by John D. Staff
About three years ago I wrote an article about Joe Persinger, a struggling musician who retired from the music business. A little prematurely if you ask me, but I digress. I was at the former site of his retirement announcement a month ago, and was curious where I could find the retired musician, and see what he is up to these days.
It took a few months to put things together, but we decided on a date to meet and discuss the last three years, and how his life has changed since. At this point it was late spring, and when I had hung up the phone we had set a date for September 3, 2012.
We met at a bar in a large hotel in Reno, Nevada late in the afternoon. As I waited, I noticed there was a peculiar crowd in town. It almost looked as if Reno has been taken over by the 1960's San Fransisco "Hippie Movement". I watched as one gentlemen walked passed me wearing nothing but a Speedo, another wearing a tutu and a large pinked feathered boa. I'm pretty sure at one point, there was a group of 20 people dressed up as bees talking about heading to pool for the "after-party".
Quite the scene.
As I turned around to ask the bartender for Pepsi, a man grabbed me on my left shoulder and greeted me with a hug. As we pulled away, it was the lone rocker himself, Joe Persinger. Mutton chops lined the sides of his face and his long hair curled at the ends. Easily, 10 pounds heavier from his
axe-wielding days.
He still bares no wedding ring. His hair is as long is it has ever been, and his counter-culture experiment seemed to have blown up in his face. There is something that he seemed to be weighing on his mind.
As the small talked commenced, he beamed about all his time off and what it has allowed him to do.
"I spent a lot of time in the southwest and became an even bigger sports fan. I started a small blog about various sports subjects. It mostly focused on Chicago sports, but it was a nice change of pace. It was just another form of artistic expression, I guess."
I was curious and tempted to shift the conversation toward the environment around us. The music blasting from the pool area was now bleeding into the bar every time the pool door opened. The oddly dressed persons are now wondering from the bar to the pool. Some even acknowledging the former musician. Once the urge passed, I decided to begin the interview.
The next few paragraphs of this article was going to spotlight the conversation that took place, but I just couldn't help notice what was going on around us.
The pool and pool area had now filled with so many people, they were spilling into the bar. Hotel security and it's staff were rushing to clear the pool area to allow more flexibility amongst the crowd. It was like a sea of freaks dressed from (almost) nothing, to weird looking vests, feather, flowers, and various other underground fashion that I have never been exposed to.
I asked the former lead singer "What the hell is going on here?"
"Burning Man just ended. This is the 'After-Burn' party..."
He explained to me what this art (really!?! Art!?!) festival was, to which I could not comprehend.
I began to wonder if this is what he has been up to these last few years. Embracing an underground society that shuns commodification and any type of capitalistic venture (accept possibly it's own, but I'm still trying to figure that out). He was an artist under the umbrella of a conglomerate that stood for everything this sub-society exists against. I was now really curious.
"I really tried to embrace this whole Burning Man culture. It seemed....genuine at first and I really wanted to see it for myself. My first year was 2011 and I had a blast. Everyone seemed into it that year, and the culture really seemed to be accepted by all."
"How was this year?"
"Not...the...same. I'll never go back."
I was not expecting that. There was a small pause that took place between us while I composed myself to try to redirect where I was taking this interview now. It was clear he didn't want me to pry any further.
Every so often while we were speaking, I would catch Joe gazing out toward the pool looking at the large stage built at the rear end of the pool plaza and smile.
"Have you been keeping tabs on the music industry? Talked to any of your old 'work buddies'?"
"Not really. I've been so detached that I couldn't even tell you what is what and who is who. TV just seems saturated in singing competition shows, which only translate to saturating the music market, if you ask me, absolute crap. When I started to notice 'Country' was the new 'Pop Music',
I........"
He was cut off by a pack of hippies. All half naked, wearing fur in unorthodox places, all their bodies painted, and they all smelled like Twinkies and alcohol. They begged him to follow them out to the pool.
The pack of girls led him through the sea of people and he disappeared around the corridor. The next time I saw him, he emerged from the large stage by the pool and the crowd was going nuts. There was some kind of dialogue taking place so I pushed my way to the pool area and started taking notes.
A jam started to take place.
It was like watching a man ride a bike for the first time since he received his driver's licence. The first thing I noticed, Persinger still has all that passion flowing through his veins. He began to add vocals to the jam, singing a melody that was harmonized with the lead guitar. When the lead guitar took over, he backed off and seemed to jam by himself taking in every moment.
Then the jam ended.
The crowd wanted more. The look in his eye suggested he wanted to appease them, but he was just soaking it in. Basking in the spotlight and the cheers of the crowd one last time like an athlete who was walking off the field of play one last time.
He walked to the mic, and to my surprise addressed the crowd. This is where things just took a wild and unexpected turn.
"WHAT A CROWD!! (cheering).....(more cheering)....You guys are great. I've spent some time away from the mainstream spotlight over the last few years. I got to look at my environment from another perspective and get a general direction of where things should go from here. Inspiration is a wacky thing. With it, you have all this energy that needs to be channeled. And based on a person's form of expression, is how this inspiration will be delegated to whatever source that person has to create from that inspiration. That is where Art is born. And I'm not talking about that guy over there in the front row that needs to put his pants on (crowd laughs. No word if 'Art' ever put his pants on). But inspiration, like most things, expires in time and in some cases, never feels like it's going to come back. But I will call it like it is. I just gave up. I quit. I was frustrated with the direction some people were taking and didn't feel the need to feed the capitalistic beast that was destroying our economy. As time has passed, things change. People change. Circumstances change. My two trips to Black Rock City these past (two) summers have left me in awe. They were a great two weeks spent, and they brought me a gift that I lost years ago. Inspiration. It sparked the fire that keeps the coals that burning and the passion flowing. And then I received a phone call....."
This is where my reporter's sixth instinct started buzzing. A phone call? He never mentioned a phone while I was vetting him twenty minutes ago. I made my way closer through the crowd trying not to disturb to many people. He continued.
"It was Marc Quatraro. We discussed our different paths over the years and listened to some of our old work. We started by listening to the 'Funked Up Soul' library and then moved onto our first project which was an equal collaborative effort. The 'what if's' started flowing, and that evolved into 'what could be' and that brings me here. To everyone out there, I thank you for being a part of this moment in my life, and I look forward to serving you as a musician, but mostly, as an artist who bares his heart on his chest. Thank you!"
He walked off the stage. I ran back to the table we were at before all this madness started, but he was not there, nor was he coming back. I tried numerous times to follow up what we started, but I basically got the "you got what you need routine". Can't complain about that I guess.
So there you go.
What was suppose to be a follow up piece ends up turning into Joe Persinger's comeback piece. How does he plan on doing this?? When will we see him playing again publicly?
I did receive a direct message (private messages on twitter) from the rock-star that explained we will most likely see something from this modern-retro duo by the first of the year.
In the meantime, he is actively on twitter (@BrewMastrJoe) tweeting about sports still. His timeline mentions that there will be some sort of format change in the next four weeks or so.
It must all begin at some point in October.
Sunday, September 23, 2012
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
Lovie on the Hot Seat? I dont think so...
by Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe
I've noticed over the last few months Love Smith isn't in possession of a high approval rating amongst all NFL fans. As I dug further into this, I found there was a small minority (maybe more) of Bears fans who also have allowed Lovie to fall out of their graces.
But why?
One of the biggest knocks on Lovie is that he has gone through his fare share of personnel staff. He even had to fire himself once as defensive coordinator before bringing in Rob Marinelli. Outside of this what could be the problem?
When the Bears brought in Lovie in 2004 it only took him 3 seasons to get the team to win the NFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl. They lost to the Colts that year and entered the 2007 with a lot of optimism.
There was one problem.
A lackluster offense and the drafting skills of GM Jerry Angelo finally caught up with the team. Ron Riviera departed and they were left with 1rst round busts and a mediocre defense.
3 seasons (2007, 2008, 2009) were disappointing that brought despair on Bear's fans. None of those teams that Lovie coached dropped under 7 wins (accept in 2004, when they went
5-11), and just missed the playoffs in 2008. Had they won against the Falcons and the Texans in 2008, they most likely would have made the post-season.
When Jerry Angelo flexed his GM muscles and acquired Jay Cutler from the fire sale in Denver, the storied franchise in Chicago's trend was on the up and up.
They went 11-5 in 2010 and lost the NFC Championship to their rival the Green Bay Packers. Again, Lovie and the Bears were trending up until finding out earlier this year that our GM had allowed the game to pass him by.
I don't understand why, but a lot of what was Angelo's fault has fallen on Lovie's shoulders. He didn't do anything wrong.
When they first brought in Lovie, I was really skeptical due to his lack of emotion. He is stone faced, and no matter what is going on, good or bad, he has the same expression.
Then I grew up as an NFL fan.
The "over-emotional head-coach" is over-rated. Ditka has made his living off that personality and some Chicago fans love it. They must think it's part of the game.
It's just not Lovie Smith's personality.
