One More Stadium Panorama Photo
As an update to my previous post, I took another nice set of wide-angle photos during a recent visit to Citi Field and put together yet one more merged panorama image of the stadium. I really like this one. See below:
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Subscribe to RobMontañez.comBaseball Stadium Panoramas
I've been lucky enough to be able visit several of the baseball stadiums here in the northeast as they are all within reasonable driving distance. When I do I always take along my trusty camera and lenses and take wide angle photos of the entire stadium and then later merge the shots together using software to create one large panoramic photograph. I then use other software to allow zooming and panning through the large final photo. I've done it with New York's Citi Field (home of the NY Mets) Yankee Stadium (home of the NY Yankees), and with Philadelphia's Citizen's Bank Park (home of the Phillies) and Baltimore's' Camden Yards (home of the Orioles).
In the past, because of business travel, I've visited about another 10 or so other stadiums across the country, but I either did not have the camera gear or the inclination to take the photos. My hope is to someday go back to those parks and take panoramas of the stadiums I missed and any new ones I visit as well. But in the meantime here's a link to the four stadiums I've done so far:
Click to View
In the past, because of business travel, I've visited about another 10 or so other stadiums across the country, but I either did not have the camera gear or the inclination to take the photos. My hope is to someday go back to those parks and take panoramas of the stadiums I missed and any new ones I visit as well. But in the meantime here's a link to the four stadiums I've done so far:
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comYankees Roster for Opening Day
Sat, Apr 3 2010 07:15 PM
| Sports
C - Jorge Posada
C - Francisco Cervelli
1B - Mark Teixeira
1B - Nick Johnson
2B - Robinson Cano
3B - Alex Rodriguez
SS - Derek Jeter
IF - Ramiro Pena
OF - Nick Swisher
OF - Curtis Granderson
OF - Brett Gardner
OF - Randy Winn
OF - Marcus Thames
LHP - CC Sabathia
RHP - A.J. Burnett
LHP - Andy Pettitte
RHP - Javier Vazquez
RHP - Phil Hughes
RHP - Sergio Mitre
RHP - Chan Ho Park
RHP - Alfredo Aceves
RHP - David Robertson
LHP - Damaso Marte
RHP - Joba Chamberlain
RHP - Mariano Rivera
-- Posted From My iPhone
C - Francisco Cervelli
1B - Mark Teixeira
1B - Nick Johnson
2B - Robinson Cano
3B - Alex Rodriguez
SS - Derek Jeter
IF - Ramiro Pena
OF - Nick Swisher
OF - Curtis Granderson
OF - Brett Gardner
OF - Randy Winn
OF - Marcus Thames
LHP - CC Sabathia
RHP - A.J. Burnett
LHP - Andy Pettitte
RHP - Javier Vazquez
RHP - Phil Hughes
RHP - Sergio Mitre
RHP - Chan Ho Park
RHP - Alfredo Aceves
RHP - David Robertson
LHP - Damaso Marte
RHP - Joba Chamberlain
RHP - Mariano Rivera
-- Posted From My iPhone
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comOpening Day 2010 Coming Soon
Fri, Mar 26 2010 08:22 AM
| Sports
The beginning of the 2010 Major League Baseball season will finally be upon us in about 10 days and this season promises to be an exciting one.
For those of us that live in the northeastern Unites States, there are some amazing rivalries that will resume their fervor. I plan on attending a few live games in New York and Philadelphia, and will be watching quite a few on television. The New York Yankees are coming off a championship season in their new stadium while the New York Mets are trying to recover from an injury-riddled, disastrous year at their new stadium.
As usual, the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are both recent World Series champions that hope to obliterate the two New York teams and return to the Fall Classic. In addition, strong southeastern teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Florida Marlins, and Atlanta Braves hope to spoil the northerners' party plans. It all makes for exciting, dramatic baseball throughout the summer. So hold on to your hats! Baseball's Opening Day is almost here!
For those of us that live in the northeastern Unites States, there are some amazing rivalries that will resume their fervor. I plan on attending a few live games in New York and Philadelphia, and will be watching quite a few on television. The New York Yankees are coming off a championship season in their new stadium while the New York Mets are trying to recover from an injury-riddled, disastrous year at their new stadium.
As usual, the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are both recent World Series champions that hope to obliterate the two New York teams and return to the Fall Classic. In addition, strong southeastern teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Florida Marlins, and Atlanta Braves hope to spoil the northerners' party plans. It all makes for exciting, dramatic baseball throughout the summer. So hold on to your hats! Baseball's Opening Day is almost here!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comMay The Best Quarterback Win
Sun, Feb 7 2010 04:13 PM
| Sports
More than in any year that I can remember, this year's Super Bowl will be decided by the play of the two respective quarterbacks. Although both teams have great offensive and defensive lines and special teams, we are talking about two very special play callers leading very high-powered offenses.
On the one side you have Indianapolis’ Peyton Manning, who is is not just the N.F.L.’s most valuable player for the fourth time, but perhaps the dominant player of his generation. In his 12th season, he's passed for more than 50,000 yards and ranks among the top five all-time in that category, as well as for career touchdown passes and wins.
On the other side you have New Orleans' Drew Brees, who has been an elite regular-season passer that makes the Saints a legitimate threat to win any game they play. But guess who's had better numbers than Manning the past four years? Brees, who has an NFL-best 18,298 yards and 30 300-yard games the last 4 seasons. His numbers compare well to those of Peyton Manning, and he will finally get a chance to win a championship.
I'm not sure who will win this battle, but I do have one prediction, one of these two great quarterbacks, if not both, will throw for 400 yards. May the best QB win!
On the one side you have Indianapolis’ Peyton Manning, who is is not just the N.F.L.’s most valuable player for the fourth time, but perhaps the dominant player of his generation. In his 12th season, he's passed for more than 50,000 yards and ranks among the top five all-time in that category, as well as for career touchdown passes and wins.
