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How They Stack Up
 So much has been said about what the AFC North is about now that the Cincinatti Bengals have added Terrell Owens. Okay, he's worth talking about because he's T.O., but I really don't get any other reason that this move is noteworthy.
Let's look at the division and the stack the teams up by units over the next 10 days. We'll examine quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, offensive lines, defensive lines, linebackers, secondaries,special teams, and coaching staffs beginning with quarterbacks today:
Quarterbacks
This battle belongs to Ben Roethlisberger. With Ben missing up to six weeks, he may take a back stage to Joe Flacco this season. No one has the ability to take over a game in this division like Roethlisberger. He's done it without an offensive line for the better part of three seasons.
With Roethlisberger on the shelf, look for Flacco to statistically take over in the division. Flacco completed over 63% of his passes for over 3,600 yards, 21 touchdowns and a quarterback rating over 88. He'll have to prove he can take over a game and pass for over 4,000 yards in order to take the reigns from Roethlisberger.
No, I did not forget about Carson Palmer. He's a very good quarterback, but his ability to make all of the throws have been a big question mark for the Bengals. Even with all of the weapons around him, you still have to question what Palmer can do with those weapons.
The AFC North will have three solid quarterbacks when Roethlisberger returns. The quarterback who plays best may win the division for his team. The Cleveland Browns won't win because the division doesn't have four good quarterbacks, unless you count Marc Bulger.
Rob Long
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No More Questions
 One of the biggest questions going into training camp was if Terrell Suggs was going to show up in shape. Last season, Suggs showed up out of shape and his season was effected by it.
Then, this season, Suggs did not seem really interested in attending OTAs, and that was frowned upon. That led to fans anticipating his arrival to see if he looked to be in good shape.
Mike Duffy of Baltimoreravens.com reported that Suggs looked slim and trim as he reported to camp. According to Duffy, "As for Suggs, he seemed to be slimmer than he was at this time last year, when he reported to training camp at 283 pounds. Suggs told BaltimoreRavens.com two weeks ago that he was in the mid 260s, and he certainly looked the part."
Mike Duffy also reported that Jared Gaither also reported to camp on time, so with all of that being said, are there any questions remaining for the Ravens? Have all of the questions now been answered?
No, we still have Ed Reed and the health of the other members of the secondary. Those guys are critical to the Ravens success. The timetables of their returns are uncertain now, and until it's known, there will be questions remaining for the Baltimore Ravens. Those questions exist because this is not a team trying to just make the play-offs. This is a team that's trying to play in Dallas.
Rob Long
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A Great Pro Football City
 At one point, Baltimore was a great sports city. The Colts were great, the Orioles were becoming a dynasty and the fans found a way to share the love for both teams.
Now, that's no longer the case. While Baltimore has "Purple Fever" and loving it, the city has no love at all for the baseball team anymore. The losing has taken a toll on the fanbase and to say that there's apathy would be an understatement. People go out of their way to tell you how much they hate this team.
On Tuesday, I even expressed on the Rob Long Show how I did not even turn my television to the O's game on Monday. I felt guilty about it, but I still struggled to turn the game on Tuesday.
Thank God it's football season because if I had to continue to talk baseball, people would find their favorite music station to listen to. Football gives us something to smile about. Football gives us a reason to feel as if "we" have a real chance to win. Football makes us great as a fanbase.
Rob Long
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Enough Talking
 Over the past week, it seems that there have been lots of words surrounding the Baltimore Ravens. For awhile, it seemed like nervous energy until the accident with Sergio Kindle.
Now, the rest of the team has to put the words aside and get into training camp and just play football. Yes, there will be quotes and press conferences during this season, but for the most part, it's what the Ravens do on the field that will really matter.
After two straight seasons of road play-off wins, the expectations of this team are pretty high. No one's saying Superbowl or bust, but this is now a team that's expected to go deep into the post-season. This team will not be judged on just getting into the post-season, but now deep into the post-season.
The Baltimore Ravens have not had a home play-off game since the disappointing 15-6 loss to the Indianapolis Colts. Raven fans are hoping that the team's regular season productivity is good enough to bring them a play-off game at M&T Bank Stadium, and erase the bitter taste of that game as well.
There are very lofty expectations for this football team. Those expectations extend to certain individuals as well, like Joe Flacco. The third year quarterback improved from year one to year two, but showed either weaknesses due to injury or was held back based on the game plan. Either way, Joe will have to show off his arm strength that was advertised and even demonstrated at times during his short pro career.
Face it, on paper the Baltimore Ravens are a very dangerous team. However, we know games aren't played on paper. We've seen lots of teams with high expectations and great talent fall down the stretch. This team if loaded with veterans that have "been there, done that," and that could be the key in December and beyond.
For now, it's training camp time. For now, it's about preparation, and it's up to John Harbaugh and company to have his team focused on the task at hand, and that's getting to through the regular season and to the post-season. It's only been two-years, but I think I'll put my money on Harbaugh and company.
Rob Long
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Troubled Storyline
 Have you ever had information come your way, only to allow it to get by you without really looking into it? Originally, you thought you had something, but you just allow it to roll off because you didn't want to read into anything.
Since OTA's, there have been several stories coming out of the Baltimore Ravens camp. Most of the stories initially mean nothing, but as we sit here on the day that rookies report to training camp, you have to examine everything that's come out of 1 Winning Drive.
First, Jared Gaither missed OTA's, and the initial report was that the coaches did not know why. Gaither, who had been training on his own in Miami, came to work and discovered he had been moved to the other side of the line. This after rumors of him being traded to the Buffalo Bills.
Later, we were told that a foot injury was the reason Gaither wasn't practicing, but why wouldn't the coaching staff know that from the beginning?
Next, Terrell Suggs talks about OTA's. "As far as the OTAs thing goes, a lot of guys get hurt. I don't think a lot of guys would like to take that risk. It's OTAs, we're not winning any games or any Super Bowls in OTAs, so I'd rather just stick to my training and be in top shape come training camp."
The only problem with what Suggs is suggesting is that he's the same guy who didn't show up for camp last year and it seemed to hurt him. He was also quoted in saying, "Some guys need to be under the supervision of the coaches and the strength coaches and working out with the team, but some guys just don't need that." A lot of people would disagree with that statement.
While we've been told that Le'Ron McClain's campaign to play running back is a joke, when you add all that's gone on in the off-season, it makes you wonder if it really is. Was it, "I'm only playing, unless you're willing to do it," or was it a guy who clearly believes he's a running back speaking out, only to realize what he said was not very wise?
Then, Joe Flacco publicly questions the signing of back-up quarterback, saying that the experience of Marc Bulger could help here and there. Flacco made it clear that it wasn't a personal attack on the veteran quarterback, but questions whether or not they'll be chemistry problems if the team would get rid of Troy Smith, John Beck, or even both.
The Flacco comments went away quickly because Ed Reed took us on nearly a week long ride with his comments in the media echoing Flacco about Bulger, and talking about his "minor" issues with the team concerning his contract and the way the team treated his recent hip injury.
Now, the team's medical staff had to rush to Austin, Texas to check on the reported head injury of Sergio Kindle that he suffered while at a private party on Thursday. The National Football Post reported that Kindle is expected to make a full recovery, but it just puts an exclamation point of a very eventful summer. By the way, Kindle still hasn't signed with the team yet.
Rob Long
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Just Play Two
 Ernie Banks coined the phrase, "Just Play Two." Mr. Banks was making referencing playing double-headers in baseball.
Recently, the NFL has discussed the possibility of playing two more regular-season games. Now, the League has four pre-season games and 16-regular season games. Fans have complained about paying full price for two game in which the stars only play a few plays, if at all...
Now, the League is discussing reducing the pre-season to only two games and moving the other two games to the regular-season. This is something that most fans welcome, especially since they're already paying full price for those games anyway.
The opposition, the players, take the position that if they are making $2 million for playing 16-games, they need to get pro-rated for two additional games. It hasn't been clear whether or not the League is planning to compensate the players for those two additional games.
In addition to the money, the players are currently being educated about concussions and the talk of expanding the season contradicts the Leagues efforts to focus on player's health. This will certainly be a sticking point in the ongoing labor talks.
Rob Long
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Pandora's Box
 The subject of should or shouldn't NCAA student-athletes get paid is very complexed. From the outside looking in, it's a "no-brainer." With more perspective, you'll see that it isn't as easy as you'd think to come to either conclusion.
If you are in the camp of student-athletes getting paid, here's something to think about. Who gets paid? The perception is, football and basketball players make the money, so they should get the money. That sounds great, especially since the television contracts are so public and we know that billions of dollars are made as a result of them.
This is what you don't know. That money isn't just split up for the NCAA Division I schools that you see every week on televisions. That money is to support all of the NCAA schools all over the country. It helps provide financial support to the Division II and III programs that aren't able to generate their own revenue.
You may not care about those kids, but it takes money, not as much, for them to participate in athletics too. They have national post season tournaments that provide opportunities of a lifetime as well.
What if you're at Johns Hopkins? You play lacrosse on the Division I level, but all of your other sports are Division III. In fact, lacrosse is your money maker. Who's the money maker at Towson, or should they not be considered because they aren't "big time" enough? The truth is, there are more examples of the Towson Universities of the world than the "big time" examples.
Does a football player at Maryland see the same money as a football player at Miami? They're in the same conference, but do they bring in the same revenue?
If you don't believe these kids need to get paid, why not? Billions of dollars are exchanged on the backs of these men and women. Who gets that money if not the students who generate it? Why are these kids not able to pay for dinner off campus when they've helped make millions for their institution? Again, it sounds like an easy decision to make, but it isn't.
Rob Long
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The PUPs
 As training camp begins, the health of certain players have become a huge issue. Some of those players may end up on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
Yesterday on baltimoresun.com, there was a rundown of some players who could land on that list. Among the players that the Sun listed, Brendon Ayanbadejo is the name that stands out to me.
Ayanbadejo is 33-years old, and his best contributions to the team is on special teams. He's played "some" at the linebacker position, but hasn't really done anything noteworthy there.
If Ayanbadejo begins training camp not able to participate in contact drills, which seems to be apparent, does he give someone else the opportunity to impress the coaching staff? Brendon is one of the favorites in the Ravens locker room, but this coaching staff has made calculated moves that lead you to believe that if it wins more games, they're going to do it. If someone steps up and does a great job at Ayanbadejo's position on special teams, would he ever get his job back?
It's obvious that John Harbaugh doesn't make moves based on popularity. Just ask Joe Flacco and Ed Reed what they think about the signing of Marc Bulger. At 33, Ayanbadejo could become a victim of youth if he's out any extended time in the pre-season. This team has several hungry, young players who would jump at an opportunity to make this roster on special teams.
An explanation of what the PUP rules are, courtesy of www.baltimoresun.com:
A player has to be placed on Active PUP before training camp begins. That means this player can't practice with the team but he can work out off to the side and attend meetings. A player on Active PUP counts against the 80-man roster limit and can be removed from this list at any time during the preseason. At the end of preseason, the team must decide whether to activate the player or put him on Reserve PUP. Players on Reserve PUP are are not eligible to play for the first six weeks of the season. Reserve PUP players do not count against the 53 man roster.
Rob Long
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Dissension In The Ranks
 For days now, the topic of discussion on the Rob Long Show has been Joe Flacco and his comments about the team signing Marc Bulger. We've heard from some that this is a non-topic and a waste of time talking about.
On Tuesday, Ed Reed added even more by saying that Troy Smith could lead this team to the Superbowl. Reed added, "just another guy that’s been in the league and been around" when asked about Marc Bulger.
Where do you go from here? Joe Flacco and Ed Reed have both made comments that lead you to believe Bulger isn't exactly welcomed in the Ravens' locker room. If these two could make these public comments, they have to represent the views of others. There's no way they are only speaking for themselves. These two players are too important and too popular with the masses.
If this is the consensus, the Ravens have a problem. In fact, maybe they have multiple problems. Problem number one is, they have signed a player who'll probably feel just a little uncomfortable in the locker room. There's no way Bulger hasn't heard what his new playmates have to say about him. Regardless of what he says, he has to distract him, knowing he's been brought in to upstage a back-up quarterback who's so popular.
Another problem they have is that players are going public to question the decisions of the front office and coaching staff. This team is considered a championship caliber team, but they resemble a team with little to no direction with such comments.
Ozzie and company went out to get a proven guy to provide stability in case of an emergency. The coaching staff evaluates what the team needs based on what they see, and the players are publicly questioning that. That's just another problem this could present moving forward.
Ed Reed isn't stupid. When commenting on Ken Hamlin, he acknowledged the veteran added depth to the team's secondary. Reed wasn't as positive when he spoke about Marc Bulger. He clearly doesn't have the same opinion about the two, so there's no need to misunderstand what he is saying here.
There were many who believed that the Joe Flacco comments meant nothing. Do you still believe that now? An All-Pro safety has made comments that are simular to what Flacco had to say. Now what? Do you just ignore this and hope it goes away in time for training camp, or does this coaching staff cut the ugly head off now?
This, is clearly, not a non-issue. This is probably a small issue with the potential of becoming something bigger.
Rob Long
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Reed Is Second In Line
 Ravens Pro Bowl safety Ed Reed in an interview on 105.7 today said Troy Smith would be more qualified to be Joe Flacco's top backup than the recently acquired Marc Bulger according to the Baltimore Sun.
Bulger is “just another guy that’s been in the league and been around," Reed said, adding that recently acquired defensive back Ken Hamlin "adds depth to the secondary." With Smith moving further down the depth chart, there have been rumors about him going to another team. Meanwhile, this is the second Raven to question the acquisition of Bulger. Yesterday, Joe Flacco questioned what Bulger's acquisition would do to the quarterback's chemistry.
Story courtesy of Redzone.org
Rob Long
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Say Goodbye To Buck Showalter
 On Tuesday, I was doing what I'm always doing in the early evening, watching MLB Network. I saw the capture that read, "Chicago Cubs Press Conference" and Lou Pineilla was on my screen.
Now, the Chicago Cubs aren't really relevant to air their mid-day press conference, so there has to be some breaking news involving this team. With Lou Pineilla being on the screen, it has to be surrounding him.
Earlier, on the Rob Long Show, I was discussing the problems of the Chicago Cubs and how I believed that many of their issues were because of Pineilla. Whether they were issues because of what Pineilla did or did not do, they were because of the manager.
I know, many are going to come to the defense of Lou Pineilla and remind me of the things that he did, a long time ago. I can never take those things from him, and he was a great manager. However, that was long ago, and I thought he was done when he was in Tampa Bay.
This move may affect the Baltimore Orioles and their search for a manager. With Pineilla leaving an opening with one of the more celebrated franchises in Major League Baseball, and that team being in a division where winning is more obtainable, this could leave the Orioles on the outside looking in.
Buck Showalter has been regarded as the frontrunner for the O's managerial opening. But with Andy MacPhail "dragging his feet" in this process, the club has allowed for competition in the pursuit of Showalter.
Now, in typical Baltimore Orioles' fashion, they have put themselves in position where they'd have to settle on second or third best, instead of getting the best man available. Don't be surprised if Showalter is wearing Cubs pinstripes in 2011.
Rob Long
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Getting Defensive
 Yesterday, on the Rob Long Show, Baltimore Ravens fans got a little defensive over a story reported on baltimoresun.com. Joe Flacco expressed his concern over the chemistry "in the room" with the quarterbacks because of the addition of Marc Bulger.
There's no doubt, this is shaping up to be a very special season for the team and its fans. With the baseball team being so bad, sports fans in Baltimore feel that the Ravens are all they have. When something negative is reported, fans get defensive, wanting to protect the image and psyche of the team.
The test that I always conduct with matters such as this is, "What would your response be if it were another team?" For instance, let's say Marc Bulger were added to the Pittsburgh Steelers as a back-up in place of Dennis Dixon and Byron Leftwich. As a result of that, Ben Roethlisberger went public about not wanting either guy to lose their jobs as back-ups to a quarterback who was clearly a better option in case of an emergency. I believe our stance in Baltimore would be more than, "This is a non-story."
The whole "non-story" stance is wishful thinking. Fans are hoping this is a non-story for a player who usually has nothing to say. Fans are hoping that the starting quarterback isn't lobbying for inferior players to be on the roster of a team that's desperate to win a Superbowl. Fans are hoping that their guy isn't more concerned with comfort than productivity.
Get defensive all you want, the truth will come to light. While the coaching staff might be comfortable with having Flacco as their starter and Bulger as the back-up, Joe might not, and is voicing that he doesn't feel the same warm fuzzies about the situation. Let's just hope they all get along.
Rob Long
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NCAA Looking At Florida Gators
 Sources indicate that Florida and NCAA officials are ivestigating a potential rules violation that allegedly occured last December involving former Gators football player Maurkice Pouncey.
According to espn.com, Florida is internally investigating what sources described as an allegation that a representative of an agent paid Pouncey $100,000 between the Gators' loss to Alabama in the Southeastern Conference championship game to Alabama and their season-ending Sugar Bowl victory over Cincinatti. Florida apprised the NCAA of the allegation after it became aware of it.
"We were made aware of some information in early June that we reported to law enforcement and we then shared with the NCAA and the SEC," athletic director Jeremy Foley said in a statement released Monday morning to ESPN.com. "At this time we have no information that has indicated that there are any compliance issues for the University of Florida."
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No Welcome Mat For Bulger
 Jamison Hensley of the Baltimore Sun and baltimoresun.com reported Monday morning that Joe Flacco was concerned about the addition of back-up quarterback Marc Bulger and what it could do to chemistry.
In a direct quote taken from the website, "Hopefully, we just all get along well," Flacco said over the weekend. "When you have a little bit of tension in the room, it doesn’t lend to playing well. Yeah, he might bring a thing here or there that helps me out. We'll see. It's all about going out there, preparing during the week and having a good time doing that. Hopefully, we can do that."
Flacco's concern is that either Troy Smith, John Beck or both could be cut as a result of the Bulger signing. While the website indicates Flacco's concern was for his teammates and how this situatation could affect them, number 5 did not want to sound critical of Bulger.
"I don't want to have any bad words about Marc," Flacco said. "I'm sure Marc is a great guy. But I had a great relationship with Troy and John. Depending on what happens, one of them might not be around and two of them might not be around. We'll see what happens."
Go to www.baltimoresun.com/sports to read the entire report and to follow any updates to the report that Hensley might have later.
Rob Long
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Unemployed
 Terrell Owens is still looking for a job. The 36-year old receiver, who's only had two season under 1,000 yards in receiving the entire decade, is selling himself at different venues. His agent, Drew Rosenhaus, has been on national shows trying to convince everyone that T.O. is still in shape and ready to go.
No one questions whether or not Owens is in shape. The problem with T.O. is he's no longer special, he's just very good. Most general managers wouldn't tell you this, but it's much easier to deal with a player like Owens when he's special. When he's special you can ignore the "extra" stuff he does a little longer. When he's special, he has the ability to make you better. When he's just good, his antics can bring you down. Just ask the Dallas Cowboys.
T.O.'s 55 receptions, 829 yards and 15.1 yards per reception would suggest that he still has something left in the tank. His 99-yard touchdown reception in '09, most of it being after the catch, would suggest that he's still able to get behind defenders. This would be a no-brainer in most cases for a veteran receiver.
The problem is, T.O. giveth, and T.O. taketh away. For everything this man gives you, which now is slightly above average, he has the ability to take away. T.O. will land a job only is someone becomes desperate.
Rob Long
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First Round Mistakes
 We talked about it on the Rob Long Show Thursday. First round picks that each franchise swung and missed on. In fact, I believe that these picks wouldn't have gotten picked by their franchises at all, if they could do it all over. Here they are:
Arizona Cardinals - DT Wendell Bryant (12) - 2002 - Wisconsin Atlanta Falcons - RB T.J. Duckett (18) - 2002 - Michigan State Baltimore Ravens - QB Kyle Boller (19) - 2003 – Cal Buffalo Bills - DE Erik Flowers (26) - 2000 - Arizona State Carolina Panthers - DB Rashard Anderson (23) – 2000 – Jackson State Chicago Bears - WR David Terrell (8) - 2001 - Michigan Cincinnati Bengals – WR Peter Warrick (4) - 2000 - Florida State Cleveland Browns - RB William Green (16) - 2002 - Boston College Dallas Cowboys - S Roy William (8) - 2002 – Oklahoma Denver Broncos - DB Willie Middlebrooks (24) – 2001 – Minnesota Detroit Lions - WR Mike Williams (10) - 2005 - USC Green Bay Packers - DE Jamal Reynolds (10) - 2001 - Florida State Houston Texans - QB David Carr (1) - 2001 - Fresno State Indianapolis Colts - LB Rob Morris (28) - 2000 - BYU Jacksonville Jaguars - WR R. Jay Soward (29) - 2000 - USC Kansas City Chiefs - WR Sylvester Morris (21) - 2000 - Jackson State Miami Dolphins - DB Jamar Fletcher (26) 2001 - Wisconsin Minnesota Vikings – DE Erasmus James (18) 2005 - Wisconsin New England Patriots – RB Laurence Maroney (21) 2006 - Minnesota New Orleans Saints - DT Johnathan Sullivan (6) 2003 - Georgia New York Giants - RB Ron Dayne (11) 2000 - Wisconsin New York Jets - DE Vernon Gholston (6) 2008 - Ohio State Oakland Raiders - QB JaMarcus Russell (1) 2007 - LSU Philadelphia Eagles – WR Freddie Mitchell (25) 2001 - UCLA Pittsburgh Steelers - RB Rashard Mendenhall (23) 2008 - Illinois San Diego Chargers - DB Sammy Davis (30) 2003 - Texas A&M San Francisco 49ers - WR Rashaun Woods (31) 2004 - Oklahoma State Seattle Seahawks - DT Marcus Tubbs (23) 2004 - Texas St. Louis Rams - RB Trung Candidate (31) 2000 - Arizona Tampa Bay Bucs - RB Cadillac Williams (5) 2005 - Auburn Tennessee Titans - CB Pacman Jones ( 6) 2005 - West Virginia Washington Redskins – QB Patrick Ramsey (32) 2002 - Tulane
Rob Long
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NFL Draft Do-Overs
 Today, on the Rob Long Show, we'll talk NFL Draft Do-Overs. To define what this is all about, we're examining one first-round draft pick of each team in the League in the past 10-years. We believe that each team has someone they've drafted that if they could do it all over again, they wouldn't do it again.
Not only do we believe the team would not draft this player in the first-round, we don't believe they would draft this player at all. Maybe some other team in the League would draft this player, but because of this player being either useless to the team that drafted him, or just a huge pain, the team that drafted him would not have touched him if they drafted in hindsight.
Rob Long
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Second Half Wish List
 Ahh, the 81st All-Star Game is behind us, and it couldn't happen soon enough. I must admit, I use to be a big fan of the Mid-Summer Classic. Now, I can't wait for play to resume and for MLB to get on with to the business at hand.
The first thing in Baltimore is for the Orioles to hire their next manager. I am a huge fan of Juan Samuel, but he's not the right man for the job. The O's need a man who's had some experience managing a Major League baseball team and who can command the respect of both the front office as well as the clubhouse. Samuel may have earned a lot of respect in his time with the club, but not the level of respect that's needed to do this job.
Rumors have suggested that Buck Showalter is the next manager for this team and that it could happen as soon as this week. Ken Rosenthal, whom I have the utmost faith for, has mentioned that Showalter could be in uniform sometime this weekend or early next week. It doesn't matter when the O's do it, they just need to make sure this man brings in his own people when he is selected as the manager. No more picking the manager's coaches in this organization. That's setting these guys up for failure from the beginning.
The next move after hiring the manager is to trade some of the veterans who aren't in the plans for the future. The first should be All-Star Ty Wiggington. Congratulations Mr. Wiggington, you've been traded. I'm not sure what you'd get for him, but anything would be good for Ty Wiggington. Not that he's a bad guy, because he's the exact opposite, it's just there's nothing you can do with him and no reason to keep him.
Next, see you later Kevin Millwood. We thought the team would be more competitive and he would have a role on this team, but it did not work out that way. Therefore, the team needs to send him to a team where he's not wasting himself away. He could be a back-end starter on a more competitive team. He deserves that at this point. A man like Millwood doesn't want to be part of this, nor should he be expected to want to be part of this. Get what you can get, and part ways.
Finally, bring the young players such as Josh Bell and Michael Aubrey up and let them play. Bell did not embarrass himself when he came up this summer and Aubrey is as good as anyone else who's played first base for this team this year. Let them play and evaluate what you have for next year. Let's eliminate some question marks before spring training next season.
I didn't ask for wins because I know you can't squeeze blood from a turnip. If this team doesn't have wins in them, you can't get wins from them. Start preparing to win in the "immediate" future. We've been hearing the word "future" for awhile, but that word has not real timeline or definition. Put the word "immediate" on it and suddenly there's a sense of urgency.
Rob Long
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George Steinbrenner Dies At Age 80
 WABC-TV is reporting that George Steinbrenner is hospitalized in very serious condition with a massive heart attack. We'll continue to follow this story as reported.
Bay News 9 in Tampa is reporting emergency services responded to Steinbrenner's home and someone was transported to an area hospital. Several sources have confirmed the patient was Steinbrenner. Mr. Steinbrenner recently celebrated his 80th birthday.
Later Tuesday morning, reports confirmed that George Steinbrenner died. He purchased the New York Yankees in January, 1973 for $8.7 million. He was a modern day baseball pioneer.
Rob Long
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A Lot To Prove?
 I've heard it from so many sources, and now I'm starting to get it. Yesterday, on the network that I trust most when it comes to the NFL (NFL Network), Solomon Wilcots and Rod Woodson both agreed that Joe Flacco has a lot to prove this season.
Now, I've had Wilcots on the show in the past, and he's had nothing but great things to say about Flacco and was far from insulting on the program yesterday, but the "lot to prove" statement about Flacco came up.
You can take that in many ways. One way is to instantly jump to the conclusion that both men do not believe Flacco's proven anything in his first two years of his NFL career. That would be ridiculous and I'm not sure either of these men really believe that.
The Baltimore Ravens are a team that's pocessed lots of talent in past years and haven't had nearly the post-season success that they've experienced the past two seasons. Outside of the Superbowl season in 2000 and the following season's play-off victory in Miami, this Ravens team had been somewhat disappointing in the play-offs. Flacco's team already has three play-off wins.
Another way to look at the comments of the former defensive backs is that Flacco has so many weapons around him now, and with improvements the first two seasons, Flacco should have his first 4,000-yard season of his career. In fact, Wilcots went as far as to say that Flacco would do exactly that.
I've said it before and I'll continue to say, Joe Flacco is one of the top third quarterbacks in the NFL. That simply means he's one of the top 10 quarterbacks. While he might only be top 10 now, he has the potential to be top five. Yes, I think he's the best of his contemporaries such as Matt Ryan, Chad Henne and Kevin Kolb, who was drafted a year ahead of them.
Flacco's stats struggled down the stretch each year, but a lot of that had to do with what was around him. He made the most of what he had, and now, he doesn't have to do that. The least of the concerns of Baltimore Ravens' fans should be the play of Joe Flacco at quarterback.
This young man will make the mistakes that quarterbacks make, and for that, this city shouldn't go back into the "Three Headed Monster" talk. This is Flacco's team. In order to take that step, the quarterback has to take the team there. Name the top teams in the league, and it's the quarterback that leads them. That's today's NFL.
Does Flacco have a lot to prove? Yes. But he only has a lot to prove because the expectations for him are so high around the league. Ravens' fans, don't be offended when you hear that. You should be honored. When is the last time this city's had a quarterback with high career expectations?
Rob Long
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Line Of Defense
 I don't know what it is, but for some reason, we seem to defend our favorite athletes to the bitter end.
A few weeks ago, on the Saturday Morning Football Show with myself and Kristen Berset, we discussed the incident that took place in Virginia surrounding Michael Vick. I made a point that it seemed that Vick's camp had not been truthful about his whereabouts the night of the shooting. Usually, if you have nothing to hide, you hae no reason to lie.
That conversation started an hour long defense of Michael Vick on a 2-hour show. The only reason the defense wasn't longer was because we got into the conversation in the second hour of the show and we ran out of time.
What we now know is that Vick's traveling has been suspended, at this time. Vick is not allowed to leave the state of Pennsylvania, a decision made by his probation officer in wake of a shooting after his birthday party last month.
This is not to rehash the past, but it is about a topic that I've always scratched my head about. Why do we always defend athletes to the bitter end? We can have all of the evidence in front of us and we'll still deny all that we see?
I remember the trial of O.J. Simpson like it was yesterday. I remember the public comments that were made and how people defended him so much. It did not matter what evidence L.A.P.D. had stacked up, O.J. was innocent.
That seems to be the m.o. of fans. We ignore the victim and defend the offender. We'll discuss that Monday on the Rob Long Show.
Rob Long
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NFLPA Concerned About Blood Based Testing
 The NFLPA has expressed concern over the validity of the blood based testing that the League wants to use to detect HGH use.
Kevin Mawae, the president of the NFL Players Association, said the test, "is not completely reliable. One test is suppose to detect HGH for up to 14-days. But he said the union believes the test that is currently available, which has only about a 48-hour window of detection.
"The testing of HGH is a CBA issue that has been discussed on a number of different occasions," according to Mawae. "The PA and the players of the NFL will always be in favor of fair and competitive play without the use of performance-enhancing drugs."
"I don't necessarily subscribe to the view that the short detection window by itself renders the [current] test inadequate," Adolpho Birch, who oversees the NFL's drug policy, told The AP in an interview last week. "It does provide a deterrent effect. A longer window is helpful and will do a lot to provide better detection. I don't know if it's a game-changer, per se, but it is important." "In a perfect world, a urine test would be far easier for us to deal with and administer than a blood test," Birch said. "The problem is, we thought there was some chance a urine test could be developed. That's increasingly looking less likely. The practical reality is, we need to focus on a test that works, and the test that works is blood."
Rob Long
Information also provided by ESPN.com
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Overkill
 I woke up this morning with ESPN on my television because I went to sleep watching SportsCenter. It's usually not my practice to fall to sleep watching t.v., but I'm on vacation and what are you gonna do? Things happen and you get out of your normal mode of doing things.
Anyway, when I woke up, I was informed by the network that both Dwyane Wade ad Chris Bosh were going to the Miami Heat. I can't really say that I'm surprised by that, it's a good fit for those two to be together.
The next bit of news I heard was that LeBron James was going to have a one hour special on ESPN Thursday night at 9pm.
You've got to be kidding me, right? For one, why does it take an hour for James to tell the world where he's going to be playing next year? That's :30 of talking at the most. We don't really care why or anything of that nature, so let's get this thing going, please. What's the big deal? You want to go to a team for whatever reason you do and that's fine, but to hold the rest of the sports world hostage while you decide is criminal.
All morning I had to hear about the free-agents in the NBA and discuss where King James might end up next. It was interesting initially, but now I'm bored by it. I want him to decide just so we can be done with it. Wake me when it's over.
Rob Long
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The O's Worst All-Star Ever
 The Baltimore Orioles have one All-Star representative this year, again. From 1970 - 1997, the club had only one player selected for the mid-summer classic five times, a span of 28-seasons. In every case, that player went on to the Baseball Hall of Fame (Jim Palmer - 1975, Eddie Murray - 1982, and Cal Ripken - 1988, 1991, 95). It's happened eight times since 1998.
This year's selection, Ty Wiggington, is certainly not going to be a hall of famer. His hot start fooled a lot of people into believing that he could be a good replacement for Brian Roberts, but his 6-foot, 230 pound frame proved that the wear and tear on a middle infielder was too much for him.
As of today, Wiggington is batting .246 with 14 homers and 12 doubles. He is clearly the worst All-Star selection in this club's history.
Ty Wiggington is a journeyman player who has played for five teams in nine seasons. He's on pace to have the most at-bats he's ever had since his rookie season in 2003 with the New York Mets. The more at-bats he gets, the more he's exposed.
Wiggington batted .308 with six homeruns and 12 runs batted in during April. He followed that up with a very good power month in May with seven homers and 20 RBI, but he only hit .276 during that month. Reality started to catch up with him in June as he batted only .209 with one homerun and 10 runs batted in. As of July 3rd, he had 17 trips to the plate and produced one walk and one RBI.
Now, to add insult to injury, Ty Wiggington represents an organization that once sent Mike Cuellar, Dave Johnson, Dave McNally, Boog Powell, Brooks Robinson and Frank Robinson to the All-Star game in the same year (1970).
With all of that being said, maybe Ty Wiggington is the best player to represent this team. Wiggington says, "Our BEST isn't nearly good enough" loud and clearly. He tells all of the baseball world on the biggest stage of its showcase of talent, that Baltimore has no All-Star talent to showcase. Ty Wiggington embodies all that a once proud organizaton has become.
The selection of Wiggington also makes you wonder what New York Yankees manager, and All-Star manager, Joe Girardi thinks about the young talent on this team. Girardi knows this team being they play one another so much. Wigginton's selection makes you scratch your head as to what the skipper was thinking.
With such an anemic batting average for Wiggington, you can imagine he would have liked what he's seen in Adam Jones lately. Jones has improved his average from .223 in April, to .279 in May, to .320 in June. He's also doubled his RBI total each month as well.
Maybe it's Jones' .186 batting average versus Girardi's Yankees that left him unimpressed. Or was it his 13 strike outs in 11 games against the Bombers that left Adam off of the team? Either way, Adam Jones will not be making his second consecutive trip to the All-Star game.
With all of the embarrassment that Baltimore Orioles fans have had to endure this year, now they have a reason not to want to watch the All-Star game. None of us wants to see Ty Wiggington's number flash for the world to see. No one wants to hear the announcers struggle to find something good to say about that situation. It screams of more embarrassment.
A journeyman utility player turned All-Star. Yup, it's either a great rags to riches story, or a day in the life of an Orioles fan.
Rob Long
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The One Who Got Away
 The Arizona Diamondbacks fired manager A.J. Hinch and general manager Josh Byrnes on Thursday night and named bench coach Kirk Gibson the interim manager.
I don't know how long "interim" will apply for Gibson. He's been earning his stripes for years now as a MLB coach, and this could be his time. I've said for about three years now that Gibson's no nonsense approach could be a breath of fresh air for the Baltimore Orioles.
My eyes will be firmly planted on the situation in Arizona as I'm pulling for Gibson. I was a closet Kirk Gibson fan during his playing days, and I'm very much a fan of his as a manager.
Rob Long
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Key Number For The O's
 I know, I know... I've been preaching this for quite some time, but I'm a believer in it. The number to look out for is the number of pitches a batter sees. The Birds have had games where they've seen less than 130 pitches. On Wednesday, they scored nine runs and they saw 156 pitches. That's what good team do.
In comparison, the New York Yankees usually see about 150 pitches or more a game. On Wednesday they lost 7-0 to the Seattle Mariners. The Mariners saw 187 pitches to the Yankees 115. Chone Figgins saw 33 pitches himself and Russell Branyon, who batted behind him was 1 for 3 with a walk. If Figgins saw that many pitches, it benefits Branyon.
Cesar Izturis saw 24 pitches against the Oakland A's. When the batting order turns over, Corey Patterson is batting behind him. Patterson had three hits. Consequently, in the cases of both Baltimore and Seattle, they were able to chase the opposing pitchers out with well over 100 pitches after only six innings. The key is, you cannot be afraid to hit with two strikes, and the O's have shown tremendous improvement in the department over the past two weeks.
Rob Long
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Out Of Chances
 Michael Vick's people gave a different account as to the NFL quarterback's whereabouts when a shooting took place at a restaurant in Virginia Beach.
Friends and family threw Vick a birthday party last week, and it ended in violence when Quanis Phillips was shot. An eyewitness said Phillips tapped or slapped the hand of Vick's fiancee, Kijafi Frink, as she fed Vick cake. He said little cake touched Vick's face, but words were exchanged. Unnamed witnesses gave the New York Post a similar account.
