Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Saltzman Says...Sharks 6-5 win becomes Instant Classic
Instant Classic on NHL Network
Being broadcast this morning at 11am on NHL Network
Sharks comeback one for the ages
Read about the Game from the San Jose Sharks Staff Point of View
Recap of the Game
Check out the official NHL.com Recap
Setoguchi scores in OT
Official AP Story of the comeback win
Being broadcast this morning at 11am on NHL Network
Sharks comeback one for the ages
Read about the Game from the San Jose Sharks Staff Point of View
Recap of the Game
Check out the official NHL.com Recap
Setoguchi scores in OT
Official AP Story of the comeback win
 |
| Devin Setoguchi (middle) scored the game winner in overtime |
Monday, April 18, 2011
Saltzman Says...Hire Rick Adelman
Rick Adelman has parted ways with the Houston Rockets. The Warriors have a good coach in Keith Smart, but the Warriors need a great coach. The Warriors had Rick Adelman once before, and gave in zero talent the first time he was here. He admitted as much in the article that good players make good coaches. However, if we can convince Adelman to come to Oakland, and bring in a big man he can work with, we will have the pieces in place to get to the post-season. We also might be able to bring in great role players like Chuck Hayes, Shane Battier and even Yao Ming. Riley talked about bringing in another big man. Hayes and Ming are among several centers available this off-season. Riley talked about bringing in another defender on the perimeter, and Shane Battier is certainly the definition of that. Battier and Dorell Wright locking up the 48 minutes at the small forward would give us a great upgrade. We also need a third guard, and with the hiring of Bob Myers who knows the league and was the agent for some pretty special big guards like Brandon Roy, Tyreke Evans and great role players like Kendrick Perkins.
Saltzman Says...The Warriors get a D+
Golden State Warriors: D+
The Warriors didn't make the playoffs for the 16th time in 17 seasons. At this point in the Franchise's history, making the playoffs should be considered a C. In a league where 16 of the 30 teams make the post-season every year, a drought like this is unforgivable. Making the playoffs is what they are suppose to do. If a student does the bare minimum in class, it is a C effort, where as if they go above and beyond, it is an A or B effort. The Warriors have been a D franchise for nearly two decades, and getting the 8th seed in the post-season would be a C. If they could win a series, like in 2007, or get one of the top 5 or 6 seeds, that would be a B, and obviously getting to the Conference Finals or better would be an A.
Joe Lacob and Peter Guber: C-
The owners did more talking than walking in their first year as owners. They approved the upgrade of talent over future with the David Lee trade, they made a lot of promises that haven't panned out and they continue to talk big. They get a C- for doing nothing yet. They seem to have the potential to be A owners down the road. The hiring of Bob Myers, a great agent who knows basketball, to be an assistant GM is a step in the right direction. We'll see what they do with the coach.
Larry Riley: C
Riley started his career with the Warriors as an assistant coach, and then his promotion to the front office started by dumping Jamal Crawford, Stephen Jackson and Corey Maggette. While those three players are competing for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, the Warriors were downgraded with every trade. However, the cost cutting has finally ended. Now, with a more determined ownership group, and a more patient approach, the Warriors have spent more on scouting and on the draft. Stephen Curry and Ekpe Udoh are certainly two building blocks for a strong future. The Warriors signing of Dorell Wright this off-season (a deal worked out between Larry Riley and Bob Myers) was also a great piece. A great outside shooter who can defend his position well could turn out to be one of the great free agent steals in a long time. This off-season will test Riley. Can he bring in a big man who can push Andris Biedrins in practice and play alongside Lee and Udoh. A fifth big man to go with those three and Lou Amundson will be his biggest test. Then, he needs to add a wing player that will be a defensive upgrade over the collection of Al Thornton, Vladimir Radmanovic and Reggie Williams. Finally, he will need to bring in a third guard who can be a significant contributor. Acie Law and Jeremy Lin showed flashes, primarily because they work hard, but they need an talent upgrade at the position, especially defensively.
Keith Smart: C
Smart was in a lose-lose when he took over for Don Nelson. The Warriors needed someone who would light a fire in the players on the court and keep the locker room a great place to come to work. However, even after accomplishing both, he couldn't match the strategy of more seasoned coaches, and he couldn't get his players to out talent more talented teams. Being asked to make the playoffs without an all-star or a defensive presence in the paint is a near impossible task for any coach. Yet ultimately, it might be exactly why the owners look for a more proven coach to replace Smart this off-season.
Players by Grade:
Dorell Wright: A-
Wright is the only A in the group because he is the only player this season that exceeded everyone's expectations. Wright became the first player in the history of the NBA to score more points in year seven than he had scored in six previous years. If that doesn't make him a shoe-in for the Most Improved Player award, then they should ban the award from ever being given. He became one of the most reliable outside shooters in the game and gave him an opportunity to take part in the 3 point shootout during All-Star weekend. He also was the team's best perimeter defender, which isn't saying much, but he did do a great job defending his man. He was the best player on the Warriors at both ends of the floor.
Monta Ellis: B+
Monta was one of the leading scorers in all of baseball, became a great closer at the end of games, and despite getting banged up all year, was healthy enough to play almost the entire season. He scored nearly 2,000 points, and he improved defensively. Yet, as the Warriors best players, he rarely made his teammates better and he didn't play enough on the defensive end to warrant being the best player on the team. Great players lead their teams to the playoffs. He hasn't yet. Baron Davis was the last great player on the Warriors. Ellis hasn't become great yet.
