Japan 2009 World Baseball Classic Champs!!! March 24, 2009

Team Japan as 2009 World Baseball Classic Champions

Stars perform when they have to. That was Ichiro Suzuki in the 10th inning of the 2009 World Baseball Classic final. A slumpy Suzuki, Ichiro underperformed throughout the entire competition. But when his team needed him he came through by driving in the winning run, in a close 10 inning epic with 2008 Olympic champions, South Korea.

If I were a betting man I would have put my money on Japan. I knew they would pull it out. I think the consistent team work and team support allowed the Japanese to pull out some tough victories. The talent was always there, it was just a matter of making it all click just right.

Congratulations!

Peace

No ‘I’ in Team, or Japan March 23, 2009

I love my home nation, the United States of America. Despite the economic downturn, and being the center of international criticism, I defend the merits of my country.

Mike Blake of Reuters Captures Japan's Greatest Strength - The Team

That said, I am cheering for Japan to win the World Baseball Classic. Why this flinching patriotism? Am a traitor to the cause? Quite the contrary.

You see, if U.S. baseball wasn’t so tarnished by drugs, dishonesty, downright selfishness I would be singing a much different tune. Japanese baseball isn’t weighted down by these things. The players are focused on the team, and play with a spirit that has long been lost in U.S. baseball. In the States big contracts have enhanced bad behavior, and do little to curb out-of-control egos.

I hope that one day U.S. baseball gets back to the level it once was. In the meantime I will cheer on my second home, and it’s native sons – Nippon Ichibon!!!!

The Newest Supermodel -Yokozuna Asashoryu March 12, 2009

In prime Asashoryu fashion, he is in the limelight while his fellow mates are hard at work getting ready for the 2009 Spring Basho held in Osaka beginning Sunday, March 15th and ending Sunday, March 29th. This time though the bad boy of the Sumo world is showing his hip side.

Appearing at the Shibuya Girls Collection fashion show in Tokyo, Asashoryu brought his grand style to the Yoyogi National Gymnasium and it’s 20,000 strong.

Asashoryu waving to fashion crowd

As the title of this event suggests, the crowd was made up of 20,000 teenage girls, mostly. I don’t think these same people will be the majority of the audience who will attend the Spring Grand Tournament in Osaka. That said, from the pictures provided by Kyodo Photo (above) and Chris Jue (below) you’d think the exciting but controversial yokozuna is trying to change the face of Sumo, instead of promoting his latest sponsor, FANTA (he’s wearing a FANTA shirt, and recently appeared in a TV commercial for them).

According to Kyodo News via The Japan Times Online, the big guy sounded a bit nervous, but seemed to enjoy the whole event, “I felt a kind of tension that was new to me….The shrill voices were also impressive.”

I bet he worked on his turn alot.

I will hold my criticism towards the big guy because when it comes to success this guys record stands on its own. He’s grand champion, and has the hardware to prove it. Regardless of what people might say about him his showcase of Emperor Cups is one not to be rivaled, even by current co-Yokozuna Hakuho (they are both Mongolian by the way). Frankly speaking, I love Asashoryu, whose name means “Morning Blue Dragon” (what a badass name) because of this aggressiveness and individuality (I’m a U.S. American from the New York City area – go figure). I understand how some see his actions as disrespectful to the centuries old traditions that make Sumo what it is. And I don’t approve of his rumored womanizing and his bad attitude ego trippin’. I’m not going to hang out with him over a bowl of chunko nabe. All that said, I will watch him stuff the rikishi down the throat of another opponent, and cheer him on.

Somehow, and there is great speculation that his matches are sometimes fixed, he manages to win. I for one think he beats people because he’s better. His technique is very good. His speed and strength compliment each other very well. And he believes in himself and his ability to beat anyone (sometimes to a fault some would say, but like most elite athletes).

But before all the talk of who will be hoisting the Spring Basho’s Emperors Cup, I guess Asa has a few other things to attend to…I wonder if he listened to Right Said Fred before his catwalk debut?

