couple of different categories to pick from.
Let's say...first touchdown, first touchdown pass, etc.
Any other suggestions on categories before we get started?
Who will win?
Just to get it out of the way....New England 41, New York 17 in one of the most boring blowouts in Super Bowl history. The game will stink...the most fascinating aspect will be history in the making....the Patriots will be the first team in NFL history to 19-0 and, unless they do it again next year, might just be the last.
Tom Brady will throw for 350+ yards and for three TDs and immediately after the game concludes, his coronation as the games greatest QB to ever don a helmet will begin. It will be the fourth Super Bowl for Brady in his young career and I don't think he is even 30 years old yet. Just think of how many more he can win...
What are you eating?
Sometimes, the best part of the game is the cuisine at the parties. At the Sicotte bash this year, we will be dining on a culinary feast, the likes of which may have never been seen. We wil be dining on a fine selection of Tex-Mex courses, hopefully with hot spices and hot sauces that will all but encourage the diners to drink in excess the chosen spirit they brought to the party. In the past, we used to base our menu on the geographic location of the game. For instance, when the game was in Miami, we dined on a selection of seafood, when the game was in New Orleans, creole food and so forth and so fort. This year, with the game in Arizona, it's Tex-Mex time.
With just a week left to go until the greatest Sunday of the year, it's time now to make your Super Bowl picks.
Let's make it more interesting than just picking the winner - Let's pick a couple of different categories to pick from.
Let's say...first touchdown, first touchdown pass, etc.
Any other suggestions on categories before we get started?
Who will win?
Just to get it out of the way....New England 41, New York 17 in one of the most boring blowouts in Super Bowl history. The game will stink...the most fascinating aspect will be history in the making....the Patriots will be the first team in NFL history to 19-0 and, unless they do it again next year, might just be the last.
Tom Brady will throw for 350+ yards and for three TDs and immediately after the game concludes, his coronation as the games greatest QB to ever don a helmet will begin. It will be the fourth Super Bowl for Brady in his young career and I don't think he is even 30 years old yet. Just think of how many more he can win...
What are you eating?
Sometimes, the best part of the game is the cuisine at the parties. At the Sicotte bash this year, we will be dining on a culinary feast, the likes of which may have never been seen. We wil be dining on a fine selection of Tex-Mex courses, hopefully with hot spices and hot sauces that will all but encourage the diners to drink in excess the chosen spirit they brought to the party. In the past, we used to base our menu on the geographic location of the game. For instance, when the game was in Miami, we dined on a selection of seafood, when the game was in New Orleans, creole food and so forth and so fort. This year, with the game in Arizona, it's Tex-Mex time.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
Define a Piece of Crap
I knew if I looked long enough on the world wide web, I would find the definition I was trying to find.
"crap1 /kræp/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[krap] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation noun, verb, crapped, crap·ping.
–noun
1.Vulgar.
a.excrement.
b.an act of defecation.
c.Jose Canseco
2.Slang: Sometimes Vulgar.
a.nonsense; drivel.
b.falsehood, exaggeration, propaganda, or the like.
3.refuse; rubbish; junk; litter: Will you clean up that crap!"
Does anyone take this guy seriously? Yes, I know his book "Juiced" and him were vindicated some what by all the needle poking athletes that call themselves professionals. Where does it stop with him? Reports out currently have Jose trying to extort money from Maggilo Ordonez for some kind of movie that Canseco wants to make. Jose apparently told Maggilo he would not mention him in Canseco's new book if Maggilo would give him money for the movie. What? I know Maggs does not want his name anywhere near the word steroid, but extortion is extortion. Here's hoping that Maggs takes him down. You piece of crap.
I have also heard that Jose is going to mention Andrew Selich in his next book. Andrew did hit 19 round-trippers in our softball league last summer. :)
Since I am ranting about a piece of crap, Kwame Kilpatrick, mayor of the City of Detroit, has been caught being untruthful while under oath. Read about it here. Granted this has not much to do about sports, but this just gives reporters a chance to talk about this on national shows when the NCAA comes to town for the regionals this year and Final Four next year. Thanks Kwame, you piece of crap.
