BASEBALL

It was a very special day for baseball for two reasons:  (1) The All-Star Game.  Yep, it was time for the best of the National and American to go head to head.  Some all-star games are all about offensive power and prowess, but this one… was a defensive struggle.  The American League finally got on the board in the 5th when the Yankees Robinson Cano hit a sacrifice fly to bring the Rays’ Evan Longoria home.  But, in the 7th, the Atlanta Braves Brian McCann hit a strong double to drive in 3 runs.  At the end, the Dodgers dominant closer Jonathan Broxton took the mound and secured the victory for the National League.  NL 3, AL 1.

And the second reason… Yankees long-time owner George Steinbrenner (known as the Boss) died yesterday at the age of 80 from a massive heart attack.  Steinbrenner had a reputation for the last 30 years of being a shrewd businessman who fired people on the spot.  However, he also changed the game of baseball.  He was the one who returned the New York Yankees to their dominant position in baseball.  Before him, nobody thought you could build such a powerhouse team.  And throughout the 90s, and 00’s, Steinbrenner was the guy bringing all-star after all-star to New York.   He didn’t exactly play fair at times… but you have to respect his overwhelming drive to win. His personality was bigger than the game and he will surely be missed.

BASKETBALL

The Miami Heat are trying to surround their three superstars (Bosh, Wade, LeBron) with key role players.  Their latest addition, a former Cavalier — Zydrunas Ilgauskas.  Big ‘Z’ as LeBron dubbed him, was an important ingredient to the Cavs success.  He plays good defense, grabs rebounds, and will be able to dish the ball back out to Wade and LeBron for second chance opportunities.   We’ll see what else the Heat have up their sleeves this off-season.

Finally, while all the attention in the NBA is on Miami and Los Angeles, the Utah Jazz are quietly putting together a fantastic team.  They lost Carlos Boozer to the Chicago Bulls, but yesterday they added Al Jefferson from the Timberwolves.  Jefferson is a true star.  He’s young, grabs rebounds, and scores points.  Last year, he was injured.  This year, he’s expected to have a turn around season.  Putting him in Utah alongside one of the best point guards in Deron Williams should give the Jazz a shot of making some strong headway in the playoffs.

BASEBALL

It’s All-Star week in baseball, and you know what that means:  Home Run Derby.  Oddly, the player heading into the Derby with the most home runs in the current seasons has NEVER won the derby.  Quite strange.  This season hosted a ton of big bats:  Matt Holliday, Corey Hart, Hanley Ramirez, among many others.  But the victor was an unlikely candidate.  David Ortiz of the Boston Red Sox took the prize with 11 homers in the final round.  This is wild because Ortiz started this season absolutely terrible.  Many rumors had him leaving Boston, so to win the Derby might just keep him in town.

BASKETBALL

And in the NBA, after setting up a mega-powerhouse, the Miami Heat needed to make sure that Bosh/Wade/LeBron had someone to play with.  Well, they kept a stellar rebounder in Udonis Haslem, signing him to a multi-year contract AND brought in sharp-shooter Mike Miller from Washington Wizards.  Miller is the perfect role player.  He hits a 3 when he needs to, and can play decent defense when called upon.  If this juggernaut does in fact make a championship run, Miller and Haslem will be key components.

Finally, the Big 3 in Miami are now starting to respond to some of the backlash against them.  First of all, Chris Bosh said that they may be the Yankees of basketball right now (because of their star power), but he doesn’t care if nobody likes it.  He said, “We like it, and that’s all that matters.”  Then, Dwayne answered reports criticizing LeBron for not “doing it himself” (meaning win a championship).  Wade told reporters to check the reports, “Nobody has done it by themselves — not Jordan, Magic, or Bird.  They all had help”.  And technically he’s right.  Jordan had Pippen and Rodman, Magic had Kareem and James Worthy, and Bird had McHale and Parish.  This Miami experiment is going to be purely fascinating to watch.