Peace

Equal Pay for Equal Play February 15, 2009

If anyone out there wants to get into a “lively discussion” here’s one – equal pay for women tennis players, and female athletes in general. Check out this article on CNN.com

I come down on the side of the argument that if Venus and Serena and Billie Jean and whomever want equal cash they should play 3 out 5 sets. Why they don’t is a puzzle to me. If Rafa can play almost 9 hours of tennis in a 36 hour span to win a hunk of metal and some money, why can’t Serena do the same? Dare I say, “She just isn’t fit enough, and womens’ tennis just isn’t good enough.” I hate to think that, but I’m left with very little else.

Danica Patrick drives an Indy Car with a bunch of guys, but she doesn’t ask to drive less because she’s a woman. Say whatever you want about her, and there’s a lot to say, but she drives the same distance as the men, and when she wins she collects the same amount of money. Simple – equal pay for equal work.

A few years back Annika Sorenstam played with her male counterparts, and was emotionally, physically and mentally spent afterwards. At the time she was the best in the world. Through experience she saw the difference between the mens’ game and the womens’ game.

A slap-in-the-face-point to me is that the women aren’t making peanuts. Serena and Venus are financially wealthy and set for life. They would have to be irresponsible and reckless to become poor (it could happen, but I doubt it). What are they complaining about? To my ears this is what I’m hearing, “We’re treated unfairly because we are women. I know we don’t play as much, but that isn’t the point. We play the game. Who cares how much or how well we play. We play, we win, and we put people in the seats. We should get paid for that.” I think they have a group of Wall Street financial “wizards” for PR managers. They’re being told they can get more for less, or even nothing (Probably those same financiers that caused this global recession).

What happened to the saying, “Equal pay for equal work?” Female tennis players need to remember that, and stop being so selfish.

Peace

A Real Class Act January 13, 2009

The U.S. American football community got some expected, but still unwanted news – Tony Dungy, head coach of the Indianapolis Colts is retiring….(for now). Let’s hope one day he changes his mind because he is one coach all teams should have the pleasure of experiencing. One of the best coaches in the history of the game. I just had fun watching him. Dignity and professionalism with a raging passion for the game made Tony Dungy a role model for younger coaches, and veteran ones.

With his family being his most important priority, he has chosen to spend more time with them instead of on the football field. How can you blame him. A few years ago his son committed suicide (how he carried on after that was a test of will and faith). Now with his other son having broken his leg, it is time to step away from the game, and tend to his family. The signs were clear.



Not a man who does it for the glory Dungy recognizes that one Super Bowl ring is all anyone really needs. With coaching records, and accolades from goal post to goal post he has it all. What more is there to prove….Nothing!

Here’s to you Mr. Dungy. A real class act! A true role model!

Check out this NFL video giving a little roundout of Dungy’s career. Just click.

Peace

Forget the Favre Fantasy – PRIDE His Deadly Sin August 3, 2008

For the latest on this developing story you can check ESPN news at this story headline – “NFL grants Favre reinstatement; sources say QB job is open.” Now for my commentary.

If this isn’t the most ridiculous thing. I seem to remember a weeping Brett Favre talking about how he was done and that he had thrown his last ball. That last ball though was an interception. Go figure, as he holds the record for most interceptions ever in an NFL career (he also holds every other major passing record, PLUS has a Super Bowl ring, AND a pair of MVPs). This is rather pathetic I think. The Green Bay Packers should have swept Brett aside and told him, “Listen, stop acting like a big baby and go home. Your time in the sandbox is over. We’ve committed to this new guy and that’s it. If you want to be a consultant on building sandcastles then we’ll give you a call, but your time in the sandbox is over little Brett.”

One of the great ESPN Sports Reporters asked the question, “Who is Aaron Rodgers, and what has he done in the NFL to deserve to start over Brett Favre?” Funny, I see it the opposite – “Who is Brett Favre to take away the opportunity of someone else who is trying to build a career?” I hope Rodgers kicks Brett’s ass in training camp and on the field because this is a clear example of why PRIDE is a deadly sin. Brett can’t swallow his and he’s going to choke on it one day. What is the alternative in this situation – Brett walks away with honor. He is healthy. He can spend time with his family, who he should be thanking more for standing by him all these years while he put them through the ringers.

