Well, it's been over a month since I last posted. It's been a very busy month in my life. School wrapped up about 10 days ago, and I've been trying to balance work and play this holiday break.
The Canadian juniors are on a roll in Buffalo, pummeling their opponents, hopefully on their way to anotehr gold medal. Hopefully, the ending to this year's tournament will be a little better than what happened last year. Apparently, Canadians flooding down to Buffalo have caused border delays...oh how much we love hockey.
The Raps and Leafs are just chugging along as expected, nothing too fancy going on there. Whether either of them will make the playoffs is probably an unlikely scenario, but people fill the ACC to see them either way. The sports championship drought in Toronto is getting to people here. They're sort of losing hope. When the Jays start their play in April, we'll hear all the cynics come out once again.
In the meanwhile, have a great new year! Looking forward to more sports moments in 2011.
-D
Thursday, 30 December 2010
Saturday, 27 November 2010
Grey Cup Weekend
It may be Thanksgiving weekend in the US, but it's Grey Cup time up in Canada. The Canadian Football League will crown a champion tomorrow afternoon in Edmonton as the Saskatchewan Roughriders face off against the Montreal Alouettes (who crushed the TO Argos last weekend by 31 points). It may not have the glamour of the Super Bowl, but believe it or not, this will be the 98th Grey Cup final. It's got a much longer and storied history than that of the Super Bowl. In fact, I learned last week that the University of Toronto was the first institution to win the Cup itself. Interesting stuff.
Also interesting is the Raptors run this past week, winning 4 straight games before dropping the last one in Boston. During that stretch, they beat Philadelphia twice, Houston once, and get this, Boston once. Still though, this team is just too weak and too shallow to consistently post streaks like that. They're playing at the ACC tomorrow against Atlanta.
The Leafs, in the meanwhile, have been the subject of much discussion in Toronto lately. This morning, I was listening to the sports radio and they were talking about what would makes this season a sucessful one for the Leafs. Is it making the playoffs? Is it not finishing second last again? Is it developing the young guns? What do you think?
It snowed this morning in Hogtown!! It was only a dusting but very exciting stuff!! Ah, gotta love the winter!
-D
Also interesting is the Raptors run this past week, winning 4 straight games before dropping the last one in Boston. During that stretch, they beat Philadelphia twice, Houston once, and get this, Boston once. Still though, this team is just too weak and too shallow to consistently post streaks like that. They're playing at the ACC tomorrow against Atlanta.
The Leafs, in the meanwhile, have been the subject of much discussion in Toronto lately. This morning, I was listening to the sports radio and they were talking about what would makes this season a sucessful one for the Leafs. Is it making the playoffs? Is it not finishing second last again? Is it developing the young guns? What do you think?
It snowed this morning in Hogtown!! It was only a dusting but very exciting stuff!! Ah, gotta love the winter!
-D
Sunday, 21 November 2010
MVP from TO
Canadian boy Joey Votto was named the National League's Most Valuable Player yesterday, joining a very elite club of Canadian major leaguers who have won the coveted prize!
The most exciting thing, I think, is that the man is in fact from right here in Toronto. He went to Richview CI, a TDSB public high school out in the west end of the city. And although he plays for the Cincinatti Reds now, it's always wonderful to see a hometown boy win the most glorious trophy in the league.
Josh Hamilton was named the AL MVP earlier today. A great choice on the writers' part. I've agreed with the major choices for the awards this year. Felix Hernandez and Roy Halladay definitely deserved their Cy Youngs, though it was a tough decision in a year dominated by pitchers!
Was talking to my friend about the future of Roger Federer, who lost to Gael Monfils earlier this month at the ATP Tour Finals. We agreed that it would be very hard for the Maestro to ever regain the #1 position, unless Nadal injures himself and misses out on multiple Slams. Federer is just ONE week away from tying Sampras for the most weeks at #1. Go Roger though. I hope he wins at least a couple other majors before retiring. Australian Open 2011 anyone?
-D
The most exciting thing, I think, is that the man is in fact from right here in Toronto. He went to Richview CI, a TDSB public high school out in the west end of the city. And although he plays for the Cincinatti Reds now, it's always wonderful to see a hometown boy win the most glorious trophy in the league.
Josh Hamilton was named the AL MVP earlier today. A great choice on the writers' part. I've agreed with the major choices for the awards this year. Felix Hernandez and Roy Halladay definitely deserved their Cy Youngs, though it was a tough decision in a year dominated by pitchers!
Was talking to my friend about the future of Roger Federer, who lost to Gael Monfils earlier this month at the ATP Tour Finals. We agreed that it would be very hard for the Maestro to ever regain the #1 position, unless Nadal injures himself and misses out on multiple Slams. Federer is just ONE week away from tying Sampras for the most weeks at #1. Go Roger though. I hope he wins at least a couple other majors before retiring. Australian Open 2011 anyone?
-D
Friday, 19 November 2010
TO Sports
Well, it's been a busy couple of weeks at school for me but also a busy couple of weeks in the sports leagues.
First of all, the Toronto teams have just been downright depressing. We thought that the Leafs were off to a mind-blowing start of 4-0-0. They were sitting atop the division. The Leafs spirit was very much alive in the streest of TO. We were GOING TO win the Cup. This was OUR year. And look how that is turning out now...2-6-2 in the last 10 games and an overall record of 7-8-3. But hey, they have won the last two in style, so maybe things will turn around.
