Since it's that time of the spring when the regular season is drawing, and teams are simply trying to avoid injuries, minor leaguer Kyle Drabek got the start for the Phils today, and was roughed, allowing 5 runs on 5 hits, as the Phils lost to the Yankees 8-5. Jayson Werth slammed his 6th homerun of the spring in the loss.
Wednesday, April 01, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The news came back on Thaddeus Young, it wasn't great. Fortunately, it also wasn't that bad either. He will miss 2-3 weeks, which means his services will not be available for the rest of the regular season, however, he will be back at least for the playoffs, so assuming the Sixers don't collapse without him for the rest of the season, he'll be back.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed the Atlanta Hawks to the Wachovia center tonight. After consecutive losses, the Sixers actually came in still able ,with a win, pull within .5 games of 5th place in the Eastern conference, with the Miami Heat idle on the night. Fortunately, Sammy Dalembert suffered only a calf strain, was able to play tonight. Thus, with Sammy back patroling the middle the Sixers picked it up on defense, and frankly the Hawks missed a lot of open shots, in shooting just 44% from the field. The Sixers weren't much better shooting just 46% from the field, but they hit em the when the Hawks missed em, and were able to build up enough of a lead early on, to hang on for the big win. The Sixers jumped out to a 12 point lead after a quarter of play, and a 14 point lead at the half with the score 51-37, but Thaddeus Young went down with an ankle sprain. In the 3rd quarter without Thad to keep up the scoring the Hawks made some inroads, but the Sixers were still up by 8 heading into the 4th quarter with the score 77-69. The Hawks actually made it tighter in the 4th quarter, but the Sixers stayed composed and Maurice Speights came up big with 16 points, as the Sixers were able to push back out to a convincing 13 point win, with the final score 98-85. So the Sixers move to 38-35 overall and remain 6th in the Eastern conference, now just .5 games behind the 5th place Heat. Also at the moment Young is listed as day to day.
PHILLIES NEWS
Brett Myers allowed just one run on 3 hits in 4 innings of work, while Jimmy Rollins, Jayson Werth, and Raul Ibanez each collected 2 hits as the Phils knocked off the Toronto Blue Jays 9-1. In other news Brett Myers was announced as the Phils opening day starter, since Cole Hamels just won't quite be ready in time. Also in a somewhat surprise move the Phils released Geoff Jenkins. At 35 years old, he spent a good bit of last on the DL, and didn't seem to have much left in the tank, save for one huge hit. So for now, the Phils bench is Matt Stairs, Greg Dobbs, Eric Bruntlett, Chris Coste, and for now anyway, Miguel Cairo. The Phils are still shopping though for a righthanded bat to add to their bench, and have reportedly contacted agent of Gary Sheffield, recently released by the Tigers, with 499 career homers in a once stellar career now tarnished by accusations of steroid use. He looked pretty washed up himself at times, last season, but it could interesting to have him around.
Monday, March 30, 2009
PHILLIES NEWS
Chan Ho Park allowed 2 runs on 6 hits in 5 and 2/3rds innings of work while Jimmy Rollins, Eric Bruntlett, Ryan Howard, and Carlos Ruiz each smashed homeruns as the Phils clobbered the Astros 13-3. This is Park's last start of spring training so it won't be long now before the Phils decide who will start their 5th game of the season. In other news the Phils made some roster decisions today, releasing Marcus Giles, who had been competing for a job on the Phils bench but had a terrible spring, and optioning off top prospects John Mayberry and Carlos Carrasco to triple A, so they'll be ready to be called up later in the season if need be and so that they can continue to develop, rather than just getting spot duty with the big club. So the Phils bench for now, will be Greg Dobbs, Geoff Jenkins, Eric Bruntlett, Matt Stairs, Chris Coste, and possibly Miguel Cairo if the Phils decide to go into the season with only 11 pitchers, or if Jenkins or Stairs is traded before the season.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Detroit for a matchup with Allen Iverson and the Pistons, as they looked to rebound from their loss to the Bobcats on Friday. Early on it looked like the Sixers would handle the struggling Pistons, but then Sammy Dalembert went down with an injury, and at the end without Sammy D protecting the middle the Pistons were able shred the Sixers defense and pull out the win. 27 points from Andre Iguodala, and 22 from Thaddeus Young just were not enough, as the Pistons shot 52% from the field. Early on the Sixers had the lead and actually were clinging to a one point lead at the half and a 4 point lead heading into the 4th quarter with the score 83-79. Then the Pistons turned it on in the 4th, and with no Sammy D to shut them down, they rallied to a point lead of their own and did not relinquish it, winning 101-97. So the Sixers drop their 2nd in a row and fall to 37-35 overall, still 6th in the Eastern conference, but now 1.5 games behind the 5th place Miami Heat.