On the other side you have New Orleans' Drew Brees, who has been an elite regular-season passer that makes the Saints a legitimate threat to win any game they play. But guess who's had better numbers than Manning the past four years? Brees, who has an NFL-best 18,298 yards and 30 300-yard games the last 4 seasons. His numbers compare well to those of Peyton Manning, and he will finally get a chance to win a championship.
I'm not sure who will win this battle, but I do have one prediction, one of these two great quarterbacks, if not both, will throw for 400 yards. May the best QB win!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comYANKEES 7, PHILLIES 3
Thu, Nov 5 2009 07:25 AM
| Sports
The New York Yankees captured their first title since 2000, defeating the defending champion Philadelphia Phillies in Game 6 of the baseball World Series at Yankee Stadium. As a former New Yorker now living in New Jersey on the outskirts of what is considered a Philadelphia suburb and where I'm surrounded by neighbors who are almost all Phillies fans, I'm very, very pleased.
Derek Jeter and Mariano Rivera Celebrate!
I visited the new Yankee Stadium a few times this year and took quite a lot of photos. What a way for the core homegrown four - Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, and Jorge Posada, players that have been here for all of the five most recent World Series championships to christen the new $1.5 billion ballpark. People will complain about the money, that this is a $208-million baseball team this year. But all the money in the world can't buy you a championship. You still need talent, smarts, chemistry, leadership and dedication and this team had lots of it. Congratulations to the New York Yankees!
I visited the new Yankee Stadium a few times this year and took quite a lot of photos. What a way for the core homegrown four - Mariano Rivera, Derek Jeter, Andy Pettitte, and Jorge Posada, players that have been here for all of the five most recent World Series championships to christen the new $1.5 billion ballpark. People will complain about the money, that this is a $208-million baseball team this year. But all the money in the world can't buy you a championship. You still need talent, smarts, chemistry, leadership and dedication and this team had lots of it. Congratulations to the New York Yankees!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comCitizen's Bank Park Panorama
A few weeks ago I wrote an article that compared both of the newly built New York City baseball stadiums, the NY Mets' Citi Field and the NY Yankees' Yankee Stadium. The piece featured many great photos. Despite being a former New York resident and a fan of its sports teams, for the past 5 years I've actually lived in Southern New Jersey near Philadelphia, Pennsylvania. Because of this I'm only about a half-hour's drive from the Philadelphia Phillies' home stadium, Citizen's Bank Park. I attend quite few games there during the season, mainly whenever the Mets are in town to play the Phillies.
Below is a panorama shot taken from the third base line from a recent game game I attended. Despite the fact that I dislike that too many of Philadelphia fans are unruly and that the stadium is a bandbox where home runs come too easily, the stadium can still be a pleasant place to watch a game. I've taken quite a few photos there.
Below is a panorama shot taken from the third base line from a recent game game I attended. Despite the fact that I dislike that too many of Philadelphia fans are unruly and that the stadium is a bandbox where home runs come too easily, the stadium can still be a pleasant place to watch a game. I've taken quite a few photos there.
Panorama of Citizen's Bank Park from the 3rd base line
(Click To View)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comThe New Stadiums
Both of the two New York City baseball teams have built and opened brand new stadiums this year. I have visited both venues several times to watch games in the last two months. As a result I've written an article to contrast and compare both the New York Mets' new Citi Field and the New York Yankees' new Yankee Stadium. I also included quite a number of photos in a few slideshows. So, which one stadium do I like better? Read on and find out.
The New Stadiums
(Click To View)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comCiti Field Panorama
As I mentioned a week ago since both New York City baseball teams have built and opened new stadiums, I'm going to be visiting both venues a few times in the next 2 months. I'm planning on writing an article that will compare both the NY Mets' Citi Field and the NY Yankees' Yankee Stadium. The piece will feature as many photos as I can muster. Below is a second small preview of what I'm planning to do. It's a panorama shot of the new Citi Field, taken Saturday from the third base line. The Mets defeated the Washington Nationals 8-2 in a blowout game.
Panorama of the new Citi Field from 3rd base line
(Click To View)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comThe New Stadiums - Preview
Since both New York City baseball teams have built and opened new stadiums, I'm going to be visiting both venues a few times in the next 2 months. I'm planning on writing an article that will compare both the NY Mets' Citi Field and the NY Yankees' Yankee Stadium. The piece will feature as many photos as I can muster. Below is a small preview of what I'm planning to do. It's a panorama shot of the new Yankee Stadium, taken yesterday behind home plate. The Bronx Bombers defeated the Cleveland Indians 7-3 in an exciting game.
Panorama of the New Yankee Stadium from behind home plate
(Click To View)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comOpening Day 2009
Sun, Apr 5 2009 10:00 AM
| Sports
The beginning of the 2009 Major League Baseball season is finally upon us and this season promises to be an exciting one. For those of us that live in the northeastern Unites States, there are some amazing rivalries that will resume their fervor.
The New York Mets and New York Yankees have new stadiums and the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are both recent World Series champions that hope to return to the Fall Classic. In addition, strong southeastern teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Florida Marlins, and Atlanta Braves hope to spoil the northerners' party plans. It all makes for exciting, dramatic baseball throughout the summer. So hold on to your hats! Baseball's Opening Day is here!
The New York Mets and New York Yankees have new stadiums and the Boston Red Sox and Philadelphia Phillies are both recent World Series champions that hope to return to the Fall Classic. In addition, strong southeastern teams like the Tampa Bay Rays, Florida Marlins, and Atlanta Braves hope to spoil the northerners' party plans. It all makes for exciting, dramatic baseball throughout the summer. So hold on to your hats! Baseball's Opening Day is here!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comSugar
For every Sammy Sosa, David Ortiz, Albert Pujols, Jose Reyes, or Manny Ramirez, there are a hundred exploited kids in the Dominican Republic with a dream of getting off the island by playing baseball. But many of these kids end up broken and disappointed. I'm looking forward to a film called Sugar that is opening in theaters on Friday, April 3rd that touches on the subject.
