Here are my predictions for the Elite 8 of the 2019 NCAA Tournament. The East Regional Final will be held at Capital One Arena in Washington DC. The South Regional Final will be held at the KFC Yum! Center in Louisville, Kentucky. The Midwest Regional Final will be held at the Sprint Center in Kansas City, Missouri. The West Regional Final will be held at the Honda Center in Anaheim, California.
Saturday, March 30th
(W3) Texas Tech (29-5) vs (W1) Gonzaga (33-3)- 6:09, TBS: This is going to be some game in Anaheim. The Red Raiders are coming off a domination over the Michigan Wolverines. The Bulldogs are coming off a solid performance over the Florida State Seminoles. The Red Raiders have a stud in Jarrett Culver and some solid supporting cast guys like Davide Moretti and Brandone Francis. The Bulldogs are loaded with Rui Hachimura, Killian Tillie, Zach Norwell, Brandon Clarke, and Filip Petrušev. I really like these two coaches in Chris Beard of the Red Raiders and Mark Few of the Bulldogs as they both have done great jobs this season. Tough call, but Red Raiders are a team that I believe can get the job done led by Culver to get to the Final Four.
Prediction: Texas Tech
(S3) Purdue (26-9) vs (S1) Virginia (32-3)- 8:49, TBS: This is going to be an interesting game in Louisville. The Boiler Makers are coming off a thrilling win in overtime over the Tennessee Volunteers in a game which the Vols came back to force overtime. The Cavaliers are coming off a scare and survive over the Oregon Ducks. The Boiler Makers obviously have Carsen Edwards, but they have had guys like Ryan Cline and Matt Haarms step up. The Cavaliers have a great core led by D'Andre Hunter, Kyle Guy, Ty Jerome, and Jack Salt. I was going to initially take the Boiler Makers here, but I think they put all they can handle in that Sweet 16 performance so give me the Cavs and Tony Bennett to get to his first Final Four.
Prediction: Virginia
Sunday, March 31st
(MW5) Auburn (29-9) vs (MW2) Kentucky (30-6)- 2:20, CBS: Here we have an SEC Showdown. The Tigers are coming off a dominant win over the North Carolina Tar Heels. The Wildcats are coming off a thrilling win over the Houston Cougars. The Tigers are playing very well right now led by Chuma Okeke, Bryce Brown, and Jared Harper. The Wildcats have PJ Washington back now to go with Keldon Johnson and Tyler Herro. The Tigers feel like a team that's just hot at the right time and I like them to advance.
Prediction: Auburn
(E2) Michigan State (31-6) vs (E1) Duke (32-5)- 5:05, CBS: The Spartans are coming off a domination of a performance over the LSU Tigers. The Blue Devils are coming off another close call, this time over the Virginia Tech Hokies. The Spartans are quietly playing great led by Cassius Winston, Aaron Henry, Matt McQuaid, and Nick Ward. The Blue Devils are loaded of course, led by Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, Cam Reddish, and Tre Jones and Reddish didn't play in the last game. Reddish or not, Mike Krzyzewski has Zion and Tom Izzo doesn't. Duke to the Final Four for the first time in four years in what should be the best of the four games.
Prediction: Duke
Saturday, March 30, 2019
Tuesday, March 26, 2019
2019 NFL Mock Draft: Ninth Edition
Here is the ninth edition of my 2019 NFL Mock Draft.
1. Arizona Cardinals- Kyler Murray, Quarterback, Oklahoma: A month ago, I thought that the Murray to the Cardinals talk was fake news. After Steve Keim came out and said "Josh Rosen is our quarterback...... for now" convinced me that Murray is a near lock to go to Arizona and Josh Rosen is trade bait. Murray has a lot of respect from Kliff Kingsbury and that is the obvious connection that is making the media think this is a distinct possibility.
2. San Francisco 49ers- Nick Bosa, Defensive End, Ohio State: This is the dream scenario for the Niners. Getting the best player in the draft is always a win for whomever drafts the player. Bosa would be an upgrade over any of the pass rushers currently on the Niners roster and he would have an immediate impact like Myles Garrett did a few years back with the Browns.
3. New York Jets- Josh Allen, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: Allen is the one player that was a huge riser from the summer until now. The Jets have a need for immediate impact talent (and versatility) on the defensive side of the ball and Allen would be a great fit. A trade down is not out of the question, either because the Jets still have other needs to address.
4. Oakland Raiders- Quinnen Williams, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: Williams is someone that the Silver And Black will gladly take and Jon Gruden loves players like Williams. He's physical and he can flat out tackle. I see a poor mans Aaron Donald here. It would be a huge win for Gruden and Mike Maycock if Arizona takes Murray and/or if someone trades up to 2 or 3 to take Dwayne Haskins or someone else.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Devin White, Inside Linebacker, LSU: White is someone that is a fast riser among defensive players in the draft. I wouldn't be shocked if Oakland picks him at 4. The Bucs have a need at the linebacker position and White is someone that's a dynamic tackling machine that could be a future Pro-bowler.
6. New York Giants- Dwayne Haskins, Quarterback, Ohio State: This is a marriage that has to happen. Eli Manning is not good anymore and is five years past his prime. Haskins is someone that there was rumors that the Giants had zero interest in him, but than reports circled that they had dinner with him after the combine and they had key staff at his Pro Day. He is the best quarterback in this draft and has the makings of a leader. Exactly what the Giants are looking for.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars- Ed Oliver, Defensive Tackle, Houston: Oliver was once projected a top-five pick and his stock has dropped dramatically, so there's a chance Oliver is a steal at this point. The Jaguars let go of Malik Jackson and Oliver is a nice younger and cheaper replacement. There are many options here whether it's trading down, taking an offensive lineman, or an offensive play maker for Nick Foles.
8. Detroit Lions- Greedy Williams, Cornerback, LSU: This is another marriage that makes a lot of sense. Williams is the best corner in the draft and the Lions could use another athlete in the secondary to go with Darius Slay. Matt Patricia would like a player of Williams's caliber. A pass rusher could be in play here although they signed ex-Patriot Trey Flowers, but Williams would not be a bad selection either.
9. Buffalo Bills- Jonah Williams, Offensive Tackle, Alabama: The Bills biggest need is to get protection for Josh Allen. They did sign guys in free agency like Mitch Morse, but snagging the best offensive linemen in the draft is a huge win for this team going forward and it could help Allen develop into the franchise quarterback they thought they were getting when they traded up a year ago.
10. Denver Broncos- Drew Lock, Quarterback, Missouri: There is some chatter that the Broncos might take or trade up for a quarterback, but I can see John Elway taking a chance here despite despite other speculation that he won't take a quarterback. Joe Flacco is only under contract for one season and Lock can learn from him.
11. Cincinnati Bengals- Devin Bush, Inside Linebacker, Michigan: Bush is someone who's stock is rising of late who has first round talent. The Bengals don't have Vontaze Burfict anymore, so a need emerges at the position and they are a team that can use youth on their defense. There's some speculation that they are looking to find Andy Dalton's replacement, but I'm not buying it.
12. Green Bay Packers- T.J. Hockenson, Tight End, Iowa: Jimmy Graham isn't the same player he once was in New Orleans so the Packers should snag a fast rising tight end in Hockenson. He's a good blocker and has drawn comparisons to George Kittle of the 49ers. It also wouldn't surprise me if they (and probably is the wiser choice to) take a defensive player.
13. Miami Dolphins- Montez Sweat, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Mississippi State: Miami is a team that is all in on Tank For Tua after it decided to trade Ryan Tannehill away and sign Ryan Fitzpatrick to a 2-year contract. Sweat is someone that's fast rising and is very athletic and fast and is someone the Dolphins can build their front seven around.
14. Atlanta Falcons- Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: Wilkins is the first of three Clemson defensive lineman to be drafted. The Falcons did franchise tag Gardy Jarrett instead of letting him test the open market, but selecting a defensive lineman here would bolster their depth at that area and Wilkins can start for Dan Quinn immediately if need be.
15. Washington Redskins- Daniel Jones, Quarterback, Duke: With Alex Smith's future uncertain, the Skins take a chance with a young quarterback in Jones. He has drawn comparisons to Eli Manning and also has participated in the Manning Passing Academy. His stock has risen with a good showing in the Senior Bowl and the combine it sure seems like he's a sure fire first round pick.
16. Carolina Panthers- Jawaan Taylor, Offensive Tackle, Florida: Taylor is someone that has risen fast after a strong combine performance. He is someone that excels in the run game and that would help Christian McCaffrey find holes. Cam Newton needs protection badly because he's a quarterback that is an injury risk as of right now.
17. New York Giants (from Cleveland Browns)- Brian Burns, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Florida State: There's a chance the Giants trade this and the sixth pick for the franchise quarterback they desperately need. Burns is someone that is rising with speed, but his weakness is that he isn't great against the run. The Giants have plenty of options here, but if the quarterback magically falls to them at six, defense would be a wise play here.
18. Minnesota Vikings- Cody Ford, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Vikings are a team that's close to being a contender and they must address their biggest weakness- their offensive line. Ford is someone that is coming off a strong final season in college and would be a welcomed addition to a Vikings offensive line, that needs youth and reinforcements.
19. Tennessee Titans- Noah Fant, Tight End, Iowa: The Titans are a team that is in dire need for offensive fire-power around Marcus Mariota. Fant is someone that could end up being the best tight end in the draft and with Delaney Walker nearing the end of his prime, Fant could be a solid replacement down the road. Going defense with this pick would not be a bad idea either.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers- Byron Murphy, Cornerback, Washington: Murphy falling this far would be somewhat of a steal for the Steelers. Yes, they absolutely need a wide receiver with the departure of Antonio Brown, but this wouldn't be a bad option considering their secondary isn't great either.
21. Seattle Seahawks- Nassir Adderley, Safety, Delaware: Adderley is someone that is fast rising in this draft and Seattle has the obvious need now with Earl Thomas departing. He's someone that Pete Carroll would like with his physicality and size.
22. Baltimore Ravens- DK Metclaf, Wide Receiver, Ole Miss: The Ravens have more needs in terms of offensive playmakers more than any team that made the playoffs last season. Metclaf would be a nice weapon for Lamar Jackson, who needs a downfield threat guy to help his development. A defensive player is also not out of the question here, either.
23. Houston Texans- Andre Dillard, Offensive Tackle, Washington State: No team needs an offensive line improvement in the league more than the Texans. Dillard is someone rising due to a strong combine showing at the combine. He's the best blocking tackle in the draft and that would be a treat for DeShaun Watson, who was sacked 62 (!!!!) times last year.
24. Oakland Raiders (from Chicago Bears)- Josh Jacobs, Running Back, Alabama: The Raiders use their second first rounder for a position of need with Marshawn Lynch and Doug Martin not being long term solutions. Jacobs is the best running back in the draft and I can see Maycock and Gruden taking him here before the Eagles go on the clock.
25. Philadelphia Eagles- Jerry Tillery, Defensive Tackle, Notre Dame: The Eagles are a team that's made some changes on the defensive front this offseason. I can see them taking a depth piece here with Tillery, who is versatile. There is a chance they reach for a safety here or if Adams falls here, they'd take him.
26. Indianapolis Colts- AJ Brown, Wide Receiver, Ole Miss: The Colts suddenly look like a team that has a look of a contender. A defensive player is the wiser choice but Andrew Luck needs another reliable wideout other than TY Hilton. I'm not sold on Devin Funchess being a reliable #2 receiver and Brown is someone that was overshadowed by DK Metclaf in college and could thrive with Andrew Luck.
27. Oakland Raiders (from Dallas Cowboys)- Rock Ya-Sin, Cornerback, Temple: This is a major reach for the Raiders final first round pick. Ya-Sin is a fast riser who is very physical and someone Gruden would really like to pair next to Gareon Conley in the secondary.
28. Los Angeles Chargers- Hakeem Butler, Wide Receiver, Iowa State: Butler is someone who's a fast riser on peoples boards. The Chargers need to replace the departed Tyrell Williams and Butler wouldn't be a bad option to go with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
29. Kansas City Chiefs- Chris Lindstrom, Guard, Boston College: Lindstrom is the best guard in the draft and the Chiefs wouldn't be a bad spot for him. He's great against the run and that would give holes for Damien Williams to run. Yes, the Chiefs should go defense here with this pick, but this isn't the worst option for them.
30. Green Bay Packers (from New Orleans Saints)- Dionte Thompson, Safety, Alabama: Thompson would be a mega steal dropping this far. Green Bay did add Adrian Amos at the safety position, but they can draft Thompson to give themselves depth in an area where they can use it.
31. Los Angeles Rams- Dexter Lawrence, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: The second Clemson defensive lineman taken goes to a team that is loaded. Lawrence can step in and replace Ndamukong Suh immediately on that defensive line. Imagine him on the same line as Aaron Donald? Lawrence reminds me of Fletcher Cox and Sean McVay would like that.
32. New England Patriots- Clelin Ferrell, Defensive End, Clemson: The final Clemson defensive lineman taken and Bill Belichick would gladly take him. Ferrell can start immediately and replace Trey Flowers on that pass rush.
1. Arizona Cardinals- Kyler Murray, Quarterback, Oklahoma: A month ago, I thought that the Murray to the Cardinals talk was fake news. After Steve Keim came out and said "Josh Rosen is our quarterback...... for now" convinced me that Murray is a near lock to go to Arizona and Josh Rosen is trade bait. Murray has a lot of respect from Kliff Kingsbury and that is the obvious connection that is making the media think this is a distinct possibility.
2. San Francisco 49ers- Nick Bosa, Defensive End, Ohio State: This is the dream scenario for the Niners. Getting the best player in the draft is always a win for whomever drafts the player. Bosa would be an upgrade over any of the pass rushers currently on the Niners roster and he would have an immediate impact like Myles Garrett did a few years back with the Browns.
3. New York Jets- Josh Allen, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Kentucky: Allen is the one player that was a huge riser from the summer until now. The Jets have a need for immediate impact talent (and versatility) on the defensive side of the ball and Allen would be a great fit. A trade down is not out of the question, either because the Jets still have other needs to address.
4. Oakland Raiders- Quinnen Williams, Defensive Tackle, Alabama: Williams is someone that the Silver And Black will gladly take and Jon Gruden loves players like Williams. He's physical and he can flat out tackle. I see a poor mans Aaron Donald here. It would be a huge win for Gruden and Mike Maycock if Arizona takes Murray and/or if someone trades up to 2 or 3 to take Dwayne Haskins or someone else.
5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Devin White, Inside Linebacker, LSU: White is someone that is a fast riser among defensive players in the draft. I wouldn't be shocked if Oakland picks him at 4. The Bucs have a need at the linebacker position and White is someone that's a dynamic tackling machine that could be a future Pro-bowler.
6. New York Giants- Dwayne Haskins, Quarterback, Ohio State: This is a marriage that has to happen. Eli Manning is not good anymore and is five years past his prime. Haskins is someone that there was rumors that the Giants had zero interest in him, but than reports circled that they had dinner with him after the combine and they had key staff at his Pro Day. He is the best quarterback in this draft and has the makings of a leader. Exactly what the Giants are looking for.
7. Jacksonville Jaguars- Ed Oliver, Defensive Tackle, Houston: Oliver was once projected a top-five pick and his stock has dropped dramatically, so there's a chance Oliver is a steal at this point. The Jaguars let go of Malik Jackson and Oliver is a nice younger and cheaper replacement. There are many options here whether it's trading down, taking an offensive lineman, or an offensive play maker for Nick Foles.