Police were told Vick did not attend the party at Guadalajara initially, and then the word got out that Vick left well before the shooting. Allen Fabijan, the restaurant's spokesman, said two cars carrying Vick, an Eagles quarterback from Newport News, and his entourage left at 2:07 a.m. Three minutes later, shots rang out from the direction the cars had gone, Fabijan said.
Vick's attorney, Lawrence Woodward, told the Virginian-Pilot newspaper Monday that Phillips had been ejected from the party prior to the shooting. Vick's probation clearly states that we was not to associate with Phillips, who was convicted of similar crimes as Vick's 2007 dog fighting sentence.
Rob Long
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Zach Britton Promoted
 On the same day he's named the Eastern League pitcher of the week, Zach Britton was promoted to triple A Norfolk.
Britton, who's made several appearances on the Rob Long Show, was 7-3 with a sub three earn run average. He's believed to be one-fifth of the future rotation for the Baltimore Orioles. With the other four parts of that rotation having already made their Major League Baseball debuts, all eyes are now on Britton.
First there was Brad Bergesen in 2009 along with Chris Tillman. They've had their ups and downs, but that's what growing up in MLB as a pitcher is all about.
Then, in 2010, Brian Matusz made the trip out of spring training, only to be joined by Jake Arrieta. Matusz had extremely high hopes, and has shown toughness, but he's struggled at times. Arrieta's era isn't impressive, but again, he's shown some potential to be exactly what the experts were telling the Oriole fanbase.
Now, with Britton's promotion to Norfolk, the Orioles are one step closer to the final piece of what they believe is their answer to having a solid rotation. In the midst of so much losing, it's easy to lose track of the future. We mentioned a future rotation and we haven't even talked about guys like David Hernandez and Jason Berken, who will probably end up in the bullpen long term, if not permanently. Troy Patton, once touted as a rotation guy, may not have a chance if these guys continue to grow. Patton may be another guy who'll end up either in the bullpen, or tradebait.
Rob Long
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The Numbers Game
 Monday on the Rob Long Show, Rob Dibble of MASN and Fox Sports, was on the show talking all things baseball. As usual, Rob was very candid. He's been that way since his Major League career.
During my conversation with Dibble, he mentioned that there was someone in the Baltimore Orioles rotation, who wasn't a great pitcher and may never be a great pitcher, this didn't take kindly to advise.
Apparently, the pitcher told Jim Palmer that he's looked at Palmer's stats and they weren't that impressive when approached by the Hall of Famer. Palmer being Palmer, was trying to engage in baseball conversation that involved what has made Jim part of baseball immortality, pitching.
Some of you are looking at this and thinking, "What stat could this young man have looked at and not been impressed with?" That is the natural response. Palmer has had bad seasons that are better than some of the good seasons of pitchers in the O's rotation.
While that's a fact, it's beside the point. The point is, Palmer's in Cooperstown. That alone suggests his resume is among the best pitchers of all-time. Why would you need stats to validate his career? Again, he's in Cooperstown.
So, Rafael Palmeiro has 569 homeruns and 3020 hits. He is one of only four men to have accomplished over 500 homers and 3000 hits. Statistics suggest that he's as good as Eddie Murray, Hank Aaron and Willie Mays. If you watched all four of those players, you'd say stats have fooled a generation of people. I only watched Murray and Palmeiro and there is no comparison. Murray is heads and shoulders above Raffy and only one will probably ever be in Cooperstown and Eddie's already there.
Ozzie Smith is a Hall of Famer. He's a career .262 hitter with 28 career homeruns and 2460 hits. None of those numbers represent the career milestones MLB players look to for automatice induction into "The Hall." If you saw Ozzie, you don't question whether or not he belongs among baseball's elite. Once again, the numbers can fool you.
You don't question a player's career who's in the Hall of Fame. Whether or not it's unanimous, and it's never been that way in baseball, that player has had an impressive career. I never saw Luis Aparicio play. He's a .262 career hitter and the most homeruns he's ever hit in a season was 10. All I know is the Baseball Writer's Association of America decided in 1984 that he was a Hall of Famer so he's a Hall of Famer.
Numbers, and the presence of them, have changed the game. Players are often judged only by their numbers. We don't watch the game, we watch the boxscores and that's a shame. There's more to a player's resume than his stats.
Now, to defend the ridiculous. Jim Palmer won 20 or more games eight times in his career, 15 or more 12 times. While today's standards for excellence is 200 innings, Palmer surpassed 300 innings four times and 250 innings eight seperate times. His 2.86 era would be impressive for a season, not just a career. His career whip was 1.180.
Impressive? Jim Palmer is the definition of the word. He's led the league in positive statistical categories 20-times during his big league career and has never led the league in stats such as losses, walks, homeruns allowed, hits allowed, hit batsmen, balks, wild pitches, hits per nine innings, walks per nine innings, etc. Get the picture?
In fact, Jim Palmer never gave up more hits than innings pitched before the age of 34 and he did it again at ages 37 and 38. By then, he had accomplished more than almost any other pitcher in the history of the game.
So, whatever idiot made that comment, he needs to make sure he was looking at Jim Palmer and not Matt Palmer. He pitched three seasons and I would agree, not that impressive.
Rob Long
To hear the Rob Dibble interview, click on "Phil Backert" on this site and go to "Monday Show In Review."
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Follow The Leader
Here in Baltimore, we'd like to think that the Orioles have a new leader after the week that Nick Markakis had. First he called his team out in the Baltimore Sun and then he meets with owner Peter Angelos to put an exclamation point on his public comments.
Lost in all of that here in the Charm City, the Philadelphia Phillies saw the return of their leader, Jimmy Rollins, on Tuesday. Rollins hits a walk-off homerun in his second game and suddenly the Phillies look like a team on a mission. They've been scoring runs by the bunches and have gone 5-1 since his return.
 With all of the bashers in that line-up, it just doesn't seem like a 5'8" shortstop would make that much of a difference, but he has. True leadership has its place in sports.
On Sunday, B.J. Upton of the Tampa Bay Rays dogs it in centerfield on an extra-base hit in the gap against the Arizona Diamondbacks. After that inning, Evan Longoria approaches him in the dugout. Upton, who's played in at least parts of six seasons in the Majors, didn't take being chastised very well.
Maybe Longoria was looking at the fact that the Rays have lost seven of their last 10 and have fallen to third place in the American League East behind New York and Boston. Maybe he has a sense of urgency that you have to have while in a pennant race.
Whatever the case may be, the Rays are still a young team, and the one question mark with them is leadership. Longoria may have "taken" that position on Sunday.
 It's been said that leaders aren't appointed, they take their positon. No one in Baltimore said, "Hey, Nick Markakis is the leader of the Orioles." I'm sure Jimmy Rollins wasn't annointed by upper-management as "the guy" with Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and a cast of veterans that the Phillies have on their roster. There was something done that told everyone around them that they were going to be the spokemen for their franchises. Often, as in the cases of these three, those words are, enough is enough.
Rob Long
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The Markakis Effect?
 10 days ago, Adam Jones was batting .255 with nine homeruns and 24 runs batted in. Then something happened. Not just the results, but his approach. Jones stopped doing the things that was destroying his season, and started doing the things that made him an All-Star and a Gold Glove winner in 2009.
Maybe there's more to this than meets the eye. Adam Jones' turnaround is almost parellel with the comments that were made by Orioles right fielder Nick Markakis. The word clueless came from Markakis' comments and at times Jones seemed clueless. You could take what Markakis was saying and, at times, see Jones' game to be an exact description.
I'm not saying that Markakis was throwing darts at Jones, by any means. Maybe Jones listened to what his teammate had to say, and took it to heart. That's what winners do. Since that time, Jones has helped carry the Orioles to their first four-game winning streak of the 2010 season.
Over the past ten games, Jones is hitting .341 with three homeruns and nine runs batted in. More important than the numbers, or maybe the numbers are a direct result, but he has shown patience at the plate. He's appeared to have a purpose at the plate, and hasn't looked clueless. He's stayed away from the low and away fastball that once baffled Jones and made him a .240 hitter.
Now, he's a .271 hitter with 12 homeruns. He still needs to work on his on base percentage that is under .300, but there is progress in his game. He's back on pace to his around 25 long balls and drive in just less than 80 runs.
Call it the Markakis effect if you want, but right now, it looks as if Adam Jones has taken the challenge from the other half of his 2110 Eutaw Street tandem and turned his season around.
Rob Long
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O's Designate Atkins For Assignment
 The Baltimore Orioles signed Garrett Atkins to potentially be the power hitting corner infielder that they needed to hold down the fort until the young kids get ready. When the O's originally signed Atkins, it was thought that he would play third.
When the team signed Miguel Tejada, Atkins was given the job at first and expected to provide some pop there and at designated hitter when called upon. Even with Atkins' diminishing power numbers, many thought he could at least have more than one homerun going into July. He could not and now the organization parts ways with a player who is the model of the disappointment that is the 2010 season.
The O's have limited options at the corner infield positions at this point. There are players in the organization who have better numbers than Atkins' .214 and nine runs batted in, but they still aren't good.
Brandon Snyder's batting .255 with five homers, but has been hot lately with a .382 average over his last 10 games. He has struck out 10 times with only two walks over the same time. That's the story of his season. Snyder has 58 strike outs and only 16 walks in 216 at-bats. That doesn't translate to success at the Major League level.
Josh Bell, a third baseman, also at Norfolk along with Snyder, is batting .263 with eight homeruns in 270 at-bats. Bell does have 23 doubles, but like Snyder his strike out to walk ratio is not good. He's struck out 69 times and has 17 walks. Again, doesn't spell Major League success at this point.
Brandon Waring, another corner infielder in the minors, is also struggling, but in Bowie. Waring is hitting .235 but does have 12 homeruns and 37 rbi.
So, the O's did the right thing by getting rid of Garrett Atkins, but unfortunately, they have no other options. They will continue to shuffle players around, hoping someone will get hot and produce.
Rob Long
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Yow To North Carolina State
 During the NBA Draft, reports that Debbie Yow was leaving the University of Maryland to take the Athletic Director's position at North Carolina State University had begun to circulate. Yow is a North Carolina native and a graduate of Elon University in North Carolina, and seems like a good fit.
Yow's battles with basketball coach Gary Williams became public knowledge over the years, with the majority of the Terp fanbase taking Williams' side throughout those battles.
Debbie Yow became Maryland's A.D. in 1994, making her the first female to take that post in the history of the ACC. During her 16-year tenure at Maryland, Debbie Yow aided in the expansion of the university's athletic department to 27 teams and was involved in the construction of the Comcast Center in 2002.
NC State's former athletic director, Lee Fowler, resigned last month and will be leaving on June 30. State began its search for his successor on May 4, forming a search committee and hiring a search firm.
No one knows exactly when Yow will take over at NCSU. According to WTVD.com in Raleigh-Durham, Yow addressed that by text with a message that read, "I am visiting down there tomorrow. That is all I can say now. Gave my word."
Rob Long
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A Home For Greivis...
 He went to the University of Maryland as Kevin Durant's high school teammate. During his four years, he established himself as one of the greatest players who ever put on a Terp basketball uniform. On Thursday, June 24, 2010, all of the dreams of Greivis Vasquez came true as NBA Commissioner David Stern called his name as the 28th pick in the draft.
What will Vasquez do with the Memphis Grizzlies this year? Will he even be a Grizzlie when the season begins, or play for someone else? How much success will he have in the NBA? I don't know the answer to any of those questions, but it doesn't matter right now. For now, all that matters is that the kid from Caracas, Venezuela got it done. He's in the NBA now.
People are going to try to predict what this kid will do. Reports of his demise will be written before he even plays a game. His role will be defined by fans because of the cast that's around him. I you can say it, it will be written about Greivis Vasquez, but rest assure, he's use to that.
Vasquez will go to his NBA destination and make the absolute most of whatever opportunity he's given. That's the only way he knows how to do it.
Rob Long
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Where Is Matt Wieters?
 On May 29, 2009 Baltimore Orioles fans celebrated the arrival of a man who they thought would usher in a whole new era. Matt Wieters had it all. He was suppose to be the face, the bat at the middle of the order as well as provide stability for a young pitching staff that he was going to grow up with.
Wieters goes into Thursday's game batting .226. That's a far cry from the .288 average he finished the 2009 season with. His average, along with the nine homeruns, 15 doubles and 43 runs driven in had O's faithful optimistic about the future.
Matt Wieters was an absolute beast in college for Georgia Tech. He followed that up with a .343 batting average in the minors with 693 plate appearances. He showed flashes of being just what the doctor ordered with his 32 homers and 121 runs batted in during that same time.
Now, Wieters looks dazed and confused as he tries to juggle between handling a subpar pitching staff and figure out where he belongs in a line-up that has little to no support for a young power hitter. Guys like Luke Scott and Ty Wiggington are trying to find themselves, they aren't in position to help Wieters through his own troubles. There are no veterans around to guide him along the way with every meaningless at-bat.
Matt Wieters, like Adam Jones, is in a bad place right now. He has to find himself by himself. He has to, seemingly, figure out things on his own. Does he need to go back to the minors to make it happen? Does he need to sit for a few days to watch? Whatever the case maybe, Matt Wieters has to do something different in order to have the start to a career we all expected.
Rob Long
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The Troy Smith Love Affair
 One of the relationships that is so difficult for me to understand in the Baltimore sports community is the relationship between Troy Smith and Ravens fans.
I know, the most popular person on a football team is the back-up quarterback. That usually happens because of one or two situations. Either the starter isn't getting the job done, or the back-up has put together at least one brilliant performance while replacing the starter for some reason.
Neither of those situations has occured with Smith. Joe Flacco has won three road play-off games in his first two-seasons, and Smith hasn't put together anything that resembles brilliant. Yet, the fanbase constantly calls for Troy to, "Get a fair shot" at being this team's quarterback.
Now, that the team has signed veteran Marc Bulger, many are asking why the Ravens would give him so much money when they have Smith. My response, they gave Bulger so much money because they only have Smith. It was a lay-up. When you have a guy like Marc Bulger sitting out there, you grab him. When salary cap is not an issue, you sign him.
I'm struggling to remember a play when Troy Smith led me to believe that my football team could win with him. I'm going all the way back to his college days. I can't find that moment. Not pre-season, not regular-season, not practice, or anytime. Joe Flacco and Marc Bulger as the back-up equals Baltimore Ravens' success.
Rob Long
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Reaction To The Bulger Signing
Teams that consider themselves championship caliber teams, make the necessary moves that need to be made to assure their chances of winning that championship. Those teams do not consider money, opinions, or anything else that may conflict with bringing in players who help get them to get where they think they can be.
Championship teams have a strong back-up quarterback. That back-up may not be a guy who will start for half of the teams in the NFL. That's often a barometer fans use. "This guy couldn't start for half of the teams in the League." It's not about who that player can start for. The move for a back-up quarterback is about having a starter that a team feels they can win with, and wanting an insurance policy. On Wednesday, the Baltimore Ravens bought themselves an insurance policy when they signed Marc Bulger to a one-year contract. Instantly, some of the reaction to signing Bulger was, the Ravens paid too much money. $3.8 million is too much to pay for an aging quarterback who's been injured a lot himself, if he were your starter. Again, when trying to win a championship, you pay a premium, even if you just need that guy for peace of mind. If he plays three games, and those three games help you get to where you want to be, he was worth every penny of that money. If you don't need him because your starting quarterback starts all 16-regular season game, and the post-season, that back-up was worth every penny of your money.
Marc Bulger is better than Troy Smith. I don't know any other way to say it. This city has a love affair with Smith that is difficult to understand. I'm not in love with Smith, so I really don't get it. I saw Troy Smith in college, so I never thought he was the athlete that many say he is. I've even heard a fan say that maybe Smith can stay on the team and help out with special teams. What part of his past suggests that he can do that? Please bring me up to date on Troy Smith.
I haven't had any conversations with the coaching staff, but the notion that Bulger is here to "compete" with Flacco for the starting job doesn't make sense. I've tried to explain this, but let me put it in writing. Joe Flacco passed for 2,971 yards in his rookie year. He passed for 3,616 yards in his second year. He completed 60% of his passes in his rookie year. He completed 63% in his second year. Flacco threw 14 touchdowns in his rookie year and 21 in his second.
While Flacco's interception numbers stayed at 12 in both seasons, the difference is his attempts went from 428 to 499. The quarterback rating changed from 80.3 to 88.9. For a guy who was accused to "dink and dunk," his yards per attempt improved from 6.9 to 7.2. In comparison, Peyton Manning is the best quarterback in the NFL, and his was 7.9 last year, 7.2 two years ago, and hasn't been higher than 7.9 since 2005. Who are you comparing Joe Flacco to if you aren't someone who believes he's the future?
This is a good move. In the past, Ravens fans would concern themselves with the back-up running back. It takes more than a dominant running game to win "It All," and the Ravens realize that. Every move they've made in the off-season has suggested that.
Rob Long
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World Cup Excitement
 So, I'm doing my interviews on the Rob Long Show, while watching the World Cup game between the United States and Algeria. Just as I'm hitting the mute button so my listeners cannot hear me screaming and using language that cannot be used on radio, our boys make a play.
Now, I have to admit, I'm not a soccer expert. I'm not a guy who can roll names off of my tongue. I'm just getting into the excitement of what the World Cup can bring, and I have to admit, I feel I've deprived myself of at least a half dozen of these tournaments.
Where have I been? Why am I just learning of this? Is it the coverage that ESPN has been providing? Is it media access in general? Whatever it is, I'm digging the World Cup.
No, I'm not going to watch Fox Soccer channel on a regular basis. No, I'm not going to watch the Futbol Network every Saturday. I'm just feeling the event that happens once every four-years, and the Blast. Oh, I'm not a Crystal Palace Baltimore fan as well.
Wow, what am I saying? Am I becoming, somewhat, a soccer fan? I'm enjoying this sport way too much. I almost feel as if I should be embarrassed to admit this, but I'm not.
Okay, I don't like the theatrics. Whenever someone touches one of these guys, they fall out as if they will never walk again. They get carried out on a stretcher, and then they walk off. This is too much for a country that loves American football. The NFL and NCAA provides hard hitting action where men get up and walk it off without missing a play.
However, soccer provides athletism that I can respect and admire. These guys run for 45-minutes at a time. How many of you can get on a treadmill and run for five-minutes without needing oxygen?
Today, while in a 0-0 tie, in stoppage time, Landon Donovan delivered us the goal that gave a country hope. USA goes to round-two and wins their group for the first time since 1930. The timing is perfect for a country that's really buying into soccer. It was important for this team to advance. Now, we have a reason to continue to watch.
Rob Long
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Playing Flag...
 Carolina Panthers wide receiver Steve Smith injured himself playing a game of flag football at a local YMCA on Sunday.
What's the big deal, right? A typical Sunday afternoon activity in Charlotte. Recreational sports are big in that area this time of the year. Smith was just hanging out, joining in on the fun with everyone else.
Isn't this what we ask for in our professional athletes? Don't we want them to be in the community, relating to the fanbase? The man was at a youth center playing a game of flag football. What professional athlete do you know who'll do that?
The problem with all of this is Steve Smith could be in trouble with the Carolina Panthers for violating certain terms of his contract. If Smith misses any regular-season games, he could be fined or punished in other ways.
In addition, he's facing great scrutiny from the same fans who ask for professional athletes to be more assessable to the public. Smith's being called "stupid" and "careless" by people who buy season tickets and fill the sports bars to watch him catch passes. One caller on a local sports talk show in Charlotte said, "The team pays this moron to catch passes on Sunday, just not this time of the year. He's three months ahead of schedule."
This is the catch-22 that many pro athletes face. They're damned if they do, and damned if they don't. If Steve Smith goes to the "Y" and just stands around like a superstar, he's "big timing" everyone. If he plays and risks the chance of getting injured, he's a "moron" who should know his role. You're almost in a no-win situation. What's the happy medium?
It's being reported that Smith will miss some of training camp, but shouldn't miss any of the regular-season. Let's hope not. I'm no Panther fan, but I'd hate to see a guy punished for interacting with the general public.
The violation comes because standard League contracts prohibit players from playing football outside of team settings.
Former Panthers quarterback Josh McCown told The Charlotte Observer he has played with Smith a few times in an adult flag football league at a Charlotte YMCA, but wasn't with him on Sunday. Smith clearly violated his contract, but what price do you pay for being one of the guys?
Rob Long
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Greivis Vasquez To The Knicks?
 I guess you aren't really appreciated until you're gone, and that's been the theme on the Rob Long Show and now roblongshow.com. Today, we discussed the state of the Baltimore Ravens without Ed Reed. Some are trying to push Reed aside already, comparing his fall to the physical fall of Shaq.
On a different note, Greivis Vasquez has never been appreciated by his home crowd at Maryland. As the four-year Terp and one of the top scorers in school history, it seems Vasquez is compared to a long line of Terps great who've won National Championships. I don't know how that could happen when there's only one man in that conversation who's won one. Vasquez is a top-five player in Maryland history and his numbers speak for themselves.
Now, it seems the New York Knicks are looking to move up into the first-round of the NBA Draft on Thursday, and Vasquez is one of the players they are eyeing.
The club is debating between Vasquez, Iowa State power forward Craig Backins and New Mexico small forward Darington Hobson. Last season, the Knicks traded into the first round and gave the Lakers $3 million for the rights to point guard Toney Douglas, according to the New York Daily News. There are reports also that the Chicago Bulls, who own the 17th pick, are looking to trade out of the first-round as well.
Rob Long
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MLB's Bailout Plan
 Okay, President Barack Obama has offered many multi-billion dollar companies Federal Bailout plans. While this move has not been received with all open arms, it does give me an idea about solving a problem in baseball that has changed the way baseball fans see the game.
Baseball records, like no other sport, are sacred. For instance, who were the top three leading scorers in the NBA when you were 12-years old? Who were the all-time leader passers in yards for the NFL during the same time?
Now, if I asked you that question for the all-time leading homerun hitter during that time you'd know it without blinking. For me, Aaron, Ruth and Mays. I know it like I knew how to solve math problems. I knew it like I knew how to read. It was in my childhood education. It was what I was suppose to know.
Today's MLB numbers are tainted, to say the least. Records are falling so quickly that it's laughable. Then again, the same things that make you laugh, make you cry.
In 1900, smart people realized that the game of baseball had changed, and that the game needed to establish a new era. It was the modern game of baseball. That was over 100-years ago. If something's 100-years old, can it be considered modern? Hey, look at my modern 1940 car. Hey, this home was built in 1920, it's modern. You can't say that, so you can't call the numbers that were established in 1930 part of the modern game of baseball. Too much has changed.
This is my bailout plan. Baseball needs to establish new records. There should be a new timeline for numbers. This puts today's numbers in it's proper perspective, while protecting the numbers of the greats of yesterday. A-Rod and Babe Ruth played for the same franchise, but he played a different game. So much has changed and it isn't fair to Ruth or Mickey Mantle that their records are being assaulted by players of today.
My proposal is 1999. That should be the year that MLB cuts off the old era. Give it a name. Call it "Baseball's Pioneer Era." A name like that pays homage to guys like Jackie Robinson who broke ground for African-Americans behind him who were allowed to play the game, which brings up another point.
The game is played by all and players really compete against the best. How can you look at numbers from the pre-color barrier era and compare them to pitchers who have to face line-ups that have no barrier? This establishes some respect for today's game as well.
Think about it. The game has changed, and it seems we're afraid to let go of the past. We'd rather complain about it than make the needed changes.
Rob Long
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Batista May Have Jumped The Gun
 As reported by Anne Boone on roblongshow.com, former WWE Champion Dave Batista will reportedly take his fight to another level. Batista, who's rumored to have beaten up multiple men at once in his days as a bouncer in D.C., has told TMZ that he will become a member of MMA's Strikeforce.
Contrary to Batista's reports, 5thRound.com says that may not be "exactly" true, yet. "The report is not correct," said Strikeforce director of communications Mike Afromowitz. Some are speculating that Batista could follow in the footsteps of The Rock and bold to Hollywood to try his hand at acting. Recently, Quentin "Rampage" Jackson has shown there is room for Hollywood and the world of MMA.
Either way, Batista's doing what he wants right now, and that's make headlines. Those antics makes him a hot product and that's good for the career of a WWE star who's trying to become part of pop culture.
Rob Long
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If Only It Were NASCAR
In all of the whacked out crazy talk about the Baltimore Orioles, and what would have to happen for this team to contend again, consider the grand ole sport(ish) of NASCAR.
Kevin Harvick has one win this year and he's in first place. Denny Hamlin has five wins this year and he's in third place. Yes, you read that right. The racer with five wins is behind a racer with only one win. To add to that, Matt Kenseth has no wins and he's in fifth place, while Jimmy Johnson made was first to see the checkered flag Sunday for the first time in 10 races and he's still in sixth place and will probably, once again, win the whole thing.
No, this really isn't about NASCAR, but about the Orioles. The O's led for nine innings this weekend in San Diego and came away with only one win. If it were NASCAR, that would count for something but it isn't, so it doesn't.
On Sunday, the O's got out to an early 4-0 lead after the first half inning, and couldn't hold on to it. That's the story of this miserable season. They find ways, regardless of how difficult it might be, to lose games. They either get no clutch hitting or no pitching, or in some instances, neither.
A question was asked on the Rob Long Show a few weeks ago. The question was, "Would the O's get 50-losses before they got 20-wins?" I answered yes, they would. Sunday was the moment of truth for that question. The team stood at 19-49 with a chance to prove me, and others, wrong. Such a small victory, but they couldn't do it. The Baltimore Orioles stand at 19-50, reaching a half century in the loss column 69-games into the season. UNBELIEVABLE.
The team says they will take their time to find a manager. They want a manager with some experience. Honestly, who would take this job, now? This situation doesn't look as if it can be fixed. As I stated two-weeks ago, there isn't a series remaining on the schedule in which you'd expect them to win. They come home to the Florida Marlins, Washington Nationals, and Oakland A's. They go to Boston, Detroit, and Texas before the All-Star break. That's 19-games if you're interested. The question now is, "Will they reach 65-losses before their 25th win?"
Rob Long
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How Will An 18-Game Schedule Effect The NFL?
 It appears that an 18-game schedule in the NFL is eminent. The owners seem to be clamoring and Roger Goodell seems to be heavily in favor of the idea.
More regular-season games equal fewer pre-season games. This means less time to evaluate for NFL coaches. Now, you'll only have one really good game to evaluate borderline talent. Coaches will, probably, only use one game to look at free-agents and late-round picks because they'll need to get their "regulars" more time.
How would an 18-game schedule have effected the Baltimore Ravens? Would we have ever known Adalius Thomas, Bart Scott or Dannell Ellerbe? These are guys who have made major contributions and either went late in the draft, or not drafted at all.
Tom Brady was a late draft pick. What kind of chance would he have had if there were only two pre-season games? There would have been less time to see what he could have done.
Derek Anderson made a huge splash in a pre-season game against the Washington Redskins. I don't believe Anderson would have been on the field at that time if there were only two pre-season games. That time would have been given to the two-deeps.
All of the talk is going to be geared toward the increased chance of injuries by adding two regular-season games, but the NFLPA should put the decreased chance of opportunities as their number two priority.
Rob Long
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Let It Just Stand Alone
 With the Los Angeles Lakers winning the NBA Championship, the talk will swing toward whether or not Kobe Bryant is either in the same conversation with Michael Jordan, or whether or not he's the greatest Laker of all-time?
Just as comparing Kobe to Jordan is a disgrace to Jordan, it's a disgrace to Kobe as well. He's not Jordan, or Magic Johnson, nor did he ever have to carry the torch that those guys had to carry. Those players helped lay down a foundation that makes it possible for Kobe to have to audience that he enjoys. Don't compare Kobe Bryant to the guys he grew up watching and idolizing. It's unfair to everyone.
Kobe Bryant doesn't have his own symbol like "Jump Man." He doesn't have an era named after him in L.A. like Magic had "Showtime." There's not comparison.
That's like saying, "Rob Long's pretty good, but he's no Stan The Fan." I grew up listening to that guy, and that's extremely uncomfortable. Compare Kobe to his peers, and to that, there is no comparison.
When you look at Kobe Bryant, let Kobe's work stand alone. Who was Magic compared to? Who was Jordan compared to? We just watched them do what they did and enjoyed it. We didn't say, "That Michael Jordan's great, but he's no Dr. J. Magic Johnson's a great point guard, but he didn't win as many as Bob Cousy."
Like him or not, he's the best in the NBA, and he keeps proving it, while everyone wants to hand the keys to the car to someone else. The constant comparison to others is somewhat condescending to Kobe. We all know he cannot be compared to those guys because of all of the variables. But I guess that's the ESPN in all of us. Nothing can be viewed for what it is, it has to be compared to something else.
Rob Long
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Reaction On Markakis
 Finally, someone has shown they have a pulse in the Baltimore Orioles' clubhouse. Finally, someone has stepped up and said what needs to be said. Now, hopefully, that will cause those guys to do what needs to be done.
We all want "nice guy," but the truth is, sometimes you need a little friction to make things work, and maybe Nick Markakis' comments have caused that friction. Maybe his words can act as the necessary evil that every successful team has.
Markakis sound as if he was tired of hearing the same old excuses when he said, "I know we have a lot of injured guys, we’re in the toughest division in baseball and we’re a last-place team. But at this point, it’s mind boggling. You don’t even know what to think, but you still have to be professional and go out and play every day."
Tell me you're not tired of the same old song from everyone in this clubhouse. This team has made more excuses than positive plays. They've found a way to lose for a long time now, and with five years remaining on his contract, Markakis doesn't sound like a man who just wants to collect a paycheck.
Let's mark this day, Thursday, June 17, 2010. Let's see what happens with this team from this date forward. Let's see if anyone who wears the orange and black took heed to what Nick Markakis had to say.
Rob Long
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Not A Lot Of Options
 Rick Dempsey Wants To Be The Orioles Next Manager
A strange thing happened yesterday after I did my show about the Orioles' managerial future. I went home and did what I usually do. I turned on MLB Network to see if there may have been either a game, or one of their great baseball programs on. The Network was showing a program about the 1987 Minnesota Twins. That team's General Manager was a very young Andy MacPhail.
The program featured comments from several members of that team, but one stood out. They showed MacPhail coming to tears when describing the reception the team received coming home after defeating the Detroit Tigers in the ALCS. It was a side of MacPhail that I've never experienced in his time in Baltimore. Not the tears but the passion. Maybe some media members who are closer to him have seen that before, but I haven't.
Recently, I've wondered if Andy MacPhail is just going through the motions right now. I've wondered if the losing has taken a toll on him like it has with the rest of us. I've questioned if even MacPhail believes he can turn this thing around anytime soon.
Bobby Valentine appeared on the Michael Kay show on ESPN Radio in New York after his interview with the Baltimore Orioles and was quoted saying, "I did go down there and I did talk with the owner (Angelos) and the general manager (MacPhail) and they have a whole lot of problems and they seem like they're really putting their heads together to try to solve them somehow, some way, {but I'm} not sure how." Valentine is an arrogant individual, but he's not a liar. It's alarming that someone who needs a managerial job would publicly say that about your franchise. That's a statement about the entire franchise, not just the team.
As O's fans ponder about who the next manager will be, maybe the question should be who wants the job. The Orioles organization has made it clear they are looking for an experienced manager, but who experienced manager wants the job? It's tough to consider that maybe the Orioles haven't reached the bottom, yet...
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Not The Right Guy
 Bobby Valentine was quoted on ESPN's Baseball Tonight saying, "I don't know that Andy and I get along that well." If Valentine did not know that going into the interview, something happened to lead to that coming out of the interview.
We only know Valentine from what we've seen from afar, but Andy MacPhail has been here since the middle of the 2007 season, and it hasn't been all good. True, it hasn't been all bad, but it hasn't painted a picture that suggests the Baltimore Orioles are closer to the top of the division now, than they were before he got here.
Andy MacPhail doesn't strike me as a man who would hire a dominant personality such as Bobby Valentine. I'm not a supporter of Valentine, at all, but his personality doesn't mesh with MacPhail.
MacPhail inherited Billy Gardner as the Minnesota Twins' manager when he took over in 1985. He then gave the job to Ray Miller and ultimately hired Tom Kelly, who had no managerial experience. Not exactly your Bobby Valentine-type.
In 2000, MacPhail hired Don Baylor who had some experience with the Colorado Rockies, but it is unknown whether he was solely responsible for hiring Dusty Baker in 2003. That move just doesn't seem consistent with Miller, Kelly, and Dave Trembley.
Now the Baltimore Sun is reporting Buck Showalter maybe the next man up for an interview. Showalter's resume is the best fit for what the O's need. He's been apart of rebuilding in the past, and it doesn't seem his ego would get in the way of the job the needs to be done. Showalter for manager.
Rob Long
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A Curtain Call?
 Was I the only one to see it? I was at a friend's house, watching the game on television as David Wright circled the bases in the sixth inning after his second homerun. It seemed to be a very long trip around the base path, but it's all good. I guess if you hit two homers in a game and on the road, you can take as long as you want around the bases.
I don't really have an issue with the fact that more fans of the visiting team goes to OCACY lately than O's fans. I do, but what can you do about it? I don't make an issue out of hearing more cheers for the visiting team than I do for the home team. It is what it is at this point. The team's not very good. In fact, they're horrible.
I thought I saw Wright come back out of the dugout for a curtain call on Sunday, after his second homerun of the game. Now, I've watched replays on several different websites, and they only go as far as to show Wright going into the dugout. What I saw live was Wright going into the dugout moments after the first cut of him going in. On this cut, it showed Wright with his cap, and not his helmet in his hand. It was followed by a loud roar from the crowd, as if it was a curtain call.
That has to be a first. Okay, if it were Albert Pujols, or A-Rod, or even when Manny hit homerun number 500 here, but not David Wright. He's an outstanding player, but you don't expect him to actually take a curtain call in your stadium.
How much humiliation has to be suffered in the ole ballpark? Who am I suppose to be upset with about what's going on? The team is the at the basement, but the fans are sitting on their hands, allowing strangers to take over. It's disheartening to say the least.
The Orioles are 17-46, that's the same record as the '62 Mets who finished 40-120. They were an expansion team. The O's aren't an expansion team, they just play like one.
Rob Long
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Money For Nothing
 The NFLPA filed a complaint against the League on Wednesday claiming the league deprived players of potential revenue when it re-negotiated its contracts with television networks.
One of the sticking points of this entire lock-out possibilities was that the League stands to make billions of dollars from its television contract whether there is football in 2011 or not. The NFLPA claims the NFL gave networks new media rights for free for the seasons leading up to the lockout, which violates a settlement reached in 1993 that resolved an antitrust suit brought by the union against the league, according to the Associated Press. Basically, the League will get $4 billion for not playing football.
"It doesn't seem fair in a lot of ways," said Baltimore Ravens cornerback Domonique Foxworth, a member of the NFLPA executive committee. "We assume we're going into this business relationship together. We're going out on this ledge together to try to come to some sort of agreement. But it seems like they have a $4 billion net underneath them and we have nothing to protect us.
"It makes us very nervous; it makes us very scared when there's a fire behind us and all of our players to get a deal done, because if we don't, we don't work. But that fire doesn't extend to underneath their feet if they have this cushion under them."
The fact that it's gotten to this point suggests to me that the Player's Union has addressed it with the League, and the owners aren't budging, and why should they? As I've said before, people are in love with "The Shield." If the owners have all of the leverage, they feel they can replace the players and fans will eventually come back because they love the game more than the name.
Maybe that's true. Did they pull the wool over the eyes of the network when it was agreed upon that the owners would collect their money whether there was a lock-out or not, or, does the network too believe that the players are the most replaceable part of this equation?
