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Tuesday, July 31, 2012
A's Shut Out 8-0 By Rays
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It was a record-setting July for the Oakland A's, but it ended on a sour note.
The Tampa Bay Rays shut them out 8-0 on a brilliant pitching performance by James Shield, who went the distance and allowed just three hits.
Throughout a 162 game season, a team will have occasional bad days, and this was one of them.
The runs piled up like raindrops against Tommy Milone, who allowed five runs in six innings. Evan Scribner would give up the other three runs.
The Rays scored their eight runs without the use of a home run. They racked 11 hits off of A's pitching, and seemingly had runners on base every single inning of the game.
Even with the loss, the A's still hold the second wild card spot in the AL, and are 3.5 games back of the Texas Rangers for the division lead.
Lincecum Goes Seven Strong, as Giants Snap Their Five Game Losing Streak
Tim Lincecum pitched seven innings while striking out seven batters, leading the Giants to a 4-1 victory over the New York Mets. More importantly, he helped snap the their season-high, five game losing streak
His night didn’t start too well, though, as the scorching hot Scott Hairston singled and he would be driven home on a Justin Turner double off the facing of the wall in left field.
Lincecum would allow just two hits over the next three innings, and his offense scratched out a couple runs for him, thanks to a few hiccups by the reeling Mets.
After loading the bases on a Buster Posey single, Marco Scutaro double, and a Brandon Belt walk, Justin Christian hit a dribbler back to the mound where Matt Harvey fielded it, and underhanded it to the catcher to get the force out.
One down, no runs, yet.
But if it weren’t for a throwing error by shortstop Ruban Tejada, Harvey would’ve gotten out of the second inning unscathed, but that wasn’t the case, as Tejada’s throw sailed over the first baseman Ike Davis’s head allowing Scutaro to trot across the plate with ease.
Brandon Belt also steamed around third to score from second base. The Giants were up 2-1 at that point, and Lincecum settled in nicely.
He breezed his through a David Wright-less lineup. Although, he did strikeout the Mets’ third baseman looking a sharp curveball to end a bases loaded threat in the seventh.
That key punch out came after he loaded the bases on a walk and two singles. He induced a screaming line drive to Ryan Theriot with one out.
David Wright was 3-19 off Lincecum coming into his pinch hit at-bat with 11 strikeouts, and Lincecum would notch that total to 3-20 with 12 strikeouts after he struck him out to end the seventh inning.Marco Scutaro lined an RBI single to score Ryan Theriot in the eighth inning, and Jermey Affeldt shut the door in the ninth, after relieving Lincecum in the eighth.
What’s on Tap:
The Giants will continue their series against the Mets on Wednesday night. Matt Cain will oppose the Mets’ southpaw Jon Niese. And Hunter Pence is set to make his Giants debut after arriving after the game on Tuesday.
Oakland Raiders: Training Camp News and Notes (7/31)
All systems are a go at Raiders camp. Here are a couple quick notes on some of the buzz going around camp:
- Some key injuries are giving some younger players an opportunity to show the coaching staff what they can do. Linebacker Aaron Curry is the PUP list and fourth-round rookie Miles Burris is filling his spot getting reps with the first-team defense. Also, cornerback Ron Bartell has a hamstring injury and Demarcus Van Dyke is filling in at that position. Head Coach Dennis Allen likes what he sees so far with both players filling in so this is only positive for the Raiders moving forward.
- Running back Darren McFadden looks healthy and is running well. The fact that he is running with speed and cut ability should bring some comfort to a team that is going to rely on him greatly this season.
- Head Coach Dennis Allen is putting an onus on his team about discipline. Oakland set an NFL record for most penalties with 163 last season and Allen is taking the necessary steps to make sure that mark does not get repeated. Hopefully there is noticeable improvement in that department on and off the field.
Check back with sport-icon.blogspot.com for more Raiders buzz.
Nate Robinson Signs With Bulls
Robinson averaged 11.2 points in 51 games last season, but the Warriors never showed interest in bringing him back.
Analysis of the Hunter Pence Trade to the Giants
The Trade:
Giants: Hunter Pence and cash
Phillies: Tommy Joseph, Nate Schierholtz and Single-A RHP Seth Rosin
Quick Analysis:
The Giants were looking for an outfield bat to complement baseball’s hits leader Melky Cabrera, and they accomplished that in acquiring Hunter Pence from the Phillies. Pence hit 17 home runs with the Phillies. That mark would lead the Giants by a modest margin, and he has found success at AT&T Park as well, hitting five home runs in 76 career at-bats at AT&T Park.
