Five Bold Predictions for the 2019-2020 NBA Season

What an offseason it was. I’m sure someone out there made an NBA offseason bold prediction article and couldn’t ever foresee what transpired this offseason. The offseason is now behind us and the NBA regular season is starting up. For the first time in three seasons, we do not have a clear cut NBA champion frontrunner, now that Kevin Durant has moved on from the Golden State Warriors and signed with the Brooklyn Nets this summer. The parody is back and there are 10+ teams with legitimate championship aspirations. Nobody quite knows exactly what is going to transpire this regular season and postseason, but it’s fun to try to guess and what better way than to get a little bold with the predictions, so let’s get bold. Here are my five bold predictions for the 2019-2020 NBA season.   

 

Bold Prediction #1: The Dallas Mavericks make the playoffs

The Dirk Nowitzki era is over in Dallas and it will certainly feel different this season, but that doesn’t mean it will not be a promising and exciting season for the Mavs. The Mavs are young, but with youth comes excitement. Reigning NBA Rookie of the Year, Luke Doncic, impressed us with his all around play in his first year and at only 20 years old still has so much room to grow in his basketball career. The player that excites me the most about Dallas this season is Kristaps Porzingis. They traded for the 7’3” big man last trading deadline and is back and healthy. Their depth is worrisome, but with the 8th seed up for grabs in the Western Conference the Mavs have a shot at surprising many and sneaking into the playoffs.

Bold Prediction #2: The Indiana Pacers come within one game of the Eastern Conference Finals

After finishing last season as the 5th seed in the Eastern Conference and getting swept in the first round by the Boston Celtics, the Pacers are motivated coming into this season. They missed their leader, Victor Oladipo late last season and will be without him until at least January, but the Pacers have enough depth to maintain without him for the beginning of the season, and he’ll be back for the stretch run and the playoffs. A defensive minded and slow pace team, the Pacers added an under the radar player, Malcolm Brogdon this offseason. He fits them perfectly and with Myles Turner at center, they will be a tough out come playoff time if Oladipo is back and healthy.

Bold Prediction #3: Michael Porter Jr. wins Rookie of the Year

He’s an easy guy to forget about. He’s entering his second full season in the NBA, but failed to play in a game last season due to injuries, something Ben Simmons and Blake Griffin also did and both went on to win the ROTY in their second full season. Zion Williamson is the frontrunner for the award, and he rightfully should be. He is the best prospect entering the league since Anthiny Davis, but this is a bold prediction article for a reason. Zion’s only flaw right now is his injury history and he is now starting the season behind the 8 ball thanks to a torn meniscus that will have him sidelined for the first two months of the season. MPJ is surrounded by a number of selfless players and he’ll be the number scoring option of the second unit for Denver. If he can stay healthy for the full season, he can shock many and win the Rookie of the Year Award.

Bold Prediction #4: The Denver Nuggets claim the first seed in the Western Conference

This prediction goes hand in hand with my last one. If MJP has a breakout rookie season, like many, myself included, believe he will the Nuggets will be in good shape to secure home court throughout the Westwrn Conference playoffs. The Nuggets have the best big man in basketball, Nikola Jokic. He is a legitimate MVP candidate and can do it all on both ends of the court. Point guard, Jammel Murray had the best season of his young career last season and is looking to build upon it. They have the best depth in basketball and newly acquired, Jerami Grant brings great floor spacing to this team.

Bold Prediction #5: LeBron James wins MVP, but the Los Angeles Lakers are not a top three seed in the Western Conference

The best player in basketball had a down year to his standards last year, only playing in 55 games, a career low, and missing the playoffs for the first time since the 2004-2005 season, his 2nd year in the league. He is more rested than he has been in the last 15 years, and is more motivated than ever after a disappointing last season. Add a top 10 player, Anthony Davis, to the Lakers this offseason LeBron is and should be the MVP favorite. He’ll take a back seat to Davis, but when the game is on the line and the Lakers need him most that’s when his greatness will come out. Averaging close to 10 assists and 10 rebounds doesn’t seem out of this world and if he averages more than 25 points a game, something he hasn’t done since his rookie season, James will be in line to win his 5th MVP award. However, with a more even leveled, competitive Western Conference the Lakers will be fighting with the Denver Nuggets, Los Angeles Clippers, Utah Jazz, and Houston Rockets for a top 3 seed and just miss out on it on the last day of the regular season.     

2019 NFL Playoff Preview

Summer has come and gone, Labor Day has passed, and that dreaded 4 week pre-season is finally over, which means regular season football is back. The season opens up tomorrow night with the Chicago Bears hosting the Green Bay Packers, two hopeful playoff teams, with a riviraly that goes back to 1921. The Packers hold the edge over the Bears 96-94 on head to head matchups. Arguably the best rivalry in football, the matchup should be a great kickoff to the beginning of the 2019-2020 NFL season. 

Every team starts with the same record at 0-0, but many teams will slowly fade from the playoff picture and some teams will separate themselves from the pack. Now time for predictions of playoff teams, Conference Champions, and of course the Super Bowl winner. 

AFC

1 seed: New England Patriots 

The defending Super Bowl champions will win the AFC East with ease, the only question is if they get the number 1 or 2 seed. Their division includes 3 rebuilding teams, where they can easily go 5-1 or 6-0 against them. The Patriots are known for starting slow in September and a week 1 matchup against the Pittsburgh Steelers is a tough challenge out of the gate. Their defense is younger than previous years and their leader, Tom Brady has shown no sign of slowing down even at age 42.

2 seed: Kansas City Chiefs

 Arguably the best team in the AFC, the most complete offense in the AFC without question are the Chiefs. Their coach, quarterback combination of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes have a year together under their belt and look to improve on their impressive debut year together. Mahomes, the reigning MVP, still has a ton of offensive firepower around him, including pro bowlers, Tyree Hill and Travis Kelce. Their defensive line is still a force behind Chris Jones and Frank Clark. They also signed Tryann Mathieu to bolster their secondary, which last year was their weakness.

3 seed: Pittsburgh Steelers 

One of the more intriguing division in football is none other than the AFC North. The reigning division champions, Balitmore Ravens believe they are still the best division and the new improved Cleveland Browns are entering the season with Super Bowl aspirations. And now enter the Pittsburgh Steelers, the best team in the division over the last 10 years. They lost their number one distraction this offseason, Antino Brown and addressed their number one weakness, linebacker. They drafted Devin Bush 10th overall in this year’s draft. Their defensive line is still the best in the division and a year after leading the league in passing yards Ben Roethlisberger is poised for another big season.

4 seed: Jacksonville Jaguars

The departure of Andrew Luck has opened up the AFC South. No other team benefits more than Andrew Luck retiring than the Jacksonville Jaguars. The Jaguars addressed their biggest weakness from last season, where they had high hopes but ended the season 5-11. They released Blake Bortles and signed Super Bowl MVP, Nick Foles to a 4 year contact. The Jaguars still have one of the best defenses in football headlined by their cornerback duo of Jalen Rasmey and A.J. Bouye. They also added to a strength of theirs, their defensive line. They drafted Josh Allen, the S.E.C. defensive player of the year last year 7th overall. Learnord Fournette is also in the best shape of his NFL life after a disappointing season last year and is ready for his breakout year. Nick Foles, however, is the difference maker the Jaguars needed to compete with the very best and is motivated to show his time with the Eagles was not a fluke. 

5 seed: Cleveland Browns

The hype is real with the Browns. Their starting 11 on offense and defense can challenge any teams in football, their maturity is what is at question. They are a very young with not much experienced with the position they currently find themselves. Baker Mayfield is ready to take a huge leap in year 2. He has many great offensive pieces surrounding him. The newest Brown, Odell Beckham is set up for success with Mayfeild, the best quarterback he has played with. Their defense is young, but very talented. If they can play up to potential there is no reason the Browns should not make the playoffs.