In a conversation with a friend I posed the question/statement – “Would you rather have Dan Marino (who has never won a Super Bowl), or Brett Favre leading your team?” My friend without hesitation said Dan Marino. I would to. Marino entered, played, and exited the game with class. Favre broke his records, but he will never be to the game what Marino was. This attempt at taking the spotlight is ridiculous and childish, and shows Brett’s true colors.

Some will say, “He loves the game too much,” and “You’ll never understand what it’s like until you’re on that stage.” They’re right, and guess what…I don’t ever want to know, if this is what I would become. Money and fame can’t be the reasons Favre is going back. He must have enough of both. He’s going back because of PRIDE, and as I said before this is why PRIDE is a deadly sin. Have fun Brett.

Peace

The Legend of Tiger June 17, 2008

There is no doubt, as if there ever was, that we are watching the greatest golfer to ever play the game. I’m not diminishing Ben Hogan, Arnold Palmer, Jack Nicklaus, or the other greats who came before Tiger, but there is always that One who will eclipse the Lords of yesteryear. Tiger is that One. His victory at this year’s U.S. Open was by far the best in modern tournament history, and maybe ever. I’m not making that statement. I’m just repeating what many an expert golf analyst have already said. He’s the best.

At 32, he has 14 majors, 65 tour wins, more money than some countries, and a secure place in golf history. What made his victory at Torrey Pines all the more dramatic, was he wasn’t 100%. His knee was really not helping him. Post surgery/rehab soreness saw Tiger limping around the fairways and greens. He had blown hole after blown hole. Bad starts and stormy bunkers tried encroach on this psyche. Well, with no luck as he found a way to win.

He closed out this event in sudden death fashion against a formidable opponent who at anytime could have taken it, but didn’t. And in true Tiger fashion he was humble and gracious in his moment. He gave kudos to The Rocc, who seemed to come out of nowhere but Tiger thought differently. Like a true warrior he never underestimated his competition. He knew who was out there, and he knew the capabilities of everyone playing. Sometimes I think that is what makes him so dangerous. He knows that these guys can win at any time, so he always has to play with his best, or whatever his best will give him on that day.

So the conversation will now escalate to WHETHER OR NOT Tiger will reach the hallowed ground 18 majors. As far as I’m concerned the conversation should be about WHEN will he reach 18, and how far out of reach will he place the record. Remember, Tiger still wants to do the true Grand Slam – all 4 majors in the same season, in a row. He can’t do that this year, but if he wins another major, or two this year, and then sweeps them all next year. You’re looking at probably 20 majors before the age of 34. Tiger will probably play another 10 years, and with his physical conditioning, no telling how long he will go for. The only stumbling block is his mental capacity and will to stay in the game, and win. Just remember, Jim Brown quit at the top of his game, and so did Barry Sanders, and they were shocks to a lot of people. Will Tiger follow suit? I sure hope not, and by all accounts it looks unlikely. So strap in and prepare yourself for more history making because every time Tiger walks the courses of a major, he’s taking one more step towards eternity.

Peace

Nadal Dominates Federer Towards French Open History June 8, 2008

If there was any doubt in this era of tennis that Rafael Nadal is the master of the clay courts, well cast that doubt aside and get with the program. This guy is it. 6-1, 6-3, 6-0 was the result against the No.1 in the world Roger Federer. A dominating performance that made me step back and rub my eyes. With the way Fed was playing I figured he would have at least won one set. That said, after seeing how Nadal dispatched with Novak Djokovic in straight sets of 6-1, I didn’t have much hope for Roger. I did though think he would win at least one small battle.

I’ve always had this strange love-hate liking with Fed. I love his tennis. Beautiful – effortless – grace under pressure – fully self-aware – he deserves his place in tennis history. But I hated the hype, as if he were more than human. I know his mechanical-robot like precision and skill in everything he does is just him. And I know he has personality, doesn’t everybody. But I just don’t like the hype. That said, Grand Slam titles are hard to argue with and he has quite a few. So, I fully respect and appreciate what I’m witnessing when I see him play. Recently though he has been looking very human on the court, which has made me grow a real soft spot for the Swissman (visiting his country probably has something to do with that as well – absolutely beautiful place, and the people are magnificent – do go if you get the chance). I do wish that he wins a French Open title to complete his Grand Slam collection. Pete Sampras never won one, and I always watched clinging to the TV for Pistol Pete to reign in that Grand Slam. I knew Pete was a lock for Wimbledon and the U.S., and the Australian would come in spurts, but the French title was the nerve-wrenching one. I hope it doesn’t go the same way for Fed.

