Lady Indians roll past Washington and Jasper
By Russ Ragan
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians softball team began region play this past week with games against Washington County and Jasper County. Dodge rolled over Washington 10-2. Dodge won a tough road game in a 4-3 win over Jasper County. The Lady Indians, now 8-2 on the year, are currently ranked number two in the state AA polls in the Atlanta Journal Constitution.
It took the Lady Indians a little while to get going against Washington County. They trailed 2-0 going to the better of the first. Logan White got Dodge on the board with a single to right that scored Ava Maxwell who doubled to left center to lead off the inning.
Linzy Bowen then got things under control on the mound. She had four strike outs over the next two innings. Dodge got even in the bottom of the third as White hit a long homer deep over the centerfield fence for a 2-2 game. It was her fifth homer of the year.
Bowen had an easy fourth and then came the Dodge bats. Gracie Lewis got a triple to right with one out and she would score on a wild pitch for a 3-2 lead. The Lady Indians added to the lead as Brooke Perdue singled home Kyla Howell and Ava Maxwell for a 5-2 lead.
Dodge played long ball to add to the lead in the fifth. Catcher Ava Roland hit a deep drive over the left center field fence for her second homer of the year and a 6-2 Dodge lead going to the sixth. Bowen had an easy sixth with a pair of strikeouts in the game.
Makiyah Roberson pushed the Dodge County lead to 7-2 as she singled home Maxwell. The freshman lead off batter scored three runs in the game. Gracie Lewis would end the game as she would single home Roberson and Dylana Barton for the 10-2 final.
Dodge hit the road last Thursday to play region newcomer Jasper County.
The Lady Indians would get the scoring underway in the second. Ava Roland would reach on an error and Dylana Barton would single to lead off the inning. Both Carson Ethridge who ran for Roland and Barton would score on wild pitches and Dodge would take a 2-0 lead. Gracie Lewis would walk and score on a ground out by Jessica Joiner for a 3-0 Dodge lead.
Brooke Perdue would double to lead off the third and score on a wild pitch for a 4-0 lead. Yes, Dodge scored three runs on wild pitches in the game.
Brooke Perdue got the start on the mound for Dodge. The lead remained 4-0 going to the bottom of the fifth. Jasper had four hits, including three infield flies, to get three runs and cut the Dodge lead to 4-3. Perdue would be strong and retire the final six batters in order. She had six strikeouts in the game.
Sports
Lady Indians win two out of three last week
BY RUSS RAGAN
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians won two out of three on the softball field last week including a long marathon.
The marathon would be last Monday as Dodge hosted Northside of Warner Robins. Dodge would never lead until Logan White hit a walk off double for a 9-7 win. Dodge traveled to Cordele over the weekend for the Watermelon Tournament. The Lady Indians were sharp in game one as they beat a good Laurens County team, 9-4. Dodge wasn’t quite as sharp in game two as they dropped a 4-2 game to Pierce County. Dodge will host Bleckley County next Tuesday in a big region match up.
Linzy Bowen got the start as Dodge hosted Northside. The Lady Eagles grabbed the early lead with a three run first. Bowen settled down in the second with an easy inning. Dodge would get on the board in the second as Bailey Harvey reached on an error with one out. She would score on a ground out by Ava Roland to cut the lead to 3-1.
Bowen had an easy third and Dodge would continue to chip away at the plate. Dodge would get within a run in the fourth. Bailey Harvey would single to lead off the inning and steal second and once again, score on a ground out by Ava Roland to cut the lead to 3-2.
Northside would add to the lead in the fifth with three runs for a 6-3 lead. Things didn’t look good but the Lady Indians would battle back. Ava Maxwell would hit a one out single and steal second. She would score on a ground out by Logan White for a 6-3 game.
Bowen would strand a pair of runners in the sixth at second and third on a fly ball to Makiyah Roberson in centerfield. Dodge, yet again, would chip away in the bottom of the sixth. Ava Roland would reach on an error and would advance to third on a pair of wild pitches. Gracie Lewis would single her home for a 6-4 game. Brooke Perdue would single home Carson Ethridge who was running for Lewis for a 6-5 game going into the seventh.
Bowen got a big strikeout with two runners on to keep the game at 6-5 going to the bottom of the seventh. Dylana Barton would walk with one out and she would score the tying run on a double from Ava Roland and Dodge would finally tie the game at 6-6 and to extra innings we go.
Both teams had their chances in the eighth. Both teams left two runners on so to the ninth we go still tied at 6-6. The Lady Eagles would take the lead on an unearned run in the ninth to take a 7-6 lead but Dodge would have the last swing.
Gracie Lewis would double to left center to lead off the Dodge ninth. Ava Maxwell would walk for the third time and that set the table for Brooke Perdue. Things would then get strange. The freshman hit a deep drive to left center and it looked like a walk off three run homer but some how the ball dropped in between the sign and the fence and was still in play. Anyway, Lewis scored and Maxwell would be at third and Perdue was at second for Logan White. The senior hit a deep drive to right center to score both of the freshman runners and Dodge, despite never leading walks it off for a 9-7 win in a game that lasted better than three hours. Linzy Bowen went the whole way for the win.
Dodge had their hands full on Saturday morning as they faced a good Lanier County team. Ava Maxwell reached on an error to lead off the game and he stole second and scored on a ground out by Logan White for a 1-0 Dodge lead. Brooke Perdue got the start for Dodge. She had an easy first including a strikeout. Lanier tied the game on an unearned run in the second but back come the Dodge bats. Perdue walked with one out and Logan White followed up with a single to right center. Makiyah Roberson would double to left center scoring Jessica Joiner who ran for Perdue for a 2-1 Dodge lead. Remember in softball you can run for the pitcher and catcher with no penalty. Dylana Barton would drive in White and Roberson on an error and the Dodge lead would reach 4-1. Lanier would fight back with a pair of runs in the third. Barton would strand the tying run at second with a strikeout and Dodge took a 4-3 lead to the fourth. Dodge would have a strong fourth at the plate. Maxwell would walk with one out. Perdue would double to left center putting runners at second and third. Logan White would single home Maxwell for a 5-3 lead. Roberson would be hit by a pitch to load the bases for Bailey Harvey. The senior came through with a single that scored Joiner and White for a 7-3 game. Roberson would score on an error for an 8-3 game. With two outs, second baseman Dylana Barton would hit a long homer to left center for a 9-3 lead. Perdue would fight off a late rally for a 9-4 Dodge win. The game was called after five innings due to the tournament 90-minute time limit.
Dodge faced Pierce County in their second game. This just wasn’t a good game for Dodge. Linzy Bowen pitched well as she only allowed three earned run but the only Dodge runs came from a hit from Gracie Lewis in the seventh inning scoring Harvey and Roberson but Dodge came up short in a 4-2 loss.
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians won two out of three on the softball field last week including a long marathon.
The marathon would be last Monday as Dodge hosted Northside of Warner Robins. Dodge would never lead until Logan White hit a walk off double for a 9-7 win. Dodge traveled to Cordele over the weekend for the Watermelon Tournament. The Lady Indians were sharp in game one as they beat a good Laurens County team, 9-4. Dodge wasn’t quite as sharp in game two as they dropped a 4-2 game to Pierce County. Dodge will host Bleckley County next Tuesday in a big region match up.
Linzy Bowen got the start as Dodge hosted Northside. The Lady Eagles grabbed the early lead with a three run first. Bowen settled down in the second with an easy inning. Dodge would get on the board in the second as Bailey Harvey reached on an error with one out. She would score on a ground out by Ava Roland to cut the lead to 3-1.
Bowen had an easy third and Dodge would continue to chip away at the plate. Dodge would get within a run in the fourth. Bailey Harvey would single to lead off the inning and steal second and once again, score on a ground out by Ava Roland to cut the lead to 3-2.
Northside would add to the lead in the fifth with three runs for a 6-3 lead. Things didn’t look good but the Lady Indians would battle back. Ava Maxwell would hit a one out single and steal second. She would score on a ground out by Logan White for a 6-3 game.
Bowen would strand a pair of runners in the sixth at second and third on a fly ball to Makiyah Roberson in centerfield. Dodge, yet again, would chip away in the bottom of the sixth. Ava Roland would reach on an error and would advance to third on a pair of wild pitches. Gracie Lewis would single her home for a 6-4 game. Brooke Perdue would single home Carson Ethridge who was running for Lewis for a 6-5 game going into the seventh.
Bowen got a big strikeout with two runners on to keep the game at 6-5 going to the bottom of the seventh. Dylana Barton would walk with one out and she would score the tying run on a double from Ava Roland and Dodge would finally tie the game at 6-6 and to extra innings we go.
Both teams had their chances in the eighth. Both teams left two runners on so to the ninth we go still tied at 6-6. The Lady Eagles would take the lead on an unearned run in the ninth to take a 7-6 lead but Dodge would have the last swing.
Gracie Lewis would double to left center to lead off the Dodge ninth. Ava Maxwell would walk for the third time and that set the table for Brooke Perdue. Things would then get strange. The freshman hit a deep drive to left center and it looked like a walk off three run homer but some how the ball dropped in between the sign and the fence and was still in play. Anyway, Lewis scored and Maxwell would be at third and Perdue was at second for Logan White. The senior hit a deep drive to right center to score both of the freshman runners and Dodge, despite never leading walks it off for a 9-7 win in a game that lasted better than three hours. Linzy Bowen went the whole way for the win.
Dodge had their hands full on Saturday morning as they faced a good Lanier County team. Ava Maxwell reached on an error to lead off the game and he stole second and scored on a ground out by Logan White for a 1-0 Dodge lead. Brooke Perdue got the start for Dodge. She had an easy first including a strikeout. Lanier tied the game on an unearned run in the second but back come the Dodge bats. Perdue walked with one out and Logan White followed up with a single to right center. Makiyah Roberson would double to left center scoring Jessica Joiner who ran for Perdue for a 2-1 Dodge lead. Remember in softball you can run for the pitcher and catcher with no penalty. Dylana Barton would drive in White and Roberson on an error and the Dodge lead would reach 4-1. Lanier would fight back with a pair of runs in the third. Barton would strand the tying run at second with a strikeout and Dodge took a 4-3 lead to the fourth. Dodge would have a strong fourth at the plate. Maxwell would walk with one out. Perdue would double to left center putting runners at second and third. Logan White would single home Maxwell for a 5-3 lead. Roberson would be hit by a pitch to load the bases for Bailey Harvey. The senior came through with a single that scored Joiner and White for a 7-3 game. Roberson would score on an error for an 8-3 game. With two outs, second baseman Dylana Barton would hit a long homer to left center for a 9-3 lead. Perdue would fight off a late rally for a 9-4 Dodge win. The game was called after five innings due to the tournament 90-minute time limit.