Lovie enters his first season with new GM Phil Emery. Emery will keep Lovie for this season, but the Bear's head coach is fair game next off-season.
Emery is a smart guy. He knows Lovie is a successful NFL head coach and had led this team with class through the good years and bad.
Lovie, like Jay Cutler, has been surrounded by talent. Given the staff that he has wanted, Lovie has to continue to coach this team to victory, showing he has the continuity to be the Bears head coach.
@BrewMastrJoe
I've noticed over the last few months Love Smith isn't in possession of a high approval rating amongst all NFL fans. As I dug further into this, I found there was a small minority (maybe more) of Bears fans who also have allowed Lovie to fall out of their graces.But why?
One of the biggest knocks on Lovie is that he has gone through his fare share of personnel staff. He even had to fire himself once as defensive coordinator before bringing in Rob Marinelli. Outside of this what could be the problem?
When the Bears brought in Lovie in 2004 it only took him 3 seasons to get the team to win the NFC Championship and a trip to the Super Bowl. They lost to the Colts that year and entered the 2007 with a lot of optimism.
There was one problem.
A lackluster offense and the drafting skills of GM Jerry Angelo finally caught up with the team. Ron Riviera departed and they were left with 1rst round busts and a mediocre defense.
3 seasons (2007, 2008, 2009) were disappointing that brought despair on Bear's fans. None of those teams that Lovie coached dropped under 7 wins (accept in 2004, when they went
5-11), and just missed the playoffs in 2008. Had they won against the Falcons and the Texans in 2008, they most likely would have made the post-season.
When Jerry Angelo flexed his GM muscles and acquired Jay Cutler from the fire sale in Denver, the storied franchise in Chicago's trend was on the up and up.
They went 11-5 in 2010 and lost the NFC Championship to their rival the Green Bay Packers. Again, Lovie and the Bears were trending up until finding out earlier this year that our GM had allowed the game to pass him by.
I don't understand why, but a lot of what was Angelo's fault has fallen on Lovie's shoulders. He didn't do anything wrong.
When they first brought in Lovie, I was really skeptical due to his lack of emotion. He is stone faced, and no matter what is going on, good or bad, he has the same expression. Then I grew up as an NFL fan.
The "over-emotional head-coach" is over-rated. Ditka has made his living off that personality and some Chicago fans love it. They must think it's part of the game.
It's just not Lovie Smith's personality.
Lovie enters his first season with new GM Phil Emery. Emery will keep Lovie for this season, but the Bear's head coach is fair game next off-season.
Emery is a smart guy. He knows Lovie is a successful NFL head coach and had led this team with class through the good years and bad.
Lovie, like Jay Cutler, has been surrounded by talent. Given the staff that he has wanted, Lovie has to continue to coach this team to victory, showing he has the continuity to be the Bears head coach.
Thursday, August 9, 2012
Chicago Bears 2012 Offense "Over"/"Under"
by Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
There is such a bitter-sweet feeling for me every time the month of July starts to come to a close. It signifies the beginning's end of another summer. Generally around this time baseball fans are engaged in MLB Hot Stove talk and it's usually about this time of the year if you know your team is going anywhere. But as the excitement of baseball is talked about, the dreading of summer's end draws to a near, I'm reminded why this is my favorite time of the year.
Football.
Yes, football.
The NFL players begin to report to training camp for the perspective teams and begin a (what used to be) grueling two weeks preparing for the grind of a regular season. With the Bear's heading into camp with high expectations (especially offensively) I decided to set some Over/Under's for Bear's newly formed "high-powered" offense.
The letters in parenthesis represent if the player will achieve the over (O) or under (U).
Matt Forte
After a tumultuous off-season with a franchise tag and bitter contract disputes, Matt Forte is returning as the Bear's starting RB for another 4 years.
The NFC North defensive secondaries ranked in the bottom half of the league. With a loaded WR corps and Forte coming out of the backfield, the Bear's star RB can be dangerous pass threat if not game planned for properly.
Will his lack of attendance from OTA's affect his on-field production? Based on these Over/Under's being set, it doesn't seem so.
Rush Yards: 1,100 (O)
Rush TDs: 6 (U)
Rec Yards: 500 (U)
The Bear's offensive line struggled in pass protection, but thrived in run protection. Forte ran for 997 yards last year, and over 1,000 yards the year before. Given the additions to the offense, it's more likely Forte will be on the "Over" side of 1,100 yards. Now with Mike Tice calling plays, and the Bear's having a dangerous pass attack, look for another stellar year for the Bear's starting RB. I don't expect to see a lot of Forte in goal line situations, I think that role will go the back-up Michael Bush.
Michael Bush
Drafted 4rth overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2007, Michael Bush signed with the Bear's this off-season. Brought in as an insurance policy for the "Matt Forte" fiasco, his career 21 rushing TDs will provide the Bears with a legitimate red zone rushing threat, and will improve the depth at the running back position.
Rush Yards: 450 (O)
Rush TDs: 7 (O)
Bush likes to think of himself as more of a multi-purpose/all down running back rather than a 3rd down battering ram. The Bear's are paying the former Oakland Raider a guaranteed of $7 million, so he is likely to see some significant playing time. I love Bush in this role and believe he will break the 450 yards mark. If the Bear's can get 500+ yards out of Bush, and another 1,000+ out of Forte, this offense will have a whole other dimension that will require teams to prepare for the run and the pass.
Jay Cutler
This will be the year all the eyes are on Jay Cutler. For the first time in his short Chicago Bear's career, he has been surrounded with loads of talent at wide receiver and running back.
His reunion with QB coach Jeremy Bates and number one wide receiver Brandon Marshall will also aide in Jay's perseverance. The right playbook and all this new talent surrounding Cutler, will he flourish in this new offense?
Pass Yards: 4,200 (O)
Pass TDs: 30 (O)
INT: 13 (U)
Pro Bowl: No
Through training camp the question has been: what kind offense is this? On an interview with Waddle and Silvy (ESPN 1000) he stated that the playbook is a mix of run plays from last year, a mix of pass plays from the Denver days with Marshall and Bates, and also has some west coast elements to it. One of the biggest changes being made is audibles. This is where were going to see the Cutler and Marshall chemistry flourish. With plenty of weapons, Cutler will easily be on the "Over" side of pass yards, and I believe the system will assist in that outcome as well. I'm taking the "Under" on touchdown passes. Tom Brady has only thrown 30+ touchdowns 3 times in his career and he did it with a great offensive line and wide receiver corps.
Since the Bear's have so many targets on offense most secondaries are going to be spread thin. Since they won't have the luxury of stacking up on Earl Bennet or Devin Hester, mistakes that lead to interceptions will be fewer than they have been in the last few seasons. The NFC is a hard conference to be a pro-bowl QB and it says a lot, beating out Eli Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, and company. If the Bear's had an offensive line, I could confidently say that Jay Cutler has a chance to be a pro-bowl QB. I wouldn't mind being wrong on this one.
Brandon Marshall
Traded to the Bears this off-season for two 3rd round draft picks and reunited with his former teammate Jay Cutler, Marshall looks to another change of scenery in hopes of greener pastures. For the first time in my life, the Bears will have a legitimate pro-bowl wide receiver, and a QB who is on the verge of breaking through the glass ceiling (due to a lackluster offense) that has plagued him the last three seasons.
No matter who has been throwing Marshall "the pill" he has been putting up pro-bowl numbers. With something to prove and nothing to lose, will the Cutler-Marshall dynamic duo lead to past success'?
Rec: 95 (O)
Rec Yards: 1,250 (O)
TDs: 9 (U)
Marshall is the first true number one wide receiver this franchise has had in it's entire existence. His presence alone will creates match-up problems for almost all NFL secondaries, and allow the Bear's offense to attack defenses in multi-faceted ways. Considering the liberties Tice is giving Cutler, BMarsh will most likely surpass 100 receptions as he did in Denver with Jay and company. In his two seasons with Cutler, BMarsh caught 1,325 yards in 2007 and 1,265 in 2008. And that's when they looked like they were "just running around" on the field. BMarsh will also be a legitimate red-zone threat the Bear's have never had (not to mention having another one in Alshon Jeffery on the other side), but since he will draw most of the coverage to his side, I don't see him catching too many touchdowns. He has only caught 10 touchdowns once in his career, and that was in 2009 when "Neckbeard" (Kyle Orton) was slinging "the pill" (no not that pill) in Denver.
Earl Bennet
Drafted by the Bear's in 2008, Bennet has proven to be a solid slot receiver and a favorite target for former Vanderbilt teammate Jay Cutler. That might change slightly this year as Brandon Marshall has been thrown in the mix, but only for the better. Now with Marshall lined up on the outside, this will force safeties to play Marshall more leaving Earl in more one-on-one match ups.