Tommy Joseph will likely replace Carlos Ruiz after the 2013 season, who will be pushing 40 at that point. Scouts says that he is a very good acquisition for the Phillies because good young catching is hard to come by these days. Other scouts agree, saying that he will be an everyday player in the near future.
Seth Rosin is not a top prospect, but shouldn’t be overlooked.
What it Means for the Giants:
It looks like GM Brian Sabean might’ve pulled off a great deal for Pence. Joseph is a couple years away, and Nate Schierholtz wanted out of San Francisco in hopes to take on an everyday type role. Pence will be a massive upgrade over Gregor Blanco in right field, and will be give the Giants an additional bat outside of Melky Cabrera and Buster Posey, who have been heavily relied on this season.
While good young catchers are hard to come by, the Giants also have Hector Sanchez and Andrew Susac in the organization. And don’t forget about Buster Posey.
Quick Facts:
-At AT&T Park, Pence has hit .329 (25x76) w/ 3 2Bs, 5 HRs & 10 RBI in 20 games. He has posted a .366 OBP and .566 SLG as well
-Pence has five homers in 76 career at-bats at AT&T Park. The Giants have 16 homers in 1,711 home at-bats this season.
Analyzing Warriors' New Core
The Warriors are so stacked, for lack of a better word.
After signing Carl Landry, Brandon Rush soon followed. Those two players, very capable of being starters, are backing up two better players in this Warrior core.
Fans, what are we to expect this season? Playoffs. It's as simple as that. I've been saying this every year, but now I know the Warriors actually have a legitimate shot to make a deep playoff run. Inexperience, however will hinder them a great bit.
All the starters and their backups are capable of averaging double digits. Although that is highly unlikely, I believe the Warriors will have 7 played consistently hitting double digits.
Those guys will be all the starters, Jarrett Jack, and Brandon Rush.
Occasionally, Richard Jefferson will have a hot shooting night. As will Draymond Green, hopefully. Right now, teams should be fearing the Warriors. It's not easy to beat a team that has so much depth which is almost all fresh legs. A good game this year should be the Warriors against the Timberwolves.
There are at least 5 guys on the Warriors that want to be scorers. That could be bad, but I think all these guys know when to stop shooting.
Will the Dubs make the playoffs? Comment below.
After signing Carl Landry, Brandon Rush soon followed. Those two players, very capable of being starters, are backing up two better players in this Warrior core.
Fans, what are we to expect this season? Playoffs. It's as simple as that. I've been saying this every year, but now I know the Warriors actually have a legitimate shot to make a deep playoff run. Inexperience, however will hinder them a great bit.
All the starters and their backups are capable of averaging double digits. Although that is highly unlikely, I believe the Warriors will have 7 played consistently hitting double digits.
Those guys will be all the starters, Jarrett Jack, and Brandon Rush.
Occasionally, Richard Jefferson will have a hot shooting night. As will Draymond Green, hopefully. Right now, teams should be fearing the Warriors. It's not easy to beat a team that has so much depth which is almost all fresh legs. A good game this year should be the Warriors against the Timberwolves.
There are at least 5 guys on the Warriors that want to be scorers. That could be bad, but I think all these guys know when to stop shooting.
Will the Dubs make the playoffs? Comment below.
Reports: Giants Acquire Hunter Pence
According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, the Giants have acquired Hunter Pence from the Phillies.
hunter pence on way to#SFGiants. details up soon on CBSSports.com
— Jon Heyman (@JonHeymanCBS) July 31, 2012
According to Jim Bowden, Gary Brown, Brandon Belt, and Kyle Krick are NOT involved in the deal
UPDATE:
Tommy Joseph is included in the deal going to the Phillies for Hunter Pence...the rest of the trade to follow
— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) July 31, 2012
More Updates:
Giants ownership stretching budget to make Pence acquisition work....new ownership with Dodgers being felt hard in SF and they are adjusting
— JIM BOWDEN (@JimBowdenESPNxm) July 31, 2012
Nate Schierholtz could be headed Phillies' way in Pence deal. Phillies need outfielders, and he said recently he wanted change of scenery.
— Todd Zolecki (@ToddZolecki) July 31, 2012
Pence has five homers in 76 career at-bats at AT&T Park. The Giants have 16 homers in 1,711 home at-bats this season.
— Alex Pavlovic (@AlexPavlovic) July 31, 2012
Reports say Giants get Pence. Giants say deal not done:blog.sfgate.com/giants/2012/07…
— Henry Schulman (@hankschulman) July 31, 2012
Also being told that#SF Giants deal for Pence is "not done'' and some issues need to be completed beyond physicals.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 31, 2012
Hunter Pence trade hasn’t been announced yet, but put it this way: Teams that want outfield bats have moved on and are shopping elsewhere.
