What has happend this year with the Niners

Too many silly losses this year.. Chicago, St Louis, Seattle and yes that team across the Bay The Raiders. From the main legal troubles from Aldon Smith and Ray McDonald. Whats been the difference between the past three years and last year it seems the team was not on board. Maybe becasuse we are sensning a divided locker room this year. I mean sure there has been a lot of injuries this year, BUT when you have high expections and expected to compete for the Super Bowl and don't make it. Then you are going to have problems. Even though he has lead this team to 3 connsesctive NFC Championship appearinces and a Super Bowl appearance who is likely out because of many creative descions.

Jim Harbaugh.

They did however came to Seattle on Sunday and faught pretty hard they looked like them old selves. But then Frank Gore went out with a concussion and Carlos Hyde went out with an ankle injury and yes Alfonso Smith got his first playing time of the year but once again injuries have doomed this team this year. Sunday was not on the Niners but when you lose to the Raiders, Bears, and Rams games that you should have won than there is a lack of focus in Santa Clara behind close doors. If the Niners won the games that they should have then they would be 10-4 and very much in the playoff discussion. But now there worried who will stay and who would go. Who should we point the finger at? Is it the passionate owner that loves to tweet about effort, the GM that has let these off the field problems get to the team, or the head coach that got you to the promise land the past three years. News flash.... THERE ALL TO BLAME. This season had and will end badly... Sure the Niners lost some key players this year: Navarro Bowman, Patrick Willis, Glenn Dorsey, Anthony Davis. I mean the list goes on and on.. And yes those refs cost the game with the so called "roughing the passer pentaly called on LB Nick Moody. But the Offenese has regressed and well you know the whole story. I know this is the first year of the new stadium, the expectations increased. But when off- the field issues, injuries and corporate greed get in the way that doesn't win you Super Bowls JED.

 

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Jim Harbaugh should stay in Oakland instaad of leaving to Santa Clara

  tHE

What we saw in Oakland today was the end of an era, no not the Tony Sparano era but the end of the Jim Harbaugh era in San Francisco. The team looked like they were told to suck by owner Jed York to make Harbaugh and his staff look bad. They looked like idiots and made the Raiders looked like a team go to the playoffs with 24-13 win at O.Co Coliseum. Harbaugh looked defeated all day in The Black Hole and in his post-game press conference, and that's been the theme of this team this year. Now after two embarrassing defeats and outside of the playoff picture what to they have to look forward to The Foster Farms Bowl at Levi's Stadium starting Harbaugh's old employer Stanford. So this year has consisted of basically off the field issues, injuries, your owner tweeting about embarrassing performances and a head coach that is facing a pink slip in the off-season. This loss added on to the most embarrassing losses this year, Chicago, St. Louis, and yes the Seahawks who have bye Felicia to this 49ers era. But this loss was to a team that will be in the upper echelon of AFC teams in the next 2-3 years. I am assuming that after this year we will see somewhat of an administration change for the team in Red and Gold. Jed and GM Trent Baalke already know who will be their head coach once 2015 rolls around.

                 I know all of the rumors are saying Harbaugh will be at 66th and Hegenberger once this year is over but he didn't do himself any favors by losing on Sunday. The moment when he gets fired or traded Harbaugh will have all of the football monkeys wanting to pay him some Benjamin's. One of them is the team of the decades the Sliver and Black who of course have younger talent than his current employer. This season has ruined their chances of their #questforsix. This season was one of the most anticipated of the 49ers because of the new stadium, contract extensions for Joe Staley and Colin Kapernick, and how would Kap look with all of his new weapons. I know all of the players say they love him but assuming most of them want to hear a new voice every time they walk into team headquarters. Of course we all know who's next week, yep the defending Super Bowl Champs in Seattle. Last time they were there of course where their decline began.

Of course Harbaugh will be wearing the khakis with a different employer and the Niners faithful will have something else to cheer about, a new coach with a better offense. 

Congrats to the Raiders on their biggest win in the new regime and Niners I have officially stopped caring and see you at the NFL Draft.

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By the way Happy Holidays to all of you wherever you are reading this from. 

1.Travis Ishikawa sends the Giants to the World Series

Bobby Thompson, Aaron Boone and yes now Travis Ishikawa. What do these gentlemen have in common, Ending a League Championship Series with a home run. This guy almost left the game earlier this year. He got one more opportunity with the team that drafted him. Would I ever tell you he would be the starting left fielder in the postseason. No but the reason that I love watching baseball is because anybody could be a journeymen player one minute and a hero etched in history the next minute. What a wonderful season overall for our national pastime .

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2. Jeter ends his magical story

I know your asking your self what is he doing here on my list. Well he's been the face of baseball for the past 20 seasons through one of the worst eras in our National Pastime: The Steroid Era. And like I said on my Instagram page two months ago he has done it all for this game and when we watched it my dad said " He is going to hit a walk-off hit opposite field", then what do you know.. The greatest opposite field hitter in the game , in his final at-bat at Yankee Stadium goes opposite field. Thank you Derek!!!