Rec: 53 (U)
Rec Yards: 700 (U)
TDs: 4 (O)
Earl has only had 50 receptions once in his career and that was back in 2009 when the Bear's receiving corps depth was so shallow, Devin Hester was considered the number one receiver. I don't expect him to match that capacity, but he will receive his fair share of the football. Cutler will have plenty of options this season and with Earl in the slot, it's not an out of the question assessment that 700 yards could be attained. But with the additions made in the off season, and depending on the use of "the Hester package", I think Earl's value will be found more in the end-zone and over the middle routes. If there is one player I hope I'm wrong about, it's definitely Earl.
Devin Hester
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After making the switch to the Bear's number one wide receiver in 2009, Hester began to see a steady decline in his kick/punt return duties. As a byproduct to the new additions to the wide receiver corps, Hester will see a lesser role, but will star in what Mike Tice has dubbed "The Hester Package".
What exactly this is, no one knows. Whatever it is, it will most likely take advantage of the depth the Bears have a WR leaving Hester in more one-on-one situations, and forcing a defense to "pick it's poison".
Rec: 35 (O)
Rec Yards: 650 (O)
TDs: 4 (U)
Hester has indirectly made it known he wasn't a Mike Martz fan, as Martz didn't really find unique ways to use such a unique talent. Mike Tice has made it known through training camp there will be a "Hester Package" available for the offense to use that will feature the speedy former Miami Hurricane player. So it's safe to say, he will have the football thrown his way more this season versus what he has seen in the past. Most of Hester's production has come from the Bears stretching the field vertically, and using his speed coming out of the backfield or on check down plays. Since most secondaries are going to be focused on the two big guys on the outside, Earl in the slot, and keeping an eye on Forte in the backfield, Hester has the potential to make big plays. It isn't really public knowledge, but most teams do not fear Hester as wide receiver. But in the right package, with the right personnel, Hester can be that pivotal player that opens up the defense enough to stretch them vertically or catch them off-guard and create something out of nothing.
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
There is such a bitter-sweet feeling for me every time the month of July starts to come to a close. It signifies the beginning's end of another summer. Generally around this time baseball fans are engaged in MLB Hot Stove talk and it's usually about this time of the year if you know your team is going anywhere. But as the excitement of baseball is talked about, the dreading of summer's end draws to a near, I'm reminded why this is my favorite time of the year.
Football.
Yes, football.
The NFL players begin to report to training camp for the perspective teams and begin a (what used to be) grueling two weeks preparing for the grind of a regular season. With the Bear's heading into camp with high expectations (especially offensively) I decided to set some Over/Under's for Bear's newly formed "high-powered" offense.
The letters in parenthesis represent if the player will achieve the over (O) or under (U).
Matt Forte
After a tumultuous off-season with a franchise tag and bitter contract disputes, Matt Forte is returning as the Bear's starting RB for another 4 years. The NFC North defensive secondaries ranked in the bottom half of the league. With a loaded WR corps and Forte coming out of the backfield, the Bear's star RB can be dangerous pass threat if not game planned for properly.
Will his lack of attendance from OTA's affect his on-field production? Based on these Over/Under's being set, it doesn't seem so.
Rush Yards: 1,100 (O)
Rush TDs: 6 (U)
Rec Yards: 500 (U)
The Bear's offensive line struggled in pass protection, but thrived in run protection. Forte ran for 997 yards last year, and over 1,000 yards the year before. Given the additions to the offense, it's more likely Forte will be on the "Over" side of 1,100 yards. Now with Mike Tice calling plays, and the Bear's having a dangerous pass attack, look for another stellar year for the Bear's starting RB. I don't expect to see a lot of Forte in goal line situations, I think that role will go the back-up Michael Bush.
Michael Bush
Drafted 4rth overall by the Oakland Raiders in 2007, Michael Bush signed with the Bear's this off-season. Brought in as an insurance policy for the "Matt Forte" fiasco, his career 21 rushing TDs will provide the Bears with a legitimate red zone rushing threat, and will improve the depth at the running back position.Rush Yards: 450 (O)
Rush TDs: 7 (O)
Bush likes to think of himself as more of a multi-purpose/all down running back rather than a 3rd down battering ram. The Bear's are paying the former Oakland Raider a guaranteed of $7 million, so he is likely to see some significant playing time. I love Bush in this role and believe he will break the 450 yards mark. If the Bear's can get 500+ yards out of Bush, and another 1,000+ out of Forte, this offense will have a whole other dimension that will require teams to prepare for the run and the pass.
Jay Cutler
This will be the year all the eyes are on Jay Cutler. For the first time in his short Chicago Bear's career, he has been surrounded with loads of talent at wide receiver and running back. His reunion with QB coach Jeremy Bates and number one wide receiver Brandon Marshall will also aide in Jay's perseverance. The right playbook and all this new talent surrounding Cutler, will he flourish in this new offense?
Pass Yards: 4,200 (O)
Pass TDs: 30 (O)
INT: 13 (U)
Pro Bowl: No
Through training camp the question has been: what kind offense is this? On an interview with Waddle and Silvy (ESPN 1000) he stated that the playbook is a mix of run plays from last year, a mix of pass plays from the Denver days with Marshall and Bates, and also has some west coast elements to it. One of the biggest changes being made is audibles. This is where were going to see the Cutler and Marshall chemistry flourish. With plenty of weapons, Cutler will easily be on the "Over" side of pass yards, and I believe the system will assist in that outcome as well. I'm taking the "Under" on touchdown passes. Tom Brady has only thrown 30+ touchdowns 3 times in his career and he did it with a great offensive line and wide receiver corps.
Since the Bear's have so many targets on offense most secondaries are going to be spread thin. Since they won't have the luxury of stacking up on Earl Bennet or Devin Hester, mistakes that lead to interceptions will be fewer than they have been in the last few seasons. The NFC is a hard conference to be a pro-bowl QB and it says a lot, beating out Eli Manning, Aaron Rodgers, Matthew Stafford, and company. If the Bear's had an offensive line, I could confidently say that Jay Cutler has a chance to be a pro-bowl QB. I wouldn't mind being wrong on this one.
Brandon Marshall
Traded to the Bears this off-season for two 3rd round draft picks and reunited with his former teammate Jay Cutler, Marshall looks to another change of scenery in hopes of greener pastures. For the first time in my life, the Bears will have a legitimate pro-bowl wide receiver, and a QB who is on the verge of breaking through the glass ceiling (due to a lackluster offense) that has plagued him the last three seasons. No matter who has been throwing Marshall "the pill" he has been putting up pro-bowl numbers. With something to prove and nothing to lose, will the Cutler-Marshall dynamic duo lead to past success'?
Rec: 95 (O)
Rec Yards: 1,250 (O)
TDs: 9 (U)
Marshall is the first true number one wide receiver this franchise has had in it's entire existence. His presence alone will creates match-up problems for almost all NFL secondaries, and allow the Bear's offense to attack defenses in multi-faceted ways. Considering the liberties Tice is giving Cutler, BMarsh will most likely surpass 100 receptions as he did in Denver with Jay and company. In his two seasons with Cutler, BMarsh caught 1,325 yards in 2007 and 1,265 in 2008. And that's when they looked like they were "just running around" on the field. BMarsh will also be a legitimate red-zone threat the Bear's have never had (not to mention having another one in Alshon Jeffery on the other side), but since he will draw most of the coverage to his side, I don't see him catching too many touchdowns. He has only caught 10 touchdowns once in his career, and that was in 2009 when "Neckbeard" (Kyle Orton) was slinging "the pill" (no not that pill) in Denver.
Earl Bennet
Drafted by the Bear's in 2008, Bennet has proven to be a solid slot receiver and a favorite target for former Vanderbilt teammate Jay Cutler. That might change slightly this year as Brandon Marshall has been thrown in the mix, but only for the better. Now with Marshall lined up on the outside, this will force safeties to play Marshall more leaving Earl in more one-on-one match ups. Rec: 53 (U)
Rec Yards: 700 (U)
TDs: 4 (O)
Earl has only had 50 receptions once in his career and that was back in 2009 when the Bear's receiving corps depth was so shallow, Devin Hester was considered the number one receiver. I don't expect him to match that capacity, but he will receive his fair share of the football. Cutler will have plenty of options this season and with Earl in the slot, it's not an out of the question assessment that 700 yards could be attained. But with the additions made in the off season, and depending on the use of "the Hester package", I think Earl's value will be found more in the end-zone and over the middle routes. If there is one player I hope I'm wrong about, it's definitely Earl.
Devin Hester
After making the switch to the Bear's number one wide receiver in 2009, Hester began to see a steady decline in his kick/punt return duties. As a byproduct to the new additions to the wide receiver corps, Hester will see a lesser role, but will star in what Mike Tice has dubbed "The Hester Package". What exactly this is, no one knows. Whatever it is, it will most likely take advantage of the depth the Bears have a WR leaving Hester in more one-on-one situations, and forcing a defense to "pick it's poison".
