Firedawg1982's Blog

Flying Under the Ray-Dar, like a Tampa Bay Ray

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 02:21:47 GMT

Another day passes, and still no big news about the Tampa Bay Rays. As a Ray's fan, it bothers me sometimes, how we never get substantial press coverage. What do we need to do, to get the respect, and attention we so rightfully deserve? We've answered our critics with victories, but our success falls on deaf ears.

Keep reading...

No large fan base, not a problem, we'll go from worst to first in one year and win our division. Still no respect, not a problem, lets win the national league pennant as well. Still no attention, how about making the Big Show, better known as the World Series. We'll even throw in "Rookie of the Year" a "Golden Glove" winner, "Manager of the Year" and the "Conigliaro Award", as well. Check out that resume, and get back with me!

I've listened to sports announcers, surfed the networks, read the blogs, and two months after the World Series, the Rays still aren''t getting their due. Granted, with all the money flying around this off season, what's to be expected? With big deals like the ones that the New York Yankees consistently make, who really cares what the poor pitiful Rays are doing? Besides, the Rays organization is careful with their money. They have the least money to spend. That's why every penny counts when going for the goods.

If you check out their pay scale, it's second lowest in the MLB. But they still manage to produce an All Star lineup. These guys play because they love the game of baseball. Sounds like "Old School" baseball huh? The kind of baseball that made it "America's Favorite Pastime". The way it used to be. Can't even the older loyal baseball fans hear my plea? Maybe I should launch into that old song entitled, "Baby Come Back". With the words growing louder when I sing, "Any kind of fool could see..."

Forget the lame attention that the Tampa Bay Rays aren't getting .They are still quietly, and methodically making huge off season acquisitions. As noted in "The Florida Writer" sister site blog at http://flawriter.com/blog , the Rays have recently acquired Matt Joyce from the Detroit Tigers for Edwin Jackson.

Joyce has the power that the Rays desperately needed. Last year during his rookie season, the 24-year-old, hit five home runs in his first 13 games. He was the 12th round pick in 2005 and finished with a .252 batting average, 12 home runs and 33 runs batted in during 92 games. Although his avg. could be higher, most and I said most, players increase the avg. with some hard work and more playing time. The Tampa native played 60 of his 85 games in left field for the Tigers. In the minors, he has played the majority of his time in right. That's where he will most likely play for the Rays.

Don't even think the Rays are finished either. They are still seeking a power DH in the lineup. It's been confirmed that meetings have also taken place with Milton Bradley, Jason Giambi, Bobby Abreu, Jerry Hermida, Rick Ankiel, Rick Nelson, Nelson Cruz and yes, even Ken Griffey Jr.

As noted on my site, I hope they go after Milton Bradley. Last year's stellar performance proves he's worth the bait. You can't go wrong with this kid. Anyways, how can you go wrong with a name like Milton Bradley. Doesn't' some toy company named Milton Bradley make the infamous, every kid's dream, tuff TONKA TRUCK? Case Closed!!!

Maybe, no attention is a good thing. I had a Fire Chief once, that always used to say, "Out of Sight, Out of Mind". Point being - you do what you gotta do, hang low, stay out of trouble, and eventually you will reach your full potential. And in the process, maybe earn the respect of you're peers.

I get it now! When you're always on top, and in the spotlight like the New York Yankees, it's easier to get picked off. Anyways, thanks, Chief.

So the Tampa Bay Organization is acting like a true Ray. Sneaking up on the prize, and then capturing it's prey. Ever so quietly making it's way through the sea of no respect. Going unnoticed, until the notice is served. Making it's way up from the cold depths of utter isolation to break the waves of the sunny surface in early spring. Just in time for opening day. When the spectators can awe in wonder and amazement at the future ruler of the MLB. We will get your respect, one way or another! In the meantime, we'll be flying under the radar, because that's how we do it in Tampa Bay.

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

1980's songs that NFL Teams, Players, and Fans listen to

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 02:17:07 GMT

Here are just a few 80's songs that NFL Teams, Players, or Fans might or might not listen to:

1) The Miami Dolphins - After going 1-15 last year, and taking so many shots from the media, now currently 9-5, and leading their division, the Phins might listen to "We're not gonna take it" by Twisted Sister

2) Matt Jones, Ex-Jacksonville Jaguar, and rehab candidate - "Flying High Again", by Ozzie Osborne.

3) After Matt was released by the Jaguars, I'm sure he must of listened to another Ozzie song called "Mama I'm Coming Home" .

4) Terrell Owens - after Tony Romo doesn't throw him enough passes - What About Me? - Moving Pictures

5) Tony Romo - Listens to "She's Got Looks That Kill", by Motley Crue, while thinking of Jessica Simpson.