6 seed: Los Angeles Chargers

Melvin Gordon seems to have played his last football with the Chargers unless he decides to play under his current contact. He has requested a trade within the past few days, and the Chargers have allowed him to speak with other teams. However, the Chargers have great depth at running back with Autin Eckler and Justin Jackson manning the backfield now. Philip Rivers is one of the best quarterbacks of the past decade and deserves more respect. They lost a key defensive piece, Derwin James, for at least 3 months, which is a huge loss but with 2 rebuilding teams in their division and their great ability to play on the road the Chargers find themselves in the playoffs once again.  

 

NFC

1 seed: Philadelphia Eagles

The deepest team in the NFC and arguably football. They bring back their stellar defensive line headlined by Fletcher Cox, and also added Malik Jackson to it. The secondary a season ago was riddled by injuries, but still played well down the stretch to keep them in games. Malclom Jenkins still leads the group and is their vertern, vocal leader on defense. Carson Wentz is back and healthy. The biggest concern is quarterback depth behind Wentz, which can be scary with Wentez’s injury history, but if he can stay healthy and continues to grow his already impressive game their offense will be hard to stop. DeSean Jackson gives Wentez a great deep threat and big time playmaker. The biggest thing with the Eagles is their health, if they can stay healthy, especially Wentz they are too talented to not win the NFC East.

2 seed: Los Angeles Rams

For being in the entertainment capital of the world, the Rams offense last season sure was entertaining to watch. This season should be no different. They signed Jared Goff to a 4 year 134 million dollar extension days before the season started, which is a huge weight off their shoulders. Their wide receiver trio of Robert Woods, Copper Cup, and Brandin Cooks is one of the best in football. Their defense still holds many big names with none bigger than Aaron Donald. 

3 seed: Green Bay Packers

The Aaron Rodgers comeback season is in full force once again. After battling with injuries and a relationship with his head coach that went south quickly, Rodgers is back and still one of the most talented quarterbacks in football. The upgrades they made on defense is what makes this Packers team so intriguing. They added Preston Smith, Za’Darius Smith upfront, and Ardian Amos to an already young and greatly improving secondary. Matt LaFleur has a tough challenge in front of him, handling Aaron Rodgers, but Rodgers, one of the smartest players in football should mesh well with a young, freshvoice.

4 seed: New Orleans Saints

Back to back years of heartbreaking playoff losses, the Saints’ window may be closing sooner than later. Drew Brees is not getting any younger and his play declined towards the end of last season, however, he is the best leader in football and the Saints will try to minimize his workload throughout the season. They have the luxury to do so because Alvin Karma stands besides Brees in huddle. Karmam, a very dynamic running back has turned himself into one of the best running backs in football. They also have one of the best wide receivers in football Micheal Thoimas, who also was rewarded with a new contact extension last month. Their defensive strength is still their defensive line and their secondary will keep them in games for their high powered offense. 

5 seed: Chicago Bears 

A year after their breakout season which included the NFC North division championship, the Bears are eager for more. Their defense was their strength to their football team last season, and it will be again this season. Mitchell Trisukey made great strides last season, playing as mostly a game manger and he did what he needed to do. Their running game lost a big weapon in Jordan Howard, but they drafted David Montermery to fill his shoes. Tarik Cohen also is a speedy, dynamic back who is very capable of the big play. The Bears’ defense will need to play the way they are capable of to make the playoffs in a crowered NFC conference, but with Khalil Mack leading the group I have all the confidence in them to do so.

6 seed: Dallas Cowboys

The key piece has finally fallen into place. Ezekiel Elliott and the Cowboys have finally come together on a contract extension 4 days before their season opener. He is pivotal for their success this season and for years to come. Their defense has stars at every level and has shown the moment is not too big for them. Dak Prescott is exactly what the Cowboys need, someone who can make plays with his feet and is not going to throw the game away. He plays smart and gets better as the game continues. Dallas is a very well rounded team and now with their best player back they should get back into the playoffs for a second straight season. 

 

AFC Championship Game

1 seed New England Patriots vs. 2 seed Kansas City Chiefs

The rematchup of last seasons AFC Championship game, but this time it takes place in Foxborough. New England has made 8 straight AFC Championship games and won 5 of them. Their coach quarterback duo is no stranger to big games in the postseason and while the Chiefs have another year of experience under their belt and have experienced facing the Patriots in the playoffs, I have learned to never bet against the Patriots in the playoffs at home.

NFC Championship Game

1 seed Philadelphia Eagles vs. 3 seed Green Bay Packers

Home field plays no bigger role than in this matchup here. Philly is no easy place to play in general, now add the chance to go back to the Super Bowl Aaron Rodgers and the Packers will be changed early and often by the Philly faithful. The Packers have the offensive firepower behind Rodgers, of course, to keep up with the Eagles and Wentz, however their defense is young and the moment will be too big for them on the road in the hostile environment.

Super Bowl

1 seed New England Patriots vs. 1 seed Philadelphia Eagles

The rematch of Super Bowl LII, 2 years ago. The Eagles and Nick Foles outlasted the Patriots 41-33. This year the Eagles will have Carson Wentz under center in his first Super Bowl appearance and squaring off against Tom Brady in his 10th Super Bowl. He is currently 6-3 in his first 9 appearances. Bill Belichick on two weeks of time to prep for the game will be studying that 2018 Super Bowl against the Eagles. His team and more importantly defense will be ready.

Winner: New England Patriots

MLB Dark Horse MVP Candidates

Baseball is a long season, meaning certain players can get lost in the midst of the long season. Every year, we overlook players sometimes because they aren’t playing for a contender, sometimes because we simply just overlook and take for granted just how good they have been during the year. We love to compare players, and make decisions such as who is the best at their position in the league, who the best player is on your team, and simply who is the best player in the game is, even though that question is pretty obvious and hard to debate against. So with all due respect to Cody Bellieger, Christian Yelich, and Mike Trout for their work in their respective leagues so far, they are not the only three players having MVP-caliber seasons. Everyone loves a dark horse candidate right? Each league has a few, I’ll highlighted my top two dark horse MVP’s so far. 

Eddie Rosario

Who had the Twins in first place 3 months into the season? Heck, who even had them in the playoffs? (I did, but that’s besides the point) The Twins have had contributions from many this season, some expected, some not so much, but the biggest and most important work has been done from Eddie Rosario. He’s been cleaning up for the Twins all season long, and has taken advantage of every opportunity hitting behind and learning from 6 time all star, Nelson Cruz.

Rosario had his coming out party in 2017, mashing 27 home runs and leading the Twins to the AL Wild Card game, where he hit a 2 run home run. Last season, Rosario continued his work, but failed to improve his overall game. This season Rosario paces the Twins with 20 home runs and 59 rbis to go along with his .282 batting average.

He is on pace to set career highs in home runs and rbis and is set to make his first all start team. While he does not walk much, only 14 on the season, he puts the ball in play consistently. 

Rosario has been hidden with all the quality talent that has been on display for the Twins this season. They are the surprise team of the season thus far, causing Rosario to somehow get overlooked in their lineup. While, he may not be the “leader” of the ballclub, he has certainly appreciated the veterans the Twins have added and taken a lot from their leadership and advice.

At only 27 years old, Rosario is entering his prime and his best is yet to come. A 30 home run 100 rbi a year guy is not out of the reach and with how the Twins have exceeded everyone’s expectations, Rosario deserves a look at the MVP award.

Freddie Freeman      

None the more prototypical MVP candidate, Freddie Freeman. Freeman finished 4th in the NL MVP voting last year, so he may not be the typical dark horses for MVP this season, he always seems to be the overlooked superstar in baseball. 