— Jon Morosi (@jonmorosi) July 31, 2012
But#Phillies and#SFGiants are working through things, source says. Momentum still points to a trade by the deadline.
— Jerry Crasnick (@jcrasnick) July 31, 2012
Giants still trying to add a reliever before the deadline.
— DKnobler (@DKnobler) July 31, 2012
Source says Pence deal will be made official shortly.
— Alex Pavlovic (@AlexPavlovic) July 31, 2012
Hunter Pence is still with the#Phillies in Washington, DC. Declined comment when asked about trade.#SFGiants
— Chronicle Live(@ChronLiveCSN) July 31, 2012
Nate has been told he's going to Philadelphia.
— Henry Schulman (@hankschulman) July 31, 2012
The deal is Joseph, Schierholtz and Single-A RHP Seth Rosin for Pence. To be announced shortly.
— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) July 31, 2012
OFFICIAL:#SFGiants have acquired Hunter Pence from#Phillies for Nate Schierholtz, Tommy Joseph & Seth Rosen.
— Steve Berthiaume (@SBerthiaumeESPN) July 31, 2012
Brandon Rush Re-Signs with Warriors
Brandon Rush's agent says that Rush has re-signed with the Golden State Warriors. The deal is reportedly worth $8 million over two years, which is similar to Carl Landry's contract.
Brandon Rush has reached agreement on a two-year, $8 million deal to stay with Golden State, agent Mark Bartelstein says.Rush averaged 9.8 PPG coming off the bench for the Warriors last season, He shot 45% from three-point range.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 31, 2012
Dodgers Acquire Shane Victorino
The Dodgers are dealing, and they're looking to improve every facet of their team today.
Phillies have traded Victorino to Dodgers for Lindblom and Ethan martin
— Tim Brown (@TBrownYahoo) July 31, 2012
After acquiring Brandon League last night, they acquire Shane Victorino to address their leadoff woes. Although the Giants were not looking at him, are the Phillies willing to trade any other of their outfielders?
Why Wide Receiver Ty Montgomery is Key to Cardinal Success in 2012
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| Ty Montgomery |
David Shaw will have his fair share new offensive starters to work with in 2012. The Cardinal have lost quarterback Andrew Luck, who many considered to be the best NFL prospect in a decade, two first-team all-conference linemen in Jonathan Martin and David DeCastro and freakishly athletic tight end Coby Fleener.
With these superstars now on NFL rosters, the Stanford offense may see some early struggles in 2012. What many fail to realize, however, is that the loss of electric wide receiver Chris Owusu is potentially just as big a blow.
Owusu showed his blistering 4.36 speed in the NFL combine earlier this year. Unfortunately, he was unable to demonstrate that elite speed in several games last season due to injury. Owusu was on the receiving end of sickening hits against both USC and Washington State, forcing him to spend much of his time on the sideline with concussions.
Any offensive struggles for Stanford last season can be attributed to the absence of their significant vertical threat. With Owusu in the lineup, defenses had to respect his speed, and they tended to play a bit more conservatively. Without Owusu's speed to worry about, opposing teams were able stack the box against the run and call more aggressive blitzes. Luck's next favorite target on the outside, Griff Whalen, had much less threatening 4.6 speed. While the Cardinal certainly had three excellent tight ends, none were quite the electrifying deep threat that Owusu was.
The Stanford offensive line only allowed 11 sacks in 2011, which is less than one per game. However, seven of those 11 sacks came in the three games in which Owusu never saw the field. Oregon sacked Luck three times while Cal and Oklahoma State each sacked him twice. None of these teams had to game-plan against Owusu. This reflects the ability of defenses to become more aggressive when they have no vertical threat over the top to worry about.
While the loss of Owusu certainly hurts the Cardinal, I believe David Shaw has the right man to replace him. Ty Montgomery joined the Cardinal last season as a 4-star recruit from Dallas, Texas. He impressed as a true freshman, hauling in 24 passes for 350 yards and two touchdowns. Montgomery also averaged 25 yards per kick return as the Cardinal's leading return man.
At 6'2" and 205 pounds, he possesses great size for a receiver. In addition, he also has great 4.4 speed. While that is not quite as fast as Owusu, it should be good enough to create more anxiety for defenses and force them to be a bit more conservative in their coverage schemes.
If Montgomery improves on his 2011 season, he should become one of the better receivers in the Pac-12. His threatening speed and talent on the outside should take some of the pressure off of his new quarterback, as well as Stepfan Taylor and the running game. However, if he does not perform as a true No. 1 receiver and significant vertical threat, Stanford may have a tough time moving the ball in 2012.
I don't have a problem imagining Montgomery emerging as Stanford's leading receiver for a few years to come. Look for him to have a big season as the Cardinal break in an offense full of fresh faces.