Dodge faced Pierce County in their second game. This just wasn’t a good game for Dodge. Linzy Bowen pitched well as she only allowed three earned run but the only Dodge runs came from a hit from Gracie Lewis in the seventh inning scoring Harvey and Roberson but Dodge came up short in a 4-2 loss.
SPORTS
Lady Indians win against Perry, 14-6 and Harlem, 8-4
BY RUSS REGAN
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians got back on the winning track on the softball field with a pair of wins.
On Monday, Dodge rallied from four runs down for a 14-6 win over Perry. On Saturday, Dodge recorded an 8-4 win over Harlem. Dodge does have a schedule change this week as the double header with Southwest Macon has been postponed. It was to be the home region opener. The Lady Indians will travel to West Laurens on Monday and they will host Washington County in the region opener on Tuesday.
Dodge trailed 4-0 to Perry before coming to bat but would get things going with more two out magic. Ava Maxwell led by getting hit by a pitch. Two out later, Makiyah Roberson singled to put two runners on. Back to back hits by pitches to Bailey Harvey and Dylana Barton got Dodge on that board at 4-1. A wild pitch would score Roberson for a 4-2 game. Ava Roland would draw a walk to re-load the bases for Gracie Lewis. The senior came through with a double to right that would unload the bases and five Dodge a 5-4 lead after the first.
The game would be tied at 5-5 before Dodge would take the lead in the bottom of the second. Maxwell would lead off by getting hit by a pitch, for the second time. Dodge would get hit by four pitches in the game. She would score on a sacrifice fly by Makiyah Roberson for a 6-5 Dodge lead.
Perry would tie the game for the last time in the third at 6-6. Dodge would get things going in the bottom of the fourth. Brooke Perdue would lead off the evening with a walk. The Lady Indians would lead for good as Logan White hit a long homer to left for a 8-6 lead. Dodge would carry the momentum to the fifth as Brooke Perdue had a pair of strikeouts for a one, two, three inning.
The Dodge bats would come alive in the bottom of the fifth. Ava Roland would single to lead off the inning. Kyla Howell would walk with one out to put Dodge in business. A wild pitch would score Roland for a 9-6 game. Maxwell would walk and the Perdue would help herself with a hit that would score Howell for a 10-6 game.
That would bring up the hot hitting Logan White. The senior would hit a 3-0 pitch deep over the left field fence for her second homer of the game and fourth of the year for a 13-6 lead. Roberson would follow that with a single. She would score on a triple by Bailey Harvey and that would wrap the game up for the 14-6 win. Brooke Perdue would be the winning pitcher in the game.
The Lady Indians would trail 1-0 to Harlem going to the bottom of the first. Ava Maxwell would lead off with a walk. One out later, Logan White would single and Makiyah Roberson would be hit by a pitch to load the bases. walk for a 2-1 Dodge lead. Bailey Harvey would be hit by a pitch and that would be the game as Maxwell scored for a win. Dylana Barton would have a four pitch walk for a 2-1 Dodge lead. A throwing error would give the Lady Indians the lead in the second. Maxwell led off with a single and then stole second. One out later, she scored a hit to center from Logan White for a 4-1 Dodge lead.
Harlem got back in the game with a pair of runs in the third to make it a 4-3 Dodge lead. Dodge got the bats going with one out in the fifth. Roberson and Harvey would both get singles. Dylana Barton would double to left that would score Roberson for a 5-3 lead. The would bring up sophomore catcher Ava Roland. She had a long nine pitch at bat. She won the battle with style with a long three run homer to left and a big 8-3 lead. Dodge would take a 8-4 win. Brooke Perdue was the winning pitcher for Dodge County.
Last week I left out a long homer by Bailey Harvey in Dodges 8-0 win over Lincoln County. I am very sorry for the mistake.
BY RUSS REGAN
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians got back on the winning track on the softball field with a pair of wins.
On Monday, Dodge rallied from four runs down for a 14-6 win over Perry. On Saturday, Dodge recorded an 8-4 win over Harlem. Dodge does have a schedule change this week as the double header with Southwest Macon has been postponed. It was to be the home region opener. The Lady Indians will travel to West Laurens on Monday and they will host Washington County in the region opener on Tuesday.
Dodge trailed 4-0 to Perry before coming to bat but would get things going with more two out magic. Ava Maxwell led by getting hit by a pitch. Two out later, Makiyah Roberson singled to put two runners on. Back to back hits by pitches to Bailey Harvey and Dylana Barton got Dodge on that board at 4-1. A wild pitch would score Roberson for a 4-2 game. Ava Roland would draw a walk to re-load the bases for Gracie Lewis. The senior came through with a double to right that would unload the bases and five Dodge a 5-4 lead after the first.
The game would be tied at 5-5 before Dodge would take the lead in the bottom of the second. Maxwell would lead off by getting hit by a pitch, for the second time. Dodge would get hit by four pitches in the game. She would score on a sacrifice fly by Makiyah Roberson for a 6-5 Dodge lead.
Perry would tie the game for the last time in the third at 6-6. Dodge would get things going in the bottom of the fourth. Brooke Perdue would lead off the evening with a walk. The Lady Indians would lead for good as Logan White hit a long homer to left for a 8-6 lead. Dodge would carry the momentum to the fifth as Brooke Perdue had a pair of strikeouts for a one, two, three inning.
The Dodge bats would come alive in the bottom of the fifth. Ava Roland would single to lead off the inning. Kyla Howell would walk with one out to put Dodge in business. A wild pitch would score Roland for a 9-6 game. Maxwell would walk and the Perdue would help herself with a hit that would score Howell for a 10-6 game.
That would bring up the hot hitting Logan White. The senior would hit a 3-0 pitch deep over the left field fence for her second homer of the game and fourth of the year for a 13-6 lead. Roberson would follow that with a single. She would score on a triple by Bailey Harvey and that would wrap the game up for the 14-6 win. Brooke Perdue would be the winning pitcher in the game.
The Lady Indians would trail 1-0 to Harlem going to the bottom of the first. Ava Maxwell would lead off with a walk. One out later, Logan White would single and Makiyah Roberson would be hit by a pitch to load the bases. walk for a 2-1 Dodge lead. Bailey Harvey would be hit by a pitch and that would be the game as Maxwell scored for a win. Dylana Barton would have a four pitch walk for a 2-1 Dodge lead. A throwing error would give the Lady Indians the lead in the second. Maxwell led off with a single and then stole second. One out later, she scored a hit to center from Logan White for a 4-1 Dodge lead.
Harlem got back in the game with a pair of runs in the third to make it a 4-3 Dodge lead. Dodge got the bats going with one out in the fifth. Roberson and Harvey would both get singles. Dylana Barton would double to left that would score Roberson for a 5-3 lead. The would bring up sophomore catcher Ava Roland. She had a long nine pitch at bat. She won the battle with style with a long three run homer to left and a big 8-3 lead. Dodge would take a 8-4 win. Brooke Perdue was the winning pitcher for Dodge County.
Last week I left out a long homer by Bailey Harvey in Dodges 8-0 win over Lincoln County. I am very sorry for the mistake.
SPORTS
By Russ Regan
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians opened their 2020 season with three road games. Dodge opened things up on a strong note last Thursday as they took a 10-1 decision over Telfair County.
On Saturday, Dodge traveled to Harlem to play a pair of games in the Harlem Classic. In their first game, Dodge beat Leneola County 8-0. Dodge dropped an 11-5 decision to Jefferson County.
They will host Harlem this Saturday at 11:00 a.m. The Lady Indians will host Northside Warner Robins on Monday at 4:00 p.m. for the junior varsity game and 5:30 for the varsity game.
Dodge County wasted no time getting on the board in the first at Telfair. Area Maxwell walked to lead things off after an eight pitch at bat. One out later, senior third baseman, Logan White hit a deep drive well over the left center field fence for a 2-0 Dodge lead.
Linzy Bowen got the call on the mound in the opener. The Lady Trojans picked up a run to cut the lead to 2-1. Bowen got a pair of strikeouts to keep the lead at 2-1.
Dodge would add to the lead in the third with a two out rally. Bailey Harvey would double to right center. Dylana Barton would follow with a double down the left field line for a 3-1 game. Gracie Lewis would score Barton with a single for a 5-1 lead.
The Dodge outfield defense would then come up big. A single and double would set the Lady Trojans up at second and third and nobody out. The Lady Trojans tried to score on a fly ball to center but Makiyah Roberson made a perfect throw to the plate and Ana Roland made the tag for the double play. Bowen would get a ground ball out to end the inning.
Dodge would put the game on ice with a big fourth and again it was with some big two out hitting. Dylana Barton would single home Logan White for a 5-1 game. Ava Roland would drive home Roberson with a single and the lead reached 6-1. Gracie Lewis got her third hit of the game and Barton scored for a 7-1 lead. Kyla Howell got a two run single that would score Carson Ethridge and Jessica Joiner for a 9-1 lead.
The Lady Trojans got their first two runners on base to start the bottom of the fourth. The Dodge defense would come up big once more.
Freshman left folder Ava Maxwell made a great diving catch for the out. Bowen got the next two and Dodge took a 9-1 lead to the fifth.
Dodge would wrap up the scoring in the fifth. Brooke Perdue would drive in Ava Maxwell for a 10-1 game. Bowen would work around a walk to finish things up in five innings for the 10-1 game.
Dodge got things going in the first inning against Lincoln County. Logan White would single with two out. Makiyah Roberson would double her home for a 1-0 lead.
Freshman Brooke Perdue made her debut on the mound for Dodge. She worked around a one out single with a pair of strikeouts.
The freshman breezed through the next two innings that included four strikeouts.
Dodge went to the long ball to increase the lead in the third. It a deep homer by Logan White to left center to give Dodge a 2-0 lead.
Dodge would finish things up in the sixth. Ava Roland would single home Bailey Harvey with for a 5-0 game. Barton would score on a wild pitch for a 6-0 lead.
Kyla Howell would single home Roland for a 7-0 game. Dodge would wrap up things on a sacrifice fly from Perdue to score Gracie Lewis for the 8-0 final.
The second game didn’t go very well for Dodge. Dodge dropped and 11-5 decision.
