This and That
Each week I'll give my thoughts on the world of sports:
• The weather really played havoc on the golfers at the U.S. Open. It was a real factor because those who teed off early on the first day did not have the same conditions as those who began play on day two. That is the reality of golf. The course would have been tough if the weather was good, and some guys were aided by softer greens. Still, to have to deal with delays had to be very difficult.
• Alex Rodriguez was given two days of rest (though he did pinch hit on Saturday). He has really struggled with his bat and the Yankees need him to produce in that lineup. That potent bat also plays a part in the success of first baseman Mark Teixeira as Rodriguez provides protection batting behind him. Remember, after the hip surgery the expectations had to be lowered a bit. There are more than three months remaining for A-Rod to get things going.
• Isn't it sad to keep reading stories about Ryan Leaf, Donte' Stallworth and now Bernie Kosar. Yes, I know Kosar's problems deal with finances, but the bottom line is guys make decisions that lead to dilemmas. Athletes don't always have it easy, and it comes down to making the right choices. Kosar can get things straightened out. Leaf has had one problem after another. Stallworth will be spending some jail time after his unfortunate incident.
• Speaking of sad, the news leaked out that Sammy Sosa was on a list of those who failed a drug test back in 2003. Once again, baseball gets a black eye. My friends, I agree with what was written by a columnist down here in Florida, Doug Fernandes. He said that it is time for all of the names on that list to come out, instead of it being leaked out one by one. It is a joke and I am so tired of this. I understand how some feel there should be privacy, but this is coming out time and time again and it hurts the sport. Let's get it over already. Baseball doesn't need any more embarrassment.
• I am also tired of the stories hurting college basketball during the off-season. Derrick Rose and O.J. Mayo have been in the headlines, and it is giving college hoops a negative feel. It really humiliates those who do things the right way.
• Tom Glavine decided to shut down any idea of pitching again this season. I am sure he was frustrated by the Braves' decision to release him. He was probably hurt by that move. Meanwhile, Atlanta called up Tommy Hanson and he really looks like he is going to be a legit major league pitcher. Glavine has had a great career, a future Hall of Famer, and he may be able to help someone in the future if he wants to come back.
• With Wimbledon getting underway, I am going with two of the favorites to win: Venus Williams should make it a three-peat, possibly beating her sister in the final & they are on opposite ends of the draw. I like Roger Federer to break Pete Sampras' record with his 15th Grand Slam singles title and sixth at Wimbledon.