The Raptors on the other hand, are performing just as people expected them to. Off to a 3-9 start, the Raps sit in 4th place in the Atlantic Division. This is a blessing in disguise though, I think. They have no pressure or expectations going into this year, and this will be really good, I think, for developing some of the young guns on the team. After losing Bosh, they don't really have a franchise player to build around. Is is Bargnani? Is it Calderon? I don't know.
Felix Hernandez out in Seattle got the congratulatory call from Major League Baseball today as he was named the AL Cy Young Award winner. It's quite refreshing to see an ace from a last place team earn the award based on merits like ERA and WHIP instead of wins. Congrats Felix! The man is like 23 years old! Mark my words, this won't be his only Cy.
And you can also mark my words on Derek Jeter resigning with the Yankees before the visit from Santa.
-D
First of all, the Toronto teams have just been downright depressing. We thought that the Leafs were off to a mind-blowing start of 4-0-0. They were sitting atop the division. The Leafs spirit was very much alive in the streest of TO. We were GOING TO win the Cup. This was OUR year. And look how that is turning out now...2-6-2 in the last 10 games and an overall record of 7-8-3. But hey, they have won the last two in style, so maybe things will turn around.
The Raptors on the other hand, are performing just as people expected them to. Off to a 3-9 start, the Raps sit in 4th place in the Atlantic Division. This is a blessing in disguise though, I think. They have no pressure or expectations going into this year, and this will be really good, I think, for developing some of the young guns on the team. After losing Bosh, they don't really have a franchise player to build around. Is is Bargnani? Is it Calderon? I don't know.
Felix Hernandez out in Seattle got the congratulatory call from Major League Baseball today as he was named the AL Cy Young Award winner. It's quite refreshing to see an ace from a last place team earn the award based on merits like ERA and WHIP instead of wins. Congrats Felix! The man is like 23 years old! Mark my words, this won't be his only Cy.
And you can also mark my words on Derek Jeter resigning with the Yankees before the visit from Santa.
-D
Friday, 29 October 2010
The World Series
Ah, October baseball at its best.
The World Series has commenced and it has commenced in dramatic fashion. The San Francisco Giants, certainly not prohibited favourites by any means has taken two straight from the Texas Rangers, shutting them down last night 9-0 in AT & T Park.
Matt Cain pitched deep into the 8th and walked off to a roaring ovation. To be honest, I have been quite surprised by San Fran's 2-0 lead in the Series. Lincecum didn't look like the usual Lincecum in the first game. The Giants defense was playing horribly to start off the Series. But still, the offensive outburst has carried them through (20 runs in 2 games). And to have done it against Cliff Lee and CJ Wilson, it's quite amazing.
I'm still rooting for Texas though. I want to see a team that has never won the trophy win it all. On the other hand though, the Giants haven't won since the days of Jackie Robinson. Ah...I love series like these.
-D
The World Series has commenced and it has commenced in dramatic fashion. The San Francisco Giants, certainly not prohibited favourites by any means has taken two straight from the Texas Rangers, shutting them down last night 9-0 in AT & T Park.
Matt Cain pitched deep into the 8th and walked off to a roaring ovation. To be honest, I have been quite surprised by San Fran's 2-0 lead in the Series. Lincecum didn't look like the usual Lincecum in the first game. The Giants defense was playing horribly to start off the Series. But still, the offensive outburst has carried them through (20 runs in 2 games). And to have done it against Cliff Lee and CJ Wilson, it's quite amazing.
I'm still rooting for Texas though. I want to see a team that has never won the trophy win it all. On the other hand though, the Giants haven't won since the days of Jackie Robinson. Ah...I love series like these.
-D
Sunday, 17 October 2010
LCS
Halladay vs. Lincecum was rather disappointing last night. I expect a match-up for the ages with both hurlers dominating the opposing line ups. Instead, it was only a mediocre performance from both of them. Though the score was close, 4-3 in favour of San Fran, the drama was underwhelming to say the least. Philadelphia fans were really into it though!! I got goosebumps when they went beserk whenever the Phils knocked one out of the park. I wanna see Halladay in the World Series so I'll be rootin' for the Phillies in this one. Oswalt vs. Sanchez tonight. Should be a pretty good one too.
Yanks and Tex tied at 1. Not really surprising since both teams have so much depth. I think Texas will eventually prevail in this one though. Cliff Lee's dominance will be hard to overcome. The Yankees can hit for sure but they NEED CC Sabathia to come through big (unlike in Game 1).
The Toronto Maple Leafs are 4-0-0. Fans here say hell froze over. This hockey city is surely enjoying the run though. Hope they keep it up all the way to March. Then it'll be REAL interesting. I think they honestly can, if Kessel and the first line keeps playing like the way they have.
-D
Yanks and Tex tied at 1. Not really surprising since both teams have so much depth. I think Texas will eventually prevail in this one though. Cliff Lee's dominance will be hard to overcome. The Yankees can hit for sure but they NEED CC Sabathia to come through big (unlike in Game 1).
The Toronto Maple Leafs are 4-0-0. Fans here say hell froze over. This hockey city is surely enjoying the run though. Hope they keep it up all the way to March. Then it'll be REAL interesting. I think they honestly can, if Kessel and the first line keeps playing like the way they have.
-D
Wednesday, 6 October 2010
EPIC.
For more than a decade, Roy Halladay lived in relative obscurity in one of the most cities of Major League Baseball. He labored in Toronto for 13 long years before finally getting his shot at October glory with the Philadelphia Phillies.
Earlier this evening, the Doc took to the mound in the City of Brotherly Love and showed no love to his NLDS opponents, the Cincinnati Reds. He mowed them down in just the SECOND no-hitter in the 128 year history of playoff baseball. In 128 years, there has only been ONE no-hitter tossed. Think about that. Can you say E-P-I-C?!