Logan White went three for three with a run scored and an RBI. Linzy Bowen added two singles. Makiyah Roberson added a pair of RBI’s and Bailey Harvey and Dylana Barton added RBIs.
The Dodge County High School Lady Indians opened their 2020 season with three road games. Dodge opened things up on a strong note last Thursday as they took a 10-1 decision over Telfair County.
On Saturday, Dodge traveled to Harlem to play a pair of games in the Harlem Classic. In their first game, Dodge beat Leneola County 8-0. Dodge dropped an 11-5 decision to Jefferson County.
They will host Harlem this Saturday at 11:00 a.m. The Lady Indians will host Northside Warner Robins on Monday at 4:00 p.m. for the junior varsity game and 5:30 for the varsity game.
Dodge County wasted no time getting on the board in the first at Telfair. Area Maxwell walked to lead things off after an eight pitch at bat. One out later, senior third baseman, Logan White hit a deep drive well over the left center field fence for a 2-0 Dodge lead.
Linzy Bowen got the call on the mound in the opener. The Lady Trojans picked up a run to cut the lead to 2-1. Bowen got a pair of strikeouts to keep the lead at 2-1.
Dodge would add to the lead in the third with a two out rally. Bailey Harvey would double to right center. Dylana Barton would follow with a double down the left field line for a 3-1 game. Gracie Lewis would score Barton with a single for a 5-1 lead.
The Dodge outfield defense would then come up big. A single and double would set the Lady Trojans up at second and third and nobody out. The Lady Trojans tried to score on a fly ball to center but Makiyah Roberson made a perfect throw to the plate and Ana Roland made the tag for the double play. Bowen would get a ground ball out to end the inning.
Dodge would put the game on ice with a big fourth and again it was with some big two out hitting. Dylana Barton would single home Logan White for a 5-1 game. Ava Roland would drive home Roberson with a single and the lead reached 6-1. Gracie Lewis got her third hit of the game and Barton scored for a 7-1 lead. Kyla Howell got a two run single that would score Carson Ethridge and Jessica Joiner for a 9-1 lead.
The Lady Trojans got their first two runners on base to start the bottom of the fourth. The Dodge defense would come up big once more.
Freshman left folder Ava Maxwell made a great diving catch for the out. Bowen got the next two and Dodge took a 9-1 lead to the fifth.
Dodge would wrap up the scoring in the fifth. Brooke Perdue would drive in Ava Maxwell for a 10-1 game. Bowen would work around a walk to finish things up in five innings for the 10-1 game.
Dodge got things going in the first inning against Lincoln County. Logan White would single with two out. Makiyah Roberson would double her home for a 1-0 lead.
Freshman Brooke Perdue made her debut on the mound for Dodge. She worked around a one out single with a pair of strikeouts.
The freshman breezed through the next two innings that included four strikeouts.
Dodge went to the long ball to increase the lead in the third. It a deep homer by Logan White to left center to give Dodge a 2-0 lead.
Dodge would finish things up in the sixth. Ava Roland would single home Bailey Harvey with for a 5-0 game. Barton would score on a wild pitch for a 6-0 lead.
Kyla Howell would single home Roland for a 7-0 game. Dodge would wrap up things on a sacrifice fly from Perdue to score Gracie Lewis for the 8-0 final.
The second game didn’t go very well for Dodge. Dodge dropped and 11-5 decision.
Logan White went three for three with a run scored and an RBI. Linzy Bowen added two singles. Makiyah Roberson added a pair of RBI’s and Bailey Harvey and Dylana Barton added RBIs.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
It was a wild first week for Major League Baseball. Several more games have been postponed due to the virus. The Marlins and the Phillies have only played three games and none in more than a week. The Braves’ bats have been really good early but will the back end of the rotation give them a chance? We now have seven inning double headers, and it makes sense. We have our answers from college football and it included some big surprises.
Let’s start off with the Braves. It was a good week as they went 5-2, but can they hit enough to overcome the back end of the rotation? A combination of Wright, Toussant, Foltynewicz and Newcomb wasn’t very good to say the least. The foursome went just 23 innings and allowed 24 earned runs. They also walked 18, yet somehow the team is winning. Toussant wasn’t as bad the second time but pitch count got him out of the game after four innings. The week was bizarre for Felty, he was horrible on Monday, a week ago, against Tampa Bay and he was immediately designated for assignment. That means that the team had enough games to trade him or put him on Warriors. They couldn’t deal him so they put him out and every team declined him and the Braves sent him to the alternate camp. That is a shocker for the 2018 all-star. I hope we see top pitching prospect Ian Anderson.
So how are the Braves winning? First of all, the bullpen has been real good. A.J. Minter and Tyler Matzek have been great. In just ten innings they have walked just one and struck out 17. Fred and Soroka have been real good and let’s hope it continues.
The offense has been good but not the “usual suspects”. The top of the order is Acuna, Abbies and Freeman and they have struggled. They’ve had 37 strikeouts in the first ten games. It did look like Acuna was snapping out of it as he had a homer on Saturday and a pair of hits on Sunday.
Where is the offense coming from you ask? Shortstop Dansly Swanson has a pair of homers and 11 RBIs with a .368 average. New outfielder, Marcell Pzuna has three homers and new catcher Travis D’Armond made a huge impact. He had five RBIs on Friday, including a bases loaded double that was the game changer on Friday night.
We have another big rule change, for the year anyway. All double headers are now seven inning games. It looks like there will be a bunch of mess. All minor league double headers are seven inning ones. That’s another rule, along with these rules, that will probably go away after this year. I do like the extra inning rule and I guess it will have a chance to stick around, but I really don’t think so.
The Big 5 College Conferences have made their decisions and I am very surprised. The SEC announced that it will do a ten game conference only schedule with no plus one. That means for the first time since 1924 there will be no Georgia-Georgia Tech game. I really thought you would see a conference plus one schedule especially after the ACC approved the plus one. The season will open September 26 against someone to be determined. On Sunday night, former Bulldog Matt Stafford of the Lions went on the Covid list. This means he has it or has been in contact with someone who’s tested positive. That is different than opting out. He can come back off the Covid list, but once they opt out, their season is over.
More pro football to wrap up and it’s out of the Falcons camp. They signed free agent corner back Darqueze Dennard. He is a former number one draft pick and he played high school ball at Twiggs County. Ironically, he signed with Atlanta the same day Twiggs elected to not play this season due to the virus. The 28 year old will certainly help a very young secondary.
It was a wild first week for Major League Baseball. Several more games have been postponed due to the virus. The Marlins and the Phillies have only played three games and none in more than a week. The Braves’ bats have been really good early but will the back end of the rotation give them a chance? We now have seven inning double headers, and it makes sense. We have our answers from college football and it included some big surprises.
Let’s start off with the Braves. It was a good week as they went 5-2, but can they hit enough to overcome the back end of the rotation? A combination of Wright, Toussant, Foltynewicz and Newcomb wasn’t very good to say the least. The foursome went just 23 innings and allowed 24 earned runs. They also walked 18, yet somehow the team is winning. Toussant wasn’t as bad the second time but pitch count got him out of the game after four innings. The week was bizarre for Felty, he was horrible on Monday, a week ago, against Tampa Bay and he was immediately designated for assignment. That means that the team had enough games to trade him or put him on Warriors. They couldn’t deal him so they put him out and every team declined him and the Braves sent him to the alternate camp. That is a shocker for the 2018 all-star. I hope we see top pitching prospect Ian Anderson.
So how are the Braves winning? First of all, the bullpen has been real good. A.J. Minter and Tyler Matzek have been great. In just ten innings they have walked just one and struck out 17. Fred and Soroka have been real good and let’s hope it continues.
The offense has been good but not the “usual suspects”. The top of the order is Acuna, Abbies and Freeman and they have struggled. They’ve had 37 strikeouts in the first ten games. It did look like Acuna was snapping out of it as he had a homer on Saturday and a pair of hits on Sunday.
Where is the offense coming from you ask? Shortstop Dansly Swanson has a pair of homers and 11 RBIs with a .368 average. New outfielder, Marcell Pzuna has three homers and new catcher Travis D’Armond made a huge impact. He had five RBIs on Friday, including a bases loaded double that was the game changer on Friday night.
We have another big rule change, for the year anyway. All double headers are now seven inning games. It looks like there will be a bunch of mess. All minor league double headers are seven inning ones. That’s another rule, along with these rules, that will probably go away after this year. I do like the extra inning rule and I guess it will have a chance to stick around, but I really don’t think so.
The Big 5 College Conferences have made their decisions and I am very surprised. The SEC announced that it will do a ten game conference only schedule with no plus one. That means for the first time since 1924 there will be no Georgia-Georgia Tech game. I really thought you would see a conference plus one schedule especially after the ACC approved the plus one. The season will open September 26 against someone to be determined. On Sunday night, former Bulldog Matt Stafford of the Lions went on the Covid list. This means he has it or has been in contact with someone who’s tested positive. That is different than opting out. He can come back off the Covid list, but once they opt out, their season is over.
More pro football to wrap up and it’s out of the Falcons camp. They signed free agent corner back Darqueze Dennard. He is a former number one draft pick and he played high school ball at Twiggs County. Ironically, he signed with Atlanta the same day Twiggs elected to not play this season due to the virus. The 28 year old will certainly help a very young secondary.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
Well, it was mostly a great week as Major League Baseball got underway, all be it without fans in the stands. The Braves’ start was good as they won two of the three in New York. Then came Monday morning and the news wasn’t as good. A total of 13 Miami Marlins players and the coaches tested positive for the virus. Let’s hope this doesn’t become a pattern for the short season. Also at anytime we should hear from the SEC and the ACC about the non-conference football games from this fall.
The Braves didn’t get off to the best of starts with the bats anyway against the Mets. They lost the opener on Friday 1-0 despite six shutout innings from Mike Soreka.
The news of Friday started rough as catchers Tyler Flowers and Travis D’ Armand were both not feeling well and were left home despite testing negative for the virus.
Saturday wasn’t looking any better as they trailed 2-1 with two outs in the ninth. Newcomer Marcell Ozuna hit an opposite field homer that tied the game at 2-2 and forced the new extra innings, better known as the “International Tie Breaker”, from the softball people. Dansby Swanson got a lead off RBI single to give the Braves the lead and an eventual 5-3 win.
Finally, the bats came alive on Sunday night. They got homers from Swanson, Albreas, Ozuna and a monster 458 shot from Riley in the 14-1 win. Freeman and Acuna still aren’t hitting just yet but it’s early, sort of. An interesting note, all 30 major league teams have a win and a loss after just three games for many teams.
