spotlight

Heineman brothers star in Pac 12

Thu, 12 Apr 2012 19:06:29 +0100

Pacific Palisades brothers Tyler and Scott Heineman have been competitive as long as their parents can remember. But last week at UCLA's Jackie Robinson Stadium, that competition reached new, Division I heights.

Playing against each other in a meaningful baseball game for the first time in their lives, Tyler was catcher for UCLA and Scott played third base for the University of Oregon.

It was a rare yet welcome sight for father Steve, a veteran lieutenant for the Santa Monica Police Department, and mother Kathy, who is president of television for Bad Robot Productions. They were joined by a large contingent of family members and friends as No. 7-ranked UCLA lost two of the three games to No. 17 Oregon.

As Steve Heineman pointed out, it was a win-win for the Heineman family.

'It's been great for me,' Heineman said during Friday's 8-3 win by Oregon. 'People asked me who I was going to root for, and I said, 'No one. I can't lose.''

Tyler, 20, a 5-11, 205-pound junior, has established himself as a force for the Bruins, leading the team with a .400 batting average through 28 games with one home run and 18 RBI. Scott, who is 6-1 and 190, is hitting only .191 as he adapts to Division I pitching, but the freshman is fourth on the Ducks with 16 runs scored while providing stout defense at the hot corner.

Though they live nearly 1,000 miles apart, the brothers are in constant contact and always keeping tabs on one another.

'He's my biggest role model,' Scott said of Tyler. 'We talk after every game, not only about baseball but we kind of relate baseball to life too and talk about that and how everything is going.'

Added Tyler, who is a psychology major at UCLA, 'We're closer than most people know. It was a lot of fun just to be back with him this weekend. It's kind of surreal, playing against each other at the highest level in college.'

Still, growing up, they had their share of brother rivalry moments.

In 2007, Tyler was a junior at Windward High School and Scott was a freshman. However, Scott was ultimately looking to transfer to a school with a bigger baseball program. Their father recalled watching one of their fall league games from his customary spot in the outfield and witnessing something he had never seen in a baseball game before.

With Windward leading Malibu 4-1 in the seventh inning and Scott pitching for Windward, things started to unravel a bit. A couple of errors and a walk put Malibu in a position to win, and Tyler, who was catching, went out to the mound to talk to his brother.

Instead of a calming conversation about how to approach the next hitter, the brothers almost came to blows and had to be separated by the umpire. With Windward short on players, neither was ejected; Scott was moved to the outfield, and Windward ultimately won the game.

Steve Heineman now laughs when recalling that moment, especially at how both boys pleaded their side of the story as soon as they got home. 'I've never seen teammates, between the lines, about to fight,' he said with a chuckle.

Following his freshman season, Scott transferred to Crespi High School while Tyler remained at Windward. Oddly enough, Scott's decision to attend Oregon was spurred by Tyler's recruiting visit, when dad brought Scott along. Tyler had always hoped to play locally at UCLA, but Scott made an impression on the Oregon coaches and was impressed by the school.

Growing up, both brothers played in the Pacific Palisades Baseball Association, including one season on the same team, before shifting to the Santa Monica Little League.

Baseball was the obvious choice for Scott, who played varsity football during his one year at Windward High, but Tyler was somewhat torn between hockey and baseball when it came time to commit exclusively to one sport at age 14.

He was a star player for the Junior Kings team, leading them to three straight championship games and two titles. Baseball has proven to be a wise choice if not an easy one for Tyler, who has had the opportunity to catch future stars at UCLA such as Gerrit Cole and Trevor Bauer.

As Scott, 19, makes the transition from the high school level to college, Tyler continues to ascend on the radar of many scouts. He is eligible for the Major League Baseball draft in June and is currently undecided on whether he will turn pro when drafted.

Still, even as an older brother and an icon to Scott, he does not hesitate to consult his younger brother for advice.

'I ask him about certain approaches he has when he swings, certain drills that he does,' Tyler said. 'I try and help him out and he helps me out.' That certainly represents a different dynamic for Tyler and Scott than their youth, as Tyler admitted.

'I was very hard on him when he was younger,' he said, 'because he wasn't doing as well as he should be and it was making me look bad.'

Last weekend, everything looked pretty good for the Heineman family.

Michael Strahan reflects on storied career, storybook ending

Thu, 02 Feb 2012 08:37:14 +0100

I was fortunate enough to sit down for a few minutes with former All-Pro defensive end and future Hall of Famer Michael Strahan last weekend while covering the Palisades High homecoming football game. Strahan visited the team to give them an inspirational pre-game speech prior to their game against Hamilton High. The best moment came when Strahan pulled out his Super Bowl ring and passed it around the room. Now an analyst for Fox Sports’ NFL pre-game show and still one of the game’s most recognizable faces, Strahan reflected back on his stellar career, which spanned 15 seasons with the New York Giants and was capped by one of the greatest upsets in Super Bowl history. Like legends John Elway and Jerome Bettis before him, Strahan was able to ride off into the sunset the way most players only dream of.

DA: Do you still think about Super Bowl XLII every day?

MS: I don’t think about it every day. At some point in your career if you play long enough – I played 14 years without winning one, went and lost one to the Baltimore Ravens – you start to say to yourself, ‘I had a great career, it doesn’t matter’. But when you win it, you’re like, ‘Oh, forget that, it matters. This is great! This is phenomenal!’ So I am so appreciative of winning a ring and of all the guys that helped me get to that point and just help me be able to end my career like that. You definitely don’t do it by yourself. A lot of great players never won a ring, you can go through a lot of Hall of Famers. And then a lot of great players that I played with that never had a chance to win a ring, which makes me look back and go, ‘Why was I the one who was so fortunate to last long enough to win one with the Giants?’

DA: How much sweeter was winning a ring after having had so much personal success without having had the ultimate team success?

MS: I learned early on, I would go to Pro Bowls and do this and that, but when the guys who would win the Super Bowl would show up, you just sit there like, ‘Man, that’s the ultimate’. It’s not just about getting here and playing in an all-star game. There’s no fulfillment. So to win the ring gave me the ultimate fulfillment. When you look at it you go, everything happens for a reason.

DA: Looking back, do you think you were simply more motivated by not having won the big one? And how driven were you by some of the tough playoff losses you had prior to winning a championship?

MS: Would I have continued to play 15 years? I don’t know. I mean, I think I would’ve quit a lot of earlier, but I think it was in my cards that I just had to keep going. [The San Francisco playoff meltdown loss in 2002] bugs me more than anything. There are certain games that bug me more than anything. And you definitely think about the losses. You think about the things that you should’ve done that you didn’t. There’s still plays in the Super Bowl that we won where I’m going, ‘Why didn’t I do that?’ It still bugs me to this day.”

The Once-Proud Orioles

Tue, 03 May 2011 19:24:29 +0100

Gerald Seff, a lifelong Orioles fan, examines the downfall of the Baltimore Orioles after decades of prominence, and how the team can return to its glorious roots in the upcoming MLB Draft.

The Once-Proud Baltimore Orioles Franchise

By Gerald Seff

If this reporter had a dollar for every time he read “the once proud Baltimore Orioles franchise”, he could almost buy the team. For years that intolerable phrase has haunted the Orioles. This article seeks to provide some answers to the question: What happened to the Baltimore Orioles?

First, let me establish my credentials as a die-hard, committed and even impassioned follower of the Baltimore Orioles. My love affair (figuratively, of course) began in 1953 when, as a 10 year old, I attended my first game. The Orioles were then in the International League as the Triple A affiliate of the Philadelphia Phillies. The game I attended was at the old and long-departed Municipal Stadium which was in a state of rehabilitation. For years this monstrosity had served as the home of the minor league Orioles whose earlier park, known appropriately as Oriole Park, burned down in 1944. The International League Orioles had actually won the Little World Series (a name that survives to this day) in 1944. Not surprisingly any vestige of the old Oriole Park when up in flames. For the next 10 years the Orioles toiled in obscurity as a minor league affiliate.

Then in the fall of 1953 the owner of the St. Louis Browns, Bill Veeck, in dire financial straits decided to sell this now defunct team to Baltimore. The transfer of the St. Louis Browns marked the rebirth of the Major League Orioles. The last time Baltimore had a franchise in the Major Leagues was in 1901 when the team moved to New York to become the Highlanders. The latter eventually became known as a team, you might have heard of, the New York Yankees.