With this new dose of energy injected into the Phillies squad, I think they should now be considered the favorites for the World Series title. My pick for the October Classic later this month? Phila vs. Tampa. Yes, repeat of 2008. In the meanwhile, I'm rootin' for Halladay's Phils, Bobby Cox's Braves, Joe Mauer's Twins, and Cliff Lee's Rangers. Who are you cheering for?
-D
Earlier this evening, the Doc took to the mound in the City of Brotherly Love and showed no love to his NLDS opponents, the Cincinnati Reds. He mowed them down in just the SECOND no-hitter in the 128 year history of playoff baseball. In 128 years, there has only been ONE no-hitter tossed. Think about that. Can you say E-P-I-C?!
With this new dose of energy injected into the Phillies squad, I think they should now be considered the favorites for the World Series title. My pick for the October Classic later this month? Phila vs. Tampa. Yes, repeat of 2008. In the meanwhile, I'm rootin' for Halladay's Phils, Bobby Cox's Braves, Joe Mauer's Twins, and Cliff Lee's Rangers. Who are you cheering for?
-D
Monday, 4 October 2010
October Baseball
That was quite an exciting end to the 2010 baseball season.
The Jays took 3 out of 4 in Minny. Jose Bautista ended up with 54 bombs. The Jays had a 10 game improvement over 2009. All the loose knots were tied up for Toronto.
Atlanta secured itself a Wild Card spot. The Rays took the AL East title from the Yanks. San Diego disappointingly choked in the last second. I really wanted to see a one game playoff though. Those are ALWAYS very tense and exciting. But hey, I'm looking forward to the LDS's.
Been really busy these days, preparing for university applications and scholarships and such. Watching sports has really been a stress reliever though. Yesterday morning, I caught live coverage of the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. It was great to see some Indian culture on display. Being a Chinese and a Canadian who's seen both his cultures on display for the world, I think I really have an appreciation for these ceremonies now. Though I'm not sure JaiHo was the right choice to end off the ceremony.
Canada is already on the board after Day 1 with 1 gold and 3 bronze. Don't think they'll beat the Aussies though.
-D
The Jays took 3 out of 4 in Minny. Jose Bautista ended up with 54 bombs. The Jays had a 10 game improvement over 2009. All the loose knots were tied up for Toronto.
Atlanta secured itself a Wild Card spot. The Rays took the AL East title from the Yanks. San Diego disappointingly choked in the last second. I really wanted to see a one game playoff though. Those are ALWAYS very tense and exciting. But hey, I'm looking forward to the LDS's.
Been really busy these days, preparing for university applications and scholarships and such. Watching sports has really been a stress reliever though. Yesterday morning, I caught live coverage of the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in New Delhi. It was great to see some Indian culture on display. Being a Chinese and a Canadian who's seen both his cultures on display for the world, I think I really have an appreciation for these ceremonies now. Though I'm not sure JaiHo was the right choice to end off the ceremony.
Canada is already on the board after Day 1 with 1 gold and 3 bronze. Don't think they'll beat the Aussies though.
-D
Thursday, 23 September 2010
50
At the start of this season, did anybody even dare to suggest that Jose Bautista would hammer 30 home runs? 40? 50? Sure he had a hot September last year but having been a journeymen all his life, he surely couldn't hit 50. Well, this afternoon, with one swing of that lightning-fast bat, Bautista did exactly just that.
When he emerged as the MLB home run leader back in the spring, it was a question of whether he could keep his pace. When he hit the all star break and made it to Anaheim for the fest of baseball heroes, people began to take notice. A few days ago, he broke the Blue Jays' club record for home runs in a season. And now, with his 50th, Bautista has added his name to an elite list of sluggers in baseball history.
The Jays as a team though has been riding on his back all year long. Can you believe where the club would be without Jose? When I went to a game a couple weeks ago down at the Dome here in Toronto, the ovation for Bautista was by far the loudest. Sluggers like these tend to fizzle out very easily though. I do hope Bautista's power performance is sustained come April. It's a bring spot in a city that hasn't seen much sports success in a very long time.
I've just been so busy these past couple of weeks with school and preparations for university applications that I really haven't got the chance to talk about Nadal's Careeer GS. It didn't come as a surprise AT ALL. Djokovic played a great second set but Nadal simply overpowered him in the fourth to win it all. I think we now have to consider whether the guard has been officially changed in tennis. Roger Federer is almost 6000 points behind Nadal in the rankings and I think unless Nadal has a disastrous 2011 or gets injured, it will be extremely difficult for Roger to climb back to number 1.
-D
When he emerged as the MLB home run leader back in the spring, it was a question of whether he could keep his pace. When he hit the all star break and made it to Anaheim for the fest of baseball heroes, people began to take notice. A few days ago, he broke the Blue Jays' club record for home runs in a season. And now, with his 50th, Bautista has added his name to an elite list of sluggers in baseball history.
The Jays as a team though has been riding on his back all year long. Can you believe where the club would be without Jose? When I went to a game a couple weeks ago down at the Dome here in Toronto, the ovation for Bautista was by far the loudest. Sluggers like these tend to fizzle out very easily though. I do hope Bautista's power performance is sustained come April. It's a bring spot in a city that hasn't seen much sports success in a very long time.
