Monday, January 26, 2009

Match Day 23

I really wish Ace wouldn't make fun of the clothes I wear. I can't help it I love being a redneck. Anyways, I really don't have much to say except that I have been extremely disappointed in the transfer market. Am I to believe that the global economy is so bad that no one wants to pull out their balls and try and get at least one big gun for the stretch run. Even Manchester United and Chelsea have kept their dicks and checkbooks in their pants. It truly is a sad day. On to the predictions.

Tottenham 2 - 1 Stoke City
Harry Redknapp has been the busiest guy so far in the transfer market. Of course he is only buying more crap to put onto the already high crap pile of players at White Hart Lane. At least he is trying. Stoke suck, Tottenham suck less. Tottenham pull this one out.

Portsmouth 0 - 2 Aston Villa
David James is one of about three goalkeepers who can actually keep his team in a game but sadly all he does this week is keep his team from being beaten by more than two goals. Martin O'Neil makes a great move by bringing in Emile Heskey. This will be a big addition to the Villa attack. Young, Berry, Heskey, Agbonlahor, Milner, Petrov all will pose major threats to the Pompey defense and in the end all will be successful with a full three points.

Manchester City 3 - 0 Newcastle
Deep down I think all three morons believe that the Newcastle team is pretty good but sadly their team chemistry and spirit are lacking. Along with any semblance of a decent coach. ManCity's weapons run riot all over the pitch and take some heat from Mark Hughes.

Wigan 1-3 Liverpool
Liverpool need this. The players, the coaches, the owners and most specifically the fans need an easy win. They have fallen from the top spot and are in danger of fallen out of the race completely. Above all their confidence really needs a boost and there are way to many quality players on this roster to lose or even draw with Wigan. We might finally see Torres and Keane up top together. But to be honest for the first time I am beginning to question "Rafa" and all his tinkering. In two straight Merseyside derby's Keane and Torres did not play together. Horrible, just horrible. Maybe somehow his head will become dislodged from his ass and he will see the light of day with his team's selection. (Sorry to ramble but maybe just maybe I am a Liverpool fan).

Everton 1-1 Arsenal
Everton actually have the advantage when it comes to team form. Arsenal has the advantage when it comes to talent. This a game taylor made for the type of match that Moyes is known for. His team is at home, out gunned (sorry for the pun), out classed but not out played. This won't be the most attractive football but all Moyes and Evrton want is a point. They will bunker down and play 10 or 11 behind the ball and look for a counter-attack or a set piece to score their goal. Ace will absolutely hate this game and most football fans will too. But all Everton and Moyes has to answer to are thier fans and themselves. One more tangent. Even though I sometimes support Liverpool where in the world does Benitez get the idea that somehow he can critize Moyes for playing unattractive football. Benitez does not sign the paychecks at Everton and if he wanted to be happy at the end of the day why doesn't he send out his best squad day in and day out. For my money Moyes does more with less than any manager in the EPL. And to add to this I think Benitez will be leaving Liverpool at the end of the season.

Until next time make sure you wipe your asses with your left hand.

BPL Predictions 01/27 - 01/28

I saw a kid’s shirt today that read “In the spring I strut. In the fall I rut” and had a picture of a deer and a turkey on it. That pretty much sums it up boys... if you're a dumbass hilljack. I'm sure the ladies just come in swarms when they see big, dumb, camo-overall-toting morons wearing that high-class shirt. Git 'er dun!

I’m thinking that to numb my senses from this agonizing redneckiness, I will bring some joy to my life by thinking about our upcoming “weekday” extravaganza of BPL soccer!!! You’ll notice something strange about all my predictions… yep, they are all 2-1 scores. Why, you may ask? To the average dick, mine surpasses others in length and circumference almost by an almost 2:1 ratio. You don’t have to say it. I know it’s crazy. But it’s true. Now on to wisdom I shall pour forth unto thee.

Tottenham 2 Stoke 1
Spurs seem to be playing better once again after a bit of a slump through late December and earlier this month. Stoke has been better of late as well, but on the road they’re not very competitive. I see the final for this one ending in favor of Spurs considering Stoke are the only other team (besides Fulham) to be winless on the road so far this season. And the hits just keep on coming.

Portsmouth 2 Aston Villa 1
Ashley Young is out for the Villains, who could certainly use his pace against the slower, more “experienced” back line of Pompey. By experienced I mean older and more decrepit. HOWEVER, I’m sticking to my guns (noisy cricket in the left hand and tommy gun in the right) of 2-1 wins, and since I have it out for Villa and in my spite and bitterness will predict against them every week, I choose Pompey here in a battle of midfields. In the end, the quality of Kranjcaar and Crouch will prove costly for Villa in their quest to secure a 4th place spot.

Man City 1 Newcastle 2
What an awesome fixture...“this suit is black”…Not. Robinho’s infamous departure for his native Brazil will not help the cause at City. They already stink without him, and he is by far their best playmaker, scorer, defender, and probably goalkeeper. Newcastle pick up much needed points on the road in what is probably a decent game with a lot of open play.

Wigan 2 Liverpool 1
This is my “Old Man is Snoring” pick of the week. Liverpool come off their draw with Everton and now hit a bump in the road of their quest for PL trophy glory. Wigan’s recent sale of Heskey probably hurts a bit up top, but it does allow for some fresh blood to show their worth either in midfield or in that vacant striker position. I think Wigan pulls the mini-upset here.

Everton 1 Arsenal 2
Draws in the FA Cup aside, these two teams are going to continue to stay in that 5th-8th place range unless they can turn the “tables” soon. The Gunners are running out of time for their title run and/or top four finish. They are only a handful of points back from first place, but if they aren’t going to pull the trigger on any transfers, then they might as well kiss any title hopes goodbye. “Mmmwah… adios Title Hopes.” In the meantime, Everton are annually in this middle of the pack position. Because that’s exactly where they are… middle of the pack, especially considering the bottom 12 are separated by a whole 5 points. My alternate prediction: 0-0...this could be an exceptionally boring game as well.

Sign off: Don't chug 3 beers at once. It could be hazardous to your health.

Saturday, January 24, 2009

Dobber's Match Day 23 Predictions

The Trio's league table is all tied up heading into Match Day 23, but there will be separation following our five selections for this weekend. The Dobber had a solid week last week with a 3-2 finish, including a spot-on call with Tottenham v. Portsmouth "Toilet Stinker Match of the Week." This week I'm looking to go a step further with at least a 4-1 record and storm the table for top prize. Watch out Ace and Eugene, the Dobber's coming for your bitch asses.