Daily Recap-7/30
Headlines
- A's Walk-Off Again in Fifteen Innings
- Giants Drop Fifth Straight in Crazy Game
- Warriors Sign Landry, Green, Close to Agreement with Rush
- Rangers Want to Trade for Joe Thornton?
A Good Read
- Giants Postgame Notes
- How Scutaro Will Help the Giants
- Warriors Have a Playoff Roster
- Will Josh Howard be a Good Fit?
A's Pull Out Another Walk-Off in 15 Inning Marathon
As I am writing this, it is already Tuesday morning in Oakland and mid-morning in Tampa Bay.
You can thank the A's and Rays for providing five hours of entertainment for all of us, a 15-inning affair that never seemed to end.
The A's scored the game's first two runs on RBI doubles by Chris Carter and Kurt Suzuki off Rays' starter David Price, and led 2-0 after two innings. But that didn't foreshadow what was to come.
Carlos Pena tied the game with a two-run double in the fourth, and the Rats would take a 3-2 lead on a home run by Matt Joyce in the sixth.
Price seemed dominant throughout, but the A's would capitalize on his mistakes. Brandon Hicks drove a fastball into the right center field bleachers in the seventh to tie the game at three.
Note that previous sentence, because it would be the last run scored by either team until the fifteenth inning.
In between, there was a lot of frustration, especially from the A's standpoint. Twice they had the based loaded in extra innings, but failed to score. They also set a dubious Oakland record with 20 strikeouts by hitters.
But their excellent bullpen kept the Rays offense at bay, setting the stage for another walk off.
Tampa sent their last reliever, Kyle Farnsworth, into the game in the fifteenth. The A's made sure that they wouldn't have to use a position player.
Brandon Inge singled to lead off the inning, and Kurt Suzuki advanced him to second with a bunt. Brandon Moss and Erik Sogard both walked, setting up a based loaded and one out situation for Jemile Weeks.
Weeks promptly delivered a sac fly to right field, scoring Inge and sending home a very tired and happy home crowd with their league-leading twelfth walk-off win.
Giants Post-Game Notes
-According to multiple reports, Angel Pagan injured his hand while striking something in the dugout after an at-bat. He's day to day.
- Nate Schierholtz has requested a trade according to Fox Sports Jon Morosi
- Giants continue to talk to Hunter Pence, but not Shane Victorino
- The Dodgers traded for Brandon League
- Trade Deadline is TOMORROW
- Nate Schierholtz has requested a trade according to Fox Sports Jon Morosi
- Giants continue to talk to Hunter Pence, but not Shane Victorino
- The Dodgers traded for Brandon League
- Trade Deadline is TOMORROW
Monday, July 30, 2012
Giants Lose a Wild One, 8-7 in 10 Innings
Led by Scott Hariston, who hit two key home runs, the Mets won a thriller against the Giants in ten innings, 8-7.
Madison Bumgarner threw far too many pitches to to go deep into the game, as he pitched just six innings, but did strikeout six Mets hitters.
Marco Scutaro broke the Giants 22 inning without a run in the third inning, but Ronny Cedeno followed with a two out, two RBI double in the fourth inning to give the Mets a 2-1 lead.
Let's fast forward, however. Sergio Romo gave up a two-run homer on Friday night, and he gave up a two-run homer again on Monday night to Giant killer, Scott Hairston which tied the game. The Mets would tack on two more runs to take the lead in the eighth on a Justin Turner double and a Rob Johnson infield single that kicked off Marco Scutaro's glove and slowly rolled into centerfield.
The drama was just starting, though. Buster Posey smacked an RBI double into the left field gap, scoring Melky Cabrera with no outs.
With the infield in, Ike Davis took his eye off a slow grounder to first, and the ball dribbled into right field and the game was tied.
With the bases loaded, Scutaro struck out looking on a full count to strand the runners.
Scott Hairston crushed his second home run in the game in the tenth off Santiago Casillia, and the Mets would tack on another run as Clay Hensley appeared to be unaware of the situation.
The Giants would make it interesting in the bottom of the inning, on a Nate Schierholtz RBI single. Brandon Belt gave the ball a charge deep into centerfield, but it would be caught at the wall, ending the game.
Warriors' Have a Playoff Roster
Many polls and reports indicate that most Warrior fans believe that the Warriors have a solid playoff roster. While this may be true, it's also what us Warrior fans have believe the past 3 years. What happened then? Exactly.From the 2008-2012 playoffs, I've been saying the Warriors will get it right next season. That was all mindless thinking. Now, I believe the Warriors actually do have a legitimate shot to make a deep post-season run. I'm backed up with stats. Many other writers and analyzers have also predicted that the Warriors will finally make the playoffs again.