The return of Baltimore as an American League franchise was indeed a red letter day for Charm City. On April 15, 1954 the new Orioles were feted with a downtown parade, and the players and their manager, Jimmy Dykes, were cheered as they rode through a cold and persistent drizzle. The atmosphere was indeed electric, and it was followed by a successful Opening Day that could not be dampened by the weather. The O's won 3-1 behind the solid pitching of “Bullet” Bob Turley, and solo home runs by Clint Courtney and Vern Stephens. This reporter attended that memorable game with his father and younger brother. This experience reinforced my undying affection for the Orioles. That year the O's went on to a record of 54-100. Who cared? Baltimore was back in the majors.

The next five years were permeated with one losing season after another. The luster of returning to the American League was beginning to dissipate, but then a sudden change (after 5 years of repeated losing) occurred, beginning with the infusion of new and exciting players. The decade of the 1960's and 1970's were the crowning years of the Baltimore Orioles as Hall of Famers punctuated the roster beginning with the incomparable Brooks Robinson followed by the wondrous Jim Palmer, the Cincinnati transplant but true Oriole Frank Robinson, the feisty bantam roster manager Earl Weaver, and in the 1970's and 1980's switch-hitting first baseman Eddie Murray and the incomparable “Iron Man” Cal Ripken, Jr. Over these decades the Orioles won three World Series, and played in the Fall Classic a total of six times.

Sadly, the last time the Orioles played in and won a World Series was 1983. Since then the fortunes of the team and the franchise began to gradually but steadily decline until the debacle of 1988 when the O's tied the Major League record of 21 consecutive losses. In nearly the past three decades the deterioration of this “once proud franchise” was marked by frequent ownership changes, from Jerold Hoffberger to Edward Bennett Williams to Eli Jacobs and finally the current regime of Peter Angelos beginning in 1993. Fittingly, the team was rescued by Mr. Angelos, a long standing member of the Baltimore community, at an auction. Angelos' bid of $173 million for this “once proud franchise” was greeted in Baltimore with cheers. The diminutive owner, standing only 5'3”, was seen as a hero to a city that had endured the repeated threats of Edward Bennett Williams to move the team to Washington; the miserly nature of the nearly bankrupt Eli Jacobs; and the long shadow of Mayflower trucks moving the venerable Baltimore Colts by the unstable Robert Irsay in the darkness of a late March night in 1984. In spite of all this chaos that dominated the Baltimore sports scene, the state of Maryland (under the threat of a repeat of the Colts fiasco) was able to build in 1992 a new palace known as Oriole Park at Camden Yards.

What Happened to the “Once-proud Orioles”?

In searching for answers to the question, it is simple to say: Peter Angelos and his sons. Except for a few playoff years in the mid-to-late 1990's the O's have subsequently lost 13 consecutive years. The only team to do worse is the Pittsburgh Pirates with 17 losing seasons in a row. It is true that Mr. Angelos has been the one constant since 1998 when the streak (not to be confused with Cal Ripken's immortal consecutive-games streak) began. Angelos has had numerous managers and general managers, and the players once closely identified with the community were no more than numbers. Certainly the chaotic movement of key personnel, and the manifold insecurities of the owner were factors in the franchise's decline. Everything Angelos tried seemed to lead to one abysmal failure after another. The owner summarily fired a Hall of Fame announcer in Jon Miller and another Cooperstown honoree, Pat Gillick, during these tumultuous years. Hopefully, Angelos may have found the right mix to restore “Oriole Magic” with the hiring of Andy MacPhail and Buck Showalter in August 2010. Things are indeed looking better, but questions remain what happened to this storied franchise that gave us such marvelous players and six AL pennants in less than three decades.

Certainly Mr. Angelos cannot escape from the failings and incompetence of this team exhibited both on and off the field. But this is only the most obvious of reasons. Also profound is the near-complete failure of the team to draft any impact positional players. The Oriole scouting department since the advent of the amateur draft in 1965 has produced only a handful of top-flight hitters beginning with Bobby Grich, Don Baylor and Eddie Murray in the early and mid-1970's. Following this period the 1981 draft led to the selection of Cal Ripken, Jr., and then this was followed by the so-called dark ages until the choice of Brian Roberts in the late 1990's, and Nick Markakis in this current century. The draft is celebrating its 46^th season, and the Baltimore Orioles have selected the grand total of six truly solid even stellar hitters. From my perspective, this is more than just bad luck or negative karma.

As for pitchers, the O's have been better, but even in this domain they have not selected a true ace until Mike Flanagan in the 1970's and Mike Mussina in the 1990's. The O's have had their share of effective starting pitchers, but most predate the 1965 season. Palmer was in the early 1960's before the draft. What a sorry, sad and even tragic tale. The O's have had more than their share of phenoms and prospects, but it seemed that all of them suffered debilitating injuries either cutting short their careers or aborting them before they even started.

When you look at the aforementioned realities, it doesn’t take a Rhodes Scholar to realize that drafting and player development in the Oriole farm system has been a failure. In recent years because of the team's lack of ability to draft and develop players the team has generally been confined to the basement of the AL East. Losing begets losing, and pretty soon the “once proud franchise” was looked upon with disdain. No stability, no coherence, and no plan equals losing. But there are other factors contributing to this mess. The Orioles have never been proactive. They wait and they react to developments. Let me give one salient fact: the Orioles were, to be generous, slow in recognizing the importance of the international player market. While their competitors, particularly in their own division, picked up on the importance of this market by developing a scouting network in the Caribbean and ultimately in the far east, the Orioles seemed oblivious to this treasure trove of talent whether in the Dominican, Venezuela, Japan, or China. Even to this day, their competitors on searching this prime areas for players while the Orioles are only now awakening to this development.

The comparative weakness of the Orioles in the vital areas of scouting and player development was enhanced by their unwillingness to hire personnel to man these departments. Recent statistics show that the Toronto Blue Jays, an AL East competitor, have at least twice as many scouts in the United States as the Orioles. The other teams in the East have considerably more scouts then the O's, and this doesn’t even count the international market. The Orioles have only recently begun to recognize these hard facts, and have started to hire a handful of scouts. Again, reactive and not proactive, and the results have been painfully obvious not only at the Major League level, but throughout the entire farm system.

The 2011 Draft will be held in early June. How do the Orioles reverse their established pattern of failure from top to bottom in their farm system? It seems, from the perspective of an outsider, that the old baseball bromide voiced on numerous occasions by Andy MacPhail is that you develop the arms and buy the bats. Certainly in this offseason the Orioles have taken this into account when they traded for Mark Reynolds and signed Vladimir Guerrero, J. J. Hardy and Derek Lee. There were a few moves for pitching, namely relievers and one gamble on a starting pitcher with two hip surgeries.

Taking into account the above, what I would do is to draft pitcher after pitcher followed by more pitchers. Right-handed, left-handed, ambidextrous, you name it. For the O's it makes sense for Joe Jordan, the team's farm director, to take college pitchers before high school pitchers unless the latter is an up-and-coming Jim Palmer. College pitchers are generally more polished, experienced and closer to the majors. In this draft the Orioles will have an opportunity to select college flame-throwers Gerrit Cole and Trevor Bauer, both right-handers from UCLA. Also available will be Taylor Jungmann from the University of Texas and Daniel Huizen from the University of Virginia, a right-hander and left-hander, respectively. Draft-eligible high school hurlers include Dylan Bundy, whose brother Bobby is currently pitching in the Oriole farm system. Daniel Norris, a high school product from Tennessee, is a lefty with excellent stuff.

As for hitters, Anthony Rendon, third baseman for Rice University, is considered the best everyday prospect available for the draft. Other hitters including Bubba Starling and George Springer will be available when the O’s draft at No. 4. The O's, as noted,have a long history of failure in the draft, but in particular in choosing hitters.

Andy, follow your own guidelines: draft pitchers and sign free-agent hitters. For a team such as the O's, with their inherent disadvantages in scouting and player development, go for the arms. After all, look at the O's current rotation: A potential ace in Zach Britton, the team's top prospect who had an excellent Major League debut; Brian Matusz, on the DL for the next two weeks but considered one of the more talented young southpaws in the AL; flame-throwing Jake Arrieta, the team's home opener starter; and Brad Bergesen. All share one thing in common: they were drafted by the Orioles.