#RE2PECT

3. Do not PANIK!!!!!

Sure we could look back this game as Madison Bumgarner dominating or Bruce Bochy plugging this lineup in but this really perserved the game for the Giants. I mean who is Marco Scutaro now? Panik said to the media after the game that his belt snapped in half but who could blame him because he the Giants 2nd baseman for years to come. If it was not for this double play would this team be a DYNASTY?

4. The Moose is Loose

Mike Moustakes hit five home runs this postseason which was a Royals postseason record. But since this team got to a World Series based on their speed and defense I decided to show a top play based on speed and defense. This catch took place in the ALCS Game 3 with the game tied and this catch really put Baltimore on the golf courses since they got swepted. 

5. The Missile strikes.....

Now you ask yourself why is this play number five on this list. Well because of the amazing plays that happened later in the season. Yes I am making A's fans watch this and ask themselves what could  have been, but this throw is the main reason Cespedes got nominated for a Gold Glove nomination this year. If Billy Beane is watching this my hash tag is this...

#BRINGCESPEDESBACK

6. Steven Souza Diving catch preserves no-no

Before this play happened on the final day of the season Who was Steven Souza Jr? Well he was drafted in 2007 by the Nationals in the same draft class with guys like David Price, Madison Bumgarner, Matt Wieters and Sean Doolittle. He also made this amazing catch on the final day of the season to get the Nationals first no hitter in their history pitched by Jordan Zimmerman. Now you ask yourselves how could this play be number 6 on this list well here are the five that topped it.

7. Puig making a highlight real catch in Queens

What Yasiel Puig has so far throughout his career is a roller-coster. Whatever you want to say about him is your opinion but this kid has the talent and poise of a phenom. I believe this catch alone proves that he belongs with Bryce Harper, Mike Trout and the future faces of this game. This catch is speechless when I watched it and that's why its my number 7 play of the year.

8. Desmond Jennings no look catch.

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2014_04_24_minmlb_tbamlb_1&mode=

video&content_id=32354915&tcid=vpp_copy_32354915

 

 

 

 

This play happened in April 2014 when the Rays faced the Twins. Jennings was playing Center Field when Trevor Plouffe hit a ball that was out of any ballpark, but when you are in Tampa and espically in a dome if you hit a ball it has to go out. Jennings just proved that Tampa love Domes jk and for that reason you should click on the link for our number 8 play of the year. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



9. Tulowitzkis glove of magic.....

http://mlb.mlb.com/mlb/gameday/index.jsp?gid=2014_04_15_colmlb_sdnmlb_1&mode=video&content_id=32104811&tcid=vpp_copy_32104811


Yes I am sorry if it wasn't for these corporate big wigs then we would have videos right now... But screw them my number 9 video of the year is Troy Tulowitzki's change in direction to make a bare handed play. This play happened in April against San Diego If you want to see the amazing play please click the provided link above. The play was simple ball deflects off the pitcher and Tulo makes his glove sparkle with this play. Its too bad that his season came to an early end but I believe next year we will see this happen more times then not

Top 10 plays of the Baseball Season

                     Welcome to the end of the baseball season ladies and gentlemen. This year had some ups and downs for our two local baseball teams for the Postseason bound A's and yes the dynasty bounded Giants. So yes I have 10 plays that will be on the highlight real FOREVER....
Starting with number 10 and on these videos will come in separate posts.... starting with number 10...

10.Josh Reddick robs Two Homeruns in the same game....

10. I know Spring Training is just " Yeah Baseball is slowly coming back", but Josh Reddick thought it was the Regular season.. Cue the Spider man Music .... Not only one but two catches and robbing the same batter in Michael Morse






Here are the two differinces between the catches...
Second is on the left and the First is on the Right. Which do you like better?

Going The Distance in the Fall Classic

I believe you might want to take a day off on Wednesday because that's how far this series will go. Last night the Giants did what they needed to do in scoring runs, getting base hits, and a never say die attitude. Who do you think has the momentum the Giants or the Royals? That will come after Sunday Night. There were many key hits last night but the key moment wasn't letting Kansas City have a lead going into the 7th inning. Going into the 7th innings of Game 2 and 3 the Royals were ahead in the scoreboard. That allowed Ned Yost to give the ball to Herrera, Davis, and Holland and shut down the lights. But last night the ball was given to the 21-  year old rookie Brandon Finnegan. He recently got selected by the Royals in the 2014 MLB Draft back in June. Yes MLB has a draft that is pretty boring... Anyways earlier this year he pitched for TCU in the College World Series making him the player ever to appear both in the World Series and the College World Series in the same year. Maybe he should have stayed in college because when he came in the game with the score 4-4 in the bottom of the 6th. He came out of it giving up three runs and now the score was 7-4. And you guessed it the Giants never looked back. And who was the winning pitcher for the Giants,  Ryan Vogelsong. No it was that Yusmerio Peit who has conintued to keep the Giants alive this year. He has thrown 12 shutout innings this postseason in three separate appearances. Considering the fact he was in the bullpen to start off the year. And how about the Panda. He is in a contract year and he's been going back to 2012 postseason where he was Mr. October that year. I mean sure he struggled in the late summer, but this is October and this is the World Series and he's rolling around flashing the leather that makes him a Gold Glove semi- finalist for the National League at the hot corner