Stephen Curry: B
Curry didn't play as well as people expected, but as a second year point guard in a point guard league, expectations were high. He did become one of the most exciting offense point guards in the game in just two years, earned his way to All-Star weekend for a skills competition he won, and proved at times he could outplay some of the best point guards in the game. However, as long as him and Ellis start together, they will both be downgraded overall because of their defense. Until they play better defense, they will not be A players.
Ekpe Udoh: B-
The amount of potential on the defensive end is endless, yet he had no expectations on offense. If he commits to the defensive end, without giving up his effort level on offense, he can become a great 1-2 punch with David Lee once they find another center. Out of position, Udoh played admirably. After sitting out the first few months of the season with a broken wrist, Udoh learned on the job in mid-season. A lot to ask for a rookie.
David Lee: C+
For $80 million, clearly Lee is seen by management as a building block for a championship. Together with Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry, it is clear that is what they looked at as a winning formula. It got them to 36 wins. To me, $80 million should help a team make a 16 team playoff structure out of only 30 teams. Lee did play well at times, and his numbers clearly were an upgrade at the power forward position.
Acie Law: C+
Law is an average point guard at best, but he played hard, fought for his minutes, and justified his playing time. He isn't the answer at point guard next year as Curry's backup but he had an admirable year in his second stint in Oakland.
Vladimir Radmanovic: C-
Not sure if anything was expected out of Radmanovic when he was thrown into the Stephen Jackson trade along with Raja Bell. Most likely he will not be brought back, and for how little help the team has on the bench, it is sad that they wouldn't want there most consistent bench player. That tells you a little something about how bad 'Bad Vlad' and his bench was.
Reggie Williams: C-
The fact that one of the worst teams in basektball has one of the top 3 point shooters in basketball in Williams and might not bring him back for another year should say something about the rest of his game. His inability to develop anything beyond an outside shot is why he is deserving of his grade.
Lou Amundson: D+
When healthy, he showed what he can do in an NBA game, which is fight for rebounds, play some defense, hustle, and do a lot of the intangibles that is necessary from a bench player. His time in a suit this year is as much a reason for the grade as his limited potential to do any more than what he did this season.
Jeremy Lin: D+
Lin showed flashes of toughness, defense, and some point guard ability. He clearly was successful in the D-league which does say something about his ability to contribute in the NBA. Will he be enough to backup Stephen Curry in 2011-12? I don't think he has shown enough to warrant that yet.
Al Thornton: D+
Thornton has never lived up to his potential and he was given a chance to be a backup small forward on a team desperate for offense off the bench. Thornton has Corey Maggette like potential off the bench, but he hasn't figured out how to do that night in and night out. Until he does, he won't be worthy of a rotation spot on the Warriors.
Jeff Adrien: D+
Good is he was brought back this season after posting monster rebounding numbers in the D-League. Bad is he never played well enough to showcase those skills in the Warriors rotation which is in desperate need of rebounding.
Andris Biedrins: F
Biedrins has now become a laughinstock around the league with his gutless play and one of the most overpaid players in the game. He refuses to adjust at the charity stripe, and his shot is awful. Don Nelson commented during the season that one of the reasons they let him go was by suggesting that Biedrins work with Rick Barry on underhand free throws. What a brilliant idea, from one of the best offensive minds in the game and the greatest scorer in Warriors history. No matter what Biedrins does next year, his 2010-11 will go down as one of the most pitiful by a Warrior in a long time. And that is saying something.
Charlie Bell: F
It is sad that a player like Bell can steal money from an organization. Absolute waste of space. Must be released this off-season, or moved to a team desperate for expiring contracts.
-----------------------------
Marcus Thompson III's take on the Warriors: Here is the link
The Warriors didn't make the playoffs for the 16th time in 17 seasons. At this point in the Franchise's history, making the playoffs should be considered a C. In a league where 16 of the 30 teams make the post-season every year, a drought like this is unforgivable. Making the playoffs is what they are suppose to do. If a student does the bare minimum in class, it is a C effort, where as if they go above and beyond, it is an A or B effort. The Warriors have been a D franchise for nearly two decades, and getting the 8th seed in the post-season would be a C. If they could win a series, like in 2007, or get one of the top 5 or 6 seeds, that would be a B, and obviously getting to the Conference Finals or better would be an A.
Joe Lacob and Peter Guber: C-
The owners did more talking than walking in their first year as owners. They approved the upgrade of talent over future with the David Lee trade, they made a lot of promises that haven't panned out and they continue to talk big. They get a C- for doing nothing yet. They seem to have the potential to be A owners down the road. The hiring of Bob Myers, a great agent who knows basketball, to be an assistant GM is a step in the right direction. We'll see what they do with the coach.
