Sports: Tellin’ It Like It is
Don Murphy
September 10, 2006
But First, A Word From Our Sponsor
First, I wanted to take this quick opportunity to thank everyone who has written me and asked when a new article would be issued. Please know that I will do my best to keep the ideas fresh and the stories flowing. I am going through a very busy time in my life, both professionally and personally, so while these articles might not be as regular as they should be, I have not forgotten about writing it, and I thank you all for your support. Now, without further adieu….
The year 2000 just called....
If anyone had told me in April that we’d be on a collision course for another Subway Series, I would have colored you bonkers. If you recall, I had solid expectations for both New York teams, but nothing to this level.
Last month, when the Yankees had that big five game series in Boston against the Red Sox, I said to a co-worker (a diehard Red Sox fan), that whoever took that series would win the division. I predicted the Yankees would take three out of five. The fact that they swept the series shows me that this just wasn’t the Red Sox year. And, after that series, Boston’s downward spiral happened quicker than a standard celebrity marriage.
So, the Yankees are coasting into the playoffs as the American League East Champions. Their pitching has been solid, and with Gary Sheffield and Hideki Matsui set to return, their prospect for another World Series victory looks bright.
On the other side of the river, the Mets have certainly proven that they deserve to be where they are right now. The experts will tell you that the Mets are just a big fish in a weak pond. I will admit that the National League East has been less than stellar this year. But, if you look at the entire season, the Mets have proven that they can hang with the other league leaders as well, such as the Cardinals, Reds, Dodgers and Padres. So, the Mets, my friends are the real deal. If they can hold up in the playoffs and make the World Series, they will make a solid effort; however, I don’t see them grabbing the golden good just yet.
The Captain’s prediction: Yankees vs. Mets in the World Series. Yankees take the Championship in six games.
Flirting with Legends?
Just a quick anecdote: Earlier this year, when we were doing our fantasy baseball draft, my cousin, who was the pick before me, grabbed the guy who was to be my next pick…
Philadelphia Phillies first baseman, Ryan Howard, who now has 56 homeruns.
One word: Grrrrrrrrrrrrrr!
Are You Ready?
For me, the first week of the NFL season is like Christmas and Easter combined. A clean slate, with everyone tied for first. Sadly, it won’t remain that long for the New York Jets. As big a fan as I am, this is a rebuilding year, pure and simple. We have a new head coach, a new coaching staff, a new offensive alignment, and the same mediocre quarterback. Considering it will take the Jets this season to evaluate what works and what doesn’t, I see the Jets winning between four and six games. Viva la draft pick!!!
As for the Giants, the experts pick them as a solid choice to make the Superbowl. I think, that while Eli Manning is destined to be a great quarterback (it’s in the blood), he has a lot to prove. The idea behind making the playoffs is actually scoring points once you get there, something Big Blue did not do the last time out. If Manning can be consistent and Jeremy Shockey can tone down the off-field drama, watch the Giants make a solid run for the championship.
Until next time, that’s my story and I’m sticking to it.