8. Detroit Lions- Greedy Williams, Cornerback, LSU: This is another marriage that makes a lot of sense. Williams is the best corner in the draft and the Lions could use another athlete in the secondary to go with Darius Slay. Matt Patricia would like a player of Williams's caliber. A pass rusher could be in play here although they signed ex-Patriot Trey Flowers, but Williams would not be a bad selection either.
9. Buffalo Bills- Jonah Williams, Offensive Tackle, Alabama: The Bills biggest need is to get protection for Josh Allen. They did sign guys in free agency like Mitch Morse, but snagging the best offensive linemen in the draft is a huge win for this team going forward and it could help Allen develop into the franchise quarterback they thought they were getting when they traded up a year ago.
10. Denver Broncos- Drew Lock, Quarterback, Missouri: There is some chatter that the Broncos might take or trade up for a quarterback, but I can see John Elway taking a chance here despite despite other speculation that he won't take a quarterback. Joe Flacco is only under contract for one season and Lock can learn from him.
11. Cincinnati Bengals- Devin Bush, Inside Linebacker, Michigan: Bush is someone who's stock is rising of late who has first round talent. The Bengals don't have Vontaze Burfict anymore, so a need emerges at the position and they are a team that can use youth on their defense. There's some speculation that they are looking to find Andy Dalton's replacement, but I'm not buying it.
12. Green Bay Packers- T.J. Hockenson, Tight End, Iowa: Jimmy Graham isn't the same player he once was in New Orleans so the Packers should snag a fast rising tight end in Hockenson. He's a good blocker and has drawn comparisons to George Kittle of the 49ers. It also wouldn't surprise me if they (and probably is the wiser choice to) take a defensive player.
13. Miami Dolphins- Montez Sweat, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Mississippi State: Miami is a team that is all in on Tank For Tua after it decided to trade Ryan Tannehill away and sign Ryan Fitzpatrick to a 2-year contract. Sweat is someone that's fast rising and is very athletic and fast and is someone the Dolphins can build their front seven around.
14. Atlanta Falcons- Christian Wilkins, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: Wilkins is the first of three Clemson defensive lineman to be drafted. The Falcons did franchise tag Gardy Jarrett instead of letting him test the open market, but selecting a defensive lineman here would bolster their depth at that area and Wilkins can start for Dan Quinn immediately if need be.
15. Washington Redskins- Daniel Jones, Quarterback, Duke: With Alex Smith's future uncertain, the Skins take a chance with a young quarterback in Jones. He has drawn comparisons to Eli Manning and also has participated in the Manning Passing Academy. His stock has risen with a good showing in the Senior Bowl and the combine it sure seems like he's a sure fire first round pick.
16. Carolina Panthers- Jawaan Taylor, Offensive Tackle, Florida: Taylor is someone that has risen fast after a strong combine performance. He is someone that excels in the run game and that would help Christian McCaffrey find holes. Cam Newton needs protection badly because he's a quarterback that is an injury risk as of right now.
17. New York Giants (from Cleveland Browns)- Brian Burns, Defensive End/Outside Linebacker, Florida State: There's a chance the Giants trade this and the sixth pick for the franchise quarterback they desperately need. Burns is someone that is rising with speed, but his weakness is that he isn't great against the run. The Giants have plenty of options here, but if the quarterback magically falls to them at six, defense would be a wise play here.
18. Minnesota Vikings- Cody Ford, Offensive Tackle, Oklahoma: The Vikings are a team that's close to being a contender and they must address their biggest weakness- their offensive line. Ford is someone that is coming off a strong final season in college and would be a welcomed addition to a Vikings offensive line, that needs youth and reinforcements.
19. Tennessee Titans- Noah Fant, Tight End, Iowa: The Titans are a team that is in dire need for offensive fire-power around Marcus Mariota. Fant is someone that could end up being the best tight end in the draft and with Delaney Walker nearing the end of his prime, Fant could be a solid replacement down the road. Going defense with this pick would not be a bad idea either.
20. Pittsburgh Steelers- Byron Murphy, Cornerback, Washington: Murphy falling this far would be somewhat of a steal for the Steelers. Yes, they absolutely need a wide receiver with the departure of Antonio Brown, but this wouldn't be a bad option considering their secondary isn't great either.
21. Seattle Seahawks- Nassir Adderley, Safety, Delaware: Adderley is someone that is fast rising in this draft and Seattle has the obvious need now with Earl Thomas departing. He's someone that Pete Carroll would like with his physicality and size.
22. Baltimore Ravens- DK Metclaf, Wide Receiver, Ole Miss: The Ravens have more needs in terms of offensive playmakers more than any team that made the playoffs last season. Metclaf would be a nice weapon for Lamar Jackson, who needs a downfield threat guy to help his development. A defensive player is also not out of the question here, either.
23. Houston Texans- Andre Dillard, Offensive Tackle, Washington State: No team needs an offensive line improvement in the league more than the Texans. Dillard is someone rising due to a strong combine showing at the combine. He's the best blocking tackle in the draft and that would be a treat for DeShaun Watson, who was sacked 62 (!!!!) times last year.
24. Oakland Raiders (from Chicago Bears)- Josh Jacobs, Running Back, Alabama: The Raiders use their second first rounder for a position of need with Marshawn Lynch and Doug Martin not being long term solutions. Jacobs is the best running back in the draft and I can see Maycock and Gruden taking him here before the Eagles go on the clock.
25. Philadelphia Eagles- Jerry Tillery, Defensive Tackle, Notre Dame: The Eagles are a team that's made some changes on the defensive front this offseason. I can see them taking a depth piece here with Tillery, who is versatile. There is a chance they reach for a safety here or if Adams falls here, they'd take him.
26. Indianapolis Colts- AJ Brown, Wide Receiver, Ole Miss: The Colts suddenly look like a team that has a look of a contender. A defensive player is the wiser choice but Andrew Luck needs another reliable wideout other than TY Hilton. I'm not sold on Devin Funchess being a reliable #2 receiver and Brown is someone that was overshadowed by DK Metclaf in college and could thrive with Andrew Luck.
27. Oakland Raiders (from Dallas Cowboys)- Rock Ya-Sin, Cornerback, Temple: This is a major reach for the Raiders final first round pick. Ya-Sin is a fast riser who is very physical and someone Gruden would really like to pair next to Gareon Conley in the secondary.
28. Los Angeles Chargers- Hakeem Butler, Wide Receiver, Iowa State: Butler is someone who's a fast riser on peoples boards. The Chargers need to replace the departed Tyrell Williams and Butler wouldn't be a bad option to go with Keenan Allen and Mike Williams.
29. Kansas City Chiefs- Chris Lindstrom, Guard, Boston College: Lindstrom is the best guard in the draft and the Chiefs wouldn't be a bad spot for him. He's great against the run and that would give holes for Damien Williams to run. Yes, the Chiefs should go defense here with this pick, but this isn't the worst option for them.
30. Green Bay Packers (from New Orleans Saints)- Dionte Thompson, Safety, Alabama: Thompson would be a mega steal dropping this far. Green Bay did add Adrian Amos at the safety position, but they can draft Thompson to give themselves depth in an area where they can use it.
31. Los Angeles Rams- Dexter Lawrence, Defensive Tackle, Clemson: The second Clemson defensive lineman taken goes to a team that is loaded. Lawrence can step in and replace Ndamukong Suh immediately on that defensive line. Imagine him on the same line as Aaron Donald? Lawrence reminds me of Fletcher Cox and Sean McVay would like that.
32. New England Patriots- Clelin Ferrell, Defensive End, Clemson: The final Clemson defensive lineman taken and Bill Belichick would gladly take him. Ferrell can start immediately and replace Trey Flowers on that pass rush.
Saturday, March 23, 2019
2019 NCAA Tournament: Round of 32 Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Round of 32 of the 2019 NCAA Tournament. The Saturday Second Round games will be held at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut, the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, and the Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Sunday Second Round games will be held at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina, the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the SAP Center in San Jose, California.
Saturday, March 23rd
(E6) Maryland (23-10) vs (E3) LSU (27-6)- 12:10, CBS: This is a fascinating Second Round game. The Terps survived the upset bid by Belmont and are solid led by Bruno Fernando and Jaylen Smith in that front-court. The Tigers got by Yale and they have a very good team led by Tremont Waters and Naz Reid. The issue is that the Tigers don't have coach Will Wade and at some point distractions will get to this team as the Terps take advantage and move on to the second weekend.
Prediction: Maryland
(MW7) Wofford (30-4) vs (MW2) Kentucky (28-6)- 2:40, CBS: This game is very intriguing. The Terriers had to pull away late against a solid Seton Hall team and Fletcher Magee was amazing. The Wildcats cruised against Abilene Christian despite the PJ Washington injury. Washington or not, the Wildcats are more talented than the Terriers and Keldon Johnson will help lead the way to the second weekend in a close one.
Prediction: Kentucky
(W10) Florida (20-15) vs (W2) Michigan (27-8)- 5:15, CBS: This should be a interesting game. The Gators got by a Nevada team that didn't shoot well in that game. The Wolverines cruised over a decent Montana team. Jalen Hudson, KeVaughn Allen, and Chase Johnson are good players, but the Wolverines have better players with Jordan Poole, Charles Matthews, Zavier Simpson, and Iggy Brazdeikis and they'll advance.
Prediction: Michigan
(W12) Murray State (28-4) vs (W4) Florida State (28-6)- 6:10, TNT: The Racers are coming off a fantastic win over Marquette courtesy of a triple-double by Ja Morant. The Seminoles are coming off a close win over Vermont and Mfiondu Kabengele was outstanding. The Seminoles don't have Phil Cofer and his absence was showed in their close win, so give me Morant and the Racers to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Murray State
(W9) Baylor (20-12) vs (W1) Gonzaga (31-3)- 7:10, TBS: The Bears are coming off a very good win over Syracuse, in which the Orange were missing a key player in Frank Howard. The Bulldogs are coming off a predictable domination over Fairleigh Dickinson. It's amazing the Bears have got this far without Tristian Clark, but the Zags are so much better led by their core of Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke, Zach Norvell, and Filip Petrušev.
Prediction: Gonzaga
(E10) Minnesota (22-13) vs (E2) Michigan State (29-6)- 7:45, CBS: It's rare to see a conference matchup in the second round but here we are. The Golden Gophers are coming off a great shooting performance in their win over Louisville. The Spartans are coming off a somewhat scare against Bradley. Jordan Murphy is someone that's going to keep the Gophs in this game, but Sparty has more talent led by Cassius Winston and Nick Ward as they'll advance to their first Sweet 16 in four years.
Prediction: Michigan State
(S6) Villanova (26-9) vs (S3) Purdue (24-9)- 8:40, TNT: This should be a fun game between two solid teams. The Wildcats are coming off a close win over Saint Mary's. The Boiler Makers are coming off a dominant win over Old Dominion. Phil Booth and Eric Paschall will keep 'Nova in the game, but give me Carsen Edwards and the Boiler Makers to advance.
Prediction: Purdue
(W5) Auburn (27-9) vs (W4) Kansas (26-9)- 9:40, TBS: Here's a battle of the FBI! The Tigers are coming off a close call against New Mexico State in which they nearly gave away the game. The Jayhawks are coming off a dominant win over Northeastern. This is a hard call but give me Bryce Brown and Jared Harper to lead the way for the Tigers to go to the Sweet 16 over a Jayhawks team that's very good with Dedric Lawson, Devon Dotson, and Quentin Grimes, but is missing key players in Udoka Azubuike and LeGerald Vick.
Prediction: Auburn
Sunday, March 24th
(S10) Iowa (23-11) vs (S2) Tennessee (30-5)- 12:10, CBS: The Hawkeyes are coming off a nice win over Cincinnati and they overcame a double digit second half to do so. The Volunteers are coming off a scare against Colgate and they wound up surviving in the end. Luka Garza was great in the Hawkeyes comeback, but I think that the Vols had their wake up call and Grant Williams, Admiral Schofield, and Kyle Alexander will lead the way to a blowout to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Tennessee
(MW9) Washington (27-8) vs (MW1) North Carolina (28-6)- 2:40, CBS: The Huskies are coming off a great win over Utah State. The Tar Heels were down to sixteen seeded Iona at halftime, but pulled away in the second half. Jaylen Nowell will keep the Hawkeyes in this for most of the game, but the Tar Heels will pull away late led by Cameron Johnson, Luke Maye, Nassir Little, and Coby White.
Prediction: North Carolina
(E9) UCF (26-7) vs (E1) Duke (30-5)- 5:15, CBS: The Knights are coming off a great performance over VCU. The Blue Devils got off to a slow start in their Round of 64 game against North Dakota State. Tacko Fall and the Knights normally play good defense, but too much Zion for them to handle as the Blue Devils role.
Prediction: Duke
(W6) Buffalo (32-3) vs (W3) Texas Tech (27-5)- 6:10, TNT: This is going to be some game. The Bulls are coming off a good win over their former coach Bobby Hurley and Arizona State. The Red Raiders are coming off a dominant win over Northern Kentucky. CJ Massinburg, Jeremy Harris, and Nick Perkins will hit their shots, but Jarrett Culver will be the best player on the court and he'll take the Red Raider to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Texas Tech
(E12) Liberty (29-6) vs (E4) Virginia Tech (25-8)- 7:10, TBS: The Flames are coming of an outstanding win over Mississippi State. The Hokies are coming off a dominant win over an overrated Saint Louis team. Scottie James is a character of a player who will get his points and boards, but the Hokies are better team led by Justin Robinson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker as they'll get to the second weekend.
Prediction: Virginia Tech
(S9) Oklahoma (20-13) vs (S1) Virginia (30-3)- 7:45, truTV: The Sooners are coming off a hot shooting performance in their win over Ole Miss. The Cavaliers were down double digits in the first half to sixteen seeded Gardner-Webb, but rebounded to win. The Sooners have guys with Kristian Doolittle and Christian James, but the Cavs are much better led by D'Andre Hunter, Kyle Guy, Ty Jerome, and Jack Salt.
Prediction: Virginia
(MW11) Ohio State (20-14) vs (M3) Houston (32-3)- 8:40, TNT: The Buckeyes are coming off a good win over Iowa State. The Cougars are coming off a dominant win over Georgia State. Kaleb Wesson will keep the Buckeyes in this one, but the Cougars will get the win led by Armoni Brooks and Corey Davis.
Prediction: Houston
(S13) UC Irvine (31-5) vs (S12) Oregon (24-12)- 9:40, TBS: This is going to be interesting. The Aneaters are coming off a great upset win over Kansas State. The Ducks are coming off a great win over Wisconsin. The Aneaters are a fun story and they have good players in Evan Leonard, Max Hazzard, and a lot of guys who are related to NBA legends and current NBA players and coaches, but the Ducks are the better team led by Louis King and Payton Prichard.
Prediction: Oregon
Saturday, March 23rd
(E6) Maryland (23-10) vs (E3) LSU (27-6)- 12:10, CBS: This is a fascinating Second Round game. The Terps survived the upset bid by Belmont and are solid led by Bruno Fernando and Jaylen Smith in that front-court. The Tigers got by Yale and they have a very good team led by Tremont Waters and Naz Reid. The issue is that the Tigers don't have coach Will Wade and at some point distractions will get to this team as the Terps take advantage and move on to the second weekend.