6) Tony Romo also listens to Poison - "Every Rose Has It's Thorn", while thinking of T.O..

7) With all the drama in Dallas, This is for the entire Dallas Cowboy Organization - "One Thing Leads To Another" - The Fixx.

8 ) Every time DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart from Carolina touch the ball. "The Youth Gone Wild" - Skid Row.

9) Adrian Peterson - The League's Leading Rusher - "I Ran" - Flock of Seagulls.

10) Drew Brees - League's Leading Passer - "In the Air Tonight" - Phil Collins.

11) Andre Johnson - League's Leading Receiver - "You Dropped a Bomb on Me" - Gap Band.

12) Morten Andersen the oldest active NFL player at age 44 - "The Old Man Down The Road" by John Fogerty or "Touch of Grey" - Grateful Dead .

13) All the Detroit Lion Fans - "Patience" - Guns N' Roses.

14) Detroit Lions Head Coach Rod Marinelli - "The Heat Is On" - Glenn Frey.

15) The one song always played in the locker room of any team before they play the winless Lions - "Take It Easy On Me" - Little River Band.

16) Any NFL Wild Card Team left hoping for a playoff spot- "Livin' on a Prayer" - Bon Jovi.

17) For all those poor innocent NFL players included in the steroid accusations this year - "I Beg Your Pardon" - Kon Kan.

18) And last but not least, When Green Bay Packer QB Aaron Rogers gets a Christmas Card with tickets to watch the Jets play in the AFC playoffs, there will be no need for a signature, just a song called "The Boy from New York City" - Manhattan Transfer, and maybe the secret admirer's #4, Just Because!

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

Call 911, The Jaguars Have Gone Into Cardiac Arrest

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 02:11:14 GMT

It's safe to say that the Jacksonville Jaguars need some serious help, but what is really the answer for this sick team? Do they need a new head coach? A new defensive coordinator, as rumored? Or a new defense, period! Maybe a more consistent Quarterback might help some. Hey, how about more depth in the receiving class. They have to be Jonesing for something, now that Matt the crack head is gone, and Jerry Porter is on Injured Reserve. What a waste Porter has been , costing the Jaguars approximately $1 million dollars per catch, after making 11 catches all year, but was paid $10 million just to sign on the dotted line before the season even started.

Anyways, there are plenty of areas to address with this team, but I want to try and break it down, one section at a time. The first, but not necessarily the most important, will be the running backs, or lack there of. I'll tackle the other problems later.

One of the areas that Jacksonville needs help, is at the running back position. I'm not suggesting that they get rid of Maurice Jones-Drew. Drew in my opinion is one of the elite running backs in the league. Jones-Drew leads Jacksonville in rushing, ranks second in receptions and is one of the league's top scoring threats. He has 14 touchdowns in as many games this season, 40 in his three-year career and hasn't missed a single game because of injury. And for $445,000, he's a steal.

What I am suggesting, is that Jacksonville get Jones-Drew some help. I'm proposing a duel threat, such as the type that the Carolina Panthers present each and every game. The old one-two knockout combination called DeAngelo Williams and Jonathan Stewart.

I have always loved Fred Taylor. His work ethics are unmatched, and he's also just a great guy. The Ex-Florida Gator, is 16th on the NFL's all-time rushing list with 11,271 yards, 81 behind John Riggins. He had 556 yards on the ground this season, splitting time with Maurice Jones-Drew, and averaged a career-low 3.9 yards a carry behind an injury-riddled offensive line.

Taylor was a first-round draft pick from 1998 who has played his entire career in Jacksonville. I hate to see him go. But that day has come. Lets face something right now, Freddy T has probably played his last game for Jacksonville. On Thursday, Taylor was placed on injured reserve because of a thumb injury, ending his season with three games left and questions about his future with the franchise are flying rampant.

Taylor has said as recent as two weeks ago, that he never wants to leave Jacksonville. But with a $6 million dollar check due next year, it's likely that Taylor is gone. Taylor did say that he would consider staying for a reduced rate. But just how much reduction in pay is he willing to take? I'm telling you, the Jaguars won't pay him anywhere near $6 fat ones for a part-time player. So, the Jags need a second productive running to help Marice-Jones-Drew. The answer is not Chauncey Washington or Alvin Pearman. The question might remain unanswered until the 2009 draft. There are plenty of good running backs coming out of college this year and the Jags should take their sweet time before making any selection.