Tottenham 3 Stoke City 1
Dobber's getting things off to a fast start with the first prediction nailing the "Toilet Stinker Match of the Week" award for Match Day 23. Tottenham and Stoke are both circulating the proverbial relegation toilet bowl, and will be vying for 3 pts that can help make the difference between staying with the big boys or going down to the minors. Fortunately for Tottenham , they're offensive attack will find success over Stoke's defensive and will catapult Tottenham up towards the 12-14 spot of the table. Sorry Stoke, your ass is going to be relegated this season.

Portsmouth 1 Aston Villa 2
Aston Villa is trying to hold on to their 4th spot in the table and even though they're on the road, they'll be traveling to Portsmouth. These two teams have a interesting parallel in that Villa has a +13 goal differential, while Portsmouth is about the same at 12. Although the big difference is that Portsmouth is -12. So how is this an interesting parallel? It isn't. One club scores a lot more than they give up and the other club gives up much more than they score. Even at home, that doesn't bode well for Portsmouth. Villa will enter Portsmouth and walk away with 3 pts, keeping them ahead of Arsenal for that lucrative 4th CL spot for another week.

Manchester City 3 Newcastle 1
In a battle of two middle of the pack clubs, Man City hosts Newcastle in a match that could be over very early for Newcastle. Man City has an attack that is one of the best in the premier league and something tells the old Dobber that they'll want to show the club supporter's that they can still put points on the board without the services of Kaka. If this match was at Newcastle, I might give them a chance to sqweek out a draw, but with this meeting being held within the City of Manchester, Newcastle will leave with no points.

Wigan 1 Liverpool 1
At the beginning of the season, this looked like a sure winner for Liverpool. However with the events of the last few weeks, this match is shaping up to be quite the entertainer. Wigan has found success in 3 of their last 4 matches, with the only loser a 1-0 defeat at the Emirates. Meanwhile, Liverpool stuttered for a few weeks in December before back to back thrashings of Bolton and Newcastle. But they followed that up with a 1-1 draw at Anfield to Everton. So the question is, which Liverpool side will show up? I'm thinking it will be the underachievers and I'm betting on Wigan to slow down Liverpool's attack and find themselves with a much needed point at the final whistle.

Everton 1 Arsenal 2
Another relatively top bill this weekend sees Everton hosting Arsenal. Much of the talk this week has been surrounding the Gunners and their pursuit of Andrea Arshavin. Zenit is apparently holding Arshavin for ransom and have turned down the Gunners recent $15M Euro offer and set a Saturday night deadline for Arsenal to meet the clubs demands. Those demands have been rumored to be $20M Euros, so it's looking more likely Arshavin will not see the pitch at the Emirates this season. With all the worldwind around this situation, the Gunners must focus their attention on a dangerous opponent in Everton. While Everton has had a pretty solid attack so far this season, their back line has been suspect at times, and will be exposed once again by the Gunners. It won't be easy for the Gunners, but they'll get the late go ahead goal to secure 3 pts and put more pressure on Aston Villa.

Tuesday, January 20, 2009

Fixture Records, Etc.

What a week. The Kaka saga finally ended with Kaka refusing to leave Milan... or, as Man City claims, negotiations were terminated. Riiiiiiiiiight.

Arsenal have waited for such a long period to put pen to paper and pay the playmaker "p"Arshavin (note the alliteration and rhyme) that it seems Man City might swoop in like the damn buzzards that they are and nab AA away from Arsene. As of this morning I am a bit irritable about for two reasons: 1) why would Arshavin even think about signing with them instead of Arsenal? 2) why do the Gunners continue to delay such necessary signings? Seriously. Granted, I would prefer to see them sign a solid defender or defensive mid, but they do also need a boost in attack with the depth of injuries (Fabregas, Rosicky, Walcott, Eduardo). Eduardo seems to be on the comeback trail (for real) as he netted a hattie in a reserves game. Yeah, big deal right? Watch the video from last February of his injury again and say that. Anyway, once he is back, I think the Gunners will have the opportunity to put a more potent attack on the field each and every game. One player could be tired or have a nagging injury. No matter. Van Persie comes off, Bendtner goes on. Ade comes off, Eduardo comes on. I still think a late charge for a "special" midfield defender is in the best interest of this club. That way Wenger would be forced to use Eboue as a backup RB instead of RM. Ugh.

Ok, on to the rankings. I'm sad to say that I am no longer in first place and Dobber is no longer in last place. In fact, after this last weekend's shenanigans we are all squared up.

ACE 5-8
DOBBER 5-8
EUGENE 5-8
I'm excited to get back into action next Tuesday and Wednesday. Let's have our predictions for the new round in by Monday. Hey ooooooooooohhh!!!!!!!!!!

Saturday, January 17, 2009

Match Day 22

Sitting Mid-Table at 3-5 makes me feel more like a team fighting against regulation rather than a team that with one good week could be fighting for the top spot. Mid pack is not a bad place to be, if your Fulham, but I'm trying to make it big and win the whole damn thing. Before I predict i would like to share some transfer season thoughts:

1. Arsenal has done nothing. Surprise, Surprise. If the Gunners bring in no new blood I am predicting that the will not finish in the top four. No Champions League and no Champions League money. This might hurt.
2. Manchester City will get Kaka. Wow is one man worth $145 million. I can not believe that Kaka will make that much of a difference. mainly because he doesn't play central defense. This team leaks goals and could use a major addition to the defense. maybe like the big ole American Oguchi Onyewu.
3. I suspect that Mr. O'Neill down at Aston Villa has a trick or two up his sleeve and will produce at least one big time transfer to the Villains.

Now on to this week:

Hull 1 - 1 Arsenal
This match is a big replay from the one that put little Hull City on the Premier League map. I have to believe that Arsenal must win this game and Hull would be ecstatic with a draw. One moment of brilliance for Hull and 90 minutes of frustration and missed opportunities for the Gunners. This might be the dropped points that mean a missed top four spot for Arsenal.

Tottenham 2-1 Portsmouth
Harry versus his old team, Defoe suiting up against former teammates and a couple of teams that need and I mean in the most desperate way, need the three points. Defoe gets one against his old team and paves the way for Portsmouth to drop. Portsmouth is playing a like a sinking ship and all the players know it. You can just imagine Peter Crouch's agent calling every EPL team about a summer transfer, right now. Harry Redknapp knows this Portsmouth team weaknesses and will exploit them. Oh what are those weaknesses: zero pace up front and in the back, little experience in the mid-field and a manager who is way in over his head. Expect the Spurs to play fast the whole game and wear this team out.