The last time this happened was 1953, Let’s hope things stay on the field and there is very little talk about off the field. Let’s change things a little and talk football. This week the SEC and the ACC are support to make their decisions about the non-conference football schedule. A possibility that there will be a ten game conference schedule and a plus one. That probably means a rival game like Georgia-Georgia Tech or Florida-Florida State. We should hear something no later than Friday.
Finally, there is NFL news. It is now official that there will be no pre-season games this year. Pre-season camp started yesterday (Tuesday) and will be extended. As was the case with baseball, opting out of contracts this year. One rumor says that it is certainly possible that new Falcons running back Todd Gurley could opt out if the NFL policy doesn’t change. We should hear more soon.
Well, it was mostly a great week as Major League Baseball got underway, all be it without fans in the stands. The Braves’ start was good as they won two of the three in New York. Then came Monday morning and the news wasn’t as good. A total of 13 Miami Marlins players and the coaches tested positive for the virus. Let’s hope this doesn’t become a pattern for the short season. Also at anytime we should hear from the SEC and the ACC about the non-conference football games from this fall.
The Braves didn’t get off to the best of starts with the bats anyway against the Mets. They lost the opener on Friday 1-0 despite six shutout innings from Mike Soreka.
The news of Friday started rough as catchers Tyler Flowers and Travis D’ Armand were both not feeling well and were left home despite testing negative for the virus.
Saturday wasn’t looking any better as they trailed 2-1 with two outs in the ninth. Newcomer Marcell Ozuna hit an opposite field homer that tied the game at 2-2 and forced the new extra innings, better known as the “International Tie Breaker”, from the softball people. Dansby Swanson got a lead off RBI single to give the Braves the lead and an eventual 5-3 win.
Finally, the bats came alive on Sunday night. They got homers from Swanson, Albreas, Ozuna and a monster 458 shot from Riley in the 14-1 win. Freeman and Acuna still aren’t hitting just yet but it’s early, sort of. An interesting note, all 30 major league teams have a win and a loss after just three games for many teams.
The last time this happened was 1953, Let’s hope things stay on the field and there is very little talk about off the field. Let’s change things a little and talk football. This week the SEC and the ACC are support to make their decisions about the non-conference football schedule. A possibility that there will be a ten game conference schedule and a plus one. That probably means a rival game like Georgia-Georgia Tech or Florida-Florida State. We should hear something no later than Friday.
Finally, there is NFL news. It is now official that there will be no pre-season games this year. Pre-season camp started yesterday (Tuesday) and will be extended. As was the case with baseball, opting out of contracts this year. One rumor says that it is certainly possible that new Falcons running back Todd Gurley could opt out if the NFL policy doesn’t change. We should hear more soon.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
It’s finally here! Major League Baseball will get things underway Thursday with the Nationals and Yankees. The Braves and the Mets start off things Friday in the big apple. It was a good and bad week for the Braves and both had to do with the virus. It was a wild week on the pro golf tour. So let’s start with baseball.
It looks like the long awaited start to major league baseball is going to happen. There was only one major league player that tested positive for the Covid virus and that a great sign but the one was almost officially a Brave. The deal died on the table as the 29 year old outfielder tested positive. Due to top prospect Christian Pache begin out with an ankle injury, the Braves are short on outfielders. One food bat available is former Brave and Cardinal Matt Adams. He would make a real good d.h. and he could play a little first base. The good news for the Braves is that Freddie Freeman looks to be ready to start the season. The All-star first baseman tested positive on July 4 and really had a rough time. His temperature shot over 104 and things looked rough for a few days. He started practicing last Friday so hopefully he will be ready to go.
There was other injury news from the Braves camp and it has to do with two off-season pick-ups. Projected closer Will Smith and return starter Cole Hamills will start the season on the injured list. So that means that rookies Kyle Wright or Ian Anderson could have some early season roles. Mike Soroka has been named opening day starter. Max Fried will go in game two. Sean Newsome and Mile Foltmedicz will be in the rotation as well, but who knows after that. I am sure that Melancon will be the closer for a little while until Will Smith is ready to come back.
Don’t forget that there are two other significant rule changes other that the designated hitter. Extra innings will start with a runner on second, just like softball “International Tie Braker”.
Also, all relief pitchers must face at least three batters each. So no more situational lefties. That’s one rule I really like. The 2020 season should be very interesting!
The pro golf tour had its sixth event with the Memorial tournament at Meerfield Village, better know as “Jack’s Place” right outside of Dubler, Ohio. Pro golf is another that is real odd for me to watch with empty stands. The tournament seemed normal until the weekend and then the course got tough.
The greens were hard, the brush was thick and the wind started to really blow. John Rahn from Spain almost blew an eight shot lead with nine holes to go but he hung on the win by three. He received a two shot penalty when he made his ball move in the rough on the 16th hole. Ironically, he chipped the ball in the hole for what would have been a birdie. He became the new worlds number one player with the win.
During Sundays telecast, tournament host, Jack Nicklaus announced that he and his long time wife Barbara both tested positive for Covid back in March. Fortunately both of them are now healthy and they were at the event this weekend.
It’s finally here! Major League Baseball will get things underway Thursday with the Nationals and Yankees. The Braves and the Mets start off things Friday in the big apple. It was a good and bad week for the Braves and both had to do with the virus. It was a wild week on the pro golf tour. So let’s start with baseball.
It looks like the long awaited start to major league baseball is going to happen. There was only one major league player that tested positive for the Covid virus and that a great sign but the one was almost officially a Brave. The deal died on the table as the 29 year old outfielder tested positive. Due to top prospect Christian Pache begin out with an ankle injury, the Braves are short on outfielders. One food bat available is former Brave and Cardinal Matt Adams. He would make a real good d.h. and he could play a little first base. The good news for the Braves is that Freddie Freeman looks to be ready to start the season. The All-star first baseman tested positive on July 4 and really had a rough time. His temperature shot over 104 and things looked rough for a few days. He started practicing last Friday so hopefully he will be ready to go.
There was other injury news from the Braves camp and it has to do with two off-season pick-ups. Projected closer Will Smith and return starter Cole Hamills will start the season on the injured list. So that means that rookies Kyle Wright or Ian Anderson could have some early season roles. Mike Soroka has been named opening day starter. Max Fried will go in game two. Sean Newsome and Mile Foltmedicz will be in the rotation as well, but who knows after that. I am sure that Melancon will be the closer for a little while until Will Smith is ready to come back.
Don’t forget that there are two other significant rule changes other that the designated hitter. Extra innings will start with a runner on second, just like softball “International Tie Braker”.
Also, all relief pitchers must face at least three batters each. So no more situational lefties. That’s one rule I really like. The 2020 season should be very interesting!
The pro golf tour had its sixth event with the Memorial tournament at Meerfield Village, better know as “Jack’s Place” right outside of Dubler, Ohio. Pro golf is another that is real odd for me to watch with empty stands. The tournament seemed normal until the weekend and then the course got tough.
The greens were hard, the brush was thick and the wind started to really blow. John Rahn from Spain almost blew an eight shot lead with nine holes to go but he hung on the win by three. He received a two shot penalty when he made his ball move in the rough on the 16th hole. Ironically, he chipped the ball in the hole for what would have been a birdie. He became the new worlds number one player with the win.
During Sundays telecast, tournament host, Jack Nicklaus announced that he and his long time wife Barbara both tested positive for Covid back in March. Fortunately both of them are now healthy and they were at the event this weekend.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
As we near opening day at last, in major league baseball there are still several questions. In Atlanta, the Braves are starting to run a little short on outfielders and then will their first baseman be ready? I think college football will play, but how many games? I feel confident that the NFL will also but how many people will watch it in person?
Let’s start in Atlanta where the Braves are only a week away from starting the sprint that will be the 60 game season.
There has been very little Freddy Freeman talk since he tested positive for Covid-19. I feel pretty certain that he will not be ready for next Friday’s opener against the Mets. I’d still like Adam Duvall to get a chance to start in Freeman’s place. The Braves will be an outfielder short all year and that is for sure. The question is, who will be the fourth outfielder of Ozona, Arena for sure.
The question is who will be the fourth outfielder? I know Pat Riley and Camargo have seen some action out there and Adam Duvall is an established outfielder but keep in mind that there is a designated hitter this season. The one to look out for is top prospect Christian Pace. He is considered one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball period.
The only question is can he hit enough? I think he will get his chance this year. He is on the Braves 40 man roster so I do expect him to get a chance. Also, veteran-starting pitcher Cole Hands is iffy to start the season due to injury. Word is it isn’t Covid related. Hopefully we will have some questions answered in the next week.
Now, for college football. It looks more and more like non-conference games will not be played this fall. The Big 10 and the PAC 10 have already gotten rid of all non-conference games. The SEC hasn’t made a decision just yet, but I think it’s more likely that it will be an all conference schedule. One scenario is that the Dogs would add Arkansas and Mississippi State to the schedule and play a ten all conference season. That would likely mean NO Georgia-Georgia Tech game this year. They have played every year since 1925. I think we will know something for sure real soon.
If you wondered about football independent Notre Dame? I guess for one year, they could play in the ACC, like they do for all other sports or they could play NAVY, also an independent and call the season good.
We will stay on the football field with the pros to wrap up this week. The question is, how many, if any, fans will be allowed to watch games in person.
The first team that has announced is Jacksonville. The Jags said they go with 25 percent capacity or roughly 16,000 fans. That will probably be the new normal for the 2020 season.
The Falcons will probably be in front with 18 to 20 thousand fans.
Finally, did you know that Georgia’s new smash ball team won the 2019 national championship/ They beat Texas A&M 2-0 in sets for the crown.
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 they didn’t have the spring small ball season.
As we near opening day at last, in major league baseball there are still several questions. In Atlanta, the Braves are starting to run a little short on outfielders and then will their first baseman be ready? I think college football will play, but how many games? I feel confident that the NFL will also but how many people will watch it in person?
Let’s start in Atlanta where the Braves are only a week away from starting the sprint that will be the 60 game season.
There has been very little Freddy Freeman talk since he tested positive for Covid-19. I feel pretty certain that he will not be ready for next Friday’s opener against the Mets. I’d still like Adam Duvall to get a chance to start in Freeman’s place. The Braves will be an outfielder short all year and that is for sure. The question is, who will be the fourth outfielder of Ozona, Arena for sure.
