Play Ball!

Since college basketball season has ended my attention will turn to baseball, but There isn't much time to rest from being a diehard fan, and baseball season is so long it can be tiring at times. However, I'm excited to take several trips out to the ballpark. And while the Mets are wrapping up spring training, the Mariners and A's opened up the MLB season last week in a ballpark that I can say I've attended a baseball game in - the Tokyo Dome. Baseball is huge in Japan and in April 2010 when I took a trip to Hong Kong and Tokyo I made sure to get a ticket to watch the Yomiuri Giants at the Tokyo Dome. The crowd was amazing. It was mix of people coming straight from work in their plain black suits or people dressed head to toe in Giants gear. Everyone knew the chants and cheers for the team and there was even a section with fans for the visiting team doing their own cheers. The Giants had cheerleaders and mascots that interacted with fans in the corridors before the game began.

Here is a link to some pictures from the opening serious in Tokyo:
http://mediagallery.usatoday.com/G3599

Here is a picture from my trip to the Tokyo Dome:




And here is what I shared about my trip to the Tokyo Dome in a blog I used to keep when I lived in Washington, DC:

I entered the Tokyo Dome through the wrong gate because I couldn’t read my ticket. I had been looking forward to seeing a Japanese baseball game ever since I made the decision to go to Tokyo. I walked through the venue in search of something to eat. Some of the stadium food was similar to what we have in the U.S., but other items were exclusive to Japan. I stuck with the familiar stuff.
Finally, I was able to find where my seats were by asking a couple people for help. I took my sit in the Tokyo Dome anticipating a crowded venue. As it got closer to game time the sits filled up with people dawning either business suits or Giants apparel. Almost everyone had noisemakers and clapped them together as the Giants hit a couple homeruns. I glanced around and although I didn’t understand any of the words being spoken or the signage I knew exactly what was going on. I noticed a section on the other side of the Dome from where I was sitting. The people wore blue and red – the colors of the opposing team, the Hiroshima Carps. They seemed to have organized cheers depending on what the team was doing. I had never seen anything like that before at a baseball game in the U.S., unless you count the wave as an organized cheer. The fans were very dedicated to their teams.

Louisville Cardinals - Story Round Up

Check out this story from the Associated Press on Chane Behanan. Usually my favorite player on the team ends up being a guard - DeJuan Wheat, Marques Maybin, Cameron Murray, Taquan Dean, etc. this year I think it's Chane Behanan. Don't get me wrong I'm a huge fan of everyone on the team especially the guards, but I think Behanan has so much potential and said from the beginning that as he matures and plays more he will improve so much. He has been a great rebounder, but now it seems like his scoring ability is starting to show more.

http://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/colleges/louisville-freshman-chane-behanan-matures-provides-boost-for-cardinals-following-tough-start/2012/03/28/gIQA88cqfS_story.html

And check out this story about Gorgui Dieng from Eric Crawford of The Courier-Journal. I love these type of human interest stories about athletes. So many people we praise for their talents on the court, often have far more meaningful goals and lives away from the sport.

http://www.courier-journal.com/article/20120326/COLUMNISTS02/303260092/1002/sports/Eric-Crawford-Louisville-s-Gorgui-Dieng-giant-off-court?odyssey=mod|newswell|text|Sports|s

Chris Smith - We Want Kentucky

Watch this interview with senior guard Chris Smith after Louisville's win over Florida, taking the cardinals to the Final Four. Chris is a true ball player - he wants to face the best even if that means facing Louisville's biggest rival. WE WANT KENTUCKY!

FINAL FOUR !

When I was younger my dad decorated my room at our lake house with a University of Louisville theme. The walls were red and white and he hung a poster up with a cardinal bird celebrating the 1986 championship where Louisville beat Duke. As he hung it up I asked him if I was watching the game. I would have been about two and half years old and being the biggest fan of the team growing up it was important to me to know that I was watching it even if I couldn't remember it. Perhaps that would be the only final four we would get to in my lifetime and I wanted to believe I was somehow a part of it. I never got a direct answer to this question though, all my dad said in response was "Were you even born then?"

I like to think that I was watching that game though, but if not the closest I had come to witnessing a trip to the Final Four at that point was a trip to the Elite Eight led by my beloved and all-time favorite player DeJuan Wheat when I was 13 years old. I was crushed he didn't make it as I sat with the team media guide in my lap as if it had some answer that I needed to communicate through the TV for them to beat a Vince Carter and Antwan Jamison led North Carolina team. I knew that media guide backwards and forwards, but I was just a fan and there was nothing I could do to will my team to victory. Next year, maybe next year I thought.

But after Wheat graduated, the team seemed to take a turn for the worst. I still loved them, I still believed, but the numbers weren't there and at times the NCAA tournament didn't even look like a possibility, let alone the Final Four. Then Coach Crum retired and Rick Pitino was hired. There were some difficult feelings about his hiring. He had coached for that other team in the state down I-64. He had been a wildcat. How could he ever be a cardinal? But it didn't take for me long to embrace him. He seemed like a different coach at Louisville, perhaps his stint with the ego-filled NBA players had given him a fresh perspective on what it truly means to be a college coach. Suddenly his days of leading the blue and white were gone - he is the leader of the Cardinals and is a great leader at that. Given his track record for greatness it seemed like a run at the National Championship was on the horizon. However, it didn't happen right away. I made it through college without ever seeing a Louisville uniform on the court of the Final Four.

Then at a time when school should come first and being a fan second it happened. I was in my first year of law school at Tulane when I sat in my apartment in the graduate housing engrossed in a battle between Louisville and West Virginia. And when the game ended we stood as the victor and I was on the phone with my parents planning our trip to St. Louis. Somethings don't happen too often, Constitutional Law happened twice a week - it could wait.

I searched online for tickets and the most affordable I could find was $430. The ticket included the Final Four and the championship game. We purchased them through a ticket broker site - greatseats.com. And I headed back to Kentucky to drive with my family to St. Louis. We had to get a hotel in Illinois - everything around St. Louis was booked. Once there we had to arrange a meeting with the ticket broker for hand delivery of the tickets. It felt slightly awkward and uneasy, but turned out to go smoothly. Once the tickets were in hand everyone grew excited. And once in the arena we realized that our seats were not going to be great. The Final Four was in a football dome and we were so far up the court and players looked so small. I sat with my two younger cousins and my aunt, while my parents sat in another area. It didn't phase me though as to how far we were - I just felt fortunate to be there. And then Illinois stopped the excitement by sending us home. North Carolina was led by Sean May and Raymond Felton to become National Champions that year. I went back to school a couple days later, after I started feeling better from the cold I had picked up somewhere along the way. I shouldn't have probably missed school, but honestly I don't regret it. The only C I got in my life was in Constitutional Law (to be fair I got a C briefly as a quarter grade in social studies once in like the 3rd or 4th grade but quarter grades really didn't count and I'm sure I finished with an A) and I'm okay with that (most of the time). And the C was probably more of a result of me skipping class to work on my appellate brief rather than missing a day or two for the Final Four. I had been a great student my whole life - I deserved a break for once. And to be fair to myself I did graduate law school cum laude But I digress...