And taking harder swings in and out of the strike zone getting some key hits. If the Panda and this team in general, do the same things that have won them two World Series Titles in four years. Will they get a 3rd in five years? We still have a long way to go but this series is not over by all means.

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The Emotional Woes of a Pitcher

The emotional woes could take a toll on you. That's what happend in Game 2 yesterday with the Rookie Hunter Strickland and the Giants. As you have known mr. Strickland gave up his 5th home run this postseason tied for the most given up in a postseaon. Remember last year in the ALDS between the A's and Tigers how Grant Balfour was yelling at himself and Victor Martinez kind of felt offended. Is it me or are Latin American players epically Dominican players are hot heads. I mean Salvador Perez did not need to look at Strickland yelling at himself. But when you now a guy is yelling at himself and not you then you should run your dugout. The Royals looked overmatched on Tuesday night, but last night made the Royals feel like they belong here. This loss ended the Giants 7 game winning streak in The Fall Classic. This was the most embarrassing  moment in the Bruce Bochy's postseason tenure with the Orange and Black. Mr. Strickland outing, six pitches, a wild pitch, four runs and the national T.V. audience remembering him for the wrong reasons. I mean it's not his fault that they lost...  I mean I believe Bochy''s decision making had to be question as well in that 6th inning. Hey Bruce how about you let Javier Lopez actually pitch to rightes for once. Tim Lincecum looked good until he got hurt. Don't get me wrong I still believe that the Giants will become a dynasty this year but once you fire up that young KC Royals team and Ned Yost hands it off to the trio of Kelvin Herrrea, Wade Davis, and Greg Holland then this series will be back here next week.

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Raiders going into the Right Direction?

The Raiders past two games have been encouraging but guess what they are the only winless team in the National Football League. I mean it is not like their getting blown out in their losses but they have been competitive since Dennis Allen packed his bags and Tony Sparano took over. They haven't played a squash game yet, they have played a difficult schedule coming into this point. These past two losses are against teams that will most likely be playing in January and have been very encouraging. But not having won a game since last year should and will piss the players and piss off the Raider Nation.  But when they started adding free agents in the off- season it looked like The Raiders were clearly one year away from the playoffs. But of course I was dreaming and it is not true. There 2-4 lightyears away.....

                                        

                                            It is really just simple, as the great Al Davis is saying in his grave 

" Just Win One Game Baby", it is that simple. Do you want to join the no win club like the Detroit Lions did back in 2008? I mean they only have 10 more games to win or lose. If they win 6 of their last four I believe Tony Sparano keeps his job. Their next chance is the team that let the Jacksonville Jaguars get their first win: The Cleveland Browns. Carson Palmer must of been happy to thrown two TD passes on Sunday then rather throw Two Interceptions for the Sliver and Black. Derek Carr has shown that he is the Face of The Franchise. Yes he threw a pick that cost the game against San Diego. But what are you suppost to expect from a Rookie QB. Take your team 16-0, HELL No. On defense you have Khalil Mack another franchise piece. But when your best player on the defenese is the 38 year old Veteran Charles Woodson then there is a sign of a major problem. I personally believe the Raiders are a couple of pieces away from being taken seriously. You cannot have moral losses in this game... However you can build on moral losses but actually winning football games period. It starts this Sunday in Lebron's town Cleveland.

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Nines still have a another half to go.

The Niners obvoulsy got man-handled by the rating defending AFC Champions in the Denver Broncos. As a Niners fan watching this injury-depleted lineup go out there and let the rating MVP Peyton Manning take care of buisness and break the all time record for Passing TD's was depressing. Did I want to see the record broken Hell Yeah, but this game should have been a lot closer than  it was. The Niners have been relying on depth at almost every position which is good but when you are in January/Febuary chasing that elusive Lombardi Trophy that philosphy will not work. Just look at the Seattle Seahawks for example. They have more losses now than they did last season. Why Because of numerous injuries and locker room problems mostly with Piercy Harvin who last week was told to Pack his bags and go to the Jets. The Niners could not have a bye at a better week. Look who they will get back after the bye week

Injuries

Patrick Willis

Chris Culiver

Jimmie Ward

Mike Iupati

Tramaine Brock

Navarrro Bowman

Glenn Dorsey

Suspenison

Aldon Smith

Yes I know the starting center Daniel Kilgore is out for the season with a fractured leg and Rookie Marcus Martin will most likey be the starting Center, but I feel like a 4-3 record sure is better than a 3-4 record without Aldon Smith. I mean sure we should have beaten the Bears and Cardinals, but the Bears have not won at Solider Field this year and the Cardinals might be peaking a little to early just ask the Angels.  Lets look at the remaining schedule for the red and gold.