Prediction: Maryland
(MW7) Wofford (30-4) vs (MW2) Kentucky (28-6)- 2:40, CBS: This game is very intriguing. The Terriers had to pull away late against a solid Seton Hall team and Fletcher Magee was amazing. The Wildcats cruised against Abilene Christian despite the PJ Washington injury. Washington or not, the Wildcats are more talented than the Terriers and Keldon Johnson will help lead the way to the second weekend in a close one.
Prediction: Kentucky
(W10) Florida (20-15) vs (W2) Michigan (27-8)- 5:15, CBS: This should be a interesting game. The Gators got by a Nevada team that didn't shoot well in that game. The Wolverines cruised over a decent Montana team. Jalen Hudson, KeVaughn Allen, and Chase Johnson are good players, but the Wolverines have better players with Jordan Poole, Charles Matthews, Zavier Simpson, and Iggy Brazdeikis and they'll advance.
Prediction: Michigan
(W12) Murray State (28-4) vs (W4) Florida State (28-6)- 6:10, TNT: The Racers are coming off a fantastic win over Marquette courtesy of a triple-double by Ja Morant. The Seminoles are coming off a close win over Vermont and Mfiondu Kabengele was outstanding. The Seminoles don't have Phil Cofer and his absence was showed in their close win, so give me Morant and the Racers to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Murray State
(W9) Baylor (20-12) vs (W1) Gonzaga (31-3)- 7:10, TBS: The Bears are coming off a very good win over Syracuse, in which the Orange were missing a key player in Frank Howard. The Bulldogs are coming off a predictable domination over Fairleigh Dickinson. It's amazing the Bears have got this far without Tristian Clark, but the Zags are so much better led by their core of Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke, Zach Norvell, and Filip Petrušev.
Prediction: Gonzaga
(E10) Minnesota (22-13) vs (E2) Michigan State (29-6)- 7:45, CBS: It's rare to see a conference matchup in the second round but here we are. The Golden Gophers are coming off a great shooting performance in their win over Louisville. The Spartans are coming off a somewhat scare against Bradley. Jordan Murphy is someone that's going to keep the Gophs in this game, but Sparty has more talent led by Cassius Winston and Nick Ward as they'll advance to their first Sweet 16 in four years.
Prediction: Michigan State
(S6) Villanova (26-9) vs (S3) Purdue (24-9)- 8:40, TNT: This should be a fun game between two solid teams. The Wildcats are coming off a close win over Saint Mary's. The Boiler Makers are coming off a dominant win over Old Dominion. Phil Booth and Eric Paschall will keep 'Nova in the game, but give me Carsen Edwards and the Boiler Makers to advance.
Prediction: Purdue
(W5) Auburn (27-9) vs (W4) Kansas (26-9)- 9:40, TBS: Here's a battle of the FBI! The Tigers are coming off a close call against New Mexico State in which they nearly gave away the game. The Jayhawks are coming off a dominant win over Northeastern. This is a hard call but give me Bryce Brown and Jared Harper to lead the way for the Tigers to go to the Sweet 16 over a Jayhawks team that's very good with Dedric Lawson, Devon Dotson, and Quentin Grimes, but is missing key players in Udoka Azubuike and LeGerald Vick.
Prediction: Auburn
Sunday, March 24th
(S10) Iowa (23-11) vs (S2) Tennessee (30-5)- 12:10, CBS: The Hawkeyes are coming off a nice win over Cincinnati and they overcame a double digit second half to do so. The Volunteers are coming off a scare against Colgate and they wound up surviving in the end. Luka Garza was great in the Hawkeyes comeback, but I think that the Vols had their wake up call and Grant Williams, Admiral Schofield, and Kyle Alexander will lead the way to a blowout to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Tennessee
(MW9) Washington (27-8) vs (MW1) North Carolina (28-6)- 2:40, CBS: The Huskies are coming off a great win over Utah State. The Tar Heels were down to sixteen seeded Iona at halftime, but pulled away in the second half. Jaylen Nowell will keep the Hawkeyes in this for most of the game, but the Tar Heels will pull away late led by Cameron Johnson, Luke Maye, Nassir Little, and Coby White.
Prediction: North Carolina
(E9) UCF (26-7) vs (E1) Duke (30-5)- 5:15, CBS: The Knights are coming off a great performance over VCU. The Blue Devils got off to a slow start in their Round of 64 game against North Dakota State. Tacko Fall and the Knights normally play good defense, but too much Zion for them to handle as the Blue Devils role.
Prediction: Duke
(W6) Buffalo (32-3) vs (W3) Texas Tech (27-5)- 6:10, TNT: This is going to be some game. The Bulls are coming off a good win over their former coach Bobby Hurley and Arizona State. The Red Raiders are coming off a dominant win over Northern Kentucky. CJ Massinburg, Jeremy Harris, and Nick Perkins will hit their shots, but Jarrett Culver will be the best player on the court and he'll take the Red Raider to the Sweet 16.
Prediction: Texas Tech
(E12) Liberty (29-6) vs (E4) Virginia Tech (25-8)- 7:10, TBS: The Flames are coming of an outstanding win over Mississippi State. The Hokies are coming off a dominant win over an overrated Saint Louis team. Scottie James is a character of a player who will get his points and boards, but the Hokies are better team led by Justin Robinson and Nickeil Alexander-Walker as they'll get to the second weekend.
Prediction: Virginia Tech
(S9) Oklahoma (20-13) vs (S1) Virginia (30-3)- 7:45, truTV: The Sooners are coming off a hot shooting performance in their win over Ole Miss. The Cavaliers were down double digits in the first half to sixteen seeded Gardner-Webb, but rebounded to win. The Sooners have guys with Kristian Doolittle and Christian James, but the Cavs are much better led by D'Andre Hunter, Kyle Guy, Ty Jerome, and Jack Salt.
Prediction: Virginia
(MW11) Ohio State (20-14) vs (M3) Houston (32-3)- 8:40, TNT: The Buckeyes are coming off a good win over Iowa State. The Cougars are coming off a dominant win over Georgia State. Kaleb Wesson will keep the Buckeyes in this one, but the Cougars will get the win led by Armoni Brooks and Corey Davis.
Prediction: Houston
(S13) UC Irvine (31-5) vs (S12) Oregon (24-12)- 9:40, TBS: This is going to be interesting. The Aneaters are coming off a great upset win over Kansas State. The Ducks are coming off a great win over Wisconsin. The Aneaters are a fun story and they have good players in Evan Leonard, Max Hazzard, and a lot of guys who are related to NBA legends and current NBA players and coaches, but the Ducks are the better team led by Louis King and Payton Prichard.
Prediction: Oregon
Thursday, March 21, 2019
2019 NCAA Tournament: Round of 64 Predictions
Here are my predictions for the Round of 64 of the 2019 NCAA Tournament. The Thursday and Saturday First and Second Round games will be held at the XL Center in Hartford, Connecticut, the Wells Fargo Arena in Des Moines, Iowa, the VyStar Veterans Memorial Arena, and the Vivint Smart Home Arena in Salt Lake City, Utah. The Friday and Sunday First and Second Round games will be held at the Colonial Life Arena in Columbia, South Carolina, the Nationwide Arena in Columbus, Ohio, the BOK Center in Tulsa, Oklahoma, and the SAP Center in San Jose, California.
Thursday, March 21st
(E10) Minnesota (21-13) vs (E7) Louisville (20-13)- 12:15, CBS: The Pitino Bowl! Richard Pitino coaching against his fathers former team is a huge story for a variety of reasons. Jordan Murphy is someone who can flat out rebound and defend, but he can't do it alone. Give me the Cardinals led by Jordan Nwora and Ryan McMahon.
Prediction: Louisville
(E14) Yale (22-7) vs (E3) LSU (26-6)- 12:40, truTV: This is a very popular 14 over 3 upset pick due to the fact the Tigers are missing their head coach in Will Wade and is bound to be fired amid the scandal after the season is over. The Bulldogs have a stud in Miye Oni, but not much else as the Tigers will get by thanks to Tremont Waters and Naz Reid.
Prediction: LSU
(MW12) New Mexico State (30-4) vs (MW5) Auburn (26-9)- 1:30, TNT: This should be a fun game between these two teams. The Aggies are a very good team led by Trevelin Queen and Terrell Brown. The Tigers are playing well right now and are led by Jared Harper, Bryce Brown, and Austin Wiley and that trio will lead them to the next round.
Prediction: Auburn
(W13) Vermont (27-6) vs (W4) Florida State (27-6)- 2:00, TBS: This should be one of the better 13/4 games as well as Yale/LSU. The Catamounts are led by a stud guard in Anthony Lamb, but he cannot do it alone so give me the Seminoles led by Mfiondu Kabengele.
Prediction: Florida State
(E15) Bradley (20-14) vs (E2) Michigan State (28-6)- 2:45, CBS: The Braves deserve credit for getting here because they were not been favored to win their conference tournament. Reality is, the Spartans are the way better team led by Big-10 Player of the Year Cassius Winston and Nick Ward.
Prediction: Michigan State
(E11) Belmont (27-5) vs (E6) Maryland (22-10)- 3:10, truTV: This should be a fun game. The Bruins had to win the play-in game against the Temple Owls to get here and this team is a worthy at-large led by Dylan Windler. The Terps have been an up-and-down team, but I really like Bruno Fernando as someone that can improve this draft stock in this tournament and he'll lead the Terps to the next round.
Prediction: Maryland
(MW13) Northeastern (23-10) vs (MW4) Kansas (25-9)- 4:00, TNT: The Huskies are a team that wasn't favored to win it's conference tournament, but got here courtesy of the fine play of Vasa Pusica. The Jayhawks are a team that's gone through some turmoil throughout the season with some injuries and departing players, but they'll survive this round led by Dedric Lawson, Devon Dotson, and Quentin Grimes.
Prediction: Kansas
(W12) Murray State (27-4) vs (W5) Marquette (24-9)- 4:30, TBS: This is the best game of the Round of 64. The Racers are team that had to win it's conference tournament to get here and it's led by Ja Morant, who's an absolute stud. Markus Howard is a stud for the Golden Eagles and they have other talent too with Sam and Joey Hauser. I really love Morant and I think he'll shine in this tournament as he leads the Racers to the next round.
Prediction: Murray State
(W10) Florida (19-15) vs (W7) Nevada (27-4)- 6:50, TNT: The Gators are a team that I feel should be in the NIT, although they have talent with Jalen Hudson, KeVaughn Allen, and Chase Johnson. The Wolf Pack are a loaded team that could do some damage with Cody and Caleb Martin and Jordan Caroline leading the way. Caroline is not 100%, but they should still get by an offensively challenged Gators team.
Prediction: Nevada
(MW15) Abilene Christian (27-6) vs (MW2) Kentucky (27-6)- 7:10, CBS: The Purple Wildcats deserve a lot of credit for being here after winning it's conference tournament, but they are no match for the Blue Wildcats. PJ Washington, Reid Travis, Tyler Herro, and Keldon Johnson will lead the way.
Prediction: Kentucky
(S11) Saint Mary's (22-11) vs (S6) Villanova (25-9)- 7:20, TBS: The Gaels and Randy Bennett deserve a ton of credit for getting here courtesy of winning the WCC Tournament, but they are one seed line too high. The Wildcats are the better team led by Eric Paschall and Phil Booth.
Prediction: Villanova
(W16) Fairleigh Dickinson (20-13) vs (W1) Gonzaga (30-3)- 7:27, truTV: The Knights had to win the play-in game to get here, but there stay in the Big Dance won't last long. Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke, Zach Norvell, and Filip Petrušev will lead the way to the second round.
Prediction: Gonzaga
(W15) Montana (26-8) vs (W2) Michigan (28-6)- 9:20, TNT: The best fifteen-seed in the field is the Grizzlies, but I don't see them pulling off an upset. The Wolverines are led by Jordan Poole, Charles Matthews, Zavier Simpson, and Iggy Brazdeikis and they'll take them to the second round.
Prediction: Michigan
(MW10) Seton Hall (20-12) vs (MW7) Wofford (29-4)- 9:40, CBS: The Terriers are a great story this season and ending up on the seven line is great for this program and Fletcher Magee is a stud. The Pirates are playing very well right now led by Myles Powell and I like them to advance in what should be a great game.
Prediction: Seton Hall
(S14) Old Dominion (26-8) vs (S3) Purdue (23-9)- 9:50, TBS: The Monarchs have had a great season led by BJ Stith, but they'll be exposed by a better Boiler Maker team. Carsen Edwards has struggled of late, but he'll carry his team in this one.
Prediction: Purdue
(W9) Baylor (19-12) vs (W8) Syracuse (20-13)- 9:57, truTV: The Bears are a team that was hot for a few weeks, but stumbled into the dance. The Orange are a team that is more superior led by Tyus Battle, Bubby Boeheim, and Elijah Hughes. The team is missing Frank Howard for this one, but they'll get by an overrated Bears team.
Prediction: Syracuse
Friday, March 22nd
(S10) Iowa (22-11) vs (S7) Cincinnati (28-6)- 12:15, CBS: This should be an interesting game. The Hawkeyes are a team that has limped into the dance, but has talent with Luka Garza and Michael Baer. The Bearcats are underseeded led by AAC Player of the Year Jarron Cumberland will lead the way for a team that has a homecourt advantage in Columbus.
Prediction: Cincinnati
(S9) Oklahoma (19-13) vs (S8) Ole Miss (20-12)- 12:40, truTV: This game is one of the bigger toss-ups in the First Round. The Sooners are a team that has talent with Kristian Doolittle and Christian James. The Rebels are perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport this season with a new coach in Kermit Davis and good mix of players led by Breein Tyree, who will lead the Rebels to the Round of 32.
Prediction: Ole Miss
(W14) Northern Kentucky (26-8) vs (W3) Texas Tech (26-5)- 1:30, TNT: The Norse aren't that bad of a team that has the Conference Player of the Year in Drew McDonald. The Red Raiders are a team that is very well coached and has a stud in Jarrett Culver, who lead them to a rout.
Prediction: Texas Tech
(S13) UC Irvine (30-5) vs (S4) Kansas State (25-9)- 2:00, TBS: This is going to be some game. The Aneaters are a team that has talent with Evan Leonard and Max Hazzard and is well coached. The Wildcats are solid with Xavier Snead, Barry Brown, and Dean Wade. The latter is actually hurt and won't play in this game, so guess what? Give me the Aneaters for the upset!
Prediction: UC Irvine
(S15) Colgate (24-10) vs (S2) Tennessee (29-5)- 2:45, CBS: The Raiders are a team that won it's conference tournament and regular season title and has the Conference Player of the Year in Rapolas Ivanauskas. The Vols are loaded led by Grant Williams, Admiral Schofield, and Kyle Alexander and they'll cruise here.
Prediction: Tennessee
(S16) Gardner-Webb (23-11) vs (S1) Virginia (29-3)- 3:10, truTV: The Runnin' Bulldogs are a team that wasn't even favored to win their conference tournament, so they deserve credit to be here. I don't see the Cavs losing to a 16-seed for a second straight year as D'Andre Hunter, Kyle Guy, Ty Jerome, and Jack Salt lead the way.