The film Sugar follows the story of a fictional character called Miguel Santos, a.k.a. Sugar, a Dominican pitcher from San Pedro De Macorís, struggling to make it to the big leagues and pull himself and his family out of poverty. Playing professionally at a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic, Miguel finally gets his break at age 19 when he advances to the United States’ minor league system; but when his play on the mound falters, he begins to question the single-mindedness of his life’s ambition.
Sugar quickly learns that opposing batters are only one of the challenges he faces as he arrives in Iowa and begins to deal with temptation and disappointment. Sugar stars Algenis Perez Soto and is written and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. Watch the trailer below:
Sugar
(Click To View Trailer)
The film Sugar follows the story of a fictional character called Miguel Santos, a.k.a. Sugar, a Dominican pitcher from San Pedro De Macorís, struggling to make it to the big leagues and pull himself and his family out of poverty. Playing professionally at a baseball academy in the Dominican Republic, Miguel finally gets his break at age 19 when he advances to the United States’ minor league system; but when his play on the mound falters, he begins to question the single-mindedness of his life’s ambition.
Sugar quickly learns that opposing batters are only one of the challenges he faces as he arrives in Iowa and begins to deal with temptation and disappointment. Sugar stars Algenis Perez Soto and is written and directed by Anna Boden and Ryan Fleck. Watch the trailer below:
Sugar
(Click To View Trailer)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comEnjoying The 2009 WBC
Sat, Mar 14 2009 07:56 AM
| Sports
The second round of the 2009 World Baseball Classic (WBC) begins today in Miami, Florida and San Diego, California with the bracket narrowed down to eight teams from the original 16 teams that began play in the first round. 
The 2009 WBC tournament has been a success so far with some exciting close games, some blowouts and a few home-run slugfests. The first round games were played in Mexico City, Mexico; Toronto, Canada; San Juan, Puerto Rico; and Tokyo, Japan.
The remaining eight teams are Japan, Korea, Cuba, Mexico, the United States, Puerto Rico, the Netherlands and Venezuela. The only surprise team out of this group is the Netherlands, which stunned the favored Dominican Republic team in Round 1. They are clearly the cinderella team of the tournament. Otherwise the other 7 were expected to be here and are all strong contenders. The previous WBC in 2006 provides a reminder that the teams are not to take anything for granted as a favored U.S. team had a disappointing showing, while this year a similarly heavily favored Dominican team was also stopped in its tracks.
The second round is a double-elimination format (as was the first round). The format has made sure that the best teams have advanced, as any of the remaining teams could earn a place in the final three-day weekend of semifinal games and a final game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, March 21-23. One game to watch this weekend is the face-off between Japan and Cuba, two favorites which met in the 2006 WBC championship game that Japan won, 10-6. They will square off early in the 2nd round tomorrow on Sunday. A global audience will be watching.
The remaining eight teams are Japan, Korea, Cuba, Mexico, the United States, Puerto Rico, the Netherlands and Venezuela. The only surprise team out of this group is the Netherlands, which stunned the favored Dominican Republic team in Round 1. They are clearly the cinderella team of the tournament. Otherwise the other 7 were expected to be here and are all strong contenders. The previous WBC in 2006 provides a reminder that the teams are not to take anything for granted as a favored U.S. team had a disappointing showing, while this year a similarly heavily favored Dominican team was also stopped in its tracks.
The second round is a double-elimination format (as was the first round). The format has made sure that the best teams have advanced, as any of the remaining teams could earn a place in the final three-day weekend of semifinal games and a final game at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, March 21-23. One game to watch this weekend is the face-off between Japan and Cuba, two favorites which met in the 2006 WBC championship game that Japan won, 10-6. They will square off early in the 2nd round tomorrow on Sunday. A global audience will be watching.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comA-Rod allegedly another steroid cheat
It's just a damned shame. Basically the entire period of baseball from about 1985- 2005 was a big sham. They should just chuck all the records attained during the era. I've been a lifetime baseball fan and It's really disappointing to think it was all so tainted. Don Fehr, Bud Selig and many others throughout the sport of baseball knew what the truth was and simply kept a blind eye.
By the way, also on that 2003 Texas Rangers team that Alex Rodriguez was on when he is alleged to have taken steroids: Rafael Palmeiro, Juan Gonzalez, and a rookie named Mark Texeira. Also, amazing is the fact that every day that passes by and the public finds out more about the baseball steroids era, Jose Canseco begins to look more honest, upfront and vindicated for writing his money-grubbing baseball expose.
Below in an interview in 2007 with Katie Couric of CBS News, A-Rod answers point-blank "No." when asked if he had ever used steroids or other banned substances.
Alex Rodriguez answers "No" when asked if he ever took steroids
(Click To View)
(courtesy of CBS News)
By the way, also on that 2003 Texas Rangers team that Alex Rodriguez was on when he is alleged to have taken steroids: Rafael Palmeiro, Juan Gonzalez, and a rookie named Mark Texeira. Also, amazing is the fact that every day that passes by and the public finds out more about the baseball steroids era, Jose Canseco begins to look more honest, upfront and vindicated for writing his money-grubbing baseball expose.
Below in an interview in 2007 with Katie Couric of CBS News, A-Rod answers point-blank "No." when asked if he had ever used steroids or other banned substances.
Alex Rodriguez answers "No" when asked if he ever took steroids
(Click To View)
(courtesy of CBS News)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comFlights Over Old Shea and New Citi
As can be seen from the photos taken this week (courtesy of www.wcbs880.com) pictured at the right and also below, venerable old Shea Stadium is almost gone and will soon be just a memory and the new Citi Field almost ready for the New York Mets Opening Day in April.
Also below is a 10–minute YouTube video clip of flights taken from a remote control airplane with a camera attached that circled around the demolition of Shea Stadium and the construction of new Citi Field during random days over the last few months.