The question is who will be the fourth outfielder? I know Pat Riley and Camargo have seen some action out there and Adam Duvall is an established outfielder but keep in mind that there is a designated hitter this season. The one to look out for is top prospect Christian Pace. He is considered one of the best defensive outfielders in baseball period.
The only question is can he hit enough? I think he will get his chance this year. He is on the Braves 40 man roster so I do expect him to get a chance. Also, veteran-starting pitcher Cole Hands is iffy to start the season due to injury. Word is it isn’t Covid related. Hopefully we will have some questions answered in the next week.
Now, for college football. It looks more and more like non-conference games will not be played this fall. The Big 10 and the PAC 10 have already gotten rid of all non-conference games. The SEC hasn’t made a decision just yet, but I think it’s more likely that it will be an all conference schedule. One scenario is that the Dogs would add Arkansas and Mississippi State to the schedule and play a ten all conference season. That would likely mean NO Georgia-Georgia Tech game this year. They have played every year since 1925. I think we will know something for sure real soon.
If you wondered about football independent Notre Dame? I guess for one year, they could play in the ACC, like they do for all other sports or they could play NAVY, also an independent and call the season good.
We will stay on the football field with the pros to wrap up this week. The question is, how many, if any, fans will be allowed to watch games in person.
The first team that has announced is Jacksonville. The Jags said they go with 25 percent capacity or roughly 16,000 fans. That will probably be the new normal for the 2020 season.
The Falcons will probably be in front with 18 to 20 thousand fans.
Finally, did you know that Georgia’s new smash ball team won the 2019 national championship/ They beat Texas A&M 2-0 in sets for the crown.
Unfortunately, due to Covid-19 they didn’t have the spring small ball season.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
We are now right at the two-week mark of the 2020 baseball season and the Braves potentially got some bad news. The Bulldogs saw a big recruit go another way. We also see the NFL preseason get cut in half, at least. It wasn’t a great week in Georgia sports but hopefully it will get better. Let’s start with the Braves.
The fourth of July didn’t start well as four players tested positive for the Covid-19 virus. All star first baseman Freddie Freeman and new closer Will Smith were among the four. Touki Touseant and utility infielder Pete Kozma were the other two. The news wasn’t so bad for Smith and Touseant as they were A-symptomatic. The news wasn’t as good for Freeman as he was starting to show symptoms. Let’s hope the all star can make a speedy recovery. If he isn’t ready to start the season, my guess is that Adam Duvall may get his chance to play there for a little while. If he is pressed into action, it will be interesting to see what he can do if he can get some steady bats.
The Braves lost another player that was related to the virus but he wasn’t sick. Starting pitcher Felix Hernandez has opted out of his deal. “The King” has a non-roster invite to spring training and it looked like he was going to make the big league club. It’s too bad because I would have liked to have seen if he had something left in the tank. Braves first base coach Eric Young Sr. also has opted out for the 2020 season. And it’s lead by new Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, David Price. There are a couple of huge names that say they are on the fence. San Francisco catcher, Buster Posey and the game’s best player Mike Trout from the Angels haven’t completely made up their minds.
It was a big day last Tuesday (June 30) for the Bulldogs as the nation remembered one cornerback, Tony Grimes as he was announcing his college decision. The Bulldogs were in his final four with North Carolina, Texas A&M and Ohio State. The consensus had him heading to North Carolina and sure enough he is going to be a Tar Heel. I guess being on a winning team wasn’t his top priority. On a better note, 2021 Bulldog to be Brock Handagriff had a huge pro day at the Elite II quarterback camp. He will be in the mix to have a shot at the starting job in Athens next fall.
There was some NFL news this week. The league has decided to shrink the preseason down to just two games. The players association took things one-step further by rioting to get rid of the preseason games all together. It will be interesting to see where that one winds up.
We are now right at the two-week mark of the 2020 baseball season and the Braves potentially got some bad news. The Bulldogs saw a big recruit go another way. We also see the NFL preseason get cut in half, at least. It wasn’t a great week in Georgia sports but hopefully it will get better. Let’s start with the Braves.
The fourth of July didn’t start well as four players tested positive for the Covid-19 virus. All star first baseman Freddie Freeman and new closer Will Smith were among the four. Touki Touseant and utility infielder Pete Kozma were the other two. The news wasn’t so bad for Smith and Touseant as they were A-symptomatic. The news wasn’t as good for Freeman as he was starting to show symptoms. Let’s hope the all star can make a speedy recovery. If he isn’t ready to start the season, my guess is that Adam Duvall may get his chance to play there for a little while. If he is pressed into action, it will be interesting to see what he can do if he can get some steady bats.
The Braves lost another player that was related to the virus but he wasn’t sick. Starting pitcher Felix Hernandez has opted out of his deal. “The King” has a non-roster invite to spring training and it looked like he was going to make the big league club. It’s too bad because I would have liked to have seen if he had something left in the tank. Braves first base coach Eric Young Sr. also has opted out for the 2020 season. And it’s lead by new Los Angeles Dodgers pitcher, David Price. There are a couple of huge names that say they are on the fence. San Francisco catcher, Buster Posey and the game’s best player Mike Trout from the Angels haven’t completely made up their minds.
It was a big day last Tuesday (June 30) for the Bulldogs as the nation remembered one cornerback, Tony Grimes as he was announcing his college decision. The Bulldogs were in his final four with North Carolina, Texas A&M and Ohio State. The consensus had him heading to North Carolina and sure enough he is going to be a Tar Heel. I guess being on a winning team wasn’t his top priority. On a better note, 2021 Bulldog to be Brock Handagriff had a huge pro day at the Elite II quarterback camp. He will be in the mix to have a shot at the starting job in Athens next fall.
There was some NFL news this week. The league has decided to shrink the preseason down to just two games. The players association took things one-step further by rioting to get rid of the preseason games all together. It will be interesting to see where that one winds up.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
There is still a whole lot more talking than action in the world of sports right now. I still think that Major League Baseball will play but the big question will be how many games will be played. The pro golf tour will get back underway this weekend. They also announced when at least some fans would be able to attend events. There was also some big news from the Augusta National Golf Club.
Let’s start on the diamond with baseball. The players and owners have agreed to some things; there will be a designated hitter in both leagues for this year anyway. I wouldn’t be shocked to see that stay for good.
The second agreement is that the players will have their contracts pro-rated based on the number of games played. That is where things have hit a big standing point. The players purposed a 114 game season, meanwhile, the owners purposed a season that would only be 50 to 60 games. I know that is a bunch apart, but both sides think there will be a deal done. I still think we will have baseball by July 4.
Also, unfortunately, there will be no minor league season this year. All teams will have a real big team this year. The exact number hasn’t been announced yet.
The baseball draft will be held this week. It will only be five rounds this year compared to 40 in the past.
There are a couple of Georgia baseball pitchers that should go in the first round. Right-handed pitcher Emerson Hancock and Cole Wilcox should hear their names called early. Hancock should be a top 10 pick.
The Bulldogs were ranked number two in the nation when the season got shutdown in March.
The Braves have the 25th pick on Wednesday night. The draft will be televised by the Major League Baseball network and ESPN this Wednesday (tonight) and Thursday night starting at 7:00 p.m.
Let’s talk Braves for a minute. They will be well prepared for the designated hitter this year. They can use Austen Riley, Nick Markakes and even give Freddie Freeman a night off to be designated hitter.
Speaking of the draft, I think they will go after more starting pitching. They always seem to draft a bunch of starters. They didn’t go that route last year, so we will have to see.
We all remember the greatest moment in Atlanta Braves history when Marquis Grissom caught Carlos Baerga’s fly ball to end the 1995 World Series. Awesome night! The announcer said, “The team of the 90s finally has their world championship.” That was a great moment, without question, but were they the team of the 90s? True they won the division eight times and made it to the World Series five times and those were impressive, but only the one championship. It took four first ballot hall of famers, Chipper, Maddox, Glavine and Smoltz and McGriff should be.
The Yankees won three championships in the 90s and the Blue Jays and the Marlins had two a piece.
The Marlins, as you may recall, won both as wildcard teams.
The Nationals won the 2019 championship also as a wild card team. Of course, the Braves won the division all three times. The Braves had a real good run for 15 years but you can’t confuse them with Jordan and the Bulls, they were six for six in championship series.
Also, they was no Brady and New England because they know how to finish. On the football field, not the golf course.
How many of those division championships would you give back to win another series? One or two? If you see me around, let me hear your opinion.
Speaking of golf, the PGA tour returns this weekend. The tour returns to Colonial Country Club starting Thursday. It is a loaded field, even though Tiger will not be there.
There will be no fans but the team did announce when some fans will be back. Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, the memorial, will welcome 8000 fans, (about 20% of regular fans) will be allowed to watch. The event was re-scheduled for July 16-19 at Meer Field Village in Columbus, Ohio. It is good to see some attempt at normalcy.
There was also some big news from Augusta National Golf Club. If you have ever been to the Masters, you know it’s in downtown Augusta. There is a shopping center across from the club. It includes the Fresh Market grocery store and other stores like Wendy’s and Publix.
The Augusta National Golf Club, for right at 27 million, has bought all the property. That puts it right at 67 million the club has spent on property in the last 20 years.
I would guess the land would be used for a parking lot, but knowing the club, who knows? On thing is for sure, it will probably be ready to go by the November 12 date for the year’s first round.
There is still a whole lot more talking than action in the world of sports right now. I still think that Major League Baseball will play but the big question will be how many games will be played. The pro golf tour will get back underway this weekend. They also announced when at least some fans would be able to attend events. There was also some big news from the Augusta National Golf Club.
Let’s start on the diamond with baseball. The players and owners have agreed to some things; there will be a designated hitter in both leagues for this year anyway. I wouldn’t be shocked to see that stay for good.
The second agreement is that the players will have their contracts pro-rated based on the number of games played. That is where things have hit a big standing point. The players purposed a 114 game season, meanwhile, the owners purposed a season that would only be 50 to 60 games. I know that is a bunch apart, but both sides think there will be a deal done. I still think we will have baseball by July 4.
Also, unfortunately, there will be no minor league season this year. All teams will have a real big team this year. The exact number hasn’t been announced yet.
The baseball draft will be held this week. It will only be five rounds this year compared to 40 in the past.
There are a couple of Georgia baseball pitchers that should go in the first round. Right-handed pitcher Emerson Hancock and Cole Wilcox should hear their names called early. Hancock should be a top 10 pick.
