MLB
Spring training has begun . wake me up when the real
season starts. Nothing bores me more than hearing that pitchers
and catchers have reported or that a split-squad Yankees team
has defeated the University of Michigan’s junior varsity softball
team. I realize it’s a long season, and teams want to make sure
everyone is in shape and the right players are in the right places,
but come on. The NFL plays what, four preseason games, and
people complain even that is too much. Two months worth of
preseason just seem like overkill. The thing that makes it worse
is the team who performs the best in spring ball undoubtedly
will be out of the playoff race by the end of May, and the team
that performs the worst will be in the World Series. So at the
end of the day, what’s the point?
COLLEGE BASKETBALL
It appears that Kansas State freshman Michael Beasley and
North Carolina junior Tyler Hansbrough are the only players
up for debate for the many national player-of-the-year awards
that will be handed out at season’s end. Here’s my take: Michael
Beasley is a great player. He obviously is ready for the NBA.
Every time he sets foot on the court, you can bet he is going to
put up a double-double. But here’s the thing, he doesn’t make
his team any better. Don’t get me wrong – the Wildcats are a
good team. They are 18-10 and 8-6 in a good Big 12 conference.
But guess what? Kansas State finished 23-12 without Beasley
last season.
On the other hand, Hansbrough is averaging a double-double
for one of the top teams in the nation. Although the Tar Heels
have struggled with injuries throughout the ACC season, they
have continued to win games. Why? Because no matter how
bad everyone else plays, Hansbrough can be counted on to put
up big numbers and will his team to victory.
That’s the difference between Beasley and Hansbrough. Beasley
puts up numbers, but Hansbrough scores, rebounds and wins
ball games. If you are looking for a player of the year – which
amounts to a most valuable player – doesn’t Hansbrough make
the most sense?