Rob Long
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BRAVO!!!
Last night, we all witnessed something that none of us never thought we'd see. We wanted to see it, and in some ways, we were told we'd see it, but we did not really think we would see Stephen Strasburg do what he did last night.
Before you say it, I know, the Pittsburgh Pirates are horrible, but they are better than the minor league batters he had been facing, but the results were the same. Strasburg man-handled Major League Baseball hitters in a way that made it seemed to be embarrassing. There's no way this kid should strike out 14 batters while walking none and only throwing 94 pitches. Basically, Strausburg did not even struggle.
What we saw was the utmost-hype turned into under-hype and even more hype for his next start. That's hard to imagine, but Stephen Strasburg may have had the best start of any athlete in the history sports, EVER.
What we also saw was a team, the Baltimore Orioles, become somewhat irrelevant in their own backyard, and on their own network.
Rob Long
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Super Powers
 Remember the days when college athletics were all about tradition and pageantry? Those days seem so long ago, but the days that could lie ahead may make today's landscape of college athleitics look like a model of traditional values.
In an article on Rivals.com, Dan Wetzel outlined how Big Ten Commissioner Jim Delaney is leading the charge to put together an ultimate power conference, and he's going about it by snatching up all of the power teams of the Big XII.
This proposal is all about the money that college football generates. With college basketball being "tapped out" of all of the revenue that it's capable of earning, now everyone, or at least Delaney, is looking to print money with college football.
Big XII Commissioner Dan Beebe shot down a proposal back in April, 2008 that would have changed the face of the BCS. He turned it down, and now his conference may be on life support. Where does that leave the ACC? Here's a link to Wetzel's article: http://rivals.yahoo.com/ncaa/football/news;_ylt=AoFfJbLAJnUzyIPF1UqxWnI5nYcB?slug=dw-expansion060610
Rob Long
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Now?
 Reports out of Baltimore and the national media indicate that Oriole skipper Dave Trembley's days are numbered. It seems that the team has come to the end of the road with the manager, and the search for a new leader is underway. Juan Samuel will take over for the time being.
Trembley took over in 2007 and has never held a winning record. His record is 187-283 with a .398 winning percentage. That isn't good, but the question remains, is it Trembley or is it the organization.
Many managers have failed during the past 13-years of losing. It doesn't matter what line-up or coaching staff, no one seems to be able to succeed in the ole Orange and Black.
So, here we go, it looks like another skipper takes over for the dreaded O's. Will it matter? Some would say no, but it remains to be seen.
Rob Long
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The Forgotten Legend
 It's funny, his retirement mirrored the last 10-years of his career, overshadowed. If you did not see Ken Griffey, Jr in his prime, you missed something special.
He was known as "Junior" or sometimes "The Kid." Those names say all you need to know about how he captured baseball fan's imagination. Some of us lived through him. He was a 19-year old phenom who lit the baseball world on fire.
On June 2, 2010, 23-years to the date of being drafted number one overall by the Seattle Mariners. He is fifth overall on the all-time homerun list. Out of all of the superstars, he is one of the few who has managed to be squeaky clean of any performance enhancing drugs.
Ken Griffey, Jr is the forgotten legend and now he leaves the game with no "pop." Griffey had no farewell tour or major press conference as to date. He left with a simple statement with his manager breaking the news. He seemed almost embarrassed to say goodbye.
Griffey was a rookie during my senior year in high school. I watched him grow up in the game. While I feel I was deprived of seeing Willie Mays, Roberto Clemente, Hank Aaron, and Mickey Mantle, I will be able to say I saw "The Kid" play. How lucky am I?
Rob Long
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No Overturn
 In the wake of the Jim Joyce "safe" call, many writers, talk show hosts, and commentators are suggesting a lot of things. One of the suggestions has been to actually overturn the call itself. Yes, to go back and end the game when Joyce called Jason Donald of the Cleveland Indians "safe" when he should have been called "out."
One of the most respected members of the media, Keith Olbermann, wrote on his "Official MLBlog" called Baseball Nerd, "The Commissioner should appoint an emergency committee to examine the expansion of replay on a formalized basis with set rules. And in the interim, in fairness to Armando Galarraga, in fairness to Jason Donald, in fairness to the fans, and especially in fairness to Jim Joyce, he ought to do a little ad hoc of his own: overrule Joyce's safe call and give Galarraga what he in fact accomplished, and only the arrogance of authority is denying him - the perfect game he pitched tonight in Detroit, the majors' third this season, second in five days, and fourth in the 135 days of play dating back to Mark Buehrle's job last season."
Look, I have the utmost respect for Olbermann, but I completely disagree with this. Even though baseball is entertainment, we also learn life's lessons from this game. Jim Joyce got the call wrong, replay says he got the call wrong, and even Joyce admitted to getting the call wrong, but you can't go back and just reward the perfect game. Doesn't that take away from the word "perfect?" That's like a boxer having a Technical Knock Out. It may be a knock out, but only on technicalities.
Oh, if life were only so fair. Jim Joyce's call caused Armando Galarraga to lose his bid for a perfect game. Galarraga did what I want my kids to do when someone else's mistake costs them something they deserve. He did not complain about it and sulk. He went on to pitch a one-hit shut-out. He controlled the only part of the game he had any control over, the next batter. He got Indians' centerfielder Trevor Crowe out. Galarraga moved on, and that's what we should do.
This isn't about what Jim Joyce cheated Armando Galarraga out of. This is beginning to sound like it's about what he cheated us out of. It's beginning to sound like why we give out sixth-place trophies. It's not about making sure the kid who couldn't care less gets something, it's about satisfying the parents who "feels" their kid deserves something.
Armando Galarraga was disappointed, but classy in all of this. If he's not kicking and screaming, why are we? He sounds like a young man who wants to accept Jim Joyce's words and take his actions as a human mistake. Do you remember those?
Rob Long
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Who Stays, Who Leaves
 Recently, it was brouught up on the Rob Long Show about the young Oriole players and their contract situations. Many speculate that as soon as some of the young talent gets to a point where they can go, they'll bolt to another organization. I don't think that's necessarily true.
Nick Markakis signed a long-term deal with the O's in January, 2009 for six-years. He avoided arbitration a year after batting .306 with 20 homeruns and 87 runs batted in. Nick also had an on base percentage of .406 and a ops just under .900. Nick was at a point where he could have taken arbitration and just let the contract run out, but the dollar ruled, as it so often does.
One of the many fears of O's fans is some of the young players getting good, and just leaving the organization before the team really gets something out of its investment. The Tampa Bay Rays' Carl Crawford comes to mind. He signed a four-year deal going into the 2005 season, and now he stands to make the $15 million dollars that he made in the lifetime of that contract in just one year of a new contract, probably for another team.
The Rays have a very unique situation, one the O's would love to have in a few years. Tampa has a young outfielder named Desmond Jennings who all of the baseball world is talking about. Jennings is suppose to be all that Crawford is, and more than what B.J. Upton has become. Looking at their track record, who's not going to believe them?
In addition, the Rays have several young budding stars, like Evan Longoria, who's due some big money. They want to be able to afford someone going forward, and Carl Crawford is the sacrifice they're willing to take.
With the world's economy effecting sports, some players, like Brian Roberts before the 2009 season, may realize their home is the best place to be. Some of the Orioles' young players may decide to take the money and avoid arbitration. Baseball is a different animal, and sometimes we confuse it with football. Look at how the NFL's current state sent us into state of confusion. We had to introduce ourselves to the concept of Restricted Free Agents and tenders.
Well, the NFL doesn't have arbitration years the way MLB does, and the young O's may have to stay longer than you think. I think we need to concern ourselves more with whether or not we want them to. On second thought, I put my money on Adam Jones, Matt Wieters, Brian Matusz, and company living up to high expectations.
Rob Long
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NEXT...
 Last night, the Baltimore Orioles were engaged in a pitcher's dual against the New York Yankees in Yankee Stadium. With two runners on, Brian Matusz, who had his best start in a month, was taken out of the game for David Hernandez with A-Rod due up. Derek Jeter was on third and Nick Swisher on second. Hernandez got A-Rod to ground ball to Miguel Tejada to end the inning and force a 1-1 tie going into the eighth inning.
Something happened along the way. The ball did not get to first baseman Ty Wiggington cleanly. Tejada, who has the best throwing arm of any Oriole infielder, could not make the routine throw to first to end the inning. Two runs score, and the Yankees use their great bullpen to seal the deal.
If you ever wondered if the season was over for the O's, that one play says it all. Even when they do everything the right way, they end up messing it up. They can't win, and you can't make them. Bad teams find a way to lose and good teams find a way to win. That was the difference in Tuesday night's game. The good team, the Yankees, found a way to win. The bad team, the Orioles, found a way to lose.
As the season plays out, there are no "should win" series. There are no three-game or four-game or two-game series that the O's should win. Every team remaining on the schedule is better than the Orange and Black.
So, as we are less than a week out of Memorial Day, it's wait until next year already. The problem with that is, I don't know what to look forward to for next year.
Rob Long
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Find Your Niche
 This Memorial Day Weekend was a strange one. It seemed to be an absence of mainstream sports. Yes, the sporting events were exciting, but the calendar lacked the thrill of the big three after Saturday.
I know, those of you who are lovers of lacrosse and hockey are offended, but the fact that what's considered good television ratings for post-season numbers in those sports are bad numbers for others proves they are niche sports.
I thought both the semi-finals lacrosse game of Duke/Virginia and the championship game of Duke/Notre Dame were two of the more exciting games of the weekend. Unfortunately, neither of those games drum up as much discussion as Kobe Bryant's performance against the Phoenix Suns on Saturday night.
The NHL has a dream match-up with the Philadelphia Flyers and the Chicago Blackhawks. These are two major United States markets battling for the Stanley Cup on a major network for the first two games of the series, but I bet I don't know 10 people who watched it. In fact, I know more people who watched the lacrosse championship then I know who even knew the Stanley Cup finals were on.
With the Baltimore Orioles being off, and I'm not just talking about Monday's schedule, we've become a town that's just waiting for football, and that's sad. It's almost as if we're trapped in a bubble, cut off from the outside sports world. We'd rather hear about our football team running around in shorts than watch other exciting and interesting sporting events. 37,000 plus sounds good for the lacrosse championship, but with the game having so many of our own kids, you'd thought it would draw at least 50,000 people.
The Baltimore-Metro area is becoming an area that cares nothing about things that don't pertain purple. It's tough to figure out whether that's because football is the prodigal son that's returned home and we don't want it to ever leave again, or because baseball has broken our hearts to all sports that aren't football. Either way, we're missing out on some very exciting times. Here's hoping the World Cup brings everyone out in celebration of one of the world's finest sporting extravaganzas.
Rob Long
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Disgruntled
 Photo Courtesy Of AP
As expected, the Baltimore Orioles have recalled Chris Tillman from triple A Norfolk. What wasn't certain was who the fallguy would be to make room for the right hander. My bid was for Cla Meredith, but I didn't see the O's actually acting on it.
Well, in the early hours of Saturday morning, I received an e-mail from Orioles Media Relations saying that the team had optioned Meredith to Norfolk. Tillman will get the start on Saturday. This is what Meredith had to say in the aftermath according to Brittany Ghiroli of MLB.com:
"I've been in a rut before. I don't panic, but I'm not the one who calls the shots around here," Meredith said. "I'm kind of at the mercy of my employer. I'm 26 years old, my arm's very healthy -- as is the rest of my body -- and I envision pitching for a long time, whether it's here or somewhere else."
Meredith went 0-2 with at 5.40 era in 21 games. It's mind-numbing how players are shocked when they're held accountable for subpar play. Meredith hasn't gotten the job done, and now it's time to see if someone else can.
Rob Long
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"Flamed" Out
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The JaMarcus Russell saga continues in Oakland. The NFL's number one overall draft pick in 2007 has not made good on the $32 million the team paid him to be the franchise quarterback. In result, the Oakland Raiders cut him on May 6th for being overweight and under prepared to be a professional football player.
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On May 26th, the Raiders filed a grievance against Russell to collect $9.55 million dollars. According to Jason Coles of Yahoo Sports, The grievance is based on the contention by the Raiders that the contract was changed at one point during Russell's three-year stint with the organization and that he's not allowed to keep all of the money he had collected prior to his May 7 release. Russell, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 NFL draft, was guaranteed $32 million as part of a six-year contract reportedly worth $68 million.
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The Oakland Raiders made a bad business investment decision when they made Russell the number one pick. They made another bad decision when they gave him that huge contract, and now they want their money back. I'm not sure if business runs that way. This a decision they have to live with. Do your homework.
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Rob Long
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"Aull" I'm Saying Is...
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John Aull, a sales rep at Fox 1370 is an huge NBA fan. John is greatly responsible for our NBA Draft contest sponsored by Coors Light and Clutch Sports Bar in Canton.
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Yesterday, on the Rob Long Show John shared some points about the NBA play-offs and the state of the Association in general. I "convinced" John to do a blog for Roblongshow.com. I think you'll enjoy it:
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      Shame on you Baltimore! Shame on you for not caring enough about the NBA!  Wednesday night I sat and watched Game 5 of the Eastern Conference Finals and was absolutely enthralled. You could cut the tension in the air with a knife. The game was what NBA Playoff Basketball is all about, the final score didn't matter. It was like round 5 of a title fight setting up for later rounds. The atmosphere was insane, the arena was loud; I mean Ravens vs. Steelers in December for a division title loud. Did I mention that the game was being played in Orlando? Orlando a media market relatively the size of Baltimore that is for all intents and purposes a tourist town. A tourist town smack dab in the middle of one of the football capitals of the country and they have a successful NBA franchise that sells out on a consistent basis. Baltimore what are we thinking?  Why can't this town get behind the NBA and actually build enough support to bring an NBA team back to this city, which by the way is one of the best high school basketball towns in the country (another thing that we as a city neglect on a regular basis).       This is a basketball town just ask Rudy Gay, Carmelo Anthony, Jeff Green, Juan Dixon, Sam Cassell, Wojo, Duane Ferrell, Reggie Lewis and Mugsy Bogues. The Bullets were stolen from us much like the Colts were, there are no petitions to the league, no bids for expansion, no wooing of the Hornets or Super Sonics or Nets all of which whom have left their original city or plan to leave. This is an outright shame. I know what you are thinking; the Baltimore Arena can't attract an NBA team. Well you are right. But why would the Stadium Authority build a new Arena if there isn't interest in a team? We can pursue this, we can petition this, you can't tell me that people who love the NBA in this area who maybe go to 2 or 3 Wizards games a year wouldn't go to 10 plus games closer to home. The responsibility falls on our shoulders as a community.       The first step is to get the Wizards to play 4 home games a year at the Arena. That's ten percent of their home games, to accomplish this there has be compromise. We have to sweeten a deal for the Wizards owner Ted Leonsis. Concessions, parking, ticket sales we have to forfeit these things even to be close for this to happen. The second step is to work out a split on the Arena's sponsorships; the Wizards have to be able to sell their sponsors in our market. This may be the most difficult thing to accomplish because of the dollars that we are talking about. For the Wizards to concede to this plan they need to be able to put their current sponsors in the Baltimore Arena, and we have to let that happen, no questions asked. The third step is to buy tickets. We need to buy them in bunches; Ticketmaster (which is coincidently owned by Ted Leonsis) keeps track of zip codes and area codes of all of their customers. If we as a community, the 410s and the 212s, can purchase most of the tickets available then we automatically prove that there is an interest. The fourth step and probably easiest is that the local media members need to push for this. Someone needs to call Mark Viviano, Keith Mills, Jerry Sandusky, Stan Charles and yes even Nestor Aparicio and get this thing promoted. IF YOU BUILD IT THEY WILL COME and we need all of those names to get behind it for it to work. Forget Free the Birds and Save Preakness and Baltimore Racing, lets focus on this; Bring Basketball Back to Baltimore.          Other NBA Rants       Watching the game last night I had an epiphany. The NBA is very cyclical. Look at the players that are playing in the NBA this year and ignoring D Wade, Lebron, Dwight Howard and Carmelo and think about who is playing and when they were drafted. The most notable names in these playoffs other than the four that were mentioned earlier are the following Rasheed Wallace, Kevin Garnett, Kobe Bryant, Paul Pierce, Steve Nash, Marcus Camby, Chauncey Billups, Antwan Jamison, Vince Cater, Michael Finley, Grant Hill, Dirk, Jason Kidd and Tim Duncan were all drafted between the years of 1994 and 1998. That's at least 9 Hall of Famers and some of the best role players over the last 15 years (best player missing is Iverson and he's a lock for HOF). Now look at the 1981 to 1985 NBA drafts. Isaiah Thomas, Joe Dumars, John Stockton, James Worthy, Michael Jordan, Charles Barkley, Sam Perkins, AC Green, Karl Malone, Patrick Ewing, Mark Eaton, Clyde Drexler, Hakeem and Chris Mullin are the most notable names from that draft era.       Let me make some comparisons for you; Rasheed Wallace and Sam Perkins are almost identical, look at their careers both Tar Heels, both started with a lot of raw talent and could do whatever they wanted in college and both transformed their games from the inside big man to the occasional spot up shooter (side note: Rasheed Wallace played with more heart and energy last night than I've seen in years, Cheers to you Danny Ainge for being the best at what you do). Mark Eaton and Marcus Camby are so similar it's scary; they've continually shut down the most prolific big men of their respected eras. Mark Eaton used his long body to terrorize the likes of Kareem, Ewing, Hakeem, Robinson and Moses Malone. Camby does the same thing. I'm a firm believer in the fact that Kevin Garnett and Tim Duncan can do whatever they want on a basketball court; whatever they want except play well against Marcus Camby. They cannot dominate him. Same thing goes for Howard, Boozer and Kenyon Martin. Clyde and Vince Carter are obviously comparable, as are Michael Finley and AC Green. If Grant Hill were healthy his entire career who knows what could have been, but he is our James Worthy. Chauncey Billups is every bit the leader that Joe Dumars was. Steve Nash and Jason Kidd are in their own ways a scary mix of John Stockton and Isaiah. Jamison is a smaller less dominant Ewing; both junk offensive players who never won but put up 20 and 10 every night. Paul Pierce is a more athletic Chris Mullin, Karl Malone and Charles Barkley who were completely different players in their own right dominated their positions much like Garnett and Duncan do today. And I'm sorry to say this but Kobe Bryant is this era's Michael Jordan. He is an absolute assassin whose only goals in life are to be the best player alive and to win at any means necessary. He started as an above the rim player with quick first step (just like Mike), he honed his defensive game to be the best (just like Mike) and he added a long range jumper that people both respect and fear especially with the game on the line (just like Mike).       Think back to the NBA 13 years ago when we saw the draft classes of 81-85 ride out into the sunset and when they were the most relevant players in the NBA Playoffs. Think about the fact that the classes of 94-98 are in the November of their careers. If the NBA truly is cyclical wake me up in 13 years and lets talk about the draft classes of 07-11.        SIDE NOTE       Who would have thought that JJ Redick would be playing on a court with Rasheed, KG, Paul Pierce, Ray Allen and Dwight Howard and wouldn't be outclassed? I would have said that you are insane.  View Comments (1) - Post New Comment
The Numbers Game...
 For those of you who've listened to me on the Rob Long Show, you are aware that I'm not a stats guy. I acknowledge that stats tell a story, I just don't believe that stats tell the whole story. A player can be well in one statistical category, but not really be productive for his team.
At the same time, I believe some lock in on certain stats to prove whatever point they want to make at particular times. For instance, many fans in Baltimore believe that you win championships by running the football and playing great defense. The stats that are used to justify that belief are 10-years old. Whenever their team wins a game with good running stats, that's always pointed out. It seems they never see how throwing the football may have opened up the passing game.
You know what the story is, not only do I host a sports talk show, I'm also the host of sports discussion wherever I post up and yesterday, it was the barbershop. The discussion was about how important, or unimportant, stats are.
What is the most important stat in football? What stat helps a team win games and championships more than any other single statistical category? Is that stat from the offensive or defensive side of the football? We'll discuss that on the show today, with our question of the day, Facebook as well as posting your comments on this blog.
Rob Long
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Don't Be A Tease
 I watched the Baltimore Orioles on Tuesday, and I was teased by the team. Okay, maybe I started this wrong, but that's what it felt like. I witnessed Jeremy Guthrie pitch well, even though he threw 114 pitches in only six innings. I watched them take advantage of scoring situations, even though they were 0-4 with runners in scoring position. I saw them score five runs to win a game, even though none of the batters for the Birds saw at least 20 pitches combined the entire night.
While I celebrate a win, any win for my baseball team, part of me knows that the negative things I saw last night will come back to haunt this team more often than not. That's the problem. Everyone, even the manager, gets so caught up in winning games, since they come so few and far between, that we don't look at how the ugly things that this team does remains a constant. I saw that last night.
You saw the O's tie the game in the fourth inning when Miguel Tejada crossed the plate. What really happened is Adam Jones grounding into a double play, but Cliff Pennington threw the ball away, allowing that run. Cheer the run, but Jones put himself in a situation where he should have bounced into another double play with a bad approach at the plate.
Ty Wiggington gave the team the lead in the sixth inning with a sacrifice fly. He drove in the run and advance another runner to third which allowed another run to score, and the team has been missing that. What was lost in all of that was Wiggington saw 16 pitches in four trips to the plate and never put himself at an advantage all night, including that at-bat.
Guthrie pitched six innings in which he only gave up one run. However, he threw 114 pitches, including 67 strikes and 47 balls. He nibbled all night. We would criticize Dave Trembley here, but why does it take a front of the rotation pitcher 114 pitches to get out of the sixth?
I don't apologize for looking at the team with a critical eye. I was there. I still give my attention to what they are doing when there was only 14,685 others who paid for a ticket along with me to be there. If they play 10 consecutive games like that, they will be lucky to win four. I'm not looking at the glass half-full, I'm looking at the glass. When your lead-off hitter, Corey Patterson, has four plate appearances and only saw 17 pitches, something's wrong. In comparison, Jason Bartlett of the Tampa Bay Rays saw over 20 in the lead-off spot, and walked three times.
Rob Long
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Lessons Learned
 You're 24-years old. In your first two Major League Baseball seasons you batted .270 and .277 respectively. You've already been an All-Star and have a Gold Glove on your resume. In only your third year, you're expected to produce on a higher level, and with a .254 average and five homeruns in late-May, your season is a colossal failure. To whom much is given, much is required. That's the lesson that Baltimore Orioles centerfielder Adam Jones is learning.
Professional sports is a business, and the wide-eyed 22-year old may not have known that when he was acquired in the Erik Bedard deal before the 2008 season. Now, the expectations and being deemed part of the cornerstone of a troubled franchise, Jones is finding out that baseball is his business, and not just the game he grew to love while developing his craft at Morse High School in San Diego. This is now how he earns a living and it is his job to produce, and when he isn't doing so, he's going to hear about it on radio, on television and read about it in newspapers and on websites. If you ask Adam Jones, he'll tell you that he's learning that lesson.
Since the expectations on Jones are so high, the fact that he's 12 for his last 36 with two homeruns, six runs batted in and a .316 batting average has gone undetected. It is partially because that's what fans and the organization have come accustomed to. Again, Jones will continue to get schooled on who he is and what's expected of him.
Unfortunately, there's no one in orange and black to teach Jones how to win. He came to a club that hadn't won in a decade, and there is no real "Oriole Way" to be taught. The Oriole way as he knows it is about being out of contention early and learning to just play out the schedule. Hopefully, Jones can be part of a group that helps change all of that. Until then, let's just hope he learns the valuable lessons he needs to learn to become a real pro.
Rob Long
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Trembley Pre-Game
 Dave Trembley addressed the media today in the O's dugout. He started by saying he was hoping to say hello to Frank Mato, but he wasn't due here until about 4:30, confirming the speculation that he was replacing Alfredo Simon.
Trembley also talked about there being another call-up for Saturday, May 29th, but said he'd let the media do it's homework on who that would be. The consensus in the media clubhouse is Chris Tillman will make his 2010 Orioles debut for that spot in the rotation.
Trembley said David Hernandez embrased being moved to the bullpen and said that the young right-hander said he could pitch tonight if needed. Hernandez only gave up one earned run in 5.2 in his start Friday against the Nationals, but had given up 12 in 9.2 in two previous starts.
Garrett Atkins will not start tonight. The free-agent acquisition is three for his last 28 and hasn't had a hit since May 15th. He has no homeruns on the season and some speculate his future with the O's is in doubt. The Birds still owe him about $3.5 million, and that certainly is a factor.
Trembley addressed comments that he made after Sunday's game when he said Simon's injured hamstring was caused in part to a throw from Luke Scott who was playing firstbase. Trembley said he looked at the film and noticed that the closer hurt his hammy on his second step off of the mound. The manager apologized to Scott for the public scrutiny.
Trembley looks and appears to be a man who's feeling the pressure. His team is 14-31, he should feel the pressure. The Orioles haven't hit well, and the bullpen hasn't pitched well. He admitted that the pen hadn't been great. This will be an interesting short homestand.
Rob Long
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Analyze That
 Le'Ron McClain's Twitter page has been in the local news a lot lately. It seems the former Alabama fullback and two-time Pro-Bowler is campaigning for a new position, running back.
McClain rushed for over 900-yards during the 2008 season, but became more of a traditional fullback with the maturation of Ray Rice in 2009. I witnessed the relationship between Rice and McClain grow as the '09 season materialized. I saw the encouragement the two gave one another as they communicated with one another. Often, the two would leave the stadium or practice field together. It seemed to be a genuine friendship, not just a working relationship. Le'Ron McClain seemed to accept his role, and had a lot of pride doing what he was doing.
Today, McClain is being criticized for what he's writing on his social networking page. Le'Ron for running back is what he called it.
Now, fans have come to realize that fullbacks are a dying breed in the NFL. We know they don't make a lot of money either. Okay, name three fullbacks in the League not named Le'Ron McClain. Give me the top five running backs and name the fullbacks who block for them.
The point is, if fans see this, shouldn't Le'Ron? The guy wants to get paid, and wants to get paid like a man who can run the ball, not just as a man who can block. That doesn't maximize his earning potential. He received a quality education at the University of Alabama, he's no dummy.
If you continue to read his Twitter page, you'll see he also mentioned that he and Ray Rice were going to do big things this year. That doesn't sound like a guy who's trying to be divisive.
As far as how it's perceived in the locker room, fans take offense to things like that more than players. The guys who line it up know it's a business more than the majority of the people who cheer for them. To the 70,000 plus at M&T Bank Stadium, it's a game. To the 53-men on that roster, it's a game that's become their business. It's where they work.
Before you get down on Le'Ron McClain, and say that he should "know his place," consider this: He's a businessman who's trying to increase the value of his most precious commodity. If you're wondering, that would be Le'Ron McClain.
Rob Long
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Are We There, Yet?
 I've been asked, seemingly, everyday about Dave Trembley and what it takes for him to get fired. I use to have answers for that, but now, I'm at a loss for word.
No, I don't think this team will win the American League East by putting another manager in place. I don't even know if they will be much better than they are now. What I do know is, this is as bad as they can possibly be and something's got to change.
For the sake of argument, let's say Trembley's not the problem. Okay what is and why hasn't he addressed it? Isn't that what a manager/head coach is suppose to do? Name four players in the Florida Marlins line-up and tell me why they are able to contend with markets like Philadelphia, New York and Atlanta? Why are the Tampa Bay Rays able to contend in the same division we say we aren't able to win?
It's time to do something new. I've been patient with Andy McPhail, and haven't put him on blast yet, but if this is acceptable for him, he's a loser too. There's no way a winner could put his stamp of approval on this product and not shake things up. By doing so, you are saying you endorse it. He wants a legacy outside of being in charge of running the Baltimore Orioles. He better look around himself and either jump ship, or make the ride a lot better than it is now.
The Orioles aren't good, but they aren't the worst team in baseball either. Their record says they are at 14-31. Who saw that coming? Kansas City, Cleveland and Pittsburgh are better than the O's. Better yet, we are the team that none of those teams want to be compared to.
THIS IS BIRDLAND
Rob Long
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Just A Hunch
 Save this blog, because it's just a hunch. I'm speaking with no secret knowledge of what the Baltimore Ravens are going to do with their roster. I'm only looking at what's around me, and moving forward with my premonition.
I am a personal fan of Mark Clayton. I've often said that after football, Clayton's transition to regular life with be very easy because he has his head together. However, I don't know if he wants to be a Raven. I'm not sure he views his experience with the organization as all positive, and I'm not sure if the current regime has him on their "Fav 5" either. Maybe both sides wins and Mark Clayton is catching passes for someone else in 2010.
The team has an awful lot of linebackers, and many of them were drafted. I think Antwan Barnes is "on the bubble." Prescott Burgess can be very valuable on special teams, and that almost makes him to valuable to part ways with now, so where does that leave Barnes? Name them, besides the starters, Jameel McClain, Jason Phillips, Sergio Kindle, Paul Kruger, and Brendon Ayanbadejo. You can see why all of those guys would stay. Either performance, or investment, but there are reasons. Barnes and Edgar Jones?
Morgan Cox is a rookie long snapper that was brought in from Tennessee. With all of the talk of Matt Katula last year, you almost saw that coming. Cox better learn all he can because Katula's problems were caused by injuries. If he's healthy, he's money. He played through the injuries and never made excuses. I don't see this team going to a rookie long snapper in such a crucial season.
Davon Drew, we never knew you. With all of the tight ends in camp, and all of them being high draft picks and good, where does Drew fit in? If they want to keep a blocker on the roster, you can almost make the argument of moving Edgar Jones back to that position. However, the Ravens won't hesitate to put an extra linemen in for that situation. Drew is without a Baltimore zip code next season.
The final situation is one that I would lose credibility with if I don't comment on, and that's Jared Gaither. I don't think he leaves Baltimore. I believe there is a power struggle going on right now that could consist of many things. Gaither just moved to the right side, he may not like that. His agent is a vulture and wants a huge contract. I'm not saying that if my son was a football player, I wouldn't want his agent.
John Harbaugh wins these battles. Gaither will do exactly what this team needs him to do and he'll do it well because he wants that contract. I think he'll be a Raven for 2010.
These are just a few Ravens hunches I have. Tell me what you think about mine, and some of your own. Roblongfox1370@gmail.com, or put your comment below.
Rob Long
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Internal Affairs
 We've found out more information surrounding the Hanley Ramirez situation, and we now know who turned on the light that the young Marlins shortstop saw.
Andre Dawson and Tony Perez, who both work for the Florida Marlins, and both Hall Of Famers, sat down and had a talk with Ramirez. Correction, they communicated to him, because I'm not sure Ramirez was allowed to speak.
According to reports, Dawson looked at Ramirez and said, "I'm not going to say a lot, because if you say the wrong the thing to me, then you might wind up on the floor on your rear end." He continued by saying, "Look, I'm going to level with you," he told Ramirez. "You either hear me or you don't. For one, you're not bigger than the game. You don't show a manager up. The way you're going about this is literally the wrong way. It's an immature act ... and this could come back to bite you in the rear end in the worst way."
From the very beginning, the Florida Marlins have done a great job handling this. Ramirez was back into the starting line-up on Wednesday. He was greeted very warmly by the Marlins fans, but that's to be expected. The important part to this is, he received a lesson that he'll probably never forget.
Where are the Baltimore Orioles Hall Of Famers? What is there relationship with the team? Who's taking these guys in to talk to them about their transgressions, or just give them affirmation on what their doing? The O's have a much richer tradition than the Marlins, and yet they use the great who are at their disposal. Why have history if you can't learn from it? All you have here is journeymen disrespecting this organization and getting away with it. Hanley Ramirez is an All-Star and a batting champion and the Florida Marlins did not let him disrespect them, or the game.
Rob Long
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A Valuable Lesson
 You know the story by now, Hanley Ramirez booted a groundball from his shortstop position and "trotted" toward left field to get it and his manager, Fredie Gonzalez took exception to it. He benched his reigning National League batting champion and that was just the beginning.
Ramirez was approached by some local reporters, and he was quite arrogant about his response. He made a statement, saying Gonzalez did not understand because he never played in the Major Leagues, and that he wasn't going to apologize.
What we learned from this incident is that several Florida Marlins, including Dan Uggla, have had trouble with Ramirez and his attitude. That became a public situation because Ramirez openly disrespected the game and was called out by his manager, who immediately benched him Monday, and followed it up by not having him in the starting line-up Tuesday.
This is, only, what should happen. A player should not be treated like he's bigger than the game, regardless of whether or not he's won a batting title. So, if Fredi Gonzalez can bench Hanley Ramirez on a team that 21-19, why can't Dave Trembley bench anyone for not hustling on a team that's 13-27? What do you have to lose?
Rob Long
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The Debate Continues
 Yesterday, my inbox was flooded with comments about the post on the site about the need for a sufficient passing game. It seems people were stuck on the number, 4,000, and did not understand the entire point that I was trying to make. I'll chalk that up as miscommunication on my part, but even in that, my point was proven.
The fact that many of the debates I engaged in via my e-mail account (roblongfox1370@gmail.com) or Facebook was over passing for 4,000 yards tells me all I need to know about where Baltimore football fans are. I was given the names of quarterbacks, many of them not in the past five Superbowls, who've won without the benefit of passing for 4,000 yards. I was even asked to name the quarterbacks who've lost the big game after having achieved that magic number. On and on again, the discussion grew about passing for 4,000 yards.
While I stand on that, and the need to have a quarterback who can and will pass for over 4,000 yards, my point of being that "Three-Headed Monster" was lost. You cannot be that in today's game and win. You can debate the passing yards total all you want, but you will not win a Superbowl with the running game being your "Bread and Butter" in this league. You need a strong running game, but it cannot be the dominating force on your offense. Since 2005, when the new rules changes really started to take off, every Superbowl team, winner or loser, has featured a quarterback and a passing game that can take over a game. Even if the running game was not working during a particular game those teams could win.
That's what the Baltimore Ravens are building towards. If you look at the offense, and what they've done to it, this team can win if the running game is completely shut-down during a game. The personnel on this team is so it can win a game by any means. With the money that's being spent in the passing game, don't think for one second that this team isn't going to throw the ball more.
Look at the Ravens' history. When they spend a ton of money on defense, they are a defensive team. When they spend money on running backs, they run the ball. The Ravens are spending a lot of money in the passing game, they will throw the football.
Rob Long
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The Billick Effect
 This is, by no means, intended to bash Brian Billick. For the record, he helped this team win a Championship, and I don't think just "any" coach could have done that at that particular time. He will forever be viewed, by me, as the coach who brought me my first Superbowl.
However, it seems that our football faithful suffer from "The Billick Effect" when building their expectations about their football team. You hear the same lingo and terms you heard during Billick's tenure. Baltimore wants the same identity that won Superbowl 35, and that's not going to happen.
As I was sitting at Della Rose's in Canton, I got drawn into a conversation about the Ravens and their off-season moves. Okay, I didn't get drawn in. I love talking sports and the truth is, if you look at me hard enough, I'm going to engage in a sports-related conversation. Yes, I'm that easy.
Anyway, me and the fellas (I know it's spelled wrong people) were talking about the additions to the team, and people couldn't stop talking about the wide receiver and tight end positions. "I hope they don't start throwing the ball all over the place this year," one patron said. "We have a three-headed monster on this team, and they need to use it. That's how you win championships. You gotta run the ball."
Not exactly. That's how the Ravens won a Superbowl 10 years ago. A lot has changed in the National Football League since then. The League has put a stop to all of that "three-yards and a cloud of dust" stuff by design. They are concerned about their product, and they don't want that type of team representing them anymore.
In 2009, the NFL had 10 quarterbacks with over 4,000 yards passing. Seven of those teams went to the play-offs and nine of those teams had winning records. The only team that did not have a winning record were the New York Giants and they were 8-8. In 2000, there were only three quarterbacks with over 4,000-yards and only one team had a winning record.