The Bulldogs were ranked number two in the nation when the season got shutdown in March.
The Braves have the 25th pick on Wednesday night. The draft will be televised by the Major League Baseball network and ESPN this Wednesday (tonight) and Thursday night starting at 7:00 p.m.
Let’s talk Braves for a minute. They will be well prepared for the designated hitter this year. They can use Austen Riley, Nick Markakes and even give Freddie Freeman a night off to be designated hitter.
Speaking of the draft, I think they will go after more starting pitching. They always seem to draft a bunch of starters. They didn’t go that route last year, so we will have to see.
We all remember the greatest moment in Atlanta Braves history when Marquis Grissom caught Carlos Baerga’s fly ball to end the 1995 World Series. Awesome night! The announcer said, “The team of the 90s finally has their world championship.” That was a great moment, without question, but were they the team of the 90s? True they won the division eight times and made it to the World Series five times and those were impressive, but only the one championship. It took four first ballot hall of famers, Chipper, Maddox, Glavine and Smoltz and McGriff should be.
The Yankees won three championships in the 90s and the Blue Jays and the Marlins had two a piece.
The Marlins, as you may recall, won both as wildcard teams.
The Nationals won the 2019 championship also as a wild card team. Of course, the Braves won the division all three times. The Braves had a real good run for 15 years but you can’t confuse them with Jordan and the Bulls, they were six for six in championship series.
Also, they was no Brady and New England because they know how to finish. On the football field, not the golf course.
How many of those division championships would you give back to win another series? One or two? If you see me around, let me hear your opinion.
Speaking of golf, the PGA tour returns this weekend. The tour returns to Colonial Country Club starting Thursday. It is a loaded field, even though Tiger will not be there.
There will be no fans but the team did announce when some fans will be back. Jack Nicklaus’ tournament, the memorial, will welcome 8000 fans, (about 20% of regular fans) will be allowed to watch. The event was re-scheduled for July 16-19 at Meer Field Village in Columbus, Ohio. It is good to see some attempt at normalcy.
There was also some big news from Augusta National Golf Club. If you have ever been to the Masters, you know it’s in downtown Augusta. There is a shopping center across from the club. It includes the Fresh Market grocery store and other stores like Wendy’s and Publix.
The Augusta National Golf Club, for right at 27 million, has bought all the property. That puts it right at 67 million the club has spent on property in the last 20 years.
I would guess the land would be used for a parking lot, but knowing the club, who knows? On thing is for sure, it will probably be ready to go by the November 12 date for the year’s first round.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
Okay, the world of sports was similar to last weekend as a charity team golf event and a Nascar event led things off. There is hope that major league and the NBA will be getting back to play soon. The Falcons sign another former number one draft pick and maybe some pro wrestling news as well.
Let’s start on the golf course as Tiger Woods and Phil Michelson lead the match part two. It would be Woods and Peyton Manning, a seven handicap against Michelson and Tom Brady, an eight? handicap. Of course all the proceeds, right at 20 million, went to Covid-19 relief. It was played on Tiger’s home course and it was a huge advantage early. The Woods duo had a three up lead after just six holes. Got to give Manning credit; he played really well to get an early start.
On the other hand, Brady was, for the lack of a better word, not good. Phil wasn’t especially good early either. Brady actually had a birdie on the front nine on a miracle shot. The weather was horrible on the back nine as Phil and Tom made a comeback with an eagle on the 11th and a birdie getting them back to just one down. They could get no closer as Tiger and Peyton took the match. This makes Tiger and Phil at a win each in charity matches. I do expect a third match somewhere in the future. It was a great match to watch on television. I would like to see a re-match down the road, maybe with Michael Jordan as Phil’s partner.
Speaking of M.J. I hope you get the chance to see The Last Dance series; it was incredible. Now, to the track with Brad Kieslowski who won the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte. He beat Jimmy Johnson at the end. Sorry, but that’s the extent of the knowledge I have on the event.
Now, back to some sports I know slightly better. We should get more information from major league baseball this week. It seems like revenue sharing is the big hold up on getting the players back to camp.
Let’s hope things work out because the Korean baseball is starting to get a little old. Things seem to be getting further along for the NBA. It looks like all teams could be heading to Disney in Orlando to wrap up the season. Let’s hope the Hawks lose most of the 15 remaining games so it will help in the draft. Maybe things can start with baseball and basketball in July.
There is more Flacon news so it must mean another former number one draft pick signing. They signed Arizona’s number one pick from 2014 in Deone Bucannon. He can play safety and linebacker. He has played for two more teams, so maybe the Falcons will hit on this one.
Let’s finish things up with some pro-wrestling news. I hope you are watching AEW on Wednesday nights on TNT. I think it’s actually a lot better than the current WWE product. They feature several big present and past names like Jake “the snake” Roberts and An Anderson. Former boxing champion Mike Tyson will make an appearance this Wednesday. The rumor going around is that Sting could be heading there soon. I think he would make a great addition to the company.
Okay, the world of sports was similar to last weekend as a charity team golf event and a Nascar event led things off. There is hope that major league and the NBA will be getting back to play soon. The Falcons sign another former number one draft pick and maybe some pro wrestling news as well.
Let’s start on the golf course as Tiger Woods and Phil Michelson lead the match part two. It would be Woods and Peyton Manning, a seven handicap against Michelson and Tom Brady, an eight? handicap. Of course all the proceeds, right at 20 million, went to Covid-19 relief. It was played on Tiger’s home course and it was a huge advantage early. The Woods duo had a three up lead after just six holes. Got to give Manning credit; he played really well to get an early start.
On the other hand, Brady was, for the lack of a better word, not good. Phil wasn’t especially good early either. Brady actually had a birdie on the front nine on a miracle shot. The weather was horrible on the back nine as Phil and Tom made a comeback with an eagle on the 11th and a birdie getting them back to just one down. They could get no closer as Tiger and Peyton took the match. This makes Tiger and Phil at a win each in charity matches. I do expect a third match somewhere in the future. It was a great match to watch on television. I would like to see a re-match down the road, maybe with Michael Jordan as Phil’s partner.
Speaking of M.J. I hope you get the chance to see The Last Dance series; it was incredible. Now, to the track with Brad Kieslowski who won the Coca-Cola 600 in Charlotte. He beat Jimmy Johnson at the end. Sorry, but that’s the extent of the knowledge I have on the event.
Now, back to some sports I know slightly better. We should get more information from major league baseball this week. It seems like revenue sharing is the big hold up on getting the players back to camp.
Let’s hope things work out because the Korean baseball is starting to get a little old. Things seem to be getting further along for the NBA. It looks like all teams could be heading to Disney in Orlando to wrap up the season. Let’s hope the Hawks lose most of the 15 remaining games so it will help in the draft. Maybe things can start with baseball and basketball in July.
There is more Flacon news so it must mean another former number one draft pick signing. They signed Arizona’s number one pick from 2014 in Deone Bucannon. He can play safety and linebacker. He has played for two more teams, so maybe the Falcons will hit on this one.
Let’s finish things up with some pro-wrestling news. I hope you are watching AEW on Wednesday nights on TNT. I think it’s actually a lot better than the current WWE product. They feature several big present and past names like Jake “the snake” Roberts and An Anderson. Former boxing champion Mike Tyson will make an appearance this Wednesday. The rumor going around is that Sting could be heading there soon. I think he would make a great addition to the company.
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
It was really nice to see a version of live sports over the weekend! Golf and Nascar took center stage even though there were no fans in the stands. There was some major league news too and some very unusual ones at that. Also, there will be a personal confession as well.
Let’s start out on the golf course as a charity golf game got things going. All the money, over five million total, went to COVID-19 causes. The teams seemed a little one sided on paper, but you can never play golf on paper. The world’s number one Rory McElroy and number five Dustin Johnson played Rickie Fowler and twenty one year old Matthew Wolff. Both Wolff and Fowler played college golf at Oklahoma State, not at the same time, so I guess that was the connection. There were some unusual things to say the least. Mainly, the players had to carry their own bags as no caddies were allowed. The players also wore shorts, which are banned on the regular tour. The great Seminole Golf Club just outside of West Palm Beach, Florida was a really good test. All the players showed some rust and I think it helped the underdogs. Fowler played really well with seven birdies, but in the end it was Johnson and McElroy that came out on top in a sudden death match closest to the pin.
Charity team golf is also on top for the weekend but this one promises to be more interesting. It will feature hall of fame quarterback Peyton Manning and Tiger Woods going up against Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson. This one will be best ball on the front nine but alternate shots on the back. It should be interesting to see how the golfers respond after being put in trouble by the quarterbacks. I will give the advantage to Phil and Tom because Mickelson is more used to the trouble. Both of the quarterbacks are good players, but being out of their element, will make nerves a big ride. It will be played this Sunday and will start at 3:00 on TNT and TBS.
Nascar also made its comeback on Sunday. This one counted in their season standings. I will be the very first to confess I know nothing about the sport. I remember names like Petty, Elliott, Gordon and Earnhardt and that’s it!
Kevin Harrick won in Darlington over the weekend with no fans. I would certainly think that TV ratings were very good for both racing and golf.
Now for baseball; we know some thinks like there is a proposed 82 game season and there will be bigger rosters. Nothing is official yet as revenue sharing between the players and owners are an issue. I do see that not being an issue in the long run. Now the unusual rules; there will be first and third base coaches with signals. I guess you have numbered signals yelled from the dugouts? No spitting at all, whether it be seeds or whatever. I wonder what the penalty will be? No high fines and the batters must wear batting gloves! It goes without saying, all players and personnel will be tested often and they also must shower after the game in shifts! I am sure all of these rules will be adjusted, some before things get started. Also, the designated hitter will likely be used for all teams.
I hope you have had the chance to watch some of the Braves playoff games from the 90s on Sports South. Recently, I watched game six of the National League Championship from 1999 against the Mets. It was a wild game where the Braves eventually won 10-9. I take a lot of pride in knowing my baseball, especially the Braves, but here is my confession. The game was 8-8 in the 8th where the Braves sent Howard Battle to pinch-hit. My mom, who has a very good baseball mind as well, said who is he? I had to admit that I did not know! It was a shocking moment in the Ragan household. By the way, Battle struck out and yes that was his final at bat for the Braves. I think!
It was really nice to see a version of live sports over the weekend! Golf and Nascar took center stage even though there were no fans in the stands. There was some major league news too and some very unusual ones at that. Also, there will be a personal confession as well.