SOCCER

After four weeks of riveting competition, the World Cup finally came down to just one last game.  It was a battle between the surging Netherlands (dubbed “The Orange” because of their all Orange uniforms) against mighty Spain (a Top three talent who, while in the championship, hasn’t been playing the best soccer throughout this tournament).  When it’s just one match, anything goes.  There is no “favored” team or “logical” choice, it’s simply a contest between two teams that have grinded it out against the world’s best and have earned the right to an “Anything Goes” soccer match.

Many expected this game to be a shootout, thinking that the aggregate score would be over 4.5 goals, but people couldn’t be more wrong.  This game was a defensive stand still.  Both teams brought their A-game, but nobody on either defense wanted to be responsible for losing an entire World Cup for their country.  We’ve already seen defensemen practically get exiled for letting a goal slip by, so you can imagine the kind of lashing one would receive for botching a play in the Final Game.  With that said, the defenses brought their game to another stratosphere.  The game was tied at half.

And, a second half didn’t produce any results either.  We would need two 15-minute overtime sessions to decide the World’s biggest game.  Even then, the teams remained tied at 0-0 after the first OT period.  In the second OT, Spain turned it on and were playing much more aggressive than the Netherlands.  They got a few great shots on goal… but nothing.  Then it was the Netherlands chance, as they capitalized on a few good looks, but strong goal keeping kept it out of the net.  It appeared we were headed to penalty kicks — the worst case scenario given the stakes involved.  But then… it happened.  In the 116th minute, Andres Iniesta had a beautiful breakaway and kicked a goal past the Netherland’s keeper.  The place was electric!!!!  The Netherlands had about 5 more minutes to equalize it, but the miracle goal just didn’t come.  Game… Over!  Spain wins their first World Cup ever, and solidifies its place at the top.   From this point forth, expect to hear “Spain” among the elite soccer nations.  Spain 1, Netherlands 0.

BASEBALL

With the All-Star game approaching, it was time for the “futures” all-star game.  This is where the best of the minor league systems split up into USA vs. The World.  The MLB is composed of myriad nationalities and this game is a chance to see if the future of baseball is more domestic or international.  Well, as of now, it’s domestic, as the USA minor leaguers routed the International Competition.  Hank Conger of the Los Angeles Angels farm system hit a three-run blast to give them a commanding lead, and that’s all they would need to hang on for the win.  USA 8, International 1.

BASKETBALL

At 9:27 pm Thursday night, Lebron James made the decision heard round the world…he is going to play for the Miami Heat next year. Speculation was high all day. Would he remain loyal to his hometown and stay in Cleveland, would he join his pals Chris Bosh and Dwayne Wade and set up an unstoppable season in Miami or would he decide to play in the big media capital of New York? The press conference was held in Greenwich, CT (just 15 minutes from the Knicks practice facility) so New Yorkers thought this meant he was going to pick the Knicks.

The wait was finally over, and with throngs of fans lining the street in front of the Boys and Girls club in Greenwich, King James “humbly” stated, “I”m going to take my talents to South Beach and join the Miami Heat.”

Now, that the media show is over, we can all relax for the weekend and enjoy the World Cup featuring the Netherlands vs Spain on Sunday at 2;30 pm.

BASKETBALL

The LeBron Watch:  ”The Decision” (the hour long special Thursday night at 9;00 pm)  will finally put to rest the speculation as to where LeBron James will play next year. All indications so far point to him playing for the Miami Heat, but we’ll have to wait a few hours before knowing for sure. Although, DeWayne Wade and Chris Bosh both announced on Wednesday that they will commit to the Heat for next year.  If LeBron joins his buddies, the Heat should be unstoppable….and, can you imagine the crowds that will come out to watch these three amazing players?