"crap1 /kræp/ Pronunciation Key - Show Spelled Pronunciation[krap] Pronunciation Key - Show IPA Pronunciation noun, verb, crapped, crap·ping.
–noun
1.Vulgar.
a.excrement.
b.an act of defecation.
c.Jose Canseco
2.Slang: Sometimes Vulgar.
a.nonsense; drivel.
b.falsehood, exaggeration, propaganda, or the like.
3.refuse; rubbish; junk; litter: Will you clean up that crap!"
Does anyone take this guy seriously? Yes, I know his book "Juiced" and him were vindicated some what by all the needle poking athletes that call themselves professionals. Where does it stop with him? Reports out currently have Jose trying to extort money from Maggilo Ordonez for some kind of movie that Canseco wants to make. Jose apparently told Maggilo he would not mention him in Canseco's new book if Maggilo would give him money for the movie. What? I know Maggs does not want his name anywhere near the word steroid, but extortion is extortion. Here's hoping that Maggs takes him down. You piece of crap.
I have also heard that Jose is going to mention Andrew Selich in his next book. Andrew did hit 19 round-trippers in our softball league last summer. :)
Since I am ranting about a piece of crap, Kwame Kilpatrick, mayor of the City of Detroit, has been caught being untruthful while under oath. Read about it here. Granted this has not much to do about sports, but this just gives reporters a chance to talk about this on national shows when the NCAA comes to town for the regionals this year and Final Four next year. Thanks Kwame, you piece of crap.
Thursday, January 17, 2008
Great Lakes Loons
Not sure how many people had a chance last summer to take in a game at Dow Diamond and watch the Loons play ball. I was a wonderful ballpark. My family and I were able to sit on a grassy hill on blankets. The atmosphere was wonderful and a great time was had by all. I took the following off the Loons website. I would recommend everyone take part in enjoying a professional baseball game at Dow Diamond.
The 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game, powered by Dow Corning, is coming to Dow Diamond on June 17, 2008. The event is being sponsored by Dow Corning.Dow Corning additionally has title sponsorship of three other key events associated with the game: The All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning; The Hometown Hitter, powered by Dow Corning and The All-Star Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning.“Dow Corning has demonstrated a tremendous commitment to the community through a myriad of programs, including a strong commitment to the Loons,” said Paul Barbeau, Loons President and General Manager. “We are thrilled to have Dow Corning continue that commitment through their partnership of the All-Star Game, Home Run Derby, Hometown Hitter, and Fan Fest.”“At Dow Corning, we want the places we live, work, and play to be enjoyable for all,” said Abbe Mulders, Dow Corning Chief Information Officer and board member of the Michigan Baseball Foundation. “It’s about investing in local opportunities to improve the quality of life in our communities, and our sponsorship of the All-Star festivities is a terrific way to do just that.”The Midwest League All-Star Game has a storied history. The game was first played in 1964 and has been played every year since 1966. Past participants of the game include Cy Young Award Winners Greg Maddux, Johan Santana and Jake Peavy; MVPs Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Justin Morneau; and current Tigers stars Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis, Carlos Guillen and Joel Zumaya.This year, the 44th annual Midwest League All-Star Game, powered by Dow Corning comes to Dow Diamond, Tuesday, June 17th.The game will be broadcast live on My-5 TV and produced by WNEM. The radio broadcast will also be carried live on WYLZ, 100.9 and online at Loons.com. Dow Corning will be the title sponsorship of all TV, radio and internet broadcasts.The event serves as an excellent opportunity to showcase the award-winning ballpark and the Mid-Michigan community while offering fans the chance to see the stars of tomorrow up close.
2008 ALL-STAR FANFEST, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - The 2008 All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning, is a three day event, June 15-17. Admission will be free. During the All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning, visitors can take part in a multitude of events such as live concerts, skills challenges, photo opportunities and exhibits about our national past time. The FanFest will take place at Dow Diamond’s front lawn beginning on Sunday June 15.