Larry Riley: C
Riley started his career with the Warriors as an assistant coach, and then his promotion to the front office started by dumping Jamal Crawford, Stephen Jackson and Corey Maggette. While those three players are competing for the playoffs in the Eastern Conference, the Warriors were downgraded with every trade. However, the cost cutting has finally ended. Now, with a more determined ownership group, and a more patient approach, the Warriors have spent more on scouting and on the draft. Stephen Curry and Ekpe Udoh are certainly two building blocks for a strong future. The Warriors signing of Dorell Wright this off-season (a deal worked out between Larry Riley and Bob Myers) was also a great piece. A great outside shooter who can defend his position well could turn out to be one of the great free agent steals in a long time. This off-season will test Riley. Can he bring in a big man who can push Andris Biedrins in practice and play alongside Lee and Udoh. A fifth big man to go with those three and Lou Amundson will be his biggest test. Then, he needs to add a wing player that will be a defensive upgrade over the collection of Al Thornton, Vladimir Radmanovic and Reggie Williams. Finally, he will need to bring in a third guard who can be a significant contributor. Acie Law and Jeremy Lin showed flashes, primarily because they work hard, but they need an talent upgrade at the position, especially defensively.
 |
| Nobody knew at the time that Wright would contribute so much. |
Keith Smart: C
Smart was in a lose-lose when he took over for Don Nelson. The Warriors needed someone who would light a fire in the players on the court and keep the locker room a great place to come to work. However, even after accomplishing both, he couldn't match the strategy of more seasoned coaches, and he couldn't get his players to out talent more talented teams. Being asked to make the playoffs without an all-star or a defensive presence in the paint is a near impossible task for any coach. Yet ultimately, it might be exactly why the owners look for a more proven coach to replace Smart this off-season.
Players by Grade:
Dorell Wright: A-
Wright is the only A in the group because he is the only player this season that exceeded everyone's expectations. Wright became the first player in the history of the NBA to score more points in year seven than he had scored in six previous years. If that doesn't make him a shoe-in for the Most Improved Player award, then they should ban the award from ever being given. He became one of the most reliable outside shooters in the game and gave him an opportunity to take part in the 3 point shootout during All-Star weekend. He also was the team's best perimeter defender, which isn't saying much, but he did do a great job defending his man. He was the best player on the Warriors at both ends of the floor.
Monta Ellis: B+
Monta was one of the leading scorers in all of baseball, became a great closer at the end of games, and despite getting banged up all year, was healthy enough to play almost the entire season. He scored nearly 2,000 points, and he improved defensively. Yet, as the Warriors best players, he rarely made his teammates better and he didn't play enough on the defensive end to warrant being the best player on the team. Great players lead their teams to the playoffs. He hasn't yet. Baron Davis was the last great player on the Warriors. Ellis hasn't become great yet.
Stephen Curry: B
Curry didn't play as well as people expected, but as a second year point guard in a point guard league, expectations were high. He did become one of the most exciting offense point guards in the game in just two years, earned his way to All-Star weekend for a skills competition he won, and proved at times he could outplay some of the best point guards in the game. However, as long as him and Ellis start together, they will both be downgraded overall because of their defense. Until they play better defense, they will not be A players.
Ekpe Udoh: B-
The amount of potential on the defensive end is endless, yet he had no expectations on offense. If he commits to the defensive end, without giving up his effort level on offense, he can become a great 1-2 punch with David Lee once they find another center. Out of position, Udoh played admirably. After sitting out the first few months of the season with a broken wrist, Udoh learned on the job in mid-season. A lot to ask for a rookie.
David Lee: C+
For $80 million, clearly Lee is seen by management as a building block for a championship. Together with Monta Ellis and Stephen Curry, it is clear that is what they looked at as a winning formula. It got them to 36 wins. To me, $80 million should help a team make a 16 team playoff structure out of only 30 teams. Lee did play well at times, and his numbers clearly were an upgrade at the power forward position.
Acie Law: C+
Law is an average point guard at best, but he played hard, fought for his minutes, and justified his playing time. He isn't the answer at point guard next year as Curry's backup but he had an admirable year in his second stint in Oakland.
Vladimir Radmanovic: C-
Not sure if anything was expected out of Radmanovic when he was thrown into the Stephen Jackson trade along with Raja Bell. Most likely he will not be brought back, and for how little help the team has on the bench, it is sad that they wouldn't want there most consistent bench player. That tells you a little something about how bad 'Bad Vlad' and his bench was.
Reggie Williams: C-
The fact that one of the worst teams in basektball has one of the top 3 point shooters in basketball in Williams and might not bring him back for another year should say something about the rest of his game. His inability to develop anything beyond an outside shot is why he is deserving of his grade.
Lou Amundson: D+
When healthy, he showed what he can do in an NBA game, which is fight for rebounds, play some defense, hustle, and do a lot of the intangibles that is necessary from a bench player. His time in a suit this year is as much a reason for the grade as his limited potential to do any more than what he did this season.
Jeremy Lin: D+
Lin showed flashes of toughness, defense, and some point guard ability. He clearly was successful in the D-league which does say something about his ability to contribute in the NBA. Will he be enough to backup Stephen Curry in 2011-12? I don't think he has shown enough to warrant that yet.
Al Thornton: D+
Thornton has never lived up to his potential and he was given a chance to be a backup small forward on a team desperate for offense off the bench. Thornton has Corey Maggette like potential off the bench, but he hasn't figured out how to do that night in and night out. Until he does, he won't be worthy of a rotation spot on the Warriors.
Jeff Adrien: D+
Good is he was brought back this season after posting monster rebounding numbers in the D-League. Bad is he never played well enough to showcase those skills in the Warriors rotation which is in desperate need of rebounding.