Rec: 35 (O)
Rec Yards: 650 (O)
TDs: 4 (U)
Hester has indirectly made it known he wasn't a Mike Martz fan, as Martz didn't really find unique ways to use such a unique talent. Mike Tice has made it known through training camp there will be a "Hester Package" available for the offense to use that will feature the speedy former Miami Hurricane player. So it's safe to say, he will have the football thrown his way more this season versus what he has seen in the past. Most of Hester's production has come from the Bears stretching the field vertically, and using his speed coming out of the backfield or on check down plays. Since most secondaries are going to be focused on the two big guys on the outside, Earl in the slot, and keeping an eye on Forte in the backfield, Hester has the potential to make big plays. It isn't really public knowledge, but most teams do not fear Hester as wide receiver. But in the right package, with the right personnel, Hester can be that pivotal player that opens up the defense enough to stretch them vertically or catch them off-guard and create something out of nothing.
Joe's Sports Corner NFL Pre-Season Top 10
by Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
1. New England
Yes, they lost Super Bowl earlier this year and the defense wasn't at its best performance. But when a HOF head coach and QB are entering their 13th season as a tandem: advantage New England.
The bean town juggernaut improved it's struggling defense through the draft, drafting a defense end and linebacker in the first round. They bolstered their deep receiving corps with the addition of Brandon Lloyd, and hope Dan Woodhead and company can produce the a healthier run game. The offense ranked 2cd in the passing attack, and if "Yo Soy Fiesta" boy and Brady match what they did last year, look out NFL.
The Patriots regular-season schedule also seems to favor them as well. They won't face an elite QB until week 5 (Manning) and really won't see another QB challenge them until week 14 (Schaub).
2. New York Giants
I'll be honest here. The Giants are 1 of 2 teams in this top 10 that I've found to be over-rated. They finished the season with a 9-7 record, good enough to get to the playoffs, and started playing ball at the right time. But will that translate into next season? Doubtful. Second year rookie star corner back Prince Amukamara upgrades the defense, but the team did not address the defense in the draft, instead opting to add depth to an aging offensive line. The Giants 5th ranked passing attack will carry this team, but I don't expect this team to match last year's success.
Instead, we will most likely watch them implode against their own division. I picked this team to be a .500 team last year, and I'm basically sticking to that prediction for this year. They will fade out of the Top 5 by the end of week 2.
3. Green Bay
15-1 in the regular season doesn't mean much if you can't get past the 2cd round. The Packer's spent most of the regular season in shoot-outs with their opponents masking their deficiencies on defense. The team had mediocre success when it came to stopping the run, but the secondary couldn't stop the pass ranking 32cd and giving up an average of 300 yards a game. The Packer's are built for the regular season, but not the playoffs. The lack of run game has surprisingly not hampered this offense's potential, but this is a copy-cat league and the Giants did leave a blue print. But with Aaron Rodgers under center with his various weapons (which posted the 5th ranked passing offense) this team is still poised to take the NFC by the balls.....again.
4. Ravens
The Raven's aging defense put up impressive numbers last year leading the league in rushing yards against and fourth in passing yards against also. The team addressed some defensive depth needs via free agency and the draft. The defense has aged another year, but it doesn't look to be slowing down soon. The aging offensive line was addressed in the off-season, but if this team is going to rely on Joe Flacco's arm (which is mediocre at best) it's going to be a long season. Most of its success came through the ground game via Ray Rice. The stats say it all. When the Ravens pass 50+ times, they have yet to win. When rice has 25+ carries, they have a higher percentage at winning the game. Good thing they signed Ray Rice to a 4-year deal.
5. Steelers
Has anyone ever noticed Tim Tebow's arm beat the Steeler's number one ranked passing defense? OK, yes, he did it without the starting safety, but he still had 10 other guys to beat. The Steeler's offense has received an overhaul bringing in Todd Haley as the new offensive cordinator. The offense will suffer a huge blow if they can't retain vertical threat Mike Wallace (holdout), as he is in a bitter contract dispute after being franchise tagged this past off-sesaon. It's going to be another great battle for the AFC North division crown this year, but the success of both offense/defense on this team is going to come down to health. Troy Polamalu and Ben Roethisberger are a few that come to mind.
6. 49ers
Meet the second over-rated NFL team on this list. Playing in one of the worst divisions in football, half of the 49ers wins came from the lackluster NFC West. Rookie head coach Jim Harbaugh did lead this team to an astounding 13-3 record with a horrendous QB and the 8th best rushing offense. What really kept this team afloat was the defense. Easily one of the best rushing defenses in the league last year, San Francisco would punish their opponents for rushing the ball, and turn them into a one dimensional passing offense. It remains to be seen if the Golden Gate team can recapture last year's magic. They've got a pretty tough schedule ahead of them (outside of their division) and Alex Smith isn't known for his consistency (Urban Meyer QB's never translate well to the NFL) and the 49ers showed that by trying to recruit Peyton Manning. Funny how most 49er fan's seem to have forgotten that.
7. Bears
Newly hired general manager Phil Emery made some bold moves this past off season and has made it clear that he wants this team to win now. Bringing in Brandon Marshall through trade, drafting a solid defensive end, a second wide-out threat, and figured out a way to pay Matt Forte. He has set them up with a revamped wide receiver corps, depth at the running back position, added depth to the defensive line and secondary. The older and solid defense needs a consistent pass rush on opposing QB's, and most importantly, it needs to create turnovers. The defense struggled against the pass (according to statistics), but that's a little misleading because the scheme they run allows short passes underneath the linebackers allowing opposing teams to rack up pass yards, but not points. The Bear's enter this season with a lot of optimism and added talent. Now they just need to execute and stay healthy.
8. Texans
Ground and Pound. The Texans posted some pretty impressive defensive numbers last year while they rushed their way into the playoffs. Injuries to the team derailed their playoff success as they lost to the Ravens with Matt Schaub on the sidelines and T.J Yates taking snaps under center. The Schaub-Johnson-Foster tandem only played 3 1/2 quarters together, in total, last season. As the 2012 season approaches the healthy trio looks to dominate the AFC South again and lead the Texans to another division title.
9. Saints
The Saints organization is in disarray. Plagued with a drama filled off season that led to a year long suspension for head coach Sean Payton and middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma, the defense now finds itself in transition after Greg Williams left the team for the Rams(then was banned from the NFL). Saddled with the 3rd worst passing defense, the Saints former all-star defense struggled against pure passing NFL QB's. The off-field issues and departures is why the Saints find themselves on this side of power rankings. When you have Drew Brees as a QB and 2 strong NFL drafts over the last two years, expect to see this team make its way back to the top 5 by the end of week 1 of the regular season.
10. Falcons
The Falcons climaxed in the 2011 divisional playoffs when they went one and out being eliminated by the Green Bay Packers. Since then, despite the talent they've added, the Falcons seemed to have plateaued. The offense is explosive and has weapons with a solid running game, but the defense struggles against the pass, and has never been consistent. The Falcons play in a competitive division, facing the Drew Brees and the Saints twice, with a visit from Josh Freeman, and Rookie of the Year Cam Newtown.
I imagine Mike Smith will be smelling the hot-seat if they fail to make the playoffs this year.
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
1. New England
Yes, they lost Super Bowl earlier this year and the defense wasn't at its best performance. But when a HOF head coach and QB are entering their 13th season as a tandem: advantage New England.
The bean town juggernaut improved it's struggling defense through the draft, drafting a defense end and linebacker in the first round. They bolstered their deep receiving corps with the addition of Brandon Lloyd, and hope Dan Woodhead and company can produce the a healthier run game. The offense ranked 2cd in the passing attack, and if "Yo Soy Fiesta" boy and Brady match what they did last year, look out NFL.
The Patriots regular-season schedule also seems to favor them as well. They won't face an elite QB until week 5 (Manning) and really won't see another QB challenge them until week 14 (Schaub).
2. New York Giants
I'll be honest here. The Giants are 1 of 2 teams in this top 10 that I've found to be over-rated. They finished the season with a 9-7 record, good enough to get to the playoffs, and started playing ball at the right time. But will that translate into next season? Doubtful. Second year rookie star corner back Prince Amukamara upgrades the defense, but the team did not address the defense in the draft, instead opting to add depth to an aging offensive line. The Giants 5th ranked passing attack will carry this team, but I don't expect this team to match last year's success.
Instead, we will most likely watch them implode against their own division. I picked this team to be a .500 team last year, and I'm basically sticking to that prediction for this year. They will fade out of the Top 5 by the end of week 2.
3. Green Bay
15-1 in the regular season doesn't mean much if you can't get past the 2cd round. The Packer's spent most of the regular season in shoot-outs with their opponents masking their deficiencies on defense. The team had mediocre success when it came to stopping the run, but the secondary couldn't stop the pass ranking 32cd and giving up an average of 300 yards a game. The Packer's are built for the regular season, but not the playoffs. The lack of run game has surprisingly not hampered this offense's potential, but this is a copy-cat league and the Giants did leave a blue print. But with Aaron Rodgers under center with his various weapons (which posted the 5th ranked passing offense) this team is still poised to take the NFC by the balls.....again.