I've just been so busy these past couple of weeks with school and preparations for university applications that I really haven't got the chance to talk about Nadal's Careeer GS. It didn't come as a surprise AT ALL. Djokovic played a great second set but Nadal simply overpowered him in the fourth to win it all. I think we now have to consider whether the guard has been officially changed in tennis. Roger Federer is almost 6000 points behind Nadal in the rankings and I think unless Nadal has a disastrous 2011 or gets injured, it will be extremely difficult for Roger to climb back to number 1.
-D
Saturday, 11 September 2010
Tennis Cont'd
Well after a fortnight of tennis, the stars in the finals are set to shine.
In just under an hour's time, Kim Clijsters will look to defend her improbable Open title against Vera Zvonereva of Russia. Clijsters pulled off an amazing victory over Venus Williams yesterday in three sets. She looked out of it for the first set but came back with her powerful forehands and acrobatic slides to win the second and third. Of course, she will be the prohibited favorite when she takes the court at 8 PM but don't overlook the Olympic bronze medalist. She's been in this place before, losing to Serena Williams at this year's Wimbledon final in July.
A few minutes ago on Arthur Ashe Stadium, Roger Federer, who I still think is the greatest player ever to step on a tennis court, went down in defeat to No. 3 seed Novak Djokovic. It was appropriately a 5-set match, with Djokovic coming on top 5-7, 6-1, 5-7, 6-2, 7-5. Federer had the match IN THE BAG, wasting two match points before being broken by hitting three unforced errors. The match took over 3 hours and 30 minutes. The result was hugely disappointing for me and I think for most people, they did want to see a Federer-Rafa match up in the final.
Well, I think this match and Federer's overall performance this year shows us that the Maestro is on the decline. He's only won 2 singles titles all year long, one down in Australia and the one last month in Cincinatti. He's consistently losing matches that he had sealed up. He's committing way too many unforced errors (almost 70 today) and just overall looks old and tired. Only rarely does he flash his former form (like against Robin Soderling the other night). After what happened here tonight, I have some slight doubts about whether he will ever win a major again. But of course, this is the great Roger Federer and don't count him out until he retires.
On the other hand, I do think Rafa Nadal will earn a career Grand Slam tomorrow in New York. Djokovic is undoubtedly exhausted after his marathon effort. Rafa went through earlier in straights and has had 4 extra hours of rest. I will be very surprised if he doesn't win.
-D
In just under an hour's time, Kim Clijsters will look to defend her improbable Open title against Vera Zvonereva of Russia. Clijsters pulled off an amazing victory over Venus Williams yesterday in three sets. She looked out of it for the first set but came back with her powerful forehands and acrobatic slides to win the second and third. Of course, she will be the prohibited favorite when she takes the court at 8 PM but don't overlook the Olympic bronze medalist. She's been in this place before, losing to Serena Williams at this year's Wimbledon final in July.
A few minutes ago on Arthur Ashe Stadium, Roger Federer, who I still think is the greatest player ever to step on a tennis court, went down in defeat to No. 3 seed Novak Djokovic. It was appropriately a 5-set match, with Djokovic coming on top 5-7, 6-1, 5-7, 6-2, 7-5. Federer had the match IN THE BAG, wasting two match points before being broken by hitting three unforced errors. The match took over 3 hours and 30 minutes. The result was hugely disappointing for me and I think for most people, they did want to see a Federer-Rafa match up in the final.
Well, I think this match and Federer's overall performance this year shows us that the Maestro is on the decline. He's only won 2 singles titles all year long, one down in Australia and the one last month in Cincinatti. He's consistently losing matches that he had sealed up. He's committing way too many unforced errors (almost 70 today) and just overall looks old and tired. Only rarely does he flash his former form (like against Robin Soderling the other night). After what happened here tonight, I have some slight doubts about whether he will ever win a major again. But of course, this is the great Roger Federer and don't count him out until he retires.
On the other hand, I do think Rafa Nadal will earn a career Grand Slam tomorrow in New York. Djokovic is undoubtedly exhausted after his marathon effort. Rafa went through earlier in straights and has had 4 extra hours of rest. I will be very surprised if he doesn't win.
-D
Sunday, 5 September 2010
Tennis Tennis
I've been playing a lot of tennis. I've been watching a lot of tennis. It's all tennis tennis tennis!
We're through the first week here at the US Open and it's been a wild one at that. I don't think I've ever seen so many bagels at a Grand Slam tournament. It seems like everyday, especially on the women's side, somebody is winning 6-0, 6-1. For God's sake, Caroline Wozniacki has only dropped 3 games and she's already into the 4th round!!
My hometown girl Li Na lost in the first round in New York. That was rather disappointing. But still, it's amazing how she is in the Top 10. I can tell you, Chinese sports fans are very proud of her and Zheng Jie.
Venus Williams and Kim Clijsters slammed their way through to the women's quarterfinals earlier today. Rafael Nadal beat Gilles Simon in straight sets on Ashe. Fernando Verdasco looked good today, beating David Nalbandian in straight sets. Sam Querrey also went through to the Round of 16 in straight sets. Andy Murray's in a battle against Stanislas Wawrinka right now, 7-6, 6-7, 1-2, on serve in the third.
My pick for the final, Tomas Berdych, lost in the first round. I think Murray might have a good chance of making it to the final. Though I do admit Nadal's playing really well right now, I still think he's just too worn out from the year with his intense style of play. The Americans keep on saying Mardy Fish or Sam Querrey could have a breakout major here in NYC. I think they need to improve on aspects of their game other than their serve before they can break into the Top 10. What do you think?