The great Oriole teams of the 1960's and 70’s had considerable fire power, but it was their pitching and defense that proved to be the cornerstone of their success. Just look at the current starting pitchers at the <ajor League level. Regardless, win or lose, the Orioles will always be first in my heart – even if they remain last in the AL East.

A look back: The 2007 NFL Draft

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 04:06:32 +0100

It's generally known that it isn't fair to judge a draft class for at least three seasons, so examining the 2007 haul seems appropriate now. The first round was one of the less impressive ones in recent years, with the most notable disappointment being first overall pick JaMarcus Russell, now completely out of football. Here is a graded analysis of that particular Draft:

*-Denotes Pro Bowl selection

No. Player Team Pos. School

1 JaMarcus Russell Oakland Raiders QB LSU

Analysis: Russell's biggest fan may now be Ryan Leaf, because the former Raiders' signal-caller may now be considered the biggest bust in league history. Russell, the 2006-07 Sugar Bowl MVP, was a gifted physical athlete, but his mental game never cut it in the NFL. The once-celebrated LSU star ended up starting just 31 games in three seasons in Oakland, and his numbers were awful across the board. Most porous was his final campaign in 2009, when he completed a paltry 48.8 percent of his passes for just 1,287 yards with just three TD passes and 11 interceptions. His 50.0 rating was enough to usher him out of town, where he promptly got into legal trouble for possessing codeine syrup without a prescription. He also recently was reported to be in danger of having his Oakland mansion foreclosed on for failing to make his mortgage payments. He has still yet to catch on with any other professional football teams in any capacity. Grade: F

2 Calvin Johnson* Detroit Lions WR Georgia Tech

Analysis: Another Matt Millen pick at receiver likely had long-suffering Lions fans cringing on Draft Day, but for a change this one worked out well. Johnson, known as “Megatron”, is a physical specimen who has more than lived up to his billing despite significant quarterback instability during his time in the Motor City. He has compiled 270 catches for 4,191 yards and 33 touchdowns, although his 2010 season may best be remembered for the one touchdown that was taken away from him on opening day. The only thing that keeps this from a complete A – and admittedly we're nitpicking here – is the fact that he has had minor durability issues, only playing in all 16 games once in four years (2008). Grade: A-

3 Joe Thomas* Cleveland Browns OT Wisconsin

Analysis: A rare stud in the Browns' recent decade of draft blunders, Thomas has been a model of consistency since day one. He has played in all 64 games and has been named to the Pro Bowl in each of his first four seasons, even though the Browns continue to shuffle quarterbacks and struggle offensively. However, 2007 was an exception, as Thomas played every offensive snap and Cleveland put up 402 points in nearly reaching the postseason. Perhaps even more impressively, Thomas helped Derek Anderson – yes, Derek Anderson – reach the Pro Bowl. Grade: A

4 Gaines Adams Tampa Bay Bucs DE Clemson

Analysis: Giving Adams any kind of negative grade is difficult given his untimely death. The young defensive end showed promise in his first two years with the Buccaneers, starting all 16 games in 2008 and tallying 6.5 sacks with a pair of interceptions and a touchdown. But his production drastically dipped in 2009 and after he fell out of favor with newcomer head coach Raheem Morris, Adams was shipped to Chicago. He ended that season with just one sack, but the Bears had hopes he would ultimately find his college form. Unfortunately, Adams passed away very early in 2010 from cardiac arrest due to an enlarged heart. He was remembered fondly by his former teammates and coaches as a good teammate and humble person, and football fans will be left wondering what could have been. Adams was just 26 at the time of his death. Grade: D+

5 Levi Brown Arizona Cardinals OT Penn State

Analysis: Brown, named a Pro Bowl alternate in 2009, has started all 32 games the past two seasons for Arizona and was a big part of an offense that became potent under a rejuvenated Kurt Warner. Arizona has struggled running the ball during Brown's tenure with him on the right side, and the offense took a major step back last year, but Brown has been able to be productive and, more importantly, stay on the field. Grade: B+

6 LaRon Landry Washington Redskins S LSU

Analysis: The downtrodden Redskins can't blame their recent struggles on their defense. Landry, though he missed seven games last season, has been a force in the secondary since he arrived in DC. He started 47 of 48 possible games his first three seasons and for his career has tallied four interceptions, five forced fumbles, 31 passes defensed, four sacks, and has averaged 84 tackles a year. His grade is a little lower because he has been susceptible to giving up big plays in the passing game, but he has proven himself to be a durable, hard-hitting safety. Grade: B

7 Adrian Peterson* Minnesota Vikings RB Oklahoma

Analysis: The Vikings desperately needed a quarterback when they arrived in this spot in 2007, but opted to go with the oft-injured yet immensely talented Peterson. Not only did they make the right move, but Peterson paid immediate dividends in taking a Tarvaris Jackson-led team to the cusp of the playoffs with 1,341 yards rushing and 12 touchdowns while garnering Offensive Rookie of the Year honors. In just four years, he has amassed four Pro Bowl berths (not to mention the game's MVP award in his rookie campaign), 5,782 yards, 52 touchdowns, and has missed just three games. Grade: A

8 Jamaal Anderson Atlanta Falcons DE Arkansas

Analysis: One would assume Atlanta fans would be happy to hear the name Jamaal Anderson around town again, but it quickly became evident this underachieving defensive end was nowhere near as popular as his former running back namesake. Amazingly Anderson is still on the Falcons' roster, and even more jaw-dropping is that he played in all 16 games a year ago, starting three. However, 4.5 sacks in four seasons despite playing in 60 games is not getting it done. In 2007 and 2009 he combined for one half-sack, and has forced just two fumbles in four seasons. The grade is not an F because Anderson is still with the team. Grade: D

9 Ted Ginn Jr. Miami Dolphins WR Ohio St.

Analysis: Ginn never quite made the cut as a wide receiver, though he did provide some excitement as a kick returner in his three seasons with the Dolphins. Miami traded him to San Francisco prior to the 2010 season after he was durable enough to appear in all 48 games in his first three years (35 starts), catching 128 passes for 1,664 yards and 5 TDs with the Fins. However, he never provided the consistent deep threat at receiver and seemed to fall out of favor with the coaching staff, making his expendable. The jury is still out whether he can be a go-to receiver with the 49ers. Grade: C

10 Amobi Okoye Houston Texans DT Louisville

Analysis: To saw Okoye was a raw talent when Houston selected him is an understatement. At 19, he was the youngest player ever drafted in the first round. Despite four unspectacular seasons in Houston, he remains with the club having tallied 11 sacks while missing just two games. He is surrounded by a stalwart defensive end in Mario Williams and another solid end in Antonio Smith, but hasn't fortified the interior rush the way the team had hoped. He had 5.5 sacks his rookie year, but just as many in the last three combined. He did start all 16 games a year ago, so the team obviously feels he still has good value even if he hasn't quite lived up to his potential. Grade: C+

11 Patrick Willis* San Francisco 49ers LB Ole Miss

Analysis: The 49ers have had their fair share of draft misses lately, but Willis isn't one of them. In fact, he has established himself as the best inside linebacker in the game in just four seasons in the Bay Area. A four-time Pro Bowl selection, Willis has averaged nearly 150 tackles per season while racking up eight forced fumbles, 28 passes defensed, and four interceptions with a pair of TDs. Willis is as fast and instinctive as any player in the game and is always around the ball. He has helped keep the 49ers competitive despite an anemic offense and constant coaching turmoil, a testament to his leadership in addition to his unbelievable skill set. Grade: A

12 Marshawn Lynch* Buffalo Bills RB California

Analysis: The enigmatic Lynch showed his potential plenty in Buffalo, earning a Pro Bowl berth in 2008. But his constant off-the-field issues eventually got him ushered out of town and all the way to Seattle, where he captivated the nation with his unbelievable game-clinching 67-yard touchdown run in the team's improbable playoff win against New Orleans this past January. In three-plus seasons with the Bills, Lynch missed just seven games but lost his starting job to Fred Jackson the past two years. He racked up over 1,000 yards in his first two campaigns in Western New York before a dismal 2009 campaign, and his fate was essentially sealed when the team selected C.J. Spiller in the first round of the 2010 Draft. However, Lynch always ran hard for consistently bad Bills teams, and had he stayed out of trouble likely would still be the number one back in Buffalo. Grade: B-