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Boston Bruins to the Wachovia center tonight, looking to add another one to the win column. Just like last night, they fell behind early, just like last night rallied back in the 3rd period, unfortunately this time Boston had an answer. With the Flyers playing on back to back nights, Antero Niittymaki got the start in goal, and allowed 3 goals early, but from there he saved 15 of the next 16 shots he faced to help the Flyers rally back. Early in the first period Claude Giroux scored for a 1-0 lead. Late in the period Milan Lucic scored to knot it up at 1. A few minutes later Dennis Wideman made it 2-1 Boston. A few minutes later Lucic scored again and it was 3-1 Boston. Late in the 2nd period Mike Richards scored to cut it to 3-2. Early in the 3rd period Mark Recchi, the ex Flyer, scored for a 4-2 Boston lead. Finally with just over a minute to play Simon Gagne scored to cut it to 4-3. The Flyers then had chances to to tie it up late, but they could not, and finally fell 4-3. So the Orange and Black drop to 41-24-10 overall, but remain 4th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Joe Blanton allowed just 2 runs on 4 hits in 6 and 1/3rd innings of work, but Jon Lester allowed jusst 1 run on 6 hits in 5 innings work, and the Red Sox outlasted the Phils 3-1. It's okay it is only spring training.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
After a tough loss to the Florida Panthers in their last game, the Flyers traveled to New York, no not to the garden, but down to the Nassau Coliseum, for a matchup with the perennial elixir that is the Islanders. This time however, it looked like for a while that they would only makes things worse, but the Flyers woke up just in time in the 3rd period and managed to rally back for the win. Marty Biron again got the start in goal and netted 30 huge saves, out of the 33 shots he faced. Meanwhile after two lackluster periods, Joffrey Lupul save the day with two scores in the 3rd period, including his 100th career goal. Late in the first period Radek Martinek scored for a 1-0 Islander lead. Early in the 2nd period Jeff Tambellini made it 2-0 Isles. Early in the 3rd period Lupul scored his first to cut it to 2-1. A couple minutes later Scott Hartnell scored to knot it up at 2. A couple minutes later Lupul scored again and suddenly the Flyers were up 3-2. Seconds later Mark Streit scored to tie it up again for the Isles. From there neither team could score for the remainder of regulation or in overtime, so the game went into a shootout. Fortunately, the Flyers were playing about the only team worse than them at shootouts. In the first round of the shootout Danny Briere scored for the Flyers and Brendan Witt missed for the Isles. In the 2nd round of the shootout Mike Richards scored for the Flyers and Frans Nielsen scored for the Isles. Finally in the 3rd round of the shootout,Mark Streit was unsuccessful for the Isles, to clinch the 4-3 win for the Flyers. So the Orange and Black improve to 41-23-10 overall for 92 points, and still 4th in the Eastern conference, now just 6 points behind the Devils for 1st in the Atlantic division and 3rd in the conference, but it is still long shot that they will catch them.
PHILLIES NEWS
Carlos Ruiz slammed a 3 run homer, and Ryan Howard crushed a 500+ foot solo homer, but Jamie Moyer allowed 7 runs on 11 hits and the Phils fell to the Pirates 10-4. It's okay Moyer always saves his best stuff for the season.
Friday, March 27, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers welcomed Larry Brown and the Charlotte Bobcats to the Wachovia center tonight. With the Miami Heat idle, the Sixers had an golden opportunity to steal away the 5th spot in the Eastern conference with a win over the struggling Bobcats. It would have been their 4th in a row overall, and 5th in a row at home. Instead they came out sluggish, and the Bobcats came out firing on all cylinders, before almost blowing a huge lead, and then holding off a late Sixes charge. Andre Iguodala and Thaddeus Young led the way offensively , with 25 and 21 points respectively, but the rest of the Sixers strugggled all night long, shooting just 46% from the field and getting to the foul line just 33 times, 10 less than what they had been averaging. Charlotte meanwhile, threaded the Sixers defense again and again, shooting 51% from the field and outmuscling them on the boards, with 13 offensive rebounds, to just 7 for the Sixers, and 41 overall, to just 23 for the Sixers. The Bobcats are also currently 9th in the Eastern conference, just 2.5 games out of the 8th final spot in the East, so they were in much more need of a win tonight then the Sixers, and it showed. Early Charlotte was just on fire as they jumped to a 17 point lead at the half with the score 50-33. In the 3rd quarter the Sixers slowly began chipping away at the Bobcats lead, and had it down to 13 heading into the 4th, with the score 73-60. Finally, late in the 4th quarter, the Sixers offense picked it up and suddenly with just over a minute to play, following a Thaddeus Young layup they pulled to within 2, as the Bobcats were self combusting, perhaps having flashbacks of their last game where they lost after blowing a 20 point lead. Unfortunately, that would not be the case tonight, as Boris Diaw scored on the other end to put Charlotte back up by 4, and complete a 24 point night. Andre Iguodala then drained a 3 pointer with about 25 seconds left to bring the Sixers within 6, after Charlotte had hit some free throws, but again the Sixer's D could not hold off the Bobcats, to set up one last possession to force overtime, and after Iggy missed another three, the Bobcats had held on 100-95. So the Sixers drop to 37-34 overall, but remain 6th in the Eastern conference, .5 games behind the 5th place Miami Heat.