2008 ALL-STAR HOME RUN DERBY, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - The 2008 All-Star Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning, will take place at Dow Diamond on Monday, June 16. The competition will feature eight Midwest League All-Star sluggers. In addition, one local high school student-athlete will qualify in the weeks and months leading up to the Derby to compete against the pros. The event will also mark the first formal introduction of the All-Star teams to the fans. The Home Run Derby will be broadcast live on WYLZ, 100.9-FM.
2008 HOMETOWN HITTER, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - As part of the 2008 Midwest League All-Star Home Run Derby, a high school home run derby will be held leading up to the Midwest League event. Titled the Hometown Hitter, powered by Dow Corning, this unique event will enable high school athletes to vie for the opportunity to compete alongside the pros in the Midwest League Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning, June 16. Local high school varsity baseball coaches will facilitate the selection of one participant per high school to compete in the event. Qualifying events will take place at Dow Diamond in the weeks and months leading up to the Midwest League All-Star Home Run Derby. One high school hitter will emerge as the winner and will compete as the ninth contestant on June 16.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - With its title sponsorship package, Dow Corning will also receive print advertisements in the Loons Nest, Logo recognition on Loons.com and all marketing materials, and prominent signage throughout the stadium.The three-day event is expected to have significant regional economic impact. During the events, Dow Diamond, Midland, the Tri Cities and the Mid-Michigan Region will be in a national spotlight. Team representatives and employees, league officials, baseball executives, players’ families, scouts and fans nationwide will be visiting the area. Tickets to the all-star game and homerun derby are included in all 2008 Loons full-season and half-season ticket packages. Individual tickets to the all-star game and home run derby will go on sale to all mini-plan ticket holders in late February, and then go on sale to the general public on March 1.
The 2008 Midwest League All-Star Game, powered by Dow Corning, is coming to Dow Diamond on June 17, 2008. The event is being sponsored by Dow Corning.Dow Corning additionally has title sponsorship of three other key events associated with the game: The All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning; The Hometown Hitter, powered by Dow Corning and The All-Star Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning.“Dow Corning has demonstrated a tremendous commitment to the community through a myriad of programs, including a strong commitment to the Loons,” said Paul Barbeau, Loons President and General Manager. “We are thrilled to have Dow Corning continue that commitment through their partnership of the All-Star Game, Home Run Derby, Hometown Hitter, and Fan Fest.”“At Dow Corning, we want the places we live, work, and play to be enjoyable for all,” said Abbe Mulders, Dow Corning Chief Information Officer and board member of the Michigan Baseball Foundation. “It’s about investing in local opportunities to improve the quality of life in our communities, and our sponsorship of the All-Star festivities is a terrific way to do just that.”The Midwest League All-Star Game has a storied history. The game was first played in 1964 and has been played every year since 1966. Past participants of the game include Cy Young Award Winners Greg Maddux, Johan Santana and Jake Peavy; MVPs Alex Rodriguez, Albert Pujols and Justin Morneau; and current Tigers stars Miguel Cabrera, Dontrelle Willis, Carlos Guillen and Joel Zumaya.This year, the 44th annual Midwest League All-Star Game, powered by Dow Corning comes to Dow Diamond, Tuesday, June 17th.The game will be broadcast live on My-5 TV and produced by WNEM. The radio broadcast will also be carried live on WYLZ, 100.9 and online at Loons.com. Dow Corning will be the title sponsorship of all TV, radio and internet broadcasts.The event serves as an excellent opportunity to showcase the award-winning ballpark and the Mid-Michigan community while offering fans the chance to see the stars of tomorrow up close.
2008 ALL-STAR FANFEST, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - The 2008 All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning, is a three day event, June 15-17. Admission will be free. During the All-Star FanFest, powered by Dow Corning, visitors can take part in a multitude of events such as live concerts, skills challenges, photo opportunities and exhibits about our national past time. The FanFest will take place at Dow Diamond’s front lawn beginning on Sunday June 15.
2008 ALL-STAR HOME RUN DERBY, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - The 2008 All-Star Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning, will take place at Dow Diamond on Monday, June 16. The competition will feature eight Midwest League All-Star sluggers. In addition, one local high school student-athlete will qualify in the weeks and months leading up to the Derby to compete against the pros. The event will also mark the first formal introduction of the All-Star teams to the fans. The Home Run Derby will be broadcast live on WYLZ, 100.9-FM.