Let’s start out on the golf course as a charity golf game got things going. All the money, over five million total, went to COVID-19 causes. The teams seemed a little one sided on paper, but you can never play golf on paper. The world’s number one Rory McElroy and number five Dustin Johnson played Rickie Fowler and twenty one year old Matthew Wolff. Both Wolff and Fowler played college golf at Oklahoma State, not at the same time, so I guess that was the connection. There were some unusual things to say the least. Mainly, the players had to carry their own bags as no caddies were allowed. The players also wore shorts, which are banned on the regular tour. The great Seminole Golf Club just outside of West Palm Beach, Florida was a really good test. All the players showed some rust and I think it helped the underdogs. Fowler played really well with seven birdies, but in the end it was Johnson and McElroy that came out on top in a sudden death match closest to the pin.
Charity team golf is also on top for the weekend but this one promises to be more interesting. It will feature hall of fame quarterback Peyton Manning and Tiger Woods going up against Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson. This one will be best ball on the front nine but alternate shots on the back. It should be interesting to see how the golfers respond after being put in trouble by the quarterbacks. I will give the advantage to Phil and Tom because Mickelson is more used to the trouble. Both of the quarterbacks are good players, but being out of their element, will make nerves a big ride. It will be played this Sunday and will start at 3:00 on TNT and TBS.
Nascar also made its comeback on Sunday. This one counted in their season standings. I will be the very first to confess I know nothing about the sport. I remember names like Petty, Elliott, Gordon and Earnhardt and that’s it!
Kevin Harrick won in Darlington over the weekend with no fans. I would certainly think that TV ratings were very good for both racing and golf.
Now for baseball; we know some thinks like there is a proposed 82 game season and there will be bigger rosters. Nothing is official yet as revenue sharing between the players and owners are an issue. I do see that not being an issue in the long run. Now the unusual rules; there will be first and third base coaches with signals. I guess you have numbered signals yelled from the dugouts? No spitting at all, whether it be seeds or whatever. I wonder what the penalty will be? No high fines and the batters must wear batting gloves! It goes without saying, all players and personnel will be tested often and they also must shower after the game in shifts! I am sure all of these rules will be adjusted, some before things get started. Also, the designated hitter will likely be used for all teams.
I hope you have had the chance to watch some of the Braves playoff games from the 90s on Sports South. Recently, I watched game six of the National League Championship from 1999 against the Mets. It was a wild game where the Braves eventually won 10-9. I take a lot of pride in knowing my baseball, especially the Braves, but here is my confession. The game was 8-8 in the 8th where the Braves sent Howard Battle to pinch-hit. My mom, who has a very good baseball mind as well, said who is he? I had to admit that I did not know! It was a shocking moment in the Ragan household. By the way, Battle struck out and yes that was his final at bat for the Braves. I think!
SPORTS
BY RUSS REGAN
Okay folks, here we are again and hopefully things are starting to turn the corner. We have our first live, in America, sporting event this weekend. American MLB is close to coming back and we have an official NFL schedule released. Let’s just hope some fans can attend the games, sooner than later.
The biggest news came from baseball as it looks like spring training part two isn’t far away. A middle of June date has been thrown out there for teams to gather to get ready for a shortened 2020 season. The official word should come this week but it looks like an 80 game season that will start the first of July. The word is that the schedule will be mostly division games and possibly regional matchups like maybe, Boston? The idea of putting teams in three regions isn’t likely to happen. It does look like the teams will have bigger rosters even though a number hasn’t been released just yet. I did watch some Korean baseball late Saturday night. It was live and yes, it was pretty good. The stands were empty of course, but it can’t compete with the American game.
Live sports will return to television this weekend, as a charity news golf game will be on NBC. It will be a team event, as Rory McLilroy and Dustin Johnson will take on Rickie Fowler and young Matthew Wolff. Yes, on paper it looks like a mismatch but who knows what can happen. That will take place on Saturday afternoon. The next weekend also has a team charity event and this one will be huge. It will feature Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson going against Peyton Manning and Tiger Woods. This one should be great to watch. The first nine holes will be best ball and the back nine will be alternate shot. This is the second time Phil and Tiger have hooked up in a big charity event. Phil beat Tiger in a playoff in 2018. This one will be on Sunday the 24th at 3:00 p.m. It will be on TBS and TNT.
The NFL schedules were officially released on Thursday. The NFL Network made it into a three-hour primetime presentation. This will be a tough one for the Falcons. Let’s take a look at things. The NFL South will be tough. Honestly, I don’t see a win over Tampa or New Orleans. I think that a split with Carolina is likely so that 1-5 to start with and the non-division games are tough. They have a rough road schedule. They play in Green Bay, Dallas, Minnesota and Super Bowl Champion Kansas City. I don’t see a realistic win in these four at all. The home schedule is more possible as they host Seattle, Chicago, Denver and the Las Vegas Raiders. The opener against the Seahawks looks rough but the rest are possible. On paper this looks like a 6-10 or 7-9 record, Things don’t look good for Dan Quinn and company this fall. Of course, you don’t pay football on paper, so who knows what may happen?
Okay folks, here we are again and hopefully things are starting to turn the corner. We have our first live, in America, sporting event this weekend. American MLB is close to coming back and we have an official NFL schedule released. Let’s just hope some fans can attend the games, sooner than later.
The biggest news came from baseball as it looks like spring training part two isn’t far away. A middle of June date has been thrown out there for teams to gather to get ready for a shortened 2020 season. The official word should come this week but it looks like an 80 game season that will start the first of July. The word is that the schedule will be mostly division games and possibly regional matchups like maybe, Boston? The idea of putting teams in three regions isn’t likely to happen. It does look like the teams will have bigger rosters even though a number hasn’t been released just yet. I did watch some Korean baseball late Saturday night. It was live and yes, it was pretty good. The stands were empty of course, but it can’t compete with the American game.
Live sports will return to television this weekend, as a charity news golf game will be on NBC. It will be a team event, as Rory McLilroy and Dustin Johnson will take on Rickie Fowler and young Matthew Wolff. Yes, on paper it looks like a mismatch but who knows what can happen. That will take place on Saturday afternoon. The next weekend also has a team charity event and this one will be huge. It will feature Tom Brady and Phil Mickelson going against Peyton Manning and Tiger Woods. This one should be great to watch. The first nine holes will be best ball and the back nine will be alternate shot. This is the second time Phil and Tiger have hooked up in a big charity event. Phil beat Tiger in a playoff in 2018. This one will be on Sunday the 24th at 3:00 p.m. It will be on TBS and TNT.
The NFL schedules were officially released on Thursday. The NFL Network made it into a three-hour primetime presentation. This will be a tough one for the Falcons. Let’s take a look at things. The NFL South will be tough. Honestly, I don’t see a win over Tampa or New Orleans. I think that a split with Carolina is likely so that 1-5 to start with and the non-division games are tough. They have a rough road schedule. They play in Green Bay, Dallas, Minnesota and Super Bowl Champion Kansas City. I don’t see a realistic win in these four at all. The home schedule is more possible as they host Seattle, Chicago, Denver and the Las Vegas Raiders. The opener against the Seahawks looks rough but the rest are possible. On paper this looks like a 6-10 or 7-9 record, Things don’t look good for Dan Quinn and company this fall. Of course, you don’t pay football on paper, so who knows what may happen?
SPORTS
BY: RUSS REGAN
Unlike last weekend, with the NFL draft, there weren’t any live sports over the weekend.
We had some things like a virtual Kentucky Derby and actually a Falcons trade. Also, Major League Baseball had some news that is somewhat optimistic.
As most of you know, Saturday was suppose to be the running of the Kentucky Derby. Of course, it was not run but a “virtual” version was done. It was an “all-star race” so to speak as is was only run with triple crown winners.
The 1977 winner Seattle Slew had the lead until the stretch until the greatest of all-time made his move. Secretariat, the 1973 winner would win in the end. No margin of victory was given.
The good news is there will be a real Kentucky Derby, we hope, September 5, 2020.
I admit I made a big deal out of the Falcons not making a trade in last weekend’s draft, but they wasted little time making a very small but questionable one.
They sent a seventh round pick to the Dolphins for former number one pick Charles Harris. He was the Dolphins top pick the 23rd overall from Missouri. He is a defensive end that has produced virtually nothing. He has just 3.5 sacks in his three years and he is no longer a starter. He will make just less than two million dollars this season. He was due over ten million option for 2021; fortunately the Falcons declined the option.
Speaking of options, the Falcons have declined the option on their own top pick of the 2017 draft. Defensive end Takk McKenley has had a rough three years as a Falcon and has had shoulder issues. If you were wondering, yes, the Falcons did trade a third round pick to move up to get him. Maybe the team can dump him for a seventh round to get the other pick back.
There was other Falcon news as it was announced that their game in London has been moved back to Atlanta. They were scheduled to play Denver but the game was moved back to Atlanta. They were scheduled to play Denver but that game has been moved due to obvious reasons.
Also there were projections for the compensatory picks for the 2012 draft. The picks are given to teams that lost players to free agencies. Austin Hooper and Devonte Campbell. It looks like they may get on extra fifth round pick and possibly a pair of sixth rounder’s.
The NFL will officially name those awarded picks the first of May.
The powers that be in major league baseball say that it looks hopeful that teams will play in their home ballparks when the season starts. Baseball has several other plans like the three divisions on spring training sights. It is hopeful that the season will start late June or early July. There is no set on the number of games on the schedule yet. I know that 100 games and possibly an early December world series are hopeful. It doesn’t look like the fans will be in the stadiums when the season starts.
Unlike last weekend, with the NFL draft, there weren’t any live sports over the weekend.
We had some things like a virtual Kentucky Derby and actually a Falcons trade. Also, Major League Baseball had some news that is somewhat optimistic.
As most of you know, Saturday was suppose to be the running of the Kentucky Derby. Of course, it was not run but a “virtual” version was done. It was an “all-star race” so to speak as is was only run with triple crown winners.
The 1977 winner Seattle Slew had the lead until the stretch until the greatest of all-time made his move. Secretariat, the 1973 winner would win in the end. No margin of victory was given.
The good news is there will be a real Kentucky Derby, we hope, September 5, 2020.
I admit I made a big deal out of the Falcons not making a trade in last weekend’s draft, but they wasted little time making a very small but questionable one.
They sent a seventh round pick to the Dolphins for former number one pick Charles Harris. He was the Dolphins top pick the 23rd overall from Missouri. He is a defensive end that has produced virtually nothing. He has just 3.5 sacks in his three years and he is no longer a starter. He will make just less than two million dollars this season. He was due over ten million option for 2021; fortunately the Falcons declined the option.