HOME GAMES

Rams
Redskins
Seahawks
Chargers
Cardinals

Road Games
@ New Orleans
@ Giants
@ Raiders
@ Seattle
 

The Nines have a favorable schedule after the bye week. If they win at least
 7 out their next nine then It's going to be another quest for six this January.

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Giants have already won the world series

The Giants have already won the World Series. I did not think they were going to win it back in June where they had the second worst record in the National League. Yes I know there will be a Game 5 tonight at 3rd and King but let's face it without Yadier Molina the games best defensive catcher not playing unless in a defense role in the late innings. Like in the picture the Giants will add another banner this year. They shine in October while the A's are built for a hundred and sixty two and not for the 12 games to win in October. The Cardinals won't advance not because of Joe Buck always raising his voice win the Cardinals always get on base ( HE IS FROM ST.LOUIS) but because of defense mistakes like Matt Adams had in the 6th inning last night. Of course The Cards had a chance of closing it out two years ago having a 3-1 series lead but we all know what happend two years ago. I don't see that happening this year. My NLCS MVP will be yes Madison Bumgarner who will continue to dominate in the postseason. And drink more beers as the Giants will eat some Ribs in Kansas City Next Week.

Stanford worse loss in years.

Hello Friends, sorry I have been away for a while. I have just been busy and going to places to San Diego and NYC really was amazing and meeting some incredible people was amazing. Anyways back to reality of sports... Stanford lost yesterday to 14 ranked USC who has now owned them for back to back years. I mean I was expecting a closer game more like 27-24 but not 13-10 and USC escaping the Farm with a win. The past four years under Jim Harbaugh/David Shaw have been the best period of Stanford Football in program history. I mean going to four consecutive BCS BOWL games is really remarkable considering how many great programs there are in the SEC. But what us Cardinal fans witnessed has to go down as one of the worst losses in these four years.  Usually when you think of Stanford football you think of hard-nosed, pound the rock football right.. but when you get into your opponents' 30 eight times and come away with a Patrick Skov running TD and Jordan Williamson FG that does not win you ball games. When you have a total of 413 total yards game and only tally 10 points you don't win football games. And as all Bay Area football kickers should know you cannot miss a gimme 26 yard field goal with the wind at your back. That to all of us felt like three losses in a day. I'm sure most of the country tuned into this game on ABC and the new College Football Committee has now crossed off Stanford of the list and not going to Arlington in January. However now if the Cardinal want to win their third straight PAC-12 title then they need to win out. How hard is that well lets go to their schedule on the road. Their at Washington, at Norte Dame, at Arizona State, at Oregon, and at UCLA, and yes Golden Bear fans since you are the last bay area college football team undefeated then yes now at Cal. And another scary moment was when tailback Remound Wright had his own gaffe when he muffed and exchange with QB Kevin Hogan. Its hard when you have a running back by committee and you have costly mistakes like that. If I was David Shaw I am assuming that Barry Sanders Jr. is now the starter right. If the Cardinal wants another shot at USC it mostly likely has to come in the PAC-12 Championship game December 5th just 35 minutes down the highway at Levi's Stadium. And this possibly has launched antoher period in which USC will win multiple national titles for the next 10 years. Sure we had chances yesterday, Ty Montgomery looked like an early Heisman candidate yes America I went there. The Defense looked great expect for USC's last drive that gave kicker Andre Hevari the go-ahead score. Kevin Hogan was rock solid with 22 for 30 with 285 yards passing and yes no Passing TD's. I know its early in the college football season but could this win kick the Steve Sarkisian era into the direction of their first  PAC-12 championship since Pete Carroll left..... We will wait and see.


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World Cup Picks

As the World Cup gets closer and closer, I've decided to have some fun with it. As of today, I'm starting a group where we can make our picks (similar to March Madness). I just finished creating mine, and I want you to join us in making our selections!

The inspiration came from watching Jose Mourinho make his selections on Yahoo! earlier today. I want to see how the rest of us normal folk can do. Check out his video here:



To join our group, simply click on the following link: http://y.ahoo.it/s9VeqL04. This will take you to our page and group, Doe FC. It should look like this:

Once there, just follow the instructions given and make your picks. Then, tweet us @HTWDSports to inform us that you're in. Let's see how well we do against one another. Good luck!