Andris Biedrins: F
Biedrins has now become a laughinstock around the league with his gutless play and one of the most overpaid players in the game. He refuses to adjust at the charity stripe, and his shot is awful. Don Nelson commented during the season that one of the reasons they let him go was by suggesting that Biedrins work with Rick Barry on underhand free throws. What a brilliant idea, from one of the best offensive minds in the game and the greatest scorer in Warriors history. No matter what Biedrins does next year, his 2010-11 will go down as one of the most pitiful by a Warrior in a long time. And that is saying something.
Charlie Bell: F
It is sad that a player like Bell can steal money from an organization. Absolute waste of space. Must be released this off-season, or moved to a team desperate for expiring contracts.
-----------------------------
Marcus Thompson III's take on the Warriors: Here is the link
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Friday, April 15, 2011
Saltzman Says...I am a bad political activist
On a day when most of America is either getting good news about their tax refund, or terrible news about what they owe the government, two very important stances are being taken. In reality, most people don't know about their refund because they are making a mad dash to get it done by Monday at midnight. However, for those of us who try to get our W-2's in early, we could also fight for some very important causes.
1. Day of Silence - On the National Day of Silence hundreds of thousands of students nationwide take a vow of silence to bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in their schools.
2. Don't Buy Gas - “In April 1997, there was a 'gas out' conducted nationwide in protest of gas prices. Gasoline prices dropped 30 cents a gallon overnight. On April 15, 2011, all drivers are to not go to a gas station in protest of high gas prices.
Well, today I got gas because I was running low and I forgot about the protest today. I also have been online and talked at a Board Meeting and in my classes. I hope bringing awareness on my blog can make up for my complete lack of activism today. Sorry to everyone who continues to fight for a better, safer world.
1. Day of Silence - On the National Day of Silence hundreds of thousands of students nationwide take a vow of silence to bring attention to anti-LGBT name-calling, bullying and harassment in their schools.
2. Don't Buy Gas - “In April 1997, there was a 'gas out' conducted nationwide in protest of gas prices. Gasoline prices dropped 30 cents a gallon overnight. On April 15, 2011, all drivers are to not go to a gas station in protest of high gas prices.
Well, today I got gas because I was running low and I forgot about the protest today. I also have been online and talked at a Board Meeting and in my classes. I hope bringing awareness on my blog can make up for my complete lack of activism today. Sorry to everyone who continues to fight for a better, safer world.
Thursday, April 14, 2011
Saltzman Says..Here is the first episode of "The Franchise"
HERE is the link to the first episode of "The Franchise," the new documentary about the 2011 San Francisco Giants on Showtime
Here is the link on Twitter - 'The Franchise' http://t.co/QjesgKT
Some of the highlights:
1. Brian Wilson is phenomenal: "You're Welcome"
2. See Brandon Belt's emotional meeting with Bruce Bochy
3. Get to meet Marc Kroon (Great Story)
4. Freddy Sanchez and his High School yearbook photo
5. Bruce Bochy catching Sharks
Wednesday, April 13, 2011
Saltzman Says...Giants on pace for 94 wins
2011 Season: 6-6
2010 Season vs same opponents: 4-8
2011 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 1-3 in first four
2010 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 2-2 in first four
2011 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 1-1
2010 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 0-2
2011 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
2010 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
NEXT GAMES:
Los Angeles Dodgers at home:
2011: 2-1
2010: 0-3
Arizona on the road:
2011: TBD
2010: 1-2
Colorado on the road:
2011: TBD
2010: 1-2
2010 Season vs same opponents: 4-8
2011 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 1-3 in first four
2010 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 2-2 in first four
2011 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 1-1
2010 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 0-2
2011 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
2010 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
NEXT GAMES:
Los Angeles Dodgers at home:
2011: 2-1
2010: 0-3
Arizona on the road:
2011: TBD
2010: 1-2
Colorado on the road:
2011: TBD
2010: 1-2
Saltzman Says...A's are set for the next fire sale
The Oakland A's have signed their top two pitchers to small market friendly extensions.
This headline reminds me of the other times the A's did the exact same thing. Oakland has always tried to put a competitive team on the field. Whether it was the big three of Mark Mulder, Tim Hudson and Barry Zito, or the big bats of Jason Giambi and Miguel Tejada, the A's have always had talent. When the A's traded Mark Mulder to the Cardinals for Dan Haren and Daric Barton, it looked like the A's were going back to the drawing board. But as Haren developed into an ace, it was clear the A's had something. That was until the A's traded Dan Haren to the Diamondbacks. Now, Billy Beane did receive a mint for Haren that included Carlos Gonzalez and Brett Anderson. However, the same GM that was re-tooling gave up Carlos Gonzalez for a rental in Matt Holliday. Confused yet? I have always been amazed at the talent the A's have had in their system and on the field and how inconsistent Billy Beane has been forced to be. One year they are filling their roster with vets to surround the young players, and the next they are letting the young players survive on the big stage alone.
Best Case Scenario: With Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson signed for the next 4 years, Gio Gonzalez and Dallas Braden take less money to stay as well. That foursome rivals the Red Sox and Rays for American league dominance for the next four years, and free agents are willing to take less money to join the staff in Oakland.
Worst Case Scenario: In two years, after Dallas Braden is released because he is going to make too much in arbitration, the A's trade both Brett Anderson and Gio Gonzalez and get young prospects in return. Trevor Cahill is left to fend by himself, just like Dan Haren, and after a few more lonely trips to the All-Star game, is traded to a big market team for 5-6 top prospects.