Prediction: Virginia
(W11) Arizona State (22-10) vs (W6) Buffalo (31-3)- 4:00, TNT: The Bobby Hurley Bowl! Hurley's team thrives in big games and he tends to excel in big games too. Remy Martin and Luguentz Dort are very good players and will shine. Hurley's successor Nate Oats has done an outstanding job and he's got himself a good team too led by CJ Massinburg, Jeremy Harris, and Nick Perkins and I love this team to win and advance.
Prediction: Buffalo
(S12) Oregon (23-12) vs (S5) Wisconsin (23-10)- 4:30, TBS: This should be a very fun 12/5 game. The Ducks (sans no Bol Bol), have been playing great led by Louis King and Payton Prichard. The Badgers are a team that has been Jekkyl & Hyde, but when Ethan Happ is on his game, this team could be really good. That said, the Ducks are peaking right now and I like them here to move on.
Prediction: Oregon
(MW9) Washington (26-8) vs (MW8) Utah State (28-6)- 6:50, TNT: This should be an interesting game. The Huskies are a team that won the Pac-12 regular season title led by Conference Player of the Year Jaylen Nowell. The Aggies are a team that won it's conference tournament and have the Conference Player of the Year in Sam Merrell. Despite being over-seeded, I like the Aggies to move on.
Prediction: Utah State
(E16) North Dakota State (18-15) vs (E1) Duke (29-5)- 7:10, CBS: The Bison got here courtesy of the play-in game and they don't stand a chance here. Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, Cam Reddish, and Tre Jones will all step up as the Blue Devils win big.
Prediction: Duke
(S14) Georgia State (24-9) vs (S3) Houston (31-3)- 7:20, TBS: This could be a sneaky good game. The Panthers have a stud in D'Marcus Simonds who is capable of putting on a show. This Cougar team has been great led by Armoni Brooks and Corey Davis and they'll win this one.
Prediction: Houston
(E12) Liberty (28-6) vs (E5) Mississippi State (23-10)- 7:27, truTV: This should be a fun 12/5 game. The Flames are a team that is sneaky good led by Scottie James. The Bulldogs are in the tournament for the first time in a while led by Quindary Weatherspoon and I think this is a close game with the Bulldogs coming out on top.
Prediction: Mississippi State
(MW16) Iona (17-15) vs (MW1) North Carolina (27-6)- 9:20, TNT: The Gaels are a team that can score, but can't defend to save their lives despite how good of a coach Tim Cluess is. The Tar Heels are the by far better team and they'll blow the Gaels out led by Cameron Johnson, Luke Maye, and Coby White.
Prediction: North Carolina
(E9) UCF (23-8) vs (E8) VCU (25-7)- 9:40, CBS: This is an intriguing game between two solid teams. The Knights are led by Tacko Fall and BJ Taylor and it's a team that's defense first. The Rams are a team that's well coached and exceeded expectations this season and they have talent with Marcus Evans and Marcus Santos-Silva that's also defensive oriented. That said, Fall is the best player on court and he'll help the Knights advance.
Prediction: UCF
(S11) Ohio State (19-14) vs (S6) Iowa State (23-11)- 9:50, TBS: This is going to be a sneaky good game. The Buckeyes exceeded expectations this season and Chris Holtmann can flat out coach and Kaleb Wesson is a solid player. The Cyclones are a team that won the Big-12 tournament and it's led by Marial Shayok, Lindell Wiggington, and Taylen Horton-Tucker and I like them here to win and advance.
Prediction: Iowa State
(E13) Saint Louis (23-12) vs (E4) Virginia Tech (24-8)- 9:57, truTV: The Billikens are a team that had to win the conference tournament to get here and underachieved throughout the season. The Hokies are a team that's getting healthy at the right time with Justin Robinson coming back as he and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will lead the Hokies to the next round.
Prediction: Virginia Tech
Thursday, March 21st
(E10) Minnesota (21-13) vs (E7) Louisville (20-13)- 12:15, CBS: The Pitino Bowl! Richard Pitino coaching against his fathers former team is a huge story for a variety of reasons. Jordan Murphy is someone who can flat out rebound and defend, but he can't do it alone. Give me the Cardinals led by Jordan Nwora and Ryan McMahon.
Prediction: Louisville
(E14) Yale (22-7) vs (E3) LSU (26-6)- 12:40, truTV: This is a very popular 14 over 3 upset pick due to the fact the Tigers are missing their head coach in Will Wade and is bound to be fired amid the scandal after the season is over. The Bulldogs have a stud in Miye Oni, but not much else as the Tigers will get by thanks to Tremont Waters and Naz Reid.
Prediction: LSU
(MW12) New Mexico State (30-4) vs (MW5) Auburn (26-9)- 1:30, TNT: This should be a fun game between these two teams. The Aggies are a very good team led by Trevelin Queen and Terrell Brown. The Tigers are playing well right now and are led by Jared Harper, Bryce Brown, and Austin Wiley and that trio will lead them to the next round.
Prediction: Auburn
(W13) Vermont (27-6) vs (W4) Florida State (27-6)- 2:00, TBS: This should be one of the better 13/4 games as well as Yale/LSU. The Catamounts are led by a stud guard in Anthony Lamb, but he cannot do it alone so give me the Seminoles led by Mfiondu Kabengele.
Prediction: Florida State
(E15) Bradley (20-14) vs (E2) Michigan State (28-6)- 2:45, CBS: The Braves deserve credit for getting here because they were not been favored to win their conference tournament. Reality is, the Spartans are the way better team led by Big-10 Player of the Year Cassius Winston and Nick Ward.
Prediction: Michigan State
(E11) Belmont (27-5) vs (E6) Maryland (22-10)- 3:10, truTV: This should be a fun game. The Bruins had to win the play-in game against the Temple Owls to get here and this team is a worthy at-large led by Dylan Windler. The Terps have been an up-and-down team, but I really like Bruno Fernando as someone that can improve this draft stock in this tournament and he'll lead the Terps to the next round.
Prediction: Maryland
(MW13) Northeastern (23-10) vs (MW4) Kansas (25-9)- 4:00, TNT: The Huskies are a team that wasn't favored to win it's conference tournament, but got here courtesy of the fine play of Vasa Pusica. The Jayhawks are a team that's gone through some turmoil throughout the season with some injuries and departing players, but they'll survive this round led by Dedric Lawson, Devon Dotson, and Quentin Grimes.
Prediction: Kansas
(W12) Murray State (27-4) vs (W5) Marquette (24-9)- 4:30, TBS: This is the best game of the Round of 64. The Racers are team that had to win it's conference tournament to get here and it's led by Ja Morant, who's an absolute stud. Markus Howard is a stud for the Golden Eagles and they have other talent too with Sam and Joey Hauser. I really love Morant and I think he'll shine in this tournament as he leads the Racers to the next round.
Prediction: Murray State
(W10) Florida (19-15) vs (W7) Nevada (27-4)- 6:50, TNT: The Gators are a team that I feel should be in the NIT, although they have talent with Jalen Hudson, KeVaughn Allen, and Chase Johnson. The Wolf Pack are a loaded team that could do some damage with Cody and Caleb Martin and Jordan Caroline leading the way. Caroline is not 100%, but they should still get by an offensively challenged Gators team.
Prediction: Nevada
(MW15) Abilene Christian (27-6) vs (MW2) Kentucky (27-6)- 7:10, CBS: The Purple Wildcats deserve a lot of credit for being here after winning it's conference tournament, but they are no match for the Blue Wildcats. PJ Washington, Reid Travis, Tyler Herro, and Keldon Johnson will lead the way.
Prediction: Kentucky
(S11) Saint Mary's (22-11) vs (S6) Villanova (25-9)- 7:20, TBS: The Gaels and Randy Bennett deserve a ton of credit for getting here courtesy of winning the WCC Tournament, but they are one seed line too high. The Wildcats are the better team led by Eric Paschall and Phil Booth.
Prediction: Villanova
(W16) Fairleigh Dickinson (20-13) vs (W1) Gonzaga (30-3)- 7:27, truTV: The Knights had to win the play-in game to get here, but there stay in the Big Dance won't last long. Rui Hachimura, Brandon Clarke, Zach Norvell, and Filip Petrušev will lead the way to the second round.
Prediction: Gonzaga
(W15) Montana (26-8) vs (W2) Michigan (28-6)- 9:20, TNT: The best fifteen-seed in the field is the Grizzlies, but I don't see them pulling off an upset. The Wolverines are led by Jordan Poole, Charles Matthews, Zavier Simpson, and Iggy Brazdeikis and they'll take them to the second round.
Prediction: Michigan
(MW10) Seton Hall (20-12) vs (MW7) Wofford (29-4)- 9:40, CBS: The Terriers are a great story this season and ending up on the seven line is great for this program and Fletcher Magee is a stud. The Pirates are playing very well right now led by Myles Powell and I like them to advance in what should be a great game.
Prediction: Seton Hall
(S14) Old Dominion (26-8) vs (S3) Purdue (23-9)- 9:50, TBS: The Monarchs have had a great season led by BJ Stith, but they'll be exposed by a better Boiler Maker team. Carsen Edwards has struggled of late, but he'll carry his team in this one.
Prediction: Purdue
(W9) Baylor (19-12) vs (W8) Syracuse (20-13)- 9:57, truTV: The Bears are a team that was hot for a few weeks, but stumbled into the dance. The Orange are a team that is more superior led by Tyus Battle, Bubby Boeheim, and Elijah Hughes. The team is missing Frank Howard for this one, but they'll get by an overrated Bears team.
Prediction: Syracuse
Friday, March 22nd
(S10) Iowa (22-11) vs (S7) Cincinnati (28-6)- 12:15, CBS: This should be an interesting game. The Hawkeyes are a team that has limped into the dance, but has talent with Luka Garza and Michael Baer. The Bearcats are underseeded led by AAC Player of the Year Jarron Cumberland will lead the way for a team that has a homecourt advantage in Columbus.
Prediction: Cincinnati
(S9) Oklahoma (19-13) vs (S8) Ole Miss (20-12)- 12:40, truTV: This game is one of the bigger toss-ups in the First Round. The Sooners are a team that has talent with Kristian Doolittle and Christian James. The Rebels are perhaps the biggest surprise in the sport this season with a new coach in Kermit Davis and good mix of players led by Breein Tyree, who will lead the Rebels to the Round of 32.
Prediction: Ole Miss
(W14) Northern Kentucky (26-8) vs (W3) Texas Tech (26-5)- 1:30, TNT: The Norse aren't that bad of a team that has the Conference Player of the Year in Drew McDonald. The Red Raiders are a team that is very well coached and has a stud in Jarrett Culver, who lead them to a rout.
Prediction: Texas Tech
(S13) UC Irvine (30-5) vs (S4) Kansas State (25-9)- 2:00, TBS: This is going to be some game. The Aneaters are a team that has talent with Evan Leonard and Max Hazzard and is well coached. The Wildcats are solid with Xavier Snead, Barry Brown, and Dean Wade. The latter is actually hurt and won't play in this game, so guess what? Give me the Aneaters for the upset!
Prediction: UC Irvine
(S15) Colgate (24-10) vs (S2) Tennessee (29-5)- 2:45, CBS: The Raiders are a team that won it's conference tournament and regular season title and has the Conference Player of the Year in Rapolas Ivanauskas. The Vols are loaded led by Grant Williams, Admiral Schofield, and Kyle Alexander and they'll cruise here.
Prediction: Tennessee
(S16) Gardner-Webb (23-11) vs (S1) Virginia (29-3)- 3:10, truTV: The Runnin' Bulldogs are a team that wasn't even favored to win their conference tournament, so they deserve credit to be here. I don't see the Cavs losing to a 16-seed for a second straight year as D'Andre Hunter, Kyle Guy, Ty Jerome, and Jack Salt lead the way.
Prediction: Virginia
(W11) Arizona State (22-10) vs (W6) Buffalo (31-3)- 4:00, TNT: The Bobby Hurley Bowl! Hurley's team thrives in big games and he tends to excel in big games too. Remy Martin and Luguentz Dort are very good players and will shine. Hurley's successor Nate Oats has done an outstanding job and he's got himself a good team too led by CJ Massinburg, Jeremy Harris, and Nick Perkins and I love this team to win and advance.
Prediction: Buffalo
(S12) Oregon (23-12) vs (S5) Wisconsin (23-10)- 4:30, TBS: This should be a very fun 12/5 game. The Ducks (sans no Bol Bol), have been playing great led by Louis King and Payton Prichard. The Badgers are a team that has been Jekkyl & Hyde, but when Ethan Happ is on his game, this team could be really good. That said, the Ducks are peaking right now and I like them here to move on.
Prediction: Oregon
(MW9) Washington (26-8) vs (MW8) Utah State (28-6)- 6:50, TNT: This should be an interesting game. The Huskies are a team that won the Pac-12 regular season title led by Conference Player of the Year Jaylen Nowell. The Aggies are a team that won it's conference tournament and have the Conference Player of the Year in Sam Merrell. Despite being over-seeded, I like the Aggies to move on.
Prediction: Utah State
(E16) North Dakota State (18-15) vs (E1) Duke (29-5)- 7:10, CBS: The Bison got here courtesy of the play-in game and they don't stand a chance here. Zion Williamson, RJ Barrett, Cam Reddish, and Tre Jones will all step up as the Blue Devils win big.
Prediction: Duke
(S14) Georgia State (24-9) vs (S3) Houston (31-3)- 7:20, TBS: This could be a sneaky good game. The Panthers have a stud in D'Marcus Simonds who is capable of putting on a show. This Cougar team has been great led by Armoni Brooks and Corey Davis and they'll win this one.
Prediction: Houston
(E12) Liberty (28-6) vs (E5) Mississippi State (23-10)- 7:27, truTV: This should be a fun 12/5 game. The Flames are a team that is sneaky good led by Scottie James. The Bulldogs are in the tournament for the first time in a while led by Quindary Weatherspoon and I think this is a close game with the Bulldogs coming out on top.
Prediction: Mississippi State
(MW16) Iona (17-15) vs (MW1) North Carolina (27-6)- 9:20, TNT: The Gaels are a team that can score, but can't defend to save their lives despite how good of a coach Tim Cluess is. The Tar Heels are the by far better team and they'll blow the Gaels out led by Cameron Johnson, Luke Maye, and Coby White.
Prediction: North Carolina
(E9) UCF (23-8) vs (E8) VCU (25-7)- 9:40, CBS: This is an intriguing game between two solid teams. The Knights are led by Tacko Fall and BJ Taylor and it's a team that's defense first. The Rams are a team that's well coached and exceeded expectations this season and they have talent with Marcus Evans and Marcus Santos-Silva that's also defensive oriented. That said, Fall is the best player on court and he'll help the Knights advance.
Prediction: UCF
(S11) Ohio State (19-14) vs (S6) Iowa State (23-11)- 9:50, TBS: This is going to be a sneaky good game. The Buckeyes exceeded expectations this season and Chris Holtmann can flat out coach and Kaleb Wesson is a solid player. The Cyclones are a team that won the Big-12 tournament and it's led by Marial Shayok, Lindell Wiggington, and Taylen Horton-Tucker and I like them here to win and advance.
Prediction: Iowa State
(E13) Saint Louis (23-12) vs (E4) Virginia Tech (24-8)- 9:57, truTV: The Billikens are a team that had to win the conference tournament to get here and underachieved throughout the season. The Hokies are a team that's getting healthy at the right time with Justin Robinson coming back as he and Nickeil Alexander-Walker will lead the Hokies to the next round.