SOCCER

Stephen Colbert (whom I think is one of the funniest comedians ever) reported  that now that the US was ousted from the World Cup, we don’t have to pay attention to soccer anymore. Well, I don’t know about you, but I think this World Cup has been a blast to watch and I can’t wait to see the Finals.

Wednesday’s semi-final match between Spain and Germany was another thrilling spectacle. After Spain’s Carles Puyol gracefully headed a corner kick in to the goal in the 73rd minute of the match, Germany’s fate was pretty much decided. The Team could not come back and Spain went on to win 1-0. Spain will now play the Netherlands in the finals on Sunday at 2:30 pm est. Ok, it’s not Super Bowl Sunday, but it will be an exciting afternoon!

BASKETBALL

In the NBA, the free agency news is heating up.

First up, the New York Knicks have decided to make sure they got some goods in case they didn’t get LeBron.  Well, they went ahead and signed former Phoenix Suns star Amar’e Stoudemire to a 5-year deal.  Stoudemire is a very good player, but has been injury plagued over the years.  He just had a good season, but one must wonder how much of his success is due to the incredible play of two-time MVP Steve Nash.  The Knicks don’t have that kind of player or leadership, and this might not work out for New York.

However, Stoudemire is already campaigning to get some other stars to New York.  Reportedly, Stoudemire has put the word out to Tony Parker and Carmelo Anthony that they should join him in the big apple.  After all, Carmelo is a New Yorker, having played his college ball at Syracuse.  New Yorkers would love and embrace him.  We’ll see how the NY situation pans out.

And speaking of New York, they are still very much alive in the LeBron hunt.  And here’s why:  LeBron has told the media that he will make his decision on Thursday.  However, he doesn’t intend to make this announcement quietly.  He wants a special on ESPN to announce the “winning” team, and also wants to sell sponsorship against the special.  The sponsorship proceeds would go to the Boys and Girls Club, so you have to congratulate LeBron for trying to make something good with all this attention he’s receiving.

As for where he will choose, that’s anybody’s guess.  New York and Chicago are very much alive, as are the Miami Heat.  Sure, there’s always a chance he stays in Cleveland, a strong chance in fact, but Chris Bosh, whom LeBron wanted as a teammate, said he won’t play in Cleveland.  Therefore, if James does stay in his hometown, there is a strong possibility that he won’t grab a championship there.

SOCCER

And in World Cup soccer, the Netherlands were hoping to make it to the World Cup Final.  They just needed to beat the nagging, but surging Uruguay team, who has shocked everyone by making it to the semifinal.  After all, Uruguay was in the same group as #1 seed France and #2 seed Mexico.  They weren’t even supposed to get to the second round, so you can bet these guys have no fear.  Well, fearlessness isn’t enough in World Cup play — you have to be perfect.  The game was tied at 1-1 going into the half, but 2 fantastic goals from the Netherlands would be all they would need to reach the World Cup Finals.  Now they await the winner of Spain/Germany Wednesday.  Netherlands 3, Uruguay 2.

SOCCER

In the World Cup, Brazil looked to continue their dominating run.  But, Chile has had their own surprisingly fantastic run in this tournament as well and had full confidence they could upset the Brazilians.  Well, this did not happen, as Brazil brought their game to a whole new level.  They got beautiful goals from Juan, Luis Fabiano, and Robinho.  These guys truly look incredible right now and poised to win this thing.  Brazil 3, Chile 0.

And in another  World Cup game, it was Netherlands vs. Slovakia.  The Netherlands have been quietly excellent in this tournament (meaning they are a very tough team, but have not been bragged about as much throughout the Cup thus far).  The Netherlands got up early in this game with a goal at the 18-minute mark from Arjen Robben.  But, unlike the Brazil game, this was not a blowout. The Slovakians got some amazing goal opportunities, but just couldn’t finish.  Then, in the 84th minute, the Netherlands’ Wesley Sneijder booted another goal to close this thing out.  Slovakia scored a penalty goal at the end of the match, but it just wasn’t enough.  Next up for the Netherlands… Brazil — in a match that will be one to remember.  Netherlands 2, Slovakia 1.