PHILLIES NEWS
Brett Myers allowed 4 runs on 8 hits, and Jayson Werth slammed a 2 run homer, but Miguel Tejada collected 3 hits, including a homerun, to top Werth and lift Astros past the Phils 6-5. It was still decent effort for Myers and it would seem he's ready to start opening day, if Cole Hamels isn't ready to make a go of it. In other news it seems Chris Coste will remain the Phils backup catcher at least for a while longer. The Phils had acquired Ronny Paulino from Pirates in the offseason to replace Coste who's played in just 2 games all spring, but Paulino has hit so poorly this spring, batting under just .194, that Phils traded him to the Giants today for lefty reliever Jack Taschner. Taschner has been a decent reliever in his 4 year career and he simply gives the Phils another lefthanded option in the bullpen until J.C Romero returns from his suspension. Also with Paulino gone, it opens space on the Phillies roster, for both J.A Happ and Chan Ho Park, to stay with team to begin the season. So they don't need to decide right away who will be the 5th starter.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the desperate Florida Panthers to the Wachovia center tonight. Loser's of their last three and 9th in the Eastern conference just a couple points out of the final playoff in the Eastern conference, the Panthers simply needed this one more than the Flyers and it looked like it as they went up early, beating Marty Biron 4 times, and did not relinquish their lead. Late in the 1st period Corey Stillman scored for a 1-0 Panther lead. Late in the 2nd period Jeff Carter scored to knot it up at 1 briefly, before Radek Dvorak scored seconds later to put the Panthers back ahead 2-1. A few minutes later Scott Hartnell scored with just seconds left in the period to knot it up again at 2. Early in the 3rd period Brett Mclean scored for a 3-2 Panther lead. Finally with under a minute to play David Booth scored to put the Panthers up for good 4-2, the eventual final score. So the Orange and Black drop to 40-23-10 overall but remain 4th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Chase Utley and Ryan Howard each homered, but Carlos Carrasco allowed 4 runs on 6 hits in 5 innings work as the Phils fell to the Yankees 10-2. At this point the battle for the 5th spot in the rotation is probably down to Chan Ho Park and J.A Happ.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers returned home at last tonight, as they welcomed the Minnesota Timberwolves to the Wachovia center. Considering the T-Wolves came in with just 20 wins on the season, it seemed a foregone conclusion the Sixers would claim their third win in a row. Surprisingly it was the T-Wolves who came out firing early on, but the Sixers calmly rallied back in the 3rd quarter and eventually outlasted the young T-Wolves for the win. Thaddeus Young led the way offensively, with 29 points, and Andre Iguodala and Andre Miller each added 15. Defensively, it was a solid team effort aided largely by poor offensive execution by the T-Wolves, who shot just 36% from the field. The Sixers, conversely shot a decent 40% from the field, and got to the free throw line twice as many times as the T-Wolves. Simply put when the stakes were highest the Sixers made the plays they had to, while Minnesota could not . Early on Minnesota had the lead, and seemingly control of the game as they took a 6 point cushion into the half. In the 3rd quarter it was all Sixers , as they rallied ahead by 3 with the score 65-62 heading into the 4th quarter. Finally in the 4th quarter they simply held off the T-Wolves until they had won by 8, with the final score 96-88. So the Sixers improve to 37-33 overall but remain 6th in the eastern conference, now just .5 games behind the 5th place Miami Heat, who lost tonight.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Top 5 Emotionally charged moments involving Philly sports figures
Since there is so little to talk about today I thought I would present a top 5 list to pass the time. One of the most prevalent aspects of sports is emotion. Whether it is laughter, contempt, joy, or agony, you can seldom watch a sporting event without feeling some sort of emotion. Here now i present to you the top 5 moments involving philly sports figures, that will bring a tear to your eyes.
5. Tearful T.O
Following a stunning loss to the eventual super bowl champion NY Giants in a 2007 NFC divisional playoff, T.O breaks down in tears in defense of QB Tony Romo, as he stammers "That's my quarterback you're talking about" sniffle, sniffle, "That's my quarterback".
4. Rocky Stuns Drago
Was it really only a movie? Using sheer guts and determination Rocky defeats Soviet Goliath Ivan Drago in an 1985 bout, than emotionally exclaims to the soviet crowds afterwards, "I saw a lot of hate from you when I first got here, but now I feel a lot of love. If you can change, I can change, we all can change". 4 years later the walls at last come down in Berlin as Communism falls. Nice going Rock.
3. Tug Closes the Vet.
Dying of brain cancer, Tug Mcgraw ends the closing ceremonies at veterans stadium and thus the Phils final day at the vet with one last simulation of his world series winning pitch complete with a call by Harry Kalas. Afterwards he and a legion of all former Phils greats who had played at the stadium from 1971-2003, take a last lap around field to salute the fans. There is not a dry eye in the house.
2. This is for Joey
After a stalwart 1973 season at running back for Penn State, Monsignor Bonner HS's own John Capelletti wins the heisman trophy. Upon accepting the trophy he tearfully dedicates it to his younger brother Joey who is dying of Leukemia. We Are Penn State.