Why is the city of Oakland currently stuck with 3 sports franchises that don't know how to build a champion anymore. I was born in 1980, so I missed the glory years of the 1970's when all three teams were champions.
This headline reminds me of the other times the A's did the exact same thing. Oakland has always tried to put a competitive team on the field. Whether it was the big three of Mark Mulder, Tim Hudson and Barry Zito, or the big bats of Jason Giambi and Miguel Tejada, the A's have always had talent. When the A's traded Mark Mulder to the Cardinals for Dan Haren and Daric Barton, it looked like the A's were going back to the drawing board. But as Haren developed into an ace, it was clear the A's had something. That was until the A's traded Dan Haren to the Diamondbacks. Now, Billy Beane did receive a mint for Haren that included Carlos Gonzalez and Brett Anderson. However, the same GM that was re-tooling gave up Carlos Gonzalez for a rental in Matt Holliday. Confused yet? I have always been amazed at the talent the A's have had in their system and on the field and how inconsistent Billy Beane has been forced to be. One year they are filling their roster with vets to surround the young players, and the next they are letting the young players survive on the big stage alone.
 |
| Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson are the future for the A's, but for how long? |
Best Case Scenario: With Trevor Cahill and Brett Anderson signed for the next 4 years, Gio Gonzalez and Dallas Braden take less money to stay as well. That foursome rivals the Red Sox and Rays for American league dominance for the next four years, and free agents are willing to take less money to join the staff in Oakland.
Worst Case Scenario: In two years, after Dallas Braden is released because he is going to make too much in arbitration, the A's trade both Brett Anderson and Gio Gonzalez and get young prospects in return. Trevor Cahill is left to fend by himself, just like Dan Haren, and after a few more lonely trips to the All-Star game, is traded to a big market team for 5-6 top prospects.
Why is the city of Oakland currently stuck with 3 sports franchises that don't know how to build a champion anymore. I was born in 1980, so I missed the glory years of the 1970's when all three teams were champions.
Monday, April 11, 2011
Saltzman Says...Giants on pace for 92 wins
2011 Season: 4-5
2010 Season vs same opponents: 4-5
2011 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 1-3 in first four
2010 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 2-2 in first four
2011 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 1-1
2010 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 0-2
2011 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
2010 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
NEXT GAMES:
Los Angeles Dodgers at home:
2010: 0-3
2011: TBD
Arizona on the road:
2010: 1-2
2011: TBD
Colorado on the road:
2010: 1-2
2011: TBD
2010 Season vs same opponents: 4-5
2011 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 1-3 in first four
2010 vs Los Angeles Dodgers on the road: 2-2 in first four
2011 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 1-1
2010 vs San Diego Padres on the road: 0-2
2011 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
2010 vs St. Louis Cardinals at home: 2-1
NEXT GAMES:
Los Angeles Dodgers at home:
2010: 0-3
2011: TBD
Arizona on the road:
2010: 1-2
2011: TBD
Colorado on the road:
2010: 1-2
2011: TBD
 |
| From Left to Right: Brian Sabean, Bill Neukom, and Bruce Bochy |
Sunday, April 10, 2011
Saltzman Says...Ring Ceremony takes the cake
 |
| Sergio Romo shows off the 2010 Championship ring |
The very first ring went to longtime equipment manager Mike Murphy, who has been with the club since starting as a bat boy in '58. Sabean was next, followed by Bochy.
''This is one you'll want to wear,'' Bochy said. ''I'll wear it all the time. I don't wear jewelry so to speak, but I'll wear this with a lot of pride.''
The rings are primarily white gold. The top features the team's ''SF'' logo set with round diamonds encircled by a bezel of yellow gold flanked by two round diamonds. One side of the ring says 2010 with a yellow gold tower of the iconic Golden Gate Bridge. The other side features the recipient's name in a ribbon over the World Series trophy.
Within the top of the trophy is one mandarin orange spessartite garnet stone representing San Francisco's title with five diamonds below the trophy's base for the five Giants titles won in New York.
Friday, April 8, 2011
Saltzman Says...2-4 Start is a good thing
The Giants are starting this year very similar to last year. If you remember last year, the Giants started hot, going 4-0, sweeping the Houston Astros and winning the opener against the Atlanta Braves in 13 innings. Nobody thought the Giants were going 162-0, yet it sure was good to see the Giants beat a less superior team in Houston and beat a better team at the time in Atlanta. Then after winning both the Braves and Pittsburgh Pirates series, the Giants went South. Both literally and figuretively. The Giants went down to Los Angeles and San Diego, and came away with one win. Only one. The Giants lost two out of three to the Dodgers and then got swept by the Padres.
Entering 2011 with a World Championship patch on their right sleeve certainly gave people the impression this would be an even better start to the year. However, instead of playing teams like Houston and Pitssburgh, the Giants started with the two nemesis teams from down south. What resulted was a 2-4 start to the year, followed by an Opening day today against a long time central power in St. Louis. The Cardinals come in struggling, but have never been looked at as an easy win.
However, I look at the start of the year as an improvement on last year as well as a sign of better things to come.
1. Buster Posey, Madison Bumgarner, and Brandon Belt were in the minors last year. These three potential phenoms were all in the minor league system to start 2010, and in Belt's case, was in San Jose or Single-A.