Season after season, Freeman continues to be the driving force for a Braves team that has finally put it all together. A year after winning the NL East, the Braves have themselves a 5.5 game lead after a quality month of June and Freedman has lead the way.

Poised to start at first base for the NL all star team, Freeman is in the midst of the best season of his career. He’s hitting .313 with 21 home runs and 61 rbis. He ranks in the top 10 in the National League in average, homeruns, rbis, runs scored, and OPS, all the top offensive categories. He also won the gold clove at first base last season and has been just as solid this season as well. 

Freeman is only 29 years old, but he is looked at like a vertern, and he has taken to the role with ease. His leadership along with his play is enough to put his name in the MVP conversation plus having the Braves in first place again this season, Freeman has easily been one of the best players in the National league so far this season. 

 

Outlook for every MLB Team after Month Two

The baseball season just started right? That’s what it feels like to many at least, but here we are already two months in. Teams have reached the 50 game mark and with Memorial Day arriving ,the first official checkpoint of the MLB season is here and now seems like the best time to elevate every teams start and how they look moving forward.

Couldn’t ask for a better start

Minnesota Twins (36-16)

The biggest surprise team of the baseball season thus far. Their offseason acquisitions have paid dividends for them, with Jonathan Schoop looking like his old self and Marwin Gonzalez heating up after a slow start. Eddie Rosario continues to mash for the Twins, leading the team with 16 home runs. Jorge Polanco, after signing an extension in spring training, has played better than anyone expected.

Houston Astros (35-19)

They are a little banged up on the offensive side, with Jose Altuve still on the IL with a hamstring injury, but is set to start a rehab assignment this week and also George Springer landing on the IL with a hamstring injury as well. The offseason pickup of Michael Brantley has paid off well so far and Carlos Correa is having a nice bounceback season. Their bullpen is one of the best in the league as well.

Tampa Bay Rays (31-19)

They have cooled off a bit from a sorching start to the season, but still find themselves just 2 games back of the first place New York Yankees. Brandon Lowe has been the unsung hero for the Rays so far and has himself as the frontrunner for the AL Rookie of the Year Award so far. Their opener has once again been very effective and Blake Snell, for the most part, has been as good as he was a season ago.

Los Angeles Dodgers (35-18)

Hyun-JIn Ryu has easily been one of the best pitchers in the National League so far this season. He’s been great carrying this rotation while Walker Buehler starts to come back to form after a slow start and Clayton Kershaw can find a consistent rhythm, which he seems to have found now. Cody Bellinger has played out of his mind so far and is the frontrunner for the National League Most Valuable Player Award.

San Diego Padres (28-25)

The Padres are a young team that many did not expect to compete this year, and while they sit 7 games back of the Dodgers in the NL West standings, 3 games above .500 53 games into the season is a great success for them.

Arizona Diamondbacks (28-25)

They lost Paul Goldschmidt, A.J. Pollack, and Patrick Corbin this past offseason and they haven’t really missed a beat. The D-backs are a scrappy team that doesn’t give in or give up. They fight until out 27 and have been rewarded with a record they can be very happy with.  

Can’t complain, but have room for improvement

Philadelphia Phillies (31-22)

The Phillies have found their stride as of late. Winners of 7 of their last 10 ball games, the Phillies lineup has carried the weight so far. Jean Segura and J.T. Realmuto have outshined Bryce Harper in their first season in Philadelphia so far. Their rotation is starting to get healthy and is throwing the ball better of late. Jake Arrieta is having a bounceback season with his 3.60 era.

Atlanta Braves (30-24)

Their bullpen has to be better if they want to win the division for back to back seasons. Their pitching staff owns a 4.15 era, good for 13th best in the league. That will need to improve. Their lineup is deep and starting to come together. Rookie Austin Riley has been everything and more since his call up from Triple A. He is hitting .341 so far.    

Chicago Cubs (30-21)

A dreadful 2-7 start to the season feels long gone for the Cubbies. Their bats are starting to heat up at just the right time. Willson Contreras has been the hidden gem for this club so far, hitting .320 so far. Javy Baez is having himself another MVP type level season. Their rotation has held up so far, but the bullpen will need to be more consistent.

Milwaukee Brewers (30-24)

A slowish start for the Brewers, but they only trail the Cubs by a game and half in the division. Their starting staff has been surprisingly good, and their offense has been surprise sluggish for most the year. Christian Yelich is keeping up with his ridiculous season last year and leads the league in home runs with 21.

Pittsburgh Pirates (25-25)

If you don’t know who Josh Bell is, get to know the name. Bell is second in the league in average, .339 and rbis, 47. He is also fifth in the league in homeruns with 16. He is carrying the Pirates so far.

New York Yankees (34-18)

They own the 3rd best record in all of baseball, yet they have so much room for improvement. Their lineup on paper is scary, but they haven’t had that lineup on the field for much of the season. Injuries have been the story of the season so far, yet they find themselves first in the AL East. This just shows how good and how much better the Yankees could potentially be.

Oakland A’s (28-25)

Winners of 6 straight, the A’s are firing on all cylinders. Bob Melvin continues to do an excellent job with this ballclub. It might be  a stretch to say the can challenge the Astros for the division, but just like year they’ll be fighting for a Wild Card berth.

Slow start, Have a lot of work to do

Boston Red Sox (28-25)

World Series hangover? I’d say so. The Red Sox will admit they didn’t have the start of their season they wanted or expected, but they’re coming around now. Their big names are starting to come around after slow starts. Chris Sale is throwing the ball much better and Mookie Betts looks to be back to his MVP self. The Red Sox need to start playing better baseball to stay competitive in the AL East and challenge the Yankees.

Cleveland Indians (26-26)

51 games in and the Indians already sit 10 games back in the AL Central. Their starting staff, their strength entering the season, has been underwhelming so far. Corey Kluber’s absence has been huge. Their offense has yet to get going as well. Jose Ramirez, who finished 3rd in the AL MVP voting just a season ago is hitting below .200. The Indians are in trouble right now.

Texas Rangers (25-25)

A better start than years past, but still an uphill battle with the Astros and A’s in their division.

Los Angeles Angels (24-28)

The pitching staff is once again holding this team back. They have the offensive pieces to be a competitive team, but continue to get the pitching staff wrong.

New York Mets (26-26)

An eventful offseason for the Mets has them sitting at .500 52 games into the season. Jacob DeGrom has had a slow start to the season to his standards and Noah Syndergaard has not been much better. They also just lost Yoenis Cespedes for the year. The Mets have a rough road ahead of them.

Washington Nationals (22-31)

The most disappointing team so far this season. Their bullpen has been an absolute disaster. Their lineup has been hurt and unproductive most of the year. The Nationals are in big trouble after some high expectations this season.  

St. Louis Cardinals (26-26)

An up and down start of the season for the red birds has got them at exactly .500. With high expectations this season, the Cardinals have work to do. Their offense needs Matt Carpenter and Paul Goldschmidt to heat up quick. Their starting staff has held their own and Jack Flauthey is pitching the ball much better of late.

Cincinnati Reds (24-28)

The Reds have been the opposite of what many thought they were. Their pitching has actually been their strength, while their offense has been their weakness. Their offense will eventually come around, it has started to recently. If their pitching can keep up their good work long enough for their offense to heat up, the Reds could make some noise.

Colorado Rockies (24-27)

The Rockies’ pitching has let them down so far. Regardless of their home ballpark, their pitching has unachieved to their expectations. Their offense is what it is every season. Nolan Arenado continues to be one of the best players in baseball. However, if the Rockies want to return to the postseason, their pitching needs to improve.

Maybe next year?

Toronto Blue Jays (21-32)

While they will not be competing this season, the Jays have many reasons to watch them and be excited for the future. Vladimir Guerrero Jr. is must see tv on his own and newly called up Calvin Biggio has a promising future as well.