Aldon Smith and our forty-warrants

Aldon Smith could have dodged a bullet. I mean sure he has basically been Trent Baalke's best draft pick (sorry Eric Reid) but as you known Mr. Smith has been arrested 4 times within his short but spectacular NFL career. He's been a pro-bowler, an All- Pro. He is the fastest to reach 30 sacks in his career, but this has been a character problem. The Niners have led the league in arrests with nine. Yes I know there has been a muderer or a stabbing but this is getting out of hand. Sure Baalke picked up Smith's fifth-year opinion on his contract saying they have to take a human approach on this but really when is enough, enough. If Bill Walsh came out of his grave and saw this Aldon would have been on the streets looking for a job. I do not care if you are Charles Haley or "The Freak" Jermaine Kerase. But when you get in trouble you have to do the time. If he doesn't get suspended then Baalke,  Jed York, and Jim Harbaugh need to have a talk and really give him a reality check. If the dictator Roger Goodell decides to drop the hammer on young Aldon I would not be surpised . Let us start talking about Corey Lemonier sacking Russell Wilson at Levis.

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Video: Federer Through Glass

I don't know if you guys have had the chance to see this yet, but you really should. Yesterday, Roger Federer posted a video of him playing tennis on his YouTube channel. But, it is no ordinary video. In it, it shows him practicing with his coach, Stefan Edberg, while wearing Google Glass.

Apparently, Federer & co. stopped by the Google campus recently to take a look at their latest product. He decided to give it a spin, and the results were very interesting. It reminds of the video that Bethanie Mattek-Sands did a few months back, except it's the male tennis version. It shows you just how fast the professional level is, even at a laid back pace. There's a lot of movement going on, but it's very much worth watching.

Take a look below, and let us know what you think!

Steve Kerr Is Smooth





Steve Kerr was officially introduced as the new Head Coach of your Golden State Warriors yesterday. After three weird, awkward years with Mark Jackson it appears as Kerr has won the Front Office. He speaks it likes it is he will tell the reporters like it is and want he wants done to his team. The Problem that Mark Jackson had with media is he did not tell us what area the team needed help on something that really pissed off Joe Lacob and Co. off their seats. After firing a coach that has taken you to back-to-back postseasons and a 50- win season, If they fail like this year here is what Lacob said." No, We are committed to Steve for the long-term". Kerr wanted a asssisant coach with head coaching expiernce. Could the Warriors get Kevin Love? The Warriors should trade a young piece like Harrison Barnes or David Lee? If the Warriors get Love here's are two main reasons why we should get Kevin Love

1. Better Physically than Lee.

 2. Kevin Love is younger than Lee. Kevin is 25 and only entering his prime. David is six years older and starting going on the wrong side of thirty.

Could The Warriors get their dream piece in K- Love. If the Warriors get Kevin Love they will be not only the Western Conference Contender but they will be going for a title. 

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The PLAYERS Championship: Five To Thrive

Photo via pgatour.com

The weekly "Five To Thrive" column continues this week in one of the biggest PGA Tour events of the year, the PLAYERS Championship.

Well, we haven't done this in a while. Since the Masters, a lot has been going on within our blog and I wasn't able to devote time to write these weekly columns. Thankfully, we're all settled in again. With that said here are the top 5 golfers you should keep an eye on this week:

5. Sergio Garcia  - Although he disappointed at the Masters with a missed cut, Garcia should be on track for a bounce back week. He is one of the few players who can handle the complexity of this course, as he's made 10 straight cuts here. Controversy followed him around last year while he was fighting Tiger for the title, but without TW in the mix, I think Sergio will have a solid week.

4. Jimmy Walker - The current FedEx Cup leader missed the cut in his last start, but had a solid showing at Augusta with a top ten finish. The PLAYERS is the toughest tournament to be consistent at, but I think Walker will give another good performance, as he continues the greatest golf year of his life.

3. Matt Kuchar - The 2012 champ finally has a win this year, at the RBC Heritage. That showed me that he has regained the ability to close out tournaments like an elite player should. Nothing really fazes Matt, which bodes well for a closing stretch that requires incredible mental strength.

2. Rory McIlroy - The just turned 25 year-old isn't a big fan of this course (missed cut in '09 and skipping it in 2010), but that doesn't mean he can't win here. Rory is finally figuring out how to swing the Nike clubs well, which means a win is right around the corner for him. It could definitely be here.

1. Jordan Spieth - This young phenom has now gotten my full attention. After an incredible performance at The Masters, it's tough to not be in awe of this guy. I didn't think he was ready to win at Augusta, but I sure do think he is ready to win at TPC Sawgrass. He is wise beyond his years in every aspect. This will be HIS week.

Well, there you have it. These are my 5 players to thrive at The PLAYERS. Let us know your 5 in the comments, or tweet at us @HTWDSports!