Citi Field Almost Ready
(courtesy of www.wcbs880.com)
Video of Flights with Remote Control Airplane Over Shea and Citi
(Click To View)
Also below is a 10–minute YouTube video clip of flights taken from a remote control airplane with a camera attached that circled around the demolition of Shea Stadium and the construction of new Citi Field during random days over the last few months.
Citi Field Almost Ready
(courtesy of www.wcbs880.com)
Video of Flights with Remote Control Airplane Over Shea and Citi
(Click To View)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comA Little Perspective
Sat, Jan 31 2009 08:58 AM
| Sports
So tomorrow is Super Bowl Sunday and (like almost everyone else) I’m looking forward to what will hopefully be an exciting football game. I’m reminded, though, that there are a whole bunch of folks that are far away from their homes and in harm’s way in Iraq and Afghanistan. My heart goes out to those people and their families. Let’s pray they get home soon. Enjoy the game!
Super Bowl XLIII
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comFormidable Bronx Rotation
Mon, Jan 26 2009 02:44 PM
| Sports
Andy Pettitte
It's beginning to look like Yankees lefty hurler Andy Pettitte is close to signing a contract that will bring him back to the Bronx Bombers for another year. If so, it is shaping up to be quite an imposing pitching rotation that the N.Y. Yankees will be throwing at their American League rivals this coming season. It will basically look like this:
We are looking at a 14-game winner (Pettitte), a 17-game winner (Sabathia), and an 18-game winner (Burnett) from last season. Add to that a player who won 19 games in both 2006 and 2007 (Wang), and a promising young star with a miniscule 2.17 ERA so far in his short career (Chamberlain). Let's also not forgot that the offense and defense gets a boost with the acquisition of free agent Mark Texeira to play first base. It's going to be a fascinating season at the new Yankee Stadium.
(Pictured: Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Chamberlain)
We are looking at a 14-game winner (Pettitte), a 17-game winner (Sabathia), and an 18-game winner (Burnett) from last season. Add to that a player who won 19 games in both 2006 and 2007 (Wang), and a promising young star with a miniscule 2.17 ERA so far in his short career (Chamberlain). Let's also not forgot that the offense and defense gets a boost with the acquisition of free agent Mark Texeira to play first base. It's going to be a fascinating season at the new Yankee Stadium.
(Pictured: Sabathia, Burnett, Wang, Chamberlain)
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comYankees Christmas Present
Thu, Dec 25 2008 10:37 AM
| Sports
It's been quite a haul for the New York Yankees. They not only landed the two best pitchers available via free agency this year in C.C. Sabathia and A.J. Burnett, but also arguably the best all-around player available in Mark Texeira (some might debate that the best hitter, Manny Ramirez, is still available). For those keeping track, the Yankees have now spent more money this off-season than all the other 29 major league baseball teams combined.
Mark Texeira in a Yankees pinstripe uniform
(Click To Zoom)
It obviously irks many that the Yankees are ignoring an economic recession and spending money exorbitantly, but I would argue that having a good New York team is actually good for the health of the major leagues and the economy in general. New York fans are spread all over the country and they spend and watch more baseball than any other fan base. That can only help stimulate the economy.
The team will be strong and competitive, but it doesn't guarantee a championship. You can't buy pennants, they still have to be won on the field. The upcoming season will be an interesting one and fun to watch. I can't wait!
(Click To Zoom)
It obviously irks many that the Yankees are ignoring an economic recession and spending money exorbitantly, but I would argue that having a good New York team is actually good for the health of the major leagues and the economy in general. New York fans are spread all over the country and they spend and watch more baseball than any other fan base. That can only help stimulate the economy.
The team will be strong and competitive, but it doesn't guarantee a championship. You can't buy pennants, they still have to be won on the field. The upcoming season will be an interesting one and fun to watch. I can't wait!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comCan The Mets Strike Out Again?
Tue, Nov 11 2008 09:29 AM
| Sports
The last two seasons have been disastrous for Mets fans. In 2007, the New York Mets had one of the biggest collapses in baseball history by blowing a seven-game National League East lead with 17 to play and missing the playoffs as the Philadelphia Phillies charged past them to win the division title.
This past season, with 17 games remaining, the Mets had a 3 1/2-game edge. The Mets lost eight of their final 13 games and collapsed again, failing to make the postseason for the second year in a row. The rival Phillies went on to win their first World Series in 28 years.
The Mets will open their 2009 season in a new stadium, Citi Field, and their fans are left to ask themselves, "Can they do the same three years in a row?" Hopefully not. The Mets still have a core of strong players. They will, though, need to fill some glaring holes in their arsenal.
David Wright Strikes Out On a Ball In The Dirt
Their collapses the last two years were the result of woeful bullpens. The past season the porous bullpen had a serious meltdown due primarily to Billy Wagner's season-ending arm injury. Without a real closer the Mets’ bullpen proceeded to blow a number of leads late in the season. Their middle relievers were forced to play roles they were uncomfortable with. Billy Wagner will not be back in 2009, so acquiring a solid closer is priority one.
Secondly, the Mets predominately left-handed lineup needs a strong right-handed hitter, preferably one that can play left field or second base. So can the Mets bounce back next year? They had better, as fans will be on them from opening day.
The Mets can't go through a third collapse. It would mean their fans would desert them in droves. They would then perhaps say bye-bye to some of their lucrative cable money as no one likes to watch a bad team. It could also keep fans away from the box office, say hello to an empty new stadium?
We'll see. I don't think the Wilpons and Omar Minaya will allow that losing scenario to happen. I fully expect the Mets to be very active in trades and the free agent market.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comDifferent Year, Different Team
Sat, Sep 20 2008 08:29 AM
| Sports
Last season, the New York Mets had one of the biggest collapses in baseball history by blowing a seven-game National League East lead with 17 to play and missing the playoffs as the Philadelphia Phillies charged past them to win the division title. This season, with 17 games remaining, the Mets had a 3 1/2-game edge. They proceeded to lose four out of the next five games and dropped into second place. Many have begun to believe that the Mets could actually blow it again this year.