And now about 6 years later the Cardinals did what at times this year and even in yesterday's game seemed unlikely - they punched their ticket to another Final Four. I scheduled my day yesterday around being home to watch the game. I'm fairly superstitious at times while watching, so if I was doing something and they went on a run I tried to keep doing that until the run stopped. There were even points of the game that I couldn't watch. I walked to the bathroom to get ready for dinner later that night and heard what sounded like positive things for Louisville going on in the background. Until I heard Peyton Siva had picked up his fifth and final foul. I didn't know how much time was left. I was concerned to hear that Siva was out, which meant that Russ Smith (or as I found myself calling him Russy yesterday while screaming at my TV at him) was the point guard the rest of the way. Russ is great at times and out of control at others. He usually makes me nervous when he is in the game as the point guard, but he stepped it up when needed and lead the team with points in yesterday's victory over Florida. And Chane Behanan was just great down the stretch. He was poised and avoid getting his fifth foul. He gave us the lead. In a team where Chris Smith, Kyle Kuric, and Peyton Siva our often seen as the leaders on and off the floor, the final minutes of this game were controlled by a sophomore and freshman. And at the end everyone was smiling and Peyton knew that his season wasn't going to end while on the bench watching.

I'm still a little in shock that Louisville won yesterday. I think the team is in shock too a little. Florida shot lights out from the three point line in the first half yesterday. The looked unstoppable at times. But Louisville has always been a second half team. They have always been a team of runs. And they had there big run right when it's the most important - at the end.

Chane Behanan was named West Regional MVP and rightly so. He put up 15 and 17 points in the Sweet Sixteen and Elite Eight. He is a power inside when it comes to rebounding. He is just a freshman. Russ Smith is instant offense. I love when the commentators say that he hasn't met a shot he didn't like. He is learning to play more controlled and is allowing Peyton some time to rest at points in the game. Pitino says he is the teams best one-on-one player. Not to mention I love the kid because he is a New York City kid from Brooklyn. He is just a sophomore. Chris Smith can't play a game without some commentator mentioning his brother JR Smith. He doesn't seem to be too vocal, he has a humble personality. He can get hot and make some offense happen. He is a leader. Yesterday after they cut down the nets he wore one around his neck. In an interview a reporter stated that he was sure Chris had some really expensive necklaces and then asked how the one he wore now compared to those. He seemed to indicate he preferred the net more (he did confirm though that he had expensive necklaces). He is a senior, this is his last shot at winning a championship. Kyle Kuric leads the team in scoring. He is the best three point and foul shooter on the team. He is poised. He too is leader. Pitino said he gathered the guys together at some point in instilled in them that they were still in the game yesterday. He too is a senior, this is his last shot at a championship. Gorgui Dieng is a a force inside. He is an amazing shot blocker - maybe the best I've seen to put on a Louisville jersey since Samaki Walker. He has an amazing basketball IQ. Also apparently he can knock down the three pointer - he hit his first one in the Sweet Sixteen. He is a sophomore. And then there are the guys who step in when needed, especially yesterday when the fouls seemed to be a little one sided. Or the guys that have become sideline coaches and cheerleaders due to season ending injuries. Angel Nunez, Rakeem Buckles, Zach Price, Jared Swopshire, Elisha Justice, Kevin Ware, Mike Marra, Wayne Blackshear, and Stephan Van Treese (I apologize if I left anyone off). And then last but not least there is Peyton Siva. Every team has a heart and soul and Peyton is ours. You can see every ounce of emotion in his eyes. Peyton may not be the best point guard in the country, but he wills himself to completely give of every ability he has when on the court. When he fouled out yesterday instead of whining or complaining, Russ said Peyton calmed him down and encouraged him that he could lead the team on the floor. There is no rivalry - no one is fighting for the spotlight. It's Peyton's team to lead on the floor, and when he goes down it's Russ next in line. This team is not one of superstars, although it definitely has talent. I'm not sure if these guys have NBA futures, but they have college basketball's holy grail before them and they are going as a team. They do not have a roster of one and done college athletes. They do not have a roster of names that are mentioned every day in the press. They have a cohesive unit that respects one another, that plays well together, and that are always learning even through the course of the game. Pitino said on SportsCenter that he told Chane they couldn't win with the way he was playing defense. Chane looked him in the eyes and said it won't happen again - and then Chane became the MVP. A great team, a great coach, another Final Four trip and perhaps more this time.

I sadly won't be going to the Final Four in New Orleans. No longer a student, I have actual adult responsibilities that say spending that much money on a ticket isn't in my budget. Not to mention I have issues with ever stepping foot in the Superdome after Hurricane Katrina. It's funny that the last time Louisville went to the Final Four I was actually living in New Orleans, and now they are going there for it. I have a lot of respect for the city and wish it the best in its ever still recovering state, but after I left due to Hurricane Katrina I've only been back once to get my belongings. People love it down there, but I'm not sure I can bring myself to go back. But I will be routing from New York for my cardinals and hoping for the best.

GO CARDS!
#L1C4
#CardNation

Big East Champs!

The other night Louisville won their second Big East Championship in four years and I was lucky enough to be in attendance. A life long Louisville fan and new resident of New York couldn't have asked for a better first experience at the Big East Tournament. I had been wanting to go to this event since the Cardinals joined the Big East and I relocated back to the East Coast to finish law school. However, it never seemed like I had the finances to make the trip to New York from Washington, DC and buy the tickets to attend. However, last year on the day Louisville would meet UCONN in the finals of the Big East I found myself wandering the streets of New York in not such high spirits. I came up here for the day to look at one apartment in Chelsea. I was hoping to see more, but they fell through. I felt like I was essentially wasting my time and energy with this trip, I believe it was my third time up to search the city for a place to call home. My lease in Maryland ended on April 2nd. It was almost half way through March, and I was scared that I wouldn't have a place to live on April 3rd. Not only was I concerned about my living situation, I was deeply concerned about my finances. I was unemployed for the first time in three and half years. I do contract legal work and my last assignment that seemed like it may last forever finally came to a close and now I was awaiting a new one. Although I was hopeful to begin working again in the next week, the new job meant less money and less hours. Here I was trying to move to one of the most expensive cities around - a pay cut just didn't work for my plan.

Trying to not get discouraged I made my way over to Chelsea, just a little south of wear my Cardinals would take the floor later that day against the Huskies. The apartment was small and cute, but not for me. What a waste of a trip I thought to myself as I tried to figure out what to do with he rest of the time I was in New York. That's when it occurred to me that I could go to the game and then this trip to New York would be so worth it. I walked into the Madison Square Garden box office and never made it to the ticket window. I overheard $90 tickets for upper level seats and paced for a few minutes before I walked out. My friend offered to lend me the money and apart of me just wanted to go to escape the present stress in my life. But I wasn't the same person I was a few years ago. I resisted impulse purchases more and knew that spending $90 on a ticket that wasn't a necessity right now was irresponsible. I walked away from Madison Square Garden disappointed that I was going to miss Louisville playing in the finals of an event I'd had been wanting to go to. I kept telling myself that I'll move to New York and will be able to go to the tournament next year. I got on the bus, headed south, and got home in time to watch Louisville lose to UCONN. UCONN went on to win 6 more games in a row to become the National Champions.