-D
We're through the first week here at the US Open and it's been a wild one at that. I don't think I've ever seen so many bagels at a Grand Slam tournament. It seems like everyday, especially on the women's side, somebody is winning 6-0, 6-1. For God's sake, Caroline Wozniacki has only dropped 3 games and she's already into the 4th round!!
My hometown girl Li Na lost in the first round in New York. That was rather disappointing. But still, it's amazing how she is in the Top 10. I can tell you, Chinese sports fans are very proud of her and Zheng Jie.
Venus Williams and Kim Clijsters slammed their way through to the women's quarterfinals earlier today. Rafael Nadal beat Gilles Simon in straight sets on Ashe. Fernando Verdasco looked good today, beating David Nalbandian in straight sets. Sam Querrey also went through to the Round of 16 in straight sets. Andy Murray's in a battle against Stanislas Wawrinka right now, 7-6, 6-7, 1-2, on serve in the third.
My pick for the final, Tomas Berdych, lost in the first round. I think Murray might have a good chance of making it to the final. Though I do admit Nadal's playing really well right now, I still think he's just too worn out from the year with his intense style of play. The Americans keep on saying Mardy Fish or Sam Querrey could have a breakout major here in NYC. I think they need to improve on aspects of their game other than their serve before they can break into the Top 10. What do you think?
-D
Saturday, 28 August 2010
Baseball Baseball
The newest issue of Sports Illustrated has the pride of Toronto, Cincinatti first baseman Joey Votto, on its cover. What a wonderful sight that was when I looked into my mail yesterday. Read the article on him too, it was really really interesting!! It's so great to see Votto doing so well right now, batting .326 with 32 home runs and 91 RBIs.
Speaking of big sluggers, how about Jose Bautista? He's up to 42 homers now, 8 ahead of Albert Pujols, who is second in the majors. Bautista's also up to 99 RBIs now. Where would the Blue Jays be without him? Could he be a potential MVP candidate?
Jays have won two straight but barely...phew. Last night, Kevin Gregg blew another save, allowing the tying run to score in the top of the 9th. Thank goodness Aaron Hill came through in the 11th with a walk off single. Today, it was Scott Downs' turn to put the fans on the edge of their seats. In the top of the 9th, Detroit scored three runs to close the gap to 5-4 before Kevin Gregg shut the door on the Tigers.
Hoping to go to one more ballgame before school starts.
Can't wait for the US Open on Monday!!
-D
Speaking of big sluggers, how about Jose Bautista? He's up to 42 homers now, 8 ahead of Albert Pujols, who is second in the majors. Bautista's also up to 99 RBIs now. Where would the Blue Jays be without him? Could he be a potential MVP candidate?
Jays have won two straight but barely...phew. Last night, Kevin Gregg blew another save, allowing the tying run to score in the top of the 9th. Thank goodness Aaron Hill came through in the 11th with a walk off single. Today, it was Scott Downs' turn to put the fans on the edge of their seats. In the top of the 9th, Detroit scored three runs to close the gap to 5-4 before Kevin Gregg shut the door on the Tigers.
Hoping to go to one more ballgame before school starts.
Can't wait for the US Open on Monday!!
-D
Monday, 23 August 2010
Late August
Well, this summer has certainly gone by VERY fast. It's already August 23 as we speak. Although I wish this summer could last just a little bit longer, I am excited to begin the new school year come September. Nonetheless, I'll miss these past two months very much though.
It's been rainy here in the eastern part of the continent this week. Montreal's Rogers Cup semifinals and finals were delayed for more than 39 hours. Only this morning did sky clear for play. Caroline Wozniacki, the 2nd ranked female player in the world, took home the trophy this afternoon, beating Vera Zvonareva, 6-3, 6-2. Hardly a surprising result.
Roger Federer added to his illustrious resume with a win over Mardy Fish yesterday in Cincinatti in a three-setter. It's Federer's first ATP Masters Series title in 12 months and his 63rd career championship, 4th in Cincinatti. Is he going to capture his 17th Slam in New York in three weeks time? That's tough to say. I think he very well might. Nadal hasn't been in tip top shape these past two weeks. Del Potro withdrew from the Open today, due to his nagging wrist injury. So, he very well might win for the 6th time in Flushing Meadows.
However, I'm picking dark horse Tomas Berdych to make the final. Last year, I was right about Del Potro, so we'll see this year. Can't wait!
Jays dropped their second straight series, this time in Boston. But hey, that ass kicking of the Red Sox on Friday night, 16-2 was pretty amazing to watch. Jose Bautista might very well finish with 45 home runs this year.
-D
It's been rainy here in the eastern part of the continent this week. Montreal's Rogers Cup semifinals and finals were delayed for more than 39 hours. Only this morning did sky clear for play. Caroline Wozniacki, the 2nd ranked female player in the world, took home the trophy this afternoon, beating Vera Zvonareva, 6-3, 6-2. Hardly a surprising result.
Roger Federer added to his illustrious resume with a win over Mardy Fish yesterday in Cincinatti in a three-setter. It's Federer's first ATP Masters Series title in 12 months and his 63rd career championship, 4th in Cincinatti. Is he going to capture his 17th Slam in New York in three weeks time? That's tough to say. I think he very well might. Nadal hasn't been in tip top shape these past two weeks. Del Potro withdrew from the Open today, due to his nagging wrist injury. So, he very well might win for the 6th time in Flushing Meadows.
However, I'm picking dark horse Tomas Berdych to make the final. Last year, I was right about Del Potro, so we'll see this year. Can't wait!
Jays dropped their second straight series, this time in Boston. But hey, that ass kicking of the Red Sox on Friday night, 16-2 was pretty amazing to watch. Jose Bautista might very well finish with 45 home runs this year.