1. One for Hank
Playing for Loyola Marymount, In the 1990 NCAA tournament Ex Philly HS basketball star and righthanded Bo Kimble shoots every one his opening free throw attempts lefthanded in honor of fallen teammate Hank Gathers and sinks each one. The 11th seeded Lions go on to surprise everyone, reaching the regional final before finally ending their emotional run. As a fan's sign reads during one game, Hank is indeed with them all along the way.
5. Tearful T.O
Following a stunning loss to the eventual super bowl champion NY Giants in a 2007 NFC divisional playoff, T.O breaks down in tears in defense of QB Tony Romo, as he stammers "That's my quarterback you're talking about" sniffle, sniffle, "That's my quarterback".
4. Rocky Stuns Drago
Was it really only a movie? Using sheer guts and determination Rocky defeats Soviet Goliath Ivan Drago in an 1985 bout, than emotionally exclaims to the soviet crowds afterwards, "I saw a lot of hate from you when I first got here, but now I feel a lot of love. If you can change, I can change, we all can change". 4 years later the walls at last come down in Berlin as Communism falls. Nice going Rock.
3. Tug Closes the Vet.
Dying of brain cancer, Tug Mcgraw ends the closing ceremonies at veterans stadium and thus the Phils final day at the vet with one last simulation of his world series winning pitch complete with a call by Harry Kalas. Afterwards he and a legion of all former Phils greats who had played at the stadium from 1971-2003, take a last lap around field to salute the fans. There is not a dry eye in the house.
2. This is for Joey
After a stalwart 1973 season at running back for Penn State, Monsignor Bonner HS's own John Capelletti wins the heisman trophy. Upon accepting the trophy he tearfully dedicates it to his younger brother Joey who is dying of Leukemia. We Are Penn State.
1. One for Hank
Playing for Loyola Marymount, In the 1990 NCAA tournament Ex Philly HS basketball star and righthanded Bo Kimble shoots every one his opening free throw attempts lefthanded in honor of fallen teammate Hank Gathers and sinks each one. The 11th seeded Lions go on to surprise everyone, reaching the regional final before finally ending their emotional run. As a fan's sign reads during one game, Hank is indeed with them all along the way.
PHILLIES NEWS
Chan Ho Park allowed 3 runs on on 4 hits in 4 innings of work, and Chase Utley homered and drove in 3 runs, to help the Phils defeat the Blue Jays 7-6. Hopefully, this means Chase is ready for the season, and won't need to miss any games.
Monday, March 23, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers at last finished off their west coast road trip tonight in Portland in a thriller with the Blazers. Coming in only 6 teams could claim wins at the Rose Garden, and the chances of the Sixers ,playing on back to back nights, of joining those ranks were slim. Thanks to sheer guts and determination the Sixers beat the odds and toughed out a win, to finish the road trip 3-2. Andre Iguodala and Thaddeus Young each had 25, and Andre Miller dropped 27 to fuel the Sixers offense, which was red hot again at 51% from the field. Defensively, it was a team effort, and a good one in the first half, and good when it needed to be in the 2nd half, but mostly Portland just had a poor shooting night, and made some bad decisions at the wrong the times. The Sixers came out firing early, shooting nearly 80% at one point in the first quarter, but the incredible offensive rebounding of the Blazers kept the Sixers from pulling away, and they could only take a 14 point lead into the half, with the score 58-44. In the 3rd quarter it was Portland who came out firing, as they seemed poised to steal the game away from the Sixers. Somehow, the Sixers managed to slow things down enough to withstand the charge, even after Rudy Fernandez went off for 8 points early in the 4th quarter to put Portland back ahead. Thanks to clutch free throws down the stretch by Andre Iguodala, and perfect defense by Royal Ivey against Brandon Roy, as his buzzer beater fell short, the Sixers managed to force overtime. There Sammy Dalembert blocked Roy late in the period, and then Roy turned it over on the next Portland possession to finally allow the Sixers to push ahead for good. Finally after sinking their free throws down the stretch the Sixers had hung on for an impressive 114-108 win. So the Sixers move to 36-33 overall, but remain 6th in the Eastern conference, 1.5 games behind the 5th Heat.
FLYERS NEWS
After a huge win over the Penguins yesterday afternoon, the Flyers came back down the road to the Wachovia center as they welcomed the New Jersey Devils to town for an even bigger game. Once again Marty Biron put forth a dazzling effort, outdueling the other Marty, Brodeur, with 32 saves out of the 34 shots he faced. Meanwhile Simon Gagne had a goal and a pair of assists to lead the Flyers attack. Brendan Shanahan scored early in the first period for a 1-0 Devils lead. Then late in the period Danny Briere scored off the power play to knot it up at 1. Early in the 2nd period Mike Knuble scored off the power play again for a 2-1 lead. A few minutes later Jamie Langenbrunner scored to knot it up at 2 again. Just seconds into the 3rd quarter Jeff Carter scored yet another power play goal for a 3-1 lead. A few minutes later Gagne scored for a 4-1 lead. From there Biron shut down the Devils and Flyers went on to hang on for the 4-2 win . So the Orange and Black move to 40-22-10 overall for 90 points and still 4th in the Eastern conference, now 3 points clear of the 5th place Hurricanes and 7 points behind the Atlantic division leading Devils, keeping their slim division title hopes alive for now.