A week later I found an apartment and on April 2nd I left what had been my home for quite some time behind and started a new life in New York. And this year when the Big East tournament came around I kept the promise I made to myself the prior year when I felt like I may have missed out on a great experience, and bought a ticket to the first game Louisville played in the tournament. I told myself I would go to the first game, maybe the semi-finals, and definitely the finals if they made it. At the first game I was grateful to be there and even more grateful they pulled out a victory over Seton Hall, but it wasn't an exciting game. I couldn't watch the quarterfinals and couldn't afford to go to the semi-finals. Thanks to Syracuse's presence in the semi-finals the ticket prices were just too much for me, so I found myself doing something I don't believe I've ever done - cheer for the Cincinnati Bearcats. Cincinnati has been a rival of ours as long as I can remember. We played against them in the Metro Conference and Conference USA. Then we both made the upgrade to the Big East at the same time. As I walked home from the subway I checked the score on my phone - the game couldn't end quick enough and of course conveniently my phone's Internet couldn't move quick enough as well. Finally I see the word "Final" and look at the score. The first part of what I needed to happen did - Syracuse lost. I knew if Louisville could pull out win a Cincinnati v. Louisville final game would be affordable for my budget. So I went home and watched the game, nervous as ever for my team. Then as they started to pull away in the second half I went online to purchase my ticket. My first ticket purchase didn't go so well so around 11 AM on the day of the championship game I had to cancel my ticket. Then I went searching through Stubhub for a new ticket. I knew I wanted to sit as close as possible and was lucky enough to find a seat available in section 2 on the floor behind the basket. I could hardly focus all day. It almost felt like I was child again - getting excited before I ventured off to Freedom Hall to see the Cardinals play. I have been to a lot of great games - beating Kentucky, beating UNC, winning the Conference USA tournament at Freedom Hall, and even our last appearance in the Final Four. But there is something special about Big East basketball (until next year thanks to college football when the league loses some great teams)and playing in Madison Square Garden. I went to a Louisville basketball game earlier this year in MSG, but the atmosphere wasn't like the college basketball atmosphere I was used to back in Louisville. I knew this finals match up though would be different. Louisville and Cincinnati are both college basketball towns and I knew the arena would be filled with people ready to support their teams. I got to MSG a little early and watched the Cincinnati band perform for a bit outside. Then as I waited for them to allow people into the stands I watched and tried to pick out fellow Louisville fans. I quickly recognized our point guard's father and saw people approach him with what I would guess would be congratulations and kind words about his son Peyton Siva. I even saw one couple go up and have their picture taken with Siva's dad. Now I have seen many players in Louisville become famous in the city, but Siva seems to have reached a whole new level of fame when his fans want pictures with his father.

After about twenty minutes or so of waiting finally we were allowed into the arena. I had some time to kill before the game tipped off so I went and found my seat and walked around. I game back in to watch some of the pregame warm ups and of course the announcing of the lineups. I cheered with my fellow Louisville fans as loud as a could, clapping as hard as a could. The game was nerve racking to say the least. There were moments when I buried my face into my hands thinking please don't blow this, its almost over. There were moments when all I could think was why is Russ Smith in the game right now, followed shortly by cheering "Come on Russ make the free throws!" There were moments when I couldn't help but jump up out of my chair and applaud the effort from my team like the old fashioned three point play by Chane Behanan, after which he turned to the crowd behind the basket - the basket I was sitting behind - and screamed. You have to appreciate the effort and enthusiasm as a fan. There was the moments I held my breath as Chris Smith came crashing down on the hardwood court or as Peyton got mulled falling out of bounds by a guy who seemed like giant compared to his frame. But as the final buzzer sounded and the bright lights around the backboards lite up what appeared to be the same color as our infrared uniforms and the clock read 0.0 the excitement couldn't be contained. Everyone decked out in Cardinal insignia were on their feet and the players smiled and cheered. It was a moment I'll never forget in all of my sporting event moments. In a night when the Midwest/Ohio Valley area invaded MSG my Cardinals hoisted up a navy blue banner with bold white letters reading Big East Champions. My Cardinals walked across the stage to receive the watches they were given my the Big East - well everyone except Dieng whom they seem to have forgotten. It was a night where our two seniors, Chris Smith and Kyle Kuric, stepped up and led the team in points. It was a tournament where Siva silenced the critics - even amongst his own fans - and showed that yes he can lead this team as he was carried up to accept his tournament MVP award on a teammate's shoulders. It was another amazing night in New York for me thanks to a little piece of my hometown. I couldn't resist buying the official championship t-shirt on the way out and wore it the next day even though team t-shirts aren't really the style I'm trying to showcase walking around the city. For one day I didn't care - I was so proud and still so excited.

A year ago I was disappointed and felt a little defeated that I had to miss Louisville's appearance in the Big East final and was starting to wonder if I could really find a place in New York to make it my home. A year later I got to go watch them play in the finals with a much better outcome then the prior year in the city that is now my home. On a night where so many things I love came into one how could I not be so grateful and so blessed for all that I have been given and all the opportunities I have been afforded. It's just a game I realize, but for me it seemed to symbolize so much. Because I no longer live in Louisville it doesn't mean I have to stop loving the things I love about the city I was born and raised in. I will always be a Cardinals fan. It also taught me that the simple joy you felt as child can still be ever present as an adult. And some things just tend to find a way to work out in the end.

Congratulations to my Cardinals team and good luck in the NCAA tournament.

My Favorite ...

No matter who puts on a the red, white, and black jersey as a basketball player for the University of Louisville my favorite player will never change. To this day DeJuan Wheat is indisputably my favorite basketball player of all time. I remember going to the exhibition game against Puerto Rico his senior year. The game didn't count as far as the team record went, but I was still excited to be there. As I sat with my family in nearly the last row of the Freedom Hall stands I watched his every move for about five minutes. They took Wheat out of the game after that. I was so dissappointed. Later I found out he was pulled because he had a cut that needed stitches in his lip. I guess that was a valid reason, but my thirteen year old self felt like I was ripped off. That season I went to five more games because my family had a five game ticket package, but it didn't include senior night. And because DeJuan Wheat and Alvin Sims were so popular among the fans there last home game as Cardinals was sold out. My so-called friend Andrea got tickets though, but passed on inviting me. I wasn't popular and she wanted a more popular friend to take with her, dispite the face that my parents bought her a ticket to the end of the season basketball banquet. So I watched Wheat's last home game in front of the TV and not there clapping for him until my hands hurt like I should have been.

Then the was the sweet 16 game against Texas. Texas had a great guard in Reggie Freeman (I think that was his name), but we had Wheat - well until he sprained his ankle. Watching Wheat leave the game in Andrea's room in the attic of her house, everyone waited and hoped for his return. When Wheat finally appeared from the locker room his ankle was wrapped up so much, it was clear that there would be no more Wheat in this game. His career couldn't end like this was all that could think. Apparently the his teammates felt the same way and Alvin Sims led them to victory. As myself, Andrea, and our other friends ran outside to celebrate - WE ARE GOING TO THE ELITE EIGHT!!! - everyone counted Wheat out of the ensuing match up with North Carolina. This was the Carolina team that included Antwan Jamison, Vince Carter, and Brandon Haywood. We needed Wheat. And Megan - another friend - stated that her dad said Wheat would not play. I argued the opposite - he will play I stated as if I had just had a personal conversation with him. But I knew. I knew he would play. Two days later it was game day and Wheat was listed as a game time decision. But I still knew. I knew he would play. There would be no start for BJ Flynn, that was Wheat's spot. Sure enough when the game started number 32 was on the court. Sadly though even the presence of our best player wasn't enough to contend with the superstar power of the Tar Heels that year. I sat in my room watching the game on my small 13 inch TV by myself. In my lab sat my Cardinal media guide for the basketball team. It was if it was my basketball bible and I was praying, hoping that this would not be the last of DeJuan Wheat in my life.