Amateur Analysis: What do the Sharks need to do in the off-season?

The Sharks did not beat LA. They shot themselves in the foot and played way too conservative. They fell short of expectations and choked in the postseason for what the 11th year in a row. By now we should have 4 Stanley Cups.

1. They need to deal with administration problems. Sharks GM Doug Wilson said that he wants the coaching staff back for next year. Well that decision is up to owner Hasso Plattner who doesn't talk to the media. Personally you need to start fresh. Todd Mcellean has done a great job in the regular season, but guess what results  matter in the postseason and no cups in eight years. You could also fire Doug Wilson who has not been aggressive in the trade deadline. If you want to put butts in seats that is what he is doing right now. If you want to win a cup then you have to grow a pair and start pulling the trigger.

2. There is some notable players hitting free agency. Dan Boyle will be 38 before the season and wants a multi-year deal. Will I want to sign him? Maybe but just for two years because you have Micro Muller our 2013 draft pick is rising up so Boyle will be a stopgap. Mike Brown and Tommy Wingels are unrestricted free agents. Backup goalie Alex Stalock is a UFA but most likely wants to start and wont get that when Antti Nemi is around between the pipes so he might go elsewhere.  Tommy Wingels who had a career best 16 goals and James Sheppard who was my MVP in the playoffs are restricted free agents whitch the Sharks can resign those players easily.

3.  The Sharks need guys with heart and grit. They need to sign guys like Matt Moulson. Moulson who had a total of  23 goals with Buffalo, the New York Islanders and now the Minnosota Wild. He is a guy who he will score in the dirty areas like in the crease witch is the Sharks definitely need to compete with Anaheim and LA. Another player that Sharks Fans cannot believe I am saying this but Jerome Ignina. Sure he is past his prime but add some traits that the Sharks need. The Sharks need to get rid of  Martin Havalt who as you known has fallen short of expectations.

4. The Sharks top trade targets should be Brayden Schenn of the Philidelphia Flyers. The Flyers have a abdunce of centers; Shenn is a bonnafide 20- goal scorer and will become bigger he will both play physical minutes in the slot area that can play top-six minutes. Joel Ward could be also good because the Capitals want to rebuild.

Bottom Line: Sharks need physical goal scorers and they have not had that since Ryane Clowe left town. If you want to win the Sharks need to be aggressive in the off-season or else you will get the pink slip.


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2

HTWD Recap: Real Madrid Knocks Out Bayern Munich

I certainly didn't see this coming.

I was confident that Real Madrid would be able to advance to the UEFA Champions League final, but I did not expect them to demolish Bayern Munich. A 4-0 drubbing (5-0 agg) is an incredible result against a team that looked virtually unbeatable, until today. Madrid made Bayern look like a weak La Liga side.

Although the only stat the Madrid got dominated on was possession, they controlled pretty much everything else. At home, Bayern looked surprisingly nervous. They never seemed to get into the game, and by the 30th minute, it was pretty much over.

Let's see if they can get "La Decima" this season, or if Atletico/Chelsea will have something to say about that...

Highlights:

Join the Team!

Photo via the thehippietriathlete

As you guys may or may not know, the amount of blogging I've been doing in 2014 has been pretty pathetic. Simply put, I haven't had much time to write as much as I'd like, and that bothers me. I have so many things I'd like to write about, but so little time to do so.

That's where you guys come in.

I'm looking for a few more people who are willing to blog/write with me on here. I feel that if we get enough of a team going, this site can continue to grow. Unfortunately, I'm a broke college student, so I won't be able to pay anyone, but I will give you the ability to write on here to gain some valuable experience in sports journalism.

If you are interested in writing with me on this blog, then feel free to contact me. You can either: send me an e-mail (jjsanchez92@yahoo.com), tweet/DM my personal account (@JJSanchez92), or tweet/DM our twitter account (@HTWDSports).

Hope to see some of you join the blog. Together, we can improve our writing skills and hopefully get some more experience in the sports media world!!!

- J.J.

HTWD Report: David Moyes Sacked

Photo via the reddevil

Well, it's official. David Moyes' time at Manchester United is up, with ESPN and the club themselves confirming the rumors.

Moyes' stint was short lived, as he only served 9 months of an initial 6 year contract. Under him, United will not win any trophies this season, and are well off the pace for a Champions League spot next season.

Many fans and pundits that were accustomed to the winning ways of Sir Alex Ferguson just could not fathom how this season was going for the Red Devils. With 1 transfer window and less than a season of tactical ideas to work with, Moyes failed to get the results that everyone expected out of one of the best clubs in the world.

In my opinion, sacking him this early is a bit ridiculous. I don't agree with any manager or coach getting fired before their maiden season is over. Moyes' was given little time to turn Manchester into his squad, not just SAF's with a few changes. Fergie left a team that was on the decline last year. The only reason they won the league was due to an incredible season by Robin van Persie. They've had problems with their back four and a midfield that has struggled to create chemistry. Fixing this mess was going to take time, and Moyes' simply wasn't given enough.