2. Freddy Sanchez, Miguel Tejada, Pat Burrell, Andres Torres and Cody Ross. None of these players were starting or with the team on opening day last year, and with the excpetion of Ross who is on the DL, all are here now.
3. The pitching is better. Tim Lincecum, Jonathan Sanchez, Matt Cain, Barry Zito and Madison Bumgarner have a collective ERA under 3.00 to start the year. These five will carry the team throghout the year.
4. The record is better. Even though the Giants started 7-2 last year, they started 1-5 against the Dodgers and Padres. This year, they started 2-4. Not much of a jump, but improving from a 92 win season only takes 8 extra wins to get to 100. The Giants technically are on pace for 93 wins if they can repeat last year's performance against the other teams in the league.
Entering 2011 with a World Championship patch on their right sleeve certainly gave people the impression this would be an even better start to the year. However, instead of playing teams like Houston and Pitssburgh, the Giants started with the two nemesis teams from down south. What resulted was a 2-4 start to the year, followed by an Opening day today against a long time central power in St. Louis. The Cardinals come in struggling, but have never been looked at as an easy win.
However, I look at the start of the year as an improvement on last year as well as a sign of better things to come.
1. Buster Posey, Madison Bumgarner, and Brandon Belt were in the minors last year. These three potential phenoms were all in the minor league system to start 2010, and in Belt's case, was in San Jose or Single-A.
2. Freddy Sanchez, Miguel Tejada, Pat Burrell, Andres Torres and Cody Ross. None of these players were starting or with the team on opening day last year, and with the excpetion of Ross who is on the DL, all are here now.
3. The pitching is better. Tim Lincecum, Jonathan Sanchez, Matt Cain, Barry Zito and Madison Bumgarner have a collective ERA under 3.00 to start the year. These five will carry the team throghout the year.
4. The record is better. Even though the Giants started 7-2 last year, they started 1-5 against the Dodgers and Padres. This year, they started 2-4. Not much of a jump, but improving from a 92 win season only takes 8 extra wins to get to 100. The Giants technically are on pace for 93 wins if they can repeat last year's performance against the other teams in the league.
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| The Freak, the Kid, and the Rock will help lead the Giants in 2011 |
Wednesday, April 6, 2011
Saltzman Says...The Beard Is Back
Brian Wilson is back. The Giants announced today that Wilson is off of the disabled list. Santiago Casilla was put on the 15 day DL to make room on the 25 roster. Also in the news, Travis Ishikawa was outrighted to Triple-A Fresno. This is good news for Fresno to allow Brett Pill to DH and Ishikawa to play 1st. But the big news is Wilson. The Beard is coming back from a short Spring where he only had five appearances. Will he be able to jump in right away and start saving games? Never doubt the beard.
Monday, April 4, 2011
Saltzman Says...How you can help Bryan Stow
For more information on how you can help Bryan Stow and his family, check out support4stow.blogspot.com
Bryan Stow is in an induced coma after being beaten for being a Giants fan following an Opening Day loss to the Dodgers.
Donations to offset his medical costs can go to Commonwealth Central Credit Union, account No. 118881, P.O. Box 641690, San Jose CA 95164-1690
Bryan Stow is in an induced coma after being beaten for being a Giants fan following an Opening Day loss to the Dodgers.
Donations to offset his medical costs can go to Commonwealth Central Credit Union, account No. 118881, P.O. Box 641690, San Jose CA 95164-1690
Here is a sketch of the thugs who brutely and senslessly beat Bryan Stow
Saltzman Says...Neukom and McCourt issue joint statement
"This attack is unconscionable behavior that will not be tolerated in either of our ballparks or in either of our cities," the statement read. "Once apprehended, the attackers will be prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law. Public safety is the top priority for all of us and even one act of random violence is unacceptable.
"Baseball is a family sport that has unified our country after times of crisis and tragedy. This senseless act of violence has no place in our society and certainly not in our national pastime. The Giants-Dodgers rivalry is one of the most storied in all of sports, dating back to when the teams played across town in New York City before their moves to California. This is a great rivalry between teams competing on the field of play. That's where it must stay."
"Baseball is a family sport that has unified our country after times of crisis and tragedy. This senseless act of violence has no place in our society and certainly not in our national pastime. The Giants-Dodgers rivalry is one of the most storied in all of sports, dating back to when the teams played across town in New York City before their moves to California. This is a great rivalry between teams competing on the field of play. That's where it must stay."
Saltzman Says...Pula and Scott sign letter of intent
Two former San Jose High School Standouts sign
By Michael Saltzman
Bay Area Faces in the Crowd see two former Cougars sign with Midwest Colleges
Emmanuel Scott and Nick Pula signed letter of intent to finish their college careers in the Midwest. Scott has signed with Fort Hays State and Pula signed with Missouri Valley State. Both will be getting a full scholarship and be able to continue their football careers.
"...got done signing my free education to Fort Hays State in Kansas. I am officially a FHSU Tiger. Got big plans for the future and it's all in my hands." said Scott via Facebook.
By Michael Saltzman
Bay Area Faces in the Crowd see two former Cougars sign with Midwest Colleges
Emmanuel Scott and Nick Pula signed letter of intent to finish their college careers in the Midwest. Scott has signed with Fort Hays State and Pula signed with Missouri Valley State. Both will be getting a full scholarship and be able to continue their football careers.