-D
Monday, 16 August 2010
Rogers Cup
Andy Murray is playing AMAZING right now and he just won the Rogers Cup over the weekend here in Toronto. Oh and he beat Rafael Nadal and Roger Federer along the way!
It was an absolutely amazing experience volunteering at the tournament for the second year. I was part of the Pass Control and Outside Courts Committee, which means I was assigned to restricted areas to check for access passes and I also acted as usher on some of the outside courts on the grounds.
I got to watch a ton of tennis on my breaks and had a whale of a time socializing with other volunteers. I also got lucky on the last two days of my shift and was assigned to work near the players' entrance to Centre Court, checking passes in that hallway. There, I got to see RFed, Andy Murray, and Rafa up close. Those were moments I'll never forget. Just so exciting to see the greatest players walking right in front of you!
I was rooting for Roger Federer to win the tournament but honestly though, he didn't play his best at all. Only his first and second matches were breeze-throughs and even his second match I thought could have been better. Tomas Berdych came THIS close to knocking him out in the QFs while Djokovic also pushed him to three. Still though, he did regain his #2 ranking but by the looks of it, it will take a long time for him to climb up to the top again. He is just TWO weeks away from beating Sampras' old record of 286 weeks at #1.
My pick for the US Open...hmm, that's a tough one. I'd love to see Federer win back the title but I also love Juan Martin Del Potro. Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray are both playing amazing tennis right now so it will be another great fight for the trophy. Berdych will be one to watch as well after his performance in Toronto. I don't think Djokovic, with the way he played, will be too big of a threat but remember he is still world #3.
I gotta go with the greatest though. Pickin' Federer but if it's a Rafa-Fed, Murray-Fed, Djoko-Fed, Berdych-Fed, Del Potro-Fed match-up, don't be surprised if the Swiss Maestro's apparent fall from grace continues.
-D
It was an absolutely amazing experience volunteering at the tournament for the second year. I was part of the Pass Control and Outside Courts Committee, which means I was assigned to restricted areas to check for access passes and I also acted as usher on some of the outside courts on the grounds.
I got to watch a ton of tennis on my breaks and had a whale of a time socializing with other volunteers. I also got lucky on the last two days of my shift and was assigned to work near the players' entrance to Centre Court, checking passes in that hallway. There, I got to see RFed, Andy Murray, and Rafa up close. Those were moments I'll never forget. Just so exciting to see the greatest players walking right in front of you!
I was rooting for Roger Federer to win the tournament but honestly though, he didn't play his best at all. Only his first and second matches were breeze-throughs and even his second match I thought could have been better. Tomas Berdych came THIS close to knocking him out in the QFs while Djokovic also pushed him to three. Still though, he did regain his #2 ranking but by the looks of it, it will take a long time for him to climb up to the top again. He is just TWO weeks away from beating Sampras' old record of 286 weeks at #1.
My pick for the US Open...hmm, that's a tough one. I'd love to see Federer win back the title but I also love Juan Martin Del Potro. Rafa Nadal and Andy Murray are both playing amazing tennis right now so it will be another great fight for the trophy. Berdych will be one to watch as well after his performance in Toronto. I don't think Djokovic, with the way he played, will be too big of a threat but remember he is still world #3.
I gotta go with the greatest though. Pickin' Federer but if it's a Rafa-Fed, Murray-Fed, Djoko-Fed, Berdych-Fed, Del Potro-Fed match-up, don't be surprised if the Swiss Maestro's apparent fall from grace continues.
-D
Monday, 9 August 2010
So Close!
Two outs, bottom of the ninth, 1-1 count, Evan Longoria taps a ball by Aaron Hill. The entire stadium shrieks. The doors of history slams into Brandon Morrow's face.
It was THAT close. One more out and he would have tossed the 6th major league no-no this season. It would have been Tampa's gazillionth time being no-hit in the last two years. Well, it didn't happen, folks. Maybe it just wasn't meant to be. But surely it was still a HELL of a day for Brandon Morrow, who finished with a stunning total of 17 strikeouts.
Boy was he ever throwing some heat yesterday afternoon! And not to mention that with his one hitter, we swept Tampa, one of the best teams in the league, this weekend! The Jays are surely on a role right now and let's see what they can do with those Boston Red Sox! I say they take 2 of 3.
Going out to the Rogers Cup tomorrow night to enjoy some tennis-Roger Federer's playing!! Should be exciting!
-D
It was THAT close. One more out and he would have tossed the 6th major league no-no this season. It would have been Tampa's gazillionth time being no-hit in the last two years. Well, it didn't happen, folks. Maybe it just wasn't meant to be. But surely it was still a HELL of a day for Brandon Morrow, who finished with a stunning total of 17 strikeouts.
Boy was he ever throwing some heat yesterday afternoon! And not to mention that with his one hitter, we swept Tampa, one of the best teams in the league, this weekend! The Jays are surely on a role right now and let's see what they can do with those Boston Red Sox! I say they take 2 of 3.
Going out to the Rogers Cup tomorrow night to enjoy some tennis-Roger Federer's playing!! Should be exciting!
-D
Saturday, 7 August 2010
Arencibia/Rogers Cup
Curtain call for JP Arencibia!!
How many rookies get that kind of treatment? Well, if you go 4-5 with 2 home runs, a double and a single, you would in any ballpark! That's what Jays catcher JP Arencibia got today at the Rogers Centre. On top of his 4 hit monster day, Arencibia hammered the FIRST PITCH he faced in the Major Leagues over the left field fence. It was simply incredible. Oh and the Jays won 17-7, with 20 hits, 8 of which were big bombs. Bautista slammed his 34th.