Liverpool 1-0 Everton
This is going to be a very chippy Merseyside Derby. Liverpool need a win just to keep pace with a Manchester United team who has one game in hand. Everton needs this win to stay on pace for a UEFA Cup spot. This game with be played with a nasty, physical bite to it. Everton have very limited options up front and I hope Mr. Benitez realizes that Everton will not be an attacking force and plays Keane and Torres up front together. The only question will be how long the Everton defense and primarily Mr. Timmy Turrets keeps a clean sheet. If Tim Howard stand son his head he could keep Everton in it all the way. But I don't see that happening.

Sunderland 0-3 Aston Villa
Three simple words: To Much Pace. And Aston Villa controls it all. I have visions of Usain Bolt versus me as the perfect example for this match. Sunderland will keep 10 behind the ball and hope not to get run over. Which will not be the case. Barry, Young, Milner, Agbonlehor, Petrov will all play puppet master with the Sunderland defense. This will be a must win for Aston Villa's top four aspirations and they will not disappoint.

Manchester City 3 - 1 Wigan
According to the form guide Wigan is the fourth best team in the EPL over the past 6 matches. Raise your hand if you believe that. Oh by the way ManCity sits 14th in the form guide. City have too much talent, Hughes is to good of a manager, and at some point you have to believe that they will put it all together and make a run at the top ten. Well at least I think they have to. With it looking more and more likely that Mr. Kaka will join the citizens, the team will play with confidence and swagger. Robinho will run around so much it will make the Wigan defense dizzy. The Citizens in a run away.

Until next time remember to always eat after you pick.......................your nose!

Thursday, January 15, 2009

Dobber's Match Day 22 Predictions

While the Dobber sits with a 2-6 record (even with a dead on prediction of Everton v. Hull City in Match Day 21) since joining this blog, I've got my eyes on catching Ace by running the table. Running the table? Get it? Just like a football league table. Either that or I'll have another 0-5 showing and go down faster than a high school prom queen on prom night. Now, on to the predictions!

Hull City 0 Arsenal 2
Hull City has been a fun team to watch this season and kudos for them for not going all Bolton on their opponents. But the fact of the matter is Hull City gives up more goals than any other club in the league. That plays right into Arsenal's game that has the Gunners as consistently one of the league's top scoring sides year after year. While this year has been an up and down ride for the Gunners, this week's fixture with Hull City will be one of Arsenal's high points. A clean sheet for Almunia and high spirits for Arsenal players and Gunner fans alike.

Tottenham 1 Portsmouth 1
This week's "Toilet Stinker Match of the Week" goes to Tottenham and Portsmouth. Why are we even predicting this garbage? Does anyone even care about this match? Seriously, I beg for even a Tottenham or Portsmouth fan to show themselves in public and watch this match. If I had tickets to this match, I'd properly sell them for a pint of beer in a warm pub and watch a real match instead. Hell, I'd even buy the lad who bought me a beer a beer just as consolation in having to watch this match. Oh, and this match ends in a draw because, well, both teams just plain suck.

Liverpool 2 Everton 0
Everton had a nice victory over Hull City last weekend, while Liverpool sputtered to a draw with Stoke. Liverpool fans have to be pissed at that showing, but will be rewarded by a solid effort The Reds in this one. No way Liverpool comes home to Anfield and drops more points. They'll hold on to the top spot this week, but don't get too excited Liverpool fans; the day ManU stages a coup and overthrows your regime is coming.

Sunderland 1 Aston Villa 1
While I agree with Ace that Villa will lose their fourth place standing, it's not going to quite happen this week. The Dobber is predicting that after taking a lead in the 60th minute, Sunderland will try to secure a victory and fall back and play defense. Unfortunately, playing defense is not one of Sunderland's strong suits and they'll concede an equalizer in a match they should have won. Villa luckily leaves with a much needed point and retains their fourth spot in the league table for at least one more week.

Manchester City 3 Wigan 2
Manchester City had a busy week this week offering $145 million to Kaka, only to be rejected. Ouch. That has to hurt. Luckily for City, they get to take out their aggression on Wigan's back line. Plus, after last week's postponement, Manchester City will be well rested and should be firing on all cylinders offensively. While City isn't stellar on the back line, they'll do just enough to get a home victory and three points.

Wednesday, January 14, 2009

BPL Predictions 01/17 - 01/19

I told the boys this week had some interesting matchups. Of course, I'm right. The most impressive thing though is that I still enter this weekend at the top of this fixture table. A 4-4 record isn't bad I suppose... better than my two quack opponents. Therefore, I've decided to let loose a little this week and add a bit of spice to my picks. So, without much further ado, I present to you my picks for Round 23 or whatever it is. I trust you will sit back, kick your feet up on the back of your enslaved midget hooker, grab a big bottle of chihuahua piss to imbibe on, and check these out.


Hull City 0 Arsenal 2
I cannot say with a lot of confidence that Arsenal will easily win this match, but I can say that at least Hull City will come after the Gunners. It’s at their crib, and they will be “gunning” for the points like they earned away at the Emirates, aka The Stadium of Flight. Get it.

Anyway, if Hull is not putting TEN STINKING MEN BEHIND THE BALL LIKE THOSE PUSSIES FROM BOLTON AND ANY OTHER TEAM WHO SUCKS BALLS, then it should be an interesting match. I can even see Hull putting one in the back of the net. However, Arsenal should maintain the majority of possession, like usual, and that they will find a consistent connection from midfield to the strikers up top. Let the “shots on goal” parade begin.


Tottenham 2 Portsmouth 1
I actually cannot believe I just had Spurs winning a match. While it’s true that Portsmouth is 3 points up on the Pansies with the Chicken Logo, it’s obvious that Portsmouth is on a freefall. I don’t agree with Eugene Turk’s madness that Portsmouth will be playing for a return to the BPL this time next season, but I can say that they are vulnerable at the moment. It only makes sense that they boys from Tottenham will take advantage of other boys at their weakest hour.


Liverpool 3 Everton 1
“Ever…ton! Ever…ton! Is anyone Ever…gon…na care?!”

Ol’ Dobber said last week something about a “Stinker” pick or something. Welp, this match has the potential to smell like Eugene’s ass after a drunk-on-tequila Sunday barbeque. The Reds romp and ask Everton’s mothers how they like it.


Sunderland 1 Aston Villa 0
Yeah yeah, call me crazy. Most likely I am, but I have a feeling that Sunderland will protect their homestead like Dobber protects his monthly edition of Playgirl. Who knows? The Villains are still riding high in that Champions League fourth position, but who says they will actually hang on? The colder months affect every team, and it’s time the Villains fall.

Manchester City 2 Wigan 2
Believe it or not, but this match might be the most intriguing of them all. Did anybody notice that Wigan is currently in 7th place? How the hell did that happen?