Was it his fault for not producing better results? Yes. 7th in the table is not good enough, even with an aging side. They should still be fighting for a UCL spot, not for a Europa League place. But, he also should have been given a pass. Transitional years are tough, and don't always yield positive results. 3 seasons is a more optimal time frame, as that would have given him some time to implement the team and style that he would want to run at the club. Unfortunately, that didn't happen.

Now, it seems that Ryan Giggs will take over as interim coach as the Glazer's search for a new manager. Although this new manager will likely be considered an upgrade to what Moyes did in his stint, he will still have to get the unfair comparisons to Sir Alex. How he'll be able to manage that pressure in a "win now" world will be interesting.

The Masters: Five To Thrive

The weekly "Five To Thrive" column continues this week in the first major event of the year, the Masters Championship.

After what seemed liked forever since the PGA Championship, we have finally returned to a major championship! Now, the season really begins. Even without Tiger, we should still be set for a wonderful Masters tournament. With lots of drama going on in the weeks before Augusta, it will be interesting to see who will put on the green jacket on Sunday evening. Here are the top 5 golfers you should keep an eye on this week:

5. Sergio Garcia  - El Nino still doesn't think he has what it takes to win a major. I disagree. The Masters may not be the place where he breaks through, but I still think he will give a strong showing, especially considering the form he's in. And, if he's hanging around on Sunday afternoon, you just never know what could happen. Vamos Sergio!

4. Adam Scott - The defending champ just had to be on the list. Even though he blew an oppurtunity at Bay Hill to cement his status as a favorite, he's still the number 2 player in the world. I don't think Adam will repeat his 2013 victory, but he will definitely put in a valiant effort.

3. Matt Kuchar - Although Mr. Consistency couldn't close it out yesterday at the Shell Houston, I feel that he will still be a contender here. He might not win it, but a top 10 is almost assured for Matt. He's just too good.

2. Phil Mickelson - Phil has been showing some signs of life lately, but he's still not the Phil we all know and love. The way I see it, that will all change this week. For some players, Augusta is the medicine that they need. I think we will see Lefty in the hunt this week.

1. Rory McIlroy - Ahh, Rory. I know he's had his troubles in this tournament (2011, 2012, 2013 come to mind), but this year he seems different. Even though he couldn't close it out at the Honda, I think he's ready to win a major again. I expect Mr. McIlroy to be wearing the green jacket on Sunday.

Well, there you have it. These are my 5 players to thrive at The Masters. Let us know your 5 in the comments, or tweet at us @HTWDSports!

Amateur Analysis: USMNT Release 2014 Away Kits

Earlier this morning, the United States Soccer Federation finally announced the design and look of the away kit that the USMNT will be sporting in Brazil this summer.

To contrast the fairly bland, almost pure white home kits that were released last month, the USSF went bold. A lighter blue combined with white in the middle and red on the bottom of the shirt has definitely caused mixed reaction and debate. Check out the kit yourself in this photo:

In my opinion, these aren't that great. The blue isn't the navy blue we see on our flag, and quite frankly, it looks more like a training top than a shirt you'd see in the heat of battle. I'm sure they'll grow on me eventually, but I'm pretty disappointed. I thought the best kits they've had so far were the ones from the 2010 World Cup. Last year's Centennial Crest kit and all navy away kit weren't too shabby, either. 

Take a look at what some USMNT fans from the Twitter universe had to say about the new jerseys:

So the USMNT away kits are an April Fool's joke, right? Because that is France's blue...
— Kelly Hackenbrack (@kmhackenbrack) April 1, 2014

The #USMNT World Cup kits are a disaster
— Tyler Franz (@FranzSolo) April 1, 2014

Actually like the new #USMNT away kits, eye popping
— Wein (@nickweinstein27) April 1, 2014

The USMNT world cup kits look sickk
— Arnela (@ArnelaCordic) April 1, 2014

What are your thoughts on the new shirt? Let us know in the comments, or tweet at us @HTWDSports 

Valero Texas Open: Five To Thrive

The weekly "Five To Thrive" column continues this week in the first Texas event of the year, the Valero Texas Open.

After some fun in the sun in Florida, the TOUR heads to Texas for the Valero Texas Open. This is the penultimate event before The Masters, so lots of players are heading to TPC San Antonio hone their game before Augusta. Here are the top 5 golfers you should keep an eye on this week:

5. J.B. Holmes - Long hitting J.B. finally showed some signs of life with a top ten finish last week at Arnie's event. I've always been a fan of his style, and I hope his good momentum can give him another solid tournament this week.