Baltimore Orioles (16-37)

They are on pace to give up the most home runs in a single season by over 100, not that great.

Detroit Tigers (19-31)

They just recently lost 9 ball games in a row and have been underwhelming all around.

Kansas City Royals (18-34)

While they are not a competitive team, they are exciting. They can score with the best of them, but I think they might have the worst pitching staff in baseball.They own a 5.25 era, 2nd worst in baseball.

Seattle Mariners (23-32)

They have lost 20 of their last 30 games after a 13-12 start. They are entering a total rebuild.

Miami Marlins (16-34)

They are hitting .225 as a team and pitching to a 4.63 team era. The rebuild continues for the Marlins.

San Francisco Giants (21-31)

The last season for Bruce Bochy will be a sad one. He led the Giants to 3 World Series Championships in 2010, 2012, and 2014. The 2019 season though will not result in the same. The big question surrounding the Giants is if they’ll trade their prized and beloved ace, Madison Bumgarner.

 

NFL Mock Draft 2019

The NFL season is a 365 day sport. It’s talked about day in and day out.  One of the biggest topics discussed in the offseason is the draft and mock drafts are as popular as ever now. I’d figure I would give it a try too, but also do it a little differently. Instead of just myself predicting all 32 picks of the first round, my all things NFL source, Danie and I go back and forth predicting what pick each team will make and why. The NFL draft starts this Thursday, April 25th.   

1. Arizona Cardinals

Milligan’s Pick: Kyler Murray, QB

Murray fits newly hired coach, Kliff Kingsbury offensive scheme too well to past up. He’s not the best player in the draft, maybe not even the best quarterback in the class, but fits best with the future of the Cardinal’s offense.

2. San Francisco 49er’s

Daniel’s Pick: Nick Bosa, EDGE

Bosa is probably the best pass rusher in the draft hands down. The 49er’s would love to pair Bosa and Dee Ford together, giving them a great pass rushing duo.

3. New York Jets

Milligan’s pick: Josh Allen, EDGE

The Jets upgraded both sides of the ball so far this offseason, but still need an edge pass rusher. Josh Allen fits that perfectly.

4. Oakland Raiders

Daniel’s Pick: Quinnen Williams, DL

The Raiders need a pass rusher, but Williams is the best player in the draft and it would be hard for Gruden and Mayock to pass up on Williams.

5. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Milligan’s pick: Devin White, ILB

Kwon Alexander is no longer a Buc and who better to replace him than Devin White, who racked up 123 tackles at LSU last year.

6. New York Giants

Daniel’s Pick: Dwayne Haskins, QB

Dwayne Haskins is a prototypical, strong arm quarterback who the Giants need. He had 4,831 passing yards and 50 touchdowns in 2018 and Haskins could sit back a year and learn from Eli Manning.

7. Jacksonville Jaguars

Milligan’s pick: Jawaan Taylor, OL

The addition of Nick Foles warrants an upgrade to the right side of their offensive line. The Jaguars believed they have their quarterback and they must protect him now.

8. Detroit Lions

Daniel’s Pick: Rashan Gary, DL

Ansah was not the same rusher he used to be last year  and after parting ways with Detroit, Rashan Gary would be an immediate upgrade at defensive end.

9. Buffalo Bills

Milligan’s pick: Ed Oliver, DL

The Bills were weak up front, especially against the run and Oliver will be a pain to run at for the next 8 seasons.

10. Denver Broncos

Daniel’s Pick: Drew Lock, QB

Joe Flacco is definitely not the long term answer for the Broncos and with this pick Drew Lock can sit back a year and develop into the quarterback that Elway wants.

11. Cincinnati Bengals

Milligan’s pick: Montez Sweat, EDGE

The Bengals have many holes to fill, but might as well start with an edge rusher who can cause damage to an opposing quarterback.

12. Green Bay Packers

Daniel’s Pick: T.J Hockenson, TE

Hockenson is easily the best tight end in the draft. With his blocking skills, size, and catching ability he would give Aaron Rodgers another weapon on offense.

13. Miami Dolphins

Milligan’s pick: Jonah Williams, OL

Was very tempted to go with Daniel Jones here, but 13 was just too high. The Dolphins will be happy with Jonah Williams here.

14. Atlanta Falcons

Daniel’s Pick: Christian Wilkins, DL

Wilkins was a dominant interior linemen at Clemson and Atlanta would love to have him playing up front with Grady Jarrett and Vic Beasley who also played at Clemson.

15. Washington Redskins

Milligan’s pick: D.K. Metcalf, WR

Case Keenum will quarterback the Redskins this season, so it wouldn’t hurt to pair one of the best looking wide receiver prospects we’ve seen in years with him.

16. Carolina Panthers

Daniel’s Pick: Brian Burns, EDGE

Burns is long, quick, and can rush the passer. He ran a 4.53 at the combine and the Panthers would upgrade their pass rush with this pick here.

17. New York Giants

Milligan’s pick: Devin Bush, ILB

They got their quarterback with the 6th overall pick, might as well take the best player available.

18. Minnesota Vikings

Daniel’s Pick; Andre Dillard, OT

The Vikings need help on the offensive line and Dillard would step in right away and help upgrade the tackle position.

19. Tennessee Titans

Milligan’s pick: Marquise Brown, WR

Their offense always seems a little boring. A guy with a nickname “Hollywood” can help that.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers

Daniel’s pick: A.J. Brown, WR

Brown is a strong and quick slot receiver who would help replace Antonio Brown next season and give Big Ben another offensive weapon.  

21. Seattle Seahawks

Milligan’s pick: Chris Lindstrom, OL

Seattle signed a 4 year contract extension with Russell Wilson now they should focus on protecting him up front.

22. Baltimore Ravens

Daniel’s pick: Noah Fant, TE

Noah Fant had a great season at Iowa and with his length and speed he will be a matchup nightmare at the next level for the Ravens.

23. Houston Texans

Milligan’s pick: Greedy Williams, CB

Could easily go offensive line here, but I went a little out of the box. Their secondary could use a slight upgrade too.

24. Oakland Raiders

Daniel’s pick: Clelin Ferrell, EDGE

The Raiders desperately need pass rushing help and Ferrell would help solve that. He is a high motor player with the ability to stop the run and rush the passer.

25. Philadelphia Eagles

Milligan’s pick: Byron Murphy, CB

Their secondary let them down last year, injuries and inexperienced played a role. Murphy will be an upgrade right away.

26. Indianapolis Colts

Daniel’s pick: Parris Campbell, WR

The Colts can grab a receiver either here or in the second round, but I think Campbell’s speed, size, and athleticism would be enough to convince the Colts in taking him.  

27. Oakland Raiders

Milligan’s pick: Josh Jacobs, RB

The Raiders need a running back and Jacobs is the best one in the class.

28. Los Angeles Chargers

Daniel’s pick: Dexter Lawrence, DT

Another tough, physical defensive linemen from Clemson is off the board. Dexter Lawrence has the size and quickness to be a great defensive linemen and fill a need for the Chargers.

29.   Kansas City Chiefs

Milligan’s pick: Deandre Baker, CB

With the loss of Steve Nelson, Baker fills that hole immediately.

30. Green Bay Packers

Daniel’s pick: Cody Ford, OL

Cody Ford is raw and physical athlete, who can be an instant starter at guard or develop into a tackle. He has the versatility to play all across the offensive line and should help protect Aaron Rodgers.

31. Los Angeles Rams

Milligan’s pick: Jeffery Simmons, DL

He’s a top 15 talent, but a torn ACL makes him fall to late first round. He’ll take over for Ndamukong Suh.