The Rogers Cup opened today in Toronto. I was there for my first shift as a volunteer this year. In addition to 4 qualifying matches, I was able to catch a glimpse of Rafael Nadal, Robin Soderling, Andy Murray, and David Ferrer. It was people and celebs galore. I got lots of good paparazzi shots. I'll post up the pics later!! More fun out there on the courts tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll catch a glimpse of Mr. Federer.
-D
PS. D'you know Djokovic/Nadal are playing doubles together in this tournament?!
How many rookies get that kind of treatment? Well, if you go 4-5 with 2 home runs, a double and a single, you would in any ballpark! That's what Jays catcher JP Arencibia got today at the Rogers Centre. On top of his 4 hit monster day, Arencibia hammered the FIRST PITCH he faced in the Major Leagues over the left field fence. It was simply incredible. Oh and the Jays won 17-7, with 20 hits, 8 of which were big bombs. Bautista slammed his 34th.
The Rogers Cup opened today in Toronto. I was there for my first shift as a volunteer this year. In addition to 4 qualifying matches, I was able to catch a glimpse of Rafael Nadal, Robin Soderling, Andy Murray, and David Ferrer. It was people and celebs galore. I got lots of good paparazzi shots. I'll post up the pics later!! More fun out there on the courts tomorrow. Hopefully, I'll catch a glimpse of Mr. Federer.
-D
PS. D'you know Djokovic/Nadal are playing doubles together in this tournament?!
Wednesday, 4 August 2010
It's About Time
After 13 games, more than 50 at bats, Alex Rodriguez has finally, on a sunny afternoon in New York, joined the 600 home run club!
It came against Shaun Marcum in the 1st inning, with Derek Jeter on first base, on a 2-0 count. He sailed it high and deep to centre field where the ball eventually touched down in Monument Park. A-Rod, at age 34, is the youngest player ever to reach that milestone and is just the 7th in MLB history to cross the 600 threshold. All my Congrats go out to him but here's my two cents worth on the situation.
We know A-Rod doped. That he admitted. This milestone is yet another tainted one, something we have seen too often in recent years. It may be true that he may very well break Barry Bonds' record of 762 home runs but there will be an asterisk there always. His home run pace is also slowing, not surprising considering he is now clean. Why else would there be so many no hitters this season in the MLB-it's because hitters are actually clean. I hope it remains that way because after all, it kind of bursts the bubble when you see the asterisk beside everyone's name in the record books.
-D
It came against Shaun Marcum in the 1st inning, with Derek Jeter on first base, on a 2-0 count. He sailed it high and deep to centre field where the ball eventually touched down in Monument Park. A-Rod, at age 34, is the youngest player ever to reach that milestone and is just the 7th in MLB history to cross the 600 threshold. All my Congrats go out to him but here's my two cents worth on the situation.
We know A-Rod doped. That he admitted. This milestone is yet another tainted one, something we have seen too often in recent years. It may be true that he may very well break Barry Bonds' record of 762 home runs but there will be an asterisk there always. His home run pace is also slowing, not surprising considering he is now clean. Why else would there be so many no hitters this season in the MLB-it's because hitters are actually clean. I hope it remains that way because after all, it kind of bursts the bubble when you see the asterisk beside everyone's name in the record books.
-D
Saturday, 31 July 2010
Trade Deadline
Major League Baseball's annual trade deadline came down at 4 PM this afternoon, capstoning a month that saw a flurry of deals.
Lance Berkman to the Yanks. Austin Kearns to the Yanks. Cliff Lee's big move from Seattle to Texas three weeks ago. Roy Oswalt found a new home in an already pitching-rich Philadelphia (also home to Halladay, Hamels, and Blanton albeit they did give up JA Happ). Danny Haren's move up to LA. No hitter pitcher Edwin Jackson went to the White Sox. Miguel Tejada's trot out west to San Diego along with Ryan Ludwick. Bengie Molina packed for Texas earlier this month. So did Cristian Guzman. This litany of moves is really not very surprising considering the competitive nature of some of the division races to this point in the season.
The Yanks and Rays are fighting for first place. Chicago and Minny are just separated by half a game. Detroit is only 6 games back in the Central too. Philly's just 3 back of Atlanta in the NL East while Florida and New York are 7 games game there. In NL Central, St. Louis and Cincinnati are TIED for first while just 8 games separate first and fourth place in the NL West. It's no wonder so many teams are making moves. August and September will be VERY interesting months to watch.
Got out to another Jays game this week. Went on Monday with a friend. We beat the Baltimore Orioles for the 10th straight time this season and the Jays went on to sweep the O's for the fourth time this year. 12 head to head match ups. 12 straight wins. I think Toronto's winning on the "beat up on Baltimore" front.
-D
Lance Berkman to the Yanks. Austin Kearns to the Yanks. Cliff Lee's big move from Seattle to Texas three weeks ago. Roy Oswalt found a new home in an already pitching-rich Philadelphia (also home to Halladay, Hamels, and Blanton albeit they did give up JA Happ). Danny Haren's move up to LA. No hitter pitcher Edwin Jackson went to the White Sox. Miguel Tejada's trot out west to San Diego along with Ryan Ludwick. Bengie Molina packed for Texas earlier this month. So did Cristian Guzman. This litany of moves is really not very surprising considering the competitive nature of some of the division races to this point in the season.