Prediction: Virginia Tech
Wednesday, March 20, 2019
2019 MLB National TV Schedule
Here is the National TV schedule for the 2019 MLB season with announcers.
3/20- Mariners vs Athletics (Japan); 5:30AM, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
3/21- Mariners vs Athletics (Japan); 5:30AM, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
3/28- Orioles vs Yankees; 1:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
3/28- Diamondbacks vs Dodgers; 4:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, David Ross
3/28- Red Sox vs Mariners; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
3/30- Braves vs Phillies; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
3/30- Giants vs Padres; 9:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
3/31- Cubs vs Rangers; 4:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
3/31- Braves vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/1- Cardinals vs Pirates; 1:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, Rick Sutcliffe
4/1- White Sox vs Indians; 4:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Kyle Peterson
4/1- Cubs vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
4/1- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
4/2- Phillies vs Nationals; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/3- Cubs vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
4/6- Rangers vs Angels; 4:00, FS1: Kevin Burkhardt, AJ Pierzynski
4/6- Cubs vs Brewers; 7:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
4/7- Dodgers vs Rockies; 8:30, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/8- Yankees vs Astros; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
4/9- Blue Jays vs Red Sox; 2:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
4/9- Yankees vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
4/10- Yankees vs Astros; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/13- Rockies vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Don Orsillo, Eric Karros
4/13- Mets vs Braves; 7:20, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
4/14- Cardinals vs Reds (Mexico); 4:00, ESPN: Adam Amin, Eduardo Perez
4/14- Mets vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/15- Mets vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Ryan Howard, Tim Kurkjian
4/15- Reds vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe
4/16- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Caat, Tom Verducci
4/17- Red Sox vs Yankees; 6:30, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Jeff Passan
4/20- Giants vs Pirates; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
4/20- Dodgers vs Brewers; 7:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
4/21- Braves vs Indians; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/23- Dodgers vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/24- Tigers vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez
4/27- Indians vs Astros; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Joe Girardi
4/27- Brewers vs Mets; 7:00, FS1: Kevin Butkhardt, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
4/28- Indians vs Astros; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/29- Athletics vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/1- Astros vs Indians; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe
5/3- Nationals vs Phillies; 7:00, MLBN: Matt Vasgersian, Joe Girardi, J.P. Morosi
5/4- Cardinals vs Cubs; 4:00, FS1: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/4- Athletics vs Pirates; 7:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Joe Girardi
5/5- Astros vs Angels; 4:00, ESPN: Adam Amin, Rick Sutcliffe
5/5- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/6- Phillies vs Cardinals; 8:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/8- Mariners vs Yankees; 6:30, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Mike Petriello
5/11- Indians vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
5/12- Brewers vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/13- Brewers vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
5/15- Cardinals vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
5/17- Astros vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
5/18- Astros vs Red Sox; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/18- Brewers vs Braves; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, AJ Pierzynski
5/18- Cubs vs Nationals; 7:15, FOX: Len Kasper, Joe Girardi
5/18- Royals vs Angels; 10:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
5/19- Cubs vs Nationals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/20- Phillies vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Joe Girardi, Tom Verducci
5/21- Phillies vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/21- Braves vs Giants; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe
5/25- Diamondbacks vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Steve Berthuiame, Bob Brenly (Diamondbacks Feed)
5/25- Red Sox vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/25- Dodgers vs Pirates; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, Tom Verducci, J.P. Morosi
5/25- Braves vs Cardinals; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
5/26- Braves vs Cardinals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/27- Marlins vs Nationals; 1:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, David Ross
5/27- Indians vs Red Sox; 4:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/27- Mets vs Dodgers; 8:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe
5/29- Cubs vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Jeff Passan
5/31- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Tom Verducci
6/1- Brewers vs Pirates; 4:00, FS1: Brian Anderson, Dan Plesac, Sophia Minneart (Brewers feed)
6/1- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/1- Cubs vs Cardinals; 7:15, FOX: Len Casper, AJ Pierzynski, Jon Paul Morosi
6/1- Angels vs Mariners; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
6/2- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/3- Astros vs Mariners; 10:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, Rick Sutcliffe
6/6- Yankees vs Blue Jays; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
6/7- Yankees vs Indians; 7:00, MLBN: Matt Vasgersian, Tom Verducci, J.P. Morosi
6/8- Yankees vs Indians; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith. Tom Verducci
6/8- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/8- Dodgers vs Giants; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski
6/8- Rockies vs Mets; 7:15, FOX: Kevin Burkhardt, Joe Girardi
6/9- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/11- Mets vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
6/12- Brewers vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
6/13- Tigers vs Royals; 8:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Kyle Peterson
6/15- Diamondbacks vs Nationals; 4:00, FS1: Kenny Albert, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
6/16- Cubs vs Dodgers; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/17- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Alex Rodriguez
6/19- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross
6/21- Astros vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Ken Rosenthal
6/22- Tigers vs Indians; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, John Farrell
6/22- Astros vs Yankees; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, A.J. Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
6/22- Rockies vs Dodgers; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, Eric Karros, J.P. Morosi
6/22- Braves vs Nationals; 7:15, FOX: Don Orsillo, Tom Verducci
6/23- Angels vs Cardinals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/24- Rockies vs Giants; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe, Tim Kurkjian
6/25- Rockies vs Giants; 9:45, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe, Tim Kurkjian
6/26- Braves vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Joe Girardi, Tom Verducci
6/29- Yankees vs Red Sox (London); 1:00, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/29- Nationals vs Tigers; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
6/29- Dodgers vs Rockies; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski
6/29- Mariners vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Joe Girardi, Jon Morosi
6/29- Pirates vs Brewers; 7:15, FOX: Jeff Levering, Eric Karros
6/30- Yankees vs Red Sox (London); 10:00AM, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/30- Braves vs Mets; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/1- Cubs vs Pirates; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/2- Yankees vs Mets; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat
7/3- Yankees vs Mets; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, David Ross
7/4- Cubs vs Pirates; 4:00, ESPN: Tom Hart, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/4- Phillies vs Braves; 7:15, ESPN: Dan Shulman, David Ross, Ryan Howard
7/6- Phillies vs Mets; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Joe Girardi, Ken Rosenthal
7/6- Cubs vs White Sox; 7:15, FOX: Len Kasper, A.J. Pierzynski
7/6- Angels vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci, Jon Morosi
7/6- Rockies vs Diamondbacks; 10:00, FS1: Steve Berthiaume, Luis Gonzalez (Diamondbacks feed)
7/7- Yankees vs Rays; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Pedro Martinez, Jimmy Rollins
7/11- Astros vs Rangers; 8:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/13- White Sox vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
7/13- Dodgers vs Red Sox; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
7/13- Nationals vs Phillies; 7:15, FOX: Kenny Albert, Joe Girardi
7/13- Giants vs Brewers; 7:15, FOX: Brian Anderson, Tom Verducci
7/14- Nationals vs Phillies; 1:00, TBS: Don Orsillo, Pedro Martinez
7/14- Dodgers vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/15- Dodgers vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
7/16- Dodgers vs Phillies; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
7/18- Dodgers vs Phillies; 12:30, YouTube: Scott Braun, Orel Hershiser, Ben Davis, Alexa Datt
7/18- Rays vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
7/20- Mets vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, A.J. Pierzynski
7/20- Nationals vs Braves; 7:00, FS1: Chip Caray, Joe Simpson, Paul Byrd (Braves feed)
7/21- Rockies vs Yankees; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
7/21- Nationals vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/22- Red Sox vs Rays; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
7/23- Indians vs Blue Jays; 7:00, YouTube: Scott Braun, Sean Casey, Cliff Floyd, Jackie Redmond
7/24- Yankees vs Twins; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Jeff Passan
7/25- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/26- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/27- Yankees vs Red Sox; 4:05, FS1: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/27- Astros vs Cardinals; 7:15, FS1: Kenny Albert, Tom Verducci
7/28- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/29- Braves vs Nationals; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/29- Tigers vs Angels; 10:00, MLBN: Rich Waltz, Mark Langston, Tom Verducci, Jon Morosi
7/30- Cubs vs Cardinals; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Jackie Redmond
7/31- Cubs vs Cardinals; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Eduardo Perez
8/2- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
8/3- Red Sox vs Yankees; 1:00, FS1: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/3- Angels vs Indians; 7:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
8/4- Brewers vs Cubs; 2:20, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
8/4- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/5- Athletics vs Cubs; 8:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
8/7- Cardinals vs Dodgers; 3:00, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Ben Davis, Shawn Estes
8/7- Brewers vs Pirates; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Ryan Howard
8/8- Phillies vs Giants; 9:30, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Ben Davis, Shawn Estes, Guy Haberman
8/10- Phillies vs Giants; 4:30, FS1: Eric Collins, Eric Karros
8/10- Rockies vs Padres; 8:30, FS1: Don Orsillo, Mark Grant, Mark Sweeney, Annie Heilbrunn (Padres feed)
8/11- Phillies vs Giants; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez
8/12- Indians vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
8/14- Cubs vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Rick Sutcliffe
8/16- Indians vs Yankees; 7:00, FS1: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, JP Morosi
8/17- Astros vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
8/17- Brewers vs Nationals; 7:00, FS1: Kenny Albert, Joe Girardi, Ken Rosenthal
8/18- Dodgers vs Braves; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
8/18- Cubs vs Pirates (Williamsport); 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/20- Yankees vs Athletics; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, Eduardo Perez
8/21- Rockies vs Diamondbacks; 3:30, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Jeremy Affeldt, Eric Baynes, Alexa Datt
8/21- Yankees vs Athletics; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, Eduardo Perez
8/23- Yankees vs Dodgers; 10:00, Facebook: Scott Braun, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/24- Yankees vs Dodgers; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/24- Rockies vs Cardinals; 7:15, FS1: Dan McLaughlin, Jim Edmonds, Jim Hayes (Cardinals feed)
8/25- Nationals vs Cubs; 2:00, TBS: Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling
8/25- Yankees vs Dodgers; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/26- Braves vs Rockies; 3:30, YouTube: Scott Braun, Jeremy Affledt, Matt Diaz, Lauren Gardner
8/26- Cardinals vs Brewers; 7:00, ESPN: Jason Benetti, Rick Sutcliffe, Jeff Passan
8/26- Yankees vs Mariners; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Ken Griffey Jr
8/27- Cubs vs Mets; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Joe Girardi
8/27- Rangers vs Angels; 10:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
8/30- Athletics vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Tom Verducci
8/31- Mets vs Phillies; 4:00, FS1: Don Orsillo, Joe Girardi, AJ Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
9/1- Yankees vs Athletics; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
9/1- Mets vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
3/20- Mariners vs Athletics (Japan); 5:30AM, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
3/21- Mariners vs Athletics (Japan); 5:30AM, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
3/28- Orioles vs Yankees; 1:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
3/28- Diamondbacks vs Dodgers; 4:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, David Ross
3/28- Red Sox vs Mariners; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
3/30- Braves vs Phillies; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
3/30- Giants vs Padres; 9:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
3/31- Cubs vs Rangers; 4:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
3/31- Braves vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/1- Cardinals vs Pirates; 1:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, Rick Sutcliffe
4/1- White Sox vs Indians; 4:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Kyle Peterson
4/1- Cubs vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
4/1- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez
4/2- Phillies vs Nationals; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/3- Cubs vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
4/6- Rangers vs Angels; 4:00, FS1: Kevin Burkhardt, AJ Pierzynski
4/6- Cubs vs Brewers; 7:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
4/7- Dodgers vs Rockies; 8:30, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/8- Yankees vs Astros; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
4/9- Blue Jays vs Red Sox; 2:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
4/9- Yankees vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
4/10- Yankees vs Astros; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/13- Rockies vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Don Orsillo, Eric Karros
4/13- Mets vs Braves; 7:20, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
4/14- Cardinals vs Reds (Mexico); 4:00, ESPN: Adam Amin, Eduardo Perez
4/14- Mets vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/15- Mets vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Ryan Howard, Tim Kurkjian
4/15- Reds vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe
4/16- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Caat, Tom Verducci
4/17- Red Sox vs Yankees; 6:30, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Jeff Passan
4/20- Giants vs Pirates; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
4/20- Dodgers vs Brewers; 7:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
4/21- Braves vs Indians; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/23- Dodgers vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
4/24- Tigers vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez
4/27- Indians vs Astros; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Joe Girardi
4/27- Brewers vs Mets; 7:00, FS1: Kevin Butkhardt, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
4/28- Indians vs Astros; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
4/29- Athletics vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/1- Astros vs Indians; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe
5/3- Nationals vs Phillies; 7:00, MLBN: Matt Vasgersian, Joe Girardi, J.P. Morosi
5/4- Cardinals vs Cubs; 4:00, FS1: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/4- Athletics vs Pirates; 7:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Joe Girardi
5/5- Astros vs Angels; 4:00, ESPN: Adam Amin, Rick Sutcliffe
5/5- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/6- Phillies vs Cardinals; 8:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/8- Mariners vs Yankees; 6:30, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Mike Petriello
5/11- Indians vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
5/12- Brewers vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/13- Brewers vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
5/15- Cardinals vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
5/17- Astros vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
5/18- Astros vs Red Sox; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/18- Brewers vs Braves; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, AJ Pierzynski
5/18- Cubs vs Nationals; 7:15, FOX: Len Kasper, Joe Girardi
5/18- Royals vs Angels; 10:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
5/19- Cubs vs Nationals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/20- Phillies vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Joe Girardi, Tom Verducci
5/21- Phillies vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/21- Braves vs Giants; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe
5/25- Diamondbacks vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Steve Berthuiame, Bob Brenly (Diamondbacks Feed)
5/25- Red Sox vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
5/25- Dodgers vs Pirates; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, Tom Verducci, J.P. Morosi