PHILLIES NEWS
J.A Happ continued to impress today, allowing just one run on 5 hits, as Matt Stairs and Miguel Cairo homered, Eric Bruntlett and Raul Ibanez collected 3 hits and Phils beat the Yankees 8-3. In other news Kyle Kendrick was optioned off to triple A today, meaning he is out of the running for the 5th spot in the Phils rotation, which leaves Happ, Chan Ho Park, and young Carlos Carrasco to battle out. Finally in some somber news, Curt Schilling announced his retirement today. With 3116 strikeouts, 216 wins, a 3.46 ERA, and the best ever postseason record for a starting pitcher, he could be on his way to cooperstown in about 5 years. For the Phils he was irrefutably their best pitcher in the 90s, a decade full of bad Phillies pitching, save for one unforgettable year. Unfortunately, thanks to a certain foolhardy GM, thanks a lot Ed, many of his best years, and postseason heroics, came in a different uniform. Perhaps if he had been able to stay around, the Phils would have more than one ring in the last 25 years.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
After completely overlooking the Oklahoma City Thunder in a surprise loss earlier season, the Sixers made sure history didn't repeat itself tonight as they continued their road trip in Sacramento against the lowly Kings. They had their best shooting day of the season thus far, shooting 59% from the field and 53% from beyond the arc. The young kings conversely, shot just 43% from the field, and turned the ball over 19 times. As a result it was never a close game. The Sixers rolled to an 18 point lead after a quarter of play, and never looked back. Heading into the 4th quarter with Andre Iguodala posting 27 and Thaddeus Young dropping 22, they were still leading by 21, and so the starters pretty much sat out the final quarter. With backups on the court the Sixers easily held off a final charge by the Kings to win by 112-100. So the Sixers move to 35-33 overall, but remain 1.5 games behind the Heat for 5th.
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers traveled up the road to Pittsburgh this afternoon for a key matchup with the Penguins, who came in tied with the Flyers for 4th in the Eastern conference. Thanks to their best defensive performance of the season so far, and 27, at times spectacular, saves by Marty Biron the Flyers were able to hold off the Pens for a huge win. Early in the first period Simon Gagne scored for a 1-0 lead. Early in the 2nd period Scott Hartnell scored for a 2-0 lead. Late in the 3rd period Chris Letang scored off the power play to cut it to 2-1. The Pens then pulled goalie Marc Andre Fleury in a desperate attempt to tie it up late, but Darrell Powe scored on the open net with about 30 seconds to play to close out a 3-1 Flyer's victory. So the Orange and Black improve to 39-22-10 overall for 88 points and now 4th in the Eastern conference all by their lonesome.
PHILLIES NEWS
Brett Myers allowed just 2 runs on 2 hits in 5 innings of work, but Josh Beckett allowed 0 runs on just 4 hits in 5 innings , and the Phils fell to the Red Sox 3-0. Somtimes it's just not your day.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
PHILLIES NEWS
Kyle Kendrick allowed just 2 runs on 5 hits in 5 solid innings of work, but the Phils could score only run themselves, on Eric Bruntlett's solo homer in the 9th inning, as they fell 2-1 to the Minnesota Twins. Better luck next time I guess.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles agreed to a one year 2.5 million deal with Fullback Leonard Weaver yesterday. In other words for the first time in a few seasons the Eagles actually have a real fullback. It became pretty clear last season the just throwing anybody in there at fullback just doesn't cut it in the NFL anymore. So getting Weaver is a significant upgrade to the Eagle's offense and he should immediately help to improve to running game, assuming the Eagles can still figure out a way to put decent offensive line out there with him.