4. Ravens
The Raven's aging defense put up impressive numbers last year leading the league in rushing yards against and fourth in passing yards against also. The team addressed some defensive depth needs via free agency and the draft. The defense has aged another year, but it doesn't look to be slowing down soon. The aging offensive line was addressed in the off-season, but if this team is going to rely on Joe Flacco's arm (which is mediocre at best) it's going to be a long season. Most of its success came through the ground game via Ray Rice. The stats say it all. When the Ravens pass 50+ times, they have yet to win. When rice has 25+ carries, they have a higher percentage at winning the game. Good thing they signed Ray Rice to a 4-year deal.
5. Steelers
Has anyone ever noticed Tim Tebow's arm beat the Steeler's number one ranked passing defense? OK, yes, he did it without the starting safety, but he still had 10 other guys to beat. The Steeler's offense has received an overhaul bringing in Todd Haley as the new offensive cordinator. The offense will suffer a huge blow if they can't retain vertical threat Mike Wallace (holdout), as he is in a bitter contract dispute after being franchise tagged this past off-sesaon. It's going to be another great battle for the AFC North division crown this year, but the success of both offense/defense on this team is going to come down to health. Troy Polamalu and Ben Roethisberger are a few that come to mind.
6. 49ers
Meet the second over-rated NFL team on this list. Playing in one of the worst divisions in football, half of the 49ers wins came from the lackluster NFC West. Rookie head coach Jim Harbaugh did lead this team to an astounding 13-3 record with a horrendous QB and the 8th best rushing offense. What really kept this team afloat was the defense. Easily one of the best rushing defenses in the league last year, San Francisco would punish their opponents for rushing the ball, and turn them into a one dimensional passing offense. It remains to be seen if the Golden Gate team can recapture last year's magic. They've got a pretty tough schedule ahead of them (outside of their division) and Alex Smith isn't known for his consistency (Urban Meyer QB's never translate well to the NFL) and the 49ers showed that by trying to recruit Peyton Manning. Funny how most 49er fan's seem to have forgotten that.
Newly hired general manager Phil Emery made some bold moves this past off season and has made it clear that he wants this team to win now. Bringing in Brandon Marshall through trade, drafting a solid defensive end, a second wide-out threat, and figured out a way to pay Matt Forte. He has set them up with a revamped wide receiver corps, depth at the running back position, added depth to the defensive line and secondary. The older and solid defense needs a consistent pass rush on opposing QB's, and most importantly, it needs to create turnovers. The defense struggled against the pass (according to statistics), but that's a little misleading because the scheme they run allows short passes underneath the linebackers allowing opposing teams to rack up pass yards, but not points. The Bear's enter this season with a lot of optimism and added talent. Now they just need to execute and stay healthy.
8. Texans
Ground and Pound. The Texans posted some pretty impressive defensive numbers last year while they rushed their way into the playoffs. Injuries to the team derailed their playoff success as they lost to the Ravens with Matt Schaub on the sidelines and T.J Yates taking snaps under center. The Schaub-Johnson-Foster tandem only played 3 1/2 quarters together, in total, last season. As the 2012 season approaches the healthy trio looks to dominate the AFC South again and lead the Texans to another division title.
9. Saints
The Saints organization is in disarray. Plagued with a drama filled off season that led to a year long suspension for head coach Sean Payton and middle linebacker Jonathan Vilma, the defense now finds itself in transition after Greg Williams left the team for the Rams(then was banned from the NFL). Saddled with the 3rd worst passing defense, the Saints former all-star defense struggled against pure passing NFL QB's. The off-field issues and departures is why the Saints find themselves on this side of power rankings. When you have Drew Brees as a QB and 2 strong NFL drafts over the last two years, expect to see this team make its way back to the top 5 by the end of week 1 of the regular season.
10. Falcons
The Falcons climaxed in the 2011 divisional playoffs when they went one and out being eliminated by the Green Bay Packers. Since then, despite the talent they've added, the Falcons seemed to have plateaued. The offense is explosive and has weapons with a solid running game, but the defense struggles against the pass, and has never been consistent. The Falcons play in a competitive division, facing the Drew Brees and the Saints twice, with a visit from Josh Freeman, and Rookie of the Year Cam Newtown.
I imagine Mike Smith will be smelling the hot-seat if they fail to make the playoffs this year.
Friday, July 13, 2012
Adversity is Babe Ruth's Best Friend
by Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
Did Babe Ruth call his shot?
Most people think so.
We're all aware Babe Ruth was a legend, but this is clearly a myth.
It was Game 3 of the 1932 World Series.
Cub's starting pitcher Charlie Root was on the bump with the future hall of famer Gabby Hartnet, behind the plate.
Root struggled in the first inning giving up two base hits to the first Yankee hitters. Babe Ruth came up to bat next and hit a home run into right centerfield bleachers.
Two innings later, Lou Gehrig hit a home run extending the lead 4-1.
The Cub's ended up battling back, tying the game at four runs a piece. An error by Babe Ruth cost the Bronx Bombers their comfortable lead.
The Sultan of Swat's futile attempt at a diving catch gave up a double to Joe Judge, who eventually crossed the plate, tying the game. This only riled the crowd further, as they turned their fruits and jeers toward the Babe.
At the top of the fifth inning is where the myth begins......
The aging slugger walks to the plate competing in his last World Series with his numbers in slow decline. He was now a defensive liability and the current "goat" of the inning.
Ruth was taunted(for the error in the 4th inning)by the crowd, and mostly by the Cub's bench.
He takes his first strike and makes a gestures with one finger.
The verbal assaults continued from both parties as the Bambino watched strike two whiz right by.
A second gesture is made, this time with two fingers.
By this time the barrage of insults continued. Cub player's who were in the dug-out were now slowly trickling out to gibe Ruth.
Everyone agrees that Ruth received the brunt of verbal assaults from the Chicago Cub's bench, but instead of ignoring them, Ruth was simply taunting them through his words and gestures.
The nature of this debate isn't about a home run. It's about "what Ruth was gesturing"? Was he pointing at the Cub's bench? Center field? Maybe he was talking to Cub's pitcher Charlie Root? All eye-witness account's and video evidence of that moment remain inconclusive.
I originally wrote this blog to answer the question:
"Did Ruth really call his shot?"
Sadly, the answer to the question is merely just another question:
"Does it really matter?"
I don't think it does.
What it really comes down to is this:
The Chicago Cub's challenged The Bambino and he responded. And he responded in a big way. All that adversity that surrounded The Sultan of Swat was knocked out of the park with the baseball that sealed his fate in a mystical land we now call folklore.
They say you can measure a lot by a man and the way he responds to adversity.
It's the stuff legends are made from.
Truth be told, "the called shot" was just a way to get the majority of the public to spend 25 cents on a newspaper.
It was after all, just a story.
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
Did Babe Ruth call his shot?
Most people think so.
We're all aware Babe Ruth was a legend, but this is clearly a myth.
It was Game 3 of the 1932 World Series.
Cub's starting pitcher Charlie Root was on the bump with the future hall of famer Gabby Hartnet, behind the plate.
Root struggled in the first inning giving up two base hits to the first Yankee hitters. Babe Ruth came up to bat next and hit a home run into right centerfield bleachers.
Two innings later, Lou Gehrig hit a home run extending the lead 4-1.
The Cub's ended up battling back, tying the game at four runs a piece. An error by Babe Ruth cost the Bronx Bombers their comfortable lead.
The Sultan of Swat's futile attempt at a diving catch gave up a double to Joe Judge, who eventually crossed the plate, tying the game. This only riled the crowd further, as they turned their fruits and jeers toward the Babe.
At the top of the fifth inning is where the myth begins......
The aging slugger walks to the plate competing in his last World Series with his numbers in slow decline. He was now a defensive liability and the current "goat" of the inning.
Ruth was taunted(for the error in the 4th inning)by the crowd, and mostly by the Cub's bench.
He takes his first strike and makes a gestures with one finger.
The verbal assaults continued from both parties as the Bambino watched strike two whiz right by.
A second gesture is made, this time with two fingers.
By this time the barrage of insults continued. Cub player's who were in the dug-out were now slowly trickling out to gibe Ruth.
The next pitch was a curve-ball that was blasted 440 feet out of the ballpark onto temporary wooden bleachers built on Sheffield Avenue.
On his way around first base, he begins some sort of "sit down" motion with his left hand. As he rounds second base he begins to make another outward pushing motion with both hands. Perhaps playfully telling Cub player's to go back into the dugout. As he rounds third he just trots by like he's been there before.
Everyone agrees that Ruth received the brunt of verbal assaults from the Chicago Cub's bench, but instead of ignoring them, Ruth was simply taunting them through his words and gestures.