4. Jordan Spieth - He's quieted down a bit after his hot start, but I think this will be a good week for the young star. After a bit of rest, I think Jordan is primed for another great week, and should be in the mix on Sunday afternoon.

3. Matt Kuchar - The usually consistent Kuchar didn't make much noise in the Sunshine State, which surprised me a bit. Shouldn't be a surprise if he contends this week though; he has 2 top-25 finishes here. I expect Kooch to get back on track.

2. Zach Johnson - Zach always seems to play well at this event (2 wins), and with The Masters right around the corner, I know he wants to hit peak form. Although he might not win this week, I expect ZJ to show us why he's still one of the best Americans playing right now.

1. Phil Mickelson - Look, I know Phil hasn't had the greatest season so far, but that's just who he is. He's one of the streakiest players we have in the game, and that's what makes him so entertaining. Here's to hoping he surprises a lot of us and comes out on top!

Well, there you have it. These are my 5 players to thrive at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Let us know your 5 in the comments, or tweet at us @HTWDSports!

Arnold Palmer Invitational: Five To Thrive

The weekly "Five To Thrive" column resumes this week in the last Sunshine State event for a little while, the Arnold Palmer Invitational at Bay Hill.

It's always bittersweet to know that we are at Arnie's event. It's good to know that we are only weeks away from the Masters, but it also means the end of the Florida swing, which is one of my favorite stretches during the season. Nonetheless, we keep moving on whether we like it or not! Here are the top 5 golfers you should keep an eye on this week:

5. Ryan Moore - Defending champ of the CIMB classic, this 32 year old American will look to land another PGA Tour win. Currently 9th in the FedEx cup standings, I think Ryan is due for a good tournament.

4. Justin Rose - Although Mr. Rosie hit a terrible chunk during the final round at the Valspar Championship last week, he still managed to grab a top 10. Even though he may still not be 100% healthy, I foresee another top 10 for Justin at Bay Hill.

3. Tiger Woods - The defending champ has really had a poor season so far. He has more WD's than top 10s, which is not a good sign with the Masters right around the corner. Still suffering from a sore back, any result from Tiger is possible this week. I'm still optimistic that he can contend here, since he's won this tournament like a million times. But, a missed cut could be likely. Hopefully we get 4 full, mostly healthy rounds from Woods to really see where his game is trending.

2. Patrick Reed - A self proclaimed "top 5 player in the world", Patrick Reed will have many more eyes on him this week. Currently, he does have the right to say he's a top player, as he's one of the few with multiple wins in this early season. But, with The King watching, we will see if he can deliver with the pressure on him.

1. Graeme McDowell - G-Mac has a pretty solid track record here, with a 2nd place showing in 2012. Coming off of a top-10 at the WGC event 2 weeks ago, I think McDowell is primed for a big tournament. A win here ahead of the Masters wouldn't surprise me. He's finally looking like he is ready to challenge for his 2nd major title.

Well, there you have it. These are my 5 players to thrive at the Arnold Palmer Invitational. Let us know your 5 in the comments, or tweet at us @HTWDSports!

Valspar Championship: Five To Thrive

Photo via innisbrookgolfresort.com

Our "Five To Thrive" column continues this week at another PGA Tour stop in Florida, the Valspar Championship.

This week, the PGA Tour heads to Copperhead for the Valspar Championship, aka the Tampa Bay Classic. Unfortunately, this tournament is jammed into two marquee events (WGC Cadillac & Bay Hill), so it doesn't get an elite field. But, it does always manage to bring great drama with an incrdible finishing set of holes.  Let's take a look at the 5 players to watch this week:

5. K.J. Choi - A 2-time winner of this event, Choi really enjoys the challenge that Copperhead brings. He may not be as consistent as he used to be, but some tournaments bring out the best in players. I think that this is the place for K.J. to turn back the clock and contend.

4. Kevin Streelman - The defending champ! He's been in some decent form as of late, with a top-25 finish at Doral last week. I don't think he will win the tournament, but I do think he will put up a good fight in order to defend his title.

3. Luke Donald - His tournament at Doral was nothing short of ridiculous; shot an 82 and still managed to finish in the top-25! If that's not pure grinding, then I don't know what is. The 2012 winner should carry that momentum into a good week here.

2. Justin Rose - J. Rose has been dealing with a shoulder injury for a while now, but after some adequate treatment I think he should be okay for this week. He's never missed a cut at Copperhead, and I don't expect that streak to end this year.

1. Jordan Spieth - This American phenom has been nothing short of sensational this year. He's arguably been the most consistent player on the PGA Tour in 2014. He hasn't collected a win this year yet, but that should change this week. I see Spieth winning the title and giving experts a lot to consider when making their Masters predicitons in about a month.

Well, there you have it. These are my five golfers to thrive this week at the Valspar Championship. Let us know who you think will thrive this week in the comments below, or tweet us @HTWDSports!