5/25- Braves vs Cardinals; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
5/26- Braves vs Cardinals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
5/27- Marlins vs Nationals; 1:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, David Ross
5/27- Indians vs Red Sox; 4:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
5/27- Mets vs Dodgers; 8:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe
5/29- Cubs vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Jeff Passan
5/31- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Tom Verducci
6/1- Brewers vs Pirates; 4:00, FS1: Brian Anderson, Dan Plesac, Sophia Minneart (Brewers feed)
6/1- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/1- Cubs vs Cardinals; 7:15, FOX: Len Casper, AJ Pierzynski, Jon Paul Morosi
6/1- Angels vs Mariners; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Eric Karros
6/2- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/3- Astros vs Mariners; 10:00, ESPN: Dan Shulman, Rick Sutcliffe
6/6- Yankees vs Blue Jays; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
6/7- Yankees vs Indians; 7:00, MLBN: Matt Vasgersian, Tom Verducci, J.P. Morosi
6/8- Yankees vs Indians; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith. Tom Verducci
6/8- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:15, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/8- Dodgers vs Giants; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski
6/8- Rockies vs Mets; 7:15, FOX: Kevin Burkhardt, Joe Girardi
6/9- Cardinals vs Cubs; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/11- Mets vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
6/12- Brewers vs Astros; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross
6/13- Tigers vs Royals; 8:00, ESPN: Karl Ravech, Eduardo Perez, Kyle Peterson
6/15- Diamondbacks vs Nationals; 4:00, FS1: Kenny Albert, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
6/16- Cubs vs Dodgers; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/17- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Alex Rodriguez
6/19- Giants vs Dodgers; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross
6/21- Astros vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Ken Rosenthal
6/22- Tigers vs Indians; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, John Farrell
6/22- Astros vs Yankees; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, A.J. Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
6/22- Rockies vs Dodgers; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, Eric Karros, J.P. Morosi
6/22- Braves vs Nationals; 7:15, FOX: Don Orsillo, Tom Verducci
6/23- Angels vs Cardinals; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/24- Rockies vs Giants; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe, Tim Kurkjian
6/25- Rockies vs Giants; 9:45, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Rick Sutcliffe, Tim Kurkjian
6/26- Braves vs Cubs; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Joe Girardi, Tom Verducci
6/29- Yankees vs Red Sox (London); 1:00, FOX: Joe Buck, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
6/29- Nationals vs Tigers; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
6/29- Dodgers vs Rockies; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski
6/29- Mariners vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Joe Girardi, Jon Morosi
6/29- Pirates vs Brewers; 7:15, FOX: Jeff Levering, Eric Karros
6/30- Yankees vs Red Sox (London); 10:00AM, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
6/30- Braves vs Mets; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/1- Cubs vs Pirates; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/2- Yankees vs Mets; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat
7/3- Yankees vs Mets; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, David Ross
7/4- Cubs vs Pirates; 4:00, ESPN: Tom Hart, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/4- Phillies vs Braves; 7:15, ESPN: Dan Shulman, David Ross, Ryan Howard
7/6- Phillies vs Mets; 7:15, FOX: Aaron Goldsmith, Joe Girardi, Ken Rosenthal
7/6- Cubs vs White Sox; 7:15, FOX: Len Kasper, A.J. Pierzynski
7/6- Angels vs Astros; 7:15, FOX: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci, Jon Morosi
7/6- Rockies vs Diamondbacks; 10:00, FS1: Steve Berthiaume, Luis Gonzalez (Diamondbacks feed)
7/7- Yankees vs Rays; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Pedro Martinez, Jimmy Rollins
7/11- Astros vs Rangers; 8:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/13- White Sox vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
7/13- Dodgers vs Red Sox; 7:15, FOX: Joe Davis, A.J. Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
7/13- Nationals vs Phillies; 7:15, FOX: Kenny Albert, Joe Girardi
7/13- Giants vs Brewers; 7:15, FOX: Brian Anderson, Tom Verducci
7/14- Nationals vs Phillies; 1:00, TBS: Don Orsillo, Pedro Martinez
7/14- Dodgers vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/15- Dodgers vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
7/16- Dodgers vs Phillies; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
7/18- Dodgers vs Phillies; 12:30, YouTube: Scott Braun, Orel Hershiser, Ben Davis, Alexa Datt
7/18- Rays vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Tom Verducci, Ken Rosenthal
7/20- Mets vs Giants; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, A.J. Pierzynski
7/20- Nationals vs Braves; 7:00, FS1: Chip Caray, Joe Simpson, Paul Byrd (Braves feed)
7/21- Rockies vs Yankees; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
7/21- Nationals vs Braves; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/22- Red Sox vs Rays; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
7/23- Indians vs Blue Jays; 7:00, YouTube: Scott Braun, Sean Casey, Cliff Floyd, Jackie Redmond
7/24- Yankees vs Twins; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Jeff Passan
7/25- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/26- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/27- Yankees vs Red Sox; 4:05, FS1: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
7/27- Astros vs Cardinals; 7:15, FS1: Kenny Albert, Tom Verducci
7/28- Yankees vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
7/29- Braves vs Nationals; 7:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
7/29- Tigers vs Angels; 10:00, MLBN: Rich Waltz, Mark Langston, Tom Verducci, Jon Morosi
7/30- Cubs vs Cardinals; 8:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Jackie Redmond
7/31- Cubs vs Cardinals; 8:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Eduardo Perez
8/2- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, John Smoltz, Tom Verducci
8/3- Red Sox vs Yankees; 1:00, FS1: Joe Davis, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/3- Angels vs Indians; 7:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
8/4- Brewers vs Cubs; 2:20, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
8/4- Red Sox vs Yankees; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/5- Athletics vs Cubs; 8:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, David Ross, Tim Kurkjian
8/7- Cardinals vs Dodgers; 3:00, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Ben Davis, Shawn Estes
8/7- Brewers vs Pirates; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, David Ross, Ryan Howard
8/8- Phillies vs Giants; 9:30, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Ben Davis, Shawn Estes, Guy Haberman
8/10- Phillies vs Giants; 4:30, FS1: Eric Collins, Eric Karros
8/10- Rockies vs Padres; 8:30, FS1: Don Orsillo, Mark Grant, Mark Sweeney, Annie Heilbrunn (Padres feed)
8/11- Phillies vs Giants; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez
8/12- Indians vs Red Sox; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Tim Kurkjian
8/14- Cubs vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Eduardo Perez, Rick Sutcliffe
8/16- Indians vs Yankees; 7:00, FS1: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, JP Morosi
8/17- Astros vs Athletics; 4:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Tom Verducci
8/17- Brewers vs Nationals; 7:00, FS1: Kenny Albert, Joe Girardi, Ken Rosenthal
8/18- Dodgers vs Braves; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
8/18- Cubs vs Pirates (Williamsport); 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/20- Yankees vs Athletics; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, Eduardo Perez
8/21- Rockies vs Diamondbacks; 3:30, YouTube: Rich Waltz, Jeremy Affeldt, Eric Baynes, Alexa Datt
8/21- Yankees vs Athletics; 10:00, ESPN: Jon Sciambi, Rick Sutcliffe, Eduardo Perez
8/23- Yankees vs Dodgers; 10:00, Facebook: Scott Braun, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/24- Yankees vs Dodgers; 4:00, FS1: Aaron Goldsmith, John Smoltz, Ken Rosenthal
8/24- Rockies vs Cardinals; 7:15, FS1: Dan McLaughlin, Jim Edmonds, Jim Hayes (Cardinals feed)
8/25- Nationals vs Cubs; 2:00, TBS: Ernie Johnson, Ron Darling
8/25- Yankees vs Dodgers; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
8/26- Braves vs Rockies; 3:30, YouTube: Scott Braun, Jeremy Affledt, Matt Diaz, Lauren Gardner
8/26- Cardinals vs Brewers; 7:00, ESPN: Jason Benetti, Rick Sutcliffe, Jeff Passan
8/26- Yankees vs Mariners; 10:00, ESPN: Dave Flemming, Eduardo Perez, Ken Griffey Jr
8/27- Cubs vs Mets; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Joe Girardi
8/27- Rangers vs Angels; 10:00, FS1: Justin Kutcher, Eric Karros
8/30- Athletics vs Yankees; 7:00, MLBN: Bob Costas, Jim Kaat, Tom Verducci
8/31- Mets vs Phillies; 4:00, FS1: Don Orsillo, Joe Girardi, AJ Pierzynski, Ken Rosenthal
9/1- Yankees vs Athletics; 1:00, TBS: Brian Anderson, Ron Darling
9/1- Mets vs Phillies; 7:00, ESPN: Matt Vasgersian, Jessica Mendoza, Alex Rodriguez, Buster Olney
2019 MLB Awards Predictions
Here are my award predictions for the 2019 MLB Season.
American League
MVP: Aaron Judge, New York Yankees: The league is starting to recognize players from the best teams for the league MVP awards. Judge is someone who broke his wrist last season courtesy of being hit by a pitch and he seems poised for a monster season, possibly better than his phenomenal rookie season. He can do everything whether it's hitting for power and even average as well and provides great defense in right field. He will be benefited in a great lineup too.
Runner up: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels
Cy Young: Gerrit Cole, Houston Astros: Cole is someone in a contract year and I expect him to have the best season of his career. He is in a good rotation too in which it lost some pieces due to injury and free agency departures and he's someone who is hitting his prime at a good time.
Runner up: Corey Kluber, Cleveland Indians
Rookie of the Year: Vlad Gurriero Jr, Toronto Blue Jays: There's no bigger lock in the sport in terms of awards. Gurriero is someone that's gauged a ton of hype and rightfully so. He'll bring the Jays back to relevancy and he'll hit a ton of homeruns in his big league career.
Runner up: Eloy Jiminez, Chicago White Sox
Manager of the Year: Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays: Many folks expect a step back from this team after having a great 2018. Not so fast, I have this team as a playoff team as young players will continuer to grow and develop and veteran additions will prove to be smart.
Runner up: Terry Francona, Cleveland Indians
Comeback Player of the Year: Gary Sanchez, New York Yankees: After a dismal 2018, expect Sanchez to return to the player we saw in 2016-2017. His defense may still be flawed, but his offensive output will be dramatically better and perhaps the best of his career.
Runner up: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
National League
MVP: Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs: Bryant is someone that was hampered by injuries and inconsistent play last season. This guy is a franchise player and he's someone that is very versatile for Joe Maddon. I expect him to have a season similar (or maybe better) to his 2016 MVP campaign.
Runner up: Nolan Arenado, Colorado Rockies
Cy Young: Walker Buehler, Los Angeles Dodgers: Buehler is someone who was amazing in his rookie season and pitched very well in big games as the Dodgers made their World Series run. He is now the ace of the Dodgers staff and he'll show it all season long.
Runner up: Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies
Rookie of the Year: Victor Robles, Washington Nationals: Robles is someone that's going to come in and start immediately for the Nats, replacing Bryce Harper. He'll have a big impact on this team right now and in the future.
Runner up: Fernando Tatis Jr, San Diego Padres
Manager of the Year: Brian Snitker, Atlanta Braves: Many folks thinks this team will take a step back, but not me. This team is loaded with talent whether it's young talent or veterans and they will make another October appearance.
Runner up: Craig Counsel, Milwaukee Brewers
Comeback Player of the Year: Corey Seager, Los Angeles Dodgers: This is the obvious choice here as Seager returns from Tommy John surgery. He'll provide a different look to the Dodgers offense as he'll return to forum and could wind up being an MVP candidate.
Runner up: Yu Darvish, Chicago Cubs
American League
MVP: Aaron Judge, New York Yankees: The league is starting to recognize players from the best teams for the league MVP awards. Judge is someone who broke his wrist last season courtesy of being hit by a pitch and he seems poised for a monster season, possibly better than his phenomenal rookie season. He can do everything whether it's hitting for power and even average as well and provides great defense in right field. He will be benefited in a great lineup too.
Runner up: Mike Trout, Los Angeles Angels
Cy Young: Gerrit Cole, Houston Astros: Cole is someone in a contract year and I expect him to have the best season of his career. He is in a good rotation too in which it lost some pieces due to injury and free agency departures and he's someone who is hitting his prime at a good time.
Runner up: Corey Kluber, Cleveland Indians
Rookie of the Year: Vlad Gurriero Jr, Toronto Blue Jays: There's no bigger lock in the sport in terms of awards. Gurriero is someone that's gauged a ton of hype and rightfully so. He'll bring the Jays back to relevancy and he'll hit a ton of homeruns in his big league career.
Runner up: Eloy Jiminez, Chicago White Sox
Manager of the Year: Kevin Cash, Tampa Bay Rays: Many folks expect a step back from this team after having a great 2018. Not so fast, I have this team as a playoff team as young players will continuer to grow and develop and veteran additions will prove to be smart.
Runner up: Terry Francona, Cleveland Indians
Comeback Player of the Year: Gary Sanchez, New York Yankees: After a dismal 2018, expect Sanchez to return to the player we saw in 2016-2017. His defense may still be flawed, but his offensive output will be dramatically better and perhaps the best of his career.
Runner up: Miguel Cabrera, Detroit Tigers
National League
MVP: Kris Bryant, Chicago Cubs: Bryant is someone that was hampered by injuries and inconsistent play last season. This guy is a franchise player and he's someone that is very versatile for Joe Maddon. I expect him to have a season similar (or maybe better) to his 2016 MVP campaign.
Runner up: Nolan Arenado, Colorado Rockies
Cy Young: Walker Buehler, Los Angeles Dodgers: Buehler is someone who was amazing in his rookie season and pitched very well in big games as the Dodgers made their World Series run. He is now the ace of the Dodgers staff and he'll show it all season long.
Runner up: Aaron Nola, Philadelphia Phillies
Rookie of the Year: Victor Robles, Washington Nationals: Robles is someone that's going to come in and start immediately for the Nats, replacing Bryce Harper. He'll have a big impact on this team right now and in the future.
Runner up: Fernando Tatis Jr, San Diego Padres
Manager of the Year: Brian Snitker, Atlanta Braves: Many folks thinks this team will take a step back, but not me. This team is loaded with talent whether it's young talent or veterans and they will make another October appearance.
Runner up: Craig Counsel, Milwaukee Brewers
Comeback Player of the Year: Corey Seager, Los Angeles Dodgers: This is the obvious choice here as Seager returns from Tommy John surgery. He'll provide a different look to the Dodgers offense as he'll return to forum and could wind up being an MVP candidate.
Runner up: Yu Darvish, Chicago Cubs
2019 MLB Season Predictions
Here are my predictions for the 2019 MLB season. Will the Red Sox repeat as World Series champs? How will Bryce Harper and Manny Machado fare in their first seasons with their new teams? What teams will surprise or disappoint? See below to find out.
American League East
1. New York Yankees (100-62)
2. Boston Red Sox (97-65) (Wild Card #1)
3. Tampa Bay Rays (90-72) (Wild Card #2)
4. Toronto Blue Jays (74-88)
5. Baltimore Orioles (55-107)
The Boston Red Sox may be your reigning World Champions, but the selection to win this division is the New York Yankees. A lot went wrong for the Yanks last season, but they still won 100 games. Aaron Judge is back and healthy, Giancarlo Stanton will be better in his second season in pinstripes, Gary Sanchez is poised for a huge bounce back season, and the rest of this offense will rake. Just wait until Didi Gregorius comes back from Tommy John Surgery. The rotation is improved with the addition of James Paxton and re-signing JA Happ to go with Luis Severino (who won't be back until May due to shoulder inflammation), Masahiro Tanaka, and CC Sabathia. The bullpen is the best in the game led by Aroldis Chapman, Dellin Betances, Zack Britton, and new addition Adam Ottavino. The Red Sox are a team that's still a contender, but is poised to take a step back this season. Their offense is still great led by reigning AL MVP Mookie Betts, JD Martinez, Xander Bogaerts, and Andrew Benintendi. Chris Sale is still their team ace to go with veterans David Price, Nathan Eovaldi, and Rick Porcello in that rotation. Their bullpen is not good after the pending departure of Craig Kimbrel. Their closer is slated to be Matt Barnes, which is not ideal. The Tampa Bay Rays are team that overachieved a year ago and got better during the offseason. Their offense will be better with a full season of Tammy Pham, a possible breakout of Willy Adames, and the additions of Mike Zunino and Yandy Diaz. Their rotation is better with the addition of Charlie Morton to go with the reigning AL Cy Young winner Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. They have a ton of good "opener" options with Ryne Stanek and Ryan Yarborough and they have some good relief options including Jose Alvardo. The Toronto Blue Jays are rebuilding and they have a future foundation that will be the left side of the infield of theirs by midseason with Vlad Gurriero Jr and Bo Bichette. They have some veterans on their team too with Justin Smoak and Kendrys Morales. Their rotation has talent on top with Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez. Ken Giles is a closer who's hit or miss. The Baltimore Orioles are the worst team in the majors. Overpaid veterans Mark Trumbo and Chris Davis are still on this team and they have possible trade baits in Trey Mancini and Jonathan Villar. They have an average top three in their rotation with Dylan Bundy, Andrew Cashner, and Alex Cobb and it would not surprise me if those guys are trade bait too. Another trade bait on this squad is closer Mychal Givens.