13 Adam Carriker St. Louis Rams DT Nebraska

Analysis: Like Lynch, Carriker probably had too much of an unfair burden in being asked to make an impact on a chronically bad team. In two seasons with the Rams, who went a combined 5-27 during that span, Carriker started 25 games yet notched just two sacks before missing all of 2009 due to injury. St. Louis eventually gave up on him and shipped him to Washington, where he fared marginally better in 2010 with 1.5 sacks in starting all 16 games. Grade: D

14 Darrelle Revis* New York Jets CB Pittsburgh

Analysis: You know a team has made a good pick in a cornerback when he earns the nickname “Revis Island”. The former Pitt star has emerged as perhaps the league's only true shutdown corner, and has been a model of consistency in playing in and starting 61 of the team's 64 games in his four seasons. During that span, he has garnered three Pro Bowl selections while tallying 14 interceptions and defensing 74 passes. He was held without a pick in 2010 due in part to missing three games with injury, a lengthy training camp holdout over a contract dispute, and the fact that teams have far too much respect for him to consistently throw in his direction. Grade: A

15 Lawrence Timmons Pittsburgh Steelers LB FSU

Analysis: Timmons has begun to emerge as a legitimate star after two moderately productive seasons to begin his Pittsburgh tenure. He has started 28 games the past two seasons while notching 10 sacks, two interceptions, and six forced fumbles as the Steelers defense has remained among the league's elite in leading the club to two AFC championships the past three years. Timmons doesn't quite get the pub some of his fellow defensive mates do, which bodes well for him and poorly for opposing offensive coordinators. A prototypical Steelers hard-nosed outside linebacker with great pass rushing abilities, Timmons figures to continue to thrive in Pittsburgh's star-studded defense. Grade: B+

16 Justin Harrell Green Bay Packers DT Tennessee

Analysis: Hard to give an F to a player who is still with the team, but Harrell has been so non-existent he might as well not be there at all. Injuries have limited him to just 14 games and two starts in four seasons, and he has not recorded a single sack or forced fumble when he has seen the field. He saw limited action in the 2010 opener then was gone again as B.J. Raji emerged as a star on the defensive line for the Super Bowl champs. It's hard to imagine Harrell ever getting a chance to succeed in a Packers uniform at this point. Grade: F

17 Jarvis Moss Denver Broncos DE Florida

Analysis: Moss is yet another oft-injured, underachieving player from this year's draft. In three-and-a-half unproductive seasons with the Broncos, he played just 34 games while registering a paltry 3.5 sacks. Oakland scooped him up, but he was no better there with just one sack in five games. He still has a chance to redeem himself there, but to date he's been nothing short of a bust. Grade: F

18 Leon Hall Cincinnati Bengals CB Michigan

Analysis: Hall has been one of the more unheralded corners in the league on a team that hasn't won much since he's been there. He has played in every game and started all but six in his four years in Cincinnati, and his numbers have been very solid: 18 interceptions, five forced fumbles, and 71 passes defensed. Even more to his credit is the fact that Cincinnati has continued to struggle with its pass rush, leaving Hall more vulnerable to giving up big plays. He hasn't come up with as many as some fans would like, but his solid and consistent production should be dually noted. Grade: B+

19 Michael Griffin* Tennessee Titans S Texas

Analysis: Like Hall, Griffin has yet to miss a game in the NFL, and almost eerily similar in that he has started all but seven of those games. Griffin has been the one constant on a young and ever-changing Tennessee defense, providing big plays and big hits year-in and year-out. He has averaged 79 tackles per season, collected 15 interceptions (one TD), and forced six fumbles from his safety position. Even more impressive, he has created a feared presence for receivers coming across the middle. Save for his occasional tendency to gamble for the big hit or big play and miss a tackle, the two-time Pro Bowler has been nothing short of outstanding. Grade: A-

20 Aaron Ross New York Giants CB Texas

Analysis: Ross' career got off to a hot start, when he sealed a Giants win over the cross-town rival Jets with a pick-six in just his fifth game. His first two seasons saw him play in 30 games (24 starts) with six interceptions and 17 passes defensed, but he has gone downhill since. Ross missed ¾ of the 2009 season due to injury and started just one of the 15 games he played in last year. In that span he has failed to record an interception. He has world-class speed, but his days in the Big Apple could be numbered if he can't stay healthy. Grade: C

21 Reggie Nelson Jacksonville Jaguars S Florida

Analysis: Missing games wasn't an issue for Nelson, rather it was his missing big plays and even tackles that led to his departure from Jacksonville. Now with Cincinnati, Nelson is trying to reinvent himself. He played in all 16 games in 2010 with six starts after a sub par three-year career in Jacksonville in which his play declined in a major way after his rookie year. In 2007 Nelson recorded five picks, but just two the next two years combined. He seemed to fall out of favor with Jack Del Rio and also seemed to be caught out of position too frequently. Though his 2007 season showed his promise, he has yet to recapture that magic. Grade: C-

22 Brady Quinn Cleveland Browns QB Notre Dame

Analysis: Maybe it should have been a telling sign when Quinn slipped from possibly the top pick all the way to 22. He never lived up to his billing in Cleveland, even though most quarterbacks have seen their careers die there. He rode the bench virtually all of 2007 before earning three starts in 2008, but that was cut short due to injury. He started nine games in 2009 before the injury bug bit again, but by then it was evident he wasn't the player the Browns envisioned. His 66.8 rating in three years wasn't helped by his lack of a big-play wide receiver, and management decided it wasn't in their best interest to keep him in their future plans. Quinn is currently the third-string quarterback in Denver behind Kyle Orton and Tim Tebow, which probably tells you everything you need to know about his career to this point. Grade: D

23 Dwayne Bowe* Kansas City Chiefs WR LSU

Analysis: Give Bowe a lot of credit, because his career was headed down the prototypical bust path until his unbelievable 2010 campaign. He had a terrific 2008 season despite the Chiefs going 2-14, but was suspended for violated the league's substance abuse policy to start 2009 and was not only unproductive but also unfit. Facing a critical offseason, Bowe got himself back into game shape and mended any broken fences with head coach Todd Haley to put up colossal numbers. He set a franchise record with 15 touchdown catches, with an astonishing 14 through 12 games, to go along with 72 catches for 1,162 yards. He appears ready to be the team's go-to receiver for years to come, but falls short of an A because of his down 2009 year and off-the-field issues. Grade: B+

24 Brandon Meriweather* New England Patriots S Miami

Analysis: Meriweather has played in all 64 games and cracked the starting lineup in his second season, but at times has been a bit of an enigma. He has been in the news recently for his alleged involvement in a Florida shooting, and drew negative publicity for a viciously dirty hit on Todd Heap in October. On the positive side for the Patriots, his numbers have been solid if not spectacular, as he has tallied 12 interceptions and five forced fumbles while defensing 27 passes. Whether or not he will be disciplined for his off-field actions remains to be seen, but to date he has been a steady force in New England's secondary and earned Pro Bowl selections in 2009 and 2010. Grade: B

25 Jon Beason* Carolina Panthers LB Miami

Analysis: Beason has done it all in his time with Carolina. A three-time Pro Bowl selection, he doesn't gain the notoriety of Patrick Willis or Ray Lewis, but he can hold his own with anyone at the position. Beason has averaged 135 tackles while starting every game over four seasons, while notching eight interceptions, three forced fumbles, 29 passes defensed, and four sacks. He is a playmaker who is always around the ball and has been a mainstay through what has turned into a couple of lean years in Charlotte. With great instincts and awareness, he will continue to be a building block for Ron Rivera's defense for years to come. Grade: A

26 Anthony Spencer Dallas Cowboys LB Purdue

Analysis: Spencer has emerged as one of the most underrated ends in the league. The versatile outside linebacker/defensive end had an off year in 2008, but he has averaged 50 tackles in his four years while adding 15.5 sacks, six forced fumbles, nine passes defensed, and an interception. He gets neglected sometimes because of the dominance on the defensive line of DeMarcus Ware and Jay Ratliff, which he has taken advantage of. He hasn't quite emerged into a dominant force but rather a consistent and steady one, starting all 32 games the past two seasons. Grade: B+