2008 HOMETOWN HITTER, POWERED BY DOW CORNING - As part of the 2008 Midwest League All-Star Home Run Derby, a high school home run derby will be held leading up to the Midwest League event. Titled the Hometown Hitter, powered by Dow Corning, this unique event will enable high school athletes to vie for the opportunity to compete alongside the pros in the Midwest League Home Run Derby, powered by Dow Corning, June 16. Local high school varsity baseball coaches will facilitate the selection of one participant per high school to compete in the event. Qualifying events will take place at Dow Diamond in the weeks and months leading up to the Midwest League All-Star Home Run Derby. One high school hitter will emerge as the winner and will compete as the ninth contestant on June 16.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION - With its title sponsorship package, Dow Corning will also receive print advertisements in the Loons Nest, Logo recognition on Loons.com and all marketing materials, and prominent signage throughout the stadium.The three-day event is expected to have significant regional economic impact. During the events, Dow Diamond, Midland, the Tri Cities and the Mid-Michigan Region will be in a national spotlight. Team representatives and employees, league officials, baseball executives, players’ families, scouts and fans nationwide will be visiting the area. Tickets to the all-star game and homerun derby are included in all 2008 Loons full-season and half-season ticket packages. Individual tickets to the all-star game and home run derby will go on sale to all mini-plan ticket holders in late February, and then go on sale to the general public on March 1.
Friday, January 11, 2008
Refs cry foul over pay
Refs cry foul over pay
Check out the above link to the story in the Detroit News concerning the high school officials complaining about not receiving enough pay.
I did some quick calculating about how many miles an official would have to travel to actually LOSE money when officiating a high school basketball game. According to www.michigangasprices.com the average price for a gallon of gas in the State of Michigan today is $3.13. Also, the current CAFE miles per gallon rating for vehicles is 25 miles per gallon. If an official is receiving $50 to officiate a game, that person would have to make a round trip of 399 miles to actually LOSE money. Okay, lets be a little more reasonable, assume their vehicle is only getting 15 miles per gallon. The official would still have to travel 239 miles to LOSE money.
I was an official for about 6 years after high school. I needed the extra money, and it was a great way to stay in shape during the winter months. The farthest I remember driving on one night was 100 miles. Gas prices have risen since then, but these guys/ladies are not losing money. They are just not making as much money as they once were. This is a ridiculous attempt at trying to extort extra money from already cash strapped schools. If they do have a single night walk-out or "strike" I would hope the MHSAA takes a stand and does not let the officials operate another high school game in the State of Michigan.
Check out the above link to the story in the Detroit News concerning the high school officials complaining about not receiving enough pay.
I did some quick calculating about how many miles an official would have to travel to actually LOSE money when officiating a high school basketball game. According to www.michigangasprices.com the average price for a gallon of gas in the State of Michigan today is $3.13. Also, the current CAFE miles per gallon rating for vehicles is 25 miles per gallon. If an official is receiving $50 to officiate a game, that person would have to make a round trip of 399 miles to actually LOSE money. Okay, lets be a little more reasonable, assume their vehicle is only getting 15 miles per gallon. The official would still have to travel 239 miles to LOSE money.
I was an official for about 6 years after high school. I needed the extra money, and it was a great way to stay in shape during the winter months. The farthest I remember driving on one night was 100 miles. Gas prices have risen since then, but these guys/ladies are not losing money. They are just not making as much money as they once were. This is a ridiculous attempt at trying to extort extra money from already cash strapped schools. If they do have a single night walk-out or "strike" I would hope the MHSAA takes a stand and does not let the officials operate another high school game in the State of Michigan.
Tuesday, January 8, 2008
Goose Gossage
Just a quick broadcast from our newly inducted hall of famer Rich "Goose" Gossage. Oh how I wish for the class from last years inductees. WARNING GRAPHIC LANGUAGE IS SPOKEN IN THE FOLLOWING VIDEO.