Ace Johan Santana Has Been The Stopper The Mets Needed
Photo: © 2008 Rob Montañez
The up-and-down Mets are definitely on a wild ride through September, but just when everyone thought they were headed for another collapse, they've won three straight to move back into first place. They are an imperfect team this year, with a leaky bullpen, injuries and two starting pitchers (Martinez and Perez) that have tended to play Jekyll and Hyde all season. There are still about 9 games left in the season and anything can happen, but I think the Mets will persevere and either win the division or the wildcard this year. The reason is that this is a vastly different team this year. I cite the following main changes from last year that have made a difference:
Ace Johan Santana Has Been The Stopper The Mets Needed
Photo: © 2008 Rob Montañez
The up-and-down Mets are definitely on a wild ride through September, but just when everyone thought they were headed for another collapse, they've won three straight to move back into first place. They are an imperfect team this year, with a leaky bullpen, injuries and two starting pitchers (Martinez and Perez) that have tended to play Jekyll and Hyde all season. There are still about 9 games left in the season and anything can happen, but I think the Mets will persevere and either win the division or the wildcard this year. The reason is that this is a vastly different team this year. I cite the following main changes from last year that have made a difference:
- The Ace: Johan Santana, as I noted back in January when the Mets traded for him, is a bonafide star that serves as a stopper and will keep the Mets from having extended losing streaks by keeping the team in almost all the games he starts and always giving them a good chance to win every 5th day.
- The Manager: Jerry Manuel has had a steadier hand in controlling the direction of the team and taking chances when he needs to. Last year, Willie Randolph stood back and let things happen instead of taking a firmer hand.
- The Rookies: Daniel Murphy, Argenis Reyes, and Nick Evans have injected the team with some needed youthful energy down the stretch when the veterans are tired and need a spark.
- The Table Setter: Jose Reyes has conserved his energy this season and looks a whole lot less tired than he did last year. He wreaks havoc as the lead-off batter and on the bases. Whatever way he goes, so do the Mets.
- The Thumper: Carlos Delgado is a prideful man on a mission. Many had written him off early this season and he has turned it around and salvaged his career by becoming a force in the lineup once again and hitting clutch home runs.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comBaseball Rivalries Renew
Tue, Aug 26 2008 11:27 AM
| Sports
The New York Mets (73-59), who lead the division by one-half game over the Phillies (72-59), begin a key two-game set in Philadelphia today. The Mets are still trying to move beyond the memory of last season's major collapse. They lost a seven-game lead with 17 games left, letting Philadelphia win the NL East and missing the playoffs on the final day of the regular season.
The Resurgence of Carlos Delgado
The Mets began this season poorly which led to former manager Willie Randolph's firing. New manager Jerry Manuel has led the team back to first place and they have been playing well despite numerous injuries to the pitching staff, outfield and infield. The play of bench reserves, the resurgence of Carlos Delgado and the steady play of David Wright and Jose Reyes have picked up the slack to help keep them in first place. With about 30 games left in the season every game is now important, but none more so than those against your closest rival, the surging Phillies.
The New York Yankees (70-60) have also had their own share of major injuries. The injuries, poor pitching and lack of timely hitting have left them sitting five games behind the Boston Red Sox (75-55) in the AL wild card race and nine and one-half games behind the surprising AL East leading Tampa Bay Rays (79-50). The Yankees and Red Sox play a three-game series in New York starting tonight. The teams have split their previous head-to-head games this season, but this is a must-win series for the Yanks. If they wish to remain in contention for at least a wild card berth, they must overcome their inconsistent play.
Derek Jeter Has Had a Rough Season
It's either win or the Bronx Bombers can perhaps forget about making the playoffs, which would be the first time that's occurred in 14 years. I wouldn't count the Yankees out just yet, though, as the Mets' 2007 collapse serves as a reminder that anything is possible until a team clinches.
The Resurgence of Carlos Delgado
The Mets began this season poorly which led to former manager Willie Randolph's firing. New manager Jerry Manuel has led the team back to first place and they have been playing well despite numerous injuries to the pitching staff, outfield and infield. The play of bench reserves, the resurgence of Carlos Delgado and the steady play of David Wright and Jose Reyes have picked up the slack to help keep them in first place. With about 30 games left in the season every game is now important, but none more so than those against your closest rival, the surging Phillies.
The New York Yankees (70-60) have also had their own share of major injuries. The injuries, poor pitching and lack of timely hitting have left them sitting five games behind the Boston Red Sox (75-55) in the AL wild card race and nine and one-half games behind the surprising AL East leading Tampa Bay Rays (79-50). The Yankees and Red Sox play a three-game series in New York starting tonight. The teams have split their previous head-to-head games this season, but this is a must-win series for the Yanks. If they wish to remain in contention for at least a wild card berth, they must overcome their inconsistent play.
It's either win or the Bronx Bombers can perhaps forget about making the playoffs, which would be the first time that's occurred in 14 years. I wouldn't count the Yankees out just yet, though, as the Mets' 2007 collapse serves as a reminder that anything is possible until a team clinches.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comHe Did It!
Sun, Aug 17 2008 12:33 AM
| Sports, Television
Amazing performance, one they will talk about for many years to come. Michael Phelps broke Mark Spitz's 1972 record for most golds at a single Olympic games.
Phelps raced 17 times and garnered 8 gold medals, 7 world records and one Olympic record. Those are records that I doubt any one will every duplicate.
Congratulations to Michael Phelps! Go USA! Now it's time to stop staying up so late to watch it on television. Too tiring, I need my sleep!
Phelps raced 17 times and garnered 8 gold medals, 7 world records and one Olympic record. Those are records that I doubt any one will every duplicate.