27 Robert Meachem New Orleans Saints WR Tennessee

Analysis: The paradox, if you will, of the Saints receiving corps is that a first-round pick in Meachem has been outshined by seventh-rounder Marques Colston and undrafted Lance Moore. Yet Meachem has held his own after he sat out his rookie year with a knee injury, catching 101 passes for 1,649 yards and 17 touchdowns in his Saints career. He has shown a knack for the big play and has played in all but two games since the start of 2008, yet has only started 17 of those games. Though he isn't Drew Brees' top target, he has at least proven to be a dependable one with playmaking ability. Saints fans will always remember his efforts against the Washington Redskins during the team's 2009 Super Bowl season, when he not only stripped Washington defensive back Kareem Moore and took it in for a touchdown but then caught the game-tying 53-yard touchdown with less than two minutes remaining to force overtime in a game the Saints ultimately won to remain undefeated. Grade: B

28 Joe Staley San Francisco 49ers OT Central Michigan

Analysis: The Patriots did their usual business of manipulating another team into trading up (San Francisco gave up their first-rounder in 2008, which ended up being 7^th overall), although Staley has proved his worth for the most part. He has missed last seven games in 2009 and 2010 but started the first 32 of his career. The 49ers offense has been porous at times, even though the team has had a revolving door at quarterback. Frank Gore's numbers have also been somewhat pedestrian, but given the state of the 49ers offense Staley's presence has been more of a plus than a minus. Grade: C+

29 Ben Grubbs Baltimore Ravens OG Auburn

Analysis: Grubbs has played in all 64 games, starting 60, as the Ravens offense has emerged into a much more respectable one with Joe Flacco at quarterback. Grubbs has been disciplined and effective, though he failed to start all 16 games for the first time in his career last season. Grade: B+

30 Craig “Buster” Davis San Diego Chargers WR LSU

Analysis: It's amazing that Davis is still on the team, although “Buster” is appropriate, because bust is exactly what he's been. Rarely seeing the field due to injury and ineffectiveness, he actually set career highs in 2010 with 21 catches for 259 yards and a touchdown, but only playing 12 games with one start the past three years isn't making the cut. On a team still in need of a big-play wide receiver, Davis hasn't lived up to his billing, and likely won't be back in San Diego next season. Grade: D-

31 Greg Olsen Chicago Bears TE Miami

Analysis: Olsen managed to be a big factor in the Mike Martz offense last year as the Bears reached the NFC Championship Game after it appeared he'd be on his way out. He has missed just two games in his career, and while his production dipped last year from 2009, he seems to have developed a rapport with Jay Cutler. Olsen's career numbers read 194 catches for 1,981 yards and 20 touchdowns, though his blocking hasn't exactly set the world on fire as Chicago continues to search for a consistent run game. Olsen is big and athletic and most importantly has stayed healthy, and his numbers should continue to be solid if not spectacular. Grade: B

32 Anthony Gonzalez Indianapolis Colts WR Ohio State

Analysis: Gonzalez was supposed to fill the void left in the slot by Brandon Stokley, but in addition to not fitting the bill of slot receiver, Gonzalez has also found it difficult to stay on the field. He has ended the past two years on injured reserve, a span in which he has seen the field just three times with five catches for 67 yards. He showed some promise in 2007-08, combining for 94 catches for 1,240 yards and seven scores, but with the emergence of Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon, Gonzalez's days in Indianapolis could be numbered. Grade: D-

Status update: 2010 MLB Draft first-rounders

Fri, 08 Apr 2011 15:49:04 +0100

As the 2011 Minor League Baseball season gets underway, here is a look at the first round of last year's Draft class and where they currently are playing. Courtesy of MLB.com.

WHERE THEY'RE AT

A list of the 2010 first-round Draft picks and what level they're starting at this season.

Player's name	Org	Starting point
Bryce Harper, OF	WAS	Hagerstown (A)
Jameson Taillon, RHP	PIT	Extended ST
Manny Machado, SS	BAL	Delmarva (A)
Christian Colon, SS	KC	NW Arkansas (AA)
Drew Pomeranz, LHP	CLE	Kinston (A Adv)
Barret Loux, RHP	TEX*	Myrtle Beach (A Adv)
Matt Harvey, RHP	NYM	St. Lucie (A Adv)
Delino DeShields, 2B	HOU	Lexington (A)
Karsten Whitson, RHP	SD	Did not sign
Michael Choice, OF	OAK	Stockton (A Adv)
Deck McGuire, RHP	TOR	Dunedin (A Adv)
Yasmani Grandal, C	CIN	Bakersfield (A Adv)
Chris Sale, LHP	CWS	MLB
Dylan Covey, RHP	MIL	Did not sign
Jake Skole, OF	TEX	Hickory (A)
Hayden Simpson, RHP	CHI	Peoria (A)
Josh Sale, OF	TB	Extended ST
Kaleb Cowart, 3B/RHP	LAA	Cedar Rapids
Mike Foltynewicz, RHP	HOU	Lexington (A)
Kolbrin Vitek, 2B/OF	BOS	Salem (A Adv)
Alex Wimmers, RHP	MIN	Fort Myers (A Adv)
Kellin Deglan, C	TEX	Hickory (A)
Christian Yelich, OF	FLA	Greensboro (A)
Gary Brown, OF	SF	San Jose (A Adv)
Zack Cox, 3B	STL	Palm Beach (A Adv)
Kyle Parker, OF	COL	Asheville (A)
Jesse Biddle, LHP	PHI	Lakewood (A)
Zach Lee, RHP	LAD	Great Lakes (A)
Cam Bedrosian, RHP	LAA	Extended ST
Chevez Clarke, OF	LAA	Extended ST
Justin O'Conner, C	TB	Extended ST
Cito Culver, SS	NYY	Extended ST

*Loux did not come to terms with the D-backs and signed as a free agent with the Rangers.

Broken Arrow HS coach Shannon Dobson talks Archie Bradley

Tue, 29 Mar 2011 02:37:10 +0100

DraftAmerica talks with Broken Arrow High School baseball coach Shannon Dobson about budding two-sport star Archie Bradley. The youngster has committed to play baseball at Oklahoma University in addition to quarterback for the football team. Dobson dishes on what fans can expect from Bradley, the grind of him playing two sports, and what he needs to do to continue his ascent as a pitcher.

DA: With Archie committing to play two sports, does it go without saying that you are biased on what you want him to ultimately pursue?

SD: I played at OU, so I'm happy he's going there. I think for him you'd like to see baseball more from a health standpoint.

DA: What is the general scouting report on Bradley?

SD: He's a prototype guy as far as pitcher, what you're looking for. He's about 6-4 ans 225 and he's gonna throw mid-90's and he's got a good second pitch in his breaking ball. If you go to the field and scout him, as far as pitching is concerned, he fits the bill as far as his physical features. He's a competitor and really loves to play, got a personality that's outgoing, he's not shy and he talks to people, and he's a good teammate. So he's a guy that has a lot going for him.

DA: What went into the two-sport decision?

SD: That was more of a personal decision, him and his parents. He's got really good parents, but I think it's more or less him liking to compete. I know at this level he can do this year round, but I'm not sure at what point that's going to change. Because that's hard to do, play Division I football and Division I baseball, and I know there are guys that have in the past. But he's one of those rare guys that has the capability of doing that. I don't know when that decision came, when he probably started getting recruited by big schools at the time as far as football interest. I think baseball is his first love, but I can't speak for him.

DA: How has his pitching developed and what does he need to do to continue to improve in college?

SD: He's got all the attributes, so for him it's probably going to be more cleaning up mechanics and learning to pitch in situational stuff and obviously getting command of more of his pitches. I think for him to keep moving and play at the college level and even pro level he's going to have to keep developing his changeup. That's an area that's gotta get better, because when you move on and you're pitching at that higher level it's important to have at least three pitches.

DA: Is it safe to say he has the mental toughness to handle the grind of playing both sports?

SD: I've been coaching for 20-25 years and been around good players, guys that were drafted, but just to see the attention a guy like [Archie] gets... we've averaged 40-50 scouts a game. And he's outgoing and has been able to handle that pressure. Talking to those guys hasn't intimidated him. He's still a high school kid, still young, but he's matured on the field and he's done a great job to this point.

DA: Is there concern about his arm in playing quarterback and also pitching?

SD: The way sports are now, everything is so year-round. I think the arm action isn't exactly the same with football and baseball. But [in high school] we talked about when he would get through with football giving him ample time to rest and not pushing him into baseball too quickly to let him rest physically and also mentally, because it is such a grind. And he didn't really have a lot of rest in the summer playing baseball down in Dallas, so he's been going at a pretty good pace and we just tried, before our season started, to give him some down time because those guys they need their rest, their bodies need to recover. So we tried to do that before our season.

DA: Any idea when he might figure out which sport he ultimately wants to pursue?