BASKETBALL

In the NBA, something very interesting took place.  It appears that the superstar free agents — LeBron James, Dwayne Wade, and Chris Bosh all met in private to discuss their futures.  There is speculation that Bosh and LeBron will join Wade in Miami to form a superstar team — a team that’s built to win championship after championship after championship.  Of course, there’s the money situation that needs to be worked out, and it’s still not decided that LeBron will leave his native Cleveland, but this dream scenario is truly mesmerizing.  Of course, this is all speculation, but it would be fantastic to watch this happen.  And remember, all of these players were from the 2003 draft.  What a draft class!!!

ON VACATION! NEXT WATERCOOLER JULY 7TH

HAPPY 4TH OF JULY!

SOCCER

In the World Cup, the United States hoped to continue their miracle run.  They had a favorable match-up with Ghana, although Ghana was the team that ousted the U.S. in 2006.  Well, in their typical fashion, the U.S. gave up an early goal to Ghana.  At this point, the U.S. is accustomed to playing from behind, but it still changes your mindset and overall strategy of the game.  Early in the second half, Landon Donovan had a penalty shot, and it bounced off the goal-post and IN for the equalizing goal.  The game would even require overtime, but, unfortunately, Ghana scored a quick goal in the overtime period, forcing a tired United States to try and score another goal.  And it just didn’t happen.  Sadly, the United States made their exit from the World Cup on Saturday — but they still put themselves on the international map of soccer.  They certainly have the world’s respect.  Ghana 2, United States 1.

And on Sunday, the highly anticipated game between two soccer juggernauts — Germany and England.  England has had a lackluster Cup so far, but perhaps they could pull it together when it counted.  Well, not exactly.  Germany simply had their way with England, scoring goal after goal after goal.  The expectations were high for England entering this Cup, with some thinking they could win it all, but England just didn’t come to play in this year’s tournament, and because of that, they, like the U.S., boarded a plane back home.  Germany 4, England 1.

In the second anticipated match on Sunday, it was a battle between two great soccer nations:  Argentina and Mexico.  In these countries, life ceases to exist during the World Cup — the company shuts down and turns their TVs on.  Argentina has been on fire so far, winning all of their games.  Their head coach is former soccer great Maradona, and he was criticized by Argentina soccer enthusiasts as picking an inferior team.  Well, it looks like he knows what he’s doing, as the Argentines are surging.  And Mexico certainly wouldn’t stand in their way.  Argentina’s Carlos Tevez had two clutch goals to put Argentina up early.  It would stay that way, and now Argentina cruises into the second round, setting up an incredible match between Argentina and Germany.  Argentina 3, Mexico 1.

BASKETBALL

And in the NBA, the LeBron mystery continues, but in the meantime the New Jersey Nets intend to court Dwayne Wade.  The rumor mill has LeBron going to Chicago, Miami, or staying in Cleveland, and it looks like the Nets are hedging their bets a bit.  If they can’t get LeBron, nabbing Dwayne Wade and Chris Bosh as a consolation prize is a fantastic parting gift.  Of course, at this point, it’s all speculation, but it’s interesting to see these teams execute their free agent ‘wooing’ strategy.

BASKETBALL

It was draft night in the NBA — a night that had big implications in this year’s big off-season free agency market.  Teams were practically giving away players and draft picks in order to make cap room for some of the big names out there (e.g. Joe Johnson, Chris Bosh, and of course LeBron James).

For example, at the last minute, the Chicago Bulls essentially gave point-guard Kirk Heinrich to the Washington Wizards.  The reason:  This gave them enough cap space to theoretically sign LeBron James AND another big name free agent — maybe Chris Bosh or Amar’e Stoudemire.  This is very bad news for the New York Knicks as they were previously the only team that had enough room to sign LeBron and give him his choice of whom he wanted to play with.  In fact, it looks like there are only 3 likely destinations for LeBron now:  Cleveland, Chicago, or Miami (if he wants to play with Dwayne Wade).