This is a well deserved honor for Goose Gossage. He was ahead of his time. Closing many games out by getting 6-7 outs. My favorite Gossage moment is still Game 5 1984 World Series when Kirk Gibson took him deep. A little bit of baseball trivia for everyone: Who is the only person to hit a home run in his last two (2) World Series at bats? You guessed it: Michigan's own Kirk Gibson.
Speaking of Kirk Gibson, here is the 1984 World Series at bat versus The Goose:
This is a well deserved honor for Goose Gossage. He was ahead of his time. Closing many games out by getting 6-7 outs. My favorite Gossage moment is still Game 5 1984 World Series when Kirk Gibson took him deep. A little bit of baseball trivia for everyone: Who is the only person to hit a home run in his last two (2) World Series at bats? You guessed it: Michigan's own Kirk Gibson.
Speaking of Kirk Gibson, here is the 1984 World Series at bat versus The Goose:
Sunday, January 6, 2008
Basketball or Football
Check out this link at MLive. Vassar played John Glenn in boys basketball last night. I actually thought I was looking at an old football box score before reading the roundup.
Saturday, January 5, 2008
I don't believe what I just saw!
The words of Jack Buck describing the majestic home run of Kirk Gibson from Game 1 of the 1988 World Series could have been used Friday night in Sebewaing. The statement would not have been describing something beautiful. It would have described something very very ugly.
Cass City High School played Unionville-Sebewaing Area (USA) High School in a contest of boys varsity basketball. You can read a game story at The Tuscola Today or the Huron Daily Tribune website. I want to tell you about the ugly part of the game.
With one minute remaining in regulation, Cass City had possession after a stoppage in play. Only down by nine points, Cass City worked the ball around for about 12 seconds before missing a shot. USA rebounded the miss and was immediately fouled. USA went to the line to shoot their two free throws. At this point in the game things still looked up for Cass City, despite a poor shooting half. USA was only 4-13 from the line and promptly missed both free throws. USA jumped on the rebound and passed the ball to the top of the key. This is when the ugliness began.
With only 43 seconds remaining, Cass City only needed to foul to put USA back at the line. Cass City did not foul. In fact they backed away from the USA ball handler. Thinking this may a mistake by the players, I looked at the bench and realized this was coached. The Cass City coach was not screaming at his players to foul. He just sat on the bench doing nothing. I believe he instructed his players to not foul USA. In other words, he gave up. Only down 9 points (possible 3 shots) and 43 seconds remaining, he gave up. This is not only ugly but down right irresponsible. The coach should be asked to resign immediately. That will not happen because guess what he is the athletic director as well. What type of lesson is he coaching his players? The lesson taught last night: give up. Disgusting, ugly, reprehensible, use any adjective you want. Jack Buck's line fits.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Tim Furno
I would like to congratulate Mr. Tim Furno for being elected to the Michigan High School Football Coaches Hall of Fame. It is a wonderful recognition for him. I saw Tim this morning and personnaly congratulated him. I am sure a story is to follow on Andrew Selich's Tuscola County Sports blog.
Friday, December 28, 2007
'Roid Busting PI's
Rusty Hardin, Roger Clemens attorney, has hired his own private Sherlock Holmes to check to validity of The Mitchell Report and to interview witnesses that Geroge Mitchell seemed to ignore. Well, I am glad that Clemens is fighting the attachment of his name to this report. He has stated that he did not use the performance enhancing drugs. If that is true then he should fight the allegation with all the wealth that he has accumalted. I believe that he is the greatest pitcher of my generation. Of course if he was injecting, that belief would change. I am going to take him at his word until proven otherwise. Besides, he has only told us he was retiring 3 times.
Friday, December 21, 2007
Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!
Those words never sounded so good to Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons. In fact, I heard today that he has put a hit out on "Father Time" unless he agrees to skip over the last week or so left of 2007. The founder of Home Depot or Home Depot (however you say it) has his franchise player and PETA loving quarterback arrested for his role in an illegal dog fighting ring. After declaring his innocence, Michael Vick pleaded guilty and was sentenced to 23 months of hoping that Bubba knows about the product KY.