"...got done signing my free education to Fort Hays State in Kansas. I am officially a FHSU Tiger. Got big plans for the future and it's all in my hands." said Scott via Facebook.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Saltzman Says...Meet the 2011 Fresno Grizzlies
Meet Your 2011 Fresno Grizzlies:
C Jackson Williams and Chris Stewart will platoon along with Dashenko Ricardo from the Rule 5 draft
1B Brett Pill will be the everyday 1st baseman
2B Emmanuel Burriss will be the everyday 2nd baseman
SS Brandon Crawford should start in AAA, but Ryan Rohlinger might get some AB's at Short in case of a call-up to the Big Leagues
3B Conor Gillespie should get some start, but Ryan Rohlinger will get a lot of AB's here too, especially if Pablo Sandoval struggles or gets hurt.
LF Thomas Neal will be the everyday Left Fielder
CF Darren Ford will be the everyday Center Fielder
RF Ben Copeland and Tyler Graham should platoon in Right Field
SP Josh Banks and Matt Yorkin should lead a promising staff, but the talent is in the bullpen.
RP Marc Kroon, Waldis Joaquin, Henry Sosa and Alex Hinshaw all have Major League Experience, and Steve Edlefson was added to the 40 man this off-season.
To see the full roster, CLICK HERE
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| Marc Kroon, right, will close games for Fresno |
Friday, April 1, 2011
Saltzman Says..."The Giants Way" is fan friendly
The Giants Way is great for the short term and costly for the long term. However, as long as the Giants remain financially responsible, they can avoid the pitfalls of this "Way."
Reason #1: Not waiting to start a young player's clock. Tim Lincecum, Buster Posey and now Brandon Belt. Three studs, who proved in the minor leagues that the only challenge they might face in baseball is at the Major League level. Lincecum received "Super 2" status by being called up May 9, 2007, instead of being called up after June 1. Same with Buster Posey, who was called up May 29th, 2010. Their respective time served clocks started a year early and therefore are going to be much more costly in the future. Other teams, especially small market teams, have made it clear to their fan base that it doesn't make financial sense to bring up a young player early. The Giants are proving that wins are more critical than salaries.
Reason #2: Free Agent signing massacres have stopped. Barry Zito and Aaron Rowand are still here, but there was Edgar Renteria, Edgardo Alfonso, Ray Durham, and Armando Benitez before them. Big, long expensive deals can kill a franchise. The Giants realize that Zito and Rowand have made it more expensive and more difficult to keep their own talent. However, the Giants have decided that re-signing their own will happen no matter what the payroll restrictions have been in the past. Fortunately, that won't happen at any cost. They had budgeted $6 million a year for a shortstop, and when Juan Uribe took more money to sign with the Dodgers, the Giants stood firm on their 3 year offer, instead of adding a year, or adding extra millions. Bringing in Miguel Tejada proved two things. His one year deal gives them flexibility at SS that Uribe's contract would not have. The Giants know they need to look long term for a SS this coming off-season.
Reason #3: No big extension yet for Cody Ross, Jonathan Sanchez, or Pablo Sandoval. The Giants will spend on guys who have proven themselves in a Giants uniform, but they will not give extensions to everyone. It was clear when they gave extensions to Matt Cain, Jeremy Affeldt and Brian Wilson before the 2010 season. It was clear when they gave Aubrey Huff a two year deal with an option year this off-season. It was also clear when they gave Freddy Sanchez an extension yesterday for an additional year. The Giants have shown they are willing to commit to their own. However, Ross, Sanchez and Sandoval have shown that because of a small sample size in Ross' case, and inconsistency on Sanchez and Sadoval's part, there is no need to rush deals with those three. However, if they prove they can be long term answers in 2011, they will be given an opportunity to stay with this nucleus.
Reason #4: Buster Posey, Madison Bumgarner, and Brandon Belt aren't going anywhere. If Lincecum, Cain, Wilson, etc... has shown anything is that the Giants will not let a great Giant test the free agent waters. Just as the big waste that is the $30+ million being made by Rowand and Zito finally come to an end, the Giants will be able to use that money to give extensions to their next big three.
Reason #1: Not waiting to start a young player's clock. Tim Lincecum, Buster Posey and now Brandon Belt. Three studs, who proved in the minor leagues that the only challenge they might face in baseball is at the Major League level. Lincecum received "Super 2" status by being called up May 9, 2007, instead of being called up after June 1. Same with Buster Posey, who was called up May 29th, 2010. Their respective time served clocks started a year early and therefore are going to be much more costly in the future. Other teams, especially small market teams, have made it clear to their fan base that it doesn't make financial sense to bring up a young player early. The Giants are proving that wins are more critical than salaries.
Reason #2: Free Agent signing massacres have stopped. Barry Zito and Aaron Rowand are still here, but there was Edgar Renteria, Edgardo Alfonso, Ray Durham, and Armando Benitez before them. Big, long expensive deals can kill a franchise. The Giants realize that Zito and Rowand have made it more expensive and more difficult to keep their own talent. However, the Giants have decided that re-signing their own will happen no matter what the payroll restrictions have been in the past. Fortunately, that won't happen at any cost. They had budgeted $6 million a year for a shortstop, and when Juan Uribe took more money to sign with the Dodgers, the Giants stood firm on their 3 year offer, instead of adding a year, or adding extra millions. Bringing in Miguel Tejada proved two things. His one year deal gives them flexibility at SS that Uribe's contract would not have. The Giants know they need to look long term for a SS this coming off-season.