I digress for a moment... Wigan lost 1-0 midweek to Man United on a 1st minute goal. On one hand one could say they’re not very good if they’re giving up first minute goals. On the other hand one could ponder how they didn’t concede a single goal the rest of the way. You know that United wasn’t backing down, and you know that the Latics were trying to score. In the end, they couldn’t put home an equalizer, but they did send a warning that maybe 7th isn’t as ridiculous as you might think.

Anyway, since Man City hasn’t spent another 50 million pounds on anybody just yet, I’m not sure if they have a big enough payroll to win this one (sarcasm- sɑr kæz əm- 1. harsh or bitter derision or irony. 2. a sharply ironical taunt; sneering or cutting remark). I figure this one will have some good goals in it, and if a winner is involved, it is sure to prove a momentum-builder for whoever nets it.

I guess I should have a cool sign-off like Eugene...
Until next time, remember to wipe after you dump. Later morons.

Friday, January 9, 2009

Match Day 21

Here we are again. A Trio of Morons trying to predict the unpredictable. The EPL is probably the toughest league to predict. But here we are. On to the slate of games.

Home Teams in Bold
Arsenal v Bolton
This should be a reasonably easy game to predict but....oh hell Bolton will get run off the pitch. Arsenal at home, a few weeks off, and the biggest reason: Arsenal has a major point to prove. The Gunners have not been themselves for awhile. Even with the injuries to the backline this looks to be a easy one. Arsenal 4 - 1 Bolton.

Fulham v Blackburn
Recent form suggests that this game should be easy for Fulham. It's a home match against one of the league's least potent offense's. Let's just say that if Blackburn were a man they would be going to their family doctor and getting the little blue pills. Big Sam might have led them to an impressive debut win but against a team as confident as Fulham this will not end so well for Big Sam and his army. If Big Sam is the savior that Blackburn needs this would be a great game to start the saving. I see Fulham winning this going away: Fulham 2- 0 Blackburn.

Everton v Hull City
This years Premier League darlings with last years Big Four Crasher(well almost). Everton has gotten so needy for a striker that they have even tried to pry American starlet Jozy Altidore from Villareal. Hull City will impress, they will play with verve and pass the ball like a poor man's Arsenal but in the end will it be enough, I say it will be. Hull City 2 - 1 Everton.

Portsmouth v Manchester City
No Defoe, no Diarra, no Redknapp, and no chance. Portsmouth is in way over it's head. A small fish in a big boy pond. I think this will be a big chance for Manchester City's fire power to display itself. Ireland, SWP, and Robinho will all show the Portsmouth why they need to go back to the drawing board and by drawing board I mean the Championship. Manchester City 5 - 1 Portsmouth.

And on to the big show:
Mancester United v Chelsea
I envision a dream match up where two very talented teams are running up and down the field, slotting slick passers through defenders and using each other's goals for target practice. ManU and Chelsea have had a recent history of competitive games. They hate each other. And I mean hate each other. This game will be chippy with plenty of late tackles and fisticuffs. Tery is back for Chelsea and Ferdinand is back for the Red Devils. If Drogba has the "passion" back and Ferguson actually plays the correct squad, Tevez over Berbatov. Rooney will be his usual self, which means all over the place with a well taken goal and a half dozen other chances for others to score from his passes. The midfield's really negate each other and both defenses are excellent. It's up front where these two teams differ and ManU are miles ahead of Chelsea in the striker department. Manchester United 2 - 0 Chelsea.

Until next time get your chronic rolled......................

BPL Predictions 01/10 --- 01/11

I suppose my gift of foresight wasn't quite as accurate last round as I thought. However, I saw well enough into the future to kick the asses of my two compatriots. Anyway, this week my picks are spot on. Go ahead and put your life savings down. What you are about to read is the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth. Ka-Zaam!!!!!!!!!!!!

Arsenal 4 Bolton 1
At the Emirates, the Gunners finally get a big, breakthrough win that they not only need, but deserve also. It seems that RvP is confident again following a pair of goals in the FA Cup. Plus, as painful as the loss of Fabregas is, Arsenal still have players (albeit obviously less talented players) that can occupy the midfield, deliver timely passes, and even conjure up brief moments of brilliance.

Against a Bolton team that is known to defend well and play for set pieces and counters, Arsenal will apply pressure early and often in order to have a plethora of chances to unlock the Wanderers defense. Surprisingly for Gunners fans and soccer lovers throughout the world, “a cross in by Bolton” will be heard a hundred times. However, I believe Arsenal will get caught once again defending poorly and give up a goal during the run of play.

Fulham 2 Blackburn 1
Blackburn surprised in their first match under Big Sam. Their last 3 fixtures? A 3-0 win versus Stoke, a 0-0 draw at awful Sunderland, and a 2-2 draw at an inconsistent Man City. Those might be the worst 5 points earned in one stretch by any team all season. Plus, I wonder if there are any distractions in the locker room though with the potential sale of Santa Cruz. The guy wants out, and the “lads” probably don’t appreciate that too much. But hell, can you blame a rat for abandoning a sinking ship?

Fulham tied one on two weeks ago and went to work against Middlesborough. They also drew 0-0 with Spurs and 2-2 with Chelsea last week. In each of their last 5 matches, these two teams have fairly similar records, but I believe Fulham to be the stronger team by far. I’m glad to see that Fulham is faring better this season, but I’m not sold yet on whether they can close out games like they failed to do last term. Now? I’m still not 100% sold, but I am reaching for my wallet.

Everton 2 Hull City 0
While Everton is one of the most boring teams in all of the BPL, Hull City may be one of the most interestingly unpredictable teams. They had a dream start, but soon faded. They had a reawakening, which included a draw with Liverpool. Now they are on a 3-match skid losing big both to Sunderland and Man City and a 1-0 loss to Villa. In those 3 losses they have conceded 10 goals and scored 2. Ouch.

Everton have not conceded a goal in their last 4 matches, including bouts with Chelsea and Man City who can both put up some numbers. However, they only put up 4 of their own. Pretty *bleeping* ridiculous. Oh, what’s that? No cursing? What did I say before? No one is reading this… it’s about Everton.

Portsmouth 0 Manchester City 2
Portsmouth’s defense is just good enough to keep this from being a blowout. A series of recent changes will prove detrimental to this team for this game, and eventually to their season. The Jermaine Defoe soap opera with Spurs is sure to be a glaring problem within the Pompey walls. Diarra’s loss will hurt significantly, and whether Tony Adams will still have a job after January is another issue to be considered.

Man City will control the pace and rhythm of this game against their scattered opponent. It is likely Hughes and crew will put up bigger numbers, but their consistency is questionable and I think a 2-0 win is fitting.