The nature of this debate isn't about a home run. It's about "what Ruth was gesturing"? Was he pointing at the Cub's bench? Center field? Maybe he was talking to Cub's pitcher Charlie Root? All eye-witness account's and video evidence of that moment remain inconclusive.
I originally wrote this blog to answer the question:
"Did Ruth really call his shot?"
Sadly, the answer to the question is merely just another question:
"Does it really matter?"
I don't think it does.
What it really comes down to is this:
The Chicago Cub's challenged The Bambino and he responded. And he responded in a big way. All that adversity that surrounded The Sultan of Swat was knocked out of the park with the baseball that sealed his fate in a mystical land we now call folklore.
They say you can measure a lot by a man and the way he responds to adversity.
It's the stuff legends are made from.
Truth be told, "the called shot" was just a way to get the majority of the public to spend 25 cents on a newspaper.
It was after all, just a story.
Monday, July 9, 2012
Random Thoughts About The White Sox
by Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
*Whats with that HEY HEY GOODBYE stuff at "the Cell"?? Are Sox fan's and Bull's fans one in the same? I guess not because the Bulls are a cherished franchise in Chicago
*Speaking of which, how could you rename a historical franchise's ball park after a cellular phone company?? I guess Tampax was already taken.....
*If I hear another Sox fan tell me how they won the World Series 7 YEARS AGO, I'm just going to shake my head and call that person ignorant
*I think its funny how White Sox fan's don't realize they were given the Cub's old moniker (The White Stockings) when they were introduced as an American League team in 1901
*Did I mention White Sox fans still go on and on about that world series they won 7 YEARS AGO
*At least the Cub's didnt throw a World Series (or get caught doing it)
*White Sox have 8 players banned from Major League Baseball....Cub's: 0
*Bud Selig tried to move the White Sox to Milwaukee back in 1969. I'm kind of torn on the outcome of that.
*One time I had a White Sox fan call Cub's fans a bunch of yuppies. Then he drove off in his Land Rover while telling his buddy he just schooled a Cub's fan on his Iphone.
*The White Sox sux
*It's good to know White Sox fans are OK with the fact they park their cars, grill, drink, and liter on the same spot they won the World Series in 1917 (The Old Comisky Park, now a parking lot)
*What's the difference between a White Sox fan and a Green Bay Packers fan? 204 miles.
*The American League used to be a Minor League system. Not much has changed since then.
*Hawk is an idiot. I got your ducksnort right here.......
*There's a reason Harey Carey left the south-side for the north side.
*Jerry Reinsdorf and Krause
*Ken Williams doesn't wash his hands after he pees (worked Spring Training and ran into him in the can upstairs by the owners box)
*LOL one name: Ken Griffey jr
*I still dont see why this Beckham guy is supposed to be good
*Only a White Sox fans think their team is Number one in Chicago
*The "Cell" is the worst baseball park in America
*Most White Sox fans don't even know that the Ramp (by the original Comisky home plate) is suppose to mirror the Old Comisky park building
*Correct me if I'm wrong, but a father/son (both White Sox fans) try to beat up a first base coach?
@BrewMastrJoe on twitter
*Whats with that HEY HEY GOODBYE stuff at "the Cell"?? Are Sox fan's and Bull's fans one in the same? I guess not because the Bulls are a cherished franchise in Chicago
*Speaking of which, how could you rename a historical franchise's ball park after a cellular phone company?? I guess Tampax was already taken.....
*If I hear another Sox fan tell me how they won the World Series 7 YEARS AGO, I'm just going to shake my head and call that person ignorant
*I think its funny how White Sox fan's don't realize they were given the Cub's old moniker (The White Stockings) when they were introduced as an American League team in 1901
*Did I mention White Sox fans still go on and on about that world series they won 7 YEARS AGO
*At least the Cub's didnt throw a World Series (or get caught doing it)
*White Sox have 8 players banned from Major League Baseball....Cub's: 0
*Bud Selig tried to move the White Sox to Milwaukee back in 1969. I'm kind of torn on the outcome of that.
*One time I had a White Sox fan call Cub's fans a bunch of yuppies. Then he drove off in his Land Rover while telling his buddy he just schooled a Cub's fan on his Iphone.
*The White Sox sux
*It's good to know White Sox fans are OK with the fact they park their cars, grill, drink, and liter on the same spot they won the World Series in 1917 (The Old Comisky Park, now a parking lot)
*What's the difference between a White Sox fan and a Green Bay Packers fan? 204 miles.
*The American League used to be a Minor League system. Not much has changed since then.
*Hawk is an idiot. I got your ducksnort right here.......
*There's a reason Harey Carey left the south-side for the north side.
*Jerry Reinsdorf and Krause
*Ken Williams doesn't wash his hands after he pees (worked Spring Training and ran into him in the can upstairs by the owners box)
*LOL one name: Ken Griffey jr
*I still dont see why this Beckham guy is supposed to be good
*Only a White Sox fans think their team is Number one in Chicago
*The "Cell" is the worst baseball park in America
*Most White Sox fans don't even know that the Ramp (by the original Comisky home plate) is suppose to mirror the Old Comisky park building
*Correct me if I'm wrong, but a father/son (both White Sox fans) try to beat up a first base coach?
Tuesday, June 26, 2012
Futility & The Chicago Cubs est. 1906
By Joe Persinger
@BrewMastrJoe on Twitter
A while back I wrote a blog about the futility of the Chicago Cub's since moving to Wrigley Field.
A plethora of changes have taken place since then.
Sam Zell sold the team to the Ricketts family.
The Jim Hendry era ended.
Wrigley Field has received a "marketing make-over".
The Theo Epstein "experiment" has begun.
And Kerry Wood has officially retired (what a great last outing!).
The two things that haven't changed since 2009 (which is when the blog was posted) is the Cub's overall World Series record (8-24) and their post-season consecutive loss streak, which is currently at 8 games.
Game 2 of the 2008 NLDS at Wrigley Field changed my perspective on the so-called curse that has bestowed itself on the former seminary grounds. The 4 consecutive errors the infielders committed was followed up by a Manny Ramirez steroid-induced-home run.
The experience of personally witnessing the collapse prompted me to do a little
post-season research and I was stunned at what I found.
The numbers dont support any lame-brain curse theories, but prove the Cub's futilities (in post-season play) since the inclination of the World Series.
The futile ball club sports a 2-11 record in World Series games played at Wrigley Field. The only 2 wins coming in Game 5 of the 1935 World Series (played against the Yankees) and Game 6 of the 1945 World Series (played against the Tigers).
Let's break this down even further:
The Cub's were swept at Wrigley Field in the 1929, 1932, and 1938 World Series.
In 3 World Series appearances (1929, 1932, 1935) the Cubs lost 6 consecutive World Series home games ending the loss streak in Game 5 of the 1935 World Series.
In their last 2 World Series appearances (1938, 1945) the Cub's lost 4 consecutive home games ending the loss streak in Game 6 of the 1945 World Series.
Against the Yankees in '32 & '35 World Series, the Cub's were outscored almost 2-1 (59-28).
The Cub's have never won consecutive World Series home games at Wrigley Field.
The Cub's have never won a World Series at Wrigley Field. (You'd be surprised how many people don't know that)
A key factor in clinching any series against an opponent is having success on your home field.
Something the Cub's know not of.
To my surprise, I had also discovered that Cub's were swept at home in the 1906 World Series against the White Sox.
At first glance I was appalled by these telling statistics. Are the Cub's cursed?
Of course not.
They played a Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig led team in 1932 (don't forget the myth of the called shot). In 1935, Hank Greenberg and the Detroit Tigers were making their second consecutive World Series appearance. The futile ball club then played a talented 1938 Yankees team featuring a Hall of Fame Manager Joe McCarthy, a young budding star named Joe Dimaggio, and soon to be Hall of Famer Lou Gehrig.
For those that don't know, the Billy Goat didn't show up (and be turned away) until 1945. The Cubs were already sinking fast at that point.
It's the equivilent of Billy Sianis (the goat's owner) looking at a burning building and yelling "That building will never reach the sky again!". Then two minutes later the top of the building collapses and crashes to the ground.
Billy and his goat timed that one out perfectly.
That billy goat crap is just that. Crap. Simply put, every team the Cub's lost to in the World Series, were just better teams.
The Cub's downward trending post-season play doesn't give Cub-Nation much to smile at. The "North-Sider's" find themselves these days with a not-so mind boggling 8 game consecutive loss streak in the post-season dating back to their last two losses (at home) in the 2003 NLCS.
So let's break that down(again):
In the last 106 years the Cub's have compiled 4 different home consecutive loss streaks.
3 of the 4 consecutive loss-streaks taking place during 6 different World Series appearances.
(The other is their current 8 consecutive post-season losses)
Currently in a consecutive 5 home game post-season loss-streak and are one loss away from tying their all-time post-season/World Series consecutive loss record (6).
I wonder if Theo was aware of these "stats" when he decided to take the job.
"Well, there's always 3 years from now........"