Let's look at the main fact:
- The Dubs have 5 solid starters. These starters (Curry, Thompson, Bogut, Lee, Barnes) are already one of the stronger lineups in the NBA. Now think about their bench players. Jack, Rush/Bazemore, Jefferson/Green, Landry, and Ezeli could form their own starting lineup. Other teams going to be tired and switching to their second core. The Warriors may do the same, but their second core is good enough to extend the lead, or possibly make up the difference.
The X Factor:
- Marc Jackson has to get it right this season. The Warriors have added more presence on the offensive end, and the defensive end. They have size, speed, and length. If they fail to win this season, Jackson will likely be fired. He has to coach the Warriors to a winning record. What good is a team if they don't have a good coach?
Report: Landry Signs with Warriors
Recent reports indicate that the Warriors have bagged and signed Carl Landry to add more depth to their roster. The deal is worth $8 million over two years,
Landry will be a great addition to the Warriors.
He performs great plays at the best times. He plays clutch defense, and can get the crowd energized. He has a couple of weak points, like free throws, but it's not a huge gap. Now David Lee will be able to get a long rest because Landry is more than capable of playing for long stints of time.
Landry was quite dramatic with his decision, like Dwight Howard, but the Warriors have filled in the missing piece and signed a much needed backup. Brandon Rush is likely to follow him soon.
The Warriors should be a lock for the playoffs this year.
How Marco Scutaro Will Help the Giants Offense
Question Brian Sabean’s acquisition of Marco Scutaro all you want, but he’s a solid addition. But by no means is he the piece that will take the Giants to the next level, nor will he bring them down a level. However, he brings something to the table that the Giants don’t do consistently. The ability to put the ball in play.
Scutaro’s contribution is that simple. He’s not a free swinger, neither does he wait around like Brandon Belt to. Sure, he’s everything but a power hitter, but he does the the little things like moving the runner over or hitting a sacrifice fly to get a run in. There have been numerous events where the Giants have failed to do the things that Scutaro will provide. And it’s starting to become clearer and clearer with each loss.
O-Swing% is technical for the percentage a hitter swings at pitches outside of the strike zone. So you would instantly assume that Pablo Sandoval must have a high O-Swing% right? You would be spot on, as Sandoval swings at pitches outside of the strike zone nearly 50% of the time and Hector Sanchez, Joaquin Arias and Brandon Crawford are the next few victims of the wild swing reputation. Meanwhile, Scutaro’s 24.5 O-Swing% ranks first on the Giants. While It might not seem like a big deal, it is, especially in situations where the Giants need to get a runner over.
The reason why he constantly puts the ball in play is because he doesn’t try to do too much at the plate. His approach is simple and you would hope that Pablo Sandoval and Hector Sanchez would take a page out of his book, as they are practically swinging for the cove in each of their at-bats.
Looking at Scutaro’s home run totals, don’t expect him to provide the much needed pop that the Giants are in search of, as he’s never hit more than 12 home runs in a season. He did, however, crush a home run off Santiago Casilla that broke a tie game earlier in the season.
Ryan Theriot and Scutaro are essentially identical twins when it comes to hitting. While Scutaro may possess a bit more power, they both are contact hitters (Theriot 89% contact percentage, Scutaro 93%), and both have been career table setters.
So how should Bruce Bochy rearrange his lineup?
The smart move would be to have both of them hitting before Melky Cabrera and Buster Posey to create more RBI opportunities for the heart of the lineup. Bochy could also spilt them up, having one at the top and one at the bottom to create a more balanced lineup. The latter appears to be the path Bochy will stick with, although, as I write this it appears that Scutaro is leading off tonight with Theriot sticking in the two hole.
A's Option Norris to Triple A to Make Room for Kottaras
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The A's have optioned catcher Derek Norris to Triple A Sacramento in order to make room for George Kottaras, who they acquired in a trade from the Milwaukee Brewers.
In 21 games, Norris hit .205 with 3 home runs with the A's.
Warriors On Verge of Signing Rush, Landry
According to the agent for Brandon Rush and Carl Landry, the Golden State Warriors are close to coming to terms with both of those players.
Rush is a restricted free agent, but has yet to receive an offer from another team. The Warriors have made it clear that they will match any offer for Rush, and that may have scared teams off.
Landry and the Warriors have expressed mutual interest, so this should not come as a surprise. He averaged 14.5 PPG with the New Orleans Hornets last season, and is an unrestricted free agent.
Matt Steimetz reports that both deals could be done by the end of the day. We'll keep you posted.