The season was over, but I still had the basketball banquet to look forward to. I got their early to get autographs. Look there's Alex Sanders. Oh hey its Nate Johnson. No sign of DeJuan Wheat or Alvin Sims. As the banquet started I again felt ripped off as I told my mother I wanted a partial refund as the two best players weren't even here. Then the not shut doors opened and in walked Wheat. I was elated. After the banquet ended I stood in line to meet him. I got his autograph and took a picture with him. I still have that picture. Then that summer I watched him play in pick up games and got to meet Wheat and his fellow senior classmates again. And even after Wheat left and became a member of the Minnesota Timberwolves I got one more meeting with him at Cardinal Arena thanks to my sister and Wiley Brown. I felt so special - a private gathering with my favorite player just for me. I still have that picture from that day too. Along with an autographer #32 Louisville jersey that my parents have held captive in their basement area dedicated to Louisville memoribilia.

And even though it has been quite a while since DeJuan Wheat played for Louisville, my answer has never waivered if you ask me about my favorite player of all time. I was so excited to finally hear that Wheat was getting the recogniziation he finally deserved this year by the university. I have always advocated for his to be honored. It saddened me though that I couldn't be there to celebrate that moment.

Baseball Season is on the Way

Football season ended for me when the Eagles and Jets failed to make it into the playoffs. I'll watch the Super Bowl, but honestly who would I cheer for. It's like the lesser of two evils for me - it's comparable to watching the Phillies vs. the Yankees in the World Series. The only reason I'm even saying I'd go for the Patriots is because as an Eagles fan to cheer for the Giants would probably get me banned from being an Eagles Fan and because Deion Branch went to the University of Louisville. With all that said I'm looking forward to baseball season - I think? WIth the loss of Jose Reyes (it still pains me to think that Reyes is no longer a Met) and what appears to be the eventual trade of David Wright at some point the Mets I fell in love with are no longer there. My first favorite baseball player - Carlos Beltran - is now a member of the team he took a third strike on with the bat on his shoulder to end the Mets playoff run (although I'm not one of those Mets fan that take issue with him over that - I didn't watch baseball then), the heart and soul of the team has moved on and taken his talents to South Beach, and David - poor David - will have to deal with trade questions all year, as if he hasn't bared the burden of answering the difficult questions to the media since he first came up. But with all that said I still love the Mets - I can't stop no matter how much on paper the season may look like a wash I refuse to not support them and I refuse to not cheer for them. I'll go to games - how could I not? Being at the baseball park can be such a great atmosphere. However, I do not support the ownership of the team and wish they would sell it. They claim to love the Mets, but I think they are ruining them.

Despite how the Mets may look on paper, there are a few things I'm looking forward to seeing this year. I'm excited to hopefully see Johan return. I'm also interested to see if bringing in the walls will actually help Wright and Bay. I love Ruben Tejada, even if he isn't Jose Reyes, so I'm anxious too see how he will fill those shoes as the short stop for the New York Mets.

And finally, the thing about sports is that anyone can be beaten on any given day - here's hoping the Mets find ways to win and prove critics wrong. I think Ike Davis says it best in his text to Daniel Murphy from an article on ESPN: "Let's go dominate." For more on Daniel Murphy check out the full article at http://www.washingtonpost.com/national/health-science/planned-parenthood-says-komen-decision-causes-donation-spike/2012/02/01/gIQAGLsxiQ_story.html?tid=pm_national_pop

Recommended Link on the NCAA

Here is story from The New York Times the other day. http://www.nytimes.com/2012/01/21/opinion/nocera-guilty-until-proved-innocent.html?hp

My Take on the NCAA:

The NCAA has proven to be in love with abusing power. There are too many arbitrary rules. The NCAA is too held fast to ideas of players being amateurs and protecting that status, and doesn't worry enough about making the student-athlete a STUDENT. Financial interests or the regulation of financial matters and personal relationships do not increase graduation rates. They do not encourage and promote academic achievement in the classroom. They do not propel people into careers if sports do not work out. What these rules do is offer one body a chance to regulate and control a whole population of people in a way that at times is unjust, unfair, and completely wrong.

There are so many arbitrary rules that most colleges are probably committing some violation at some point. The NCAA investigates who it wants to investigate whenever they want to. Then the ultimate people who are punished are the actual players. Whether they are forced to pay back money to a family friend - someone that was around long before UCONN came calling - or may be denied a scholarship after all because the NCAA has stripped the school of some of their scholarships because of something someone else did.

My question to the NCAA is what about the people that oversee and are probably the masterminds behind the rule pending and the rule violations? Take John Calipari - he has left two programs with possible NCAA violations behind, yet he keeps being allowed to coach. In fact not only has he been allowed to coach, but he has been allowed to move up in the coaching ranks. When does he get suspended? Shouldn't the coaches be regulated by the NCAA as well? I know that some coaches have been fired, but that usually comes from the school as a hopeful measure that the NCAA will see they took some action. But shouldn't Calipari with a questionable past involving NCAA issues or players with NCAA issues be suspended or banned at the hands of the NCAA. He is the person that is supposed to be setting the example - teaching the players he coaches. Yet he doesn't always follow the rules and he is okay - he is better than okay - he keeps getting a better job.

Support for R.A. Dickey

I've read a lot the last couple of days about the Mets asking R.A. Dickey not to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro. I understand the business point of view the Mets have to take - they don't want one of their starting pitchers to get hurt. However, as a Met fan I fully support Dickey's decision to continue on with his charitable journey, as he is climbing to raise money for the Bombay Teen Challenge and raise awareness about sex trafficing. Is there a chance he could get injured? Of course, but doesn't that chance exist with everything anyone does? Will it hurt the team if he can't play? Of course it will. However, as far as I have heard and read he has properly trained for this climb and understands what it takes to make the trek. I think it will be an even more powerful statement if he continues in the face of the Mets requests to not go. I think it shows that baseball and sports in general is not the most important thing in the world. In this country especially professional athletes are worshipped for their scoring average, home run total, or passing yards. Then at times their off the field work is appreciated. But here is an athlete that we know loves and respects the game as much as anyone else saying he wants to be more than a baseball player - he wants to make a difference even if it could impact his baseball career. I think the Mets should be supportive. I'm sure if making the trek up the mountain has an impact on his contract Dickey has been properly advised about it. The Mets have made their feelings known. Now if he says I understand and wants to continue the Mets should applaud his efforts and wish him the best. It's the right thing to do. They should be so lucky to have such a man represent their team.

No Rush to Judgment on Braun

Ryan Braun is the quintessential good guy in sports. It also doesn't hurt that he is a good looking guy too. People seem to like him and as far as his character has been displayed on and off the field he has always been thought of to be a class act. So when news broke last weekend that Braun had failed MLB's drug test, the whole baseball community was in shock. When it happened to A-Rod I think people believed he did it, but didn't want to. Manny Rameriz faced a similar reaction. People just wanted them to be clean for the sake of the game. However, I think the reaction afforded Braun is less judgmental and leaning towards the idea that this must be a mistake. I think the public and even the often news hungry, quick to crucify media have all stood back in the days after the news broke to press pause and wait for Braun's side of the story to come out through the appeals process. This is how stories like this should be handled, but often it isn't. Our society is usually quick to judge, but for some reason Braun gets some room to say listen first. Perhaps it's his accolades that make us respect his position more - he is the reigning NL MVP. Or perhaps its the way he handles himself on and off the field that makes the public and media' pause. He handled Jose Reyes' bunt and exit to win the NL batting title like a true professional when everyone else complained. As for off the field, it has been said that is does a lot for the community. Looking at both these reasons, it seems as if the latter reason would be the prevailing reason the public and media are giving Braun some time to be heard. A-Rod and Ramirez were both stellar baseball players, but their attitudes and even some of their actions were not looked upon favorably.