The Yanks and Rays are fighting for first place. Chicago and Minny are just separated by half a game. Detroit is only 6 games back in the Central too. Philly's just 3 back of Atlanta in the NL East while Florida and New York are 7 games game there. In NL Central, St. Louis and Cincinnati are TIED for first while just 8 games separate first and fourth place in the NL West. It's no wonder so many teams are making moves. August and September will be VERY interesting months to watch.
Got out to another Jays game this week. Went on Monday with a friend. We beat the Baltimore Orioles for the 10th straight time this season and the Jays went on to sweep the O's for the fourth time this year. 12 head to head match ups. 12 straight wins. I think Toronto's winning on the "beat up on Baltimore" front.
-D
Tuesday, 27 July 2010
Five and Counting
Barely a month after Edwin Jackson laboured through 149 pitches to get his no-no gem, Matt Garza of the Tampa Bay Rays threw a no-hitter of his own, Tampa's first in franchise history, after a slew of games in which they were on the wrong end of history.
Garza faced the minimum 27 batters after inducing a DP after walking a batter with one out in the 2nd. This is the 5th (really the 6th) no hitter in the MLB this season. That's really really impressive considering we have two FULL months of baseball still to go. I think we can very well break the single season record of 7 and I'm still sticking by my prediction that one of the Jays pitchers will do it!!
I don't know about you but I'm just loving these no hitters!! Always love to witness the history and always very interesting to see which pitchers accomplish the feat. Garza is a star in his own right without the no-hitter and I think he will have a productive career by the time all is said and done!
Congrats, Matt!!
-D
PS. I was in Washington, DC all of last week for a week long politics program at Georgetown University. I wanted to see the Nationals play but they were unfortunately out of town. It was a brilliant week though. Hot too, 38 degrees!!
Garza faced the minimum 27 batters after inducing a DP after walking a batter with one out in the 2nd. This is the 5th (really the 6th) no hitter in the MLB this season. That's really really impressive considering we have two FULL months of baseball still to go. I think we can very well break the single season record of 7 and I'm still sticking by my prediction that one of the Jays pitchers will do it!!
I don't know about you but I'm just loving these no hitters!! Always love to witness the history and always very interesting to see which pitchers accomplish the feat. Garza is a star in his own right without the no-hitter and I think he will have a productive career by the time all is said and done!
Congrats, Matt!!
-D
PS. I was in Washington, DC all of last week for a week long politics program at Georgetown University. I wanted to see the Nationals play but they were unfortunately out of town. It was a brilliant week though. Hot too, 38 degrees!!
Thursday, 15 July 2010
Bob and George
This week has been an eventful one in baseball.
Besides the home run derby (which wasn't all that exciting) won by Big Papi and a more entertaining, but pitcher-dominated Midsummer Classic, two significant deaths rocked the baseball, and more specifically, the New York Yankees community.
Last weekend, long time Yankee stadium PA announcer (and I mean LONGGGGG time-56 years to be exact) Bob Sheppard passed away just weeks before his 100th birthday. Sheppard's voice was a part of every Yankees game for more than a half century and he even worked for the New York Giants at one time. A truly sad passing for a truly legendary figure behind the mike.
Then, on the morning of the All Star matchup, George Steinbrenner, otherwise known as "The Boss" of the New York Yankees, suffered a heart attack and later died. He was age 80. Obviously, it was a TREMENDOUS loss for the Yankees family, as Steinbrenner was no doubt the paternal figure of sorts in New York. He turned the entire Yankees organization around after purchasing it in 1973 and won 7 World Series titles, along with 22 managerial changes. Although Steinbrenner had a negatively notorious reputation with some, his loss is a monumental one to baseball.
More positive news out of the MLB. The National League finally captured their first All Star victory since 1996. So come October, the Senior Circuit will have home field advantage in the World Series for the first time since that honour had been decided by the Midsummer Classic. It was a wonderful game but I think the AL had plenty of chances to get even, especially in the 7th inning on...oh well, the changing of the guard is occasionally nice.
-D
PS. Congratulations Spain but that was a pretty pitiful final, even for a non-soccer fan like me.
Besides the home run derby (which wasn't all that exciting) won by Big Papi and a more entertaining, but pitcher-dominated Midsummer Classic, two significant deaths rocked the baseball, and more specifically, the New York Yankees community.
Last weekend, long time Yankee stadium PA announcer (and I mean LONGGGGG time-56 years to be exact) Bob Sheppard passed away just weeks before his 100th birthday. Sheppard's voice was a part of every Yankees game for more than a half century and he even worked for the New York Giants at one time. A truly sad passing for a truly legendary figure behind the mike.
Then, on the morning of the All Star matchup, George Steinbrenner, otherwise known as "The Boss" of the New York Yankees, suffered a heart attack and later died. He was age 80. Obviously, it was a TREMENDOUS loss for the Yankees family, as Steinbrenner was no doubt the paternal figure of sorts in New York. He turned the entire Yankees organization around after purchasing it in 1973 and won 7 World Series titles, along with 22 managerial changes. Although Steinbrenner had a negatively notorious reputation with some, his loss is a monumental one to baseball.
More positive news out of the MLB. The National League finally captured their first All Star victory since 1996. So come October, the Senior Circuit will have home field advantage in the World Series for the first time since that honour had been decided by the Midsummer Classic. It was a wonderful game but I think the AL had plenty of chances to get even, especially in the 7th inning on...oh well, the changing of the guard is occasionally nice.
-D
PS. Congratulations Spain but that was a pretty pitiful final, even for a non-soccer fan like me.
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