John Wall went #1 overall to the Washington Wizards.  This gives the Wizards a big-name franchise player to build around.  The Sixers grabbed Ohio State’s Evan Turner at #2, giving them a versatile athlete who can play 3 positions.  And the New Jersey Nets nabbed Georgia Tech’s Derrick Favors with the #3 pick.  It’s unclear how good Favors will be in the NBA, but the Nets fell in love with his “upside” — a term used more at the NBA draft than any other time of the year.

SOCCER

And in the World Cup, Italy, the 2006 Defending Champions, were ousted from the tournament by an extremely pesky Slovokia team.  Slovakia was up 2-0, Italy rallied back, but Slovokia had that 1 goal advantage to propel them to the second round.  Slovakia 3, Italy 2.

TENNIS

In tennis, the longest game ever in tennis history finally came to an end today.  The match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut lasted 10 hours on Wednesday, and was postponed till Thursday due to darkness.  In tennis, you need to win your final set by two games — these guys were tied at 58.  Well, they played for a while longer, but finally the America John Isner hit a great shot to take the win.  Of course, he collapsed when it happened.  At the end of the match, each player received a special award for their determination and stamina in this historic match.  Congratulations!

SOCCER

Tuesday was a monumental day in U.S. soccer history.  The game between United States and Algeria was an instant classic.  Here’s the story:  The United States controlled their own destiny going into the game — beat Algeria and they’re through to the next round.  They could also advance with an England/Slovenia tie, but winning was the way to go because England is a very strong team and since England was playing at the same time as the US, the players had no way of knowing if England was winning, losing or in a tie.  Well, England easily won their game, so it was up to the US to win to move to the next round.
The U.S./Algeria game was tied 0-0 throughout.  The U.S. even kicked a goal, but it was ruled off-sides (even though a replay clearly shows that it WASN’T off-sides and should have been a goal).  Then, mid-way through the second half, Clint Dempsey missed an easy put-back that would have given the U.S. the victory.  Unfortunately, time was ticking away, and U.S. fans were losing hope.  It looked as if they weren’t going to score a goal and would be going home.  All the United States soccer hype would quickly be extinguished.  Then, it hit the 90-minute mark, and the refs awarded 4-minutes of extra stoppage time.  These minutes are usually meaningless, but then an odd twist of fate happened.  Jozy Altidore burst down the field and passed for a shot on goal.  The goalie deflected it, but then U.S. captain and hero, Landon Donovan,  swarmed in from behind and put the ball in.  GOOOOOOAAAAAAAALLLLLLL!!!!!  It was purely a miracle — a miracle that keeps the U.S. in the Cup.  In fact, they won their group outright and will face Ghana in the first round of the Knockout Stage (meaning it’s all win or go-home now).  Ghana is a winnable game, and if they win, they would take on the winner of Uruguay and South Korea (also beatable teams).  The U.S. has a relatively easy path to the Final Four of the World Cup, which would be unprecedented in U.S. soccer.  This is beyond exciting!!!  United States 1, Algeria 0.

TENNIS

In Wimbledon, history is also being made.  A match between John Isner and Nicolas Mahut set the record for the longest match in tennis history.  Most matches last between 2 and 3 hours.  This match is at 10 hours — and it’s still going!!!!   In tennis, you have to win your final set by two games.  Well, they are currently tied at 59-59, and had to be postponed because of darkness.  The match will continue Thursday.  This is absolutely insane!  They’re just going and going and going and nobody can get ahead.  If you have a chance, watch some highlights from the match. These two players are giving it their all…sliding across the court, running at full speed. It’s incredible to see such determination and stamina.  It all continues Thursday, and who knows how long this thing will go on.