SD: To be able to play Division I in both sports is really kind of rare. He can probably go either way, or he could go both ways. It's probably going to be a personal decision on his part, but it's going to have a lot to do with the [MLB] Draft and what opportunities he's going to have there. So we should know more about that, what direction he might go, after the Draft in June.

Bring on the callups; keep an eye on Hellickson

Wed, 01 Sep 2010 20:06:21 +0100

This is the time when all 30 teams try and take a glimpse into the crystal ball that is their September call-up list. For the contenders it's a chance to have their youngsters make an immediate impact, while the non-contenders simply are figuring out which players will be ready for next year and which ones won't.

The Yankees have such a deep roster already they don't need to expect much from their callups, but the Rays are a different story. Classic overachievers, this is when they need some of those players to step up and make an impact. One in particular, 2005 fourth-round pick Jeremy Hellickson, could be a difference-maker.

3-0 with a 1.35 ERA in four starts in his first stint, Hellickson will be moved into the bullpen for the remainder of the season. With some experience under his belt already, he could really be beneficial to the club down the stretch.

And of course a Chris Sale update. On this the first day rosters expand, Sale, already having earned his promotion, picked up his first major-league save in a critical comeback win for the White Sox in Cleveland. The more we see of this kid, the more impressive he is. He hasn't shown any signs of hesitation being a rookie in his first year of pro ball.

Who will be next from the 2010 class to make it? Sale seems to be a major exception to the rule, but based on his stellar performance thus far, maybe teams shouldn't hesitate to let their bonus babies make the quick jump to the big leagues.

University of Miami baseball coach Jim Morris discusses Reds' first-round pick Yasmani Grandal

Fri, 20 Aug 2010 18:16:57 +0100

University of Miami baseball coach Jim Morris recently spoke with DA about his former star catcher Yasmani Grandal. The switch-hitting backstop was drafted 12^th overall by the Cincinnati Reds in this year's MLB Draft.

DA: What was it like to coach a player as talented as Yasmani?

JM: When I first saw him play, I remember saying this guy's outstanding, and he'll probably never go to college because he's too good. Because he could really catch and throw, and when I saw him he really hit well that day being a switch-hitter. A prototype guy – a stocky, strong, switch-hitting catcher that can catch and throw, and that's exactly what they're looking for in the big leagues, and of course we are too. He's a guy that's very motivated and focused, that works hard everyday. He's very goal-oriented to play in the big leagues, and to get that done, whatever time he needed to spend, he was going to spend.

DA: What was that recruiting pitch like, knowing you had a guy who already had major-league skills, to get him to play for your program?

JM: I mean we try to recruit the best players, particularly from South Florida, and hope that they'll go to school. And he's one of those guys that did go to school versus sign pro, and we lost five of them last night that didn't go to school, so it works either way. But it was great to have him here. He worked hard, he really improved his value as a player. I think probably the biggest thing he improved on was his hitting while he was here. He's always been known as a really good catch and throw guy.

DA: So you kind of had an idea he would be a first-round talent from day one?

JM: I don't want to say that. If I was that smart, [the Reds] would have taken him in the first round and saved a lot of money. But I just thought he was a pretty special player when I saw him play in high school.

DA: What particular aspects of his hitting did he improve on?

JM: I think he improved both ways. He hit with power and average by the time he left, and you can look at his statistics and see that he made a lot of improvements while he was here.

DA: What was the experience like for you and him on draft day?

JM: We were right in the middle of the Texas A&M game [during in-state regionals]. We had a rain delay, and he'd actually found out before I did. He was out on the field so I went and saw him out on the field and congratulated him. It had to be a pretty emotional time for him to get drafted in the first round... It was actually right before the game started. It was supposed to be in the middle of the game, but we had a rain delay.

DA: And obviously his family was all there to celebrate with him?

JM: Of course. He's a great kid that came over from Cuba, and when you leave there... you leave everything. And you come here to start a new life, and you bring whatever you have on your back to come and start over. So it's a big process for him, his family, and everybody. It's exciting to watch someone that's worked so hard and is so goal-oriented and is really a good player and a good kid.

DA: What is the Reds organization getting in Yasmani Grandal?

JM: The real deal is that when you can catch and throw and hit and you're a catcher like him, then you've got a chance to move pretty quick [up the ranks of the system]. There's no question that when they took him in the first round that they expected him to move quick.

DA: I assume you will be keeping up with him and keeping in touch?

JM: Sure. It's great for both of us, for him and the program, to have such great success.

For more on the Reds, check out:

http://www.redreporter.com/

http://www.redsminorleagues.com

A look back: The 2005 NFL Draft

Thu, 14 Apr 2011 02:50:36 +0100

The 2005 NFL Draft didn't have the sizzle that others in recent memory have. The top 10 picks have only produced three Pro Bowlers, and none of those players own superstar status. In fact, it was the later rounds that produced some of the more notable names. There were even five undrafted players that went on to appear in Pro Bowls. Needless to say, 2005 wasn't exactly the year of the scout. A look back now at the first round and grades on how those players and teams have fared in the five seasons since.

Pick, Player, Team, Pos., School

1 Alex Smith, San Francisco 49ers, QB, Utah

Analysis: At least Smith is still with the 49ers, something that didn't seem likely just a year ago at this time. Despite his 16-24 career record, head coach Mike Singletary still believes Smith is the guy, even more so than another former number one disappointment, David Carr. Injuries and a lack of stability on the 49ers coaching staff have hampered Smith's development, which might help explain his 37-43 TD-INT ratio. Credit the organization for sticking by him. 2010 could be his last hurrah in the Bay Area for a San Francisco club that is on the rise in the NFC West. Grade: C-

2 Ronnie Brown, Miami Dolphins, RB, Auburn

Analysis: Brown has played 16 games in a season just once in five seasons, in 2008 when he earned his lone Pro Bowl berth. When healthy, Brown has given the Dolphins the hard-nosed, every-down runner that fits their offensive system – even with Ricky Williams in the mix. But having ended two of the last three campaigns on injured reserve make Williams' presence all the more necessary. Brown averages 4.4 yards per carry and has scored 31 touchdowns thus far. Pretty good, but a tad sub par for a second overall pick. Grade: B-

3 Braylon Edwards, Cleveland Browns, WR, Michigan

Analysis: The often enigmatic Edwards ultimately wore out his welcome in Cleveland and was shipped off the Jets early last season. He amassed 1,000 yards just once in four full seasons with the Browns, in 2007 when he reached his only Pro Bowl. He seems to have found his groove in New York, providing Mark Sanchez a go-to target for a team that reached the AFC Championship Game last year. But the Browns never got the big-time playmaker they sought when they selected Edwards, just another in a long line of misses by the Mistake by the Lake Browns. Grade: C

4 Cedric Benson, Chicago Bears, RB, Texas

Analysis: Much like Edwards, Benson eventually became more of a headache than a success for the team that drafted him. Unlike Edwards, however, it was Benson's off-the-field antics that rubbed the Bears organization the wrong way. He failed to outperform Thomas Jones, even when the team reached the Super Bowl after the 2006 season. 674 yards was his high-water mark in three years in the Windy City, but the Bengals saw something in Benson and indeed he resurrected his career there. Last season, Benson rushed for 1,251 yards in just 13 games, including a career-high 189 against his former team. Grade: C-

5 Carnell Williams, Tampa Bay, Buccaneers, RB, Auburn

Analysis: “Cadillac” has given the Bucs quite a ride when healthy, but that has been a novelty. He played just 10 games from 2007-08 after suffering a devastating knee injury. Since his stellar, 1,178-yard rookie campaign, Williams has struggled to produce consistently, in part because the Bucs have turned to several other backs to help contribute. His 3.8-yard per carry average won't wow anyone, but the team is holding out hope that a healthy Williams will return to his 2005 form. Grade: C

6 Adam Jones, Tennessee Titans, CB, West Virginia

Analysis: “Pacman” may be the most well-known name in the draft, but for all the wrong reasons. He lasted just two seasons in Tennessee before the NFL suspended him for the 2007 campaign. He earned a brief stint with the Cowboys before spending the 2009 season out of football. Numerous off-the-field issues, all of which have been well-documented, have completely tarnished Jones' image. He may get another shot with the Bengals, but that is of little consolation to the Titans at this point. As former GM Floyd Reese said, Jones may have been solid when he played, but he was “nothing but a disaster off the field.” This might help explain why Reese no longer has a job in Tennessee. Grade: F