Speaking of options, the Falcons have declined the option on their own top pick of the 2017 draft. Defensive end Takk McKenley has had a rough three years as a Falcon and has had shoulder issues. If you were wondering, yes, the Falcons did trade a third round pick to move up to get him. Maybe the team can dump him for a seventh round to get the other pick back.
There was other Falcon news as it was announced that their game in London has been moved back to Atlanta. They were scheduled to play Denver but the game was moved back to Atlanta. They were scheduled to play Denver but that game has been moved due to obvious reasons.
Also there were projections for the compensatory picks for the 2012 draft. The picks are given to teams that lost players to free agencies. Austin Hooper and Devonte Campbell. It looks like they may get on extra fifth round pick and possibly a pair of sixth rounder’s.
The NFL will officially name those awarded picks the first of May.
The powers that be in major league baseball say that it looks hopeful that teams will play in their home ballparks when the season starts. Baseball has several other plans like the three divisions on spring training sights. It is hopeful that the season will start late June or early July. There is no set on the number of games on the schedule yet. I know that 100 games and possibly an early December world series are hopeful. It doesn’t look like the fans will be in the stadiums when the season starts.
SPORTS
NFL DRAFT
By Russ Regan
I will be the first to admit that I am not a huge football guy; I am not even the biggest football fan in my household by far, but I do love the NFL draft. Like everything else right now, it was different but it had a little distraction because nothing else was able to take place. This one had a lot of story lines to say the least. When would “Trader Thomas” make a deal for the Falcons? How many bulldogs would join Andrew Thomas in the first round? How would Jake Fromm fare? Would his lack of arm strength overcome his brains? What about the kicker, Rodrigo Blankenship? Would the all American get picked or would he become an undrafted free agent? Let’s talk about it, so here we go.
As you know, Thomas Demetrioff is known to be a trader in the draft. Heck, he even got the name Trader Thomas because he has made at least one deal in 13 straight drafts. The word on the streets is that he was going to trade up for either C.J. Henderson from Florida, Derrick Brown from Auburn or even Isaiah Simmons from Clemson. As I said, I really wanted to see them trade down and get extra picks in this talented deep draft. As we know, three quarterbacks, as expected, came off the lead quick.
As I held my breath, Simmons, Brown and Anderson came off the boards, but the one thing that was wide receivers. Granted the Falcons didn’t really need one but it was perfect leverage for a trade down. Well, sure enough, Cal Doe Lamb, the greatly talented wide out, fell to number 16 where the Falcons were picking. The Eagles needed one and they were at number 21. So, I thought they were perfect for a deal. Then came the announcement of corner back A.J. Terell from Clemson. I know that the team needed one after releasing Desmond Trufant but this was a horrible pick. He was projected to be a late second round pick. Lamb would have been great with Jones and Ridley but at trade down! Sure enough Lamb went to Dallas and reports were the Eagles called Atlanta about Lamb but were turned down.
Rumors started to spread early Friday about a Falcon trade up. I have to question if Demitrioff had the power to make moves because once more nothing happened. I really did like the second and third round picks.
In round two, Marlon Davidson from Auburn will help the interior of the defensive line. Along with Grady Jarrett, they should do a good job. The team really needs a center in wanting Matt Hennessy from Temple should do a good job as he can learn a bunch from Alex Mack as I am guessing this is his last year as a Falcon. Friday’s picks gave the fan base some hope after screwing up so bad Thursday. Talent was still a plenty on Saturday to gobble up. They had two picks in the fourth round but it looks like they made a mess of it. Linebacker Mycale Walker and safety Jeylin Hawkins had seventh round or undrafted grades coming in. Granted those grades have been wrong beforehand. For the Falcons sake, I hope so. As Saturday rolled on, one thing was for sure; for the first time as general manager in 13 years there would be no Falcons trade. They had no fifth or sixth round picks, so off to round seven we go. They grabbed a punter, granted it looks like a good one, as Sterling Hofrichter from Syracuse is now a Falcon.
In summary, I liked battle picks on Friday a bunch but the rest are suspect at best. Terell was not the right pick in the first round at the time. Trading down was and should have been a given. The reports are that both fourth round picks were huge reaches. Sadly, the punter sounds like the third best round pick and that is really sad. I hope that I am wrong and yes I will admit if I am. The good news is at least he didn’t trade up to get them.
Ok, now for the local front sort of and let’s see how the bulldogs did in the draft. It was pretty much a given that left tackle Andre Thomas would be gone early and he was as the Giants grabbed him number four overall. One man that had moved up lately was right tackle Isaiah Wilson and sure enough Wilson wound up with Tennessee with the 29th pick. The question is would there be first round bulldogs?
Not quite, as Kansas City went a different direction at running back.
D’Andre Swift didn’t last long in the second round as he was gobbled up by Matthew Stafford and the Lions. He should do a good job there.
The next question for the night was about Jake Fromm. He did great on the Wonder lid test but would his lack of a strong throwing arm hurt him? Unfortunately, the lack of arm strength won out. His slide would take him all the way to the middle of the fifth round to the Bills. Barring expenses he will be a back up for Joseph Alley, who was a 2018 top pick. I do think Fromm’s knowledge will help out quite a bit. I really wished Fromm had stayed in Athens.
The Dogs would be SEC favorites and have a shot at a national title. The 2021 quarterback group isn’t nearly as deep.
The Dogs did have more players picked. Sued Soloman Kindley went in the fourth round to Miami. Tight end Charlie Woerner went to San Francisco in round six and linebacker Tae Crowder was the final pick of the draft. What about Blankenship you ask? I wasn’t stunned he wasn’t picked because kickers often aren’t, but several did this year and that surprised me. Rodrego was signed real quick after the draft by the Colts and I know he will do very well there.
The draft was still fun as always despite the Falcons probable mess-ups. I look forward to watching next year with my dad.
By Russ Regan
I will be the first to admit that I am not a huge football guy; I am not even the biggest football fan in my household by far, but I do love the NFL draft. Like everything else right now, it was different but it had a little distraction because nothing else was able to take place. This one had a lot of story lines to say the least. When would “Trader Thomas” make a deal for the Falcons? How many bulldogs would join Andrew Thomas in the first round? How would Jake Fromm fare? Would his lack of arm strength overcome his brains? What about the kicker, Rodrigo Blankenship? Would the all American get picked or would he become an undrafted free agent? Let’s talk about it, so here we go.
As you know, Thomas Demetrioff is known to be a trader in the draft. Heck, he even got the name Trader Thomas because he has made at least one deal in 13 straight drafts. The word on the streets is that he was going to trade up for either C.J. Henderson from Florida, Derrick Brown from Auburn or even Isaiah Simmons from Clemson. As I said, I really wanted to see them trade down and get extra picks in this talented deep draft. As we know, three quarterbacks, as expected, came off the lead quick.
As I held my breath, Simmons, Brown and Anderson came off the boards, but the one thing that was wide receivers. Granted the Falcons didn’t really need one but it was perfect leverage for a trade down. Well, sure enough, Cal Doe Lamb, the greatly talented wide out, fell to number 16 where the Falcons were picking. The Eagles needed one and they were at number 21. So, I thought they were perfect for a deal. Then came the announcement of corner back A.J. Terell from Clemson. I know that the team needed one after releasing Desmond Trufant but this was a horrible pick. He was projected to be a late second round pick. Lamb would have been great with Jones and Ridley but at trade down! Sure enough Lamb went to Dallas and reports were the Eagles called Atlanta about Lamb but were turned down.
Rumors started to spread early Friday about a Falcon trade up. I have to question if Demitrioff had the power to make moves because once more nothing happened. I really did like the second and third round picks.
In round two, Marlon Davidson from Auburn will help the interior of the defensive line. Along with Grady Jarrett, they should do a good job. The team really needs a center in wanting Matt Hennessy from Temple should do a good job as he can learn a bunch from Alex Mack as I am guessing this is his last year as a Falcon. Friday’s picks gave the fan base some hope after screwing up so bad Thursday. Talent was still a plenty on Saturday to gobble up. They had two picks in the fourth round but it looks like they made a mess of it. Linebacker Mycale Walker and safety Jeylin Hawkins had seventh round or undrafted grades coming in. Granted those grades have been wrong beforehand. For the Falcons sake, I hope so. As Saturday rolled on, one thing was for sure; for the first time as general manager in 13 years there would be no Falcons trade. They had no fifth or sixth round picks, so off to round seven we go. They grabbed a punter, granted it looks like a good one, as Sterling Hofrichter from Syracuse is now a Falcon.
In summary, I liked battle picks on Friday a bunch but the rest are suspect at best. Terell was not the right pick in the first round at the time. Trading down was and should have been a given. The reports are that both fourth round picks were huge reaches. Sadly, the punter sounds like the third best round pick and that is really sad. I hope that I am wrong and yes I will admit if I am. The good news is at least he didn’t trade up to get them.
Ok, now for the local front sort of and let’s see how the bulldogs did in the draft. It was pretty much a given that left tackle Andre Thomas would be gone early and he was as the Giants grabbed him number four overall. One man that had moved up lately was right tackle Isaiah Wilson and sure enough Wilson wound up with Tennessee with the 29th pick. The question is would there be first round bulldogs?
Not quite, as Kansas City went a different direction at running back.
D’Andre Swift didn’t last long in the second round as he was gobbled up by Matthew Stafford and the Lions. He should do a good job there.
The next question for the night was about Jake Fromm. He did great on the Wonder lid test but would his lack of a strong throwing arm hurt him? Unfortunately, the lack of arm strength won out. His slide would take him all the way to the middle of the fifth round to the Bills. Barring expenses he will be a back up for Joseph Alley, who was a 2018 top pick. I do think Fromm’s knowledge will help out quite a bit. I really wished Fromm had stayed in Athens.
The Dogs would be SEC favorites and have a shot at a national title. The 2021 quarterback group isn’t nearly as deep.
The Dogs did have more players picked. Sued Soloman Kindley went in the fourth round to Miami. Tight end Charlie Woerner went to San Francisco in round six and linebacker Tae Crowder was the final pick of the draft. What about Blankenship you ask? I wasn’t stunned he wasn’t picked because kickers often aren’t, but several did this year and that surprised me. Rodrego was signed real quick after the draft by the Colts and I know he will do very well there.
The draft was still fun as always despite the Falcons probable mess-ups. I look forward to watching next year with my dad.
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