Warriors Sign Draymond Green to Contract
Adrian Wojnarowski is reporting that the Golden State Warriors have agreed to terms with Draymond Green, the 35th overall pick in the 2012 NBA Draft.
Golden State has reached agreement on a 3-year, $2.6M deal with Draymond Green, league source tells Y!Green was 35th pick in June draft.Green spent four years at Michigan State, averaging 16.2 PPG and 10.6 RPG during his senior year.
— Adrian Wojnarowski (@WojYahooNBA) July 30, 2012
More Warriors' News: Warriors on the Verge of Signing Rush, Landry
Rangers Interested in Trading for Joe Thornton?
Kevin Paul Dupont of the Boston Globe is reporting that the New York Rangers will make a "real play" for San Jose Sharks' captain Joe Thornton.
Here's more of what he had to say:
Nash and Thornton were magic together in Davos, Switzerland, during the last lockout, and have paired like hand and glove in the Olympics for Team Canada. Thornton would have to allow the Sharks to make the deal, but it’s probably a good time for him to go. He has played 1,077 games — 545 with the Sharks, 532 with the Bruins. Still without a CupOf course, all this is pure speculation, and I seriously doubt that the Sharks would be willing to part with Joe Thornton for anything.
Trade Deadline: Are the Giants Still Looking at Hunter Pence
According to Jon Heyman of CBS Sports, the Giants are still trying to acquire Pence even after false reports on Sunday night.
The one problem that stands in the Giants' way is the money factor. The ownership has not given them the OK to raise the payroll up to deal for Pence. If/When GM Brian Sabean gets the nod, then a trade for the Phillies' outfielder might seem more realistic.
Could Josh Howard be a Good Fit?
The Warriors haven't expressed much interest in Josh Howard, who is currently available. Chances are the Warriors won't sign him. He could actually be a good fit in Golden State, as he's a solid, consistent guy, and he's washed up as well.
When Howard was at his prime, he averaged 18 PPG. He was like Richard Jefferson. Then the age affect took place, and he migrated from team to team, never getting his groove back. There's a few players on the Warriors like that. Howard would be able to give David Lee a rest.
He's not the most ideal option right now, but he's still a player to look into. Although people don't see him as much, he could add that extra push the Warriors need every game by coming off the bench and scoring about 8-10 points.
Howard says that he's looking to put injury behind him and start again. He will likely chose the nets, but if the Warriors don't get Rush to re-sign, then he would be a good option. I can't imaging him asking for much.
Oakland Raiders: Training Camp Quick Hits
The Oakland Raiders opened training camp for the 2012 NFL season on Sunday, in Napa, California. There are some key elements to follow as camp progresses closer to the season opener against the San Diego Chargers on September 10.
The first thing to keep in mind is that this is the first training camp for new general manager Reggie McKenzie and first-year head coach Dennis Allen. It is already evident how McKenzie is going to run an organization. Now what remains to be seen is how Allen handles his duties now that the dawn of the season is here.
Allen's job is pretty cut and dry: improve this team and get them to the playoffs. That will be easier said than done with both the offensive and defensive units ranked 29th overall in 2011. Do not be surprised if Allen decides to "trim the fat" and make some surprising moves along the way, but he has this team headed in the right direction.
Now we will take a quick look at the positional units on the team and go over some quick keys to keep in mind for the opening of camp.
- Quarterback: Keep watch on how starting quarterback Carson Palmer adjusts to the new offensive system run by coordinator Greg Knapp. His West Coast scheme calls for a lot of quarterback movement with play-action and bootlegs. Mobility is key and Palmer lacks that. Also note that this is Terrelle Pryor's first full length training camp. His progression will determine what kind of future he has with the team.
- Running back: There is a lot of buzz going around on who exactly will back-up Darren McFadden. Will the team sign either Cedric Benson or Ryan Grant? Is Mike Goodson capable of holding on to the football? Is Taiwan Jones ready to step into a larger role? That development will be key for this team. The signing of fullback Owen Schmitt will be a key contributor to the backfield as well.
- Wide Receiver: Trading Louis Murphy made two statements. The door is open for rookies Juron Criner and Rod Streater to contribute this season. Both did well in OTA's and now will hope to continue the trend in camp. The other is that if you are not on board with what is going on with this team, you are out.
- Tight End: The progression of David Ausberry is key. He is the most talented one of the bunch and if he can show he can block, he'll be a key weapon for Greg Knapp's tight-end friendly system.
- Offensive Line: The one thing this unit has to do is cut down on the penalties. Allen seems like he is going to run a tight ship and will not tolerate sloppiness. Stefen Wisniewski should transition nicely over center. Watch how they handle the zone-blocking scheme.