Arthur Blank also hired a new head coach this year. That is a fresh beginning for the franchise to start the year. The honeymoon did not last long. Bobby Petrino decided that after going 3-10, he did not like the NFL anymore. He took the open position at the University of Arkansas, replacing Huston Nutt. So Blank, starts the year with a new offensive minded coach to go along with his franchise quarterback, and finishes with neither. The year though did not get any better for Mr. Blank.
Earlier this month, Bill Parcells agreed in principle to take over the football operations for the Falcons. When Mr. Blockbuster Video found out that the Tuna was available he said, "Mr. Tuna sir please come join my sad sack franchise instead of the sad sack franchise in Atlanta. Besides we have better weather."
The Tuna replied, "Sure I love the ocean."
So with that statement Arthur Blank gets kicked in the Jimmy for the 3rd time this year. Please Mr. Blank, let Father Time live. The year 2008 is almost here. Besides, it can not get any worse this year. You could have Joey Harrington as a quarterback on your roster. Wait, never mind do with Father Time as you wish. You need 2008 more than the rest of us.
Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Arthur Blank also hired a new head coach this year. That is a fresh beginning for the franchise to start the year. The honeymoon did not last long. Bobby Petrino decided that after going 3-10, he did not like the NFL anymore. He took the open position at the University of Arkansas, replacing Huston Nutt. So Blank, starts the year with a new offensive minded coach to go along with his franchise quarterback, and finishes with neither. The year though did not get any better for Mr. Blank.
Earlier this month, Bill Parcells agreed in principle to take over the football operations for the Falcons. When Mr. Blockbuster Video found out that the Tuna was available he said, "Mr. Tuna sir please come join my sad sack franchise instead of the sad sack franchise in Atlanta. Besides we have better weather."
The Tuna replied, "Sure I love the ocean."
So with that statement Arthur Blank gets kicked in the Jimmy for the 3rd time this year. Please Mr. Blank, let Father Time live. The year 2008 is almost here. Besides, it can not get any worse this year. You could have Joey Harrington as a quarterback on your roster. Wait, never mind do with Father Time as you wish. You need 2008 more than the rest of us.
Happy New Year!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Thursday, December 20, 2007
Detroit Tigers and D-Train
As reprinted from ESPN.com:
"Pitcher Dontrelle Willis has reached an agreement in principle on a three-year, $29 million contract extension with the Detroit Tigers, a source told ESPN.com.
The deal includes incentives that could push the total value to more than $30 million, the source said. An announcement was expected after Willis took a physical exam Thursday in Detroit.
The Tigers acquired Willis and star third baseman Miguel Cabrera from the Florida Marlins in an eight-player trade at the winter meetings two weeks ago in Nashville. Willis will join a Detroit rotation that also includes Justin Verlander, Jeremy Bonderman, Nate Robertson and Kenny Rogers.
Willis, 25, has a 68-54 record an a 3.78 ERA in parts of five seasons with the Marlins. He went 10-15 with a 5.17 ERA last season.
Willis earned a base salary of $6.45 million for the Marlins last year. He would have been eligible for free agency after the 2009 season, but is now locked up through 2010."
The deal includes incentives that could push the total value to more than $30 million, the source said. An announcement was expected after Willis took a physical exam Thursday in Detroit.
The Tigers acquired Willis and star third baseman Miguel Cabrera from the Florida Marlins in an eight-player trade at the winter meetings two weeks ago in Nashville. Willis will join a Detroit rotation that also includes Justin Verlander, Jeremy Bonderman, Nate Robertson and Kenny Rogers.
Willis, 25, has a 68-54 record an a 3.78 ERA in parts of five seasons with the Marlins. He went 10-15 with a 5.17 ERA last season.
Willis earned a base salary of $6.45 million for the Marlins last year. He would have been eligible for free agency after the 2009 season, but is now locked up through 2010."
The countdown clock to first spring training game has started. Go, Tigers!!!!!!!!!!!!
The Tigers annual bus caravan through Michigan will again be making a few stops in Mid-Michigan. On January 14, 2008, the North Bus will be stopping at The Ryder Center at Sagainaw Valley State University and at Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn. Times and players on the North Bus are to be announced at a later date.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