Reason #3: No big extension yet for Cody Ross, Jonathan Sanchez, or Pablo Sandoval. The Giants will spend on guys who have proven themselves in a Giants uniform, but they will not give extensions to everyone. It was clear when they gave extensions to Matt Cain, Jeremy Affeldt and Brian Wilson before the 2010 season. It was clear when they gave Aubrey Huff a two year deal with an option year this off-season. It was also clear when they gave Freddy Sanchez an extension yesterday for an additional year. The Giants have shown they are willing to commit to their own. However, Ross, Sanchez and Sandoval have shown that because of a small sample size in Ross' case, and inconsistency on Sanchez and Sadoval's part, there is no need to rush deals with those three. However, if they prove they can be long term answers in 2011, they will be given an opportunity to stay with this nucleus.
Reason #4: Buster Posey, Madison Bumgarner, and Brandon Belt aren't going anywhere. If Lincecum, Cain, Wilson, etc... has shown anything is that the Giants will not let a great Giant test the free agent waters. Just as the big waste that is the $30+ million being made by Rowand and Zito finally come to an end, the Giants will be able to use that money to give extensions to their next big three.
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| Lincecum and Posey aren't going anywhere |
Saltzman Says...One of the Good Guys Retires
Randy Winn has called it a career
In five years, he won't be entering the Hall of Fame. They won't be building a statue for him in Seattle or San Francisco or New York. He wasn't memorable the way that lesser players such as Brian Johnson or Solomon Torres are for better or for worse. What Winn was represents what is good about baseball. A Bay Area Native, who played baseball and basketball at Santa Clara, was traded to San Francisco and during his stint with the Giants, was everything they needed him to be. He was dependable, durable, and versatile. He hit nearly every spot in the order from 1st through 8th. He drove in runs when needed, and set the table for bigger bats when asked. He even dropped to 8th at times to allow younger bats to get a chance to shine. He was the ultimate team guy. He will get his plaque at AT&T soon, the same way that former teammates like Rich Aurilia, Robb Nen and Kirk Rueter have. Giants fans will always cheer his name whenever he is introduced at the park, and he will hopefully join the Giants again in the same way that J.T. Snow, Shawon Dunston, Will Clark, and so many other former Giants have.
In five years, he won't be entering the Hall of Fame. They won't be building a statue for him in Seattle or San Francisco or New York. He wasn't memorable the way that lesser players such as Brian Johnson or Solomon Torres are for better or for worse. What Winn was represents what is good about baseball. A Bay Area Native, who played baseball and basketball at Santa Clara, was traded to San Francisco and during his stint with the Giants, was everything they needed him to be. He was dependable, durable, and versatile. He hit nearly every spot in the order from 1st through 8th. He drove in runs when needed, and set the table for bigger bats when asked. He even dropped to 8th at times to allow younger bats to get a chance to shine. He was the ultimate team guy. He will get his plaque at AT&T soon, the same way that former teammates like Rich Aurilia, Robb Nen and Kirk Rueter have. Giants fans will always cheer his name whenever he is introduced at the park, and he will hopefully join the Giants again in the same way that J.T. Snow, Shawon Dunston, Will Clark, and so many other former Giants have.
Saltzman Says...Dodgers fans hit new low
I love my wife. I love my family. I love each and every Dodger fan that is now related to me. They certainly represent everything that is good about a baseball fan. That being said, I have always generically despised Dodger fans. Now specifically, I despise these three dodger fans. Nothing is more pitiful or cowardly than to jump unsuspecting, innocent victims. One Giants fan is in critical condition. Incredible. When people ask me what it's like for my wife and I to go to a Giants-Dodgers game, this is why I tell him we have never been to one together. Not worth dealing with the lowest common denominator.
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| A beautiful park, the voice of Vin Scully, but a cowardly parking lot |
Saltzman Says...Buster Posey sent down after error
Breaking News: Buster Posey Sent Down.
Bruce Bochy was quoted after the game as saying
"I don't want them...to make a mistake." said Bochy
According to unnamed sources, Bochy was reportedly furious after a game changing error by Buster Posey and said he can't have a catcher who makes mental errors "that horrible." The former backstop now manager said Chris Stewart's strong spring was enough to convince him that if Posey had a sophomore slump, they "wouldn't hesitate to make a move." For more on this story, click here.
Buster Posey's stats for the year are a .250 batting average, 0 home runs, 0 extra base hits, and twice as many strikeouts as hits. "If that isn't a sophomore slump, I haven't seen one." said a high ranking source in the Giants organization who asked to renamed anonymous.
Bruce Bochy was quoted after the game as saying
"I don't want them...to make a mistake." said Bochy
According to unnamed sources, Bochy was reportedly furious after a game changing error by Buster Posey and said he can't have a catcher who makes mental errors "that horrible." The former backstop now manager said Chris Stewart's strong spring was enough to convince him that if Posey had a sophomore slump, they "wouldn't hesitate to make a move." For more on this story, click here.
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| Posey packed his bags for Fresno last night after the game. |
Buster Posey's stats for the year are a .250 batting average, 0 home runs, 0 extra base hits, and twice as many strikeouts as hits. "If that isn't a sophomore slump, I haven't seen one." said a high ranking source in the Giants organization who asked to renamed anonymous.
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