Time will tell though as the appeal process goes on as to whether Braun failed the drug test. Although, even a failed test isn't indicative of any intentional wrong doing. Perhaps he took something with a banned substance in it without knowing. Unfortunately, this isn't a defense unless what he took happens to the be on the very specific list of items deemed to be safe by MLB for players to use. It's unfortunate whatever the result is, for Braun will always have to answer questions for the rest of his playing career about this matter. Also, it's unfortunate for this team because they may lose the superstar they just invested a lot of money in for 50 games. And it's unfortunate for the sport deemed to be America's Past Time because it yet again takes a hit concerning cleaning up the game and its end product - talent and competition.

Reyes Watch is Over

It is being reported now that the Miami Marlins and Jose Reyes have reached an agreement for 6 years and $106 million. Sandy Alderson, Mets GM, has acknowledged this evening that they could not compete with the Marlins latest offer. He also stated that they were not contemplating trading David Wright. With that said, Wright now becomes the longest tenured Met. It appears the by stating this Alderson is hoping to keep fan interest by retaining one of the two superstars on the team. However, there has been no talk of offering Wright an extension this off-season other than ideas posed by Met writers/bloggers.

It will be interesting to see what the Mets decide to do now as far as free agents are concerned. They are clearly in the market for a closer and it was even mentioned earlier that they may have reached out to Francisco Rodriquez's (K-Rod) people. Also it is thought that they will seek other arms for the bullpen. As the starting rotation goes it seems pretty set with Johan Santana, Mike Pelfrey, John Niese, RA Dickey, and Dillion Gee. However, with Pelfrey having a less than par year and the question of how Santana will be bounce back from injury there is also an option to seek another started for the rotation. It's unfortunate that Chris Capuano just signed a two year deal with the Dodgers. Perhaps the Mets could have retained them with the money they were reserving for Reyes. The other big question seems to be second base. It has been thought for awhile that if Reyes were to leave Ruben Tejada would take over at shortstop and Daniel Murphy would be the primary second baseman with Justin Turner filling in at time. However, there are a couple of problems with this lineup. Murphy has already had his knees injured twice while playing second base. Also, they have to have someone on the team that can back up shortstop which would mean that would be caring two middle infielders on the bench because Turner probably can't back up shortstop except occasionally. Also, Alderson has already said that Murphy was available for trade decisions so it will be interesting to see who opens up next spring at second base.

With Reyes departure it appears that the Mets organization got one of their many off-season questions answered, but definitely not the answer they wanted. But there are still many more questions that remain and hopefully with the biggest issue now closed the organization can move ahead with other matters.

Say It Ain't So Jose ...

ESPN Deportes is reporting that the Miami Marlins have offered Jose Reyes a 6 year deal worth $111 million. If this report is true it appears that Reyes will not be returning to the Mets. It was around this time last year that I woke up early in the morning to see that Cliff Lee had signed with the Phillies - horrible news. But tomorrow if I wake to see Reyes will be taking the field next year in the horrendous uniforms with Miami across his chest it will probably be the worst sports news I have ever received. Growing up a college sports fan players generally leave on good terms - or at least the players that mattered. DeJuan Wheat wore out his eligibility. Fransisco Garcia was given Rick Pitino's blessing to leave early - he was ready and he needed to take of his family. The list could go on and on. And sure I missed them when the left, but it was expected. Professional sports though is a different game altogether. I have been an Eagles fan since college, but even when Donovan McNabb was traded I wasn't sad. I was hoping that Michael Vick would ultimately take over the quarterback role, even though Kevin Kolb was slated to (and eventually Vick did). I claimed to be a 76ers fan, but really I was just an Allen Iverson fan. When Iverson left I lost interest. But the Mets - I love the Mets. And since I've only been watching for about four years to me I can't imagine a Mets team without Jose Reyes. Reyes was by far the most exciting player on the team and without his presence I can't imagine what the team will be like. It has often been said that if David Wright is the face of the franchise, Reyes is the heart and soul. It will be hard to sit at Citifield and never see number 7 lead-off the bottom of the first inning. It will be hard to see Ruben Tejada take the field every day at short stop. But it will probably be the hardest to see him at Citifield sitting in the visitor's dugout. I understand professional sports is a business, but its hard not to love certain players. I was sad when Carlos Beltran left, but I knew it was coming. Reyes is different though. He has the longest tenure as a Met. His name is all over the record book. He is a special player - it would just be nice if he continued to shine under the bright lights of New York. But I guess there is still room for a little hope. He hasn't signed anywhere yet, but even I - the most optimistic Met fan - am thinking that the Jose Reyes Saga is about to come to end and it's not going to be a happy one for me and the rest of the Mets fans.

Op-Ed on the Concept of the Student-Athlete

When I signed up to tutor student-athletes at the age of eighteen at Temple I was handed a paper to sign. The paper listed a bunch of rules and regulations on the sheet. I don't remember them all, but I remember there was a list of things you couldn't give a student-athlete including birthday cards. Weary of creating an NCAA violation I asked a girl in my class for a book I lent her back because she was on the volleyball team. I felt silly asking for it back, but at the time I took my job seriously. My boss told me that they never really hire incoming freshman, so I felt like I was being given an opportunity that normally wouldn't exist. I tried my best to led many student-athletes to a path of achieving a good education. Sometimes this meant going above and beyond simply checking their work. I created practice exams and even entertained group tutoring sessions in study hall. Sometimes though I think I was too helpful, as one time a football player tried to tell people he had a 24 hour tutor. Because the guy was for the most part nice and respectful, I laughed it off and treated it like a joke. I was dedicated though because as much as I believed in my own ability to be successful I also believed in other's ability just as much.

Not only did I try to do the best job possible, I also loved it. I grew up loving sports and being a part of the athletic program at Temple made me feel like I was a part of something. Plus being a tutor allowed some insight into the world of college athletics - especially one of the money making sports - football, as I primarily worked with the football team. Even at a school where college athletics isn't a big time program priorities still remained on sports for certain students, while academic concerns were a facade. I remember during spring practice for football the coach called out players for their outstanding work on the practice field. What the coach failed to realize or cared to realize was that some of the players he rewarded with acknowledgement were barely staying eligible. In fact some of them were on their way out the door thanks to Temple's deficiency point system and NCAA academic standards. And many of the players had complaints about the requirements and the lack of help their football status was giving them. Some were mad that their coach didn't have more relationships with professors to give them passing grades. One player complained that no one was checking up on his attendance in class. Another player said the deficiency point program was created to target and rid the school of football players. Many of these players failed to take responsibility for their own actions. Many failed at school. And although I cannot defend these players inability to study and do the work on their own, I think part of the blame lies with the NCAA and athletic departments and universities themselves for creating a culture of entitlement and power. Many of these players felt that because they were Division I football players they deserved to be treated the stereotypical way other athletes in Division I football were treated - the rumored preferential treatments of the players at places like USC, Notre Dame, etc.