7 Troy Williamson, Minnesota Vikings, WR, South Carolina

Analysis: The Vikings did hit big on a receiver they drafted from South Carolina this decade, only it wasn't Williamson. Sidney Rice did not enter the fold until 2007, two years after Williamson's sub par tenure in Minnesota began. Following the 07 campaign, Williamson found his career in Minnesota over and ended up in Jacksonville. He has 87 catches in five years, 79 of those coming in purple. He often dropped key passes and it soon became evident he wasn't going to pan out with the Vikings. Though the Jaguars are still holding out hope he can be a productive receiver, the Vikings have long realized they made an error in judgment on his talents. Grade: D

8 Antrel Rolle, Arizona Cardinals, CB, Miami (FL)

Analysis: Rolle took a year to get going, but he blossomed in 2006 and has been one of the league's steadier performers since. He has missed just one game in the last four years, and was converted to free safety in 2008 when the Cardinals went to their first Super Bowl. Showing a knack for the big play, the Giants signed Rolle to a 5-year, $37 million contract this offseason, leaving a hole in Arizona's secondary. For an organization that had struggled to hit big on draft picks, Rolle represents a number of key young players that helped transform the franchise. Grade: B+

9 Carlos Rogers, Washington Redskins, CB, Auburn

Analysis: Solid if not spectacular would best describe Rogers' five years in Washington. He has started 29 of 32 games played the last two years, but did not register an interception in 2009. Unfortunately the Redskins have been far from a top-tier team during his time there, so his lack of big plays haven't singled him out. Grade: C+

10 Mike Williams, Detroit Lions, WR, USC

Analysis: It's hard to believe Williams has a chance to make the Seattle Seahawks roster this season given how big of a bust he is. After failing to earn draft eligibility and missing the 2004 season at USC, Williams failed miserably in Detroit (sound familiar?). He hasn't caught a pass in the NFL since 2007, and has just 44 receptions in his career. He never seemed to be in proper shape, and eventually even the Lions had enough. Grade: F

11 DeMarcus Ware, Dallas Cowboys, LB, Troy

Analysis: Bill Parcells and the Cowboys brass actually took some heat for this pick when Shawne Merriman's career got off to a fast start. The Cowboys were perceived to have taken the wrong pass rusher, but things have gone just swimmingly for Ware and the Cowboys in recent years. Ware has recorded double-digit sacks every year since 2006, and led the league with a franchise-record 20 sacks in 2008. He has proved to not only be a great pass-rusher but also a game-changer. Grade: A

12 Shawne Merriman, San Diego Chargers, LB, Maryland

Analysis: Merriman was once the toast of the NFL after two remarkable seasons to start his career, but even in a 17-sack campaign in 2006 there was controversy when he was suspended four games for steroid use. After another steady season in 2007, Merriman lost all of 2008 with a serious knee injury and hardly regained his Pro Bowl form in 2009 with a paltry 4 sacks. There have been rumors the Bolts are trying to move him, as he has been unhappy in addition to struggling on the field. Still, given what he provided the team his first three seasons, this was one of general manager A.J. Smith's finest selections. Grade: A-

13 Jammal Brown, New Orleans Saints, OT, Oklahoma

Analysis: It's a shame that Brown missed the Saints' Super Bowl season with a sports hernia, because he had been a steady performer during his tenure with New Orleans. He started 58 games the previous four years, and helped protect Drew Brees' blind side admirably. Jermon Bushrod's performance last year helped force Brown out of the door, and now he is trying to revive his career in Washington. Still, a strong pick by the Saints. Grade: B+

14 Thomas Davis, Carolina Panthers, LB, Georgia

Analysis: Davis has seemingly gotten better each year, but has a long road to recovery after missing most of 2009 and now possibly all of 2010 with a torn ACL. A tackling machine with a knack for the big play, Davis has probably been the Panthers' most consistent defensive player since 2006, when he came a full-time starter. 11 sacks and eight fumbles in four-plus years shows that the Panthers made the right selection in Davis. Grade: B+

15 Derrick Johnson, Kansas City Chiefs, LB, Texas

Analysis: Johnson hit a low point last year when he lost his starting job, but has still given Chiefs fans reason for hope during his five-year tenure. He finished 2009 with a bang, returning two interceptions for touchdowns in helping the team to its first win in Denver since 2000. His career numbers are relatively strong (13 sacks, 6 interceptions, 11 forced fumbles), but he has been inconsistent at times. Still, a stabilizing force for a team that desperately needs one. Grade: B

16 Travis Johnson, Houston Texans, DT, Florida State

Analysis: Texans fans will likely remember Johnson most for taunting an unconscious Trent Green in a 2007 game, because his production was minimal at best during four years with the team. Two sacks and no forced fumbles with limited tackles will vouch for that, and Johnson now serves as a backup in San Diego. The Texans have long craved a dominant force on their interior defensive line, and Johnson failed to be that force. Grade: D-

17 David Pollack, Cincinnati Bengals, LB, Georgia

Analysis: A promising rookie campaign in 2005 had Bengals fans excited for Pollack's future, but his career was quickly derailed two games into the 2006 season with a severe neck injury. Pollack was never able to recover and left fans wondering what if. A bad grade here despite the fact that right off the bat it looked like the team made a big splash with Pollack. Grade: F

18 Erasmus James, Minnesota Vikings, DE, Wisconsin

Analysis: A big swing and a miss by Minnesota, as James started just 11 games in three extremely disappointing years in purple. He logged a paltry five sacks before he was let go, then failed to catch on in Washington and has not played in an NFL game since 2008. His failures forced the Vikings' hand in trading for All-Pro Jared Allen to give them the pass rusher they coveted, but it cost them two first-round draft picks. Grade: F

19 Alex Barron, St. Louis Rams, OT, Florida State

Analysis: Don't let the fact that Barron has started all but one game the last four years fool you. He was unable to fill Orlando Pace's shoes at left tackle, and in the last three years the Rams' offense has become one of the worst in the league as the franchise has won just six games during that span. Barron was dealt to Dallas this offseason for linebacker Bobby Carpenter. The feeling was that Barron was not only penalty prone but that the effort was not always there. A major underachiever thus far. Grade: D

20 Marcus Spears, Dallas Cowboys, DE, LSU

Analysis: Spears has played all 80 games in his five seasons in Big D, but the production has not always been there. He has recorded just 8 sacks and 3 forced fumbles despite starting 71 of those games, so suffice it to say Spears has been far outperformed by fellow first-rounder DeMarcus Ware. But considering Spears is still on the roster and still has a chance to become the player the Cowboys envisioned, they still get a moderate mark. Grade: C

21 Matt Jones, Jacksonville Jaguars, WR, Arkansas

Analysis: Jones is looking to rebuild his career and his life in Cincinnati (sounds repetitive doesn't it?) after spending 2009 out of football following an arrest and a release from the Jags, the team that drafted him. Envisioned as a hybrid receiver-QB type, Jones never really made an impact in either facet. He did catch 166 passes for 2,153 yards and 15 touchdowns from 2005-08, but he rarely came up with big games or clutch plays when needed. He also failed to crack the starting lineup until 2008, when he made 10 starts (15 career). His off-the-field troubles forced him out the door and left the Jaguars with a hole at the receiver position. Grade: D

22 Mark Clayton, Baltimore Ravens, WR, Oklahoma

Analysis: Clayton seems to epitomize the first round of the 2005 draft – at least among the players still with the clubs that selected them. Despite staying healthy and playing in all but four of the team's games since he was drafted, he hasn't emerged as the go-to guy the team thought he would be, and has now fallen to fourth on the team's depth chart. His career numbers are fair – 234 receptions for 3,116 yards and 14 touchdowns (2 rushing). But Joe Flacco and the Ravens needed reinforcements as Clayton has failed to be the playmaker they had hoped. Grade: C+

23 Fabian Washington, Oakland Raiders, CB, Nebraska

Analysis: It's the Raiders, so give Washington some credit for putting up three decent seasons there before ending up in Baltimore. Despite being an afterthought and overshadowed by All-Pro CB Nnamdi Asomugha, Washington tallied 5 interceptions in 2006-07, including 4 during the team's dismal 2-14 season of '06. He has logged 22 starts in two seasons since leaving the Black Hole, so he is steady if unspectacular. But the Raiders' moves rarely make sense, like letting go a steady performer amidst a slew of disappointments on the current roster. Grade: C