@BrewMastrJoe on Twitter
A while back I wrote a blog about the futility of the Chicago Cub's since moving to Wrigley Field.
Sam Zell sold the team to the Ricketts family.
The Jim Hendry era ended.
Wrigley Field has received a "marketing make-over".
The Theo Epstein "experiment" has begun.
And Kerry Wood has officially retired (what a great last outing!).
The two things that haven't changed since 2009 (which is when the blog was posted) is the Cub's overall World Series record (8-24) and their post-season consecutive loss streak, which is currently at 8 games.
Game 2 of the 2008 NLDS at Wrigley Field changed my perspective on the so-called curse that has bestowed itself on the former seminary grounds. The 4 consecutive errors the infielders committed was followed up by a Manny Ramirez steroid-induced-home run.
post-season research and I was stunned at what I found.
The numbers dont support any lame-brain curse theories, but prove the Cub's futilities (in post-season play) since the inclination of the World Series.
The futile ball club sports a 2-11 record in World Series games played at Wrigley Field. The only 2 wins coming in Game 5 of the 1935 World Series (played against the Yankees) and Game 6 of the 1945 World Series (played against the Tigers).
Let's break this down even further:
The Cub's were swept at Wrigley Field in the 1929, 1932, and 1938 World Series.
In 3 World Series appearances (1929, 1932, 1935) the Cubs lost 6 consecutive World Series home games ending the loss streak in Game 5 of the 1935 World Series.
In their last 2 World Series appearances (1938, 1945) the Cub's lost 4 consecutive home games ending the loss streak in Game 6 of the 1945 World Series.
Against the Yankees in '32 & '35 World Series, the Cub's were outscored almost 2-1 (59-28).
The Cub's have never won consecutive World Series home games at Wrigley Field.
The Cub's have never won a World Series at Wrigley Field. (You'd be surprised how many people don't know that)
A key factor in clinching any series against an opponent is having success on your home field.
Something the Cub's know not of.
To my surprise, I had also discovered that Cub's were swept at home in the 1906 World Series against the White Sox.
At first glance I was appalled by these telling statistics. Are the Cub's cursed?
Of course not.
They played a Babe Ruth/Lou Gehrig led team in 1932 (don't forget the myth of the called shot). In 1935, Hank Greenberg and the Detroit Tigers were making their second consecutive World Series appearance. The futile ball club then played a talented 1938 Yankees team featuring a Hall of Fame Manager Joe McCarthy, a young budding star named Joe Dimaggio, and soon to be Hall of Famer Lou Gehrig. For those that don't know, the Billy Goat didn't show up (and be turned away) until 1945. The Cubs were already sinking fast at that point.
It's the equivilent of Billy Sianis (the goat's owner) looking at a burning building and yelling "That building will never reach the sky again!". Then two minutes later the top of the building collapses and crashes to the ground.
Billy and his goat timed that one out perfectly.
That billy goat crap is just that. Crap. Simply put, every team the Cub's lost to in the World Series, were just better teams.
The Cub's downward trending post-season play doesn't give Cub-Nation much to smile at. The "North-Sider's" find themselves these days with a not-so mind boggling 8 game consecutive loss streak in the post-season dating back to their last two losses (at home) in the 2003 NLCS.
So let's break that down(again):
In the last 106 years the Cub's have compiled 4 different home consecutive loss streaks.
3 of the 4 consecutive loss-streaks taking place during 6 different World Series appearances.
(The other is their current 8 consecutive post-season losses)
Currently in a consecutive 5 home game post-season loss-streak and are one loss away from tying their all-time post-season/World Series consecutive loss record (6).
I wonder if Theo was aware of these "stats" when he decided to take the job.
"Well, there's always 3 years from now........"
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Daily Edition: Rebuilding MLB's Past
by Joe Persinger
@Brew_Mastr_Joe on twitter
Ever since I began watching baseball, I've always wondered what it would have been like to watch a game at Ebbets Field. Or what the rooftop views from Schibe Park looked like, the smell of the grass, freshly popped popcorn at Crosley Field, and the ivy covered spacious outfield walls of Forbes Field.
Over the last 20 years, many retro-modern baseball parks have began to spring up. Giving fans a feel for the golden years, but with all the amenities these modern times have to offer.
But are they really "retro-modern"?
But are they really "retro-modern"?
I think "modern-retro" would be a more appropriate.
Most design companies have done a great job incorporating the old with new, but something isn't right. The newer baseball parks capture that moment in time, but only at field level. By the time I walk to the concourse there are flat screen TV's, digital connections everywhere, food coming at me in every direction, along with some of the cheesiest promotions I have seen.
As a little kid I used to think to myself: "If I ever fall into a large sum of money, I am going to give it back to baseball by rebuilding all the old baseball parks!"
But then the child I was grew up (sort of).
I started to see how evil, cynical, and greedy this world can actually be and once I was old enough to figure out financing, property taxes, leases, overhead, and the rest of the headaches involved, I moved on.
But I can still dream.
In the concrete and steel era of ballpark construction and design, the new ballparks of yesterday were born. Most of these stadiums, parks, and ball fields became synonymous with the golden era that they thrived in.
With Fenway Park celebrating 100 years, and Wrigley Field being right behind it, I've created a list of the most memorable ballparks that have existed in the Major League's.
As a daily addition to Joe's Sports Corner, I will release one ballpark each day that has disappeared over the years. I've listed each edifice when it was constructed with a brief description about the features and history.
Then I'll ask and answer 2 questions.
What's There Now? & Is It Possible To Rebuild?
Bringing back that golden era of jewel box, retro ballparks would only add to mystique of baseball. Anyone that has ever been to a game at Fenway Park or Wrigley Field, knows how timeless baseball can be. It's a gift that should be shared throughout the league.
Even if it would be on a part time basis.
Here is today's edition of "Rebuilding MLB's Past":
Tiger Stadium also hosted three All Star games in 1941, 1951, and 1971.
5-8-12
5-7-2012
White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf threatened to move the team to Florida if his team didn't receive some sort of subsidy from public funding.
The important aspects of rebuilding would be the exterior of the ballpark, all of the famous arched windows, and the right field patio, and the iconic scoreboard. Keeping true to the large dimensions the ballpark had in it's early days would be ideal and gives newer generations a glimpse into where the game was played almost 100 years ago.
5-4-2012
Tiger Stadium
As Ty Cobb continued to play at a high level for the Tiger's, his base stealing and hitting ability helped fill the stands and ultimately helped the Tiger's finance their new ballpark.
Navin Field was named after then, Tiger's owner, Frank Navin. The name was changed to Briggs Stadium in 1938, and changed again to Tiger's Stadium in 1961 by the new owner, John Fetzer.
Opened on April 20, 1912(9 days after Crosley Field), Tiger Stadium, as most of us remember it, wasn't the original design.
Double decker grandstands curved around home plate to the first and third base sides. Beyond the double decker grandstands, were single decked pavilions that extended to the outfield walls. Bleachers ran across the perimeter of the outfield walls , bringing the total capacity of newly built stadium to 23,000 seats.
The ballpark was renovated to include double decker grandstands from foul pole to foul pole and across right field in 1935. The overhang of the right field grandstand, known for obstructing views, was the "home run" porch was only 320 feet from home plate.
3 years later, city hall relocated and the double decker grandstands were extended through left field bringing the stadium capacity of 52,416.
The double decker grandstands were some of the best views in Tiger Stadium giving every spectator the feeling of being right on top of the action.
The ballpark was the site of Babe Ruth's 700th home run which cleared the right field (single deck) bleachers. On May 2, 1939 Lou Gehrig pulled himself from a Yankees/Tigers game, in Detroit, ending his iron man record at 2,130 games.
Tiger Stadium also hosted three All Star games in 1941, 1951, and 1971.
The ball club wanted a new stadium, despite the resistance from traditionalist fans, who wanted to keep the team in Tiger Stadium. Despite this, the team left the ball park after the 1999 season and moved to Comerica Park in downtown Detroit.
What's There Now?
Many preservationists groups fought to keep the historical edifice erect, but after a few chances given to them by the city, their efforts were in vain.
The final stages of demolition was finished on Sepetember 21, 2009.
The baseball diamond and the center field flag pole still exists today. I'm not sure if it's open to the public, but the field has been preserved and with 18 of your friends, is ready for a pick up baseball game.
Is It Possible To Rebuild?
Yes. The site remains vacant since the final stages of demolition. The baseball diamond has been restored by Detroit citizens in the surrounding communities and the only thing stopping the reconstruction would be money and building permits. A Michigan senator has also stated there is $3.8 million federal dollars earmarked for the park's preservation.
5-8-12
Crosley Field
Home of the Cinncinatti Red's, Crosley Field was one of the most memorable ballparks of it's time. Originally named Redland's Field, the concrete and steal bandbox was one of the smallest ballparks(only 25,000 seats)constructed in that era.