Congratulations to Michael Phelps! Go USA! Now it's time to stop staying up so late to watch it on television. Too tiring, I need my sleep!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.com1-100th of a Second. One Word: Wow
Sat, Aug 16 2008 12:44 AM
| Sports, Television
Winning a race by one-one-hundreth of a second (1/100) is mind-boggling. How much space is that? Perhaps several molecules? Michael Phelps won another amazing race to tie Mark Spitz's record of seven gold medals in one Olympics.
Phelps did it in a thrilling manner with an Olympic record time of 50:58 in the 100 meter butterfly, coming from behind to just barely out-touch another racer from Serbia who came in at 50.59, just 0.01 behind. Phelps will be going for a record 8th gold medal in a relay race on Sunday. I'm sure much of America will be watching, I certainly will.
Phelps did it in a thrilling manner with an Olympic record time of 50:58 in the 100 meter butterfly, coming from behind to just barely out-touch another racer from Serbia who came in at 50.59, just 0.01 behind. Phelps will be going for a record 8th gold medal in a relay race on Sunday. I'm sure much of America will be watching, I certainly will.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comWhat a Race!
Mon, Aug 11 2008 09:11 AM
| Sports, Television
Last night we watched one of the best come-from-behind swimming performances in Olympic history. Before the men's 4x100 swimming relay final at the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, French swimmer Alain Bernard, the world-record holder in the 100-meter freestyle, had said that his team would "smash" the Americans.
During the race, it looked like they were about to. The Americans were clearly behind the favored French, when Jason Lezak, the oldest man on the U.S. swimming team at 32 years old, dove in to swim the anchor leg. Lezak made up some ground, but with 25 meters remaining (half the length of the pool) he was still behind and it appeared as if he would run out of pool. But then Lezak pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in Olympic history just barely catching Bernard at the wall in an improbable finish to give the U.S. foursome the gold and keep his relay partner and teammate Michael Phelps' pursuit of a record eight gold medals alive. The U.S. team's win over the French was unbelievable. Think those loudmouths will ever gloat again? Me neither.
During the race, it looked like they were about to. The Americans were clearly behind the favored French, when Jason Lezak, the oldest man on the U.S. swimming team at 32 years old, dove in to swim the anchor leg. Lezak made up some ground, but with 25 meters remaining (half the length of the pool) he was still behind and it appeared as if he would run out of pool. But then Lezak pulled off one of the greatest comebacks in Olympic history just barely catching Bernard at the wall in an improbable finish to give the U.S. foursome the gold and keep his relay partner and teammate Michael Phelps' pursuit of a record eight gold medals alive. The U.S. team's win over the French was unbelievable. Think those loudmouths will ever gloat again? Me neither.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comNBC's Dumb Decision to Delay
Fri, Aug 8 2008 12:50 PM
| Sports, Television
NBC's decision to only air the opening ceremonies of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing 12 hours later in the United States is just plain wrong. While the rest of the world gets to see the ceremony in real-time and in hi-def, the viewing public in the U.S. are relegated to using web feeds, social networks and/or twiddling their thumbs.
NBC obviously wanted to air the ceremony only during prime time tonight where they can reap the most money. A truly wonderful piece of Olympic spirit from the old peacock network. It's really all about the money. The right thing to do would have been to air it both live and tonight. Let's hope this doesn't continue as a trend over the next two weeks of the event's coverage.
NBC obviously wanted to air the ceremony only during prime time tonight where they can reap the most money. A truly wonderful piece of Olympic spirit from the old peacock network. It's really all about the money. The right thing to do would have been to air it both live and tonight. Let's hope this doesn't continue as a trend over the next two weeks of the event's coverage.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comTime to Make Amends with Bernie
Tue, Jul 22 2008 05:10 PM
| Sports
Time for the New York Yankees to make amends and end the impasse with Bernie Williams. I don't care whose fault it is that they got to where they got, nor do I care what the reasons were. Bernie was a major contributor to the teams that won 4 world championships and always carried himself with dignity and class. He should be back with the organization in some capacity.
Bernie Williams
It's time to celebrate his fantastic Yankee career and remind fans what sets apart the franchise from others. It's all about the family. Bernie was an honorable and valuable part of the glory years. He was also one of the best players of his era during the 1990s and a clutch performer in the post season.
With a new Yankee Stadium on the way and the old stadium about to dissipate, the timing could not be better. Brian Cashman and the Steinbrenners need to take the first step. Feel free to leave a comment below if you agree or disagree.
Bernie Williams
It's time to celebrate his fantastic Yankee career and remind fans what sets apart the franchise from others. It's all about the family. Bernie was an honorable and valuable part of the glory years. He was also one of the best players of his era during the 1990s and a clutch performer in the post season.
With a new Yankee Stadium on the way and the old stadium about to dissipate, the timing could not be better. Brian Cashman and the Steinbrenners need to take the first step. Feel free to leave a comment below if you agree or disagree.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comThe 100-game mark
Sat, Jul 19 2008 01:59 PM
| Sports
The major league baseball season always seems to get really interesting at around the 100-game plateau shortly after the MLB All-Star game. The teams have settled into what will be (barring injury) their set batting lineups and pitching rotations, and you begin to get a a real sense as to who are the contenders and who are the pretenders.
Also around the 100-game mark, the July 31st trading deadline looms. The general managers must decide if they will trade for a key player or two to fill a glaring need that will allow them to better compete for a pennant, or whether they will stand pat with what they have.
Also around the 100-game mark, the July 31st trading deadline looms. The general managers must decide if they will trade for a key player or two to fill a glaring need that will allow them to better compete for a pennant, or whether they will stand pat with what they have.
Those that have fallen behind and are out of contention must decide if they are willing to swap some of their marketable players for future needs. It all makes for a lot of interesting prognostication and occasionally a potential blockbuster trade or two. It also makes for great baseball over the next two months!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comVote for David Wright and Jason Giambi
Mon, Jul 7 2008 10:45 AM
| Sports
How can you not have two of New York's most popular players play in old Yankee Stadium's final All-Star game?