That said, Nadal is “The King of Clay” and what we are witnessing is Bjorn Borg-esque, and Borg along with the rest of the tennis world knows it. So do we loft Nadal, at age 22, into the hallowed ranks? He certainly is making a case for it right now, but let’s wait to see how his whole game pans out because next up is the Mecca of the tennis world – Wimbledon. Don’t give in to the hype just yet. Nadal has challenged here, but Federer has had a lock on the green courts of the All England Club for quite some time. Can Nadal really push for it? Last year, he reduced his post-French Open matches in order to prepare for Wimbledon, and it served him well, as he challenged Federer in the final. Still though, the outcome was Federer eating his strawberries and cream from the Wimbledon Trophy.

Will that be the same outcome this year, as the mighty Swissman has yet to win a Grand Slam event. He lost the Australian Open to Djokovic, and now the French Open to Nadal. He has Wimbledon and the U.S. Open left. Let’s see where it all lands him. The one thing I say though is look for Nadal to raise the game one more level. If he can just stay healthy throughout the Summer, which is funny to say considering he is one of the most athletically fit people on the tour. But his style of play can put excess stress on his body, so hopefully that finally tuned physique is more finely tuned than last year so it can keep things in check, and push Nadal over the hump with regards to the other Grand Slams.

Peace

By The Hand Of King James May 13, 2008

Over the defensive player of the year, Kevin Garnett, goes Lebron James. I guess this is the good and bad of being a star big man. Garnett said it once himself, that to be a good big man you have to be willing to get dunked on. He got dunked on. Crazy though, when you see the video, watch how Lebron lands after the dunk…He could have easily torn an ACL or something like that. Just goes to show how strong and fit he really is. At 6 feet 9 inches and 260 pounds (that’s 205.74 centimeters and 117.93 kilograms for the metric folk out there) – He’s built for these moments. And now the feature presentation:

“LEBRON JAMES, WITH NO REGARD FOR HUMAN LIFE!!!” – LOVE IT!!

Good Defense Beats Good Offense May 11, 2008

This is the same story in most sports, a good defensive effort will usually beat an offense that has often seemed excellent. In the case of the Cleveland Cavaliers and the Boston Celtics it is front and center. Cleveland is so LeBron James centered that when he gets thrown off his game they don’t know what to do. Mind you Boston has been one of the best, if not the best defensive team all season. So the fact they are shutting down LeBron and the Cavs should be no surprise to anyone.

The top defensive player in the league is on Boston, Kevin Garnett, and with a couple of guys named Paul Pierce and Ray Allen in the lineup things become even more tough. I hate to only mention those guys because the fact is Boston’s team is defensive-minded, and the other players really put in a stunning effort every night. That said, those guys are the leaders and Boston’s hopes of a NBA Championship live and die with the Big 3.

People will of course question the trade that sent Larry Hughes and Donyell Marshall to other teams. Those guys were scoring forwards that added threats to Cleveland’s offense. They could also play defense. The Cavs basically need the other players on the team to step up, get open, and make some shots. The Cavs and LeBron need to learn from history. Play unselfishly and things come to you much easier. When Michael Jordan got some key role players who he could use, he was far more dangerous. Coupled with his defensive skills Jordan and the Bulls were…Champions (x6).

LeBron needs to go that way. He’ll score his points, but make sure he is giving his teammates opportunities to help Cleveland win.

All that said, I don’t see Cleveland getting past Boston. This was the best team in the league, and they are so dynamic. Also, they are on a quest for the title. Garnett is almost willing his way through opponents. Allen seems like he is playing with new legs. And Pierce is playing with less stress and added confidence. They are just so athletic, on top of experienced. This is one tough team to beat. The Celtics though do have to prove they can win on the road. They got roughed up by Atlanta when Atlanta was at home. If they give Cleveland the room to gain some confidence on home court it could spell doom for Boston because Cleveland can, and has, won on the road in tight spots. If the Celtics want to move on they are going to have to execute LeBron and his band of merry men at home, or at least win one in Cleveland so they can finish the job in The Garden.