Friday, March 20, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers traveled to Buffalo tonight for a matchup with the Sabres. Marty Biron got the start in goal, he seems to be getting all of them lately, and was solid saving 39 of the 43 shots he faced. Meanwhile, Danny Briere scored twice, his first goals since the beginning of the season, to help the lead the Flyers to a win. Late in the first period Mike Richards scored off the power play for a 1-0 lead. Thomas Vanek and Dominic Moore each scored early in the 2nd period for a 2-1 Sabre's lead. Simon Gagne scored another power play goal to knot it up at 2 midway through the period. Late in the period Derek Roy put Buffalo back up 3-2. A few minutes later Briere scored his first to knot it up at 3. A few minutes later with just under 40 seconds left in the period Briere scored his 2nd for a 4-3 lead. Early in the 3rd period Mike Knuble scored for a 5-3 lead. Late in the period Jeff Carter made it 6-3. Finally with 2 seconds to play Chris Butler slapped one home to make the final score 6-4 Flyers. So the Orange and Black improve to 38-22-10 with 86 points overall and remain 4th in the Eastern conference.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers continued their west coast road trip tonight in Oakland against the Golden State Warriors. Once again there was ample scoring and little defense. Once again the Sixers could not keep up with the running and gunning Warriors as they dropped their 2nd game in a row. Golden State shot 56% from the field and 9 threes while the Sixers shot just 38% from the field and hit just 4 threes. Despite the poor shooting the Sixers actually still wound up with 7 scorers in double figures. So if they had shot anywhere near their percentage against the Suns they would have won this one. Instead it was the Warriors with the hot hand on the night, with a 6 point 62-56 lead at the half and a 12 point 91-79 lead heading into the 4th quarter. There, despite a late Sixer comeback attempt the Warriors eventually closed out an eight point 119-111 win. So the Sixers drop back to 34-33 overall but remain 6th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Carlos Carrasco went 4 and 2/3rd's innings allowing just 2 runs on 3 hits and Ryan Howard slammed a his 6th homerun of the spring thus, but the Phils could do no better than a 2-2 tie against the St.Louis Cardinals. Better luck next time I guess
Thursday, March 19, 2009
PHILLIES NEWS
Joe Blanton went 6 scoreless innings, allowing just 1 hit , as the Phils defeated the Florida Marlins 5-1. So the Phils just continue to look better and better each day of the spring.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers continued their west coast trip tonight as they traveled to Phoenix for a matchup with Shaq and the Suns. They were looking for their 5th consecutive victory and had a golden opportunity to move to within a half a game of 5th place in the Eastern conference, as the Heat had lost earlier before they took the court. Not surprisingly with two teams who like to run, playing each other, there was lots of scoring and very little defense. The Sixers themselves, shot 54% from the field,and 47% from beyond the arc but it was not enough, for they simply could not keep pace with the Suns explosive offense. For 3 quarters they managed to stay with them, and actually led by 3 at half, and trailed by just 2 heading into the 4th quarter with the score 93-91. Then in the 4th quarter the wear and tear of playing two nights in a row, finally caught up with the Sixers, as the Suns pulled away to win by 10 with final score 126-116. So the Sixers drop to 34-32 overall and remain 6th in the Eastern conference, 1.5 games behind the Heat for 5th.
PHILLIES NEWS
J.A Happ allowed 3 runs on 3 hits in 4 innings of work, Jayson Werth slammed a 3 run homer, and Chase Utley collected his first hit of the spring, but it all went for naught as the Phils tied the Toronto Blue Jays 7-7. So Happ seems to be a a pretty good candidate for that 5th spot as well.
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers began a tough west coast trip tonight in L.A against Kobe and Lakers. After a stringing together 3 consecutive wins over the weekend the Sixers were looking to win their 4th in a row for the first time in a while. Despite trailing most of the way the Sixers were able to keep it close thanks in large apart again to Donyell Marshall who went a perfect 3 for 3 from beyond the arc in more rare action. Then in the 4th quarter they did something they don't usually, they found a way to win against a better team. Perhaps that win over Miami wasn't such a fluke after all. Offensively, Andre Iguodala led the way with 25 points, including some clutch baskets down the stretch. Sammy Dalembert was also impressive offensively, with 8 offensive rebounds and defensively, with 14 rebounds overall and 2 blocks. Early on the Lakers took a 4 point lead, but the Sixers held steady and by the half it was all knotted it up at 50. In the 3rd quarter the Lakers seemed primed to blow away the Sixers, rolling to an 11 point lead heading into the 4th quarter with the score 73-62. Still, the Sixers found away to get back in the game and with 7 seconds to play they trailed by just two with the score 93-91. Iggy took the inbounds pass moved to within 25 feet and calmy sunk his only three pointer of the day to beat buzzer for a stunning 94-93 Sixer victory. So the Sixers move to 34-31 overall, remain 6th in the conference and move to within 1.5 games of 5th place Miami.
FLYERS NEWS
For two periods the Flyers gave the Detroit Red Wings all they could handle at Detroit. Unfortunately, after a ridiculous 36 saves through the first two periods Marty Biron ran out of miracles in the 3rd period. Although he did wind up with an impressive 45 saves, his teammates let him down big time, failing to score in the 3rd period. Late in the first period Scott Hartnell scored for a 1-0 lead. Early in the 2nd period Joffrey Lupul scored for a 2-0 lead. Late in the period Pavel Datsyuk scored to bring Detroit back within 1 at 2-1. Midway through the 3rd period Johan Franzen scored to knot it up at 2. A couple minutes later Henrick Zetterberg scored to put Detroit up 3-2. From there the Flyer's had their chances but could not pull back even and eventually succumbed 3-2 to the Red Wings. So the Orange and Black drop to 37-22-10 overall and are now tied with the Penguins for 4th in the Eastern conference, but they hold the tiebreaker at the moment.
PHILLIES NEWS
Brett Myers went 5 and 2/3rd's scoreless innings, allowing ust 4 hits and Brad Lidge saw his first action of the spring, allowing one run on 2 hits in a non save situation in the 9th, as the Phils beat the Reds 8-1. In other scarier news Cole Hamels was sent back to Philly yesterday with a sore throwing arm, but fortunately tests did not reveal any structural damage, so it is just soreness and nothing more. Still, since his action will probably be limited for a while to let the soreness heal, there's a good chance Brett Myers may now be the opening day started for the phils yet again, so it's a good thing he pitched well today.
Monday, March 16, 2009
PHILLIES NEWS
Kyle Kendrick allowed 4 runs on 8 hits in 4 innings of work in a 12-0 loss to the New York Yankees. So he wasn't great, but he was at least a little bit better than in his last outing. So perhaps the competition for the 5th spot in the Phils rotation has spurred him on a little as well, but apparently not enough.