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comMy Supposed Long, Lost Uncle Willie Montañez
Whenever I introduce myself to anyone over the age of 40 who also happens to be a local-area baseball fan, after they hear my last name, I am almost always asked if I'm related to the man. Maybe..... NOT. There are so many Montañez in many different towns in Puerto Rico, and there are so many Montañez descended from different countries (Mexico, Puerto Rico, Venezuela, etc.) that now reside in the U.S., that the odds are astronomical that we are even remotely related. Look in your local phone book under Montañez and you would be shocked at how may of us there are. Even if I was related, do you think I would tell you? :-)
Would I like to be related to him? Sure, from all accounts Willie Montañez was a good, productive major league baseball player and beloved by Philadelphia Phillies fans. Some dismissed him as a hot dog, but many enjoyed his slick, stylish game. The left-handed first-baseman and outfielder had a 14-year career. He hit 30 home runs his rookie year, hit over 100 RBIs one season and in other years led the National League in doubles and outfield assists.
Hey not many people can make it to the big leagues and have such a long career and good stats. Some would do anything to be able to. So let's toast and salute my distant relative Willie Montañez and his fine baseball exploits, wherever he is.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comFans Fist Fight in Philly
We watched the N.Y. Mets beat the Phillies 4 to 2 at Citizen's Bank Park in Philadelphia last night. There were several fans fighting in the stands and at one point in the ninth inning the game was delayed while police carted off several fans. Many New York fans travel the 2-3 hours to watch the Mets play in Philadelphia and they tend to get tangled up with the Phillies fans all the time.
I've been to about a dozen major league baseball stadiums across the country over the years and I think Philadelphia probably has the most unruly fans I've ever seen. Many of the Phillies fans
(I've decided to strike these words as someone correctly (and anonymously via comments) pointed out the fallacy of this statement. It is indeed a rash generalization on my part driven mostly by my anger at the mistreatment that my wife and I were subjected to at the stadium during the game).
They tend to drink beer unrelentingly during the game. They start off meek, but as the game progresses and they have had more to drink they get nasty and stupid. If their team is losing they get rude, bold and abrasive. My wife is a Mets fan and was wearing her N.Y. Mets shirt. This unfortunately made her a target and I had to exhibit a lot of self-control to keep from starting a fracas of my own. You must remember that this is the same city that is famous for booing Santa Claus during a pro football game a number of years ago. The Mets-Phillies rivalry is getting very intense. It's not quite yet like Bosox-Yanks, but it is getting there. I put up some photos from the game.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comYankee Stadium's Final Season
Daniel and I went to Yankee Stadium in the Bronx, NY to watch the Yanks and the Toronto Blue Jays play the second game of the 2008 season this week. This will be the final season for the hallowed stadium as a new one is being built directly across from the old one. The new Yankee Stadium is scheduled to be ready by opening day of next season in 2009. I wanted to make sure to see at least one final game at the stadium before they tear it down and I was able to obtain some really great seats!
It was a cold night and unfortunately the Yanks lost 5-2, but we did have some fun and got to see Alex Rodriguez hit a 2-run moon shot deep into the left-centerfield seats. I put up some good photos. Enjoy!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comNY Giants 17, New England 14
Mon, Feb 4 2008 01:48 AM
| Sports
Super Bowl XLII was the first Super Bowl that I can remember that was a lot of fun to watch. It doesn't hurt that a team from the New York area won the game against a team from the New England area! Of course, this isn't the NY Mets or NY Yankees beating the Boston Red Sox, but it will have to do for the time being.
The New England Patriots came to Arizona seeking to make history with a perfect 19-0 season. Instead, Eli Manning and the New York Giants produced an exciting upset that will be remembered for a long time.
Watching the commercials is usually the highlight of the night, as most of the games have been boring in the past, but this year most of the ads were pretty boring, while the game was exciting. There were one or two gems, though. Here's a link to view all of them. Enjoy!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comMets Trade for Santana
Wed, Jan 30 2008 08:24 AM
| Sports
As you may have heard, the Mets have agreed to a trade with the Minnesota Twins to acquire Johan Santana for four prospects, pending the left-hander working out an extension with New York. I like the move, as it gives the Mets a badly-needed morale boost after their devastating, season-ending free fall last year. Santana is a bona-fide star and a premium hurler and will help them immensely. As a fan that follows and roots for this team, I believe it's a very promising development.
However, I would caution though, that obtaining a frontline pitcher (even one as talented as Santana) in no way guarantees a World Series or even a playoff appearance, as there are too many factors at play. Throwing money at the biggest name out there isn’t exactly a recipe for a championship. See Yankees, New York, 1979-96, 2001-present for a vivid example.
In addition, this bit of good fortune does not excuse the pitiful record-setting collapse the team had at the end of last season. We saw too much playfulness and not enough discipline in my honest opinion from the 2007 team. There was a perceived and pervasive over-confidence and lack of leadership and character in the Mets clubhouse last year. Let's hope that there is a higher level of maturity in 2008 for this team and that last year's ills can be corrected. It's going to be a great season!
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comLate Season Baseball
Fri, Sep 14 2007 03:05 PM
| Sports
As the baseball season winds down and playoff participants are being determined, we get some serious match ups this weekend. The N.Y. Yankees are playing the Boston Red Sox and the N.Y. Mets are playing the Philadelphia Phillies in two make-or-break weekend three-game series. As of today, the second place Yanks trail Boston in the American League East by 5 1/2 games, but lead Detroit by 3 1/2 for the wild card spot. The Mets lead the National League East over the second-place Phillies by 6 1/2 games with 16 games remaining.
All this makes for dramatic and compelling baseball and my DVR will be in overdrive this weekend. I'm still hoping for a New York Subway Series in October for the championship and my wish is still looking pretty good so far.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comThe Better New York City Team?