The perception of passing the football has changed because the results have. Throwing the football use to be a plus, now it's needed to win in this league.
In 2000, nine running backs had over 300 carries, last season only six but five of 2009's 1,000-yard rushers averaged over five-yard per carry. That suggests teams are getting more productivity from fewer carries.
What does all of this mean? The Indianapolis Colts and the New Orleans Saints. Those are the two team who were in the Superbowl last year. Before that, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Arizona Cardinals. These are four teams who threw the ball well and whenever they wanted. They didn't just throw on third-down. They didn't have a three-headed, or even a two-headed monster or any other type of catch-phrase for their backfield. They had quarterbacks who don't manage games, they win games. Catch up to the new way of winning championships.
Rob Long
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That's Who They Are
 We all went into this home stretch for the Baltimore Orioles thinking that this would be a good time for them to make up some games. We looked at the schedule and saw the Seattle Mariners, Cleveland Indians and Kansas City Royals and thought with all of the problems those teams had, the O's would be able to rebound and win five or six games.
With the Birds winning two out of three against the Mariners, it looked pretty realistic that the team would have a really good home stand.
Then, the Indians took two over the weekend, and the Orioles started to look like what they really are, American League cellar dwellers. They are a team that can't put together what needs to be put together to win games.
Fans of the team have pointed at hitting, the bullpen has been under fire, baserunning has been the blame. The truth is, bad teams find a way to lose, and that's what this team does. The one, nearly steady, force on this team has been the starting pitching, but that hasn't been great, when you look at the ERA's. It's just been somewhat okay.
The Kansas City Royals come to town before the O's go on the road. A 4-4 record will tell us that we are only mediocre against other bad teams. A losing record will tell us things that we really don't want to admit. A 5-3 record will give Bird fans a moral victory. Either way, I'm not sure if this thing can be blown up in enough pieces to fix as it is. These are trying times for fans of the Black and Orange.
Rob Long
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LeBron Gone?
 After the Cleveland Cavaliers loss last night, all talk turned to whether or not LeBron James was staying or leaving. Many signs point to the New York Knicks and some even point to the Chicago Bulls, but it's almost a foregone conclusion that "King" James will leave the Buckeye State.
What are Cavs fans thinking? What are his teammates thinking? Some national analyst, many being former players, say there was a disconnect with James and his team. Gone was the celebrating and the fun-loving team from Cleveland. They just seemed to go through the motions, at times.
Once upon a time, LeBron was compared to legendary players as a positive. Now, it's a negative comparison. Either way, LeBron needs to discover who he really is. For now, he's a superstar who's team became, only the second in NBA history, to have consecutive 60-win seasons without even making it to the NBA Finals.
Rob Long
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A Verbal Spanking
 "Where's Andy MacPhail during all of this," is a question that I've been asked so many times during the Baltimore Orioles' recent struggles. I've had no answers for that question. Andy hasn't spoken to me directly, so it's difficult for me to speak for him.
However, on Wednesday, through a video on MLB.com, MacPhail spoke to the fans, and in many ways, to his players in a unique way.
Andy MacPhail delivered a mini-state of the O's union address in a two minute and forty-five second account of all that's gone wrong for the Baltimore Orioles. MacPhail seemed to admit that he was as "floored" by the team's start as the fans.
Just as it seemed he was about to make excuses for the unacceptable play, he mentioned that the team hasn't gotten the productivity from first base, left field, designated hitter, and center field. I admired that. He stopped beating around the bush for a change and came direct and correct. That's what I expect from Andy MacPhail.
MacPhail talked about changes, but also said the team was going to "...Try to make changes we think make sense..." That dismisses any silly trade scenarios that don't make sense.
The Birds responded last night by getting six hits combined from first, center, and DH. I'm not implying those players will go on to become All-Stars this year. I am implying that this is what should have been done weeks ago. If the manager can't deliver that message, it's good to know the GM can.
Rob Long
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To Be The Man...
 Ric Flair said it best, "To be the man, you gotta beat the man..." That has been my only issue with annointing LeBron James as "The man."
Magic Johnson had to beat Larry Bird. Larry Bird had to beat Magic Johnson. They both went through Dr. J. Michael Jordan had to get past the Detroit Pistons and ultimately defeat Magic Johnson. Kobe Bryant had to win one without Shaq. They all had to "accomplish" something to be considered the best. They had to build a legacy that ended with a championship.
It's not too late for that to happen with LeBron. That can still happen this year. The series isn't over, even with a 32-point loss at home. The Cleveland Cavs can go to Boston, beat the Celtics, and settle things back in Cleveland. That's beside the point.
"King" James looked clueless Tuesday, as Boston refused to do what so many have done for him. They would not "give" him anything. They wouldn't roll over and allow him to have his moment. He's going to have to earn his moment.
Paul Pierce has been regarded as one of the better "under the radar" super stars in the NBA for years. Even he had to go toe to toe with Kobe for the world to know how good he was. Who has James' post-season dance been with? Who is the actual marquee June match-up? Everyone wants it to be Kobe, but other than a puppet commercial, it hasn't happened.
NBA Championships don't come from hoping and wishing. They come from owning a post-season moment, or sometimes multiple, just to get there. On Tuesday, for awhile, LeBron James looked disinterested. That won't get it done.
LeBron is considered the best player in the NBA. I've agreed with that, but he's the best from October through April. In May and June, he's left a little to be desired. As far as the back to back MVP's, Steve Nash accomplished that as well.
Rob Long
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Gaithers' Injury
 Picture From Profootballtalk.com
Oniel Cousins', the next starting right tackle for the Baltimore Ravens? Jared Gaither, the next starting left tackle for the Buffalo Bills? According to reports from Profootballtalk.com, those scenarios are "very likely."
Some believe Gaither was sat out of practice because the Ravens did not want to risk an injury that would hurt their leverage in a trade possibility. That sounds likely, especially if the brass has already made their decision on the Maryland alumn. Why throw him in harm's way if you want a small king's ransom for him?
Another way of looking at it is, why let him steal time from Cousins, if he's indeed your next right tackle? These are precious minutes, now, and everyone of them count.
However, by keeping Gaither out of sight, it only adds to the questioning of the trade possibilities. If his injury is "minor," as Profootballtalk.com reported, why can't he stay out on the field and just watch? Holding him out of practice has been thought to be the Ravens' idea, and not Gaither's or his agent's. If it is the Ravens' idea, he's gone, and there's no turning back. If it's coming out of Gaither's camp, you can't trade him if he's hurt.
Rob Long
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Something's Not Right
 I have been known to say some pretty outlandish things on my show and in my blogs. Things that take guts sometimes, or just experience in dealing with certain situations. I think some, if not most, forget that I've been a coach longer than I've been a sports talk radio host. There are things I see in games, especially on the college level, that cause me to say those things that people challenge me on. Usually, if not all of the time, I stick to my guns.
Several months ago, while nearly everyone was talking about the lack of talent at the University of North Carolina, I talked about the lack of cohesiveness. The players seemed to be going through the motions, and not really concerned with the gameplan of Roy Williams. They had loads of talent, just were not playing as a team.
That was laughed at by many, but again, I stood my ground. I boldly made a comment, "You all will see that something's wrong in Carolina when someone, you'd least expect, transfers at the end of the school year."
Immediately, Tar Heels and other ACC fans began to talk about the players who were either graduating or going to the NBA and that it would be foolish for anyone to leave. I was told it was impossible. Again, I think some forget that I've been a college basketball coach longer than I've been a sports talk radio host.
On Thursday, the Wear twins, David and Travis, announced, through their father, David Sr, that they were transferring from the University of North Carolina. Those are two players you would not expect to transfer. If you don't believe me, look at the UNC message boards and tell me what the Tarheel faithful are saying about this move.
Reports are that UCLA is very interested in the pair from Huntington Beach, California. That's beside the point. The point is, UNC's problems were not about the lack of talent, it was about the lack of something else. Whatever that "something else" is, it caused two players to leave the program.
Maybe the Wear twins were part of the problem. Maybe Coach Williams is happy about this move. I can't see that though. There's no way a coach would be happy to see talent walk out before it's time. However, UNC better fix whatever's going on before this becomes a trend.
Rob Long
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Our Fearless Leader...
 Orioles fans and observers have been frustrated by the lack of offense by the team this season. On Wednesday, the Birds went 0-4 with runners in scoring position. It's gotten so bad that we are expecting them not to perform well in those situations. They usually live up to our expectations.
I, unlike many around town, still have some faith in Andy MacPhail. Call me crazy, but I believe if it's going to happen, he's the man that can make it happen. I just get that vibe around him.
I know, if he's so smart, why hasn't he made any moves yet? Well, I don't think they expected to start off this bad. Not just with the record, but lack of productivity. Not just losing, but if they were losing 5-4, or 7-6, I believe we'd all have a different outlook. But when your pitching hasn't been horrible in the American League East, it's difficult to accept the fact that you can't hit.
On Wednesday, MacPhail finally spoke. "There is going to come a time where we’re going to be obligated to keep making changes in terms of offensive personnel and they’re going to get the opportunity to head to [Triple-A] Norfolk and hone their swings because they’re not doing anything to help us now," said MacPhail. "I would say there isn’t a great deal of time left before they have to start doing more than what they’re doing now. I’m not staying with them forever. It’s not a suicide pact. They either have to start performing or they’ll go to Norfolk."
That's great, and I don't take it as a idol threat, but who are you going to send to Norfolk, when no one's hitting? Do you just trade your line-up for Norfolk's line-up? Certainly, you can't do that.
MacPhail added, "Sometimes you have to take in account the other half of the equation which is the other guy on the mound, but still, we’re not producing," he said. "If we’re going to have to rely on our pitchers to pitch a shutout to win a game, we’re in for a long season. There will come a time where really, sometimes you have to make a change for the sake of change if you’re not getting performance at this level. "
I'm all for that, so why not start with the manager? I know, I sound like a broken record, but the whole thing should be gutted out.
Rob Long
Quotes Provided By Baltimoresun.com
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Very Unique
 Yesterday, we did a poll on Roblongshow.com, asking readers to name the best college athletic program in Baltimore. Johns Hopkins University seemed to be the overwhelming favorite for our readers and listeners of The Rob Long Show.
Hopkins has an extraordinary lacrosse program, but as pointed out by Phil "The Super Producer," Hopkins has a great baseball program as well. Listeners talked about the facilities at Hopkins, which gives credibility to the program as well.
 The question is, how can an area with so many colleges with solid athletic backgrounds not pay more attention to college sports? UMBC men's and women's basketball have both been to the NCAA tournament in the past five years and they struggle with attendance. Morgan's men's basketball has made three consecutive national post-season tournaments, but we still live and die with the Terps. Loyola has a great soccer program but some of my friends couldn't tell you where their new stadium is. Towson lacrosse is good, and Rob Ambrose is trying to build that football program up, but only 100 or so showed up for their spring football game. Coppin State University has one of the more respected men's college basketball coaches on the mid-major level in the country and he can't get any respect at home.
 I haven't even mentioned the Division III programs like Stevenson University, which has one of the better athletic facilities around. They'll also start their football program in 2010, but will not actually play until 2011.
Baltimore is upset because the Orioles haven't won in a sports generation and the NFL Draft is the talk of the town as soon as the Ravens season is over. What about college athletics? Instead of complaining about the cost of tickets for the professionals, and how some can't afford it, go check out the most affordable sports entertainment in the area. Go where your attendance actually makes a difference. There are no major television deals that help these programs exist. There's no threat of a lock-out either. They need your support. How about throwing on a "Towson Football" t-shirt or a "Morgan Basketball" hoodie? Okay, you didn't attend either of those schools, but you never cashed a check for the O's either.
 I'm not discouraging you from supporting the pros. I would never do that, because I would not stop supporting them. What I am suggesting is that Baltimore establish an identity for being a great sports town nationally. Contrary to popular opininon, we are not recognized as such.
 The best way to establish this identity is by, not only having a rooting interest for the O's and the Ravens, but the five Division I teams in this area. You know it. When people talk about how Philadelphia is such a great sports town, they talk about how they use to sell out minor league hockey games and the tradition of the "Big Five" college basketball rivalries. No one talks about that in Baltimore. It's shameful. It all goes to waste.
Rob Long
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They're Still Here
 For months now, I've been saying, and believing, that until the Boston Celtics have lost four games in a seven game series, do not count them out. Too often fans look at what goes on in February and March and believe that's what they're going to see in the post-season. That's not always the case.
The Celtics are a veteran team who lives for the play-offs. They may look old and tired and ready to go home at one point, then, all of a sudden, something happens. That something is called May. You get through April, hoping to see May.
Check your calendar boys and girls. It's May, and the "C's" are still around. I don't like them, and they scare me, but they are a team that has tasted championship success. While some teams are using a GPS to find the way to June, Boston is loaded with players who know the way with their eyes closed.
On Monday, the Celtics proved to LeBron James and the Cleveland Cavaliers that they aren't going away easily, if at all. They led in Cleveland on Saturday, and only a late run by the Cavs stopped Monday's game from being a 30-point smackdown. Boston completely dominated game two and outplayed Cleveland in game one for three quarters.
It's been a foregone conclusion that James and the Cavs are going to the NBA Finals. Some even believe that they're parade has already been planned. This Celtics were robbed of a return trip to the finals last year due to a Kevin Garnett knee injury. That weighs heavily on them and too many experts and fans are counting them out.
Before this series began, I picked Boston in seven and was told that the Celtics couldn't win in Cleveland. Well, they can and they did. I had Boston winning game one and losing game two. It did not exactly happen that way, but the series does go back to Beantown at 1-1. Get ready, we're going to be here for awhile.
Rob Long
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Dominance
 I heard all of the comments about Floyd Mayweather that I could hear for the week leading up to his fight against Shane Mosely. It's as if everyone forgot who Mayweather fought, at the time he fought them. It's easy to say they're nobody now, because it's years after the fight. Those guys were somebody then.
After two-rounds, many thought it was going to be an interesting fight. That's because, once again, they forgot all about Mayweather. If you know Floyd, that's his M.O. He'll size you up, then knock you down.
Mayweather took some of the toughest shots he could take and stood up. He completely dominated Mosely and erased all doubt as to where he is in his career. He is still, in my opinion, the best fighter out there. He wants Manny Pacquiao to take a test, and he won't do it. For that Mayweather is considered a coward. For that, he is the bad guy. The guy who wants to prove he's clean, and wants his opponent to do the same is the bad guy. My, have things changed.
Rob Long
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Get Out Your Brooms
 The Baltimore Orioles looked to be having a horrible time as usual as the New York Yankees left town, having taken two out of three against them, in their home park. The nightmare of a 2010 season continued and so did the lack of clutch hitting.
Then, the Boston Red Sox came into town, and with them was a lack of clutch hitting as well. The Sox aren't what we've come accustomed to, and the O's took advantage of that. They swept Boston and are now only four games back of them, even after the worst case scenario of a start.
I spoke with someone from "The Warehouse" and they even admitted that there was no way this organization was prepared for this. No one ever imagined the team starting so badly. They could accept a 10-15 start, but that was the least of their expectations.
Right now, they are 7-18, and considered among the worse teams in Major League Baseball. They have some individually good things happening, but this TEAM isn't playing very well. That's why the latest series against the Red Sox is so important.
No, Boston isn't the same team they've been, but it's still good to know the O's can take advantage of that. They did.
Now, I still have some complaints. In the eighth inning, the O's had runners on first and second with none out. Trembley gave the bunt sign to one of his hottest hitters and homerun leader, Ty Wiggington. I disagreed with that from the start because his other hot hitter, Miguel Tejada, followed Wiggington.
Boston walked Miggy, loading the bases with one out. Now, you've taken the bat out of the hands of your two hottest hitters. You now have two hitters scheduled to bat who are both hitting under .200. You also have Matt Wieters at the plate. Instead of pinch hitting Wieters, you allow the two sub-.200 hitters to bat. The Orioles don't score.
To add insult to injury, you bat Wieters with none on in the next inning. He hits a double that's waisted. So, while I give credit to the team for a successful home stand, I'm still calling for a change at the managerial positon.
Rob Long
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Will He Stay Or Will He Go
 In the midst of all of the losing, one of the bright spots for the Baltimore Orioles has been Miguel Tejada. Miggy is batting near .300 with four taters and 13 runs batted in. On Friday night, he drove in three of the five runs in the extra-inning win against the Boston Red Sox.
Tejada is here on a one-year contract and playing a position that, other than Winter Ball, he hasn't played. If he's productive going into the All-Star break, Miggy could be a hot name before the trade deadline. The O's have no reason to hang onto him. I cannot imagine Tejada resigning with a club that isn't going to win anytime soon. His clock is ticking, and I know he wants to win before his career expires.
Ty Wiggington is another playing you could look at for trade bait. His .308 average and six homers have raised some eyebrows. He's assumed a role that he didn't expect during Spring Training when I spoke with him. He talked about being patient and waiting for an opportunity, but no one thought it would come to this. Injuries have been a primary reason Wiggington has been able to play, and he's made the most of it.
It's that time of year already. Instead of looking at the standings, Orioles fans are looking at the top prospects in other organizations to see if the team could land them. That's just the way it is in good ole Baltimore.
Rob Long
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Lots Of Questions
 We've seen it before. Not only in this organization, but all around MLB. A young kid will come up with lots of potential and high praise. The kid would even show signs of brilliance early on, just to get us really going.
Then, that kid will hits a skid that causes us to question him as much as we already annointed him. What that player does from that point on is very crucial. That next stretch of his career will make him or break him. It will define who and what he is going to be throughout the rest of his career.
Well, Adam Jones is at that point of his career. He is currently batting .204 with only five runs batted in. Some would look at his three homeruns and see that as a positive, and I guess you can, but the five runs batted in are a cause of concern. That number represents all of the runs that he did not drive in. That number represents all of the runners he's left on base.
Another number that concerns Orioles fans is 22. That represents the amount of strikeouts for Jones in less than 100 official at-bats. Far too many for a hitter who is counted on the way the O's count on Jones.
I'm not suggesting Jones is a bust. I'm not suggesting he doesn't have the ability to adjust. I'm just saying that Adam Jones is at a point in his career where he needs to study pitchers more and become more of a student of hitting. If he's already done that, then I prescribe patience and discipline as a remedy.
Jones got a lot really quickly. He was on Sports Center, an All-Star, and a Gold Glove winner all in one year. Now, it's time for Jones to get back to just trying to be a productive player for the Baltimore Orioles.
Rob Long
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It Starts Up Front
 When I'm approached by listeners and sports fans in general, the major concern for the Baltimore Ravens' defense is the secondary. Fans seem to think the Ravens should have done more in the draft and off-season to beef up the cornerback position. With Lardarius Webb and Fabian Washington ending the season with injuries, Frank Walker is not what they want in a replacement either.
While I'm not a big Walker fan, I know that every great defense was great because of the front seven and not the secondary alone. You cannot talk about the historically great defenses and not mention the pass rush first. The pass rush and the ability to stop the run is what makes those guys back there effective. I would love to get the top guys in the secondary, but you have to address major needs first, and Ozzie Newsome did that.
If Sergio Kindle and Terrence Cody do what they were drafted to do, and Terrell Suggs, Jarrett Johnson, or Paul Kruger can help with the pass rush, it makes Walker and Domonique Foxworth's job easier. If not, they certainly aren't going to be able to defend anyone for 4-5 seconds without being able to touch them. That's very difficult to do. Get to the quarterback, and you'll forget who's in the secondary until they pick one off.
Rob Long
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He's Out There
 Yesterday, on the Ravens website, an article by Sarah Ellison listed the team as one of the possible suitors for Adalius Thomas. The article sited ESPN's Rumor Central as the source for this information. Other teams listed were the Browns, Jets, Dolphins, 49ers, Broncos, Seahawks, Chiefs and Packers.
Also yesterday, on the Rob Long Show, I discussed the time when A.D. had a subtle insult directed toward Ray Lewis. My discussion was simply to point out that there are many "haters" who leave the Ravens organization. Not, at anytime, am I suggesting the Ravens would not explore the idea of resigning Adalius Thomas, simply because of words that were spoken through the media.
If the Ravens don't explore signing Thomas, it will be for football reasons. If Thomas helps this team win, and he's interested in returning, he'll be a Raven, again. My opinion, I don't think it happens, and that has nothing to do with words that were spoken when he departed. I don't know if Thomas is a good fit right now. I think his best days are behind him, and they were good days. Keep in mind, this is all a rumor now. We'll see what develops.
Rob Long
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Bow Down To The King
 Adalius Thomas was released by the New England Patriots on Monday, and that reminds me of some of the wars of words that have taken place between Ray Lewis and some of the departed linebackers from the Baltimore Ravens.
It began with Ed Hartwell. Toward the end of the 2004 season, there were grumblings of the former fourth-round draft pick's soon to be free-agent status. Hartwell had made it painfully obvious that he was going for greener grass. Not just greener in terms of the money, but also greener as in a place where he could be the star. Hartwell truly felt he was being held back from the star power of Ray Lewis, and moving on was in his best interest.
I still remember the final game of the regular season in 2004. I got into a debate with a close friend of mine who thought Hartwell was going to be special. I disagreed, pointing out that he needed Ray more than Ray needed him.
The Ravens played the Miami Dolphins at home, and needed a win and other things to happen to get into the play-offs. Ray Lewis sat out with an injury. Even though the team won, it was Adalius Thomas that really stood out, not Hartwell.
Hartwell went on the sign with the Atlanta Falcons, and became a bust. He was quoted saying, "Ray has had a great career and obviously he's gone out and made plays. That's who he is... But sometimes he might barely touch a guy, and if that's what worked for Ray and the TV would keep mentioning he was in on another tackle, why wouldn't you do it? People might say to me, 'Edge, you're being overshadowed, making plays and not getting the credit,' but it didn't bother me. The respect that mattered to me was when you turned on the tape and people saw that I was making plays."
Well, three years after that, Thomas had his big pay day and bolted to the Patriots. He was very productive with the Ravens, but again, I felt he would miss the team more than the team would miss him.
He too took a shot at Ray saying, "Everyone here shies away from being the star guy. Nobody on this team beats his chest. They just all go about their business and win."
Those two guys, among others, have cashed big checks because they've played with one of the best defenders ever. Yet, instead of just leaving town, they decided to take shots at number 52. As of now, they're both out of work and Ray Lewis remains the cornerstone of a very good defense. Thomas will probably find work, but he clearly isn't the player who left Baltimore and he hasn't been since he left.
How about show some respect for a man who's done a lot for you instead of pounding your own chest.
Rob Long
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The Skinny On Cody
 Terrence Cody is the second player drafted in the second-round of the 2010 NFL Draft by the Baltimore Ravens. . You remember him, single handedly, winning a football game against the Tennessee Volunteers with two blocked field goals. Those are the obvious things about "Mount" Cody.
What you may not know about Cody is that the Fort Myers, Florida native did not enter Alabama as a freshman, but as a junior. He attended played his first two years at Mississippi Gulf Coast joining the Crimson Tide as a Junior College transfer.
Cody was still learning the game because he never had an opportunity to play Pop Warner football due to being over the weight limit every year. Once Nick Saban got a hold of him, he became a consensus two-time All-American for a defense that led Alabama to a National Championship in 2009.
Cody was, at times, a role player for Alabama, coming out of the games on obvious passing downs. Depending on who you talk to, there was a method to Sabans strategy that extends beyond Cody not being able to get to the quarterback. Some say "The Task Master" used that substitution pattern as a way to keep Cody motivated and hungry.
Georgia Bulldogs' coach Mark Richt was quoted saying, "I haven't seen anybody who's a match for this guy one-on-one. Nobody playing on Saturdays, or Sundays probably." Ravens' fans are hoping he's right.
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Grading The Ravens' Draft
 The problem with the Baltimore Ravens in the draft every year is fans try to figure out what the team is going to do but analyzing their needs. This year, the team obviously needed a wide receiver, but they addressed that in the off-season, before the draft. They traded two picks for that wide receiver, a third-round and a fourth-round.
Right before the Ravens picked with the 25th spot in the first-round, a trade was announced that gave the team its two picks back. This disappointed Ravens' fans twice because the Dallas Cowboys had taken Dez Bryant, a very coveted wide-out for the puple faithful. Grumblings of Ozzie Newsome being out-smarted by Jerry Jones had surfaced in the Charm City.
I've been doing this sports talk radio thing for over six years in Baltimore. I'm well aware of the knee-jerk reaction of fans. I get it, Bryant is the "hot" pick and the fans want explosiveness, even though they also want "The Three-Headed Monster" at the running back position.
What fans aren't looking at is their team got two players, at positions of need, in the second-round.
I know, you're concerned about Sergio Kindle's knee. If the Ravens were overly concerned, they would not have drafted him. If the team had gotten Bryant in the first, would fans point at Kindle's knee so much? Terrence Cody was also graded a second-rounder, and the Ravens had an agging Kelly Gregg at that position last year.
The team did not address the cornerback position, but they did last year by signing a corner as a free-agent, and drafting another. One of those guys, Ladarious Webb, is injured at this moment. You still have to look at the finances. They've spent a ton of money at that position, when you look at the fact that Fabian Washington is a former first-rounder of another team and on the team too.
In the third-round, the Ravens picked up Oregon's Ed Dickson. While I liked Aaron Hernandez, and so did Scout.com, and some liked Dennis Pitta, but Dickson was still ranked number five at his position, and considered, at least, a round-appropriate pick. His skill level will help the team immediately.
Pitta went in the fourth-round, and that was a steal. Some would wonder why would the Ravens draft two tight ends in the same draft. The answer is, the team is looking for weapons, as well as help in the Red Zone. Great pick.
I can give you my opinions on David Reed, Art Jones, and Ramon Harewood, but who REALLY knows? Reed is a wide receiver, but the Ravens have had their share of late-round wide receivers pass in and out of this roster. He could be another who never sticks with a grade of 32nd among the wide receivers, or, he can shock the world by finding his way onto this team and in the rotation.
I don't worry about the "splash" of the draft. I don't concern myself with what the "experts" have to say either. Follow Ozzie and Eric DeCosta and look at what they do. If they did it, chances are, it will work out.
Baltimore Ravens Draft Grade: B+
Rob Long
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Solid Draft
 Baltimore Ravens 2nd-Round Draft Pick Sergio Kindle
The Baltimore Ravens did not have a sexy draft, but they rarely do. They pick football players, and this year, that tradition continued.
While all of the big names were being thrown out, the Ravens picked the players who best fit what they do. Sergio Kindle is going to be a young man who Baltimoreans fall in love with, and who fits well in that locker room. His swagger will look very familiar. He will walk the walk and certainly talk the talk.
"Mount" Cody is projected to be a run stopper who penetrates the offensive line. With this pick, some Ravens' fans may question the future of Kelly Gregg. After major knee surgery, Gregg did not seem to have the same explosiveness that he's possessed in the past. Cody could either push Gregg, or push him out.
Ed Dickson, the tight end from Oregon was not my favorite tight end in the draft, but he's certainly no bust of a pick. Some would argue he has most of the same tangibles as my pick, Aaron Hernandez, and he's probably a better run blocker.
Once again, a solid draft for the Baltimore Ravens. They are certainly better after the first three rounds than they were before the draft. Look for them to address more needs in the final rounds.
Rob Long
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Ravens Say No To Bryant
 Baltimore Ravens General Manager Ozzie Newsome said in a press conference that the team had a chance to move up to the 24th spot in the first-round of the NFL Draft, and turned it down. He also commented on how things would have played out even if Bryant hadn't been taken in the spot before them.
Newsome said the offer they accepted was so good, the team would have taken it whether Dez Bryant had been taken at pick number 24.
That's interesting, considering most Ravens' fans feel as if the Dallas Cowboys pulled one over on the Ravens by moving ahead of them. The trade seemed to have been more intriguing to the Ravens' brass than the receiver out of Oklahoma State. The Ravens gave up their rights for a first-round draft pick in exchange for another second-round pick (43 overall), while picking up a third (70 overall) and a fourth (114 overall).
If you know Ozzie, you know he was not comfortable with only having five picks in a very deep draft. Once he saw an opportunity to pick up quality spots, he went after it.
So, while Ravens' fans would love to blame not getting Bryant on the Cowboys, it seems that he wasn't the object of the team's desires. Getting more picks was valued more.
Rob Long
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Thank You Palmer And Thorne
Last night, as I was watching the Baltimore Orioles game, I was thinking, "This team is already just going through the motions, and it's only April." That's when one of my sports heroes demonstrated what made him so great, without even putting on a uniform.
After hitting a ground ball, Julio Lugo casually flipped the bat in the air and jogged, no trotted, no effortlessly made his way to first, or somewhere in the area of what we know as first base.
Jim Palmer blasted him, immediately for his lack of effort. Palmer pointed out, "...If you can't get Julio Lugo to run it out, who can you get?" Gary Thorne pointed out that Lugo went to the dugout and no one said anything about it. They just accepted it. Thorne added that Lugo should have been taken out of the game right then.
Well, welcome to my world. This is what I've been asking for from the organization for three weeks now. That's the problem with this team. No leadership from the top. No, I don't mean Peter Angelos and Andy McPhail, I mean Dave Trembley. The manager was shown, as Thorne was questioning the lack of consequences for Lugo's actions, and all Trembley did was look onto the field as if he did not see anything. What a joke.
Palmer later questioned the team's approach at the plate as well. Some of you would blame that on Terry Crowley, but I put that on Trembley as well. Thery has to be a fundamental approach to hitting that has to be enforced by the manager. Dave Trembley must go.
Last night, Jim Palmer and Gary Thorne seemed fed up with the lack of effort displayed by this team. Palmer represents the old Oriole way, and it's obvious he's not a fan of the new Oriole way. Continue to let this fester, and you'll never get rid of the culture of losing on this team. Think about it, Julio Lugo completely disrespected this organization and the manager let it happen. Get rid of both of them today.
Rob Long
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Media Roundtable
As promised on my Facebook page, today we are conducting a Media Roundtable discussion. We began doing these discussions last summer, and from time to time, when the right topic presents itself, we bring out some of our friends throughout the media and we let them chime in on that topic. Today, we have another very good panel. We have Phil "The Super Producer from the Rob Long Show, Syreeta Hubbard from www.thenflchick.com, Scott Hoffman from www.orioleshangout.com. Sean Neufel from www.fox1370.com, and John Dame from www.roblongshow.com. The topic is presented in a question. Is this Peter Angelos/Cal Ripken story, really a story? Do we want it to be a story because Cal is the ultimate hero, and Angelos is the ultimate villain? First, we have Syreeta Hubbard, the NFL Chick. Syreeta's new to the Rob Long Show. She made her debut on Fox 1370 last Saturday on the Saturday Morning Football Show with me and Kristen Berset. You'll enjoy this: The Orioles are currently one of the worst teams in MLB, but the buzz in Baltimore this weekend has been about a He Said, He Said match between owner Peter Angelos and former Oriole great Cal Ripken. This story is a non-issue to a team that has more than enough problems to worry about right here and now. It's sad to say that this is even news worthy, but when your team is doing as bad as the O's, people look to non stories like these for a buzzworthy topic and water cooler talk. Stories like the Ripken/Angelos "drama" tells me the Orioles fanbase are looking for something ANYTHING.. to talk about in regards to their beloved team. It's a shame that the product on-the-field isn't good enough to be a topic starter in itself. This story isn't newsworthy unless Ripken actually returns to be a part of this organization in some capacity. But until then, let's worry about wins and loses. -Syreeta Hubbard I told you she's good. She will be around for awhile as our family continues to grow. Next up is my little brother, Phil "The Super Producer." You know he's a huge baseball fan, and this topic hit him pretty hard, so excuse him if he gets a little emotional. What's up Phil: It has become easy for Orioles' fans to find reasons to hate Peter Angelos over the years and the latest story involving arguably the most popular Oriole ever in Cal Ripken just helps magnify that fact. This is a story because it puts Angelos, the guy who gets the blame for ruining the once proud franchise, against Ripken, the person many fans consider to be the franchise savior. After 12 years of losing, fans look for that sign of hope and Ripken's name usually comes up. I do not know if it is because Cal Ripken Sr. is given credit for establishing the "Oriole Way," or if it is because of Ripken's Hall of Fame resume, or maybe because Ripken is the local guy and considered one of "ours," but fans have an image of Cal Ripken riding on a white horse to save the day. When reports surface that Ripken would like to help the Orioles and is turned down by the owner, it does not sit well with people. Ripkens body of work speaks for itself. Even if he was not a life-long Oriole, Ripken is more than qualified to help an organization like the Orioles in some capacity. Ripken acknowledged that he has talked with Angelos and Andy MacPhail about the possibility of joining the organization. How serious those talks have been depends on who you believe. That is not the point. The point is that Ripken is open to returning to the game of baseball on the major league level and Angelos is happy to listen if Ripken is serious about returning. This is such a no brainer that I do not understand why something hasn't been worked out yet. Peter Angelos has to know it would be suicidal to turn down the hometown hero. That is why this story is far from over and so intriguing. If you want to get an Oriole fan's blood pumping, just mention the name Angelos, and if you want to hear stories of a happier time in Birdland, bring up the name Ripken. In the end, I think Angelos and Ripken will find a way to make both parties happy, and Ripken might return the Orioles to greatness one day, but just dont expect him to arrive on a white horse. -Phil Backert I told you he would "sink his teeth" into that one. Okay, okay, okay, we now have a baseball professional. No, I did not say a professional baseball player, but he is a professional because he covers the Orioles, as well as their entire organization for a living. Scott Hoffman from Orioles Hangout and friend of the Rob Long Show: I have a lot of respect for Ken Rosenthal, so it was difficult this Saturday to reserve judgment after hearing the Fox Sports senior baseball writer's story about Peter Angelos nixing an agreement between Andy MacPhail and Cal Ripken Jr. to bring the Hall of Famer into the front office in some undefined capacity. With the Orioles mired in their worst start in 22 seasons, pitting Baltimores Favorite Son against an owner who, to say has fallen out of favor with Os fans would be an understatement, makes for a juicy story. I'll preface what Im about to say with this: I've published reports citing "unnamed sources" as have other members of the staff at the Orioles Hangout. Is a common and acceptable practice in today's media as we all scramble to break a story first, although every so often a writer will find his sources to be slightly less than accurate. Do I think Rosenthal's "unnamed sources" were wrong about Angelos nixing a deal with Ripken to prevent the hometown hero from taking undue credit for the O's turnaround? I generally believe where theres smoke there's fire, but in this case it sounded so absurd that I simply wasnt buying it. Think about it: "Hey hometown hero offering your services to the team I own, a team that hasn't experienced greatness since you said goodbye in 2001. I dont want your presence or your help because I dont want you to receive credit should this team turn things around. Thanks, though." It' ridiculous! It would be absolute public relations suicide if that part of the story were true. My skepticism and the subsequent quotes from Ripken and Angelos don't, however, make it a non-story. As a matter of fact, after reading statements from Ripken and the O's owner, it's obvious that some discussions took place, but the rub lies within the details of those talks. Details, by the way, well have to simply take at the word of those who went on-the-record. Either way, the fan in me is glad this story broke. Ripken's pedigree, reputation, and respect for the game not to mention his history with this city and especially this struggling franchise lead me to believe it would be in Peter Angelos' best interest to bring Ripken into the organization into any role the Hall of Famer wants and now publicly those gears have been set in motion. -Scott Hoffman, Managing Editor, http://www.orioleshangout.com/ Wait, we're not done. You know we have to hear from the resident genius. John Dame is a regular contributor of Roblongshow.com and a huge Baltimore sports. This guy is so young, he probably doesn't remember the O's last winning season. Here's John: This story started on Friday with a headline that hit you right in the face: "O's Turned Down Ripken for Job". It was not only front page worthy, but it was reported by one of the most respected journalists in Major League Baseball, Fox's Ken Rosenthal. However, in the three days that have unfolded since the breaking of the article, both Peter Angelos and Cal Ripken have put out statements pointing out inaccuracies in the story. Despite the fact that Ripken's statement had no categorical denial of the fact he actually wanted the job with the Birds, he makes sure to note some falsities in the article, as well as the good relationship he has with Angelos. The Orioles' owner basically had the same nice things to say about Ripken.