Sunday, March 15, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers completed their home stand this afternoon with a key matchup against Dwayne Wade and the Miami Heat. Fortunately the Heat went 3 overtimes last night so they were primed to fall to the Sixers. The Sixers were able to take advantage of the fatigued Heat, particularly in the 4th quarter when Miami managed only 9 points, ,just enough for a big win. Offensively, Andre Iguodala led the way with 21 points, and Thaddeus Young posted 17, but the man of the hour was Donyell Marshall, who drilled 3 threes and score 10 in rare minutes off the bench. Maybe he should play a little more often. Defensively, the Sixers had one of their best games in quite a while, against yes a tired Miami team , but anytime you can hold Dwayne Wade to 18 points you've done something. Still, it's tough to say if the Sixers would have won had Miami been at full steam. Anyway, the Sixers took an early 7 point lead after a quarter of play and still led by 3 at the half with the score 46-43. In the 3rd quarter Miami actually took a 7 point lead of their own with the score 68-61. The 4th quarter however, was all Sixers as they outscored the tired Heat 24-9 and ran off to an 8 point win with the final score 85-77. So the Sixers move to 2 games over .500 and 6th in the Eastern conference at 33-31 overall. They also move to within 2 games of the 5th place Heat.
FLYERS NEWS
This afternoon the Flyers completed a home and home with the Rangers at the garden. Unfortunately Marty Biron could not start on back to back days , leaving Antero Niittymaki in front of net for the afternoon and it cost the Flyers, as he saved 35 but allowed 4 goals. On the whole though it was the Flyers who seemed to be most affected by playing 2 days in a row, and appeared to have little left in the tank with just 25 shots on goal. Late in the 1st period Sean Avery scored for a 1-0 Ranger lead. Early in the 2nd period Simon Gagne scored to knot it up at 1. A few minutes later Nik Antropov scored for a 2-1 Ranger lead. Early in the 3rd period Avery scored again for a 3-1 lead. Finally late in the period Fredrik Sjostrom scored to put away the 4-1 Ranger victory. So the Flyers drop to 37-21-10 overall but remain 4th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Chan Ho Park went 4 and 2/3rd's shutout innings, allowing just 3 hits and striking out 6. Meanwhile Jayson Werth homered, and Chase Utley went 0 for 2 in his first game of the spring as the Phils defeated the Cardinals 2-1. So maybe Park is the guy who will start 5th in the Phils rotation.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the New York stinkin Rangers to the Wachovia center tonight for a key matchup. Marty Biron again got the start in goal and seemed to put a stranglehold on the position for now with 39 saves out of the 41 Shots he faced. Meanwhile, Aaron Asham scored twice to push the Flyers to a win. Early in the first period Nik Antropov scored for a 1-0 Ranger lead. Late in the period Scott Hartnell knotted it up at 1. Early in the 2nd period Mike Richards scored for a 2-1 lead. Eary in the 3rd period Asham scored his first for a 3-1 lead. Late in the period Asham scored his second for a 4-1 lead. Finally with just under 4 minutes to play Sean Avery scored a meaningless goal to cut the lead to the eventual final score 4-2. So the Orange and Black improve to 37-20-10 overall for 84 points and still 4th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Carlos Carrasco allowed just 2 runs over 4 innings while Greg Dobbs knocked in a couple of runs and Jayson Werth homered in a 5-2 Phils win over the Astros. So it looks like Carrasco might just be the answer at the end of the rotation after all.
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers returned to the Spectrum for the last time tonight for a matchup with the Chicago Bulls. Once again the Sixers were able to score easily, but their defense just wasn't that good. Thankfully, 25 points from Andre Iguodala, a career high 31 points from Thaddues Young, and 19 rebounds and 4 blocks from Sammy Dalembert was enough to hold off the Bulls, and send the Spectrum out on a high note. It was a pretty tight game throughout with the Sixes clinging to a 3 point lead at the half with the score 50-47. In the 3rd quarter the Sixers seemed to take control of the game pushing out to an 11 point lead with the score with 80-69. In the 4th quarter however, the Bulls rallied back and were within 1, with 22 seconds to play, but Sammy D blocked a Derrick Rose layup attempt springing Young for easy break away basket a 104-101 Sixers' lead. Ben Gordon then had one last chance to tie it with a three pointer, bus his desperate shot at the buzzer harmlessly rattled out. So the Sixers move back over .500 at 32-31 overall but remain 7th in the Eastern conference.