- Defensive Line: This unit is one of the strong points on this team. They have potential to cause a lot of havoc in opposing backfields. Look for Tommy Kelly and Richard Seymour to be very motivated this season. Getting a healthy Matt Shaughnessy back is huge and look for him to take the next step and be an anchor on this line.
- Linebacker: This unit will be interesting to watch. Rolando McClain's off-field troubles are well documented. If he is lost due to suspension or jail, who fills in for him? Miles Burris may end up being one of the steals of the 2012 NFL Draft. He has already impressed and hopefully that continues on into camp.
- Cornerback: The big issue here is depth. Will the Raiders try and address it anymore than they already have? Doubt it. But they will most likely have to make due with who they got.
- Safety: Tyvon Branch is locked-up to a new deal and that is good news to a secondary that relies on his play so much. This may be Mike Mitchell's last camp with the Raiders if he does not show them something this season.
- Special Teams: This unit is the best in the league in terms of who they have placekicking and punting. There is nothing new to report or look into here. The return may be key. There are a lot of capable candidates, but the coaching staff is waiting for someone to step up and and grab that role.
Sunday, July 29, 2012
Daily Recap - 7/29
We'll keep you up-to-date on the Hunter Pence trade rumor, but until then, good night!
Headlines
- Giants Swept by Dodgers, Now Tied for NL West Lead
- A's Fail to Complete Sweep in Baltimore
- Hunter Pence Trade Rumors
- Warriors Have "Minimal" Interest in Josh Howard
A Good Read
- Giants' Struggles with RISP
- Golden State Warriors' Offseason Homework: Klay Thompson
- Predicting Warriors' Stats Leaders
- Warriors' Need for Backup PF Grows
No Deal for Pence, League
Henry Schulman has confirmed that there is indeed no deal for Hunter Pence or Brandon League to the Giants:
I'm told as well there's no deal for Pence. Also no deal for League. But I will say this: O'Donnell is a good reporter who's broken Gs news.Well, at least it was a nice adrenaline rush.
— Henry Schulman (@hankschulman) July 30, 2012
Warriors' Updated Offseason Coverage
The Warriors are now on the verge of re-signing Brandon Rush, AND getting Carl Landry. That's the extra special super cherry, on top of the regular cherry, on top of the Ice Cream Sunday.
In my opinion, signing both these players will really help the Warriors. Landry isn't exactly ideal, but the Warriors could use his basketball OQ and his tough mentality.
As for Rush, the Warriors need him. They got him for a steal. He suddenly broke out and became one of the better bench players in the NBA. Rush and Landry obviously add more depth to the Warriors' lineup.
Provided that they sign them... Its not official yet. Although a deal is very close.
The Warriors should be able to bad Landry and Rush. If they can, they're looking to possible build a dynasty for years to come.
If the Warriors sign both these players, I give them an A- for off season production.
In my opinion, signing both these players will really help the Warriors. Landry isn't exactly ideal, but the Warriors could use his basketball OQ and his tough mentality.
As for Rush, the Warriors need him. They got him for a steal. He suddenly broke out and became one of the better bench players in the NBA. Rush and Landry obviously add more depth to the Warriors' lineup.
Provided that they sign them... Its not official yet. Although a deal is very close.
The Warriors should be able to bad Landry and Rush. If they can, they're looking to possible build a dynasty for years to come.
If the Warriors sign both these players, I give them an A- for off season production.
Hunter Pence Trade Shot Down?
According to Andrew Baggarly on Twitter, Giants VP Bobby Evans texted him saying that there is "no truth to the rumor."
Giants VP Bobby Evans texts that there's "no truth to the rumor" the Giants have a deal in place for Pence.
— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) July 30, 2012
It was fun while it lasted, but don't rule out the possibility of a deal with the Phillies happening, as Shane Victorino seems to be a better fit than Pence. Then again, maybe they will end up trading for Pence.
Stay Tuned.
Breaking News: Giants Have Deal in Place for Hunter Pence, Awaiting Ownership Approval
Update 10:20 PM : According to Giants' VP Bobby Evans, there is "no truth to the rumors" that Pence has been traded to the Giants. Dennis O'Donnell better get his sources straightened out.
Giants VP Bobby Evans texts that there's "no truth to the rumor" the Giants have a deal in place for Pence.
— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) July 30, 2012
Update: Minor league catcher Tommy Joseph is in the deal, according to Dennis O'Donnell of KPIX.
Original Story
KPIX-TV is reporting that the Giants have a deal in place to acquire Hunter Pence from the Philadelphia Phillies, pending ownership approval.
KPIX-TV is reporting that the Giants have a "deal in place" for Hunter Pence, pending ownership approval.Pence, an outfielder, is hitting .268 with 17 home runs and 59 RBI this season with the Phillies.