32. New England Patriots

Daniel’s pick: N’keal Harry, WR

Harry is a competitive receiver who bodies his opponents when he goes up for the catch.  He needs some development, but Bill Belichick works wonders with these types of players.

 

 

To the Once in a Generation Talent, Thank You

When I think of Dirk Nowitzki, the first thing that comes to my mind is loyalty. 21 years with the same franchise is something that does not come around often, regardless the sport. Loyalty is something that is hard to come by nowadays in sports. Whether it’s the player leaving or the franchise trading them away, loyalty is hard to come by. Over the past 21 seasons, Dirk has been the epitome of loyalty.

The German born, Nowitzki, spend his 21 year career with the Dallas Mavericks. Over the course of his career, the 7 footer enjoyed 14 all star seasons and 1 MVP season in 2007, but his career was much more than the accolades and achievements.

The high point to any athlete’s career would be winning a championship. It’s how they’re remembered and certainly defines a legacy. How the championship is won is less analyzed, but just as, if not more, important than anything else.

Dirk’s lone championship and the Mavericks first and only championship in team history came in 2011. After sweeping a Kobe Bryant lead Lakers team and defeating a then Kevin Durant, Russell Westbrook, and James Harden Thunder team 4 games to 2, Dirk and the Mavericks were set to face “The Big 3”.

LeBron James’s first season as a Miami Heat ended in defeat to Dirk and the Dallas Mavericks in 6 games. Dirk was named Finals MVP after averaging 26 points and 9.7 rebounds a game, but accomplished much more than just a championship and ring in 2011.

A huge underdog entering the series, the Mavericks’ average age of their starting lineup was 31 years old, their second best player was a 33 year old, Jason Terry. The Mavericks, on paper were overmatched, yet they accomplish the unthinkable.

Dirk’s 2011 Dallas Mavericks’ team is and will be the last “non-super” team to win an NBA championship.

Aside from the highlight of Dirk’s career, he leaves the game as the best European born player to ever play. He finishes his career with 31,560 points scored, good for 6th all time.

However, the most impressive thing about Dirk’s career is that he was before his time. He was a 7 foot power forward, who could shoot like a shooting guard and handle the ball like a point guard. With the game of basketball elevoling the way it is, Dirk is everything you look for nowadays. The best 7 foot shooter in NBA history, his iconic one-legged fadeaway was picture perfect and forever will be.

While, he never did announce 2019 would be his final season, we all knew. Dirk was never that spotlight, look at me guy. He flew under the radar and in his eyes didn’t need a farewell tour, but he deserved one. So to a future Hall of Famer, thank you for an amazing career.

MLB PECOTA Over and Under Prediction

PECOTA, which stands for Player Empirical Comparison and Optimization Test Algorithm, is a proprietary system that projects player and team performance. PECOTA has become well known throughout the baseball community with their yearly predictions on every player’s individual statistics and teams overall performance and record come the end of the season. PECOTA looks at all the numbers from previous seasons for teams to predict how they will perform the next year.  For now, I will focus solely on every team’s win toal PECOTA is predicting them to have and pick if the team will finish over or under the predicted win total.

AL East

New York Yankees, Predicted 96-66

Milligan’s Outlook

What if I told you the Yankees failed to sign either of the two superstar free agents this offseason, but still had a successful offseason? Well they did just that. They added bullpen arm after bullpen arm and their bullpen instantly becomes a huge strength to this team. They also have one of the most potent lineups in baseball. They have all the potential to hit 250 home runs this season again.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook

The Yankees had a solid offseason buy stocking up their bullpen and adding pitchers to their starting rotation. Fans were disappointed by not getting Machado or Harper but I feel it will be a blessing in disguise, the Bronx bombers will be a juggernaut on offense and I think they will break the homerun record they set last season at 266 HR’s.

Prediction: OVER

Boston Red Sox, Preditied 90-72

Milligan’s Outlook

The defending World Series champions won 108 games last season so regression is going to happen but 18 games? I don’t think so. Their bullpen is thin so expect them to be busy around the trade deadline. Their offense is one of the best in baseball and is returning basically everyone from their World Series team. The Red Sox should have no problem getting to 90 wins.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook

Their bullpen took a step back with the loss of Joe Kelly and possibly Kimbrel depending on where he signs. I think after winning a championship there’s an expectation to stay at the top, some of their best players like Bogarts and Martinez will who had great a great last season will slightly regress but the Red Sox will make a playoff run once again.

Prediction: OVER

 

Tampa Bay Rays, Predicted 85-77

Milligan’s Outlook

The Rays surprised everyone last year with their strong season. They were one of the best teams post all star break and plan to continue riding their new idea of pitching, the opener. A difficult team to predict for me, but with Blake Snell leading their rotation and Tommy Pham leading their lineup the Rays could make a push for a Wild card spot.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook

The Ray’s played hard and almost fought their way to a postseason berth, signing Charlie Morton was a good signing to compliment Blake Snell CY Young award winner. Tommy Pham and a revamped Kevin Kiermaier will lead this team in the offensive category and try to push for a wildcard in a crowded AL East division.

Prediction: OVER

 

Toronto Blue Jays, Predicted 76-86

Milligan’s Outlook

The story of the season for the Blue Jays is when Vladimir Guerrero Jr. will make his long awaited debet. He is the frontrunner for AL Rookie of the Year and even has the ability to make his first all star team this season if he lives up to the hype. The Jays continued to strip down their roster this offseason and will continue with their rebuild.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

Vlad Jr. will be stuck under the Kris Bryant rule where teams will only play their young star a certain amount of games so he can remain under contract longer with his current team so Blue Jay fans should enjoy Vlad when he’s on the active roster. This team will rebuild to get back to their success during the 2015/2016 seasons.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Baltimore Orioles, Predicted 57-105

Milligan’s Outlook

Losers of 115 games last season, PECOTA is predicting the O’s to win 10 more games this season. I simply don’t see it, especially in this tough division.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

When you look up tanking for pro teams, this should be the first team on that list. Roster is lacking star power and it doesn’t help when there are three potential playoff teams in your own division.

Prediction: UNDER

 

AL Central

Cleveland Indians, Predicted 97-65

Milligan’s Outlook

The Indians are coming off another division title, but a disappointing postseason appearance. Their goals are bigger than just winning the division, which they should have no problem to do. Their rotation is one of the best in baseball and their lineup process two MVP candidates, Francisco Lindor and Jose Ramirez. They’ll win the division with ease, but won’t make it to 97 wins.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

The Indians are the AL Central division winners three years in a row in a weak division, they have a top starting rotation. Ramirez, Lindor, and Kipnis will all begin the year on the injury list so who will step up and lead on offense? Make it four division titles in a row but not 97 wins.

Prediction: UNDER

Minnesota Twins, Predicted 82-80

Milligan’s Outlook

The Twins quietly had a very good offseason, adding the likes of Jonathan Schoop and Nelson Cruz. Their lineup is greatly improved, their rotation is always the question mark. Jose Berrios is one of the best young pitchers in the game and should really take his game to the next level this season.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook

Jose Berrios could be a candidate for a CY Young award, I like the signings of Marwin Gonzalez and Nelson Cruz to help the batting lineup. Buxton has yet to have a great season due to injuries, this could be a make or break it year for him. Jorge Polanco is young player I would watch as a twins fan, only 25 years old he has a lot of prime baseball in his future. Bullpen is a weak point that might hinder their season.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Kansas City Royals, Predicted 72-90

Milligan’s Outlook

2015 seems centuries ago for Royal fans, yet it was only 4 years ago and the Royals were fresh off a World Series victory. Since then, the Royals have not been close to making it back to

the playoffs. They also do not indict that they are close this season as well.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

They Royal’s owner voiced his displeasure with the team’s performance last year and vowed they would not be that bad again, Whit Merrifield and Adalberto Mondesi are a solid double play pair and their hoping Nicky Lopez can make a jump to the majors so Merrifield can play outfield. Still a ways away from contending with the Indians.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Chicago White Sox, Predicted 70-92

Milligan’s Outlook

The White Sox rebuild is still in the midst and feels like it needs to elevole sometime soon. 2019 doesn’t seem like it will be the case. They won 62 games last year and missed out on their top target Manny Machado. The White Sox need to make strides this season, but I don’t see them doing so.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

When will Eloy Jimenez became a major leaguer? Probably not this year but he is the core of their rebuilding process that still needs help with some free agents in next year’s class such as Anthony Rendon and Xander Bogaerts.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Detroit Tigers, Predicted 66-96

Milligan’s Outlook

Not much firepower on offense or pitching for the Tigers. Miguel Cabrera is no longer the hitter he once was. It’s going to be a long season in Detroit.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

Time to celebrate Miguel Cabrera for his contributions over the years because the Tigers have a roster that will be dedicated to developing their young talent for the future.