Friday, March 13, 2009
PHILLIES NEWS
Joe Blanton went 4 and 2/3rd's scorelesss innings, but it again it was not enough as the Phils fell to the Pirates 6-5. Still, if nothing else Blanton is showing that he's no one hit wonder or flash in the pan, as so star Phillies pitchers have been.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed Alexander Ovechkin and the Washington Capitals to the Wachovia center tonight. Marty Biron got another start in goal and was solid saving 28 of the 30 shots he faced. Unfortunately the Flyers themselves could only score one goal, as they went o for 4 on the power play and eventually the Caps would outlast them. Brooks Laich scored late in the 2nd period for a 1-0 Caps lead. Late in the 2nd period Mike Knuble finally put the Flyers on the board knotting it up at 1. A few minutes later Ovechkin himself put the Caps back ahead to stay 2-1. Thanks to the spectacular play of Jose Theodore that was enough for a Caps win. So the Orange and Black drop to 36-20-10 overall but remain 4th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Jamie Moyer allowed just 2 runs over 5 innings of work and Miguel Cairo collected 2 hits, but it was not enough in a 3-2 loss to the Tampa Bay Rays today. Still, it's good to see the old guy continuing to pitch well.
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
After an embarrassing loss to the Thunder in their last game the Sixers looked to rebound tonight as they welcomed the Toronto Raptors to the Wachovia center. Thanks to a career high 29 points out of Thaddeus Young and 19 and 13 rebounds out of Sammy Dalembert the Sixers were able to do just that. Offensively, they were on the mark shooting a blistering 56% from the field and getting to the free throw line 30 times. Defensively, they were slightly better than Toronto, which was enough against a Raptor's team that has struggled defensively all season. The two teams were actually tied at 19 after a quarter of play, but by the half the Sixers had sprinted out to a 17 point lead they would not relinquish. By the 4th quarter the lead was still 18 with the score 92-74. Finally in the 4th quarter, the Raptors made some inroads but it was too little too late, as the Sixers hung on to win by 9 with the final score 115-106. So the Sixers again move back to .500 at 31-31 overall but remain 7th in the Eastern conference.
EAGLES NEWS
The Eagles signed safety Rashad Baker to a one year deal today. In his 5 year career Baker has started just 4 games, but last season he had a career best 3 interceptions, most notably the game clinching interception against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which eventually wound up helping to send the Eagles to the playoffs after their blowout win over the Cowboys. Still, Baker is not likely to be anything but a special teams stalwart.
PHILLIES NEWS
Kyle Kendrick allowed 8 runs in just 2 innings in a 12-10 loss to the Braves today. At this point with his ERA over 14 it's hard to see him as the Phils 5th starter. He's going to have to improve big time over the rest of the spring.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
FLYERS NEWS
The Flyers welcomed the Buffalo Sabres to the Wachovia center tonight. Marty Biron got the start in goal and performed well saving 27 of the 29 shots he faced. Meanwhile, Jeff Carter and Scott Hartnell each scored 2 goals to lead the Flyers to victory. Early in the first period Maxim Afinogenov scored for a 1-0 Buffalo lead. Late in the period Hartnell scored his first to knot it up at 1. Just seconds into the 3rd period Carter scored his first for a 2-1 lead. A few minutes later Mike Richards scored off the power play for a 3-1 lead. A couple minutes later Carter scored his second for a 4-1 lead. Late in the period Hartnell scored his second to effectively put it away with the score 5-1. Finally with just under 2 minutes to play Jochen Hecht scored for the Sabres to cut the final score to 5-2. So the Orange and Black improve to 36-19-10 overall for 82 points and still 4th in the Eastern conference.
Monday, March 09, 2009
EAGLES NEWS
Another Eagle has left the nest. Tra Thomas signed a 3 year deal with the Jacksonville Jaguars today and thus his Eagle's career is over. So the Andrews' brothers will team up on the right side of the line, while on the left side the Eagles will have to find someone, probably in the draft, to team with Todd Heremans. Otherwise Winston Justice would have to start at left tackle. Let's just say Donovan Mcnabb probably still has nightmares about the last time that happened against the Giants and he was sacked 12 times.
PHILLIES NEWS
Ryan Howard slammed a solo homer, his 4th of the spring, and Cole Hamels went 2 and 2/3rd's innings allowing just 2 runs on 2 hits in an 8-4 loss to the Cincinnati Reds today. Sure they lost, but at least their stars, Howard and Hamels are looking pretty good.
Sunday, March 08, 2009
SIXERS NEWS
The Sixers traveled to Oklahoma City tonight for a matchup with the Thunder. After laying 110 points on the Grizzlies last night the Sixers were not quite as prodigious tonight. In fact they were totally off from beginning to end. Perhaps it was fatigue or maybe the Thunder actually played really good defense for once. Whatever the reason the Sixer's just never really got going on the offensive end in this one, shooting just 39% from and field, failing to even break 80, and posting just 9 assists to 20 turnovers . The Thunder for their part were solid defensively, outrebounding the Sixers 41-33, racking up 12 steals, and doing all this without an injured Kevin Durant. The Sixers had the lead early by 6 with the score 24-18. Then the Thunder took over in the 2nd quarter and found themselves up by 12 at the half with the score 48-36. From there the Sixers never managed to get back in the game and the Thunder eventually went on to win by 15 with the final score 89-74. So the Sixers drop back under .500 at 30-31 overall but remain 7th in the Eastern conference.
PHILLIES NEWS
Joe Blanton went 4 innings today, in his first start of the spring, allowing just 1 run on 4 hits in a 7-2 loss to the Atlanta Braves. Apparently Blanton is picking up right where he left off.
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