And the rumors have proven to be true often. But the truth goes beyond the rumors. Not only are players and coaches aware of preferential treatment there appears to be a vow of silence among schools to keep what they know to themselves no matter how wrong the information is. I've heard rumors of a lack of warning for positive drug testing, players passing course work down from team member to team member, etc. Coaches know what goes on, but they pretend not to hear. They don't want to out their players and have problems with winning on the field. They ignore the practices that are harming the student, but propelling the athlete. We've seen these actions at Miami and Ohio State. They are disappointing and unfair to the people that played by the rules. The rules everyone, even myself pledged to follow. And what does the NCAA due with such violation of rules, they decide how best to handle it without causing themselves any undue hardship - which means so it has as little impact on their money as possible. It was always funny the OSU players got to the play in the bowl game last year, but if they returned they would be punished. Does that sentence really seem to be for the student-athlete? It appears to create a disincentive to return to college and head off to the NFL, where not everyone makes it and most of the contract money isn't guaranteed.

I think the NCAA and college athletic departments miss their marks often. I care about the student part of the student-athlete. But my arguments in this debate on the concept of the student-athlete aren't often understood or heard because the NCAA and college athletic departments don't seem to care about the student-athlete. Sure they have rules, but some of these rules seem more like an exercise of power rather than putting the student first and giving these students a chance to make something of themselves other than athletes.

Of course there are always exceptions to these ideas. There are obviously some places that do focus on the building of young people's character and propelling them for the future. For example, at my Alma Mater John Chaney had a history of taking local kids onto this basketball team. Sure they were still talented, but they weren't the top recruits necessarily. He invested in the whole person, not just the talent. All coaches, athletic departments, and the almighty self governing NCAA need to be on the same page, especially when it comes to athletes of the two big money making sports - football and basketball. There are only so many spots in the NBA and NFL and I've heard too many guys talk about how they should be in the league, are going to make it in the league, and deserved to be in the league. I don't discourage their dreams. I think dreams are a crucial part of life, but I do encourage plan B - when handed a free education take advantage of it. And I encourage that they surround themselves with people that only believe in their potential on the field, but off the field and this group of people should include their coaches and other parties guiding their athletic opportunities. I know I did my part. I'm happy to say I positively affected at least a few people's educational aspirations.

Freedom Hall Flashback

I have yet to walk the halls of the KFC Yum Center. I hope this college basketball season I will get a chance to go to a game there even though the name and logo on the outside of the building is horrible. I still think "The Bucket" would have been a better choice. However, being immersed around fans of the other team when I watch the Cardinals play on the rode isn't as fun as being among my fellow Cardinal fans. I miss the C-A-R-D-S cheers and the introductions of the players as everyone stands, claps, and cheers - the best player always getting the loudest ovation.

Although I haven't been to a home game in a few years, I have so many great memories of the days the Cardinals took the court at Freedom Hall. Trying to decide my favorite memory ever at Freedom Hall is difficult. I watched some great games there and also battled through some tough losing seasons. I wasn't at the game when Reece Gaines scored like 10 points in less than 30 seconds against Tennessee. I was there to see Reece Gaines and the rest of the team win the Conference USA championship though. I was also there for Gaines' senior night. I was there for a few of the games during Taquan and Francisco's years of dominance. I wasn't there for DeJuan Wheat's last home game which was disappointing, but I was there when he got injured in an exhibition game and I was angry that I only got to see him play for about five minutes. I was there for at least one victory over rival Kentucky.

All these moments were certainly great, but my most vivid memories are less about the outcome of the game and more about some specific event during or after the game. I remember when we beat Carolina and the coach - I don't remember his name - was a former assistant who had taken over for the legendary Dean Smith after he retired. North Carolina played a horrible game and afterwards as the press conference played on the large screen hanging over the middle of the court the coach looked defeated. He took the blame for everything. I remember after we beat Kentucky I was so excited I saw Hajj Turner walking through the tunnel and ran over and said hi and he remembered who I was (and thats a story for another day). After another Kentucky game I remember walking right past Saul Smith - one of my least favorite Kentucky players. Then there was the time my sister walked under the rope around the court to go ask Nate Johnson for his autograph as he sat on the bench during warm-ups. When I tried to follow her I of course got stopped by security. But I have to say my most intense memory and probably my all time favorite visual from Freedom Hall was during the first game I ever went to Samaki Walker stood at mid court on the Cardinal logo waving him long arms up and down encouraging the fans to make some noise. I can close my eyes and still see him there, white uniform, #52 in red on it, as the other players stood around the free throw line.

That game would be the only game I ever got to see Samaki Walker play in person at the University of Louisville. He left to chase an NBA dream and probably avoid any more NCAA problems. I tried to follow his NBA career and last I heard I believe he got into some legal trouble. But I can ignore all those things and remember him in that one moment. In that moment he was my favorite player - even over DeJuan Wheat for that season. How good would the team had been the next year if he had stayed - the year we made it to the Elite Eight and lost to North Carolina? Alex Sanders was the center. He was decent, but he was no Samaki Walker. Had be stayed our team would have been amazing - Walker, Wheat, Alvin Sims, Damien Dantzler, and Nate Johnson if my memory serves me correctly. But he didn't come back and sports, as well as life in general, is always full of what ifs. But thank you Samaki for that one moment, that great first memory of Freedom Hall.

J-Roll

J-Roll ... Jimmy Rollins ... baseball player ... aspiring music producer ... Jose Reyes wannabe. Jimmy Rollins seems to always be worried about what the Mets are doing, especially Jose Reyes. Rollins made some comments coming into the playoffs about Reyes' now infamous bunt single incident to end his season and possibly his career with the Mets. Reyes, in case you didn't know, was competing against Ryan Braun for the NL batting title. On the last day of the season Reyes played a day game, got a hit at his first at bat, and then left the game. Braun didn't play until later and he had every chance to take the lead from Reyes, but he ended up not getting a hit at all. Braun has since texted Reyes to congratulate him and has repeatedly said he has no problem with what Reyes did. So why does Rollins? Because Rollins has a problem with anything Reyes does. Years ago Phillies players complained that Reyes "pimps" his homeruns. Reyes isn't a homerun hitter, so I'm not sure how often the Phillies see this occur. What they do see occur is a talented athlete play hard and have fun doing it. He isn't showing off or being arrogant - he is being Jose Reyes. Wouldn't we all like it if we had a job we loved? Perhaps Rollins doesn't understand Reyes' love for the game because maybe he doesn't have that love for baseball. But regardless no player should judge another player, especially one they know nothing about.

For the most part, Rollins always sounds jealous of Reyes. And he should be jealous. There is a free agent market that will begin shortly - Reyes and Rollins are the top short stops in the mix. Rollins has been busy making negative statements about Reyes to boost his free agency appeal. And thats fine - Reyes doesn't need to do that. Reyes has for the most part been out the limelight since the season ended (well except for his nude photo shot as part of ESPN's body issue). Part of the reason of course is the Mets are not in the playoffs, but despite that he is one of the big name free agents about to hit the market and everyone - well everyone that loves the Mets - is just waiting to see what happens.

As for Rollins plans to put a negative image of Reyes out there, it may back fire. If you are busy trash talking a player in a situation that had nothing to do with you and has nothing to do with the series you are about to play in it makes you look a little petty and a little classless. Yes trash talking is part of sports, but his comments were not needed and again the NL batting title had nothing to do with him. Professionals say "Congratulations" and move on - they don't harp on a player just to make themselves look good. Not to mention although both Rollins and Reyes are the top names in their position for the free agent market there are two different markets. There will be the market of teams that will throw a lot of money at Reyes and then when Reyes signs there will be teams that need a short stop that make an offer to Rollins - an offer that will be less years and less money. Rollins is the second choice, unless a team that needs a new short stop can't make an offer for Reyes.