Therefore, since both of the main characters in the story have put out statements that make Rosenthal's article seem rather untrue, this is becoming a non-story. There is no doubt that Cal Ripken will probably be a fixture in the Orioles' organization in the near future, as it appears that, through his statements, that he desires a good relationship with both Angelos and Rosenthal. Meanwhile, Fox's reporter, as a former writer for The Baltimore Sun, has had a sordid past with the Orioles' owner, like many in Baltimore. This article is front page worthy because of Angelos' villainous reputation; without it, no one would want to see him painted in a negative light. Cal Ripken is the darling of the Baltimore baseball scene, and everybody wants him to be on a high horse, 24/7. The 2010 Orioles are currently 2-11--so what does anybody want other than someone to rip on like Mr. Angelos? This story has startling headline. It has two controversial characters. However, here's what it lacks: reality. Sometimes, reporters allow reality to become blurred by their views or the views of their readers. This is certainly what could have happened with Mr. Rosenthal on Friday afternoon. -John Dame Finally, my friend Sean Neufel. Sean is a regular contributor of Fox1370.com and has his own site, onpoint.com. Sean isn't an O's fan, so I wanted his opinion since he's not personally invested: The Orioles find themselves mired in an early season slump presenting with MLBs worst record at 2-11. With so much promise and optimism going into the season, a 2-11 start right out of the gate is definite cause for concern and perhaps means for a change. The obvious change would seem to be field manager Dave Trembley but what if it isnt? What if, instead of or in addition to- bringing in Cal Ripken Jr? The rumblings in Birdland have point to a spat between the Orioles Hall of Famer and owner Peter Angelos. Regardless of the particulars of what was or wasnt said by whom, is this what we want as media and fans? This is a classic case of hero vs. villain. Cal is our ultimate hero and Angelos is the ultimate villain. Cal wears the white hat and Baltimoreans love him. Angelos wears the black hat. Doesnt this contrast makes us want them to be at odds? I think so. As far back as I can remember, fans in Baltimore have found every reason to drag on Angelos. It makes no difference what hes doing or not doing. He could spend money and then hed be accused of not building from within. If he doesnt go on a spending spree, its not good enough to compete with the Yankees and Red Sox. Sometimes, the guy cant win for losing. Outside of baseball Peter Angelos is a very successful lawyer and businessmen. Thats great for him but not Os fans. Fact is, he owns a baseball team whose fan base desperately wants to win and not be the laughing stock of baseball. When Baltimores favorite son, Mr. Oriole Cal Ripken offers a helping hand, in whatever capacity, Angelos would be foolish not to take it. They both deny the recent reports but that holds no weight with the Angelos haters. What has evolved of a franchise in turmoil and reportedly its favorite son has come to save the day in his orange and black Super-Man costume. As a fan, this is what I want. This media based feud entertains me because you know something will come of it. Does Angelos feel threatened by Ripkens presence? Will the pressure get to him where he finally submits and hands over the reigns? Perhaps thats a little radical, but I cant wait to find out. Get the popcorn ready. -Sean Neufel This was all good stuff to get your Tuesday morning going. Hopefully, it will give you some water cooler discussion, because the O's did not last night as they lost to the Seattle Mariners, 8-2. Looks like Brad Bergesen is headed back to Norfolk. -Rob Long
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O The Drama
 What started as a report has now turned into "He Said, He Said." That's after Ken Rosenthal of Fox Sports reported on Friday that Cal Ripken was denied a chance to work with the Baltimore Orioles by Peter Angelos.
On Saturday, ESPN reported that Angelos denied the original report and any other information pertaining to the report.
On Monday, Cal Ripken released this statement:
"In my baseball experience, rumor s and stories seem to break when things aren't going well. Let me address recent media reports. "First I want to say that Mr. Angelos never said that he didn't want me to get credit for any success that the club might have. That's just not true. "I have had a very good relationship with Peter for a long time. He has been an advisor to me, a great supporter of my foundation and it is because of him that we have an Orioles affiliate in Aberdeen. "I have met with Andy and Peter on a number of occasions to discuss many subjects. Ultimately our discussions have turned to baseball, the Orioles and me. I have enjoyed those talks very much, a nd yes the subject has been broached about me potentially joining the organization. I look forward to those talks continuing. "I have been consistent in my statements about a return to baseball since my retirement in 2001. With my son Ryan approaching the end of high school in a couple of years I have been thinking more seriously about a return to the big league game. I am more excited now to explore all opportunities and find the right situation that could lead me to the next phase of my life."
What's next? Do the fans carry this on until the truth, or what they want to believe is true, is revealed? There's no way any of us could have believed this to be a story that would go away quickly. I believe the truth lies somewhere in the middle of all three, Rosenthal, Angelos, and Ripken. There's something to Ken Rosenthal's story. To be continued.
Rob Long
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The Stopper
 Years ago, the team's best pitcher was called, "The Stopper." He was given this name because he prevented prolonged losing streaks when he took the mound.
The O's losing streak reached nine games, but it was not due to a lack of effort by Brian Matusz. In his start against the Tampa Bay Rays, the young lefty did all he could do to end what was then a short losing skid, but the bullpen did not cooperate. Sunday was a completely different story.
Matusz went 6 1/3 giving up three runs on eight hits, striking out eigh and walking one. The bullpen was outstanding as they pitched 2 2/3 of no-run baseball to close the door on the Oakland A's and the losing streak.
What's really impressive is Matusz's consistency. He hasn't been rattled of battered in any of his starts since coming up to the "Bigs." He's had times when he didn't have his best stuff, but he's never had it handed to him. He is the real deal. The Orioles can rest on that.
Rob Long
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Who Do You Believe?
 Over the weekend, Ken Rosenthal, of Foxsports.com, reported that Cal Ripken, Jr. offered his services to the Baltimore Orioles through Peter Angelos and was denied. The report indicated Cal wanted to work with the younger players and was told, "No thank you."
 I really wanted to jump on Angelos immediately, but one thing I've learned in this business, and that's to wait for a response to give your opinion. Report the news, but wait on a response.
Well, Angelos responded, via ESPN, and he denied the story by Rosenthal. Angelos told Buster Olney, "Quite simply, Cal Ripken did not offer to become part of the Oriole organization in any secondary position such as manager or as an assistant to [executive] Andy MacPhail or in some kind of support role of MacPhail." He added, "If he wants to make such a proposal, I'd like to hear about it."
 Ken Rosenthal is a trusted journalist and so is Buster Olney. Neither is known to report inaccurately. The problem is, people in Baltimore and some around baseball would question Mr. Angelos' word. What you have here is two different, well respected, media members reporting two completely different stories.
According to ESPN, Mr. Angelos referred to Ripken as a friend and considered any rejection of such a proposal would be "an impossibility." It was also reported that the motivation for this rejection would be to prevent Ripken from getting any praise for an Oriole rebound, a theory that Angelos considers ridiculous.
"That's absurd," Angelos added. "Even if someone harbored such thoughts, I think common sense would tell you that they wouldn't be crass enough to express that."
Rob Long
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Where's Midas?
 You all know the story about Midas. Remember, everything King Midas touched, turned into gold? Somewhere in that story was some tragedy I believe, but all I can remember is the touching things and turning it into gold part.
Well, I'd love for good ole King Midas to pay me a visit right about now. With the Orioles slumping, I told myself that I was going to bury myself in some NHL Stanley Cup Play-off action. Naturally, since Fox 1370 is the Baltimore home of the Washington Capitals and we have a lot of access to the team, I thought I would really jump into this with both feet.
Wouldn't you know it? The Caps begin the play-offs by dropping game 1 to the Montreal Canadiens. Yeah, it's only game 1 but come on. I sat down to watch the game and was really expecting to get my mind back into the habit of cheering for a team that wins, and they drop game 1, at home no doubt.
To add to it, I've grown quite fond of Alex Ovechkin, and he did not have one shot on goal the entire night. What is going on with me? Yes, it's about me. Can I get one team to win a game for me? Just one stinking game. That's all I ask for. It's been so long since I've experienced that joy of celebrating a win. I'm nervous because the NBA play-offs begin this week and that may carry over to the Los Angeles Lakers.
Finally, I'm thinking that since the Caps didn't win, the O's have to give me a win tonight. I stayed up late to see what happened, and they didn't. They lost as well to the A's in Oakland. That's seven in a row for them. They made two more errors too. The camera panned to the dugout in the eighth inning and I noticed Dave Trembley was still there.
All I want to do is win one game. It's been over a week now. The O's take on the A's again tonight. Maybe Kevin Millwood will get it done for me. My daughter plays in an AAU basketball tournament this weekend. Maybe the Maryland Sure Shots U12 team will deliver me a win this weekend. Go girls.
Rob Long
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He Changed Everything
 April 15, 1947 was a day that changed our country. If you think Jackie Robinson's MLB debut was just about baseball, you have no idea how relevant he was to American history.
Before Martin Luther King and Rosa Parks, Robinson took a stand all alone. He was jeered and sometimes abused. He was called "nigger" so much that the word lost it's meaning. There wasn't a racial insult that Jackie Robinson had not heard. It all happened because he wanted to play baseball. All because Jackie had invaded America's game.
It was okay for Jackie to play with the other negroes in their own league, but some did not want him in their game. Robinson stood tall in the face of adversity and won. He fought a fight for an entire race.
Today, we examine baseball and it's current state, but we also examine America and it's current state.
Rob Long
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Marshall To Miami
 Sources indicate the Denver Broncos, who just signed Brandon Marshall to his tender, have just traded him to the Miami Dolphins for a second-round draft pick. Marshall has been the subject of trade talk during the entire offl-season. The Broncos put a first-round tender on Marshall, but no one was willing to pay that amount. Once Marshall signed the tender, the Broncos were allowed to negotiate another deal, other than a first-round pick.
The New York Jets' moves during the off-season could have put pressure on the Dolphins to upgrade their offense. The AFC East could be very exciting in 2010. The New England Patriots have a ton of pick in the first 100 slots of the draft next month. Look for them to definately add a receiver to the mix as well somewhere in the first two rounds.
The Brandon Marshall deal cannot be discussed without talking about Marshall's non-football related issues. Going to South Beach could add to his problems, but most expect Bill Parcells' influence to keep the wide receiver in line.
Rob Long
Update to the original report:
Jason LaCanfora of the NFL Network has confirmed that the Denver Broncos will receive two 2nd-round picks from the Miami Dolphins.
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It's Me, Again...
 Orioles rookie pitcher, Brian Matusz, was rolling along in his start on Tuesday night against the Tampa Bay Rays, when all of a sudden, the wheels fell off.
For seven innings, Matusz owned the Rays. Then, Willie Aybar led off the eighth inning by working the count full before striking out. Normally, a full count by your rookie pitcher, who's approaching 100 pitches is enough to sound the alarm. Don't get caught in the moment of the strikeout. Look at how he got there. I thought he was running out of gas, so there's no way his manager did not see it.
The next batter roped a base hit up the middle. The announcer even made a comment about that hit being the first hard hit by the Rays. The announcer said this.
Let's go back to the end of the seventh. Matusz is a rookie. There should have been someone warming up to be ready, just in case he labored. That's what usually happens here. He's not a crafty veteran, he's making the 10th start of his career. You have to know that his night could end with very little warning. You absolutley have to know that.
Back to the eighth inning. Trembley sends his pitching coach out to "talk" to his rookie pitcher. Now, if you intend to keep Matusz in the game, which is silly, the manager should be the one who goes out to talk to him. Did I mention Brian Matusz is a rookie?
At that point, it was all downhill. You never leave a rookie in, long enough to get a loss after a great game like he pitched. You ALWAYS take him out when you can assure he gets the win, or no decision. That's what usually happens in that situation. But the bright side is, we're close. At least that's what Dave Trembley would tell us.
Rob Long
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Now What?
 On Monday, Ocmulgee Circuit District Attorney Fred Bright revealed that there wasn't enough evidence to charge Ben Roethlisberger with sexual assault of a 20-year old college student in Georgia.
"Here the overall circumstances do not lead to a viable prosecution. If they did, I would be pursuing it vigorously," Bright said. "We do not prosecute morals. We prosecute crimes." I have no problem with that. I understand how "The System" works.
Now, that we know that, what's next for Ben Roethlisberger? ESPN originally reported that Roethlisberger is set to meet with NFL Commissioner Roger Goodell on Tuesday. Roethlisberger is taking this seriously because his agent, Ryan Tollner, and his attorney, David Cornwell will accompany him.
In listening to the tone of Fred Bright's press conference, it was clear that Roethlisberger did something wrong, but the D.A. couldn't prove he did anything illegal. The key word is, "prove." That's why he will not get charged, but what is the NFL's responsibility in this? Will the League punish Ben Roethlisberger? Will the Steelers, who took such a hard stance on Santonio Holmes, punish Roethlisberger?
Lots of people will make comments and speculate before this meeting takes place. While I would love to, I realize that my comments are read by thousands, and I have to be a little more responsible in what I say. However, make no mistake, I am waiting to see if the League steps in and holds Ben Roethlisberger accountable. I am waiting to see what stance the Steelers take on this. It would be quite foolish to cut, or trade a two-time Superbowl winnng quarterback, but I do expect something to happen.
Rob Long
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Do The Right Thing
 Lethargic. That's the best way to describe the Orioles' start to the 2010 season. They seem to be sleepwalking. They seem to be going through the motions. It looks as if the team is showing up just to play nine innings. There isn't any fire in their performance. There isn't a sense of urgency to the team's mission. They look like they're saying, "It's only April. We'll get things together." Or, "We're progressing. We're getting closer. I have confidence that we'll be better next month. You'll see..."
I only think that because I've heard their manager make statements like that. That's something Dave Trembley would say. I've heard it far too often, and I'm tired of it. It doesn't work. It's never worked, but now it's old.
Earlier on Monday, I mentioned my feelings about wanting to see a managerial change, and some, including my producer, disagreed with me, noting that it's not the manager's fault this team went into Monday's game hitting 9 for 54 with runners in scoring position.
Whether you agree with that or not, Monday night's game had something that O's fans have seen too many times in the past three seasons. Adam Jones and Ty Wiggington both got caught up in bone-headed baserunning situations.
While watching the MASN telecast, it was pointed out that bad baserunning could be the result of a team trying to do too much. I can see that. I can believe a player can try to take matters into his own hands and take an extra base. I can certainly see that.
However, Jones got picked off while going to second before the ball was even delivered. He didn't get picked-off on a great move by the pitcher. He didn't get thrown out because he was leading off too far and the catcher threw behind him at first base. He simply took off before the Tampa Bay Rays did anything.
Wiggington was on first and Luke Scott was on second. The ball rolled behind the catcher and Scott took a secondary lead to see if he could take a chance. Wiggington takes off, then realizes Scott was still around second base. Only, it was already too late. He got caught in a rundown with the potential tying run at the play in Nolan Reimold. Inning over, and the Rays tack on another run in the next half inning.
Dave Trembley is the wrong man for the job. He cannot and will not get the job done. He is in over his head and not qualified to do what needs to be done for this baseball team. He needs to be replaced with a manager who is qualified. How long do O's fans have to watch this before Andy McPhail bails them out? The time is now...
Rob Long
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Steelers Falling?
 The Pittsburgh Steelers have had their issues over the past month. From Ben Roethlisberger to Santonio Holmes, the issues have been off the field, and that takes you back to the issues that they had on the field during the season.
The Steelers made their first move by trading Holmes to the New York Jets for a fifth-round draft pick. That sends a message to Roethlisberger and anyone else who thinks they are putting up with a new culture in the Steel City. It's not going to happen.
Someone else ought to take note. That someone is Steelers Head Coach Mike Tomlin. This new culture is on Tomlin's watch and some will soon take note. Maybe some are already taking note.
While the issues are with grown men, off the field, it may suggest tolerance by the coaching staff. If these issues continue, look for Tomlin to take some heat for it. Steeler Nation is hoping that it will end, because now the team has taken a beating with it in the media, and now by losing one of it's best wide receivers.
Rob Long
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There Has To Be A Change
 There's a losing attitude in Baltimore when it comes to baseball, and that's because it's a losing team. No one's being too hard on the team or the organization, they have earned the treatment of the fans and most media members who are critical. Most media members.
Now is the time for the organization to make a serious change. I personally like Rick Dempsey, but serious folks. This team needs a house cleaning from the field manager on down to, maybe even, the coaching staff. Dave Trembley is a good guy, and should remain in the organization somewhere, just not as the manager.
It's not my job to pick that guy, but the Orioles need someone to come in, who does things different, and shake these guys up. They tried that with Lee Mazzilli, but everyone kept whining about how he was a Yankee or how he was not media friendly. I wouldn't be friendly to the media either while I was trying to change the culture of an organization. What in the world do I have to be friendly about?
No, Trembley is not the exclusive problem, but we saw this with Sam Perlozzo. These are baseball guys who are a part of the losing culture with this organization. They would probably do well elsewhere, but it's not the right time for them. Andy McPhail needs to shake things up now before he loses this group with the same ole message that was here two years ago before the change was evident.
The team is 1-5, and there are problems that you can touch. It's not like in the pass when you couldn't put your finger on the issues. Bring in a man who comes right in and addresses and says enough is enough. Trembley cannot do that because he's part of the problem. Someone else can come in with the perception that he's taken on someone else's problems, and that he has a solution for that problem. Do it now before it's too late.
Rob Long
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Something To Think About
Again, I know the Baltimore Orioles have only played six games, and the calendar still reads April, but there's something that really bothers me.
April is the month when some teams, unofficially, take themselves out of contention. They do so by losing winnable games with bad bullpens and the lack of clutch hitting. If that sounds familiar, it's probably because that's what Orioles fans have been watching during the first week of the season and it's frustrating them to no end.
While the players are the ones not getting the job done, it's the manager's name that keeps coming up. Dave Trembley is on the fan's hot seat. Many of the Oriole faithful have already grown impatient with the lack of fundamentals from the players. That points directly to the manager, in the eyes of some fans. The problems that are going on are the same problems that have been going on for years.
If Trembley does get fired, who takes over? Although I'm not as quick to blame him for all of the results, I was not in favor of the hire. Trembley was already in this organization, and I am against them hiring someone who was a part of this losing culture. The first week of the 2010 season is more proof than ever that there has to be a change in culture. There is no one around who is both qualified, and who has experienced winning enough to set the tone for a new beginning. That's why you have to step outside of the organization.
This is not the time to point the finger, but the facts are the facts. Dave Trembley is a good baseball guy, but this team needs a shot in the arm. He deserves to be around, but the players and the fans deserve a new general.
Rob Long
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I Still Get Goosebumps
 Here I am, early Friday morning, looking at my kids as they put their orange and black on, preparing for Opening Day 2010.
They are the reasons I still get amped up over this day. I am thrilled that Opening Day means as much to them as it meant to me. In fact, it means more to them at a younger age than it ever meant to me. Opening Day to the Long kids is a holiday that falls below Christmas. They can tell you who's pitching, the projected batting order, and what time the festivities are scheduled to begin. How can I not get excited?
I know, the O's are losers. I know, they aren't going to contend this year. I know, it's Peter Angelos' fault that the nation is in economic crisis now. I get it. There are plenty of things to complain about when it comes to the Baltimore Orioles. But those things don't concern Rob Long, the father. All that guy cares about is that the O's put a smile on my kids faces. That guy loves the way baseball and the Orioles brings his family together like nothing else.
So, I know all of the issues this team has. They frustrate the fan in me just as they frustrate you. However, I'm invested in Camden Yards because it owns a little piece of the Long's hearts.
Rob Long
Here is a rundown of today's guests:
Former Orioles:
Bill Ripken
Paul Blair
Mike Boddicker
Joe Orsulak
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He's A Golfer
 On Wednesday, Augusta National Chairman Billy Payne commented on Tiger Woods and his extra-marital affairs.
“It is not simply the degree of his conduct that is so egregious here,’’ said Payne. “It is the fact that he disappointed all of us, and more importantly, our kids. Our hero did not live up to the expectations of the role model we saw for our children."
I'm sorry, but my kids don't care. They know who Tiger Woods is, but what he does outside of the golf world is not important. If the media hadn't reported it every waking minute of the day, they would not even know about it. They know Woods as the fist pumping golfer who wears the red shirts on Sundays. My daughter thought his hat was cool because of the unique logo.
If Tiger Woods is your hero, you need counseling. What has he done to earn "hero" status? He swings a club. This whole thing is not about Tiger, it's about the people who are making this out to be earth shattering. Tiger doesn't preach the Gospel, make laws, or determine where our tax dollars go. Tiger Woods is not on my kid's list at school as someone who can pick them up. Yet, he's become public enemy number one for cheating on his wife. This is THE most amazing thing I've ever seen in sports.
Fortunately, Woods is about to do what he was raised to do. I'm sure, of all of the conversations he had growning up, the majority of them were about how to be a great golfer. When the networks introduced him to me, they did so as a golfer. When the companies gave him millions of dollars, they did it because he was the best at what he did. None of those other things mattered then, so why should they matter now?
Rob Long
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The Ugly Truth
 For years, we've heard both fans and baseball executives alike complain about MLB economics. Having to cover the Baltimore Orioles and having the pleasure to cheer for them, I guess this should be my time to chime in on the complaining. Maybe I should insert my complaint here. I will.
I'm tired of hearing all of the complaining about MLB economics. Get over it. The top level teams in the game contribute financially to the mid-level and bottom-level teams in the game. When they sign big free-agents and go over the designated team salary, which for 2009 was $162 million, they have to pay a luxury tax.
According to ESPN.com, the New York Yankees paid $175 million in luxury taxes in the past seven years. Reportedly, that's 92 percent of the money that's been paid out in revenue sharing. My question to the teams whining about economics is, where's that money?
Yankee President Randy Levine apparently wonders the same thing. He recently told Milwaukee Brewers owner Mark Attanasio to stop whining.
"I'm sorry that my friend Mark continues to whine about his running the Brewers," Levine told ESPNNewYork.com in a phone interview Tuesday morning. "We play by all the rules and there doesn't seem to be any complaints when teams such as the Brewers receive hundreds of millions of dollars that they get from us in revenue sharing the last few years. Take some of that money that you get from us and use that to sign your players.
"The question that should be asked is: Where has the hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue sharing gone?"
Attanasio told USA today, "We're struggling to sign [Fielder] and the Yankees infield is making more than our team." This is true, but again, where's the money teams like the Yankees have been paying to teams like the Brewers?
Rob Long
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Didn't Cash In
 I know, someone is going to remind me that it's only April. I'm well aware what month it is. I'm also aware the Baltimore Orioles are a team with limited resources in a very potent American League East.
The New York Yankees began the season in Boston by blowing a lead and losing to the Red Sox. The Yankees can afford to do that from time to time, even against Boston. They are, well, the New York Yankees and they can recover from such a loss quickly. They also have the ability to run off eight to 10 in a row with ease.
The O's, on the other hand, cannot do that. If you are up late against a team that's better than you, on the road, and with your closer on the mound, you HAVE to win that game. Losses count in April too. Kevin Millwood gave them a decent start, and you have to take advantage of that.
However, I'm going to say that the arms did not lose this game, even with the blown save. The bats failed with runners in scoring position. You cannot expect to beat teams in the East with three runs, especially when you have opportunities to score much more.
In the top of the fourth inning, after a lead-off solo homer by Luke Scott, the O's followed with a Matt Wieters single and a Felix Pie double. That gave them runners on second and third with no outs. The offense failed to score another run.
In the bottom of the fifth inning, Nick Markakis doubled with one out. Markakis is the third hitter in the line-up, so you'd expect them to be able to take advantage of that. They did not.
Wieters led off the sixth with a solo homerun. With two outs, Cesar Izturis singled and stole second. Brian Roberts fouled out to third to end the inning.
Finally, in the ninth inning, Garrett Atkins led off with a double to right field. Izturis looked as if he wanted to sacrifice Atkins over, but beat out a bunt to third for a single. That left runners on first and third with no outs.
Still, the Orioles figured out a way to do what was nearly impossible and fail to score in that inning. You cannot do that, on the road, against a team like the Rays.
Yes, Mike Gonzalez blew the save opportunity and I'm not letting him off the hook for that. But you could argue that the O's lead should have been big enough to not even have a save opportunity. They cannot afford to lose this way, even in April.
Rob Long
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Please, Don't Hate
 Okay, okay, okay we are Maryland fans and we are suppose to hate the Duke Blue Devils. I get it and I do during the season. I absolutely do. However, I appreciate greatness and I respect people who can make great things happen.
What Mike Krzyzewski has done at Duke is nothing short of great. What he did with his Blue Devil team this year is an example of how great he is. This was one of the greatest coaching jobs of his career. His championship teams in years past have been far more talented than this one. He did not force this team to play "his style" of basketball. He figured out what style was best for them, and made adjustments.
You hate Coach K because of what he's accomplished. But do not allow your hatred to make you blind to what's really going on. You are witnessing one of the greatest coaches in the history of college basketball. Twenty-years from now, you'll be able to say you witnessed it. Appreciate it now.
Rob Long
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"O" The Expectations
The Baltimore Orioles begin their 2010 season on the road in Tampa Bay against the Rays. The O's send Kevin Millwood to battle James Shields. If you think Baltimore has a tough hill to climb, the Rays maybe the third or fourth best team in MLB, yet might not make the play-offs due to the depth of the American League East.
While I'm not expecting the Orioles to make it to the post-season, I do have pretty big expectations. Big because of what the team has accomplished, or not accomplished, over the past decade plus.
I expect the Baltimore Orioles to go .500 this season. I've said it before, anything less than that would be a failure. 75 wins mean absolutely nothing. The O's feature a line-up that has enough players who can get 81 wins. Yes, the East is tough, but this team is better than more than half of the teams in the A.L.
I expect Adam Jones to give us at least 150 games this season. 120 to 135 games aren't acceptable anymore. Jones has fancied himself a team leader and considers himself to be among the better outfielders in the American League. Now is the time to step it up and finish out the season.
Nick Markakis is going to have an exceptional season. He'll have over 90 runs batted in and bat over .300 like he has nearly every year. He'll have a Gold Glove performance in the outfield and hit over 40 doubles. Markakis will also add to his homerun total this year as well. If the line-up around him does what they are suppose to do, he'll hit 30 this year.
Brian Matusz will have Rookie Of The Year numbers. He will win at least 14 games this year and have an earn run average under four runs a game. Matusz will emerge as the O's stopper at some point this season and lead the youth movement on "the bump."
I look for Josh Bell to make his debut at some point this season, and to stick. His numbers will be respectable, and he will fit right into the Orioles long-term plans, as expected. He will force the organization to make moves. Garrett Atkins will have to produce. If not, the team will not hesitate to make room for Bell.
Finally, Matt Wieters will put up numbers that will only fade in comparison to Joe Mauer's at his position. Look for him to bat near the .300 mark with 25 homers and 80 runs batted in. He will also be the solid force the team needs behind the plate. The O's better make financial room on the payroll now, because Wieters will prove himself early in his career.
Yup, call me crazy, call me a fan, call me a crazy fan, but I have big expectations for the Birds in Black and Orange.
Rob Long
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Would They...?
 Jared Gaither and the Baltimore Ravens come to a roadblock. They cannot meet on a new deal, and Drew Rosenhaus isn't negotiating. He knows what he wants for his client, and that's what he's going to take.
The Ravens, on the other hand, believe in "Right player, right price." What Rosenhaus is asking for is not the right price.
Everyone knows the Pittsburgh Steelers are desperate for an offensive lineman. Even my good friend Johns Harris of the Pittsburgh Tribune Review picked an offensive lineman in our Media Mock Draft for the Steelers. It's a no-brainer for them to help the offense out by fortifying the line and getting someone to anchor it.
The Steelers own the 52nd overall pick in the NFL Draft. The Ravens lost their second-round pick, and no one wants to move up in the first-round unless you are targeting a specific player, and I am not sure if the Ravens are.
So, the division rivals pick up the phones and make a deal that sends the Steelers what they need, a lineman in Jared Gaither, and the Ravens what they need in a second-round pick. Makes sense? Some of you are losing your most recent meal right about now.
Okay, not the Steelers, but what about the Cincinnati Bengals? They could use an offensive lineman, and one the caliber of Gaither certainly makes them better. The Cleveland Browns are horrible, so send him there. It doesn't matter, how much better could he make the Browns?
That's the point. For all of you who are debating whether or not the Eagles should have traded Donovan McNabb to the Washington Redskins, think about that scenario. What if your team traded a very significant player to a team within your division?
To add to the Eagles woes, who's the leader now on that offense? You have young receivers, you lost your veteran running back and your franchise quarterback. Think about who the Eagles have lost in the past two seasons. It's funny they traded with the Redskins, because that's who they've just become.
Rob Long
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Something Out Of Presumably Nothing
 Baltimore Ravens Linebacker Jarret Johnson joined the Rob Long Show yesterday to talk about, among many things, the acquisitions that the team needs to make from this point on. While he was very excited about the glamour pick-up of Anquan Boldin, Johnson seemed to stress the importance of replacing Dwan Edwards and Justin Bannan.
His, obvious, scense of urgency made me do an inventory in my head of all of the players that this organization just had to replace once they left. The majority of those guys were either late draft picks and some not even drafted at all.
The Ravens lost Jermaine Lewis in the 2002 expansion draft to the Houston Texans and the fans became very nervous. Lewis was a mainstay during the Superbowl run, and even had a kick-off return for a touchdown in Tampa. Lewis was a fifth-round pick.
Edgerton Hartwell was the next Ray Lewis. Some fans criticized the organization for letting Hartwell walk without putting up a real fight for him. He signed with the Atlanta Falcons, and never made a serious impact. Hartwell was a fourth-round draft pick.
Does the name Adalius Thomas ring a bell? Thomas parlayed three solid years on the field with the Ravens into becoming the premier defensive free-agent of the 2006/07 offseason. The New England Patriots had big plans for the playmaker. You could probably remember each play he's made since joining New England. He's been a disappointment for the Patriots and often in the coaching staff's doghouse. Thomas was a sixth-round pick for the Ravens.
Most recently, Bart Scott was a player that no one, including me, wanted to see walk. Bart became known as the "mad-backer" because of the lack of respect that he recalls from his college days right up to the NFL. He used the fuel to become, in many people's opinion, a hotter free-agent than Ray Lewis after the 2008 season. Bart was not drafted at all.
Now, the urgency is to replace Edwards, who was a second-round pick, but also a late bloomer, and Bannan. While Bannon wasn't drafted by the Ravens, he was a fifth-round pick by the Buffalo Bills. Neither guy came to Baltimore with a lot of fanfare. So, here we go again. The Ravens have made under the radar players seem so important.
Rob Long
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The Pro Day
 The latest reports out of Austin, Texas are that Colt McCoy "wowed" scouts at his pro day. He's a four year NCAA Division I starting quarterback who's won a ton of games for the University of Texas. Under the circumstances and in the environment that players are put in for a pro day, aren't they all suppose to "wow" scouts.
McCoy didn't have to throw with a rush coming at him. There were not 80,000 people screaming while he was trying to communicate with teammates. Haven't we seen enough of Colt McCoy not to be "wowed" by what he accomplishes while throwing in shorts and t-shirt?
Look, I am as big of a sports geek as the next guy, but this pro day, scouting combine stuff, I just don't get. I understand it because I understand the game. What I don't understand is how a guy could come from nowhere and because he's a work-out warrior, now become intriguing. Or, how we could be amazed to watch a guy succeed under favorable conditions.
I think Colt McCoy is the second best quarterback in the draft behind Jimmy Clausen, but I'm not getting excited about what he's doing right now. I thought we were suppose to believe what we've seen on the field. I know, the name Chris Johnson is going to come up. But he's only doing what he did at East Carolina when he finally got a chance to perform regularly as a senior. He averaged six yards per carry. So, the combine didn't reveal any new findings.
I know it's great business because it keeps us talking about the most marketable sport in North America all year, but this pro day stuff, is all fluff.
Rob Long
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No Turning Back
 For a couple of years now, we've been hearing about the saga of Donovan McNabb and the city of Philadelphia. We thought it was Philly being Philly, but it's gone past that point now.
Fans in the "City of Brotherly Love" have purchased a single one-way ticket on the express train that seems to be heading to anywhere but Philly, and McNabb is the chief passenger on it.
With all of the reports of the Philadelphia Eagles "listening" to offers, now it seems they are not going to rest until McNabb is a member of another team. A once promising and prosperous relationship has obviously ended, and for many of us watching, we ask the same question. What went wrong in Philly?
For all of the constant complaining about not being able to win the big game, there are many football fans who were just a quarterback away thinking they wish he could have put them in the situation he's put Philadelphia in.
What the fans of Philadelphia have done is now put all of the pressure on Kevin Kolb or Michael Vick. Now, you have to win the Superbowl. How else do you justify chasing one of the best quarterbacks in the NFL away? And with the team now participating in active trade talks, there's no way McNabb returns. Is there?
Rob Long
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Permanently Down?
 When we at the Rob Long Show and roblongshow.com talk about the Baltimore Orioles, we understand why some people can't get excited. The American League East has been all New York Yankees and Boston Red Sox with one cameo appearance from the Tampa Bay Rays in 2008. How do you get excited about that?
The truth is, with all of the improvement with the O's, and with the improvement that is ahead, this team could be good and still not quite good enough. That's a tough pill to swallow when you want to cheer for your team. It's a feeling of hopelessness.
The Yankees and the Red Sox have been able to use their endless financial access to fortify their farm systems in the past, and you could only hope that one of these teams will fall off. The Yankees still have the money, but it doesn't seem their farm system is that great. The Red Sox may not have the line-up they've featured in recent years past, but their minor league system is one of the best in baseball. That's discouraging.
So, why cheer for the Baltimore Orioles when it's seemingly impossible for them to win either the East or a Wild Card? This division has, arguably, the best three teams in baseball with the Yankees, the BoSox and the Rays.
Well, it's tough to explain how to be a "fanatic." There's being an associate, and being a fan. It is my honest opinion that you don't have to explain why you need to cheer for this team when you're a fan. You do have to explain that to an associate.
This doesn't mean you have to buy tickets, but you do still have to cheer and support the team. You can't go away and not know what they are doing because they are losing. I believe the person who complains about every single loss or mistake is truly a fan because they are aware of what's going on. I don't question that person's "fandom." If you just go away with the intent to come back when they win, I question whether or not you're truly a fan.
Rob Long
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Change Your Opinion?
 Whatever stance you took on various topics surrounding the NCAA Tournament, this year's excitement could make you change your mind on any of them.
First, going into this tournament, many thought the Big East was, by far, the very best conference in the country and that the ACC was experiencing a "down year." Well, I'm not sure how you would determine that, because if you look at the tournament now, West Virginia is the only team representing the might Big East, and Duke is the lone team representing the struggling ACC. Who's the best, and who's down?
If you didn't think Tom Izzo was the best coach in America, you might want to reconsider that, NOW. Not only has he made six Final Four appearences in 12 years, but this year he did it amidst some turmoil on his team, and an injury to his best player, Kalin Lucas. When you talk of top three, you might want to mention the name IZZO.
This tournament has made me change my mind on something. Kentucky is THAT GOOD. End of discussion.
Some say 65 is more than enough, some say 96 would be better. What has this tournament told you? Regardless of where you stood on this before the tournament began, has this year's classic made you change your mind? Does the NCAA Tournament need more teams?