Manchester United 0 Chelsea 2
This game is expected to be an insanely crazy, up-and-down, lots of action, fun game to watch. I think it will most definitely offer some interesting side stories, possibly even the infamous “penalty/no penalty” dialogue. In the end, Chelsea will score early and late. Before the Blues' second goal, ManU will be slithering this way and that trying their darndest to score, and this will lead to a pseudo-exciting finish where people are shooting from everywhere and the announcers are breathing heavily trying to keep up. Chelsea will score again to seal victory away from home. I hate Chelsea.

Thursday, January 8, 2009

Dobber's EPL Predictions - Week 19

Week 18 proved to be a rough week of predictions for the Dobber, but I'm back at it again and determined to have my legacy be more than "when betting, look at Dobber's picks and do the exact opposite. You can't go wrong!" You may not know me very well, or at all in all honesty, but trust when I tell you that the Dobber is better than that. Without further ado, on to Dobber's predictions of the Trio's 5 selections from EPL action from the other half of the globe.


Arsenal 2 Bolton 1
Arsenal's defense suffered a setback this week as Arsene Wenger confirming once captain and locker room vocalist William Gallas will join Mickael Silvestre on the sidelines for three weeks. The good news for the Gunners is that Denilson and Kolo Toure will return to action as the Gunners host Bolton. They will need the reinforcements as Bolton is a side that typically causes problems for Arsenal. Why is that? Well according to Marc Illes of the Bolton Evening News, "the two teams are like chalk and cheese." What the hell does that mean? I have absolutely no idea. What I do know is that this match will be tighter for Arsenal than any Gunner fan can hope for. But I still see Arsenal coming out on top with a home goal somewhere in the 80th minute mark to break what will otherwise be an uninspiring performance by Wenger's squad.

Fulham 3 Blackburn 0
Only 8 points separate Fulham and Blackburn in the league table, but Fulham sits comfortably at no. 9, while Blackburn is desperately trying to avoid regelation, currently sitting at no. 19. If Blackburn is to indeed avoid regelation, they need to secure points on the road. The problem is, its just not going to happen at Craven Cottage. Fulham plays pretty well at home and will be sitting even prettier after scoring goals at will against the hapless Blackburn back line. In fact, Blackburn's defense is so poor, the only team which give up more goals...

Everton 2 Hull City 0
...is Hull City. Did he really just combine the analysis of two picks by an ellipsis? You bet your ass he did. That's how Dobber roles. And why is he still talking about it? Because reading a post about ellipsis is cause for more excitement than a matchup of Everton and Hull City. To Hull City's credit, they do tend to show up against the top sqauds. Unfortunately for Hull City, Everton doesn't fall into this category. (Note: from now on, the Dobber will pick a "toilet stinker match of the week" from one of the five matches The Trio choses to predict.) This match has stinker written all over it. Congratulations Everton v. Hull City, who've just been awarded the Dobber's inaugural "toilet stinker match of the week." Everton wins easier than what the score might suggest.

Portsmouth 2 Manchester City 2
Manchester City is desparetly trying to buy the big names in the January transfer window to translate into victories. Too bad none of their rumored targets have slipped on a City jersey and stepped onto the pitch. While Robinho has put together a nice first half of the season, the fact of the matter is Manchester City is just not that good. But hey, neither is Portsmouth. This match offers City with the opportunity to steal three points from an inferior opponent. Problem is, they'll figure out a way to screw it up. Possibly even by handing Portsmouth a point with an own goal. I can't be sure on how City will screw it up, but I can be certain that this match ends in a draw.

Manchester United 1 Chelsea 1
Fresh off of smashing his sports car into a tunnel guard rail, Cristiano Ronaldo and the boys at ManU look to make up ground in the league table by hosting Chelsea. This match is clearly the top bill of the week and with good reason. The two powerhouses will battle it out to stay within striking distance of Liverpool, who should take three points at Stoke City on Saturday, and should provide EPL fans with a treat of strong to quite strong footy. While ManU have the home pitch advantage in this one, something just tells me that Chelsea is going to snatch a late equaliser in this match and exit Old Trafford with a point to show, leaving ManU fans feeling like they were riding shotgun with Ronaldo.

Saturday, January 3, 2009

It Wasn't Easy

I suppose I'll take a moment or two and bask in the glory of having the highest number of correct predictions from a "fortnight" ago, or whatever those crazy Brits say. Anyway, I know that finishing 2-3 is not what I had hoped for in the end. In fact, mediocrity is probably what I would call that, BUT THAT'S BESIDE THE POINT, NEITHER HERE NOR THERE.

The fact remains... Mr. Turk (Eugene) and Dobberino McDobbydob combined for the proverbial "laying of the egg." El Zero as they say down yonder.

I am going to throw out an idea though that may change the way we keep track of these scores... I'm thinking that a perfect prediction should equal 3 points, while any correct prediction of a winning team will earn just 1 point. Just a thought. Predicted draws would equal 3 points, which kind of sucks though... hmmm... maybe we can figure something out together. After all, we are...

THE 3 MORONS!!!

Friday, January 2, 2009

Grading Jim Hendry's Offseason Moves

*Last updated January 30, 2009.

While we here at Worthless Sentiments have focused our recent posts on the EPL (excellent Transfer Season Talk post by the way Eugene), another topic near and dear to our hearts has also be dabbling in "transfers" recently...the Trio's beloved Chicago Cubs. The deals over the past few months, and more importantly over the past few days, has this Dobber scratching his head. Let's take a closer look at a few of the additions and subtractions so far this offseason by the "two-time defending NL Central Champs and subsequently swept from the playoffs by inferior opponents" Chicago Cubs.

Note: all grades are given based on the team as it stands to date. Any acquisitions to the team that affects the grades outlined will be updated once the transactions are official.

Jan. 30 - Sign C Paul Bako
The Paul Bako signing had been rumored for weeks and after clearing space on the 40-man roster, it became official today. The contract terms were not disclosed, but rumors stated that Bako will earn between $500-$750K this season. Funny thing, but the amount of cash the Cubs will shell out for Bako is basically the same amount the Padres will pay Henry Blanco ($750K) this season. Now I'm not going into too much depth for a back up catcher, but let's just take a quick look at last year's stats.

Bako - .217/.299/.328 and he threw out 22 of 77 baserunners (28.5%)
Blanco - .292/.325/.392 and he threw out 10 of 22 baserunners (45.5%)

Pretty much seems like Blanco is much better than Bako doesn't it? Well, that's because he is. The only reason the Cubs let Blanco walk is that he hits from the right side of the plate, while Bako hits from the left. Big deal. It doesn't matter which side of the plate you stand at if you can't hit. And as outlined above, Bako can't hit and he can't throw out baserunners. Better hope Soto is healthy all year Cubs fans.