24 Aaron Rodgers, Green Bay Packers, QB, California

Analysis: It took four years to finally grade this pick, but Rodgers has paid off in a big way and then some. When Brett Favre's annual drama queen act became unbearable, the Packers entrusted their faith and future in Rodgers. In return, Rodgers became the first passer in NFL history to throw for 4,000 yards or more in his first two seasons as a starter while leading the Packers to 11 wins last year. Developing an excellent rapport with his receivers, Rodgers is already considered one of the top quarterbacks in the game with room still to improve. Though he rode the bench for three seasons behind Favre, Rodgers' selection was well worth the wait. Grade: A

25 Jason Campbell, Washington Redskins, QB, Auburn

Analysis: Drafting a quarterback in the first round can be tricky – if you're the Redskins, that is. Campbell quickly fell out of favor, in part because he never had stability in his offensive system or coaching staff. His stats (namely a 55-38 TD-INT ratio) were respectable, but fans chastised him for his 20-32 record as a starter. He still feels he has something to prove, even if it is in Oakland. Given the plight of the Redskins franchise, Campbell performed admirably, at least up until last season's 4-12 debacle. Grade: C

26 Chris Spencer, Seattle Seahawks, C, Mississippi

Analysis: Spencer lost his job at center towards the end of last year, and finished the previous season on injured reserve. But he is still around, and figures to give Seattle a boost if he can stay healthy as he did when the team was last successful (he started 29 of 32 games in 06-07 when the Seahawks won their division both years). With Walter Jones gone and a new coaching regime in place, 2010 could be a make-or-break year for Spencer. Grade: B-

27 Roddy White, Atlanta Falcons, WR, UAB

Analysis: White was more of an afterthought during the Michael Vick era in Atlanta, catching just 59 passes in his first two seasons. When he became a full-time starter in 2007, White exploded onto the scene, even during a dismal 4-12 campaign in which his primary quarterbacks were Joey Harrington and Byron Leftwich. 2008-09 were Pro Bowl years for White, and from 07-09 he has averaged 85 catches for 1,246 and 8 touchdowns. A big, physical target, White is now considered a top-flight if not vastly underrated receiver. He and Matt Ryan have a chance to take the Falcons far in 2010. Grade: A

28 Luis Castillo, San Diego Chargers, DE, Northwestern

Analysis: Castillo's draft stock took a hit when he admitted in a letter to all 32 teams that he used performance-enhancing drugs in college, but Bolts GM A.J. Smith decided to take a chance on him anyway. He hasn't been a dominant force, but a steady performer nonetheless. He notched 7 of his 16.5 career sacks in just 10 games in 2006, a stat that left fans craving more from him. Instead, his numbers have declined somewhat. But given his ability to stay relatively healthy and be a good locker room presence, the Chargers shouldn't be knocked too hard for this one. Grade: B-

29 Marlin Jackson, Indianapolis Colts, CB, Michigan

Analysis: Colts fans will always remember Jackson for his game-clinching interception of Tom Brady in the 2006 AFC Championship game to send the Colts to Super Bowl XLI, but after performing steadily from 2005-07, Jackson has barely been able to find the field. After tearing his ACL 7 games into the 2008 season, Jackson played just 4 more last year before reinjuring the knee and ultimately losing his roster spot. He tore up his knee again before ever getting to play a down for Philadelphia, another setback in what has become a sad saga for a once-promising player. But the Colts got plenty from Jackson in those first three years, so as usual, a good job of evaluating talent by GM Bill Polian. Grade: B-

30 Heath Miller, Pittsburgh Steelers, TE, Virginia

Analysis: It is no coincidence the Steelers won the Super Bowl in Miller's first year. He gave their offense a much-needed threat in the middle of the field, and has not stopped producing since arriving in Pittsburgh. He has missed just two games in five years while recording 244 catches for 2,721 yards and 27 touchdowns, numbers that won't put him in the Hall of Fame but certainly at the top of this class. The 2009 Pro Bowler's role will be even more critical in 2010 following the loss of Santonio Holmes. Grade: A-

31 Mike Patterson, Philadelphia Eagles, DT, USC

Analysis: Patterson has shown flashes of brilliance during an otherwise-steady five years with Philly, although some might argue that by USC standards he has been average in the NFL. He has yet to miss a game with the Eagles, and has made 70 of 80 possible starts (all but one of those non-starts came his rookie year). From the interior line, Patterson has tallied 11 sacks, 5 fumble recoveries, and an interception to go along with 196 tackles. The Eagles have also been among the top teams in rush defense during Patterson's time there, so it would only be fair to give the Eagles a solid mark here. Grade: B

32 Logan Mankins, New England Patriots, OG, Fresno State

Analysis: Not surprisingly, the Patriots hit the jackpot on a player that was hardly a household name before he was drafted. Even at an unglamorous position like guard, Mankins has been a shining star. He has started every game in five years, helping protect Tom Brady (he was only sacked 16 times last season) while paving the way for an offensive that at times has been historically good, like in 2007 when they set a league-record by scoring 589 points. Currently in the middle of a potentially-nasty contract dispute, Mankins is one of the few Patriots players that may be difficult to replace. Grade: A

Other notable players drafted in 2005: Frank Gore, 49ers RB (3^rd round, 65^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowler who rushed for 1,695 yards in 2006; Darren Sproles, Chargers RB/KR (4^th round, 130^th overall), 4 career touchdowns on returns; Trent Cole, Eagles DE (5^th round, 146^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowl pick who has notched 47 sacks in five seasons; Jay Ratliff, Cowboys DT (7^th round, 224^th overall), 2-time Pro Bowler with 21 career sacks and 10 fumble recoveries from the interior line; Joshua Cribbs, Browns WR/KR (undrafted), 2007 and 09 Pro Bowler who has emerged as one of the game's most exciting players; Cribbs has scored 10 touchdowns on returns in just five seasons while also adding 908 yards from scrimmage.

Bishop Blanchet HS coach George Monica discusses No. 17 pick Josh Sale in a Q&A

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 18:48:40 +0100

DraftAmerica recently spoke with Bishop Blanchet HS coach George Monica about No. 17 overall pick Josh Sale, the outfielder taken by the Tampa Bay Rays.

DA: What's it been like to coach Josh and see him grow in front of your eyes like that?

GM: He was a starter for us starting with his freshman year, so we got him for four years and he's got about every school hitting record, both career and single season – or pretty darn close anyway. He worked very very hard, [and] it was tremendous focus for him. He got up every day and went to hit down by where he lives, in addition to all the other practices and stuff. And he's worked very very hard on his physical conditioning, his nutrition, you name it. He really earned that selection.

DA: Did you know you had a special player right from the get-go in Josh?

GM: I think we knew that he was going to be a really good player, but I don't think, at least in my mind, that you can ever project out somebody's actually going to be a first-round draft pick. We've been fortunate to have a lot of good players come through Blanchet, many college players, some players that were picked in the draft and alike, but to think that you're ever going to have a kid that's actually going to go that high, it's almost an impossible situation is some ways.

DA: Was it a big surprise for him to go in the first round?

GM: Well with all the attention that he got last year and this year, and the scouts talking to me and different people from different organizations, including Tampa Bay, that I guess we kind of knew he was going to go in the first round, and so it was a little bit anti-climactic, if that's ever possible when somebody goes in the first round. But we kind of did know that was going to take place.

DA: Still, it must have been a huge thrill for you and Josh.

GM: Oh absolutely. As I said earlier, you can hardly believe that [it was] one of your players it happened to.

DA: What are the Rays getting in Josh Sale?

GM: I think what they're getting is a kid that is really, really dedicated to becoming a great player. I don't think there's any reason for him to stop what's been his tremendous work ethic and dedication to being a great baseball player at this point. So I don't think that they're ever going to have a problem with him [not] being motivated to play.

DA: Is there anything in particular you think he might need to work on in order to get to that next level and excel in the major leagues?

GM: I think there's an awful lot of good players that get picked in the draft. And then it's a whole new ballgame trying to move through that system, and with all of the distractions, the travel, and all those things that take place with a young kid – and he is just a kid, he's only 18 years old, and I think [people] kind of forget that – and just like kids make adjustments when they go off to college, with dorm life and all that kind of stuff, he's going to have to make a heck of an adjustment here as well.

For more on Josh and the latest Rays information, check out dockoftherays.com