No need to rush now Jacksonville, because one thing is for sure certain, you'll be watching the playoffs from your sofa this year. So take it easy, and think about the wasted year, and why it all went wrong. Make a list, and check it twice, because the crew you got now won't suffice. Look down south, and check out what Big Tuna has done. And maybe one day, one day, you too can make a run. But for now, just take your medicine.
By: Charles J Asbury II
"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

Are The Miami Dolphins Back?

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 02:04:29 GMT

Last year this time, the Dolphins were 0-13. Flash forward one year, and the Tuna Fish are 9-5. Is this team, and it's turn around another product of the football savior, Bill Parcells?

In the past, Bill Parcells has taken three teams and transformed them into winners. The Giants, Patriots, Jets, and Cowboys all excelled under the grumpy old coach.

In his new role as V.P. of Operations, Big P., quickly enticed G.M. Jeff Ireland to join the show, who in turn hired 29 new players. Parcells then went shopping for a new coach. Tony Sparano got the gig, and since that moment, this Dolphin show finally has more fans at their home games than Marineland has on any hot summer day.

Tony Sparano is the Dolphin's fifth coach in as many years, and could possibly end up being selected "Coach of the Year. And although, Parcells's primary role is obviously personnel decisions, he still offers his coaches tips on things he sees on film, in practice, or even in warmups.

While they do have the luxury of a soft schedule this year, right now, the Dolphins are tied with the Patriots and Jets for first place in the AFC East, and if they sweep their final three games, they're in the playoffs for the first time since 2001. They also could become the first team to win ten games after going 1-15 the previous year.

While never being a huge fan of Big Tuna, I must give props where they're due. So good job ole Sour Face, and can you please help out the Jacksonville Jaguars next?

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

Is Dale Earnhardt Jr becoming another Kyle Petty?

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 01:54:29 GMT

Is Dale Earnhardt Jr becoming another Kyle Petty?

As a Dale Jr fan, this past year in Nascar was disappointing and boring to say the least. Towards the end of the year, I began to wonder is Dale Earnhardt Jr becoming another Kyle Petty?

At some point in his career, Kyle Petty became no threat to race leaders and seemed content to float at the back of the pack almost every race. He would basically drive around the track advertising for whatever company would sponsor him. I could never understand how Petty fans could get so excited when their driver raced past them in the stands, because he was usually in last place. I mean what's the point of racing? To win right? Seriously, were they yelling because they really liked the sponsor. Just Kidding. Of course not, but seriously, Go Wells Fargo Go. I mean, I know Petty has a huge following because of his father and so does Dale Jr, and that's where I'm heading with this.

Lots of the money that Nascar drivers make are from endorsements, and Jr is making his fair share. The problem is, that when a person becomes content with the other cash they are making, which in some cases is a lot more than from racing, they become satisfied with that income and hang back in most races.

Remember Rusty Wallace? He basically was in charge of advertising for Miller Lite. That's it! He got to the point where he never won races anymore, and didn't seem to be bothered by it either. But he always pulled out his long thank you list after the race, and got those brownie points. Of course he got paid, and Miller Lite got noticed as well. He probably said, "You give me a car to drive and I'll hook you up on T.V. after the race, I promise". And his fans say "No problem, Rusty, I'll drink a 12 pack of Miller Lite just so I can forget that you're my sorry driver".

At times this past year it felt as though Dale Jr had lost something. I know he didn't lose his talent. He is one of the most talented driver out there, right beside teammates, Jimmy Johnson and Jeff Gordon. It's in his genes. Just like Kyle Petty, Jr got it from his dad. I just hope Jr isn't losing the desire to win. His dad never lost the desire to win, and his dad made huge jack off endorsements. But Earnhardt Sr never, never, NEVER stopped wanting to win.

So what if Dale Jr starts driving a car that is poop brown and gets a sponsor like Tidy Bowl. Would people still cheer for him, even if he never won. I pull for Jr., but a brown car? And I wouldn't wear a Tidy Bowl hat either, unless he won of course. I mean, in Nascar, winning is everything to the fans. Hey, we spend three hours or more watching those guys go a round and round, until we're cross eyed, at least they can do is win sometimes. I mean, we're all getting brain damage listening to Ned Jarred slur talk us through the race, so please give us something to cheer about. And Darrell Waltrip, I don't care if so-and-so's car is drifting, so is my attention span. Just win Jr.!!!

Anyway, I hope Jr never becomes totally satisfied with the money from his Wrangler commercials. I hope he drinks more of his sponser's AMP! Maybe then, he might get a boost, and feel like winning sometimes. Heck, take a Viagra if you need to. I wouldn't even mind if Jr drove the Viagra car, as long as he wins sometimes. Just don't expect me to wear a Viagra hat.