— Andrew Baggarly (@CSNBaggs) July 30, 2012
Stay tuned, we will alert you on this story as it breaks.
Golden State Warriors Offseason Homework: Klay Thompson
This article was first published on BlueManHoop.
Klay Thompson's Assignment: Attack the Basket More Often and More Efficiently
We all know that Klay Thompson can shoot the lights out of the gym. He led all rookies in three-point shooting percentage (.414) and three-pointers made (111) last season. There is no doubt that he will be regarded as one of the top sharpshooters in the NBA in the very near future.
But the same cannot be said about him when he is attacking the basket. Take a look at these advanced stats of Thompson's shot location courtesy of HoopData:
Shot Locations At Rim 3-9 Feet 10-15 Feet
| Player Name | Yr | Tm | Pos | GP | Min | M | A | FG% | %As | M | A | FG% | %As | M | A | FG% | %As | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klay Thompson | 2012 | GSW | G | 66 | 24.4 | 1.2 | 1.8 | 65.8 | 53.2 | 0.1 | 0.7 | 20.9 | 22.2 | 0.3 | 0.7 | 44.2 | 47.4 |
Ok, so what can we derive form this chart?
One thing stands out: take a look at Thompson's stats of shots from 3-9 feet, (which are conveniently highlighted in red) and compare them to the other shot locations. This is the one area that he seems to struggle in, shooting just 20.9 percent on field goals from within ten feet of the basket. Another point that this chart proves is that he doesn't even try to attempt shots close to the basket; only 0.7 attempts per game and making just 0.1 of them.
His field goal percentages form the other areas of the floor are all above 40 percent, but his Achilles' heel seems to be the area around the basket.
On Thompson's Twitter bio, he states he is "trying to catch Ray Allen one day". He may have as a good a three-point shot as Allen, but keep in mind that Allen also has the tenacity to attack the rim (the guy was in the dunk contest once, for Pete's sake).
I know this may seem unfair, but since Thompsom wants to be like Allen, let's show "Ray Ray's" shot location stats since 2007:
Shot Locations At Rim 3-9 Feet 10-15 Feet
| Player Name | Yr | Tm | Pos | GP | Min | M | A | FG% | %As | M | A | FG% | %As | M | A | FG% | %As | ||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ray Allen | 2007 | SEA | SG | 55 | 40.4 | 2.4 | 3.9 | 61.0 | 23.1 | 0.5 | 1.6 | 34.0 | 16.7 | 1.1 | 2.0 | 52.0 | 22.4 | ||||||||
| Ray Allen | 2008 | BOS | SG | 73 | 35.9 | 1.6 | 2.6 | 60.0 | 50.4 | 0.5 | 1.0 | 44.0 | 30.3 | 0.3 | 1.0 | 31.0 | 43.5 | ||||||||
| Ray Allen | 2009 | BOS | SG | 79 | 36.3 | 1.5 | 2.4 | 64.0 | 60.3 | 0.4 | 0.6 | 60.0 | 41.4 | 0.6 | 1.2 | 47.0 | 27.3 | ||||||||
| Ray Allen | 2010 | BOS | SG | 80 | 35.2 | 1.8 | 2.7 | 67.8 | 58.6 | 0.5 | 1.0 | 47.5 | 52.6 | 0.5 | 0.9 | 57.7 | 61.0 | ||||||||
| Ray Allen | 2011 | BOS | SG | 80 | 36.1 | 1.5 | 2.3 | 65.0 | 59.8 | 0.4 | 0.9 | 45.6 | 51.6 | 0.6 | 1.1 | 48.9 | 50.0 | ||||||||
| Ray Allen | 2012 | BOS | SG | 46 | 34.1 | 1.2 | 1.7 | 68.8 | 58.5 | 0.3 | 0.7 | 35.3 | 41.7 | 0.4 | 1.0 | 40.9 | 72.2 |
As you can see, Allen's field goal percentage on shots from within ten feet is well above Thompson's meager 20.9 percent. Even at age 37, Allen was able to squeeze out a 35.3 shooting percentage.
It obviously isn't fair game to compare a future Hall-of-Famer to a developing second year player, but Thompson should look up to Allen as a mentor. What made Ray Allen so lethal in his prime was his ability and willingness to attack the basket. If defenders backed off on him, he would drain a three. If they played him tight, he would just blow right past the defender to the rim.
That is exactly what Klay Thompson has to do if he wants to take his game to the next level. We all know that he can shoot the three, but we also know that he can't drive and attack the basket. Teams will (and already have) pick up on that and play him tight on the perimeter, forcing him to either give up the ball or drive to the rim, which, as evidenced by the stats, is not exactly his strong suit.