And just one final note ... Rollins was asked in an interview if he would be interested in coming to New York. Well the Yankees have a short stop in Jeter and he isn't going anywhere next year. If the Mets don't resign Reyes, the job is Ruben Tejada's. So there is no spot in New York for Rollins, but even if there was he isn't welcome here anyway. Thanks, but no thanks.

Vote: Who Will Win the World Series?

The playoffs begin today with two AL match-ups: Tigers vs. Yankees and Rays vs. Rangers. The NL teams take the field tomorrow. With an exciting finish to the regular season lets see if the playoffs can provide similar intrigue leading up to the World Series. Many people predict that the Phillies will take it all with a starting pitching rotation that is the best in the league, with the pitching staff leading all of Major League Baseball with an ERA of 3.02. However, one can't forget that the playoffs are full of great, quality players that can be difference makers. There are 13 players in the playoffs that have 30 or more home runs, which means with one crack of the bat they can change the whole direction of the game. The Rangers and Yankees statistically may be the most offensively powered teams. The Rangers lead all of Major League Baseball in batting average, are second in slugging, third in runs scored, second in home runs, and third in RBIs. The Yankees lead in home runs, are second in runs scored, and third in slugging percentage. But statistics aren't always indicative of success - the Red Sox lead in runs scored, hits, and RBIs, and with all of that they couldn't make it to the playoffs. Teams need more than offensive power to win - they need smart defense and good pitching - a complete team effort. Plus, in sports anyone can be beaten on any given night. Anything is possible. Even AJ Burnett can pitch a good game every once in a while.

So vote for World Series pick below and leave a comment with why you picked your team. Thanks!

World Series Prediction: Who do you think will win?

Jose Reyes: The Champ

After yesterdays bunt single to give Jose Reyes a batting average of .337, Ryan Braun took the field later that day against the Pittsburgh Pirates and went 0-4 with a batting average of .332. Reyes won the NL batting title and released a statement saying:

"I just want to say I’m humbled and honored to win the batting title. It means so much to my family and my country, the Dominican Republic. I have been through a lot over the past few years so this really means a lot to me. It’s also very special to be the first Mets player to win a batting title. There have been so many great players throughout our history. I want to thank Terry Collins, my coaches and all my teammates and of course all the Mets fans who have always supported me and been behind me 100 percent.”

CONGRATULATIONS JOSE REYES!

I would also like to add that I have no problem with Jose wanting to leave the game after he got the bunt single. Reyes has never been one to disappoint the fans, he plays his hardest when he is out on the field. If he felt like this was that important to him than as a fan, a fan that went to Citifield yesterday solely to watch him play, I respect his decision. He has given so much to the fans with his exciting play and love for the game that I think people shouldn't complain about his decision. He deserved this, he was entitled to make his choice. I respect his decision, I think he is an amazing athlete, and am happy that he becomes the first player in Mets history to win a batting title - now come back and do it next year.

Wow What a Night

Last night and slightly into this morning baseball was at its best. As the final games of the season ended just after midnight, the Wild Card winners were much different than what had been expected at the beginning of the month.

Boston suffered the biggest collapse ever and will be spending their post-season at home. In a season where they got off to a bad start losing their first five games, then went on at times to lead their division, they finished third in the AL East. Their primary problem was pitching. John Lackey, who they signed a $82.5 million contract for 5 years in December of 2009, had the worst year of his career with an ERA of 6.41 - more than two points higher than his career average of 4.10. But even with the pitching problems there is one mainstay in their bullpen - Jonathan Papelbon. And last night with a 3-2 lead the Red Sox handed him the ball in the bottom of the ninth, and to their disappointment Papelbon blew his third save of the year.

As for the other side of the AL Wild Card the Tampa Bay Rays came from behind in the wild card race and took the lead when it mattered - on the last day of the regular season. During game 162 the Rays were down 7 - 0 to the Yankees and it looked like their only chance to get to the playoffs would be if Boston would lose and then the Rays would have to beat them in game 163. It wasn't looking good for the Rays for most of the games. Then suddenly the Rays mounted a ferocious comeback in the eighth and ninth innings that included the 30th home run of the year by Evan Longoria. And the game stayed tied with every baseball fan anxiously waiting until the bottom of the twelfth when Longoria hit his second home run of the night - 31st of the year - that stayed slightly fair win the game for the Rays.

If the AL Wild Card wasn't exciting enough for you there was also an NL Wild Card battle going on. The Atlanta Braves, the team that lead the Wild Card coming into the month, was playing divisional opponent the Philadelphia Phillies. The Braves took the lead in the bottom of the third inning 3-1, but the Phillies came back with runs in the seventh and ninth innings to tie the game up. The Braves offense never resurged after that third inning lead and the Phillies won the game in the thirteenth inning thanks to an RBI single by Hunter Pence. The crucial point of the game though came in the ninth inning when the rookie closer, Craig Kimbrel, experienced one of his worst outings of the year walking three and giving up the tying run, ultimately blowing his eighth save of the year.

Since the Braves couldn't hold on to the lead, the St. Louis Cardinals took the NL Wild Card with a fairly easy victory over the Houston Astros winning 8-0.

What made last night so remarkable besides the down to the wire finishes and extra innings was the teams involved in the games. In one game you had one team fighting to get into the playoffs against one team that already locked in the top spot of their league. With nothing to play for the Phillies didn't just rest and let the Braves them. They played as they did every other game this year - like it mattered. And as for the Baltimore Orioles - they played their hearts out against the Red Sox knowing that no matter what the outcome is they weren't going anywhere after that game. Teams play for pride every day of the year, even if that victory doesn't lead them to the postseason. Congrats to the victors of the Wild Card for battling a long season down to the very end. As for the teams with the biggest Wild Card collapses ever in their respective leagues, the Red Sox and Braves, see you in 2012.

And for those reading this that may not watch baseball and believe it is boring or slow - you missed an amazing day in sports yesterday.

An Emotional Day at Citifield ... Please Stay Jose!

Last night I stood in my front of my TV in my studio apartment in the East Village jumping up with my hands in the air then clapping repeatedly for Jose Reyes as he hit his second home run of the night and gave the fans a curtain call. I wished so badly I had gone to the game. This morning I woke up and took the long subways ride, taking the 6 and 7 trains, to Flushing, Queens because I wanted to be there to see Reyes in case it's the last time he wears a Mets uniform. As I sat on the subway the thoughts of a possible departure by Reyes brought up the same feelings I had when my favorite player ever to play at the University of Louisville, DeJuan Wheat, left. For Wheat's final season at Louisville my parents got a ticket package deal where we could go to five games, unfortunately one of those games wasn't senior night. A friend of mine got tickets to the game, but instead of taking me - the biggest Louisville fan in our school - she took someone else and I was heartbroken. My parents tried to get tickets but they were sold out, so the closest I would get to seeing Wheat's last home game at Freedom Hall was on TV. After that day I got to meet Wheat at the basketball banquet, but it wasn't quite the same. When the basketball season started the next year I sat in the stands with my dad and friend Elizabeth and watched Cameron Murray lead the team as the point guard against Western Kentucky. A lot of people didn't like Murray, but I did. But no matter how much I liked Murray, I felt like something was missing from that game - DeJuan Wheat. I anticipate that next year if Reyes doesn't return I will feel the same way. I will love Ruben Tejada, I will cheer for him like everyone else on the team, but something will be missing from that Mets infield - Jose Reyes. The difference though between Reyes and Wheat is that Wheat had to leave because his eligibility was up, but Reyes can come back. And I would probably love Tejada a little more if he was playing to the left of Reyes at second base.