Rob Long
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Student Of The Game
 If you just look at what Baltimore Oriole catcher Matt Wieters has done at the plate, you would think he's had a somewhat slow spring. To think Wieters is constantly preoccupied by the numbers would be very inaccurate.
Wieters is batting below .200 with only one homerun and two runs batted in, but his job is much more complex than that. He is also charged with handling a pitching staff that features its share of veterans and younsters. To say Wieters has his hands full would be an understatement.
What's so impressive about the, soon to be, 24 year old is how much he studies the game. You would think that the attention and the praise that he's already gotten would go to his head, but it hasn't. After Thursday's win over the New York Yankees, Matt was in the O's clubhouse watching video of his at-bats, breaking down every swing. He's not taking for granted that he'll just somehow break out of this slump once the team goes North.
I spoke with Wieters and he says he spends as much time studying his pitchers as well. This young man has become a true student of the game. After I spoke with him, it was off to the weight room to perfect, yet another, aspect of his game. Matt Wieters is doing all he can to assure that the hope doesn't turn into hype.
Rob Long
Here is a rundown of today's guests:
Pat Kennedy: The Towson head basketball coach recaps a great first night of the round of 16.
Jim Duquette: The former O's GM and current MLB analyst for XM Radio talks the lastest headlines in baseball.
Sean Farnham: The FOX Sports Radio basketball analyst gives his thoughts on the tournament.
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No Surprise Here
 For weeks folks have been talking about this being Jim Boeheim's year to get another National Championship. This team, this zone, and a player like Wes Johnson provided a perfect combination for the Orange to get it done. They were the best team in the best conference, so why not?
The Butler Bulldogs did not read that script. They used double-digit scoring performances from Gordan Haywood, Willie Veasley, and Shelvin Mack to pace the 63-59 victory. The threesome had 16 boards and only two turnovers between them.
The talk after the game was about defense, but Butler's defense. The Bulldogs forced 18 turnovers and held Johnson to only 10 shots from the field.
So, while Butler goes on to the Elite Eight, Syracuse becomes, yet another, Big East team that doesn't live up to expectations.
Rob Long
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Where Do They Go From Here?
 The Baltimore Ravens have filled a lot of holes this off-season. It would be a difficult task for anyone to find a more active off-season in terms of the team being so proactive. Last year, they signed a couple of free-agents, but it was because they lost some players. Jason Brown to free agency and parting ways with Chris McAllister. This year, the team just went out and fortified the roster before losing top level free agents.
With the additions to the team before the NFL Draft, it makes you wonder, even more, what direction they'll go this year. You never really knew in the past. You could argue the Mark Clayton pick in 2005 was somewhat of a slam dunk, and maybe Joe Flacco, only because everyone knew they were drafting a quarterback, but you never know what Ozzie Newsome and Eric DeCosta are really going to do.
You can almost bet they won't draft a wide receiver, but I won't really make that bet. They could go tight end and get Aaron Hernandez out of Florida. At 6'6", 275 pounds, Corey Wootten from Northwestern is smart and could be a good pick at defensive end. What if Sergio Kindle, the outside linebacker from Texas, drops?
That's the thing, with the 25th pick in the draft, you are really at the mercy of other teams with what you can do in the draft. What you do all depends on how crazy this draft goes. You almost hope the Oakland Raiders do something, well, Oakland Raider-like. It all depends on the first 24 picks.
Then again, the Ravens could look at the depth in this year's draft and fall back in order to pick up that third round pick they lost in the Anquan Boldin trade. Again, you never know. That's the great thing about the draft, and the Ravens.
Okay, I'm not picking for them, but if I were, I would either find a team who wanted to move up, take their second and third, or look at Aaron Hernandez from Florida, if he was still available. I think you could get a very good pass rusher in the second round. What do you think?
Rob Long
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The Spark Plug
 Fans of the Baltimore Orioles are waiting on news, good news about their lead-off hitter. Brian Roberts has been hampered by a back injury that has kept him out the entire spring. Roberts' career .356 on base percentage and his 56 doubles last year makes him one of the better lead-off hitters in baseball. That's what cannot easily be replaced in this line-up.
This organization seems to have made some positive stride, or steps, and a setback at the lead-off position could be major. The addition of players like Miguel Tejada and Garrett Atkins has the potential of putting others in the proper place in the line-up. If Adam Jones and Matt Wieters continue to develop, that makes things all that much better.
The one situation that the Orioles cannot afford is to lose Roberts long term. A strong lead-off hitter is hard to replace in any line-up. The Baltimore Sun reported on March 21st that Roberts took batting practice from both sides of the plate and did not experience any problems. We can only hope that he will play 150 games this year. The O's chances are slim to play .500 baseball. Without Roberts, they're impossible.
Rob Long
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Where Am I?
 So, I was looking for a place to watch the Maryland Terps game and enjoy a frosty Coors Light while in Sarasota, Florida. Someone at the Hyatt told me that there was a place called Gecko's on Tamiami Trail. I got in my rental car and cruised over to Gecko's, to see what the fuss was all about.
When I went in, everyone stopped and turned to me as if they knew I was just visiting. One man asked, "So, do you work for the Orioles?" Just as I was about to ask him why he would ask me that, I looked down and notice that I had a black Oriole shirt on. I responded, "No, I'm here covering them for my radio station."
That's when the flood gates opened. The natives began to tell me how the O's saved the city of Sarasota from the dreaded Cincinnati Reds organization. They spoke as if the Reds were the worst organizaiton in baseball. I soon realized that it wasn't personal, it's just the Reds had no "stories" for them to sink their teeth into.
I reminded them of the recent history of the O's and how they hadn't been relevant in MLB since 1997. Just I was just cranking up, I felt as if the bartender was going to take my Coors Light back and tell me that my money was no good there. It was strange and discomforting, especially since I had just felt like we connected.
I was quickly reminded of the roster this team could feature, and the special things that could happen with this organization. I had to let them know that I was on their side, it's just that I've heard so much negative when it came to the O's, I was just filling them in.
I told them that Baltimoreans were tired of the promises of being saved from the cellar by the front office and having players never succeed. The bartender asked me about the front office people and I told him. He stopped me and asked if those people were still there. I told him yes and no and explained. He said, "Why would you hold this feller (fellow) accountable for what someone else did? That doesn't seem fair."
DAMN. I mean, this guy was giving me everything that I usually say. He had no idea that I believe in all of what he was selling, I was just giving him a dose of what I usually get. He finished by saying, "As a sports fan, all you can ask for is hope. I've been a Bucs (Tampa Bay Buccaneers) fan for years. I've seen the hopeless days, to the days of nothing but hope, to winning the Superbowl, to now, no hope again. All I want is hope."
The reception that the Baltimore Orioles are getting in Sarasota is refreshing. People here couldn't be happier to see them. It's a far cry from Ft. Lauderdale. Some would argue it's a far cry from Baltimore.
Rob Long
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I'll Wait...
 Less than an hour from the announcement, Raven Nation had already started questioning the move the team made in bringing Cory Redding from Seattle. "He's not a starter." That's what we're saying, already? "He's, at best, a role player."
I love the passion of sports fans. That passion is what keeps me employed. Why else would you listen to people talk about sports all day unless you love it?
Haven't we learned from years past? In fact, haven't we learned from this off-season? Earlier this off-season, the Ravens signed Donte' Stallworth. Immediately, the move drew lots of questions and even speculation that the Ravens were going to stop there and not sign another, or better receiver. You all do remember what happened after that, right?
Well, here we are, again. The Ravens sign Redding, and immediately, the reaction is of doubt with what this team is doing in the off-season to improve. If doubt is not a good word, include whatever word best suits you. Either way, it's Ozzie Newsome, and an organization that truly wants to win.
The instant comparison is whether or not Redding can be a decent replacement for Justin Bannan. That's funny, because I remember all of the questions I fielded about Bannan when the team signed him from Buffalo back in 2006. That should tell you something about this organization. Fans are wanting to know if the team has properly replaced a player who they did not originally think a lot of in the first place. Can't they do it, again?
I'm not going to sit here and pretend that I can predict what Cory Redding is going to be for the Baltimore Ravens. What I will do is rest on the fact that this team has fooled me, in a good way, time and time again. Cory Redding will perform in whatever role the Baltimore Ravens have designated for him. Until proven otherwise, I'll trust that.
Rob Long
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All Of Baseball Rejoices
 So many have assumed that mega-star Joe Mauer would not end his career in his home state of Minnesota. The thought was that the New York Yankees would allow Jorge Posada to finish up this season and then sign the three-time batting champion and continue to rule. They may continue to rule, but they'll have to do it without the help of Mauer.
Joe Mauer stayed home, but it didn't take the ole "hometown discount" many thought it would take. You could argue he could have gotten more if he became a free-agent, but an eight-year, $184 million contract doesn't mean Mauer has to eat beans for the next decade. His contract is the third highest behind Alex Rodriguez and Derek Jeter, both Yankees.
That's good news for many fans around baseball. The last thing everyone other than fans of the "Bronx Bombers" wanted was for this young superstar to land in Yankee pinstripes.
Rob Long
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Just Go Away...
 For four years, University of Maryland fans have complained about the play of star guard Greivis Vasquez. They've complained about his turnovers. They've complained about his shot selection. They've complained about his swagger. Terp fans have found everything there is when it comes to Vasquez complaints.
On Sunday, that all came to a disappointing end. Terp fans will no longer have Greivis Vasquez to complain about, which means they may have more to complain about.
I thought I heard it all, until I received texts and calls immediately after the Terps buzzer-beater loss to the Michigan State Spartans. As soon as the game was over, the latest complaint was that Vasquez took his shot too soon. I'm almost embarrassed to type that, but I have the texts to prove it. In fact, John Dame wrote about it on Roblongshow.com as well.
Well, for Vasquez, I'm glad it's over. No longer can Terps fans continue to eat their own. No longer can a select group continue to criticize a young man who's given his ALL to win for a university, only to be misunderstood with such a stubborn viewpoint.
Vasquez is gone. The only question is, who takes that shot next year? Don't forget, he actually made the shot to put the Terps up with :06 left in the game. His play helped get them there to have a chance to win. Before you say Jordan Williams will be that guy, remember, someone has to get him the ball. GO TERPS
Rob Long
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Overrated?
 For days, I've been engaged in the debate of whether one conference should have eight teams in the NCAA Tournament. I don't believe there's any justification, at all, to do such a thing.
Now, I will be the first to admit that the top two teams in the Big 12 and the top two teams in the Big East are probable four of the top five teams in America, but does that mean everyone else in those conferences are good? Should the Big 12 really have seven teams in the tournament?
Thursday was living proof that you can debate all you want, the proof is when you actually play the games. The play on the court has been proof that the imaginary gap that exists between the "top conferences" and the rest of the NCAA world is not as big as many thought. Some of the "mid-majors" have faired well, and have not embarrassed themselves.
Why do schools from the top conferences play such "cupcake" schedules? They are very smart. They see what happens when you play Murray State. Ohio over Georgetown may have been a fluke, but it's one that the Hoyas do not want to happen on a regular basis in the regular season.
Enough talking about who's the best. Let's settle it on the court. Day two should be lots of fun. Let's only hope for more major upsets.
Rob Long
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Day Two Upsets
 Okay, I was completely wrong about Notre Dame. Not only did I have them as my "shocker" to make it incredibly deep into the tournament, they didn't even get past the first-round. Unbelievable, but that's the life of picking tournament winners.
Georgetown is a team I've been talking about all season as one of the most disappointing performers. "JTIII" needs to check himself, because his teams continue to lose against inferior teams. They have not been as good as many thought. I, for one, did not have a lot of faith in the Hoyas for March because they've been prone to disappear before.
My upset picks for Thursday were perfect. Northern Iowa, Murray State, Wake Forest and Saint Mary's all won. Let's see if I'm as lucky today. Here are my upset specials:
Number 10 seed Georgia Tech will beat 7 seed Oklahoma State in Milwaukee. The "Rambling Wreck" is battle tested and they will win a very closely contested game. This game will be a lot of fun.
Tubby Smith has been to a few NCAA Tournaments, and he knows what it takes to win. His Minnesota Gophers had to play great basketball in February and early March in order to be here. Normally, that scares you, especially when a team has to kill it's own momentum and wait a week to play again. That does not apply here. 11 seed Gophers beat number 6 seed Xavier.
I have no ACC bias at all. College basketball is so great, I don't really have a favorite conference. I'm displaying that with this next pick. Missouri will be too much for the Clemson Tigers. In another 7 versus 10 game, Clemson takes the early flight back to the Palmetto state. Mizzou too much for the orange tigers.
Finally, I've seen Utah State play a few times, and I like that basketball team. I like them so much, that I'm picking them to win in this 5/12 match-up against Texas A&M. Call it a hunch, but this will be the only upset that the folks in Spokane, Washington will see on Friday.
Rob Long
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Day One Upsets
 It's the NCAA Tournament baby. It's that time of year when you can and will be wrong, and love it. It's the least productive work day in America. If you do not have vacation time at work, you've probably come down with some sort of rare illness that will disappear Saturday morning. I know, I've been there.
Today will probably feature some upsets. I'll give you the games that I believe will result in the higher seed's seniors shedding tears, and I will look foolish because those predictions will be wrong. But, here it is...
Though it's only an 8/9 match-up, UNLV will not advance to see Kansas. Northern Iowa is really good, and better than the Running Rebels.
Vanderbilt plays on a weird looking court. The benches are on the opposing baselines. I know that has nothing to do with this game, but I just wanted to mention that. Someone tell Mike Duffy not to read this, because his brother plays for Vandy and I have them losing to Murray State. I hope Duffy doesn't stop doing my show.
In another 8/9 match-up, I have the 9 seed winning. Wake Forest beats Texas. The Longhorns have lost 9 of their last 16 to close out the season. Make it 10 out of the final 17.
A lot of people are loving the Richmond Spiders. They are a very good basketball team, but don't sleep on the Saint Mary's Gaels. While Richmond isn't exactly on television on a regular basis, Saint Mary's may be a victim of "East Coast Bias." The Gaels advance.
Tomorrow, I'll post my Friday upsets. Feel free to tell me how wrong I am. You're probably right.
Rob Long
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Coke Zero
 On Wednesday, it was revealed that Ron Washington, manager of the Texas Rangers, tested positive for cocaine in 2009. Now, the story goes, that Washington, 57, called Major League Baseball and his bosses with the Texas Rangers and informed them of his cocaine use. Once the test came back positive, Washington was able to keep his job and escape public scrutiny, until now.
While Washington says he's only experimented with the drug once, he already began a substance abuse program, even before the positive test result came back. Since he's a first-time offender, he will not receive any further punishment.
"I don't want this to be held over my head for the rest of my life and have this be the one thing that’s associated with my name," said Washington. "I made a terrible mistake and all I can do is pray that I am forgiven for it and don't have to carry it for the rest of my life."
Rob Long
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The Forgotten Man
 On Tuesday, David Hernandez baffled the Minnesota Twins for 3 2/3 scoreless innings while striking out two. After 2009, Hernandez was written off by fans and some media members as being a guy who would just eventually end up in the bullpen for the O's.
While Hernandez has an era of over seven in Spring Training, his strike outs have been up, and his walks have been down. He's showed command of his pitches, which is something that needed to happen in his second season. At this pace, Hernandez will make it tough on being pushed to the bullpen.
Why is it a foregone conclusion that David Hernandez is going to the bullpen? It's as if everyone wants the Orioles to have five number one starters in the starting rotation. You have to have number four and number five starter, and Hernandez could grow into one of the better back of the rotation starters in the league.
One of the biggest criticisms about Hernandez is that he can't go deep into the games. That he's only a five inning guy. Well, how many four and five starters go seven? You rely on the number one through three starters to save the bullpen for the back of the rotation guys.
Here's my official campaign for David Hernandez to be the Baltimore Orioles number five starter. He could win 10 games a year if he gets at least 28 starts. Success for him would be to have an era of, not more than, 4.75. What is everyone expecting from a back of the rotation starter?
First, let me make myself clear. This is a look into the future. It's very difficult to fit Hernandez into the rotation because of Jeremy Guthrie. I just think, moving forward, Guthrie has to go and Hernandez needs to be in the rotation along with Brian Matusz, Chris Tillman, Brad Bergesen, and Jake Arrieta. Maybe Hernandez eventually gives away to Zack Britton, but for now, he's my guy in that rotation for the future.
Rob Long
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No Expansion
 Some want to use the reason for expanding the NCAA Tournament to 96 teams as a way of getting more mid-majors into the tournament. I spoke with a mid-major coach by phone last evening, and I sold him on the fact of that not happening.
True, maybe you will have, by process of elimination, a few more mid-majors, but it will not profit them nearly as much as it would the schools from the BCS conferences who were snubbed.
For example, North Carolina State goes 5-11 in the ACC and makes it into the NIT. Why? The Wolf Pack went 5-11 in a major conference and they have justification of making it to a national post-season tournament. Maine went 11-5 in the America East Conference and played Syracuse, UConn and even beat Boston College, and they can't get into the NIT.
You aren't convinced? Okay, North Carolina went 5-11 in the ACC, got eliminated in the first round of the conference tournament and they are hosting a first round NIT game. North Carolina-Asheville goes 11-7 in the Big South and plays Tennessee, Georgia, and Kentucky, and no sniff of the NIT.
These are the same teams who'll get overlooked if and when the field gets expanded. The idea of expansion will only justify why Virginia Tech and Mississippi State get into the Big Dance. The NIT will become the official tournament of the mid-majors.
Rob Long
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Please, Shut Up!!!
 I've heard all I care to hear from Seth Greenberg and others about how Virginia Tech got screwed. The Hokies screwed themselves. They made the schedule that they played in the non-conference season. No one made them play Campbell, Virginia Military and North Carolina Central.
Please, stop reminding me that they finished third in the Atlantic Coast Conference. They played the Miami Hurricanes three times and lost to them twice, once in the ACC Tournament. They also played UNC, UVA, and Boston College all twice in the regular season. Those are four of the bottom five teams in the ACC and their combined records in the conference are 20-54. You should run through that schedule. The Hokies went 5-4.
Maryland, on the other hand, played UVA twice(2-0), but also played Florida State, Duke and Clemson twice each. All of those teams are in the NCAA tournament. Maryland finished tied for first in the conference and three of those teams had a combined 32-16 ACC record.
As far as Florida State, while they lost to Maryland twice, they didn't lose to Boston College, Miami, UNC, or Miami. What's the argument here? Virginia Tech had a tainted record and it caught up with them at the end. Get over it and schedule better in the future.
Rob Long
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Expendable?
 Now, that the Baltimore Ravens have gotten a lot of their off-season offensive business out of the way, questions turn toward restricted free-agents. One, in particular, is Jared Gaither.
The 6'9" 340 pound tackle has been the subject of lots of discussion around town. There have been rumors that the San Francisco 49ers had been interested in the Ravens left tackle. With a first-round tender being placed on Gaither, some fans believe it might be worth parting ways with him in exchange for a high first-round pick.
Before you fall too far off of the cliff with that theory, let's examine some facts. Thursday, on the Rob Long Show, I asked former eight-year veteran Spencer Folau which of the 31 offensive tackles who have been drafted in the first round since 2000 would he take over Jared Gaither. Spencer named only three, and he was reluctant about the three he picked.
Ravens fans forget about experiments with guys like Leon Searcy (who never played), Kip Vickers, Adam Terry, Willie Anderson, Tony Pashos, and Ethan Brooks. The conversation of parting ways with Gaither is as if the Ravens have a long history of successful right tackles. Taking a draft pick for Gaither would move Michael Oher to the left side and leave the right side vacant. That means you'd have to move Marshal Yanda out of position, or draft a right tackle and hope he works out.
The last thing you'd want to do is put rookies on an offensive line that has to win now. This team has a future, but it's championship hopes are built for the here and now. Though Anquan Boldin isn't old, signing him gave this team a chance to win now. Resigning Derrick Mason was not an investment into the future. While Ray Lewis is still one of the best, if not the best, linebackers in the league, he's living on barrowed time.
Before you are so eager to get rid of what worked for what may work, look at the team's history at that position. While this team has had a legendary left tackle in the past, the combination of the two tackles they have now is arguably the best one-two punch they've ever had at that position. Pump your brakes Ravens' fans. Pump your brakes.
Rob Long
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What Team Is This?
 Last week this time, the Baltimore Ravens were a team looking to answer questions about it's passing game. When fans went to bed on Wednesday night, they had a team that featured a Pro-Bowl running back and two former Pro-Bowl receivers and a young quarterback that will benefit from depth.
The Ravens' brass has made moves that suggest they are not satisfied with just getting into the play-offs. With the Derrick Mason signing on Wednesday, the offensive off-season moves for the Ravens say "overkill." And I mean that in a good way.
There's one move left for the Ravens on my wish list. This team has to make sure Le'Ron McClain returns. They need a rock solid bruiser in the backfield to compliment Ray Rice and Willis McGahee. McClain has proven himself to be a true team player who will do the dirty work for the "Purple and Black." Bring him back.
It would be nice to see Mark Clayton return to compete with Donte Stallworth for that third receiver spot, but it may not be high on the list of priorities. While I believe Clayton could stand toe to toe with Stallworth in August, I'm not sure if the coaching staff thinks so. While the team talked about resigning Mason a lot before actually signing him, Clayton's name has not been mentioned publicly. Again, publicly.
What's next? Will the Ravens go out and draft a pass rusher, or do they go offense again in the first-round and add a tight end? Eric DeCosta was on The Rob Long Show Wednesday and mentioned the team wanted to add one more piece on the outside like a receiver or tight end. This was before they announced the signing of Mason. You just have to love this time of year for the NFL.
Rob Long
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An Area Of Concern
 The Baltimore Orioles have played seven Spring Training games in 2010. They have made nine errors in that time which has caused some concern with the organization. The emphasis for this baseball team this season was on pitching and defense with the American League East being so potent on the offensive level.
I've said that .500 is a must for this team this year. They cannot continue to live in the under .500 world and tell the few fans remaining that they are improving. Nine errors in seven games doesn't win in any division, let alone the toughest division in baseball. The O's will have to play close to picture perfect to play over .500.
While fans are concerned with what goes on in the middle of the order or where Matt Wieters bats, defense and pitching is the primary concern.
Another area of concern is Brian Roberts. He's not played in one game this spring and he's going to be out for most of this week due to medication to stop the inflammation in his back. No need for panic, but time for concern.
Rob Long
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Who's The Victim Now...?
 There are reports coming out in the mainstream news that suggest there will be protesters Tuesday night at the Ed Block Courage Awards. Yes, the Ed Block Courage Awards.
To remind everyone what this event is about, it is to benefit abused children. It was named after a humanitarian who's name still brings tears to the eyes of those who knew him whenever you mention him. How do you protest that?
Someone ought to forget about their own agenda here and remember what the event is all about. You don't subject these kids to this type of attention. You don't subject an event such as this to negative publicity such as this.
The question is, should Michael Vick make that call and not show up? Should he decide that being there is not the right thing for the kids and the event? That is, of course, one way of looking at it.
The other way of looking at it is, should potential protesters back away from their respective mirrors and sit this one out? This is a positive event that could be a good thing for a man who's trying to rehabilitate his life and image. Why is this a bad thing?
Rob Long
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Bargain Basement Shopping
 Oh, I know all about shopping after the traditional season. My wife lives for it. She will get all of the essentials on time because she doesn't want to risk them not being there later, but she will wait and play chicken with the stores until they drop down in prices.
Notice, I said "essentials." That's what is absolutely necessary. You don't risk someone else getting what you see as essential. You go out and buy it when it's available. Price doesn't matter, you fit it into your budget because you MUST have it.
The free agents who have been scooped up are considered essential for the teams that they've signed with. The Chicago Bears do not feel they can survive without Julius Peppers. The Miami Dolphins feel that to make the next step, Carlos Dansby has to be on their defense. They are absolutely necessary.
Don't be surprised if the next round of free agent signings go under the sticker price, because they don't appear to be absolutely necessary for anyone. They are labeled "luxuries." You don't have to have them on your roster, but if they are available, and you can afford them, why not?
Rob Long
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Now, I Like The Move
 On February 17th, the Baltimore Ravens acquired Donte' Stallworth after he was released by the Cleveland Browns. At the time, I said I would not give my opinion about the signing because I wanted to see what, or if, the Ravens would follow up that deal with another deal.
Well, the Ravens followed it up by trading for Anquan Boldin. Boldin was unhappy with the lack of appreciation he felt he was getting from the Arizona Cardinals. Before the Cards drafted Larry Fitzgerald, Boldin was the team's number one option. Once Fitzgerald burst on the scene, Boldin was not satisfied with playing second fiddle. Fitzgerald then got the number one receiver money, and the relationship was irreconcilable. Someone had to go and the Cardinals made it loud and clear that it wasn't going to be Fitzgerald.
The Ravens desperately needed a receiver who could provide a threatening presence, and the Cardinals needed a team who was willing to meet their demands. The results were the Ravens sending their third and fourth round picks to the Card in exchange for Boldin and their fifth-round pick.
Those of us in the media are always talking about who wins and loses in a trade scenario. The Ravens clearly won in this case. The Cardinals have an All-World receiver, but no one remaining on their current roster is nearly the calliber as Boldin. The Ravens, on the other hand, could not have made out better. They have a receiver who has, at least three to four years left at peak level, and one who has to prove that he can still be a Pro Bowl type number one receiver.
Now, I love the Stallworth move. He is not going to be expected to be the team's leading receiver. He is now going to be in his rightful place as the Ravens' number two, or maybe number three option. Things are looking better in Baltimore
Rob Long
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NFL New Year
 Today marks the official start to the NFL season. Who would have thought Nate Burleson would have been the first free agent to land a job. Surprise, surprise, the Detroit Lions are the team to pay a wide receiver ridiculous money.
All eyes in Baltimore are planted on the Ravens, as fans eagerly await an announcement telling them about the newest member of the "Purple and Black." Will they land Brandon Marshall? Are they even interested in Marshall?
The Ravens have tons of house cleaning of their own to do now. They have an enormous amount of free agents in their own camp that they need to settle things with, but they also to bring in some talent to become legitimate Super Bowl contenders.
Friday ought to be interesting. Let's talk about it. Who should they sign? Who should they pass on?
Rob Long
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Where Were You?
 Four years ago, Morgan State University hired Todd Bozeman to be their head men's basketball coach. Bozeman went to St. Frances and successfully recruited Reggie Holmes and immediately told everyone that Holmes would, one day, be the all-time leading scorer for the Bears. Either Todd Bozeman is a profit, or he saw something in the young Cherry Hill prospect that would make for special memories in East Baltimore.
On Thursday, March 4, 2010, Reggie Holmes surpassed Marvin "The Eraser" Webster as the Bears all-time leading scorer. He did it on senior night in front of a capacity crowd that included his Cherry Hill family, Sam Cassell, and against crosstown rivals Coppin State. It was truly a night to remember, not only for Holmes and his family, but for all who have watched this young man grow over the past four-years.
Frankly, I feel fortunate to say I was there to see a record, that had stood for 30-years, fall. This wasn't about passing Webster in the Morgan record books. This was about a program that has been looking to build a new tradition for decades. This was about a coach building his own legacy with players who have the ability to do special things. This was about a fan base that has been faithful, and who deserve to see good things happen in their own backyard. This was about a young man, who decided to stay home so that he could do all of this in front of friends and family.
To know Reggie Holmes, you had to have been there before the game began. When the four seniors, Troy Smith, John Long, Buford Foote, and Holmes were announced, you could feel the connection between them and the Bear faithful. But when Holmes was announced, it was electric. Holmes did not want to absorb the moment by himself. In typical fashion for number 11, he wanted his friends and family in the photo with him. He immediately waived his teammates to center court with him to enjoy the experience with him.
That's Reggie Holmes. If you haven't taken this ride with him, you wouldn't know that. He's not done yet. Holmes and the Bears travel to Winston-Salem, N.C. for the MEAC Tournament with their second consecutive trip to the NCAA Tournament on the line. Holmes is hungry, and as Cassell said Wednesday, could benefit from more "eyes" seeing him on such a big stage. Cassell also said that he's telling the Washington Wizards' scouts to take a long look at Holmes. Stay tuned.
Rob Long
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There Goes That Man, Again
 For weeks now, I've been trying to convince so many that Greivis Vasquez is the heart and soul of the Maryland Terps. I've also tried to gain an understanding of why so many have questioned this kid's grit and tenacity. In fact, some have questioned if he has too much grit and tenacity.
On Wednesday night, Vasquez did it again. This time, he did it on a stage that could have seperated him from the likes of so many. He was arguably the best player in the ACC. On Wednesday, he was the best player in the ACC. Vasquez now has a nation that appreciates him more than, maybe his own.
The Maryland Terps are 12-3 in the ACC. Without Vasquez, they may not be .500. He means that much to this basketball team. With one regular season game left, he has a chance for a share of the conference title, and to help set his team up for a very special post-season.
Meanwhile, Greivis keeps on plugging away, carving out his own legacy in College Park. It seems he's answered a lot of critics without even addressing it. On Wednesday, he would not allow Jon Scheyer to do what Vasquez did to Malcolm Delaney in Blacksburg. Vasquez did not allow Scheyer to out-duel him in his house, while managing to keep his teammates in the game. Three of Duke's starters took more shots than Greivis, but he outscored two (Scheyer and Kyle Singler), and outplayed Nolan Smith, who also scored 20-points.
Maryland had four double-digit scorers and no one took more than 13 shots. I'm interested to hear what folks have to criticize Greivis Vasquez about after this game.
Rob Long
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Relevance
 The Maryland Terps have opened up the eyes of their own fans this season with very impressive play. However, it has taken them until the first week in March to become, somewhat, relevant to the rest of the nation as they've cracked the top 25.
Tonight, on ESPN, the Terps have a chance to REALLY become relevant on the national level as the Duke Blue Devils come to College Park, Maryland for a showdown that could decide the ACC regular-season title, and seeding for the NCAA Tournament.
We've talked about Greivis Vasquez all season, but now it's time for the senior to lead his team against the dreaded Blue Devils. The Terps have lost six consecutive games to Duke.
It's Senior Night, and the Comcast Center will be rocking. The problem is, Duke has given Maryland some of it's more memorable, or less memorable, beat-downs of the past two seasons. If this turns out to be one of those games, Wednesday could prove to be a very long night.
Enough with the doom and gloom. The Terps have been playing great basketball, and Vasquez is on a mission. This is not about just playing well tonight. This is about beating Duke. Maryland is not interested in moral victories, they want wins. Trust me, Greivis Vasquez wants to be the ACC's player of the year, and this game could win it for him.
Tonight, Maryland versus Duke. It's more than hype, it's THE most important game of the regular season for the Terps.
Rob Long
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Expectations
 Mark Clayton was drafted in the first-round of the 2005 NFL Draft. It's difficult to say what the team's expectations were of him because they immediately signed proven number one receiver Derrick Mason in the off-season.
However, fan's expectations of Clayton were enormous, as well they should be for such a decorated wide receiver coming out of college. Clayton's career has been a disappointment to most, but he has been exactly what I thought he could be. His numbers haven't been that bad.
Mark Clayton made $2 million in 2009 and is due a raise to make his salary $2.5 million in 2010. The Ravens look like they're going to give Clayton a 1st-round tender according to baltimoresun.com. You would assume that means Mark Clayton is going to stay with the Baltimore Ravens with those financial number at stake.
Rob Long
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Bow Down
 LeBron James has decided to switch to the number 6 after the 2009-10 season, out of respect for Michael Jordan. Conspiracy theorist would wonder if this means he's considering a move to Chicago, where he couldn't wear the number anyway, but that's a bit of a reach. Or, maybe not.
LeBron hinted months ago that he was pondering changing his number to pay homage to, arguably, the greatest player who's ever graced us with his talent, on the hardwood. Some have even suggested that the NBA should consider retiring Jordan's number, out of respect of course. Since then, I've been asked that question through e-mail and just in passing.
My answer, "No." There's no debating this. Why would you retire Michael Jordan's number throughout the National Basketball Association? What's he done, other than play great basketball? Is the number of the greatest baseball player retired? Has the National Football League retired anyone's number, league-wide? The answer is no.
Jackie Robinson's number is retired, but there's a reason that extends beyond what the man did on the field. In fact, what he did on the field has nothing to do with Bud Selig honoring Robinson. Jackie Robinson's number 42 is retired because he was a pioneer. His life was bigger than his playing career. His selflessness ushered in a movement not only in sports, but in our society.
Some would even say Jackie Robinson was the father of the Civil Rights movement. His playing career transcends the game of baseball. Yes, in many ways, Michael Jordan's career did the same, as the "Jump Man" logo became pop culture. However, did Michael Jordan's career change people's lives? You know the answer to that question. Therefore, not wearing Jordan's number should continue to be an individual decision, and not a league-wide decision.
Rob Long
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How Important Is The Combine?
 I was watching the NFL Scouting Combine over the weekend, and I just couldn't put my finger on the problem. I just could not figure out what was missing. I am receiving texts about what this player ran and what that player ran, but I just could not get excited.
Then, Michael Irvin made a comment that made so much sense to me. After a receiver had a very impressive 40 time, Irvin picked the run apart by commenting on the receiver running with his head down for the first 30-yards. Irvin stated if that were to happen in a game, the receiver would get his head knocked off. Irvin also talked about seeing the receivers run after a work-out to try to get a good idea of what they'd do late in the game.
I couldn't agree more with my favorite wide receiver of all-time. I got sick of hearing how someone's "stock" either went up or down because of what they did in shorts and a muscle shirt. I guess what those guys did in shoulder pads says nothing. Why we falling in love with track stars?
C.J. Spiller had an amazing career at Clemson. The last time I checked, Clemson is in the ACC. Now, it's not the SEC, but the ACC is a very good conference full of professional talent. Spiller did not put great numbers up against Ball State and Radford. Does Radford even have a football team? He did it against Florida State, Miami, Boston College, Maryland, etc.
My point is, the meat of the resume should be what happened on the field. The Combine should not tell us something that we didn't suspect after 30-plus career college games. If the Combine reveals something inconsistent to what we've seen, throw it out. It is not real. It's completely cosmetic.
Look, I love the NFL Scouting Combine. I'll watch hours and hours of it because I can't get enough football. I just don't want it to become the meat of a player's resume. Let the games tell the story.
Rob Long
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Say No To T.O.
 When big name receivers are available, fans in Baltimore salivate over the possibilities of adding them to the "Purple and Black." From Brandon Marshall to, now, Terrell Owens, Ravens fans are always hopeful that their offense can be fixed by just adding catches.
There's a problem with this thinking. Many of the receivers that are being considered are receivers who could not help their own teams win. For example, T.O. was released by the Dallas Cowboys after the 2008 season. The Cowboys were just coming off of a 9-7, tumultuous season. The team had to make some changes, and they needed to do it desperately.
Jerry Jones decided that the best thing to do, to save his promising quarterback, was to push his leading receiver out the door. Once he did that, the Cowboys grew into being a better team, and Tony Romo became a better quarterback.
Brandon Marshall does not have one meaningful, late season catch, in all of the meaningful, late season, games he's been involved in. He's been on a Denver Broncos team that has had two historic meltdowns in two consecutive seasons. If you're thinking it's too much to expect him to put a team on his shoulders, then why deal with the headache that comes with Marshall? This team is not just a wide receiver away from winning the Super Bowl.
This offense, Joe Flacco, needs a solid, young receiver who knows his role on this team. Two teams have recently thought the best thing for them to two was to let T.O. go, and they had T.O. Why would you sign someone who teams that want to win championships said goodbye to without getting anything in return? How valuable is that guy? Where's the logic in that? That sounds like desperation.
I say, "Say No To T.O." You all already know what I say regarding Marshall. This organization knows how to build through the draft when they commit to making it happen. I question how committed they've been to the wide receiver position in the past, but I know they can make it work when they believe in building a real air assault.