Prediction: UNDER

 

AL West

Houston Astros, Predicted 98-64

Milligan’s Outlook

Houston is still a very good ballclub, and they have all the talent to win 100+ games again this season. Their starting rotation after losing Dallas Keuchel and Lance McCullers is thin though and while they win the division easily, they don’t make it to 98 wins.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

When healthy, they are one of the most dangerous clubs in baseball and have multiple all stars who are still in their prime. They lost two starting pitchers to free agency and injury but they have some pitching prospects that are big ready such as Forrest Whitley to replace them. They signed Michael Brantley to play outfield with Josh Reddick and George Springer. Once again division winners and competing for a World Series in October.

Projection: OVER

Los Angeles Angels, Predicted 80-82

Milligan’s Outlook

After finishing back to back season at 80-82, PECOTA predicts the Angels to finish with the exact same record for a third straight season. The question will the Angels is not their offense, it’s there starting rotation. However, they did extend their top, top priority Mike Trout to a 12 year deal and this will inspire his teammates to play inspired baseball this season.   

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook

Injuries are the achilles heel to this ballclub, every year it seems that there is high hopes for their new roster but yet again they get the injury bug and another year is wasted for Mike Trout. Rotation seems to have stayed the same as last year and will Ohtani have a big year at DH this season to help the offense? I think the injury bug will miss the Angels and they will get to 85 wins this year.

Prediction: OVER

Oakland A’s, Predicted 78-84

Milligan’s Outlook

The A’s made the AL Wild card game last year, something nobody predicted. This season, PECOTA see the A’s taking a step back. They did lose 3 starters to injury or free agency this offseason so their weakness will once again be their raotion. Their lineup headlined by breakout candidate, Matt Chapman is the real deal and will have no trouble scoring runs. Their starting staff will need to have a magical season like last year.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Billy Beane used moneyball tactic and fooled all of baseball last year by getting the final wildcard spot with 97 wins. This year they have bullpen issues due to injury and their rotation has a lot of unroven pitchers, but they have a 21 year old lefty pitcher named Jesus Lazardo who could be their future ace if the team decides to call him up. Cam Matt Chapman and Khris Davis help the A’s slug their way into the postseason again? Maybe but they will definitely get more than 78 wins.

Prediction: OVER

 

Seattle Mariners, Predicted 72-90

Milligan’s Outlook

General manager, Jerry Dipoto is always looking for a good trade and he made plenty this offseason. The Mariners after finishing last season with 89 wins are entering a full rebuild.

Prediction:OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

They traded Robinson Cano, Jean Segura, and James Paxton and lost Nelson Cruz to free agency. Kyle Seager and Mitch Haniger are left on a rebuilding team but they should still keep up their great play.

Prediction: OVER

 

Texas Rangers, Predicted 70-92

Milligan’s Outlook

Adrian Beltre is gone. The Rangers will continue their rebuild in 2019.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

They don’t have a particularly strong farm system, and their top prospects are still another year away from contributing at the big leagues. The way things are shaping up, this team won’t be ready to compete for a couple years and will focus on their building up their farm system.

Prediction: UNDER

 

NL East

Philadelphia Phillies, Predicted 89-73

Milligan’s Outlook

Arguable the most improved team going into 2019. They said they weren’t afraid to spend this offseason and they meant it. New comers, Bryce Harper, J.T. Realmuto, Jean Segura, Andrew Mccutchen, and David Robinson will contribute greatly this season. The Phillies have a nice mix of young players and veterans and are a dangerous team in the NL.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Philly had a busy offseason and lived up to spending “stupid money” by singing Andrew McCutchen, David Robertson and Bryce Harper. They also traded for Jean Segura and JT Realmuto, young players Rhys Hoskins and Odubel Herrera. This team will be a force to be reckoned with for a long time.

Prediction: OVER

Washington Nationals, Predicted 89-73

Milligan’s Outlook

They lost Bryce Harper but do not seem too concerned about it and Juan Soto is why. The 20 year old has greatness written all over him and is now the face of their outfield. Patrick Corbin makes an already good rotation better. Afer a down season in 2018, the Nationals will be in playoff contention all season long.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Losing Bryce Harper would have crippled most teams but not the Nationals, they have young studs Juan Soto and Victor Robles to replace him in the outfield, also they added Patrick Corbin to now have a three headed monster for starting pitching consisting of Max Scherzer, Stephen Strasburg, and Patrick Corbin.

Prediction: OVER

 

New York Mets, Predicted 87-75

Milligan’s Outlook

No doubt the Mets are an improved baseball team, but health is always a factor for them. Their starting rotation, while has the most potential in baseball, can never stay healthy. The offense will be better with the additions of Robinson Cano, Wilson Ramos, and Jed Lowrie, but 85 wins is a little too high expectations.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

The Mets really went in this offseason by making multiple acquisitions to strengthen their offense to equal the power their starting rotation. This team will go as far as their pitches can stay healthy.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Atlanta Braves, Predicted 85- 77

Milligan’s Outlook

The division winners last season, PECOTA expects the Braves to regress, which is understandable. They were a year early last year, but still made improvements to their club this offseason. Josh Donaldson is a low risk, high reward sign and will be great in the clubhouse to the young guys. Their starting rotation is not as good as the Nationals or Mets, but will keep them in games all season long.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Robert Acuna Jr. exploded onto the scene last year and won the NL Rookie of the Year, Josh Donaldson playing 3B will give the Braves a pretty good infield with Freddie Freeman, Ozzie Albies, and Dansby Swanson. Their rotation is average and that is what is keeping them from being better than the Nationals or Phillies. I still like their team they will continue their success from last year.

Prediction: OVER

Miami Marlins, Predicted 67-95

Milligan’s Outlook

Winning 63 games last season was actually better than many expect for the Marlins last year. They are in full rebuild mode and not concern with wins or loses.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

Starlin Castro and Brian Anderson will lead their future prospects from a farm system that was ranked in the upper half of baseball when they are ready for the future. As of now the only thing to look forward to is their new logo and jerseys and also not having to look at the home run sculpture in dead center as they moved it outside the stadium.

Prediction: UNDER

 

NL Central

Milwaukee Brewers, Predicted 88-74

Milligan’s Outlook

Their bullpen is their strength. Their starting rotation is their weakness. They once again did not make a big play to sign a free agent starting pitcher and they will regret it. They won the division last year in game 163 against the Cubs and it took an incredible September run, where it felt they never lost. Expect them to take a step backwards this year.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

The Brewers are a tricky team, they took care of their catching problem by signing Yasmani Grandal and brought back Mike Moustakas to play 3B, but they didn’t address their starting rotation. Gio Gonzalez left in free agency and besides Chacin, they don’t have a proven pitcher in the rotation, will have to rely on their bullpen too much which could hurt them.