A double decker grandstand was built around the diamond with a single decked pavilion further down the third and first base line. There was no seating in left or center field, just a trapezoid like shaped bleacher section out in right field dubbed, "The Sun Deck" or "Moon Deck" for night games.
Lights were erected in 1935 for night games and upper decks were added to the left and right field pavilion's. These were the only two changes the ballpark received in it's 58 year existence.
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| The terrace is visible in the deepest part of Left Field |
A stapled feature in the Midwest "bandbox" was the 15 degree incline in left field known as "The Terrace". The notorious left field feature served many purposes over it's existence. "The Terrace" served as a standing room area in a time where fans would sit in a roped off section on the field. Although "The Terrace" was mostly prominent in left field, it did extend all the way through the outfield and served also as a warning track for outfielders.
I'm sure a lot of knees were injured over the years from this incline.
Crosley field's decline began in the 1950's when the car became the primary mode of transportation. The lack of parking plagued the ball field in it's last 15 years, as did crime, making the area increasingly unsafe, especially during night games.
What's There Now?
A large building and parking lot occupies the grandstands, and the main field of play. The Cincinnati Whole Sale Florists sit in left field extending to the foul line and grandstands, and a printing company sits atop "The Terrace".
If you ever visit the site and look at the parking lot between the Whole Sale Florists building and the printing company building, "The Terrace" incline is still visible.
Is It Possible To Rebuild?
No.
Seven buildings occupy the land the ballpark used to sit on. Dalton street (which used to dead end at Finlay), now runs through what was then the field of play, now connects to York Lane which is what the left field wall used to run parallel.
A version of Crosley Field was erected in the suburb of Blue Ash, Ohio as part of the community sports complex. The little league ball park holds true to the dimensions of the original and has a recreated version of the scoreboard in left field. A 400 seat grandstand sits on the third base side, but outside of those features, its just an over the top little league field.
If I was a billionaire, I would rebuild Crosley (knowing I'd be loosing money) on a smaller basis, but on the same site.
I would build the newly created field on the corner of Findlay & Dalton Streets. The layout would still hold true to the original perimeter of the outfield, it would just have smaller dimensions, but still hold true to the features of it's predecessor. The scoreboard in left field, "The Terrace" in left field that also spans the entire outfield, and the "Sun and Moon" deck.
I would still hold true to the grandstand layout, but I would construct the 1912 version. Double decker grandstands along the diamond with the pavilions beyond first and third base sides.
Although a MLB game would never be played here, it would be a great site for an All Star game exhibition game of some sort(if Cincinnati were to receive the honors).
Another timeless ballpark ripped from our hands because some fat cat wanted to make a few extra bucks.
5-7-2012
Comiskey Park
Built on the site of a former city dump (yes that pun was intended), purchased by Comiskey in 1909, this pitcher friendly ballpark was erected July 1, 1910. The third reinforced concrete and steal ballpark, it was nicknamed, at the time, the "Baseball Palace of the World". It sat an astounding 28,900 fans and was built to suit the style of play the White Sox. Great defense and with a side of small ball.
The south side ballpark hosted 3 consecutive World Series in 1917, 1918, 1919. And another World Series against the LA Dodger's in 1958.
The Red Sox and Cubs faced off in the 1918 World Series. Instead of playing at Wrigley Field, the Cub's owners, felt it would be more prudent and profitable to move the game to Comiskey Park. With 29,000 seats (compared to 14,000 at Wrigley), Comisky offered more of a fiscal promise than the North Side ballpark.
Comiskey Park was the site of the first ever All-Star Game in 1933, and hosted that same game 50 years later. It also hosted the 1983 ALCS, which the White Sox lost.
White Sox chairman Jerry Reinsdorf threatened to move the team to Florida if his team didn't receive some sort of subsidy from public funding.
He received $200 million and built a "ball mall" across the street from the "Baseball Palace of the World".
What's There Now?
After it's demolition the lot was turned into a parking lot to accommodate fans attending, what is now called, US Cellular Field. The White Sox memorialized the park by painting the old foul lines in the parking lot and placing a marble home plate plaque where the original once stood. The 35th Street spectator ramp pays an om age to "Old Comiskey" by mirroring the old grandstand.
Is It Possible To Rebuild?
Yes. The land was turned into a parking lot and the only structure occupying the lot is the spectator ramp which connects to the "Ball Mall" across the street.
The rebuilding of the "Old Comiskey" would be a mirror image of its predecessor's, but would be built with modern technology and with a few modern alterations.
The important aspects of rebuilding would be the exterior of the ballpark, all of the famous arched windows, and the right field patio, and the iconic scoreboard. Keeping true to the large dimensions the ballpark had in it's early days would be ideal and gives newer generations a glimpse into where the game was played almost 100 years ago.
But what would happen to the parking lot?
With plenty of parking already available and the CTA Red Line across the street, I'm sure die-hard White Sox fan's wouldn't mind making the sacrifice to have their old home back.
If Cub's fan can do it, why can't the south side hobo's do it?
Just kidding.
5-4-2012
Forbes Field
Barney Dreyfuss, owner of the Pittsburgh Pirates, wasn't going to let Ben Schibe and Connie Mack one up him with their newly constructed state-of-the-art ballpark. Dreyfuss built the new ballpark in an undeveloped part of Pittsburgh leading to criticism from fans and media alike. When the ballpark was finished and the land began to develop, the criticism relented.
Refusing to allow "cheap home runs" in his new ballpark, Dreyfuss created long dimensions in left field(360 feet), center field(462 feet), right field(376 feet). All of the outfield walls were covered in ivy and was the first ballpark with this feature, not Wrigley Field.
With large dimensions, triples and inside-the-park home runs were very common. Although the park was known as "pitcher friendly", but never had a no-hitter pitched inside it's walls in its 61 years of existence.
Over the years, the infield began to develop a "rock hard" surface causing the ball to take unexpected bounces. Pirates play-by-play announcer Bob Prince nicknamed the ballpark "The House of Thrills" because of the unexpected path of bounces the baseball would make.
What's There Now?
The University of Pittsburgh purchased the field from the Pirates in 1958 and ended up demolishing the pitchers paradise in 1971 to make room for buildings and roads to service the University. Home plate sits in Posvar Hall in it's original location. This has been disputed by some, saying the "actual" original location of home plate now sits in a women's bathroom stall.
Is It Possible To Rebuild?
Absolutely not. The land is now occupied by the University of Pittsburgh and they are not going anywhere. What was open space 100 years ago has become so cramped, rebuilding a replica or smaller scale park would be a futile exercise.
The U of P has memorialized the park by encasing home plate on the lobby floor of Posvar Hall and marking the left center, center field brick wall--which stands in the original location--with the dimension markings along Roberto Clemente Drive. A historic plaque has also been placed near the brick wall reminding people of the historical site.
5/3/2012
While the Cub's were busy winning a World Series in 1907, the Philadelphia A's were discovering how popular "America's Pastime" had become in Philadelphia.
Built for 23,000 patrons just West of the "Baker Bowl" for $301,000 (1909 dollars) using the newest technology of the time. Steel reinforced concrete.
Most ballparks of that era were built mainly with wood and were prone to fire damage, and known to decay at a rapid rate.
Fans and owners took notice of the new baseball palace as it sparked a boom of 7 new ballparks being built with the new spacious look and steel reinforced concrete shell.
It was the Camden Yards of it's day.
The first ballpark to construct a double decker grandstand foul pole to foul pole.
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| ballparksofbaseball.com |
All the other team owner's took an envious look at this marvel, and followed suit with their current ballpark, or incorporated them into the plans for their new cathedral.
The signature exterior design is the octangular tower which sat on the southwest corner of the ballpark (behind home plate). The tower served as offices for the Ben Schibe and Connie Mack. The ground floor was a main entrance lobby. According to pitcher Bobby Shantz "..it looked like a church".
The ballpark was known for its huge dimensions when it first opened (center field was 515 feet from home plate), but had been shaved down dramatically by 1968. Home plate was reduced to 415 feet in it's final MLB season.
The A's ended up moving out West in the 1950's, the Phillies ended up leaving the park in 1970, and the Eagles were out of there by the 1959.
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| ballparksofbaseball.com |
Schibe Park remained without a tenant for the rest of it's existence. After a fire in August of 1971 which left the grandstand in ruins, the park remained unkempt until a judge declared it to be demolished.
What's There Now?
In 1991, a church was constructed on the former site and was marked with a historical marker acknowledging when it was constructed, demolished, and how many World Series it hosted over it's lifespan.
Kind of ironic if you ask me.
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| Source: Chrisepting.com |
Is It Possible To Rebuild?
Not really. I dont think a church that was constructed a more than 20 years ago would be willing to sale the land and relocate.
Schibe Park(like most parks of that era)was built in a city neighborhood where land has become sparse and very expensive. There is plenty of land to rebuild in the South Philadelphia Sports Complex, but that would be redundant since the recreated park would be constructed in a parking lot--with other stadiums surrounding it--and not in a neighborhood, which played into the parks atmosphere.
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