Dobbers Grade: F

Jan. 28 - Trade INF Ronny Cedeno and RP Garrett Olson to Mariners for RP Aaron Heilman
The Cubs traded another one-time touted prospect in Ronny Cedeno and a guy who never actually wore a Cubs jersey in Garrett Olson to the Mariners for Aaron Heilman, a guy who never wore a Mariners jersey. Heilman had great success in his first few seasons in the majors, but had an absolutely abysmaal 2008 campaign for the New York Mets, before being traded for the first time this offseason in the J.J. Putz deal. There has been a lot of talk on message boards bashing this trade, but I actually think this is a good deal for the Cubs. For everyone who doesn't like the trade because they think Heilman sucks, well, I'll say you may very well be right. But you know who else sucks? Ronny Cedeno. This is a guy who was supposed to be a main stay at SS, but could never play consistent enough defense or actually hit the ball for an entire season. Cedeno did have a good start to last season, but then went back to his hacking at fastball's at his eyes (a la Corey Patterson) and didn't see much time after that. Plus add in the fact that every other GM knows he's out of options and you have a guy with little trade value.

As for Olson, yes he was young and left handed. But you know what else he was? Not a very good pitcher. And also a guy who wouldn't likely help the club in 2009. Last season was Olson's real first campaign and he had an ERA of over 6.50 and only whiffed 21 more batters than he walked (83 to 62). He also have up 168 in 132.2 innings. Young and lefty or old and righty. Doesn't matter...those aren't good stats. Peace out Olson.

As for Heilman, yes, he had a terrible 2008. Not quite Garrett Olson bad, but still pretty awful and I won't go into that here. What I will state that between 2005-2007 Heilman averaged a 3.27 ERA and a strikeout to walk ratio of 80 to 28. Many fans note that Heilman was misused in the Mets bullpen last year and if Heilman can be anything like he was from '05-'07, the Cubs have acquired a really strong pitcher. Regardless of where you stand on Heilman, the Cubs didn't give up much to take a chance on someone who could be very good. And hey, if he sucks, it will be just like having Cedeno and Olson anyway.

Dobber's Grade: A


Jan. 18 - Trade OF Felix Pie to Orioles for SP Garrett Olson and Minor-League RP Henry Williamson

In the long lines of over-hyped Cubs prospects, Jim Hendry officially turned the page on outfielder Felix Pie. Pie never lived up to his stature, because, well the guy just can't hit major league pitching. He is too undisciplined at the plate and doesn't work counts. That doesn't add up well. The guy does play solid defense, and maybe with more playing time, he'll figure out how to hit. Unfortunately for Pie, that time wasn't going to happen in Chicago.

As for Olson and Williamson, they are no real prizes. But hey, what can you get for a guy with no options left, who hasn't shown the ability to hit, and who every other GM in the league knows you're trying desperately to deal. The answer? Not much. Enter Garrett Olson and Henry Williamson.

Olson is a guy who looks like was rushed up to the major leagues by the Orioles. Hopefully this doesn't affect his confidence, as he hasn't put up great stats in the show. Olson has averaged 1.27 hits per inning pitched. His strikeout rate is about half of the number of hits he allows, which also isn't great. He doesn't have terrible command, walking 90 in 165 career innings, but it's not something to brag about. One thing to note, the Padres were interested in Olson a while back when they were shopping Khalil Greene. This has many Cubs fans salivating over a precursor that Olson will be dealt in a deal to finally land Jake Peavy. The Dobber is tired of hearing about possible Jake Peavy deals and therefore isn't going there. If and when a deal happens, I'll comment on it. Before then, Dobber's keeping his opinions to actual deals. Now, getting back to Olson, Hendry said himself that Olson would likely have been in AAA last year if with the Cubs. I tend to think he'll be there in 2009, unless he has a very solid spring training.

Not much to report on Williamson, although looking at his minor league stats, it appears he has some talent. Williamson has only pitched 29.0 total innings, but in those 29 innings, he's struck out 42, while surrendering 25 hits and issuing only 5 walks, all in relief. If Williamson's command stays strong, there is reason to believe he could make a big league bullpen someday.

When it all comes down to it, Pie had to go. Truth be told, Hendry should have traded Pie last season, when his stock was still relatively high. But since Hendry held onto Pie one season too many, he did what he could to get two guys who may make an impact with the Cubs, either on the field or via a future trade. Depending on if Pie makes the most of his opportunities in Baltimore, time will tell on this deal. But an immediate reaction looks like a good move for the Cubs.

Dobber's Grade: A-

Jan. 8 - Sign OF Milton Bradley
The Cubs made no secret they coveted Bradley and that he was their #1 offseason priority. There is no doubting Bradley's talent. The guy is a hell of a ball player. In the past two seasons, Bradley has hit over .310 and had an OBP over .410. The problem is, Mr. Game Board himself has played in over 120 games only twice in his nine year career, and last year when he played in the second most games of his career, he did so primarily as a DH. In addition, Bradley has a propensity to wear his emotion on his sleeve, which has made for some memorable altercations throughout his career. Since many Cub fans have varying opinions on the Bradley signing, I thought I'd take a look at the other options the Cubs had to fill their left handed hitting, middle of the order RF desires.

Raul Ibanez - Honestly, Ibanez was the Dobber's preference to Bradley. Ibanez is a model of consistency, playing in at least 150 games in each of the last few seasons while putting up a .291/.354/.492 stat line over the same time period. Add that to the fact that Ibanez plays a repsectible outfield, he would have been a fine addition to the Cubs, and at $31.5M over 3 years, would have commanded the same salary as Bradley. However Ibanez is 36 and the Phillies beat any possible suitors to the punch by locking up Ibanez on Dec. 16th.

Bobby Abreu - Abreu was another option to patrol the dead spot of grass once graced by Sammy Sosa. Abreu's stat line over the past three seasons at .294/.387/.462 and at 34 has a few years on Ibanez. Abreu, while not having the reputation to put his body on the line to make a play, isn't a terrible defender either. He doesn't have the ability as Bradley, but he certainly isn't as bad as say, Adam Dunn. The problem is that Abreu is seeking something similar to his $16M salary he earned last year and the Cubs would have had to trade someone like Harden to free up enough salary to meet those demands. I seriously doubt someone will be Abreu anywhere near $16M, but if he wasn't willing to move down much from that total, the Cubs just weren't the fit for him.