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

Tampa Bay Ray News

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 20 Dec 2008 01:49:59 GMT

The Tampa Bay Rays make a move and acquire Matt Joyce from the Detroit Tigers for Edwin Jackson.

Joyce has the power that the Rays were seeking. Last year during his rookie season, the 24-year-old, hit five home runs in his first 13 games. He was the 12th round pick in 2005 and finished with a .252 batting average, 12 home runs and 33 runs batted in during 92 games. Although his avg. could be higher, most and I said most, players increase the avg. with some hard work and more playing time. The Tampa native played 60 of his 85 games in left field for the Tigers. In the minors, he has played the majority of his time in right. That's where he will most likely play for the Rays.

Hopefully the Rays aren't finished yet. They still need a power DH in the lineup. The Rays have confirmed meeting with Milton Bradley, Jason Giambi, Bobby Abreu, Jerry Hermida, Rick Ankiel, Rick Nelson, Nelson Cruz and yes even Ken Griffey Jr.

I hope they go after Milton Bradley. This guy is young and stacked with raw power. If you've ever seen him bat, he is so intense, the way he takes each and every at-bat so serious. I would always feel comfortable with two outs and the score tied in the bottom of the ninth knowing Milton was coming up. So come on Rays, and just pull the trigger on this kid. How can you go wrong with a name like Milton Bradley. By the way, doesn't some toy company named Milton Bradley make the infamous TONKA TRUCK? Case Closed!!!

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

Can Percy Come Out And Play?

Firedawg1982 — Sat, 13 Dec 2008 23:30:38 GMT

The word is out, Florida Gator Percy Harvin will play in the National Championship against the Oklahoma Sooners. A healthy Harvin will of course have a tremendous impact on the outcome of the big game. Many people focus on his raw explosive talent, and they should, but the biggest aspect of a healthy Harvin, might just be his ability to draw attention as a decoy. Tim Teabow and the Gators can win the Championship without getting the ball to Percy one single time.
Florida truly did miss Percy in the SEC Championship game. Heck, it might of been 41-20 if he was playing. But as we saw in that game, the Gators have an arsenal of offensive weapons always on standby. No team can afford to shun the likes of Tim Teabow, Jerrery Demps, and Chris Rainey. And how can you come up with an effective game plan that realistically covers those guys and then Riley Cooper, David Nelson, Brandon James, and Emmanuel James as well. The answer is, you probably can't! I would like to throw another nuke at you while we're talking great players, his name is Aaron Hernandez. This guy is off the charts with talent. If there is one guy that the Sooners should watch, it's Hernandez.
Of course, any great coach like Bob Stoops will naturally try and formulate some plan to contain the highly potent Gators. Truthfully, I'd rather be in Urban Myers shoes, because Florida has the ability to get you off balance and then knock you out. Sometimes all you can do is try and hold on like some tired boxer getting beat down in the corner while the crowd yells..."knock em out, knock em out." Yeah, the Gators do float like a butterfly and sting like a bee.
Now back to Harvin, who might be the most entertaining college football player ever to play at the University of Florida. Nobody gets the fans out of their seats like this guy. He has the ability to make tacklers look silly, with his nasty jukes, as they try and bring him down, then turns on the jets and he is gone. I mean, GONE! Just like Coach Myer has said many times this year, Percy Harvin has the best first step in college football. And second step, and third step and...you get the picture.
So will they get Percy the ball? I think we all know that answer, of course they will! Some coach up in the box, high above the playing field will see some situation developing each and every play, until the call is made. The obvious conversation will go something like this. "It's Time." That's all that he will need to say. "It's Time." And the next play, Teabow will be looking down field for the Heisman that could of been. If those two hook up, watch out, because, "he-could-go-all-the -way!!!"
Coach Stoops has his hands full the next couple of weeks trying to come up with some sort of plan to deal with the feisty Florida bunch, but his hardest job of all, might be trying to sale it to his own team. If those Sooner players watched any Gator games this year, or ESPN highlights, they must be reeling with anxiety at this point. But if there is one team that can possibly upset the Gators, it's the Sooners. Why? I'm so glad you insist on proding me for my infinite college football wisdom. It's because Bob Stoops used to be the defensive coordinator for the Florida Gators. Just thought I'd throw that in there too! Whatever the outcome, the National Championship is sure to be one heck of a shoot out. And I believe those Gators will be the National Champions a lot Sooner than those Okie dudes! Go Gators!!!

By: Charles J Asbury II

"The Florida Writer" http://flawriter.com
"The Florida Writer Sports Blog" http://flawriter.com/blog

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