American League Central
1. Cleveland Indians (92-70)
2. Minnesota Twins (79-83)
3. Chicago White Sox (72-90)
4. Detroit Tigers (64-98)
5. Kansas City Royals (58-102)
The team to beat in this division is the Cleveland Indians. Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez are the foundation pieces of this offense and they have a real breakout candidate in trade acquisition Jake Bauers. Their rotation is the best in the game featuring Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer, Carlos Corrasco, Mike Clevenger, and Shane Bieber. Their bullpen will miss Cody Allen and Andrew Miller although they still have closer Brad Hand and Adam Cimber. The Minnesota Twins are a team folks are expecting a big jump from. Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano are two guys that have been inconsistent throughout their careers. Jorge Polanco and Eddie Rosario are guys that have shown promise. Jose Berrios is a guy that is capable of being a rotation ace and they have some other average guys in Kyle Gibson, Michael Pineda, and Jake Odorizzi. Their bullpen is not very good and their closer is Trevor May. The Chicago White Sox are a team that wants to improve badly although they missed out on Manny Machado. Their offense will be improved with the additions of Yonder Alonso, Jon Jay, and Wellington Castillo to go with Jose Abreu and Yoan Moncada. The rotation is not good especially
without Michael Kopech, who is out with Tommy John surgery. Carlos Rodon and Reynaldo Lopez showed flashes, but haven't put it together yet. Their closer is Alex Colome, who isn't bad although Kelvin Herrera probably should close for them. The Detroit Tigers are a team that's in the midst of a rebuild. They have a trade bait guy with Nicholas Castellanos, an aging Miguel Cabrera, and two possible building blocks in Jeimer Candelario and Christin Stewart. Michael Fulmer might be getting Tommy John surgery and that takes away a valuable trade chip. Matt Boyd is slated as their ace now and they have the overpaid Jordan Zimmerman in their rotation too. Closer Shane Greene could be trade bait too with a good season. The Kansas City Royals might be the second worst team in the majors with a lengthy rebuild underway. Salvador Perez is out for the season with Tommy John surgery. Their offense will feature possible trade baits in Whit Merrifield and Billy Hamilton and youngsters in Hunter Dozier, Jorge Soler, and Adalberto Mondesi. Their rotation features the likes of Danny Duffy, Ian Kennedy, and youngsters Jakob Junis and Jorge Lopez. Their bullpen is below average and their closer is slated to be Brad Boxburger.
American League West
1. Houston Astros (98-64)
2. Oakland Athletics (83-79)
3. Los Angeles Angels (77-85)
4. Seattle Mariners (70-92)
5. Texas Rangers (67-95)
This is the Houston Astros division to lose until further notice. They are loaded offensively led by Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, and George Springer. Their rotation will take a bit of a step back with the free agent losses of Charlie Morton and (probably) Dallas Keuchel and the loss of Lance McCullers Jr due to Tommy John Surgery. Josh James and Wade Miley aren't bad replacements for them, but Gerrit Cole (in a contract year) and Justin Verlander should be pitching at a high level although Verlander is aging. Their bullpen is solid with Roberto Osuna closing games and guys like Chris Devenski, Will Harris, Ryan Pressly, and Joe Smith in the pen too. The Oakland Athletics made the playoffs a year ago, but I see a step back. Their offense will mash with the likes of Khris Davis, Matt Olson, Matt Chapman, and Stephen Piscotty. Their rotation will miss Sean Manea, who's recovering from Tommy John. Veterans Mike Fiers and Brett Anderson are in this rotation. The bullpen is very good led by closer Blake Trienen, Fernando Rodney, and Joakim Soria. The Los Angeles Angels could surprise folks this season if things broke their way. Mike Trout is paid now and
he's still the best player in the game. The offense also has solid guys with reigning AL Rookie of the Year Shohei Ohtani (who will only hit this year), Justin Upton and Andrelton Simmons. The rotation is not very good as a whole with the likes of Andrew Heaney, Tyler Skaggs, and Matt Harvey. Their closer is slated to be ex-Indian Cody Allen, but not much else in the pen. The Seattle Mariners are a team that's close to enduring a rebuild. Mitch Haniger is now their best player and their offense also features veterans Kyle Seager, Jay Bruce, and Edwin Encarnacion. Their rotation features Marco Gonzales, Mike Leake, an aging Felix Hernandez, and rookie Yusei Kikucki. Their closer is Hunter Strickland and the bullpen doesn't have much beyond him. The Texas Rangers are a team that's in a rebuild, but really hasn't embraced it. The offense isn't bad and it features Joey Gallo, Nomar Maraza, Asdurbal Cabrera, Rougned Odor, and Shin-Soo Choo. The pitching needs serious work with both the rotation and the pen. The rotation features a ton of mediocre and below average guys with Mike Minor, Lance Lynn, Shelby Miller, Edinson Volquez, and Drew Smyly. Their bullpen isn't good outside of closer Jose Leclerc.
National League East
1. Atlanta Braves (93-69)
2. Philadelphia Phillies (88-74)
3. Washington Nationals (86-76)
4. New York Mets (84-78)
5. Miami Marlins (64-102)
The Atlanta Braves won this division a season ago and they should be favorites to repeat here. Ronald Acuna and Freddie Freeman lead what could be a very good offense. Their rotation should be better with Mike Foltynewicz, Touki Toussant, and Sean Newcomb improving on last season with some prospects potentially coming up too. Their bullpen is the weak link, which they should improve at the deadline, but they do have a solid closer in Arodys Vizcaino. The Philadelphia Phillies will be vastly improved from a season ago. Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto, Andrew McCutchen, and Jean Segura join Rhys Hoskins to form a vastly improved offense. Aaron Nola is an ace and Jake Arrieta is a solid veteran in that rotation too and there are young guys like Nick Piveta and Zach Elfin that could breakout. Their bullpen will be better with the addition of David Robertson to go with Seranthony Dominguez and both of those guys can close. The Washington Nationals are a team that
hopes to bounce back from a dismal season from a year ago. Bryce Harper is gone and the team is now being built around young studs Juan Soto and Victor Robles. Trea Turner and Anthony Rendon are also solid players too. Their rotation is their strength led by Max Scherzer, Stephen Strausburg, and Patrick Corbin. Their bullpen is not bad as it was in years past with closer Sean Doolittle and Trevor Rosenthal. The New York Mets look to improve after a disappointing season from a year ago. Robinson Cano, Wilson Ramos, and Jed Lowrie join an offense featuring Michael Conforto and Brandon Nimmo. The rotation is the strength of their team led by reigning Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard, and Zach Wheeler. Their bullpen is improved with the addition of Edwin Diaz and bringing back Jeurys Familia. The Miami Marlins are still rebuilding and are a lock to finish last in this division. Their offense has potential with guys like Peter O'Brien and Lewis Brinson who could break out. Their starting pitching isn't good, but Jose Urena has shown promise and rookie Sandy Alcantara could surprise people. Their bullpen isn't good either and closer Drew Steckenrider is trade bait.
National League Central
1. Chicago Cubs (95-67)
2. St. Louis Cardinals (92-70) (Wild Card #1)
3. Milwaukee Brewers (90-72) (Wild Card #2)
4. Cincinnati Reds (79-83)
5. Pittsburgh Pirates (71-91)
This division might be the best and deepest one in the league. The Chicago Cubs are my pick to win this division. Their offense will be very good led by Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Javier Baez. Their rotation will be better with better performances from Jon Lester and Yu Darvish and a possible breakout of Jose Quintana. Their bullpen (despite Brandon Morrow missing the first few weeks recovering from shoulder surgery) will be better with the additions of Brad Brach, Xavier Cedeno, and Steve Cishek to go with Pedro Strop. The St. Louis Cardinals should break their three year playoff "drought" this season. Paul Goldschmidt joins a already good offense featuring Matt Carpenter, Marcell Ozuna, and Yadier Molina. Their rotation is their strength led by Carlos Martinez,
Miles Mikolas, Michael Wacha, and Adam Wainwright. The Milwaukee Brewers have a great chance to return to the postseason for the second straight season. Reigning NL MVP Christian Yelich, Lorenzo Cain, Jesus Aguilar, and Mike Moustakas lead the way on offense. Their rotation needs to improve though, although Brandon Woodruff, Zach Davies, and Jhoulys Chacin are solid and the return of Jimmy Nelson is a big wild card. Their bullpen is the teams strength led by Josh Hader, Jeremy Jeffress, and Corey Knebel. The Cincinnati Reds are a team that will be vastly improved. Their offense is loaded with Joey Votto, Eugenio Suarez, Scooter Gennett, and Yasiel Puig. Their rotation should be better with the additions of Alex Wood, Sonny Gray, and Tanner Rorak. Their bullpen isn't bad either led by closer Rasiel Iglesias. The Pittsburgh Pirates are the last place pick by default and are probably the best last place team in the league. The offense won't be bad led by Josh Bell, Starling Marte, Gregory Polanco, and Corey Dickerson. Their starting pitching will be solid with Jameson Taillon leading the way to go with Chris Archer, Trevor Williams, and Nick Kingham. Their bullpen has some good arms including closer Felipe Vasquez.
National League West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (97-65)
2. Colorado Rockies (85-77)
3. San Diego Padres (75-87)
4. Arizona Diamondbacks (69-93)
5. San Francisco Giants (65-97)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the team to beat in this division until proven otherwise. Their offense will be very good with Corey Seager returning from Tommy John surgery to go with Cody Bellinger, Max Muncy, and Justin Turner. Their starting pitching is very good as a whole, despite Clayton Kershaw starting the season on the DL. Walker Buehler is now the team ace and this team also have other solid arms in Rich Hill, Kenta Maeda, Hyun-jin Ryu, and Julio Urias. Their bullpen will be better with the addition of Joe Kelly to go with closer Kenley Jansen, Pedro Baez, and Tony Cingrani. The Colorado Rockies are a team that I can see taking a slim step back. The newly paid Nolan Arenado, Trevor Story, and Charlie Blackmon lead the way offensively. The rotation is improved with Kyle Freeland and German Marquez taking steps forward last season. Their bullpen is solid too led by closer Wade Davis, Sam Oberg, Antonio Senzatela, and Bryan Shaw. The San Diego Padres
will be improved with Manny Machado and prospect Fernando Tatis Jr joining Eric Hosmer, Luis Urias, Hunter Renfroe, Manuel Margot, and Franmil Reyes to make a solid offense. The starting pitching could improve with some possible prospect call up's to go with Joey Luchessi and Eric Lauer. The Arizona Diamondbacks are about to go in to a big rebuild after trading away Paul Goldschmidt. David Peralta, Jake Lamb, Ketel Marte, and Steven Souza Jr are all still around on offense. Zack Greinke and Robbie Ray are still in their rotation and they got Luke Weaver in the Goldschmidt deal. Their bullpen isn't good outside of closer Archie Bradley. The San Francisco Giants are a franchise that needs to start a rebuild. Buster Posey, Brandon Belt, Brandon Crawford, and Evan Longoria lead the way on offense. Madison Bumgarner is in a contract year and is trade bait for sure. He leads their rotation which is not as good with Johnny Cueto out for the year recovering from Tommy John surgery and it features Jeff Samardzija, Derek Holland, and Dereck Rodriguez. Their bullpen is mediocre and Will Smith is their closer.
2019 MLB Playoffs
- AL Wild Card
(WC2) Tampa Bay Rays vs (WC1) Boston Red Sox: Blake Snell vs Chris Sale is a sexy pitching matchup that will get everyone excited, but the Sox are the champs and their offense led by Mookie Betts and JD Martinez will be the difference.
Pick: Red Sox
- NL Wild Card
(WC2) Milwaukee Brewers vs (WC1) St. Louis Cardinals: Should be a great game between these division rivals, but give me the Brewers led by Christian Yelich to move on and get a hard fought road win.
Pick: Brewers
League Division Series
(A-WC1) Boston Red Sox vs (A1) New York Yankees: Last years series between these two was a dud, but this one will be a classic. Home field will be a difference as well as the Yanks improved rotation and bullpen.
Pick: Yankees in five games.
(A3) Cleveland Indians vs (A2) Houston Astros: Last years series between these two was also a dud, but it should be more competitive. The difference here is the Astros core four of Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, and George Springer.
Pick: Astros in four games.
(N-WC2) Milwaukee Brewers vs (N1) Los Angeles Dodgers: NLCS rematch here in the Division Series. Two really good teams, but the Dodgers deeper rotation will be the difference here.
Pick: Dodgers in four games.
(N3) Atlanta Braves vs (N2) Chicago Cubs: This is a sneaky great series between these two contenders. The Cubs big three of Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Javier Baez and their starting pitching with more experience is the difference.
Pick: Cubs in five games.
League Championship Series
(A2) Houston Astros vs (A1) New York Yankees: The AL's best two teams face off here in the league championship series for a 2017 ALCS rematch. This time around I see the Yankees taking this one with a better rotation and bullpen again being the difference as well as a deeper lineup.
Pick: Yankees in six games.
(N2) Chicago Cubs vs (N1) Los Angeles Dodgers: Three times in four seasons these two hook up in the NLCS. This should be a competitive series, but the Dodgers are the better team with advantages in pitching and the deeper lineup.
Pick: Dodgers in six games.
World Series
(N1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs (A1) New York Yankees: This is the World Series that everybody wants. Both of these teams are built similar with deep lineups and starting rotations. The difference here is the Yanks pen, which is deeper than the Dodgers pen, although bullpens have been irrelevant for the last two World Series champions. This is the year that trend changes as the Yanks will hoist their twenty eighth Championship in franchise history.
Pick: Yankees in six games.