Sun, May 20 2007 05:38 AM
| Sports
I've been watching the the first of the two regular season interleague Subway Series, and the Yankees are hurting and the Mets are flying high. So far early on this season if you compare the two New York teams it looks like the Mets own the city and are on their way to the playoffs and a possible World Series. However, I would take a wait before I declare anybody a winner here. Pitching is the key
The Yankees have had a lot of injuries to their pitching staff, and once both Roger Clemens and Phil Hughes (hamstring injury) return the pitching rotation would look like this:
- 1. Mussina
- 2. Wang
- 3. Pettite
- 4. Clemens
- 5. Hughes
That's a formidable staff of hurlers.
Although the hitting has been anemic lately, the Yanks still field an all-star team of hitters. Barring injury, Damon, Abreu, Cano, Matsui, etc. will all eventually begin hitting to their potential, and with Jeter, Posada and A-Rod already having good years, I can see the Yanks at least possibly still getting the wildcard. Also, if you remember, last year the Minnesota Twins caught the Detroit Tigers on the final day of the season to win the AL Central division after trailing by more than ten games throughout much of the early season.
So I would not rule out the possibility of the Yankees catching the high-flying Red Sox and still winning the division. Stranger things have happened. Remember, too, that George Steinbrenner and Brian Cashman will not hesitate to make a blockbuster trade to bolster their chances down the stretch if they feel they have a chance. Anything is possible. Should be quite interesting.
Jose Reyes of the Mets (shown stealing second)
is possibly the most exciting player in baseball.
Click To View
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comMy Nephew Vlad Tejeda
While in college my nephew helps produce and direct a show that covers high school sports in section 7 of the northeast area of the U.S referred to as the "north country". The show is called Sports Rap Live. My nephew will also graduate from college next week and he will soon be interviewing for a job he is pursuing at ESPN, too. I'll be attending the ceremony and I'll post some photos and videos of the event as soon as I get a chance. When I was a teenager I had aspirations of becoming a sportswriter, but life took me in other directions. I'm proud of my nephew and its nice to see a family member pursue their dreams.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comCold Night at the Park
Went to Citizens Bank Park in Philadelphia and watched the Mets beat the Phils 8-1. The wife and I were shivering the entire time as it was around 30 degrees and very windy! Moises Alou hit 2 home runs for the Mets.
Alou comes from a fine family of Major League baseball players. His father, Felipe, was a former player and recently also a team manager. Uncles Mateo and Jesus were also in the major leagues and at one time all three Alou brothers from the Dominican Republic played for the San Francisco Giants in the 1960s.
As I recall there was also one game where the three played the outfield at the same time! The Alous are baseball pioneers; they and Hall-of-Fame hurler Juan Marichal paved the way for the huge influx of Dominican baseball players that made their way into the sport in later years. I put up a slideshow of pictures from the game.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comA-Rod and The Yanks
Went to Yankees Stadium in the Bronx today and watched the Yankees lose to the Baltimore Orioles 6-4. I had great seats (thanks to a friend) and got some pretty amazing photos that are up on the web site. In the prior game on Saturday, Alex Rodriguez of the Yankees had hit a grand slam walk-off home run with 2 outs in the bottom of the ninth to win the game. In this game, he hit a 2-run homer in his first at bat in a losing cause.
A-Rod is currently on a hot streak. He has tremendous ability and is arguably already one of the best players to ever play the game. He is amassing amazing career statistics for his young age, and if he stays healthy, when he is done he could be the game's career home-run record holder.
It's all great stuff, but to truly be considered the best, A-Rod needs to win a championship. It's why he came to New York, and until he accomplishes it, he will continue to be known as just the guy with the biggest contract and making the most money.
He was cheered today, but he will continue to run hot and cold with the fans until he picks up that World Series ring. It's a lot to put on a guy, as baseball is a team game and pitching, defense, and execution of the fundamentals are what win ball games. One great player can only get a team so far and luck and timing play big roles, too. I know folks love to hate the Yankees, but I'm personally rooting for A-Rod.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comThe Exploited "Student-Athlete"
This month is college basketball's big tourney. "March Madness" is where the top college basketball teams face off to determine a national champion.
I like college basketball, as it focuses primarily on traditional team play and differs from the pros where the focus is mainly on the stars, glitz and individual play. I wonder though about all the players that get exploited by some of these big-time school athletic programs. They go to these schools for solely one purpose, to follow their dream of making it to the professional ranks.
However, only 1% of college basketball players ever make it into the NBA. Many are these young people are supposed "student-athletes" and get an opportunity to attend the country's top colleges, but these are revenue-producing athletic programs, so what happens is that the majority never actually get a college degree, never really learn anything as they are shuffled through an easy curriculum and classes set up just to allow them to get a pass so they can continue to play and feed the machine. A lot of these kids are black and come from poor backgrounds.
When it's all over their situations are no better and often worse than when they got sucked into this machine in the first place. So enjoy the "Final Four", but just a thought, maybe it's time to make some changes.
Subscribe to RobMontañez.comBaseball Season!
Thu, Mar 1 2007 12:14 PM
| Sports
So the annual major league baseball rite of spring training has begun in Arizona and Florida and I'm really excited. I'm a huge baseball fan and am looking forward to opening day in April.
I've been a long-time Mets and Yankees fan. Yes, weirdly, I actually like and root for both teams. I was originally a Yankee fan alone, but living in Queens and being so close to Shea Stadium and attending many of their games, I began to pull for the cross-town bums, too. You can imagine how torn I was back in 2000 when they played against each other in the World Series.
So now I live closer to Philadelphia, here in Southern New Jersey, but rest assured, I won't be changing allegiance to the Phillies any time soon. Let's Go Mets and Yankees!
I've been a long-time Mets
and Yankees fan. Yes, weirdly, I actually like and root for both teams. I was originally a Yankee fan alone, but living in Queens and being so close to Shea Stadium and attending many of their games, I began to pull for the cross-town bums, too. You can imagine how torn I was back in 2000 when they played against each other in the World Series. So now I live closer to Philadelphia, here in Southern New Jersey, but rest assured, I won't be changing allegiance to the Phillies any time soon. Let's Go Mets and Yankees!
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