Prediction: UNDER

St. Louis Cardinals, Predicted 86-76

Milligan’s Outlook

After missing the postseason for three consecutive seasons, the Cardinals are eager to get back and made a trade that will help them do so. Acquiring Paul Goldschmidt from the Diamondbacks was a big move that many believe will put them over the top in the division.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Cardinals went big and got Paul Goldschmidt, one of the best 1B in baseball, they also signed Andrew Miller who, if he stays healthy, can be a big addition to the bullpen. They have a solid team and should be back in postseason contention.

Prediction: OVER

Cincinnati Reds, Predicted 81-81

Milligan’s Outlook

4 straight seasons of win totals in the 60’s, the Reds are feeling good entering 2019. Not a hot take, just a realization, the Reds still are not a .500 ballclub. Their pitching will still let them down.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook:

They had a big trade to acquire Matt Kemp, Yasiel Puig, and Alex Wood from the Dodgers while giving up Homer Bailey and prospects. I think Puig will be a nice fit in Cincinnati due to him being an everyday starter on this roster. Scooter Gennett will miss the first few months of the season so that will be a big loss. They’re in a talented division and lack the firepower to keep up with the other teams.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Pittsburgh Pirates, Predicted 80-82

Milligan’s Outlook

One of the more forgotten teams in 2018, the Pirates were around .500 all season and the same will be in 2019. Their starting rotation is one of the most underrated in baseball. They can be very good, while their offense is average at best.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

They traded for Chris Archer at the deadline to try to make it into the postseason but fell short. They have high hopes for their outfielders Corey Dickerson, Starling Marte, and Lonnie Chisenhall to stay healthy and repeat their production from last season. Will rely on their decent rotation and revamped bullpen to carry them to the playoffs.

Prediction: UNDER

 

Chicago Cubs, Predicted 79-83

Milligan’s Outlook

Arguably the most shocking prediction for record by PECOTA this year. The Cubs won 95 games just a season ago and that was without Yu Darvish for almost the whole year and Kris Bryant missing a big amount of time because of injury. While the Cubs did not add any big name free agent, 79 wins and last in the division is ludacris. They’ll be battling the Cardinals for the division all season long.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Out of all the predictions, I found this one the most confusing, they missed Kris Bryant and Yu Darvish the majority of the season and still won 95 games. Brandon Morrow and Carl Edwards Jr. should help bolster the bullpen and keep the Cubs on top of the division.

Prediction: OVER

NL West

Los Angeles Dodgers, Predicted 94-68

Milligan’s Outlook

After back to back World Series appearances without winning, the Dodgers are all in to capture their first World Series victory since 1988. They have the roster to return to the Fall Classic for a third straight season. Even with Clayton Kershaw no longer the ace he once was, the Dodgers have one of the best rotation in baseball and a healthy Corey Seager could be huge for the Dodgers this season.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

The Dodgers had a quiet offseason for some fans but signed AJ Pollock and Joe Kelly to multi year deals which benefits the outfield and bullpen. They have Corey Seager bach which will give them a major boost, this team is built to have depth at most and have an emerging ace in Walker Buehler. This team will be one of the favorites to win it all for the first time since 1988.

Prediction: OVER

Colorado Rockies, Predicted 85-77

Milligan’s Outlook

Fresh off a wild card victory over the Chicago Cubs a season ago, the Rockies expect to compete once again with the Dodgers for the division. Their lineup never has trouble scoring runs and this year will be no different. The addition of Daniel Murphy, an under-the-radar move, will be huge for them. Their young rotation is always growing up and getting better everyday.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

 The Rockies will not skip a beat and should remain in contention for the NL West title. Daniel Murphy will give them a solid infield and David Dahl could be a breakout player for them at outfield and they have a young and up and coming starting rotation that can surprise some people.

Prediction: OVER

 

Arizona Diamondbacks, Predicted 81-81

Milligan’s Outlook

They fell apart the end of last season and decided to ship away franchise player, Paul Goldschmidt. Goldy meant so much to the D-backs and their fans and he will be missed. The Dbacks starting rotation is still very good even after losing Patrick Corbin in free agency. Their offense is lacking though without Goldy and with A.J. Pollack leaving town too.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Overlook:

Losing Patrick Corbin, Paul Goldschmidt, AJ Pollock will hurt the Diamondbacks, the team looks to be shedding itself of big contracts and maybe Zack Greinke is next. I think the Diamondbacks are trying their best to not fully go into a rebuilding mode, but that looks like the ultimatum for the franchise.

Prediction: UNDER

 

San Diego Padres, Predicted 79-83

Milligan’s Outlook

The Padres shocked everyone and signed Manny Machado this offseason and good for them. They needed a franchise player their fans could get behind. Machado makes their offense instantly better, but their pitching is still really thin.

Prediction: UNDER

Christian’s Outlook

Signing Manny Machado will bring Padre fans to games and have them believing they have a future and a star. They’re are a really young team with the top farm system in the MLB. Fernando Tatis Jr. will make his debut in the big leagues at some point. Padres will be a team to look out for in a couple years just not now.

Prediction: UNDER

 

San Francisco Giants, Predicted 73-89

Milligan’s Outlook

Manger, Bruce Bochy’s final season with the Giants will be a bittersweet one. He led them to 3 World Series victories and will be in CoopersTown one day. As for the team, many players from their last championship team in 2014 are still there and that just means they are old now. The Giants are an old team, but they still have better players than many think. They won’t be competing for the division, but they will be closer to .500.

Prediction: OVER

Christian’s Outlook:

Bruce Bochy will be in the hall of fame when he becomes eligible so congrats to Bruce on a great career. The Giants once world series roster is now starting to come apart, they let Hunter Pence go and they have 11 players over 30 and are starting to decline due to age and they don’t have a strong farm system so they will have to start from scratch when they begin to rebuild their roster.

Prediction: UNDER

Top 5 NFL Teams with the Best Offseason so Far

NFL free agency is like no other. No time being wasted, no rumors at all.. The official “offseason” for football begins March 13th, but so many teams and players agree to deals during the legal tampering period time, March 11th and 12th. These two days this year did not disappoint. Moves were happening within minutes of each other and unlike baseball, the NFL waste no time signing the players they want. With the official offseason now upon us, I’ll rank my top 5 teams who have had the best offseason so far.

 

1. Cleveland Browns

Notable additions: Odell Beckham, Olivier Vernon (trade), Kareem Hunt, Sheldon Richardson (signing)

This should come as no surprise. The Browns have made the biggest move this offseason so far. The great thing about NFL free agency and trades is that there is no rumors, the moves just happen. The trade for Odell Beckham and Olivier Vernon was just that and what a trade it was for Cleveland. Beckham is reunited with his old teammate from LSU, Jarvis Landry and is now paired with the best quarterback of his career, Baker Mayfield. Get ready for fireworks Cleveland.

The Browns also added defensive lineman, Sheldon Richardson to a 3 year deal to boost their defensive line. Also in a move that surprised and created major pushback, the Browns agreed to terms with ex Chief running back, Kareem Hunt. He was suspended and released by the Chiefs last season after a video of him pushing and kicking a young women surfaced. Hunt is one of the best young running backs in the league and if he can get his head back on straight, has the ability to take this Cleveland offense to another level.

2. New York Jets

Notable Additions: Le’Veon Bell, C.J. Mosley, Henry Anderson, Jamison Crowder (signing)

The big offseason target for the jets was none other than Le’Veon Bell and they got their man. The contact is valved at 4 years for 52.5 million. The contact surprised many, myself included. Many speculated Bell would receive a bigger contact, but many teams were hesiste of Bell after he sat out last season. New York was his highest offer and the Jets should be more than pleased with the deal.