Once I got to the game I bought the cheapest ticket I could because I'm currently not on a project. I watched a little bit on the lower level as some of the players warmed up, but eventually made my way to the promenade section of Citifield. As Reyes approached the plate for his first at bat in the bottom of the first inning I stood up with many other fans and applauded him as the crowd chanted JOSE JOSE JOSE. Reyes got a bunt single, which put him at .337 for the batting average - leading Braun in the NL batting title race. Then suddenly Reyes vacated the base and walked towards the dugout. Justin Turner came out to pinch run for him and fans started to boo. Everyone at the game was there to see Reyes play and after one at bat and one inning of defense he was sitting in the dugout out of everyone's view. Everyone thought Collins had pulled him and I was furious. How could he do that to the fans? Later it was explained that Reyes had asked to be pulled if he got a hit and Collins wanted to honor his request. I no longer felt angry because it was Reyes's request. I think as a fan I know how much Reyes loves to play and loves the fans, so I respect his decision because he could have not played at all since he came into the game with the lead for the batting title.

So with Reyes gone in the first and David Wright pulled a couple innings later the players on the field were basically all players playing for a place next season. I eventually got over my anger about not getting to see more of Reyes and Wright and enjoyed the game - especially the hometown kid, Mike Baxter's first home run in the Majors. As the eighth inning game around I started to make my way to the lower level because I like to leave as soon as the game is over to make the express train, but today I felt like I couldn't leave Citifield. I have a very special connection to the sports teams I love. For me being at a game for the Mets or Louisville basketball is almost like my escape or the place to go where everything just feels alright. I got cut from my project this week, I'm hopeful to get on another one, but being at Citifield today just revived me a little. It's the same way going to Freedom Hall always made me feel like I was somebody. Whether it was Nate Johnson signing an autograph or Hajj Turner remembering who I was or waiting as the players ran out in the tunnel before the game I always felt like I was a part of something. Among the players and the fans I fit in. I think there are some people that don't always understand that, but also I think its something that a lot of diehard fans like myself can relate to. So as the ninth inning came around I stood at the top of the section behind the Mets dugout and people started chanting JOSE JOSE JOSE and JOSE REYES and PLEASE STAY JOSE. There were #7 shirts every where and signs begging him to stay and saying thanks. The ninth inning came to an end with a Mets victory over the Reds 3-0. Reyes led the players in the dugout out to the field to shake hands. As the players returned and proceeded to the dugout entrance to the clubhouse a player, I believe Angel Pagan, suddenly flicked his hat into the stands. Other players followed him and some even ran to the other side of the field to throw hats to the those fans. Jason Pridie handed a bat to someone, Willie Harris followed his leave. It was unbelievable to see such interaction with the fans. The Mets players are by far some of the classiest, most appreciative professional athletes I have ever seen. But the fans still wouldn't leave. They wanted one more moment with Reyes. I wouldn't leave either. I made my way a little closer to the dugout. You could just feel it - everyone loves Jose Reyes. Every Mets fan standing there didn't want that moment to end because they knew when the left the ballpark Reyes would no longer be a Met. I stood there with them and clapped and cheered. JOSE JOSE JOSE ! Then eventually he appeared. He walked out of the dugout and turned around to face the crowd smiling, carrying signs, clapping repeatedly and saluted them. He waved, he made a motion to show his love for the fans. If this was his last game as a Met I will never forget that moment - it was the send off he deserved. Hopefully its not a send off though, but a thanks for everything and see you next year (in a Mets uniform).

I'm certainly not glad to be unemployed right now, but because of that I got to see the Mets last game of the year and that was something nice, something special I won't forget.

Today was probably the most emotional sporting event I have ever been to and I've been to a lot of games, including Louisville's last trip to the final four and three subway series. But I hope in the long run it was overly emotional for no reason because Reyes comes back. But just in case he doesn't ... Thanks for the memories Jose! Thanks for the exciting triples, the multi-hit games, the amazing stolen bases, the unbelievable defensive play, the smiles, the excitement, the love of the game, and even the claw/spotlight. You certainly made a mark on the Mets - in the history books and in the hearts of fans. Now please come back and make some more ... I truly believe you and David can be the center of team that wins the World Series.

PLEASE STAY JOSE !

Video of crowd chanting after the game: http://yfrog.com/e4e5uz

Mets Review

Today the Mets played their last game of the season and it ended with a 3-0 victory thanks to a complete game shutout effort by Miguel Batista. The game had two notable hits. The first was a bunt single by Jose Reyes to give him a batting average of .337. He left the game after that hit and now awaits for Ryan Braun to play tonight to see if he will hold on the NL batting title lead. (More to come on Reyes in a separate opinion post later). The second notable hit was Mike Baxter's first Major League home run. Baxter grew up in Queens and one can imagine how much hitting a home run in front of the hometown crowd must have felt. The other run was driven in by Nick Evans.

All in all the season has been a difficult one for the Mets as they miss the playoffs and finish under .500. However, despite their overall record there were many high points to the season. They had a great stretch were they played division champions Detroit and Texas extremely well. They took both games from the Phillies in a doubleheader with come from behind wins. They played an extraordinary game against the Yankees where the struggling Jason Bay got the walk off RBI. Young players came up to the big leagues and played well, in place injured players. Jose Reyes had an amazing year. Jason Isringhausen got his 300th career save. And RA Dickey had a stretch of 12 consecutive quality starts. These are just some of the great moments that occurred this season.

With that said the Mets will need to do some things to improve the team this offseason. The first order of business is whether Reyes comes back. There is also the question of whether the Mets will re-sign Chris Capuano. Capuano wants to be a starter and with Niese, Gee, Dickey, and Pelfrey back the question really is how Johan Santana comes back from injury. The Mets are hoping Santana, who missed the whole year, will be ready to go for the team in spring training, but no one can predict whether he will suffer any setbacks. Capuano would be a great person to have just in case, but as mentioned earlier he wants to start and if he feels like he won't be able to here he might pack his bags and go somewhere else - two big name teams in the area in the need of some pitching: Red Sox and Yankees. Besides issues with re-signing Reyes and Capuano, there are a couple of other positions the Mets will need to look at. First there is the chance that Angel Pagan will not be back with the Mets next year. A lot of people have been saying that the Mets are not happy with mistakes he has made and may look to fill that need with a free agent. One of the most talked about outfielders in the minors, Fernando Martinez, isn't a likely replacement because he has suffered many injuries in the past couple of years. Also it appears that even though Jason Pridie has done a good job filling in for Pagan, he probably isn't an everyday player. Another position that will get some attention in the offseason is catcher and off course the bullpen could use some improvement - a closer will definitely be needed. Bobby Parnell is talented, but he isn't a closer and putting that kind of pressure on him probably isn't good. Manny Acosta's play of late though has been promising which definitely helps out the bullpen.

Given all of these considerations, the offseason will be interesting for the Mets and anything is possible. Obviously what happens with Reyes will be a big part of the decision making for the front office. It will be interesting to see what the 2012 Mets will look like. Also, it will be interesting to see how Santana performs when he hopefully returns next year and how the young pitchers in the minors may impact the team. Will Wheeler, Harvey, Familia, and Meija make any appearances in the big leagues next year? All four are said to be tremendous talents. Only time will tell what who the 2012 Mets are and where that team goes.

Thanks Mets for the memories. See you in Port St. Lucie.