Adam Dunn - Many message boards noted a preference for Adam Dunn, most likely because Dunn kills it at Wrigley. You definitely know what you'll get with Dunn, as he's about as steady as they come. 150-160 games played, 40 HRs, roughly 100 RBI's, an OBP in the .380s, and a SLG in the .500-.540 range. However with these stats come a .240-250 batting average, an average of 177 K's a year, and defense that is just plain laughable at times. While Dunn's offensive output would have been a nice addition to the Cubs, his defense was the breaking point. The Cubs already have a suspect corner outfielder in Alfonso Soriano, and while both Reed Johnson and Kosuke Fukudome are excellent defenders, neither can cover that much ground.

Now back to the man the Cubs actually signed, Milton Bradley. As outlined above, you can't knock Bradley's athletic ability. Although after listening to Bradley's press conference today, it's apparent that Bradley doesn't like the media. That's fine when you're in Texas and Oakland, but when you just signed a $30M deal with the Chicago Cubs, you better get used to the media and fast. This could be an issue with Bradley, but until he blows up, I'll give him the benefit of the doubt.

However, what I won't turn a blind eye on is the fact that it's almost a certainty he will get injured and miss time in 2009. That along with the yearly DL stint or two for Alfonso Soriano, could lead to two very large holes in the Cubs lineup if both were out at the same time. Bottom line here is Bradley is a stud when on the field, but a regular visitor to the DL. Jim Hendry just rolled the dice with his new acquisition that Bradley will be healthy for an end of the season push and hopefully deep playoff run. If Bradley is healthy and puts up numbers in September and October, should the Cubs make it back to the postseason, no one will look back at this signing in angst. However if Bradley is shut down at the end of the season, Cubs fans will be crying out for Kerry Wood and Mark DeRosa. While I would have preferred the stability of Ibanez, once he was off the market, Bradley was the next best thing. With that in mind, I like Hendry's gutsy move by signing Milton Bradley and I think there's a good chance Hendry's gamble pays dividends.

Dobber's Grade: B+

Jan. 6 - Trade SP Jason Marquis to the Rockies for RP Luis Vizcaino
In a precursor to the Milton Bradley signing (more on this in a moment), the Cubs finalized the trade of Jason Marquis and his massive contract to the Rockies for Luis Vizcaino. Now, I'm not one to bash Marquis as much as other Cubs fans. In fact, I actually think Marquis is a very adequate #5 starter. The problem with Marquis is that his contract pays him roughly $9.7M and that is a ridiculous salary for an innings-eating #5 starter. And while I wouldn't say the Cubs have a plethora of SP to step in the #5 role, I think they can fill that spot with relatively the same type of productivity, whether that includes in house options like Sean Marshall, Jeff Samardzija, Kevin Hart, Angel Guzman, or the incredible long shot of Rich Hill. All deals prior to Marquis' trade were based on the Cubs dumping payroll. Marquis' salary is definitely the black hole that freed up cash to make the splash in the free agent OF market that the Cubs made no secret as a top priority this offseason.

Obviously Marquis had to go to clear payroll, but what about what the Cubs got in return in Luis Vizcaino? It seems that Vizcaino's best year are behind him, as his ERA has raised significantly over the course of the last three season's spent with the Diamondbacks, Yankees and Rockies. Over those past three seasons Vizcaino's hits per inning have also increased. 2008 also was an injury plagued year for Vizcaino as he appeared in only 43 games after averaging 70 appearances a year from 2002-2007. Fortunately for the Cubs, Vizcaino (if he indeed stays a Cub) won't likely be pressed into too many late inning situations. Vizcaino is no prize, but he is an upgrade in the Dobber's eyes over Bob Howry, the guy who used to fill Vizcaino's future roll.

Dobbers Grade: B+

Dec. 31 - Sign INF Aaron Miles
On the same day the Cubs said goodbye to DeRosa, the Cubs looked to replace Mr. Versatility in a lesser and more inexpensive version in Aaron Miles. In another cost cutting move by Hendry, the Cubs are thinking they can bascially get a similar player in Miles for $2.2M that they had in DeRosa for $5.5M.

In the past two seasons, Miles has played 2B, SS, 3B, LF, PF, P. Yes, that's correct, he did pitch 1 inning in 2008, but it's sort of like when Jose Canseco pitched an inning for the Rangers in 1993. Although unlike Canseco, Miles didn't miss the remainder of the season by blowing out his arm and needing Tommy John surgery.

2008 was a career year for Miles offensively with a .317 average, .355 OBP, .398 SLG, 4 HR, 31 RBI, 23 BB, 37 SO, 3 SB in 379 at bats. Defensively Miles posted a .9954 fielding percentage at 5 positions.

Looking at the stats, Miles is a slight upgrade defensively over DeRosa. However, he only played 6 games in the outfield for St. Louis last year, so his OF abilities are still somewhat of a mystery. Miles is a contact hitter, who had a very nice year last season, but that was the first time in Miles' career that he has hit over .300 for a full season. The true test for Miles is whether he is coming into his own as a contact hitter, or if last year was an abberation.

The Cubs depth chart already has Miles listed at the regular at 2B, although something tells me 2B will be mainly occupied by the other half of the Cajun Connection, Mike Fontenot. It's no secret Lou loves this guy, and with his .305 average, .395 OBP, and .514 SLG in 2008, what's not to like. The question, as with Miles, is whether the 2008 version or the 2007 version (that of .278 average, .336 OBP, .402 SLG) is the real Mike Fontenot. This should be an interesting competition to watch in Spring Training.

Bottom line is whoever repeats (or comes close to) their performance in 2008 is likely who'll command 2B for the Cubs next year. Let's just hope the $3.2M savings the Cubs received on swapping Miles for DeRosa goes to good use on a hitter who can fill the void of RBI's that went to Cleveland along with DeRosa's bat. When grading this transaction, one has to factor the hole that was created by the trade of DeRosa. With that in mind, while Miles is not the caliber of player of DeRosa, he is someone with the ability to play multiple positions was needed. Miles makes a decent filler of this void.

Dobbers Grade: B

Dec. 31 - Trade INF Mark DeRosa to Indians for Pitching Prospects Jeff Stevens, Chris Archer, and John Gaub
Obvioulsy this deal was a salary dump to help make a future acquisition. This Cub fan is also hoping this trade is a precurser to Hendry using some (or all) of the prospects acquired in this trade to make another move. Otherwise, I think the Cubs got hosed big time. Let's take a look at DeRosa's two years with the Cubs.