In addition to Bell, the Jets signed the best middle linebacker available, C.J. Mosley. Mosley, still very young at age 26, spent the first 5 years of his career with Baltimore and was a huge factor for their defense. The Jets also added slot receiver, Jamison Crowder on a 3 year deal. Even with the loss of Anthony Barr, he committed to sign with the Jets but backed out and returned to the Vikings before making the deal official, the Jets signed their top offseason target and added a Pro-Bowl level linebacker.

3. New England Patriots

Notable additions: Michael Bennett (trade) Phillip Dorsett, Jason McCourty (signing)

The ever so quiet Patriots are quietly putting together another great offseason and doing it their way. They had the opportunity to resign defensive lineman, Trey Flowers and decided to move on. For context the Lions will be paying Flowers 16 million a season for the next 5 years. They also moved on from a key offensive lineman, Trent Brown. Brown signed with the Raiders and they made him the highest paid offensive lineman in the game, something the Patriots would never even consider.

The Patriots have quietly traded for a very good replacement for Flowers, Michael Bennett. Bennett was a major contributor in the Seahawks’ past 2 Super Bowl appearances. They also resigned Phillip Dorsett and Jason McCourty, average players that the Patriots know how to get the most out of. The patriots keep playing chess, while everyone else is playing checkers.

4. Green Bay Packers

Notable Additions: Preston Smith, Za’Darius Smith, Adrian Amos, Billy Turner (signing)

Another team who has flown under the radar this offseason. The Packers are not one to be known to spend a lot in free agency, but have made some very smart and beneficial moves so far this offseason. They have added 3 starter to their defense, always their major weakness with Aaron Rodgers as their quarterback. Preston Smith and Za’Darius Smith will boost their linebacker play instantly. Adrian Amos ,an underrated safety, will fill the void Ha Ha Clinton Dix left after the Packers traded him last season. Their defense is greatly improved from last year and with many rookies returning for their year two season, this Packer defense could be one of the best they have had in years.

5. Philadelphia Eagles

Notable Additions: Brandon Graham, Malik Jackson (signing) DeSean Jackson (trade)

The Eagles’ strength of their team just got better, their defensive line. They resigned defensive end Brandon Graham to a 3 year 40 million dollar deal and have also added ex-Jaguar defensive tackle, Malik Jackson. Their defensive line stands as one of the best in football and with these two signings make them arguably the best in football.

The Eagles also bring back an old friend this offseason, DeSean Jackson. The ex-Philly receiver spent the past 2 season in Tampa Bay. Jackson spent the first 6 years of his career in Philly and was a fan favorite the minute he got to town. The Eagles traded a 6th round pick for Jackson and after the deal became official quickly signed him to a 3 year extension. He will be a great deep threat target for strong armed quarterback, Carson Wentz.

Baseball’s biggest hero

Born Jack Roosevelt Robinson in the small town, Cairo, Georgia to sharecroppers and 4 older siblings, Jackie would turn into baseball’s biggest hero.72 years ago, Jackie made his MLB debut and what was to come would change the sport forever.

Throughout his career, Robinson faced all kinds of adversity, much of which he would overcome. In 1947, when Jackie made his MLB debut he became the first African American to ever play in the MLB. While the pressure to succeed in a white man’s sport was not enough, Robinson had to earn the acceptance and respect from not only the fans but his own teammates as well. While his teammates were skeptical at first, they were quick to realize how humble and how great of a person and ballplayer he was. “ Maybe one day we’ll all wear 42, so they can’t tell us apart.” Robinson’s teammate, Pee Wee Reese once famously said.

The fans and opposing players, however, were not so quick to accept Robinson into their game. Teams often times threw at Jackie’s head and would purposely step on his ankle while fielding. Fans were no better. He experienced veral as well as physical abuse from the fans. Derogatory names were yelled at Robinson on a daily basis, as well as objects such as food and baseballs were thrown at him from fans in the stands. The hate would follow him through his first season, however Robinson tried to not let it affect him and was rewarded with the NL Rookie of the Year Award after the 1947 season.

Robinson enjoyed a successful 10 year MLB career, which included the 1947 Rookie of the Year award, as well as the 1949 Most Valuable Player Award. He was a 6 time all star and also helped the Brooklyn Dodgers win the 1955 World Series.

Robinson once told future Hall of Fame inductee Hank Aaron that “the game of baseball is great, but the greatest thing is what you do after your career is over.” Robinson would continue to be involved with the game of baseball after he retired. He continued to give back to the game that gave so much to him.

Jackie Robinson, the man that broke the color barrier in the game of baseball, will forever hold a tremendous impact on the game. On January 31st, his birthday, we remember Jackie and the impact he has had for so many in the game of baseball today. He would have been 100 years old this year and the MLB will honor Mr. Robinson throughout the 2019 season for his contributions he has made towards baseball. “A life is not important except in the impact it has on other lives.”

The Lakers Plan for Anthony Davis

News broke early this morning that Anthony Davis does not see a future with the New Orleans Pelicans and will not sign an extension should the Pelicans present one to him. While the news sent the basketball world into a frenzy, the news should have been nothing of surprising.

Anthony Davis signed with Clutch Sports back in September, the same agency that represents LeBron James and since then the rumors began. Davis, who is enjoying the best season of his young career, is averaging career highs in points, rebounds and assists has been linked to LeBron and the Lakers since signing to Clutch Sports and Rich Paul, LeBron’s agent as well. The question now looms, will the Lakers indeed trade for Anthony Davis before February 7th, the trading deadline.

Should the Lakers trade for Anthony Davis this season?

There is no debat to wheater Anthony Davis is a top 10, top 5 to most, player in the NBA and would be a great sidekick to LeBron James. The question to me however is, do the Lakers actually need Anthony Davis this season and how much he could really help them this year.

The Pelicans want a boatload in return for Davis and rightfully so. Davis is a franchise player and generational talent and if/when they deal him they deserve to get a great return back. The similar situation happened with Paul George and the Indiana Pacers when they traded him to the Oklahoma City Thunder and receive a very good return for him. However, the Lakers should be hesitant with just how much they offer for Davis.

The initial reports state the Lakers must start the deal with Lonzo Ball, Kyle Kuzma, Ivica Zubac and their 2019 first round draft pick and that is simply just a starting spot, possibly not everything. That right there is 3 starters and Brandon Ingram, their 4th starter, could be included in the deal as well. The Lakers would essentially lose all their starters minus of course, LeBron. The Lakers would certainly be going all in acquiring Davis, but at the same time possibly destroy their young core and its potential.

With the projected trade that it would take to acquire Anthony Davis, the Lakers roster for the rest of this season would be depleted. They would essentially have no chance at competing with the Golden State Warriors come playoff time and not guarantee a better, deeper roster than the Houston Rockets, Denver Nuggets, or Oklahoma City Thunder. Would the Lakers break up their young core to just essentially be the second best team, at best, in the Western Conference this season? The answer should be no.

Will the Lakers trade for Anthony Davis this season?

The Lakers are an eager franchise that understands winning and expects to win each season. After this past offseason and the signing of LeBron James, the front office, the players, and especially the fans expect winning and acquiring Davis would certainly help with that.

The big appeal to the Lakers to trade for Anthony Davis right now is that their biggest competitor, the Boston Celtics, are unable to make a deal with the Pelicans for Anthony Davis before the trade deadline unless they include Kyrie Irving in the deal, which is not happening. The Lakers feel as they need to jump on this golden opportunity and make the deal right now before the Celtics get the chance and the front office is working hard to make it happen.

No player on the Lakers seem untouchable, other than LeBron of course, which makes the deal more likely to get done before the deadline.

I am sure the Lakers will indeed offer something to the Pelicans before the deadline, but will the offer be enough? Well that’s the million dollar question and my guess is that it will not be enough…for now.