Let's not act in desperation. T.O. and Brandon Marshall are players we would have passed up in the past. Haven't we learned from Owens in the past? Don't become the Cowboys by signing someone who dumped on your organization. He's already displayed a lack of respect for this city and this team. People like that don't change.
Rob Long
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What If...
 On Friday, Gatorade ended its relationship with Tiger Woods. A Gatorade spokeswoman said, "We no longer see a role for Tiger in our marketing efforts and have ended our relationship."
Maybe they don't see a role for Tiger because Tiger use to be a golfer. In a press conference, last week, Tiger apologized for his sex scandal, and ended by saying he wasn't sure when he was returning to golf.
Woods was paid millions by PepsiCo's Gatorade to be a great golfer. Gatorade didn't ask for him to be a great person. They did not ask for him to carry the banner for all of mankind. They signed him because he was a great golfer.
What if Tiger Woods had ended his press conference by saying, "I will return to competitive golf in two weeks. I truly love the sport of golf. It is who I am. Competing makes me feel complete. It's what I've done all of my life. I will continue to work on being a better man, a better husband, and a better father. I will also continue working on being a better golfer. I think the fans and the sponsor who've stuck with me, for their patience." How much of a difference would that have made in PepsiCo's decision?
Gatorade did not drop Tiger because of his transgressions. They dropped him because he's no longer a golfer. Tiger has allowed the outside world dictate to him what he should and should not do to show true remorse. In the meantime, he's killing Tiger Woods. He needs to remember who he truly is. He's a golfer. Find a course, and play.
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No Comment
 NFL Players Association executive director DeMaurice Smith and Commissioner Roger Goodell met today for, reportedly, 1 hour 40 minutes to discuss the Collective Bargaining Agreement. When the two sides left the meeting, they gave no comments as to what was discussed and no indications if there was any progress.
When Goodell returned to the hotel later, he mentioned that the league's position was to finish a new deal was before the CBA expires in March, 2011."I think it's natural that deadlines produce results, so I think deadlines help," he said. "I think there is a general desire on both sides to get a deal. But I don't think you can create artificial deadlines."
Rob Long
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Just Run Away
 It seems to be a match made in media heaven. Everyone's loving the union between Mark McGwire and Albert Pujols. One of the best power hitters in recent baseball history is now a hitting instructor for the best player in the game, who also happens to be a power hitter.
Should Major League Baseball be excited about this grand union? Does MLB want one of it's most marketable products to be linked with one of it's most controversial?
Some, including yours truly, have already wondered if Pujols is clean. Why would a young man of such high moral standards want to embrace the questions that will come along with, not only, McGwire being with the organization, but the idea of him being a teacher of the game?
MLB has conducted a witch hunt for years and it's blatant disregard for all of the other information that has unfolded since the "Mitchell Report" has unveiled their true intentions. Baseball doesn't want justice, they want an individual. Now, they've allowed one of the kingpins of it all back into the game.
Rob Long
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Falling From Grace
 Once upon a time, the University of Michigan was one of the storied programs in the country. Not only were they winning on the field, they were winning in the classroom and upheld a clean image with the NCAA.
That was then, this is now. The NCAA has accused Michigan of potentially five major rules violations. This could be just what the doctor ordered in a state that is struggling financially.
Incoming athletic director David Brandon is saying all of the right things about Rodriquez and his job status. He doesn't want to be the man to cost the state the $10 million that's left on Rodriquez's contract.
"Rich-Rod" has a clause in his contract that states his contract can be voided if he is in violation of NCAA rules. So, what the governing body finds out could be the real determining factor in Rodriquez's future, not what Brandon has to say publicly.
Violations aside, Rich Rodriquez has not been a success in Ann Arbor. The Wolverine faithful aren't happy with 8-16 record either. Maybe the best thing for the program is for the NCAA to find "something" major in this probe. Brandon, who was not part of the department at the time, can be the righteous one here and save the program from falling too far. In the meantime, Michigan can wash their hands with a bad idea of hiring the wrong guy.
Rob Long
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National League West Preview
 Manny Ramirez opened up spring training by telling the baseball world that this was his last year with the Dodgers. What a way for the two-time defending National League West champs and the team who's lost in the NLCS two years in a row to start the season. While Manny is the guy who's pushed the Dodgers over the top, it's clear he can be the man to ruin it for him as well.
Meanwhile, the Dodgers learned how to win without Manny during his drug suspension in 2009. Matt Kemp and Andre Ethier stepped up and emerged as stars, finally. Look for their development to continue as they become one of the better one-two punches in the National League.
Clayton Kershaw and Chad Billingsley will have to lead the pitching staff for "Big Blue" to repeat in the West. They will and so will the Dodgers. 93 wins will do the trick as the Dodgers return to the post-season.
The Colorado Rockies have provided fans with two of the better late-season runs in the past five years. Steady Todd Helton and his .325 batting average and 80 runs batted in provided leadership. Troy Tulowitzki led the team in every other offensive catagory.
Jorge De La Rosa and Ubaldo Jimenez provided them a force on the mound. Many baseball fans could not have told you who either of these two were before the post-season began, but they know now.
I'm not convinced the Rockies can do it again. Too many weaknesses were exposed during the play-offs. They'll be a plus-85 win team, but not enough to play in October.
The San Diego Padres are a yard sale in progress. The team you see at the beginning of spring trainin may not be the team that comes out of spring training. This team could end up losing 90 games in 2010. Jon Garland and Adrian Gonzalez are both potentially trade bait. There's nothing to really chear about in San Diego.
The Arizona Diamondbacks are a team full of potential. Justin Upton is a potential superstar and will improve on his .300 batting average and 26 homeruns. Mark Reynolds is looking for a new contract after his 44 homeruns and 102 rbi. The D-backs would love for him to improve on his .260 batting average, which would allow him to drive in even more runs.
Stephen Drew missed some games and it hurt his numbers on the offensive end. His health is very important for Arizona. If he can play 150-games in good health, he could be a .290, 25 homerun player.
Health is also the key with the pitching. The Diamondbacks have not been particularly healthy on the mound. If they are, they can be a surprise team in the National League West.
No one will have better pitching than the San Francisco Giants. Tim Lincecum isn't the only quality starter in the rotation, but he is the best. Matt Cain had a sub-3.00 earn run average and over 215 innings pitched. Barry Zito had his best season since signing with the Giants with a 4.03 era and just under 200 innings pitched.
Hitting, or the lack thereof, will keep the Giants out of the post-season. They've done a patch up job for their line-up in the off-season. While it doesn't take a tremendous amount of scoring in the West to win, it takes more than San Francisco can provide to become real players in their division.
Rob Long
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Looks Good In Purple
 I know, it'll probably never happen, but I can dream. LaDainian Tomlinson was released by the San Diego Chargers on Monday, and he wants to go to a team where he can win a championship. He's 30-years old, and he knows he's not a "feature back" anymore.
Ray Rice is the guy here in Baltimore, and everyone knows it. He is a Pro-Bowler and was second in the League in yards from scrimmage. Adding Tomlinson to the Ravens offense would give the team a weapon.
While Willis McGahee is a solid running back, that's all he is. Tomlinson gives the team a legitimate threat to catch the ball out of the backfield when he comes into the game. You could do multiple things with Tomlinson as well, like line him up as a slot from time to time. He is still productive, if you limit his snaps.
L.T. is not a stranger to Cam Cameron either. His best years were with Cameron serving as the Chargers' offensive coordinator. The reason it's no surprise Rice did so well with yards from scrimmage is because Cameron always had L.T. at the top of the NFL in that category. Tomlinson could come in and hit the ground running in an offense that looks familiar.
Again, I'm not saying it's going to happen. I'm only saying it makes sense. In a two-back system, with one back getting the bulk of the carries, L.T. would add something to the Ravens offense that they don't have. That's a second true playmaker. Yes, at 30, he can still make plays, in the right situation.
Rob Long
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National League Central Preview
 The Chicago Cubs are one of the most overrated teams in baseball and you could say the same thing for their manager, Lou Piniella. The front office did everything they could to buy the best team in the National League, and that did not happen. The only thing that happened is the Cubs having a bad clubhouse which resulted in bad baseball.
The Cubs trimmed some of the fat from the bad clubhouse, but it won't matter. They just don't have enough to beat the other contenders in the National League Central. They will have an 83-win team, at best. Look for ole' Lou to exit, stage left.
The Milwaukee Brewers have a pretty good team. Their line-up has some potential and they have players who have been to post-season play before. There have been rumors of Prince Fielder being on the move. If they do, it would be the Brewers giving up on the season, and maybe the immediate future. Ryan Braun is a tremendous player, but Fielder is the leader. That team goes as he goes.
The Pittsburgh Pirates may not be worth talking about. After losing 99-games last year, it's difficult to find the light at the end of the tunnel. Garrett Jones, Pedro Alverez and Andrew McCutchen could provide a reason to be optimistic for Bucks fans. Then again, the Pirates could trade them by season's end.
The Cincinnati Reds are the division's wild card. They have pitching, and that's always a force in the major's. Edinson Volquez will not be ready at the beginning of the season, but they will have Brunson Arroyo, Johnny Cueto and Aaron Harang. The Reds also acquired Aroldis Chapman from Cuba. He probably won't appear on the opening day roster, but look for him to debut in 2010. Their pitching could keep the Reds' season alive.
Carlos Lee had a decent season in 2009, but it wasn't good enough. Lance Berkman isn't nearly as good as he use to be, but Michael Bourn is better than advertised and Hunter Pence is solid. That's the best way to sum-up the Houston Astros. They are just unpredictable in too many ways.
The biggest problem with the Astros was their bullpen. For example, Roy Oswalt had 30 starts, a 4.12 earn run average in 181 innings, yet he only had 14 decisions (8-6). Wandy Rodriquez had a 3.02 era and 23 quality starts, but still managed to have 12 losses. They will have to get better production from pitchers in innings six through eight for them to contend. Don't expect them to do that.
The St. Louis Cardinals are still the class of the National League Central. Albert Pujols will lead that team, again to the post-season with a full season from Matt Holliday, this team could run away with the division title. The only thing that could derail them is the distraction caused by the return of Mark McGwire, but that won't happen. Pujols is too strong for that.
On the bump, Adam Wainwright is coming off of a 19-win season and at 28-years old, looks like he's just really coming into his own. Chris Carpenter is, well Chris Carpenter and you can look for him improve on his 17-wins after missing some time last season. The Cardinals will not get eliminated in the first-round. Look for them to push the Phillies for the National League Championship.
Rob Long
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How You Like Me Now?
 Say the name Greivis Vasquez and it will spark many different emotions. Many Terp fans will roll their eyes with frustration over a player who has been out of control during his time in College Park. Some would defend him and point to the lack of support he's had until this, his senior season.
Either way you look at it, Greivis Vasquez is now in a class all by himself. His most recent milestone reveals exactly what Vasquez has meant to the Maryland Terps and the role he's played. He's been Mr. Everything for Gary Williams and the fact that he's now the first player in Atlantic Coast Conference basketball history to score 2,000 points, while having both 700 assists and 600 rebounds supports that.
Maybe those numbers will finally give Vasquez the respect that he deserves, or maybe not. Maybe those numbers will finally point to Gary Williams as being a fine developer of players. That was something else he was criticized about, even after the job he did with Juan Dixon. Many felt the former assistants were more responsible for Dixon. Now, with the maturation of Vasquez, maybe Gary can get a little love.
The question still remains, where does Greivis Vasquez rank on the list of Terp all-time greats? He has meant as much, if not more, to his teams than anyone who's ever put on a Maryland basketball uniform. So, where is he? Is he ahead of Dixon? Is he just behind Len Bias? Do you look at him as a great Terp point guard or a shooting guard?
That's the greatness of Greivis Vasquez. You don't look at him with a position. He's done it all, and his career numbers have reflected that. His numbers say he's been a scorer, a distributor, and a hustler in terms of getting to the boards. So, is he a top five all-time Terp?
Rob Long
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You Ain't Seen Nothing Yet
 I've been talking about my proposed line-up for the Baltimore Orioles for a couple of weeks now. One of the things I've had to defend was batting Matt Wieters clean-up. "Why would you want to but such a young player in the middle of the order?"
If the line-up goes as I would like it to go, Wieters will have Brian Roberts, Miguel Tejada, and Nick Markakis in front of him and another All-Star in Adam Jones batting behind him. That's more production than a lot of hitter with Wieters' limited experience will have surrounding them.
Secondly, Wieters is going to be special, and I don't think Orioles' fans will have to wait long to see how special he is. This will be a huge year for the second year player. With the O's acquiring Kevin Millwood, and Jeremy Guthrie not pitching in the World Baseball Classic, the young signal caller will not have as many "green" hurlers to deal with.
In addition to adding a veteran, he'll have other pitchers who've already made their Major League debuts. Not like last year, when it seemed the team had at least one picher making a debut every month.
Wieters will have more time to focus on himself. Matt had a very good second half in 2009, and he will pick up where he left off. Look for him to have a .290 season with 20 homers and 80 runs batted in. He is the real deal.
Rob Long
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Man-Up Tiger
 Look, I'm going to make this short and sweet. I don't give a care about what Tiger Woods does outside of the golf course. Tiger Woods did not lie to me, he lied to his wife, so he owe her an apology. If Tiger Woods took performance enhancing drugs, he owes me an apology because he cheated the game.
If I were heart broken over this, than maybe I should check my own values. Maybe I'm investing too much into a man whom I don't know. Just because I've watched him since his days at Stanford doesn't mean I know him. It simply means I'm familiar with his golf career.
Tiger Woods doesn't need to have this silly press conference today. It's about his family, not us. The media has created this thought that because he's made a lot of money, he owe us something in return. He made his money playing golf, not be an evangelist. Therefore, as long as he gives us his all as a golfer, he's repaying us. He's giving us our money's worth. The rest should be done in the privacy of his own home.
Rob Long
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Duke Lacrosse Accuser Charged
 The name Crystal Mangum may not sound familiar to most people. However, when someone brings up the incident when a Durham woman accused several Duke lacrosse players of rape, you'll remember that.
The entire national turned to the small North Carolina area four years ago as Mangum's accusations caused lots of racial tension and brought an entire lacrosse program to its knees. Later, it was discovered that the entire incident was fabricated. It almost seemed too little, too late as those young men's lives were changed.
On Wednesday, Mangum was charged with first-degree attempted murder as she assaulted her boyfriend on fire. She was also charged with five counts of arson for setting the man's clothes on fire, assault and battery, communicating threats, three counts of misdemeanor child abuse, injury to personal property, identity theft and resisting a public officer.
Her bond is $1 million and she is scheduled to appear in court on February 22nd.
Rob Long
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National League East Preview
 The National League East is a very interesting division. It's a division that was dominated by the Atlanta Braves for so long in the regular season, but teams like the Florida Marlins and Philadelphia Phillies have walked away with World Series titles.
The New York Mets have been the team that's probably made the biggest splashes. They've bought some players in efforts to win the division, but have constantly come up short. Players like Carlos Beltran, Carlos Delgado, Johan Santana, and Luis Castillo have not delivered the goods. Home grown talent like David Wright has watched his offensive production slip in the Mets' new home stadium.
This year, the Mets tried their hand at another big off-season acquisition. This time, they signed Jason Bay away from the Boston Red Sox to help bolster their, sometimes, anemic offense. Don't look for it to work. The Mets just aren't good enough or deep enough to upstage the Phillies. They'll win about 85-games, but that won't be enough.
The Florida Marlins are the big unknown, as always. Arms such as Josh Johnson and Ricky Nolasco are returning with another year's experience behind their young arms. Nolasco and Chris Volstad need to work on keeping the ball down in the strike zone to improve on the 52 homeruns that they combined to give up.
The big question on this team is the Marlins' offense. Hanley Ramirez is the real deal and Chris Coghlan has been a great addition. Dan Uggla is a playing that the Marlins have reportedly shopped around but his low average and high strike out total made it difficult for the club to move him. Cody Ross, Jorge Cantu and Emilio Bonifacio are the keys in 2010. If they can continue to produce, look for the Marlins to put pressure on the teams at the top of the division.
The Washington Nationals signed Chien-Ming Wang last week. If they had signed him three-years ago, that would have been a great acquisition, but today no one knows. When the best story is a player you just drafted in 2009, you are a bad team. Don't look for any surprises in D.C.
The Atlanta Braves are a team to look out for in 2010. It's not all about Chipper Jones in Hotlanta anymore. Players like Brian McCann and Yunel Escobar have given the Braves a jolt offensively. Troy Glaus and Melky Cabrera could add some stability while rookie Jason Heyward looks to impress in Spring Training.
The Braves could have extra motivation with this being Bobby Cox's final year, but it takes more than emotion to win in baseball. Pitching helps and they need Tim Hudson and Jair Jurrjens to stay healthy to contend. The Atlanta Braves will put themselves in position to make a run to return to post-season play, but the bullpen will be the difference in a 83-win season and an 89-win season.
The Philadelphia Phillies are the class of the National League, still. They will win the East and win it by a good margin. They are better from one to eight in the line-up than everyone else in the division, and their starting rotation is as good as anybody's with the addition of Roy Halladay.
Cole Hamels celebrated a very successful 2008 post-season, too much, and he struggled in 2009. Their are lessons for a 25-year old to learn and Hamels learned his. There's no doubt he got back to what made him a number one starter in the off-season. Look for him to return to that form and if he does, the Phillies could run away with the National League.
The one weakness for the Phillies is the bullpen. If the struggles of '09 continue, this team could have some slumps. The pen could be the difference in a 95-win team and a 100-win team. Either way, their problems will not cost the team a shot at the National League Championship.
Rob Long
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Reserving Judgement
 I was determined to sit back and wait for the initial "knee-jerk" reaction to pass before I wrote something about the Baltimore Ravens signing Donte' Stallworth. I had plenty to say, but I wanted to think about it first, so I would not have to take anything back.
Many of you think I'm going to bring up the manslaughter charge, but I'm not. I spoke with Ravens President Dick Cass a couple of weeks ago about character, and I came away with the impression that Stallworth's character was less of an issue than others. Stallworth's situation, was unacceptable, but it was one dumb act. Stallworth doesn't have a "laundry list" of problems that pile up. While his mistake took a life, the judicial system and the family of the victim decided on a minimal sentence and a financial settlement in the case.
I want to talk about what is important to Baltimore Ravens fans, and that is whether or not this man can improve the team's passing game.
Stallworth was a first-round draft pick for the New Orleans Saints in 2002. He played in 13-games that year and caught 42 passes for over 14-yards per reception. He missed five-games the next year and only caught 25 passes but averaged over 19-yards per reception.
Stallworth then went on to enjoy his best years the next two seasons. It was no coincidence Stallworth played all 16-games those two seasons as well. Donte' caught 128 passes for over 1,300-yards and 12 touchdowns in the two years combined. In the three-years following that, Stallworth had only caught 101 passes with nine touchdowns. He only had one season in that time where he played 16-games and he missed the entire 2009 season.
Those are the issues that concern me with Donte' Stallworth. I'm not sure who Stallworth replaces. Where does Stallworth provide an upgrade other than Demetrius Williams? Is he better than Mark Clayton? I'm not certain about that.
Look, if Stallworth ends up being the team's number two guy, I'm not sure if that makes the offense much better. If he is the third guy, I believe the offense will be a lot better. If he's "the guy," I think the Ravens could be in trouble. That's why I'm waiting to grade this move. He could be only a small piece to what the Baltimore Ravens do in the off-season.
Rob Long
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American League West Preview
 Seattle Mariners' Ace Felix Hernandez
Less than a decade ago, Billy Beane's "Money Ball" philosophy was something that swept through baseball as the next great thing. The book on his approach became the bible that many referred to when trying to solve baseball's growing economic problems.
"Money Ball" was something that had holes because it did not produce championships. Beane got into the post-season in a division that did not feature two monsters like Boston and New York. His division was, and still is, pretty competitive.
In the meantime, Beane's Oakland A's have gone from being one of the better teams in the American League West, to a potential cellar dweller. Oakland has seen the Texas Rangers pass them with an impressive offensive line-up and a growing pitching staff. You can expect Oakland to finish last in the West again in 2010.
Meanwhile, the Texas Rangers young arms like Scott Feldman and the continued development of Derek Holland and Tommy Hunter will add to the bats of Ian Kinsler, Elvis Andrus, and perennial All-Star Michael Young. Look for the Rangers to contend for most of the season, but until it's proven that pitching can hold out in Arlington, Texas, don't believe it can happen.
The Seattle Mariners may have done more to improve their team than anyone else in the American League. By adding Cliff Lee and re-signing Erik Bedard to go along with ace Felix Hernandez, the Mariners may have a rotation that rivals the Boston Red Sox.
The Mariners have one of the best players in the game with Ichiro at the top of the order. Seattle lost Adrian Beltre, but replaced him with Chone Figgins. Jose Lopez looks to add to his offensive totals of '09 while Milton Bradley and Franklin Gutierrez look to provide stability. The Mariners are my pick to win the West.
Last year's division champions, the Los Angeles Angels lost highly publicized free-agent John Lackey, but still have 16-game winners Jered Weaver and Joe Saunders. And yes, they have an infield that stayed put, for the most part, but the unknown is what Figgins' replacement will do.
Torii Hunter, Bobby Abreu and Hideki Matsui are all 34 and older and that could be a problem. They are all capable of carrying a team at one time or another, or all carry them together. 162-games is a lot of baseball, and Seattle might be more capable of a strong finish. The Angels will contend for the post-season, but it will have to be a wild card if they are to play in October.
Rob Long
Look for the National League East preview Thursday.
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NBA Rumor Mill
 There is so much talk about the LeBrons landing Amare Stoudemire, and what it would do for the Cleveland Cavaliers' chances of winning the NBA Championship, I'm beginning to believe that you all think it would be a foregone conclusion.
You must have fallen and bumped your head, or your hatred for the Los Angeles Lakers is so bad that it causes you to be blind to what is really going on.
The NBA Championship Series is the best of seven games. I know, you are stoked because the Cavs beat the Lakers twice in the regular season. It excites you in ways that we really shouldn't discuss. Because the Cavs were able to beat the Lakers twice in the regular season, there is no way they would lose to them in a best of seven series. Right?
Adding Amare Stoudemire to the Cleveland Caveliers would make them a force to deal with in the post-season, but that's about all it would do. Adding Stoudemire would not even make the Cavs a sure bet to win the Eastern Conference. Until a healthy Boston Celtics team is eliminated from the play-offs, they are the best team in the East.
I don't care if they are the third or fourth seed, they have the veteran leadership and depth to beat anyone in seven games, again, if healthy. I include the Lakers when I make that statement. It seems the Association and the media are just waiting to crown the LeBron James led Cavaliers the best.
Until James actually wins a title, he's not a champion. He may play like one, but he's not. You may want him to win one, but he's hasn't. You may feel that if the Cavs add a star like Stoudemire, it would keep LeBron in Cleveland, but maybe it won't.
Please, stop it. The Los Angeles Lakers are a better play-off team than everyone except the Celtics. Until someone knocks these two teams out, it's the Celtics' and Lakers' world, and everyone else is just living in it.
Rob Long
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Nuggets Coach Fighting Cancer, Again
 Denver Nuggets coach George Karl informed his team on Tuesday that he is in another battle with cancer.
Karl, who won a simular fight with prostate cancer in July 2005, found out a lump that he discovered on his neck about six weeks ago was a "very treatable and curable" form of neck and throat cancer.
Karl added, "Cancer is a vicious opponent." His treatment will consist of 35 sessions over the next six weeks.
Rob Long
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American League Central Preview
 Minnesota Twins' Justin Morneau
The American League Central has been one of the most competitive and entertaining divisions in baseball over the past decade. While the division doesn't post the team with the best record, or the League's Most Valuable Player, it has provided us with a few Cy Young Award winners and photo finishes in the final weekend of the regular season. Expect this division to provide much of the same during the 2010 season.
The Cleveland Indians will be in the midst of a race this season, but not a race at the top. While depending on pitchers like Jeremy Sowers (6-11; 5.25 era), Fausto Carmona (5-12; 6.23 era), and Jake Westbrook, who hasn't pitched since June, 2008, a team that recently sported two consecutive Cy Young winners could struggle mightily in that department.
To add to the potential problems on the "bump," the Indians have several position players that have to either recover from injuries, or return to the form they had when Cleveland was competitive. Look for this team to lose 90-plus games in 2010.
The Kansas City Royals are interesting. They gave the Central its third consecutive Cy Young award winner in Zack Greinke, they have to get SOMETHING from Brian Bannister, Gil Meche, or Luke Hochevar in 2010 for this team to have legitimate progress. The addition of Jason Kendall could either help the staff, or end up being another insignificant signing by the Royals.
Offensively, Kansas City lost Miguel Olivo, but expect young Billy Butler to improve on last year's totals. Butler and the addition of Rick Ankiel could provide decent productivity for the Royals. They could finish ahead of the Indians, but they are still a long way from contention in the Central.
The Detroit Tigers are the toughest team to figure out in the A.L. Central. They parted ways with Curtis Granderson, and it looks as if they did it with a plan. I'm not sure if the plan will equate to winning, but after one of the biggest choke jobs in baseball last year, it will be difficult for this team to contend with Miguel Cabrera, essentially, doing it alone.
Inspite the Adam Everett acquisition being publicized as being the deal the Tigers needed last season, his .238 batting average is a weak link. In addition, Magglio Ordonez resembles a non-productive number two hitter and Brandon Inge swings for the fences to the tune of a .230 batting average. Put that all together and the Tigers will be lucky to go .500. Very lucky.
Ozzie Guillen's will may cause improvement with the Chicago White Sox. If there is any manager in baseball who can do it, he's one of them. Mark Buehrle and Gavin Floyd will have to perform like front of the rotation starters, and they are hoping Jake Peavy can return to the form that made him one of the game's best, but the potential is there.
The questions with the White Sox are with the line-up. Can the Sox get what they could not get last season, clutch hitting? On the surface, it doesn't look as if they have done too much to help that, and they will need someone to provide the first half numbers Jermaine Dye provided. If the Sox get this, they will challenge Minnesota for the Central title. If not, the division will be a sprint against the clock for one team.
The Minnesota Twins are the class of the A.L. Central. Francisco Liriano was once counted on to be the next ace of the staff, but that hasn't happened. Scott Baker did happen. He has stepped up to eat innings and win games. Carl Pavano has added a veteran presence since coming over from Cleveland.
The pitching isn't the only bright spot for the Twins. Joe Mauer has become one of the best players in the game. Last year's effort was not his peak performance. Look for him to continue to assault the American League.
Former M.V.P. Justin Morneau only played 135 games, but still had 30 home runs and 100 runs batted in. If he returns to form, along with the 32 home runs and 90-plus runs batted in for Michael Cuddyer, the Twins could have the best line-up in the division. They fortified that by adding Orlando Hudson and Jim Thome. The Twins could win 90-93 in 2010.
Rob Long
Look for my American League West preview on Wednesday.
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The Wild Card
 There's been lots of talk about the expectation of the Baltimore Orioles. Most of the talk is concerning the free-agents and the young players, but there's one veteran the team is counting on to have a good season, if they want to turn things around in Birdland.
Jeremy Guthrie pitched in the World Baseball Classic prior to the 2009 season. If there has been any position that's suffered from the previous two WBC tournaments, it's been the pitchers involved. 2009 saw Guthrie get off to a slow start and never fully recovered until August. Guthrie gave up 35 long balls and 26 of those came in the first four-months of the season. The veteran right hander only gave up nine more the rest of the way.
Guthrie's a fly ball pitcher by nature, so his control is essential for him to be successful. If he's even slightly off, or not hitting his spots, he's vulnerable to long flies that usually land on the wrong side of the fense.
Guthrie does not have the WBC to blame this year. He doesn't have the pressure of being out of position as the number one starter either. Guthrie will probably be the number two man, but when it's all said and done, he'll be the third best pitcher in this rotation. If things go really well, he could be number four. That's where he should be. If Jeremy Guthrie is better than the number three man in any rotation, it isn't a very good rotation.
Rob Long
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The Mis-Education Of A Generation
 I was away with Mrs. Long for the weekend, so I had to sit on some feelings that I had toward the Frank Thomas, Hall of Fame debate. I'm glad I did now, because it’s allowed me to really examine my thoughts about the "Big Hurt."
I'm not going to use this time to prove that Thomas played the majority of his most productive years as a fielder. Those are stats you can find on your own. You don't need me to do that for you. This is, yet another, negative contribution that fantasy sports has given us. Yes, fantasy sports. I know, you don’t get it. With Thomas' 521 homers and his .301 career batting average, fantasy lovers should love him. But that’s what fantasy sports does. It causes us to ignore the obvious and look for the obscure. For instance, I talked with someone about Frank Thomas' career on base average and impressive slugging percentage, and he proceeded to rave about his OPS. Well, if your on base average and your slugging are good, that is your OPS. It’s almost as if this number is some arbitrary stat that was invented for something to tell us that we did not know. OPS stands for on base plus slugging. You don't even need the stat, but that’s what we do. We make up stats to try to prove if someone is "worthy." How about allowing those of us who actually watched these guys determine if they are "Hall worthy" or not? How is a closer worthy, yet Frank Thomas draws a debate? Again, this is an example of his digging for stats to say why Bruce Sutter belongs in Cooperstown and Frank Thomas doesn’t. Are you kidding me? Closers are judged on what they do for one inning, and the greats are given extra points for actually pitching two innings. I watch the games, and I've seen these guys pile up stats by coming into a three-run game in the ninth inning with no one on base. If you can't get three outs there, you shouldn't be on the roster. Yet, we're debating Frank Thomas. I've watched, and listened to how meaningless stats saturate sports. Stats should not define a player. They should validate their on the field accomplishments. I don't know Roberto Alamar's career numbers, because I don't need to. He should be in the Hall of Fame. I know Mark McGwire's numbers, because they've been thrown at me constantly to try to make him one of baseball's immortals. I watched him and he's not. If you have to either think about whether or not Frank Thomas is worthy of going to Cooperstown, my question is, "What were you watching?" Thomas was a rare breed of power, patience, and skill. While McGwire never one an MVP award, Thomas won two, and finished in the top 10 seven consecutive years from 1991- 97. That says he was consistently among the American League’s elite.
Rob Long
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MLB Preview
 It's baseball season, and for me, it couldn't have come at a better time. This is the best time of the year. You have March Madness, beginning of baseball season, and Wrestle Mania. Yeah, I said it.
As you get ready for the baseball season, you have to think about some of the things you expect to see. I'm not just talking about the things you will see in Baltimore with the Orioles. I'm looking at MLB as a whole.
Here's my look at the season from each division's standpoint:
American League East
The New York Yankees are still the best team in the League, as far as we know. I have to admit, I have my doubts about the Yankees. Johnny Damon is no longer a great player, if he ever was, but I'm not sure if Curtis Granderson can produce the numbers Damon did last year. Not only that, but World Series MVP Hideki Matsui moved on as well. That's a lot to overcome, in one year, for one team.
The Boston Red Sox are potentially a third place team. Now, they have one of the better minor league organizations in the game, and could parlay that into some bats down the stretch. Mike Cameron is NOT going to be an adequate replacement for the departing Jason Bay, and their defense could take a hit with the older Cameron playing center field instead of the, sometimes shaky, Jacoby Ellsbury.
I get it, Boston may have the best pitching, from top to bottom, in baseball, but that's what we heard last year too, and they finished in second in the East. Their line-up is not what it was last year, and they will not be as good.
The team to look out for in the first half will be the Tampa Bay Rays. They can really do well before the All-Star break, but if they don't extend their better players, they could end up trading their way out of contention. It all depends on their place in the standings.
The most improved team will be the Baltimore Orioles, while the team that has the biggest fall will be the Toronto Blue Jays. Look for them to lose 12-15 games in the win column. Look for the O's to do the opposite.
Rob Long
The American League Central preview on Tuesday.
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Something Magic Happens
I was asked several times after Thursday's show if the snow and lack of sleep over the previous 48 hours had effected me. If you weren't around, I made the bold prediction that the Baltimore Orioles would be a .500 team in 2010.
Now, before you call me a homer, or some other inappropriate name, I haven't predicted .500 for the O's since 2001. It took me that long for the misery of this franchise to sink in after the amazing two-year run of the mid-90's. Once I got it, I got it.
I've said over and over, that when teams fall off, having fewer wins from one year to another, someone has to get those wins. The American League East has three teams that will not win as many games as they did in 2009. I believe the Orioles will get some of those wins.
First, the New York Yankees will still contend for the American League Championship, but they won't do it following a 103-win regular season. They'll win close to 93-95 games, but still win the AL East. Those wins will go to someone.
Next, I know the Boston Red Sox have great pitching. They may have the ability to go six-deep in their rotation, but isn't that what we said in '09? While that won them 95-games, their line-up was a little better than it will be in 2010. You can't replace Jason Bay with Mike Cameron and tell me everything is going to be fine. If they don't make a move, they will lose three to five games in the win total, and injuries could make it even worse. Someone has to take those wins.
Finally, the Toronto Blue Jays are horrible. They were never that good, but they had pitching. They've lost their ace and have nothing that resembles replacing him. They won 75-games in 2009, and look closer to the O's '09 total of 64. That's 10-11 games. Someone has to get those wins.
I do realize what I'm saying. The Orioles would have to make a 17-game improvement from last season. I'm also counting that they have pulled closer to teams like Detroit, and Chicago, Cleveland and Oakland are going to drop a few games in the standings as well. You either get better or not. The Orioles have gotten better.
Rob Long
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USA Men's Basketball
 The roster for the USA Olympic basketball team is coming into focus and it includes some familiar faces. Returning to the team is Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, Dwyane Wade, Carmelo Anthony and others. But the story is who will not join the team in London.
Reportedly, Andrew Bynum and Rajon Rondo declined to be a part of the process. How do you get a call to be a part of the Olympics and turn it down? It's the Olympics.
Rounding out the rosters is Chris Bosh, Chris Paul, Dwight Howard, Deron Williams, Carlos Boozer, and Lamar Odom.
Rob Long
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A House Of Cards?
 Less than a week after the Super Bowl, the celebration of the city of New Orleans is countered by the blame game in the city of Indianapolis.
We've sort of seen this before. After a play-off loss in 2005, Peyton Manning stood at the podium and said the Colts had protection issues. We all gave Manning a pass. We brushed it off as him being ultra competitive. There didn't seem to be a backlash from his team, so let's just let it die. Now, the finger pointing continues as the Colts recover from a Super Bowl loss that saw Manning throw an interception that, for the most part, put the game away and gave the Saints their first Super Bowl victory. This time, it isn't Manning passing the blame, it's team president Bill Polian. "Our offensive line, by our standards, did not have a good game," Polian told NFL.com. "They were outplayed by the Saints' defensive line. Our special teams, in terms of handing the ball -- both in the return game and on the onside kick -- were outplayed by the Saints. Therein lies the result. It had nothing to do with strategy or preparedness or toughness or effort."
What Polian does, if anything, remains to be seen, but he was very specific in his critisicm of the lack of execution of his team.
"There were certain situations throughout the game where we didn't execute -- most notably, the failure to get the first down and run the clock out at the end of the first half after a magnificent goal-line stand and then, of course, the failure to handle the onside kick," Polian told NFL.com. "We had four things we could have done positively on that play. We didn't do any of them. That absolutely changed the game. It went from our getting the ball on their 40-yard line to having them march down for a touchdown. Then, our inability to punch it in from first-and-goal on the 3. Those situations, we did not execute."
Rob Long
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My Final Four Forecast
 By now, you know that I like the Kansas Jayhawks in the Final Four. In fact, I like them to win the entire thing. I don't have to go over that again. I just believe this team is built, from top to bottom, better than everyone else.