Mr. Versatility was also Mr. Consistency. Not only did DeRosa play 1B, 2B, SS, 3B, LF and RF, he did so while putting up solid numbers with roughly a .290 batting average, 80 RBIs, double digit HRs (10 in '07, 21 in '08) and .373 OBP. Plus DeRosa was the second most handsome Cub to don Cubbie Blue since Todd Walker. Seriously both of these guys could snatch daytime Emmys like its their second job. Add that to the fact DeRosa never once complained, always played hard, and was a fan favorite. You know what all that gets you sports fans? That's right, a plane ticket out of town!

Of the three prospects the Cubs received in return, all three look like future bullpen guys at best. Stevens has an outside chance to make it to the bigs this year, but I would honestly be surprised to see Stevens with any club until the Sept. call ups. Gaub had a ridiculous strikeout ratio last year between rookie ball and single A (100 K's in 64.0 innings pitched), but along with Archer, is likely at least 1-2 yrs away.

Without using these newly acquired prospects in another deal, it's hard to imagine the Cubs better off next season, or in 2010, by making this transaction. With the perpetual window of opportunity for the Cubs only going to stay open for a few years, I can't see how any of these three prospects make an impact in a Cubs uniform during this time.

Dobbers Grade: D

Dec. 16 - Sign OF Joey Gathright
When first reading about the Cubs signing speedster CF Joey Gathright to a one-year $800K contact, I thought, eh, I guess he can't hurt. Then I remembered the Cubs have pretty much the same exact player under contract for roughly $400K less in CF Felix Pie.

Now, I will point out that I am not a huge fan a Felix Pie. I think he has been hyped way to much as the next great Cubs prospect. I seem to remember a few other next great Cubs prospects that were sure to grace Wrigely Field for years and years. Bobby Hill. Hee Seop Choi. Corey Patterson. You know what these three have in common? They were all busts for the Cubs. And you know who is in danger of joining that list? Felix Pie.

Look, the guy does have some talent. He plays great defense and does have speed, although he doesn't seem to use that to swipe bags. Plus he can hit...just not major league pitching. But boy put him in AAA and he'll hit the leather off the ball.

So all these knocks against Pie should be positives for Gathright, right? Wrong. The problem is Gathright plays decent defense (not as good as Pie), but just like Pie, he can't hit. Gathright's entire hitting approach is to slap at balls and lay down bunts. Bunting has its time and place, but I for one think that even Pie is capable of laying down a bunt when its called for. I will give Gathright credit in the stolen base department, as he did swipe 21 bags in 105 games last season. But with a career OBP of .328, it's hard to steal bases when your ass is on the bench.

Unless Pie is dealt this offseason, I just don't understand why you pay an extra $800K for a guy you already have on the roster. But as I write this, both guys are on the roster, so that's what I'm using to grade this transaction.

NOTE: Since Felix Pie was traded Jan. 18 to the Orioles, a new grade has been updated. I'm still not a huge fan of Gathright, but he makes a little more sense now that Pie is out of the way. The problem I see is that the Cubs bench has a number guys who bat from the left side of the plate, but just don't hit much from the left side of the plate. Plus, the Cubs still have a late inning defensive replacement with speed in Reed Johnson, so I still don't quite get what Gathright brings to the table. I would have preferred a signing a bench player with a better OBP and that has the ability to take the ball deep. Currently the only bench player who fits that bill is Micah Hoffpauir, who I'm all for giving a shot, but we just don't know if he'll be that guy or not.

Dobber's Grade: D

Nov. 30 - Do not offer arbitration to CL Kerry Wood
This was obviously coming after the acquisition of Gregg, but still stung a lot of Cubs fans. Woody was the quintessential Cubbie over his 10 years at the Friendly Confines. Wood became a symbol for all Cubs fans on May 6, 1998 when he struck out 20 Astros at Wrigley Field in a one-hitter that really should have been scored a no-hitter with an error.

Now depending on who you believe, there were two sides this story. Hendry and the Cubs stated that they just couldn't commit to the years and dollars Wood wanted. Wood's camp stated that Woody would have be open to coming back for another year if offered arbitration.

Bottom line is that while Nov. 30th was a sad day in Cubs history, all good things must come to an end. Baseball is a business and the Cubs need to cut payroll to get the left handed hitting outfielder they've been salivating for since "The Playoff Embarassment: Part Deux" came to a close in Los Angeles.

The Dobber doesn't have to like it, but the Dobber does have to accept it.

Dobbers Grade: C

Nov. 13 - Trade RP prospect Jose Ceda to Marlins for RP Kevin Gregg
The Cubs traded Jose Ceda, a young fireballer prospect who 1) has drawn Lee Smith comparisons, 2) was deemed untouchable in last year's Brian Roberts trade rumor fiasco, and 3) was under contract for 6 more years for...one year of Kevin Gregg?

I tend to not look at win-loss records and ERA for relievers...they're too easily inflated. Rather I tend to look at a few stats that are more indicative of the pitchers consistency. Here's the breakdown on Gregg's season averages over his career in The Show (excluding a late Sept. call up in 2003).

Gregg - 77.0 IP, 71.6 H, 3.6 HR, 31 BB, 70.4 SO, 30.5 SV 37 SVO. Gregg is arbitration eligible and will likely have a 2009 salary in the $5.5-6.0MM range.

At first glance, respectable stats, but do they hold up against the back of the bullpen arms Cubs fans coveted last season?

Marmol - 77.9 IP, 50.6 H, 9.0 HR, 45 BB, 89.6 SO, 8 SV, 11 SVO. Marmol is currently under team control as he has yet to log enough big league experience and had will have a ridiculously low salary in the $450-550K range for next season. That is unless the Cubs lock up Marmol long term, which I tend to think might happen, providing Hendry still has money left before opening day.

Wood - 66.1 IP, 54.0 H, 3.0 HR, 18 BB, 84.0 SO, 34 SV, 40 SVO. It should be noted that I am only using Wood's stats as a reliever from 2008. I tried to think of a way to integrate his stats from 2007 in which he only appeared at the end of the year, but I had to face the facts that I'm just not that good at math. So deal with it. And with Wood's new Indians contract (more on that in a moment), Woody's 2009 salary is $10MM.

At first glance I wanted to bash this trade, but when looking at the cost savings between Gregg and Wood, I can understand it. Obviously Wood is the superior pitcher, but Gregg is no slouch and should do just fine for the Cubs. The real issue is that the Cubs traded away a guy who could be dominant in 2-3 years for someone who is big league ready. I'm not necessarily of fan of this thinking, but obviously the Cubs have a win-now mentality as the window to win with the core of this team is likely only 2-3 more years anyway.

While Gregg should be okay in the Cubs pen in 2009, the real truth to this deal will come through in 2010-2011 when Ceda strikes out the side at Wrigely...in a Marlins uniform.

Dobber's Grade: C-