American League East
1. New York Yankees (100-62)
2. Boston Red Sox (97-65) (Wild Card #1)
3. Tampa Bay Rays (90-72) (Wild Card #2)
4. Toronto Blue Jays (74-88)
5. Baltimore Orioles (55-107)
The Boston Red Sox may be your reigning World Champions, but the selection to win this division is the New York Yankees. A lot went wrong for the Yanks last season, but they still won 100 games. Aaron Judge is back and healthy, Giancarlo Stanton will be better in his second season in pinstripes, Gary Sanchez is poised for a huge bounce back season, and the rest of this offense will rake. Just wait until Didi Gregorius comes back from Tommy John Surgery. The rotation is improved with the addition of James Paxton and re-signing JA Happ to go with Luis Severino (who won't be back until May due to shoulder inflammation), Masahiro Tanaka, and CC Sabathia. The bullpen is the best in the game led by Aroldis Chapman, Dellin Betances, Zack Britton, and new addition Adam Ottavino. The Red Sox are a team that's still a contender, but is poised to take a step back this season. Their offense is still great led by reigning AL MVP Mookie Betts, JD Martinez, Xander Bogaerts, and Andrew Benintendi. Chris Sale is still their team ace to go with veterans David Price, Nathan Eovaldi, and Rick Porcello in that rotation. Their bullpen is not good after the pending departure of Craig Kimbrel. Their closer is slated to be Matt Barnes, which is not ideal. The Tampa Bay Rays are team that overachieved a year ago and got better during the offseason. Their offense will be better with a full season of Tammy Pham, a possible breakout of Willy Adames, and the additions of Mike Zunino and Yandy Diaz. Their rotation is better with the addition of Charlie Morton to go with the reigning AL Cy Young winner Blake Snell and Tyler Glasnow. They have a ton of good "opener" options with Ryne Stanek and Ryan Yarborough and they have some good relief options including Jose Alvardo. The Toronto Blue Jays are rebuilding and they have a future foundation that will be the left side of the infield of theirs by midseason with Vlad Gurriero Jr and Bo Bichette. They have some veterans on their team too with Justin Smoak and Kendrys Morales. Their rotation has talent on top with Marcus Stroman and Aaron Sanchez. Ken Giles is a closer who's hit or miss. The Baltimore Orioles are the worst team in the majors. Overpaid veterans Mark Trumbo and Chris Davis are still on this team and they have possible trade baits in Trey Mancini and Jonathan Villar. They have an average top three in their rotation with Dylan Bundy, Andrew Cashner, and Alex Cobb and it would not surprise me if those guys are trade bait too. Another trade bait on this squad is closer Mychal Givens.
American League Central
1. Cleveland Indians (92-70)
2. Minnesota Twins (79-83)
3. Chicago White Sox (72-90)
4. Detroit Tigers (64-98)
5. Kansas City Royals (58-102)
The team to beat in this division is the Cleveland Indians. Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez are the foundation pieces of this offense and they have a real breakout candidate in trade acquisition Jake Bauers. Their rotation is the best in the game featuring Corey Kluber, Trevor Bauer, Carlos Corrasco, Mike Clevenger, and Shane Bieber. Their bullpen will miss Cody Allen and Andrew Miller although they still have closer Brad Hand and Adam Cimber. The Minnesota Twins are a team folks are expecting a big jump from. Byron Buxton and Miguel Sano are two guys that have been inconsistent throughout their careers. Jorge Polanco and Eddie Rosario are guys that have shown promise. Jose Berrios is a guy that is capable of being a rotation ace and they have some other average guys in Kyle Gibson, Michael Pineda, and Jake Odorizzi. Their bullpen is not very good and their closer is Trevor May. The Chicago White Sox are a team that wants to improve badly although they missed out on Manny Machado. Their offense will be improved with the additions of Yonder Alonso, Jon Jay, and Wellington Castillo to go with Jose Abreu and Yoan Moncada. The rotation is not good especially
without Michael Kopech, who is out with Tommy John surgery. Carlos Rodon and Reynaldo Lopez showed flashes, but haven't put it together yet. Their closer is Alex Colome, who isn't bad although Kelvin Herrera probably should close for them. The Detroit Tigers are a team that's in the midst of a rebuild. They have a trade bait guy with Nicholas Castellanos, an aging Miguel Cabrera, and two possible building blocks in Jeimer Candelario and Christin Stewart. Michael Fulmer might be getting Tommy John surgery and that takes away a valuable trade chip. Matt Boyd is slated as their ace now and they have the overpaid Jordan Zimmerman in their rotation too. Closer Shane Greene could be trade bait too with a good season. The Kansas City Royals might be the second worst team in the majors with a lengthy rebuild underway. Salvador Perez is out for the season with Tommy John surgery. Their offense will feature possible trade baits in Whit Merrifield and Billy Hamilton and youngsters in Hunter Dozier, Jorge Soler, and Adalberto Mondesi. Their rotation features the likes of Danny Duffy, Ian Kennedy, and youngsters Jakob Junis and Jorge Lopez. Their bullpen is below average and their closer is slated to be Brad Boxburger.
American League West
1. Houston Astros (98-64)
2. Oakland Athletics (83-79)
3. Los Angeles Angels (77-85)
4. Seattle Mariners (70-92)
5. Texas Rangers (67-95)
This is the Houston Astros division to lose until further notice. They are loaded offensively led by Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, and George Springer. Their rotation will take a bit of a step back with the free agent losses of Charlie Morton and (probably) Dallas Keuchel and the loss of Lance McCullers Jr due to Tommy John Surgery. Josh James and Wade Miley aren't bad replacements for them, but Gerrit Cole (in a contract year) and Justin Verlander should be pitching at a high level although Verlander is aging. Their bullpen is solid with Roberto Osuna closing games and guys like Chris Devenski, Will Harris, Ryan Pressly, and Joe Smith in the pen too. The Oakland Athletics made the playoffs a year ago, but I see a step back. Their offense will mash with the likes of Khris Davis, Matt Olson, Matt Chapman, and Stephen Piscotty. Their rotation will miss Sean Manea, who's recovering from Tommy John. Veterans Mike Fiers and Brett Anderson are in this rotation. The bullpen is very good led by closer Blake Trienen, Fernando Rodney, and Joakim Soria. The Los Angeles Angels could surprise folks this season if things broke their way. Mike Trout is paid now and
he's still the best player in the game. The offense also has solid guys with reigning AL Rookie of the Year Shohei Ohtani (who will only hit this year), Justin Upton and Andrelton Simmons. The rotation is not very good as a whole with the likes of Andrew Heaney, Tyler Skaggs, and Matt Harvey. Their closer is slated to be ex-Indian Cody Allen, but not much else in the pen. The Seattle Mariners are a team that's close to enduring a rebuild. Mitch Haniger is now their best player and their offense also features veterans Kyle Seager, Jay Bruce, and Edwin Encarnacion. Their rotation features Marco Gonzales, Mike Leake, an aging Felix Hernandez, and rookie Yusei Kikucki. Their closer is Hunter Strickland and the bullpen doesn't have much beyond him. The Texas Rangers are a team that's in a rebuild, but really hasn't embraced it. The offense isn't bad and it features Joey Gallo, Nomar Maraza, Asdurbal Cabrera, Rougned Odor, and Shin-Soo Choo. The pitching needs serious work with both the rotation and the pen. The rotation features a ton of mediocre and below average guys with Mike Minor, Lance Lynn, Shelby Miller, Edinson Volquez, and Drew Smyly. Their bullpen isn't good outside of closer Jose Leclerc.
National League East
1. Atlanta Braves (93-69)
2. Philadelphia Phillies (88-74)
3. Washington Nationals (86-76)
4. New York Mets (84-78)
5. Miami Marlins (64-102)
The Atlanta Braves won this division a season ago and they should be favorites to repeat here. Ronald Acuna and Freddie Freeman lead what could be a very good offense. Their rotation should be better with Mike Foltynewicz, Touki Toussant, and Sean Newcomb improving on last season with some prospects potentially coming up too. Their bullpen is the weak link, which they should improve at the deadline, but they do have a solid closer in Arodys Vizcaino. The Philadelphia Phillies will be vastly improved from a season ago. Bryce Harper, JT Realmuto, Andrew McCutchen, and Jean Segura join Rhys Hoskins to form a vastly improved offense. Aaron Nola is an ace and Jake Arrieta is a solid veteran in that rotation too and there are young guys like Nick Piveta and Zach Elfin that could breakout. Their bullpen will be better with the addition of David Robertson to go with Seranthony Dominguez and both of those guys can close. The Washington Nationals are a team that
hopes to bounce back from a dismal season from a year ago. Bryce Harper is gone and the team is now being built around young studs Juan Soto and Victor Robles. Trea Turner and Anthony Rendon are also solid players too. Their rotation is their strength led by Max Scherzer, Stephen Strausburg, and Patrick Corbin. Their bullpen is not bad as it was in years past with closer Sean Doolittle and Trevor Rosenthal. The New York Mets look to improve after a disappointing season from a year ago. Robinson Cano, Wilson Ramos, and Jed Lowrie join an offense featuring Michael Conforto and Brandon Nimmo. The rotation is the strength of their team led by reigning Cy Young winner Jacob deGrom, Noah Syndergaard, and Zach Wheeler. Their bullpen is improved with the addition of Edwin Diaz and bringing back Jeurys Familia. The Miami Marlins are still rebuilding and are a lock to finish last in this division. Their offense has potential with guys like Peter O'Brien and Lewis Brinson who could break out. Their starting pitching isn't good, but Jose Urena has shown promise and rookie Sandy Alcantara could surprise people. Their bullpen isn't good either and closer Drew Steckenrider is trade bait.
National League Central
1. Chicago Cubs (95-67)
2. St. Louis Cardinals (92-70) (Wild Card #1)
3. Milwaukee Brewers (90-72) (Wild Card #2)
4. Cincinnati Reds (79-83)
5. Pittsburgh Pirates (71-91)
This division might be the best and deepest one in the league. The Chicago Cubs are my pick to win this division. Their offense will be very good led by Kris Bryant, Anthony Rizzo, and Javier Baez. Their rotation will be better with better performances from Jon Lester and Yu Darvish and a possible breakout of Jose Quintana. Their bullpen (despite Brandon Morrow missing the first few weeks recovering from shoulder surgery) will be better with the additions of Brad Brach, Xavier Cedeno, and Steve Cishek to go with Pedro Strop. The St. Louis Cardinals should break their three year playoff "drought" this season. Paul Goldschmidt joins a already good offense featuring Matt Carpenter, Marcell Ozuna, and Yadier Molina. Their rotation is their strength led by Carlos Martinez,
Miles Mikolas, Michael Wacha, and Adam Wainwright. The Milwaukee Brewers have a great chance to return to the postseason for the second straight season. Reigning NL MVP Christian Yelich, Lorenzo Cain, Jesus Aguilar, and Mike Moustakas lead the way on offense. Their rotation needs to improve though, although Brandon Woodruff, Zach Davies, and Jhoulys Chacin are solid and the return of Jimmy Nelson is a big wild card. Their bullpen is the teams strength led by Josh Hader, Jeremy Jeffress, and Corey Knebel. The Cincinnati Reds are a team that will be vastly improved. Their offense is loaded with Joey Votto, Eugenio Suarez, Scooter Gennett, and Yasiel Puig. Their rotation should be better with the additions of Alex Wood, Sonny Gray, and Tanner Rorak. Their bullpen isn't bad either led by closer Rasiel Iglesias. The Pittsburgh Pirates are the last place pick by default and are probably the best last place team in the league. The offense won't be bad led by Josh Bell, Starling Marte, Gregory Polanco, and Corey Dickerson. Their starting pitching will be solid with Jameson Taillon leading the way to go with Chris Archer, Trevor Williams, and Nick Kingham. Their bullpen has some good arms including closer Felipe Vasquez.
National League West
1. Los Angeles Dodgers (97-65)
2. Colorado Rockies (85-77)
3. San Diego Padres (75-87)
4. Arizona Diamondbacks (69-93)
5. San Francisco Giants (65-97)
The Los Angeles Dodgers are the team to beat in this division until proven otherwise. Their offense will be very good with Corey Seager returning from Tommy John surgery to go with Cody Bellinger, Max Muncy, and Justin Turner. Their starting pitching is very good as a whole, despite Clayton Kershaw starting the season on the DL. Walker Buehler is now the team ace and this team also have other solid arms in Rich Hill, Kenta Maeda, Hyun-jin Ryu, and Julio Urias. Their bullpen will be better with the addition of Joe Kelly to go with closer Kenley Jansen, Pedro Baez, and Tony Cingrani. The Colorado Rockies are a team that I can see taking a slim step back. The newly paid Nolan Arenado, Trevor Story, and Charlie Blackmon lead the way offensively. The rotation is improved with Kyle Freeland and German Marquez taking steps forward last season. Their bullpen is solid too led by closer Wade Davis, Sam Oberg, Antonio Senzatela, and Bryan Shaw. The San Diego Padres
will be improved with Manny Machado and prospect Fernando Tatis Jr joining Eric Hosmer, Luis Urias, Hunter Renfroe, Manuel Margot, and Franmil Reyes to make a solid offense. The starting pitching could improve with some possible prospect call up's to go with Joey Luchessi and Eric Lauer. The Arizona Diamondbacks are about to go in to a big rebuild after trading away Paul Goldschmidt. David Peralta, Jake Lamb, Ketel Marte, and Steven Souza Jr are all still around on offense. Zack Greinke and Robbie Ray are still in their rotation and they got Luke Weaver in the Goldschmidt deal. Their bullpen isn't good outside of closer Archie Bradley. The San Francisco Giants are a franchise that needs to start a rebuild. Buster Posey, Brandon Belt, Brandon Crawford, and Evan Longoria lead the way on offense. Madison Bumgarner is in a contract year and is trade bait for sure. He leads their rotation which is not as good with Johnny Cueto out for the year recovering from Tommy John surgery and it features Jeff Samardzija, Derek Holland, and Dereck Rodriguez. Their bullpen is mediocre and Will Smith is their closer.
2019 MLB Playoffs
- AL Wild Card
(WC2) Tampa Bay Rays vs (WC1) Boston Red Sox: Blake Snell vs Chris Sale is a sexy pitching matchup that will get everyone excited, but the Sox are the champs and their offense led by Mookie Betts and JD Martinez will be the difference.
Pick: Red Sox
- NL Wild Card
(WC2) Milwaukee Brewers vs (WC1) St. Louis Cardinals: Should be a great game between these division rivals, but give me the Brewers led by Christian Yelich to move on and get a hard fought road win.
Pick: Brewers
League Division Series
(A-WC1) Boston Red Sox vs (A1) New York Yankees: Last years series between these two was a dud, but this one will be a classic. Home field will be a difference as well as the Yanks improved rotation and bullpen.
Pick: Yankees in five games.
(A3) Cleveland Indians vs (A2) Houston Astros: Last years series between these two was also a dud, but it should be more competitive. The difference here is the Astros core four of Jose Altuve, Alex Bregman, Carlos Correa, and George Springer.
Pick: Astros in four games.
(N-WC2) Milwaukee Brewers vs (N1) Los Angeles Dodgers: NLCS rematch here in the Division Series. Two really good teams, but the Dodgers deeper rotation will be the difference here.
Pick: Dodgers in four games.
(N3) Atlanta Braves vs (N2) Chicago Cubs: This is a sneaky great series between these two contenders. The Cubs big three of Anthony Rizzo, Kris Bryant, and Javier Baez and their starting pitching with more experience is the difference.
Pick: Cubs in five games.
League Championship Series
(A2) Houston Astros vs (A1) New York Yankees: The AL's best two teams face off here in the league championship series for a 2017 ALCS rematch. This time around I see the Yankees taking this one with a better rotation and bullpen again being the difference as well as a deeper lineup.
Pick: Yankees in six games.
(N2) Chicago Cubs vs (N1) Los Angeles Dodgers: Three times in four seasons these two hook up in the NLCS. This should be a competitive series, but the Dodgers are the better team with advantages in pitching and the deeper lineup.
Pick: Dodgers in six games.
World Series
(N1) Los Angeles Dodgers vs (A1) New York Yankees: This is the World Series that everybody wants. Both of these teams are built similar with deep lineups and starting rotations. The difference here is the Yanks pen, which is deeper than the Dodgers pen, although bullpens have been irrelevant for the last two World Series champions. This is the year that trend changes as the Yanks will hoist their twenty eighth Championship in franchise history.
Pick: Yankees in six games.
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