The Kentucky Wildcats are one of the teams that everyone loves as a Final Four team. I'm not so sure about that. John Wall is an exceptional talent, but he doesn't quite do what a point guard needs to do to get his team deep into the tournament.
If you look at Wall, who had another double-double on Tuesday, he doesn't get his team involved in the big games. Tuesday was is third double-double on the season. This one was double digits and points and rebounds. Wall hasn't reached that statistical level in assists since late-November against UNC-Ashville. He had double-digit assists against Hartford, but only scored nine points. Wall's best assist games have been against the lower level teams on the schedule.
Wall seems to depend on his own abilities too much in big games. That's how South Carolina was able to beat Kentucky. He turns the game to one on one challenges, which is fine for him, but he leaves his teammates to do the same. In Tuesday night's 66-55 win against Alabama, Kentucky only had 10 assists, but 16 turnovers. Teams with great point guard play don't play that way.
Along with Kansas getting to the Final Four, I like Villanova getting there as well. Strange, but I was not sure about that happening until after the Georgetown loss. Scottie Reynolds showed me what he was made of when he led his team to a road win against West Virginia to rebound from that Georgetown embarrassment. That's was guard leadership, especially from a senior, does for you.
Tom Izzo and the Michigan State Spartans will make their annual trip to the Final Four. It seems that way at least. He just consistantly puts one of the toughest teams in the country out on the floor. That's what it takes to win in March. The Spartans are also a favor to go far because they have Kalin Lucas, and he's a tournament-type guard.
There are a few teams I'm eyeing for that last slot and Syracuse isn't one of them. I think a team like Kansas State or Purdue could fall into that spot. I could even see Wisconsin or Georgetown surprising everyone and getting to the Final Four. It will not be four of the top five teams in the polls. It will not be the top four seeds this year either.
As far as Maryland goes, they are a Sweet 16 team this year, if they stay healthy. They have seniors who aren't going home early. Also, Gary Williams is one of the best coaches in the country, and this is a Gary Williams team.
Rob Long
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Front And Center
 Okay, I know the NFL Draft is going to come into focus really soon. The combine will dominate the NFL Network, and that doesn't disappoint me at all. I'm a draft geek, and I have way too much information in my head about obscure college football players that may or may not even get drafted, but that's not my point right now.
The college basketball season has waited, patiently, for the end of the NFL season, and now it's time for the NCAA to make the headlines. There are so many stories in men's basketball, including the Maryland Terps 6-2 Atlantic Coast Conference start. Gary Williams seems to have a team that he "connects" with this year with so many contributing seniors as well as an outstanding freshman in Jordan Williams. I believe the Terps, if they stay focus, can do big things in this conference this year.
The national story has to be the Kansas Jayhawks. Bill Self, who's two-years removed from the National Championship, has his team playing great basketball right now. They are clearly the best team in the Big 12, and I believe they are the best team in the country when it's all said and done. What they did to Texas Monday night surprised some, but Texas has always started hot, but step into reality in February and March.
The Big East is clearly the best conference in America, again. Some say this conference is too crowded, but that's what makes it so great. The fact that there are so many good teams, and that you can never take a night off, makes this conference worth watching. From Villanova, to Georgetown, West Virginia, Syracuse and on and on. The Big East will occupy at least three of the final eight teams in the NCAA Tournament.
Locally, how could you not love what Todd Bozeman and the Morgan State Bears are doing now? They are 18-7 and 10-0 in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference. After their second weather induced, back-to-back game situation in two weeks, the Bears fought through a tough battle on Monday night to score the win and remain undefeated in the conference. Coach Bozeman has put his signature on this program and made Morgan State matter again in Baltimore and the MEAC.
Rob Long
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Congratulations
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I've been fortunate to be able to surround myself with some very talented young people. I believe young people challenge you to think outside the box and to stay fresh with your ideas. From Phil "Super Producer" Backert (24) and roblongshow.com contributor John Dame (18).
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Many of you may have read John's work on our website, and did not realize he was still a student at St. Paul's School for Boys. Dame is also responsible for a lot of the work that's done with the radio station on his high school campus as well. I've watched him work, putting together an impressive guest list for the station. Everything the young man does has his energy.
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Recently, we found out that John Dame was accepted, and will attend, Tufts University in Boston in the fall. I've had the honor of being with him throughout this tiring process, and it's good to see him get into one of the schools he coveted the most.
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Take a look at John's work as you join me in celebrated this accomplishment for him and his family. Mr. and Mrs. Dame, along with St. Pauls has to be extremely proud of this young man.
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Rob Long
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Still At The Front Of The Class
 Sports has a way or sorting out debates all by themselves. You and I can have our own opinions, but at the end of the day, it's really going to be determined on the field.
For weeks, I've been battling myself over who's the best quarterback of my lifetime. I've been one of the biggest Joe Montana fans around since I was 10, and it's really been difficult for me to put Peyton Manning ahead of him, but Manning has done things that has made me question my own beliefs.
On Sunday night, I watched Manning put Montana in his rightful place. Peyton Manning, who is still the second best quarterback I've ever seen, did things that Montana would have never done. There's no debate, "Joe Cool" has been in those situations over and over and twice against the Bengals in the Super Bowl, and he's won both times.
For years, we've said that the Colts' offense is Manning's offense, yet Jim Caldwell takes the blame for bad clock management at the end of the first half. That goes to Manning, not Caldwell. There's no way you give Manning credit when things go right, but Caldwell blame when things go bad.
The interception that got returned for a touchdown was not the first mistake Manning made on that drive. He threw another bad out route to Reggie Wayne, but he escaped when the pass was dropped by the Saints defender. Manning looked, at times, out of character, during that drive.
While the Colts got into the red zone again on the final drive, Manning looked confused on the final two plays, and nearly threw another interception.
Again, Peyton Manning is one of the greatest quarterbacks who ever played the game, but he's not the greatest. Others have been in that situation time and time again, and have succeeded. The greats like Montana, Troy Aikman, and Terry Bradshaw. Manning might be better than the last two, but when it mattered, he wasn't.
There was a legacy on the line Sunday night, and if Peyton Manning doesn't get back to the "Big Game," you have to wonder what his will be. There's still one of his peers who've won more Super Bowls than Manning. That's what sports does. It sorts all of those things out. Just like it will sort out Mannings legacy. Just like it wouldn't allow Jim Caldwell to be among the coaching greats.
Rob Long
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Super Bowl Prediction
 Morgan State Alum Chad Simpson
There are probably two reasons why there hasn't been a lot of Super Bowl talk around here. Reason number one is that the Baltimore Ravens aren't in the Super Bowl, and that bores a lot of Ravens fans. Reason number two is that the Indianpolis Colts are involved, and a lot of Ravens fans hate Indy for obvious reasons.
However, I'm very interested and excited about the Super Bowl. This is, not only, a match-up that features two of the best quarterbacks in the National Football League, it's also a game that feature two very opportunistic defenses.
Indy has Peyton Manning, but if he was the only player on this team, they would be home watching this game. Reggie Wayne is starting to become one of the more underappreciated superstars in the NFL. He constantly puts up numbers and makes big plays for number 18. His presence will put pressure on the New Orleans Saints as they have to account for him on every play that he's on the field.
That pressure opens up things for Austin Collie and Pierre Garcon. You've heard so much about those guys because Wayne is on the field and has been healthy. I go back to the regular-season game in Jacksonville when the Jaguars forced Manning to "nickel and dime" their way for three and a half quarters.
Finally, Wayne was able to get by the underneath coverage to get a long touchdown pass from Manning. That's the Reggie Wayne effect. Just when you think you've shut him down, he beats you for a game-breaker.
The Saints have a big-play team as well. It seems as if Reggie Bush is the talk of the town now that he had a great play-off game against the Cardinals, but for me, he's still Reggie Bush. He may show up, he may not show up. I put no faith in Bush. Yeah, I said that.
If the New Orleans Saints are going to beat the Colts, they will have to win a shootout. They will have to rely on the man who truly got them here and that's Drew Brees. Don't get too cute and try to out thing Indy by running the ball more than you usually run it. Exploit their secondary and injured pass rush and put Indy on its heels.
Peyton Manning isn't going to give the Saints' defense opportunities to get turnovers like they're use to. Manning isn't goint to give the Saints too many short fields to work with.
This will be a good game, for the first half. The Indianapolis Colts are, clearly, a better team than the New Orlean Saints. They are playing better football in all three phases of the game as well. They will roll the Saints in the second half to put this one away. Look for them to get big plays early in the third.
Indy 31, Saints 17
Rob Long
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A Lockout Is Imminent
 Fans who feared an NFL lockout for 2011 have every reason to. The DeMaurice Smith, Executive Director of the NFL's Playery's Association was quoted in saying, "On a scale of 1to10, it's a 14," when asked about the possibility of a work stoppage.
Smith added, "I keep coming back to an economic model in America that is unparalleled." Smith pulled no punches as he said, "And that makes it incredibly difficult to then come to players and say, on average, each of you needs to take a $340,000 pay cut to save the National Football League. Tough sell. Tough sell."
In the department of "Getting Something for nothing, Smith said the NFL would still receive $5 billion for its television deal whether games are played or not. Smith asked, "Has any one of the prior deals included $5 billion to not play football?" He immediately replied, "The answer's no."
"I really and truly in my heart believe we'll get a deal done," NFLPA president Kevin Mawae said. "But there's going to have to be some give and some take and not just taking from one side all the way."
Looks like fans should savour the flavor of the 2010 NFL season. It may be awhile before they see pro football after next year's Super Bowl.
Rob Long
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Man In The Mirror
 During Wednesday's press conference, the discussion of the Pro Football Hall Of Fame came up. The question was directed toward Ozzie Newsome, asking if there was a "movement" to keep Art Modell out of Canton.
Newsome talked about the efforts of the Cleveland media to keep Mr. Modell out, yet he gets calls from former Cleveland players asking what can be done to get Mr. Modell into the Hall.
One of the things Ozzie brought up was the responsibility of the local media. He mentioned the fact that many of the Hall of Fame voters were present for the Ravens/Patriots play-off game. Newsome talked about us, the local media, doing our part by discussing this with those voters the need to get Art Modell into pro football's Hall of Fame.
While I'm one who feels Art Modell should be in Canton, I'm not really sure it's my job to campaign for that. I know some have used self-serving antics to fight the good fight for Mr. Modell, but is that really what I'm suppose to do, as a member of the media? I really don't know.
For instance, if I see John Clayton at a Ravens game, and I ask him whether or not Art Modell should be in the Hall and he says no and gives a well-thought out reason why, is it, then, my job to convince John Clayton why he needs to change his vote? I think not.
Now, if the only reason is because he moved his team from Cleveland to Baltimore, I would have a very good argument. I use Clayton because I have a very good idea where he stands on this topic, but that's the slippery slope.
What if the voters tell me it's none of my business? I'm not sure that I would want to openly discuss my votes in public. I think it goes back to what Ozzie Newsome originally said at the press conference. I think it's up to the men who actually played and worked for Art Modell to beat that drum. They know things about the man that the media does not know. While we all know his professional resume, they are able to give personal references. That, in my opinion, is where the resposibility lies.
If I had a vote, without question, Art Model would get it. I'm just not sure that I should be a campaign manager for getting him into the Hall of Fame.
Rob Long
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Super Bowl Party
We've been asked several times, and even though we've read it on air, it's only right to put the Super Bowl plans on our growing website. Join me and the Coors Light Ladies at Miguel's in South Baltimore. Go to www.miguelsbaltimore.com for more details.
Rob Long
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The Evil Empire?
 By now, you know the drama that exists with Kentucky basketball freshman John Wall and his coach, John Calipari. If not, let me fill you in. Wall became very frustrated with his play lately and that caused him to have a "freshman" moment. He lashed out at his coach by saying, “I didn't think I played that bad. I don’t know what to expect. [Calipari]'s probably going to say I played bad today, too. I just try not to listen to him and go out and play basketball and try and help my team win.”
Wall was a typical freshman who's never been openly criticized. He has been "the man" at every stop and struggling was clearly new to him. He handled it like most 18-year old teenagers would handle it.
Apparently, someone got to Wall and put him on the right path. Maybe it was one of the two first-round draft pick point guards who played for Calipari the last two years (Derrick Rose and Tyreke Evans). Maybe it was one of his current teammates who reminded him that it was a long season and the goal was to win championships. Maybe it was an AAU or high school coach who provided the youngster good counsel. Either way, Wall went into Calipari's office in an attempt to right his wrong.
Calipari, proving why he's so successful, treated it as he should have. He shrugged it off and proceded with his season. It's a learning tool.
The problem is how ESPN treated the situation. Now, I'm not going to be a typical media member who doesn't have a job with ESPN and beat them up. I'm a fan of the network and believe that the majority of what they've done for sports has been great. I recognize that they've opened up doors that have provided jobs for many of us, but I also believe that they miss the boat on a lot as well.
After Kentucky's 85-75 win over Ole' Miss, Wall was interviewed by Jeannine Edwards. Wall talked about regaining focus and his team being big headed about their early accomplishments. The freshman seemed sincere and quite humble. What Edwards did has to make Coach Calipari scream. She told an 18-year old who had just admitted his struggles with humility that "21 NBA scouts" were in the stands watching the game. Again, I'm not jumping on Edwards either. She's one of my favorites.
While it isn't ESPN's job to nurture student-athletes, it shouldn't be there goal to distract them either. Maybe he's an athlete who would have bypassed the college game if not for the current rules. What if he faces another "issue" before the end of the season? He may think, "I don't have to deal with this. ESPN told me there were 21 NBA scouts in the stands to see me." Again, we're talking about a teenager. Someone at ESPN may agree with me because the post-game interview is nowhere to be found. Moments like this is what makes viewers look at ESPN as "The Evil Empire."
Rob Long
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Julius Peppers
 Julius Peppers is going to be a free-agent this off-season. If the Carolina Panthers elect to "tag" him, it would cost them about $20 million. They could always "tag" him to buy more time to sign him, but if that doesn't work, they will have a disgruntled superstar, and it would also make it nearly impossible to trade that salary.
Peppers has been public about wanting to move on to new challenges. His abilities are legitimately among the very best in the NFL and at 29, he still has a few years left in his tank to still dominate.
The Baltimore Ravens are at a crossroads on the defensive side of the ball. Ed Reed is considering retirement, Ray Lewis is getting older, and Haloti Ngata is playing out of position. Julius Peppers could be exactly what the Ravens need for their defense.
Rob Long
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GO TIM TEBOW
 The 2010 NFL Draft will go down in history as the draft that officially changed how college quarterbacks will be evaluated. Why do I say that? Tim Tebow.
Tim Tebow represents something that hasn’t been seen in recent draft history. He is a mainstream white quarterback who’s skills are intriguing enough to question whether or not he’s a quarterback, or another position. Yes, we know who Eric Crouch is. He won the Heisman Trophy, just like Tebow did, but he didn’t have the “IT” factor that Tebow has. He tried to convince the NFL world that he was a professional quarterback, and no one was buying it. When Matt Jones came out of Arkansas, he never put up a fight. Before he played his final collegiate game, he announced to the world that he was going to play wide receiver in the National Football League. Jones had enough holes in his game, and like Crouch, there was nothing special about Jones that suggest he would break the mold of what you’d expect from a white quarterback. Come on, I’m writing it, but all of you were thinking it, and you know it. When Vince Young came out of Texas, he was dissected like an extra terrestrial. If it wasn’t his throwing angle, it was his lack of pocket presence or his Wonderlic Test scores. The perception was, everything that could go wrong for V.Y would go wrong. That seems to be the same perception for many when it comes to Tebow. It’s refreshing because many thought quarterbacks like Young and Donavan McNabb went through that type of criticism because they were African-American quarterbacks. In other words, their treatment was racist. In many ways, Tim Tebow has crushed stereotypes, racial ones though. The stereotype that remains is that quarterbacks with this skill-set cannot make it in the NFL. Some, like myself, will be pulling for Mr. Tebow this season. Face it, he can open the doors for quarterbacks that are great athletes and not prolific passers. Tebow can basically take the blinders off of NFL scouts to say, “Everyone doesn’t have to be Peyton Manning to be a quarterback in the League.” If Tebow is given a REAL chance, he’s a proven winner. He’s as much of a winner as many quarterbacks that have been overlooked were. Tebow represents those young men. He represents Pat White. All White did was lead the West Virginia Mountaineers for four-years while being a good student-athlete and being one amazing competitor. In White’s final game in Charlotte, North Carolina against the Tar Heels, he proved he could throw the football by passing for over 300-yards against Butch Davis’ defense. Bill Parcells and his staff recognized this and made White their second-round draft choice. Tim Tebow isn’t alone in this draft. If he isn’t the best athlete at the quarterback position this year, it’s because Central Michigan’s Dan LeFevour is. The 6’3” 229 pound senior passed for over 12,900 yards and 102 touchdowns while completing 66% of his passes. If LeFevour wasn’t beating you in the air, he was rushing for over 2,900 yards and 47 touchdowns on the ground. Those numbers are now becoming the new standard for many major programs, which bridges the gap for what some thought a quarterback should be. I’m not saying pocket quarterbacks are now dinosaurs. That would make me as narrow-minded as those who have held back quarterbacks just because they were also the best athletes on their teams. If defensive linemen are now running 4.5 forties, shouldn’t the signal callers become more athletic as well? During the 2008 season, Vince Young had a moment. That moment almost cost him his career. As good as Jeff Fisher is at what he does, his handling of that young man was unfair. Young used that and the death of one of his heroes, Steve McNair, as fuel for his comeback. When Young was given another chance, at the demand of the Tennessee Titans’ owner Bud Adams, he made the most of his opportunity. In the process, he again opened eyes in the NFL to what could be the future of the quarterback position. Tim Tebow, Dan LeFevour and even Armanti Edwards could help take that to another level by making Young’s talents more common. Edwards is a senior from Appalachian State. You may remember Edwards from when he led the Mountaineers into Anne Arbor to upset the fifth ranked Michigan Wolverines. Edwards and Appalachian State went on to win their second consecutive NCAA FCS championship. Although Edwards is only 5’11”, he deserves an opportunity to prove he cannot play quarterback before he’s labeled as a returner or a wide receiver. Armanti Edwards is the first player in college football history to pass for over 10,000 yards and rush for over 4,000 yards. NFL owners and front office personnel have used excuse that if they allowed their quarterbacks to run more they risk more injuries. Steve Young was a scrambler turned pocket-passer. His career ended in the pocket. Troy Aikman’s career ended in the pocket and so did Joe Theismann’s. My point is, there are no promises. The NFL has made new rules to protect the League’s most glamorous position. If there was more of a presence of athletic quarterbacks, they will protect them too. View Comments (1) - Post New Comment
Too Much Hype?
 It's only Monday and I'm already sick of the Super Bowl. It's way too much hype involved in this game. It's a match-up that really doesn't need the exposure that it gets, but for me, a football fan, way too much.
Don't get me wrong, I get it. The hype that the Super Bowl gets has nothing to do with me and other fans like me. This is for people who, as I like to say, go to sports bars to watch games. This is how the NFL has become a billion dollar industry.
But wait, I'm sick of it and media day hasn't even taken place, yet. I haven't heard the ridiculous questions that media members are going to ask some of the players. I haven't rolled my eyes at the media members who take center stage who know little to nothing about sports. I haven't puked because of the near rated "R" coverage of Peyton and Archie Manning and how they are tied in with the city of New Orleans.
Yet, I sit here, and I'm having to pace myself. I really want to enjoy the Super Bowl and this is the same time, every year, that I have to take a step away from it all so that my Super Bowl experience isn't ruined by all of the fluff that exists around this game.
Rob Long
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Let's Do It Again...
 I remember when I was a kid, my cousin took me to the Hippodrome. Back then, the Hippodrome was a movie theater that rotated about two to three movies all day. When a movie was really good, they would play that movie alone over and over again. It wasn't like these cinemas now when you went in and the ushers were there to escort you out of the building. You could sit there forever and watch the movie as many times as you wanted.
I have no idea why my mom let me go with my cousin, and maybe she didn't know, but I went to see a movie called "Let's Do It Again" with Bill Cosby and Sidney Poitier. This was like a sequel to "Up Town Saturday Night," so I'm told. Later, I saw the prequel to the sequel and that was great as well.
Well, on Thursday, on the "Rob Long Show," we put my NBA team up against the original Dream Team. The reaction by you the listeners and readers was outstanding. We decided to push the envelope again, but this time with the NFL.
We put the NFL team of the 1970's against the NFL team of the first decade of 2000. It is my opinion, as some of you are well aware, that we are living in the greatest sports era of all-time and I'm going to put last decade's team up against one of the greatest.
NFL 2000
Offense
QB - Peyton Manning
RB - LaDainian Tomlinson
FB - Lorenzo Neal
WR - Marvin Harrison and Randy Moss
TE - Tony Gonzales
OT - Jonathan Ogden and Walter Jones
OG - Steve Hutchinson and Allen Faneca
C - Kevin Mawae
Defense
DE - Jason Taylor and Michael Strahan
DT - Richard Seymour and Warren Sapp
LB - Ray Lewis, Brian Urlacher and Derrick Brooks
CB - Nnamdi Asomugha and Champ Bailey
S - Brian Dawkins and Ed Reed
Special Team
K - Adam Vinatieri
P - Shane Lechler
R - Dante Hall
As Determined By foxsports.com
NFL1970
Offense
QB - Roger Staubach
RB - OJ Simpson
RB - Walter Payton
WR - Drew Pearson and Lynn Swann
TE - Dave Casper
OT - Art Shell and Rayfield Wright
OG - Larry Little and Joe DeLamielleure
C - Jim Langer
Defense
DE - Jack Youngblood and Carl Eller
DT - Joe Green and Bob Lilly
LB - Dick Butkus, Jack Ham and Ted Hendricks
CB - Willie Brown and Jimmy Johnson
S - Ken Houston and Cliff Harris
Special Team
K - Garo Yepremian
P - Ray Guy
Ret - Rick Upchurch
As Determined By wikipedia.org
Rob Long
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Mine Versus The Dream Team
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Thursday's "Rob Long Show" was so much fun. I love to debate about things like the greatest of all time and comparing eras. To me, it's what sports is all about. If you can't compare, what do you have? Why do you keep record books if you aren't suppose to compare?
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During the discussion, I received an e-mail asking me to come up with 12-players to put them against the original Dream Team of the 1992 Olympics. I had help from Phil "The Super Producer" and our new intern, Regis from Morgan State University. Here's the team that we came up with. Feel free to comment and of course, debate:
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Rob Long Show Team
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Dwyane Wade       - Guard
Kobe Bryant          - Guard
LeBron James          - Forward
Dirk Nowitski        - Forward
Tim Duncan           - Center
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Shaquille O'Neal    - Center
Steve Nash            - Guard
Kevin Garnett        - Forward
Carmello Anthony  - Forward
Dwight Howard     - Center
Chris Paul              - Guard
Chis Bosh              - Center
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Dream Team '92
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Charles Barkley So, what do you think? Do I have a chance against all of these Hall of Famers? I think I have a better chance than many think. Come on, best of seven. Who wins this series?
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Rob Long
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Sport's Greatest Era?
 If you engage in a debate of the greatest athletes in their respective sports, you'll find that they all have one thing in common and that's the fact that they have very little in common. Example, who's the greatest football player in the game? Peyton Manning. Who's the greatest baseball player? Albert Pujols. Who's the greatest basketball player? Kobe Bryant. What about hockey? Alexander "The Great."
Do you notice anything? Professional sports has opened up its boarders like no other time in history. You can almost officially call it the World Series because anyone in the world can play MLB. It's more than the National Football League now because anyone who's good enough can play.
If you look throughout history, there are times when many were not allowed to play in these leagues. For that, I have a difficult time considering a player among the greatest. I use to hit wiffle balls farther than anyone in my neighborhood. I mean, the distance between me and the guy who was second best was ridiculous. Am I the greatest wiffle ball player of all-time? I probably am, but that's beside the point. I cannot REALLY claim that if I'm not playing against the best outside of my neigborhood.
How can you consider a player the best if others arent' allowed to play against him to challenge that? Not only have other Americans been allowed to challenge those claims, but now Ichiro can throw his name into the hat of the greatest lead-off hitters of all-time.
You could argue that this is the greatest sport's era of all-time. The level of competition is greater than ever before. So, now can we really consider the athletes today the greatest? Do we discount athletes who were playing against limited competition? The debate continues.
Rob Long
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The Maturation Of A Head Coach
 John Harbaugh just completed his second season as a Head Coach in the NFL. To be honest, the first two seasons have been pretty successful, by the standards that have been set by previous coaches.
Going into his first season, he, in my opinion, was given some coaches to work with. Rex Ryan, who had been with the organization for years, stayed around after not getting other opportunities. Cam Cameron was fired as the Miami Dolphins Head Coach and was a no-brainer to be the offensive coordinator. After that, some other coaches were retained, and some brought in, but you sort of had the impression that whenever Harbaugh could make changes, he would make them quickly based on some on the job experience.
Rex Ryan leaves at the conclusion of the 2008 season, and Harbaugh promoted Greg Mattison, who he had already hired as a positions coach. This was 100% a Harbaugh hire.
Then, after already announcing that he would not resign with the New England Patriots, Dean Pees leaves as a defensive coordinator and signs with the Raven as a linebackers coach, a position that was previously held by Vic Fangio, a Brian Billick holdover.
What you're seeing with the coaches, you will begin to see with the player soon, and very soon. A lot of the players that Harbaugh has been winning with have been players that were already here. That may sound as if he could not win without them, but I believe he did a great job winning, sometimes, inspite of them. There have been times when "Harbs" had to really grind it out and make due with what he had in some positions.
As salaries expire, and cuts are allowed to be make because of cap reasons, you will see some of the players in who are Harbaugh type players. That's when the identity of this team will change. John Harbaugh is a Steve Bisciotti hire and a Bisciotti guy. That means the identity of the organization will change as well.
No need to fret, this will continue to be a world-class organization. What it may mean is a lot of what you saw in the first four to five weeks of the 2009 season could be what you see in the future. This is the maturation of a Head Coach.
Rob Long
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Perception Is Reality
 The NBA is perceived to be a league of thugs. Whether this is all together true or not, we still remember the Association's employees going into the stands to attack its customers. The first employe who went into the stands was laying on a scorer's table, protesting a call by an official.
This is the same league that had to issue a dress code so that it's employees could look presentable to the general public while at press conferences and other league sanctioned events that promoted itself.
The NBA's uniforms allow its athletes to expose more of their body parts than any other professional sports league. What people see are bodies covered with tatoos. While that's exceptable in some cultures, many cannot identify with that. It's probably safe to say that most of America isn't "tatted up."
A group called the All-American Basketball Alliance has proposed an all-white basketball league. The group says the NBA doesn't play the game the way it's suppose to be played. If the league feels putting all white players together will change that, they are saying that black players aren't fundamentally sound.
While these guys have gone way overboard, I can personally say that the NBA feeds to the stereotype many have when it comes to coaching this generation's black athletes, namely basketball players.
However, to paint the picture with one broad stroke would be unfair. Kobe Bryant, LeBron James and others are among some of the most talented and most fundamentally sound players in the world. But they are considered the exceptions and the the rule.
More than the style of play, off the court actions contribute to the perception of the thugs in the NBA. Recently, two team mates on the Washington Wizards were charged because they brought guns into their workplace and threatened to use them on one another. Where else does that happen in the world of professional sports?
David Stern has done a lot to help clean up the image of his Association, but he cannot do it alone. It seems you hear player in the National Football League talk about the care they have for their league a lot more than the NBA. It seems they are not only concerned with the current state of the NFL, but also the future of the NFL. I don't think I get that from NBA players. I don't even know if they care about the current league that they play in, let alone the future.
Is it because football is the ultimate team sport? Does playing a sport that requires more team work make you think differently? It cannot solely be a cultural thing because many of these players are from the same culture. Whatever the case may be, the NBA has taken itself out of the running of becoming a league that most of America can warm up to. In fact, I would say that the NBA is the only professional sports league that is number two to the college version of its sport.
Rob Long
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Rob Long NFL Draft Board
Lots of NFL teams need linebackers in this year's Draft. Here are some of the best linebackers in the NFL Draft for 2010:
Outside Linebacker
 Brandon Graham Sr. 6'2" 268 Michigan
Ricky Sapp Sr. 6'4" 240 Clemson
Navorro Bowman Jr. 6'1" 231 Penn State
Sergio Kindle Sr. 6'4" 239 Texas
Jerry Hughes Sr. 6'2" 225 TCU
Middle Linebacker
 Rolando McClain Jr. 6'4" 255 Alabama
Brandon Spikes Sr. 6'3" 258 Florida
Sean Lee Sr. 6'2" 236 Penn State
Michah Johnson Sr. 6'2" 255 Kentucky
Daryly Sharpton Sr. 5'11" 225 Miami (Fla)
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The Univ. Of Maryland Won't Play Morgan State?
 There's nothing like the excitement that comes with college basketball, unless of course, it's local college basketball. On Monday night, Morgan State University hosted the University of Maryland Eastern Shore at Hill Field House in a Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference show-down.
Coach Todd Bozeman's Bears came into the game sporting a 13-7 (5-0) record while the Hawks were 5-13 (3-2). The Bears are coming off of a dramatic 72-62 win over the Delaware State Hornets on Saturday.
The Bears are led by senior Reggie Holmes (St. Frances H.S. Baltimore) and sophomore Kevin Thompson (Walbrook H.S. Baltimore). Morgan has not lost to UMES since 2006.
Slow start after the first official time-out. The Bears led early by their leaders as Holmes and Thompson scored their first six points. The team picked up a couple of offensive fouls to make the game closer than the score actually indicates.
Bears 8, Hawks 2 With 15:51 Left In The First Half
Rob Long
Things began to get ugly early, including a missed dunk by Reggie Holmes. That didn't stop the Bears from taking a 16-2 lead at the 12:51 mark. Holmes looks to be determined to no let this one get close. Morgan's MEAC games have been relatively competitive, with the exception of a 90-58 blow-out at Howard University.
Physical dominance seems to be what Coach Bozeman wants to emphasize tonight. Look for the Bears to go to the post during Thompson's next time on the floor. Senior guard Troy Smith has seven points already. His season high is 16 against Long Island on December 30th.
Bears 18, Hawks 5 With 11:52 Left In The 1st Half.
Rob Long
At time-out at the 7:22 mark has Morgan State with a 26-11 lead over UMES. Reggie Holmes is on a roll. He pulled up for a jumper just inside of the three-point line during a fast break. Coach Bozeman didn't flinch. He had plenty of confidence in his star guard.
The Bears' defense has been excellent so far, allowing the Hawks to only shoot 20% from the field and forcing five turnovers. Holmes now leads all scorers with eight points while Smith has four rebounds.
Bears 26, Hawks 11 With 7:22 Left In The 1st Half.
Rob Long
The Bears are executing on everything they run at this point, including an up fake by Holmes to get a Hawks defender off of his feet. Once the UMES player went airborn, Holmes leaned into him for the "and 1." It's something that we've seen from Reggie for years. Reggie Miller, that is...
Troy Smith continues to roll, now that his duties with the Baltimore Ravens are done for the season. No, just kidding. Smith has 13-points and Holmes has 11. Holmes, now leads the team in rebounding with five. Keven Thompson, who has two fouls, has been quiet so far.
Bears 35, Hawks 16 With 3:30 Left In The 1st Half.
Rob Long
Reggie Holmes showed he was human after all. He missed a free throw with less than a minute left in the half. The Bears have not taken the Hawks lightly as they cruised to an ugly lead.
Smith has 15-points and four rebounds. Holmes has 14-points and seven boards.
The Bears defense forced 10-turnovers and 25% shooting in the half. The Bears only committed three turnovers and had seven assist.
Bears 45, Hawks 22 At Halftime
Rob Long
With less than 3:00 left before the end of halftime, Coach Frankie Allen hasn't brought his team out on the floor yet. I've been here before. It's difficult to coach your team out of this one, but that doesn't stop you from trying. Nothing's going right, and it's more because the other team is just better. Unless Morgan goes extremely cold, there's nothing UMES can do about this one.
Rob Long
The Hawks called timeout with 18:10 left in the game trailing 52-24. Folks, the Hawks come into this game as one of the "middle of the pack" teams in this conference, which means there's a large gap between Morgan and the rest of the conference.
Bears 52, Hawks 24 With 18:10 Left In The Game
Rob Long
The Bears have gotten a little sloppy with alley oops and no look passes, but they still have a very comfortable lead. Coach Bozeman doesn't look happy about the lack-luster play over the first four-plus minutes of the half.
Bears 54, Hawks 26 With 15:58 Left In The Game
Rob Long
Reggie Holmes hit a three-pointer with his heels, seemingly, on the time line. Coach Bozeman did a great job at holding back a smile. He just looked in the other direction. Holmes has 25-points on the night to go along with his six rebounds.
The Hawks aren't quitting as Roland Dunston has nailed three straight open jumpers. That hasn't been nearly enough though. The Bears are shooting 48% from the field and denying the Hawks inside.
Bears 72, Hawks 36 With 11:38 Left In The Game.
Rob Long
R.J. Tucker, a seven-foot junior came into the game for UMES. He's an Anne Arundel Community College and is certainly a project. He looks like he's in pain when he runs down the court, but with some coaching...
Morgan has been very careless with the basketball lately, and the coaching staff will remind them of that tomorrow.
Bear 79, Hawks 42 With 7:34 Left In The Game.
Rob Long
The crowd is getting restless. With 5:48 left in the game, the Bears are 16-points away from the century mark. Come on, what else are they going to cheer for?
Rob Long
Adam Braswell ends a streak of 16 consecutive "DNP's" for Morgan. The Bears are up by 36 and Bozeman is feeling benevolent.
Bears 87, Hawks 51 With 3:45 Left In The Game
Rob Long
It's pretty clear that the Bears are going to win their eighth-straight home game. The Bears looked good in nearly every aspect against a pretty decent MEAC foe. Morgan beat UMES by 35-points last year at the W.P. Hytche Athletic Center in Princess Anne, Md.
It's pretty impressive to see what Coach Bozeman and his staff has done with this program in just his fourth season on the job. They have clearly become the most dominant team in their conference and with this 93-54 win, they are now 6-0 in the MEAC.
Final Score, Bears 87, Hawks 54
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Great Match-Up
It's all set now. The Indianapolis Colts will take on the New Orleans Saints in the Super Bowl. This is the Colts second appearence in four-years but the first time the Saints have made it this far. It's also the battle of the top-two seeds in their respective conferences.
Earlier this season, the Colts were badly criticized for not going for a 16-0 regular season. Coach Jim Caldwell envisioned his team needing some rest down the stretch. Whatever the case, Caldwell was obviously right because his team is now in the "Big Dance."
The New Orleans Saints looked very normal going in the final weeks of the regular season, and that led some, including me, to believe they had lost "something." Whatever that something was, they got it back as they're offense rolled and the defense made critical plays when needed.
Peyton Manning versus Drew Brees is an outstanding match-up as well. These are two quarterbacks that are perfectly capable of taking over a football game. These are two quarterbacks who can beat any defense in the NFL, including the one's they're facing in Miami.
It's going to be a lot of hype over Manning facing his dad's former team, and the city of New Orleans recovering from Hurricane Katrina, but hype aside, this is going to be a great match-up.
Rob Long
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Rob Long NFL Draft Board
Here we are, on the defensive side of the football. We will begin with the defensive linemen. These are the guys who allow the linebackers to run around and make tackles and the defensive backs to cover speedy receivers. Ndamukong Suh is the best football player in this draft, but the rest of the guys at these positions are difficult to rank. Defenses ask players to do different things and that allows certain players to show off their talent more than others. Nonetheless, here is my ranking for the defensive line: Defensive End
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